Vietnam Deluxe Journey: 16-Day Heritage & Culture Tour

Experience: Today is a profound exploration, starting with a conquest of history at the Temple of Literature (11th-century National University). Stroll through its tranquil gardens and admire the World Heritage "stone steles" honoring ancient scholars. We then confront a chapter of recent history at the infamous Hoa Lo Prison Museum (the "Hanoi Hilton"), gaining solemn insight into the resilience of the Vietnamese spirit.

The afternoon takes us through the elegant French Quarter—Hanoi’s "little Paris"—with its tree-lined boulevards and colonial architecture. We'll explore the spiritual heart of the city, including Ho Chi Minh’s Complex (from the outside) and the unique One-Pillar Pagoda. The day's thrill culminates at the famous Hanoi Train Street, a one-of-a-kind residential alley where the railway runs mere inches from homes. Settle into a cozy trackside café for a local drink and, if luck is on our side, witness the spectacular sight of a train passing right in front of you—a truly unforgettable urban adventure. We conclude with a sensory stroll through the Old Quarter's 36 Streets and the mesmerizing Water Puppet Show.

• Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel (Grand Deluxe Room) or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Transport, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show.

Experience: Escape the city for a 2.5-hour transfer into the breathtaking landscapes of Ninh Binh, the "Halong Bay on Land." Your first discovery is a journey back in time to the serene Thanh Nguyen Temple (12th century). This hidden gem, tucked away from mass tourism, offers a moment of peaceful reflection dedicated to Zen Master Nguyen Minh Khong.

The main event is an exclusive sampan boat trip through Van Long Nature Reserve, a designated Ramsar Site. As you glide silently amidst the towering limestone mountains, you feel an immediate closeness to nature. Keep your eyes peeled for rare white monkeys and egrets. The day concludes with a wonderful dose of warmth of local communities: a visit to an embroidery village where you participate in an intimate embroidery course guided by local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam, perfecting a delicate traditional craft. You then check into your lavish retreat, the Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh.

• Accommodation: Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh (Deluxe Room) or similar.

• Meals: B, L, D

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Transport, Boat Trip, Entrance Fees, Embroidery Course.

Experience: Embrace an active morning with a personal conquest of the landscape. Choose between a leisurely 10 km or an invigorating 20 km bike ride along the dyke, offering picture-postcard views of lush rice fields, rivers, and mountains. Alternatively, ride as a passenger on a scooter for a breezy exploration. We pause to experience Vietnamese spiritual life at the 11th-century Thung La Temple and enjoy a captivating performance of traditional musical instruments. After a local lunch, we enjoy a comfortable, scenic transfer back to Hanoi, where you return to the opulent comfort of the Peridot Grand.

• Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel (Grand Deluxe Room) or similar.

• Meals: B, L

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Transport, Bike Rental, Thung La Temple Music Performance.

Experience: Today, you embark on one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. A luxurious 2.5-hour transfer brings you to Tuan Chau Port, where you board a speedboat to the majestic Orchid Cruises. Settle into your exquisite Suite Balcony Cabin before a gourmet lunch is served, setting the tone for your serene bay escape into Lan Ha Bay—the more pristine and secluded section of the wonder.

In the afternoon, your ultimate authentic adventure begins as you kayak through the mystical Dark and Bright Cave area, gliding silently beneath limestone archways—a moment of profound closeness to nature. The cruise anchors in the tranquil Tra Bau area, where you join a cooking demonstration and enjoy a Happy Hour cocktail on the sundeck, watching the magnificent sunset. Indulge in a sophisticated Fusion Dinner before trying your hand at night squid fishing under the stars.

• Accommodation: Orchid Classic Cruise (Suite Balcony Cabin).

• Meals: B, L, D

• Included: Luxury Transport, English-speaking Guide (on board), Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Cooking Demonstration.

Experience: Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck as dawn breaks over the emerald waters. After breakfast, transfer to a day boat for an exclusive visit to Viet Hai Village. This is your chance for a genuine cultural immersion: take a captivating bicycle ride through rainforests, rice fields, and dark tunnels to explore an ancient local house built from natural materials. After lunch on the day boat, we seek out the secluded waters and sandy beach of Ba Men Temple for relaxing swimming and kayaking, embracing the closeness to nature away from the crowds. Return to the main cruise for a final romantic dinner and an evening enjoying the quiet majesty of the bay.

• Accommodation: Orchid Classic Cruise (Suite Balcony Cabin).

