Vietnam Authentic Discovery 12 Days: Hanoi, Sapa, Lan Ha Bay & Imperial Hue

Route: Hanoi – Lao Cai (Overnight Train) | Accommodation: SP3 Deluxe Sleeper Train (4 berths/cabin)

Today, we dive into the layers of Vietnamese history and intellect. At 9:00 AM, we begin at the revered Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam’s first national university, built in the 11th century. Walk through its peaceful gardens, admire the iconic Khue Van Cac pavilion, and reflect on the World Heritage stone steles engraved with the names of academic achievers—a true monument to Vietnamese scholarly ambition.

Our cultural journey continues at the Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays), which offers a deep and colorful insight into the lives, costumes, and traditional houses of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Allow two hours to fully absorb this fascinating display of diversity.

The afternoon takes us to the elegant French Quarter, a "little Paris" filled with tree-lined boulevards and grand governmental buildings. We enjoy a leisurely stroll past the Presidential Palace and the humble Ho Chi Minh’s House on Stilts, gaining intimate insight into the beloved leader's life, concluding at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda.

As evening descends, prepare for a quintessential Vietnamese experience: the Water Puppet Show. Watch the enchanting, centuries-old art form where puppets dance on water, illustrating Vietnamese folklore and daily life to traditional music. After dinner (at your leisure), we transfer to the Hanoi Train Station for your overnight traditional train journey to Lao Cai, the gateway to the mountains.

Included: English speaking guide, Breakfast (B), Private Transportation, Entrance fees, Water puppet show, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Overnight Train Ticket (Deluxe Cabin).

Route: Lao Cai – Sapa (35km - 1h) | Accommodation: Sapa Elegance Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Wake up in Lao Cai! Our guide and car will meet you at the station for a breathtaking one-hour uphill drive to Sapa. Enjoy your first views of the emerald rice terraces and the vibrant Red Dao and H'mong people along the road. After a hearty local breakfast, we are ready to trek!

Today is the ultimate Sapa trekking adventure. We begin at Y Linh Ho village, descending into the valley where friendly H’mong ladies and children reside. Feel the incredible harmony with nature as you cross the cable-bridge. You have options: take the invigorating uphill trek along the less-traveled buffalo paths for breathtaking, exclusive views, or opt for a leisurely stroll along the scenic Muong Hoa River.

The trail leads us to Lao Chai village. Here, you'll have an exclusive opportunity to meet the last remaining master craftswoman in the community, dedicated to using traditional beeswax techniques to decorate the Hmong’s iconic indigo clothing. This deep cultural immersion is priceless. We conclude our trek at Ta Van village, the charming home of the Dzay people, nestled perfectly against the rice terraces and Hoang Lien Son Mountain range. Take a leisurely final walk and interact with villagers before heading back to Sapa town for a well-deserved rest.

Included: English speaking guide, Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Private Transportation, Entrance fees, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Sapa – Hanoi (320km - 6h) | Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Savor your final morning in the mountains with an enriching 3-hour cultural trek from Ma Tra hamlet to the beautiful Ta Phin village. This journey takes you through superb terrace valleys where you’ll interact with the Black Hmong and the distinctive Red Dao ethnic groups. Having settled here since the 11th century, these communities have preserved their ancestral way of life, language, and unique traditions, such as the famous Red Dao herbal baths.

We'll stop to visit a Hmong family and a local school in Ma Tra, providing a powerful look at mountain life far from the modern world. Your walk concludes in Ta Phin, where you can chat with the local people and learn more about their captivating culture.

At 2:30 PM, our comfortable shuttle bus will pick you up, marking the beginning of our scenic return journey to Hanoi via the new, fast highway. Enjoy the transformation of the landscape as the mountains give way to the lowlands of the Red River Delta. We anticipate arriving back at your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel between 8:00 and 9:00 PM.

Included: Shuttle bus (Sapa - Hanoi), English speaking guide, Breakfast (B), Entrance fees, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Hanoi – Hai Phong – Lan Ha Bay (140km - 2.5h) | Accommodation: Peony Cruise 2D1N (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)

Prepare for an absolute highlight! Our 9:00 AM shuttle bus whisks you away from the Old Quarter, cruising comfortably across the Red River Delta to Hai Phong. This journey takes you to the lesser-crowded but equally magnificent Lan Ha Bay.

Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Port around noon, you will be warmly welcomed aboard the luxurious Peony Cruises. After a refreshing welcome drink and a concise itinerary briefing, you’ll be treated to a special gourmet lunch as we set sail into the majestic karst landscape.

The afternoon is dedicated to adventure in the pristine Tra Bau area. This is the perfect time for kayaking—paddle through hidden lagoons, marveling at the sheer scale of the limestone islands rising from the emerald green waters. Feeling the sun? Take a refreshing dip or relax in the Jacuzzi pool on board.

As sunset approaches (5:30 PM), head to the top deck for a hands-on Cooking Demonstration, where you'll learn to prepare famous Vietnamese spring rolls. Sip on a complimentary drink during Happy Hour and capture the magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin—a truly romantic and unforgettable scene. The evening concludes with an intimate and delicious dinner served by our skilled chef, followed by optional squid fishing or drinks at the Sky Bar.

Included: Shuttle bus (Hanoi - Tuan Chau), English speaking guide (on board), Meals (B, L, D), Entrance fees, Kayaking, Cooking demonstration, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Overnight Luxury Cruise Accommodation.

Route: Hai Phong – Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi (140km - 2.5h) | Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Start your day with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sun deck at 6:00 AM as the sun rises over the bay’s karsts. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while the ship cruises back towards the jetty.

At 7:30 AM, we embark on a journey to Cat Ba World Biosphere Reserve. We visit the magnificent Trung Trang Cave, one of Cat Ba Island's most impressive geological wonders. Walk through the cave's chamber, admiring the thousands of oddly shaped stalactites—an amazing geological spectacle.

After returning to the cruise, you'll check out of your cabin. A delicious early lunch is served before we disembark at Tuan Chau Port around 11:00 AM. Our driver will welcome you for the comfortable two-and-a-half-hour transfer back to your Hanoi hotel via the modern highway. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in the Old Quarter in the late afternoon.

Included: English speaking guide (on board), Meals (B, L), Entrance fees, Morning Tai Chi, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Hanoi – Dong Hoi (Flight) – Phong Nha (70km - 2h) | Accommodation: Phong Nha Lake House (Superior Pool View)

Today, we transition swiftly to the geographic and geological heart of Vietnam. Our driver will transfer you from your hotel to Noi Bai Airport for a morning flight to Dong Hoi City, the capital of Quang Binh province.

Upon landing, you are immediately welcomed into the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous as the "Kingdom of Caves." After a local lunch, we embark on a boat trip up the serene Son River to the massive gate of Phong Nha Cave. Prepare to be awe-struck as you glide into the cave’s gigantic system, exploring its underground river and secret corners like Bi Ki Cave and the Celestial Palace.

The afternoon holds a special discovery: Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave). Discovered in 2005, this cave is one of the longest in Asia. After a short forest walk, you'll enter this "terrestrial paradise," walking along wooden pathways through cathedral-like rooms. The grandiose, mystical stalactites and stalagmites are simply extraordinary—a natural masterpiece. We conclude the day by checking into your peaceful hotel in the tranquil town of Phong Nha.

Included: English speaking guide, Meals (B, L), Boat (Phong Nha), Private Transportation, Entrance fees, Flight Ticket (Vietnam Airlines Economy), 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Phong Nha – Quang Tri – Hue (230km - 6h) | Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room)

After breakfast, we begin a powerful journey south to Hue. Today is a journey through modern history, focusing on the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone). Our first stop is the incredible Vinh Moc Tunnel complex. You'll walk through a small section of the 1.7 km network, realizing the sheer resilience and ingenuity of the local villagers who lived underground as a bomb shelter from 1965-1967—a moving testament to human heroism.

The journey continues to the 17th Parallel, the historical border that once divided North and South Vietnam. We visit the iconic Hien Luong Bridge and the Ben Hai River, pivotal symbols of division and reunification. Learning about the unique history of this land is a profound experience.

