Vietnam Culinary Journey 14 Days: Authentic Food Tour Hanoi to Mekong

Your morning begins with historical tranquility. First, visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest, dating back to the 6th century, offering a peaceful moment beside West Lake. Continue to the magnificent Temple of Literature , Vietnam’s first National University, where you can walk through courtyards of scholarly tradition. The historical immersion deepens at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum (Hanoi Hilton), offering a poignant glimpse into Vietnam's past conflicts.

As the sun begins to soften, the highlight begins! At 4:00 PM, your expert culinary guide will lead you into the bustling streets for a truly authentic Hanoi street food tour.

• Banh Cuon Delight: Start with the delicate artistry of Banh Cuon—silky, steamed rice flour pancakes, gently filled with pork and mushrooms, served with the perfect nuoc cham.

• Bun Cha Masterpiece: Experience the Hanoi signature, Bun Cha . Savor tender, charcoal-grilled pork patties and belly slices swimming in a vibrant, sweet-and-sour broth—the ultimate barbecue-style pleasure served with fresh vermicelli and herbs.

• Banh Mi Fusion: Bite into a crispy, iconic Banh Mi, the Vietnamese sandwich that perfectly fuses French colonial heritage with Vietnamese flavor.

• Pho Perfection: No journey is complete without it. Find the best local spot for a steaming, aromatic bowl of Pho, topped with fresh herbs—a truly defining moment of your tour.

• The Sweet Finish: Conclude with a distinctive local drink: choose between the creamy, decadent Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng), refreshing lemongrass tea, or a cold local beer to toast your first night of culinary conquest.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, D), Transportation, Entrance Fees, 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room or similar).

Today is a celebration of Vietnam’s stunning countryside. After an 8:00 AM transfer through the picturesque Red River Delta, you arrive in Ninh Binh (often called ‘Halong Bay on Land’).

The day’s adventure starts with an invigorating 15km bike ride (optional, walking available) through serene villages and along the river dyke. Stop to capture gorgeous landscapes of rice fields framed by dramatic limestone peaks and enjoy meaningful encounters with local farmers. You will walk to the ancient Thung La Temple, meeting the guardian, Mr. Tuong, for an authentic conversation and a captivating 20-minute drum show—a rare cultural treat.

The main event is a serene sampan boat trip through the Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide silently along the stream, surrounded by towering mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare white-trousered langurs and egrets nesting on the cliffs—a moment of pure nature. Conclude the day with an artistic flair: visit an embroidery village and join a fascinating embroidery course under the guidance of craftswoman Mrs. Lam, practicing this delicate traditional art.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat (Van Long), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike (Ninh Binh), Thung La temple music, 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room or similar).

Get ready for the emerald seas! After a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive, we arrive at Tuan Chau Port. You will be warmly welcomed aboard the luxurious Peony Cruises, your floating sanctuary.

• 1:00 PM – Sail Away: Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and settle in before a special, sumptuous lunch featuring the freshest local catch and delectable appetizers as we set sail toward Lan Ha Bay , a quieter, more pristine neighbor of Halong Bay.

• 3:30 PM – Kayaking Paradise: We drop anchor in the unspoiled Tra Bau area. This is your moment for pure joy: kayaking through the stunning seascape of limestone islands, dipping into the emerald waters for a swim, or simply unwinding in the Jacuzzi pool.

• 5:30 PM – Culinary Sunset: Head to the top deck for a fun, hands-on cooking demonstration where you will learn the secrets to making classic Vietnamese spring rolls. Alternatively, enjoy Happy Hour (Buy One Get One Free) and watch the magnificent sunset paint the Gulf of Tonkin—a photographer's dream!

• 7:30 PM – Romantic Dinner: Indulge in a delightful, skillfully prepared dinner served in an intimate, romantic setting.

• Nighttime Relaxation: The evening is yours to relax at the sky bar, try your luck at squid fishing off the main deck, or simply gaze at the illuminated night sky.

• Included: Shuttle Bus (Hanoi - Tuan Chau), On-board Guide, Meal (B, L, D), Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Swimming, Squid Fishing, Cooking Demonstration, 2x Mineral Water, Accommodation (Peony Cruise - Deluxe Balcony Cabin).

• Cruise: Peony Cruise (https://www.peonycruises.com/)

Begin your day with energy and serenity. Join a relaxing Tai Chi session at 6:00 AM as the sun rises over the bay's dramatic seascape. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we disembark to explore the largest cave on Cat Ba Island.

• 7:30 AM – Geological Wonder: Explore the Trung Trang Cave, an impressive limestone formation within the Cat Ba World Biosphere Reserve. Wander through chambers adorned with thousands of unique stalactites—a journey into geological history.

• Mid-Morning Transition: Return to the cruise ship, check out of your cabin, and enjoy an early lunch before disembarking at Tuan Chau Port.

• Transfer & Flight: Our driver will meet you for the return journey to Hanoi. You will be transferred directly to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival in Da Nang, you are met by your local guide and transferred to your stunning accommodation in Hoi An , the central coast's timeless gem.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Morning Tai Chi, 2x Mineral Water, Flight (VN181 HAN-DAD 16:10 - 17:40 - Vietnam Airlines Economy), Accommodation (Delicacy Hotel & Spa - Deluxe City View Room or similar).

• Hotel: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (https://hoiandelicacyhotel.com/en)

Today, you step back in time. Hoi An Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautifully preserved former trading port that will capture your imagination.

Our relaxed walking tour begins at 9:00 AM, immersing you in a living museum. We visit Cam Pho Communal House, a testament to the town's historical trade and cultural exchange. You will then cross the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau), a unique architectural symbol that connects cultures. Walk through the town, stopping at the remarkably preserved Quan Thang Ancient House, offering a rare glimpse into a merchant family's daily life centuries ago.

Continue to the colorful Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien), a stunning religious site dedicated to the sea goddess Thien Hau, featuring ornate gates and carved dragons.

The tour culminates at the bustling Hoi An Central Market . Situated along the riverside, this is the best place to witness local life in action. Explore stalls overflowing with fresh vegetables, exotic spices, and incredible street food, providing a feast for your eyes and a chance to truly connect with the rhythms of Hoi An life. The rest of the day is free for you to explore or relax by the pool.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Transportation, Entrance Fees, 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room or similar).

Prepare for a hands-on culinary adventure where you become the chef!

• Cycle to Tra Que: Meet at Hai Café and then embark on a picturesque cycle ride to Tra Que Vegetable Village. You'll feel the gentle breeze as you pass rice paddies, eventually arriving at the renowned herb gardens. Here, you'll literally dig in, helping the local farmers work according to traditional methods and picking the fresh coriander and mint you’ll use in your dishes.

• Market Mastery: Next, visit a vibrant local market with your shopping list, learning to select essential Vietnamese ingredients like star anise, cardamom, and banana flowers—a true education in local sourcing.

• Red Bridge Cooking Class: Arrive at the beautiful Red Bridge Restaurant for your comprehensive cooking class. Under the guidance of expert cooks, you will learn to prepare four famous traditional Vietnamese cuisine dishes, including the famed national dish, Pho.

• Taste Your Creation: The ultimate reward is enjoying the delicious dishes you prepared yourself for lunch! Conclude the day with a relaxing half-hour cruise on the Thu Bon River back to the center of Hoi An, absorbing the beautiful riverside scenery.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat (Thu Bon River), Bike (Hoi An), Cooking Class, 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room or similar).

Today, the journey is as magnificent as the destination! We depart Hoi An, traveling along the stunning coastline towards the Imperial city of Hue.

• Coastal Stops: In Da Nang, we pause to explore the Cham Museum, home to the world’s most important collection of Cham culture and sculpture. We'll also stop at the famous My Khe Beach to capture photos of local fishermen and the giant Goodness of Mercy statue at Linh Ung Pagoda.

• Hai Van Pass Thrill: The highlight is the breathtaking drive over the Hai Van Pass . This epic mountain road offers truly unforgettable views of the ocean, the curving coastline, and the sprawling landscape below.

• Imperial Arrival: Arrive in Hue and enjoy a local lunch before delving into history. Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, dating back to 1601, known for its majestic octagon tower and spiritual significance overlooking the Perfume River.

• Hue Citadel Grandeur: Conclude the tour at the Hue Citadel, the awe-inspiring symbol of imperial Vietnam. Explore the three fortified layers—the Capital City (Kinh Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh)—witnessing the flag tower, the South Gate, and the Palace of Supreme Harmony.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance Fees, 2x Mineral Water, Accommodation (Rosaleen Boutique Hotel - Deluxe Double Room or similar).

• Hotel: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (http://rosaleenhotel.com)

Today is dedicated to the artistry and tranquility of Hue's imperial past and vibrant present.

• Minh Mang’s Masterpiece: We begin at the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a stunning architectural masterpiece built in harmonious alignment with nature and religious works. This site is a powerful expression of imperial landscape design.

• Perfume River Boat Trip: Next, take a tranquil boat trip along the Huong River (Perfume River), admiring the picturesque landscapes as we journey to Thuy Bieu Village.