In the late afternoon, we arrive in the elegant Imperial City of Hue. Check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the ancient capital, perhaps strolling along the Perfume River as the city lights up.

Included: English speaking guide, Breakfast (B), Private Transportation, Entrance fees, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Hue City Tour | Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room)

Today, we delve into the regal history of the Nguyen Dynasty. Our first visit at 8:00 AM is the magnificent Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. This is not just a tomb, but an architectural masterpiece renowned for its perfect harmony with nature—a poetic landscape of lakes, walls, and pavilions.

Next, we enjoy a serene boat trip along the picturesque Perfume River (Huong River) to the quiet Thuy Bieu Village. This peaceful spot is famous for its unique grapefruit trees. Upon arrival, we take bikes for a leisurely ride under the shade of the trees, savoring the fragrant air. You'll visit a traditional garden house built centuries ago and interact with friendly villagers, gaining a rare glimpse into authentic rural life outside the city walls. Lunch is served in the village, completing your cultural immersion.

In the afternoon, we visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s spiritual highlight, instantly recognizable by its majestic octagon tower. Finally, we explore the monumental Hue Citadel itself—the symbol of Vietnam's imperial past. Walk through the vast complex encompassing the Capital City, the Imperial City, and the Forbidden City, admiring the Flag Tower, the South Gate, and the Palace of Supreme Harmony.

Included: English speaking guide, Meals (B, L), Boat (Perfume River), Private Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike rental, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Hue – Hai Van Pass – Hoi An (125km - 3h) | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room)

The morning begins with one of the world's most scenic drives! At 7:30 AM, we depart for Hoi An, traversing the legendary Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass). Stop at the summit to capture breathtaking, sweeping views of the sparkling ocean, the rugged coastline, and Da Nang City below—a truly cinematic moment.

Descending into Da Nang, we make a crucial cultural stop at the Cham Museum, home to the world’s most important collection of Cham culture and sculpture, offering insight into this ancient kingdom. We'll also enjoy the vibrant coastline, stopping by My Khe Beach to admire the giant Goddess of Mercy statue at Linh Ung Pagoda and observe local fishermen before continuing our short drive to Hoi An.

Before checking in, we visit the serene Tra Que Vegetable Village, famous for its aromatic herbs. Take a pleasant walk through the gardens, observe traditional vegetable gardening techniques, and feel the peaceful rhythm of the countryside. We check into your Hoi An hotel in the late afternoon, leaving you free to enjoy the magical atmosphere of the lantern-lit town.

Included: English speaking guide, Meals (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance fees, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Hoi An City Tour | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room)

Today is dedicated to exploring the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfectly preserved South-East Asian trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries. The city is a vibrant, living museum.

Starting at 9:00 AM, our leisurely walking tour takes you through history. We visit the Cam Pho Communal House before reaching the iconic symbol of the city: the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau). Built in the 17th century, its unique style has been preserved for over 400 years.

We continue to admire the architectural beauty of the Quan Thang Ancient House, showcasing the finest craftsmanship of the Kim Bong carpentry village. Then, we explore the impressive Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall, a colorful and ornate gathering place for Chinese traders, dedicated to the sea goddess Thien Hau. The tour concludes with a visit to the lively Hoi An Central Market on the riverside—the best place to witness local life, packed with fresh produce, fish, and incredible sights.

The remainder of your day is free. Stroll through the lantern-strewn streets at dusk, visit a tailor, or simply relax by the river, soaking up the unforgettable charm of Hoi An.

Included: English speaking guide, Breakfast (B), Private Transportation, Entrance fees, 2 bottles of water/pax/day, Accommodation.

Route: Hoi An – Da Nang Airport | Accommodation: Departure

Savor your final Vietnamese breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or a final walk through Hoi An’s charming streets.

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel and ensure a comfortable and timely transfer to Da Nang Airport (DAD) for your flight to your next destination. You leave Vietnam with a camera roll full of spectacular landscapes and a heart full of authentic, profound memories.

Included: English speaking guide, Breakfast (B), Private Transportation, 2 bottles of water/pax/day.