• Village Immersion: Thuy Bieu is famous for its sweet grapefruit trees. Upon arrival, you can bike around the village under the shade of the fragrant trees, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. We’ll visit a traditional garden house and interact with villagers working in the gardens.

• Hue Cooking Class: The day includes an intimate cooking class specializing in selected Hue specialties. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch right in the village, tasting the fruits of the region and your own culinary efforts, before returning to the city.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat (Thuy Bieu - Minh Mang), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike (Thuy Bieu), Cooking Class, 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room or similar).

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Hue. Take time for one last stroll or simply relax before transferring to Phu Bai Airport for your flight to the dynamic South.

• Southern Welcome: Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the buzzing District 1.

• Evening Vespa Thrill: The evening erupts in adventure! At dusk, you'll be escorted by local drivers on vintage Vespas for an incredible, immersive Craft Beer Discovery Tour.

• Taste of Modern Saigon: Explore four fascinatingly different new breweries that are defining Saigon’s rapidly growing craft beer scene, all while expertly navigating the city's lively streets. You will sample carefully selected beers infused with local Vietnamese essences, learning the story, knowledge, and brewing process behind these unique creations.

• Gourmet Pairings: Each stop offers delicious and elaborate food pairings, including gourmet tapas and Vietnamese-inspired bites. This exhilarating night is a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and adventure!

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Transportation, 2x Mineral Water, Flight (VN1373 HUI-SGN 13:40 - 15:20 - Vietnam Airlines Economy), Accommodation (Elios Hotel - Senior Superior Room or similar), Evening Vespa Tour.

• Hotel: Elios Hotel (http://www.elioshotel.vn)

Discover the historical layers and modern pulse of Ho Chi Minh City.

• Independence Palace: We begin at the Independence Palace, a crucial site that marks the end of the Vietnam War. Explore the preserved 1960s-era rooms, the bunker basement, and the grounds where history was made.

• Colonial Grandeur: Enjoy a leisurely walk past the beautiful Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning Saigon Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel—picturesque reflections of the French colonial era.

• Cholon Immersion: We drive to Chinatown (Cholon) to visit the enormous and chaotic Binh Tay Market . This is a vibrant hub for goods, food, and local life, offering an explosion of sights, sounds, and smells.

• Spiritual Retreat: Visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest and most sacred temples, dedicated to Guan Yin.

• Ancient Remedies: Conclude at the FITO Museum of Traditional Medicine, where you can explore ancient medicinal herb recipes, magic potions, and antique tools, offering deep insight into Vietnam’s traditional health practices.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Transportation, Entrance Fees, 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room or similar).

Today is a profound journey into Vietnam's history and unique spirituality.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: Travel to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground city covering over 250km. Dug entirely by hand over twenty years, this network allowed the Viet Cong to sustain their resistance. You will have the unique and moving opportunity to enter parts of the tunnels and witness the sheer resilience required to live and fight underground. Optional: Guests may try real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range (pay on the spot).

• Cao Dai Temple: Continue to one of Vietnam’s most striking religious attractions, the Cao Dai Temple . Caodaism is a fascinating, uniquely Vietnamese religion that blends elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Catholicism. If timed correctly, you can attend the colorful and captivating midday mass.

Enjoy a local lunch before transferring back to the hotel in the afternoon.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance Fees, 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room or similar).

Experience the lush, tranquil heart of Southern Vietnam: the Mekong Delta.

• River Boat Trip: Transfer to Ben Tre, the region famous for coconut candy. From Hung Vuong pier, board a boat for a leisurely trip on the Ben Tre River, immediately immersing you in the rhythm of local daily life.

• Coconut Kingdom: Cruise down small canals to Nhon Thanh Village, where you will taste fresh fruits and learn about the local coconut industry, the area's lifeblood.

• Village Cycle: Take a gentle bike ride (or Tuk Tuk) along small paths, enjoying views of vibrant rice fields, vegetable gardens, and endless coconut ranges. The air is scented with the pleasant perfume of the tropics.

• Authentic Lunch: A delicious lunch featuring local delicacies, including the famous elephant ear fish, is served in the village.

• Canal Exploration: Conclude with a mesmerizing boat ride on a small canal, shaded by the wild palm trees, offering a perfect, peaceful end to your Mekong Delta exploration.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat (Ben Tre), Transportation, Bike (Ben Tre), 2x Mineral Water.

• Hotel: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room or similar).

Enjoy your final breakfast in Vietnam. Depending on your flight schedule, take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you seamlessly to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your onward journey, carrying with you two weeks of unforgettable memories and authentic Vietnamese flavors.

• Included: Meal (B), Transportation, 2x Mineral Water.