• Meals: B, L, D

• Included: English-speaking Guide (on board), Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Tai Chi, Swimming, Kayaking.

Experience: Begin with a final peaceful Tai Chi session. After breakfast, embark on a short but dramatic journey into Trung Trang Cave, nestled within Cat Ba National Park. Spend time in geological awe, marveling at the stalactites formed over millions of years. Return to the Orchid Cruise for a delightful brunch as we sail back to Tuan Chau Marina. Upon disembarking, you are met by your private driver for a comfortable transfer back to Hanoi, checking back into the luxurious Peridot Grand for one final night before flying South.

• Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel (Grand Deluxe Room) or similar.

• Meals: B, L

• Included: Private Luxury Transport, English-speaking Guide, Entrance Fees, Tai Chi.

Experience: Your journey south begins with a seamless private transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Hue, Vietnam's Imperial Capital. Upon arrival, you are greeted and transferred directly to the Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel. The afternoon is dedicated to a deep connection to history with an immediate exploration of the Hue Citadel. Step through the gates of this Vauban-inspired fortification and explore the three historical layers: the Capital City, the Imperial City, and the Forbidden City—a true conquest of the past that shaped modern Vietnam.

• Accommodation: Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel (Classic Room) or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Private Transport, Flight, Entrance Fees.

Experience: Begin the day by visiting the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a serene architectural masterpiece where imperial religious works and nature exist in perfect harmony. Next, enjoy a poetic boat trip on the Huong River (Perfume River). Disembark at Thuy Bieu Village, renowned for its "divine grapefruit." Feel the peace as you take a gentle bike ride through the shaded paths, inhaling the fragrant aroma and experiencing the tranquil warmth of local villagers who welcome you into their traditional garden houses. We conclude the day at Thien Mu Pagoda, the spiritual highlight of Hue, known for its majestic tower and stunning view of the Perfume River, offering a perfect sunset moment.

• Accommodation: Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel (Classic Room) or similar.

• Meals: B, L

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Transport, Boat Trip, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental.

Experience: Prepare for one of the most celebrated rail journeys in the world! Your driver transfers you to Hue Train Station for a daylight train journey to Da Nang. This 3-hour route is a visual conquest of the Central Coast, treating you to breathtaking views of the azure Lang Co Bay and the dramatic ascent over the Hai Van Pass (Pass of the Ocean Clouds). Enjoy a special 10-minute break at Lang Co Station to capture stunning photos. Upon arrival in Da Nang, your driver meets you for the short transfer to the elegant Allegro Hoian - A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa. The evening is free to begin exploring the enchanting, lantern-lit atmosphere of Hoi An's Ancient Town.

• Accommodation: Allegro Hoian - A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa (Little Suite Room) or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Included: Private Transport, Train Ticket (Hue to Da Nang), Private Transfer to Hoi An.

Experience: Today is dedicated to experiencing the joy and nostalgia of this UNESCO World Heritage town. Our walking tour begins at the symbol of the city, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge. Continue to the historic Phung Hung House, where you’ll meet a family member from the 8th generation who will personally guide you through the home's preserved heritage—a moment of true cultural immersion. We also explore the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, diving into the town’s golden trading age. Conclude your stroll at the vibrant Hoi An Central Market along the riverside, a sensory explosion of fresh produce, spices, and local life, offering the best glimpse into the town's daily rhythm.

• Accommodation: Allegro Hoian - A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa (Little Suite Room) or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Transport, Entrance Fees.

Experience: A seamless morning transfer takes you from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport for your flight to the dynamic South. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the electric, buzzing heart of Vietnam. You are transferred directly to your exclusive urban oasis: The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel. This unique, stylish hotel is perfectly situated to feel the city's kinetic pulse immediately. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the high-end boutiques and colonial landmarks surrounding your accommodation.

• Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel (Saigon Room) or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Transport, Flight.

Experience: We depart for the most striking and essential historical site of the Vietnam War: the Cu Chi Tunnels. This experience is a profound conquest of the past, allowing you to witness the extraordinary ingenuity and resilient human spirit that sustained the Viet Cong forces across a 250km underground city. You will have the opportunity to crawl through a restored section of the tunnels to truly understand the claustrophobic conditions. For those seeking extra adventure, there is an optional, thrilling experience at the shooting range (paid locally). This day is a powerful reminder of Vietnam’s fighting spirit.

• Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel (Saigon Room) or similar.

• Meals: B, L

• Included: Private English-speaking Guide, Transport, Entrance Fees.

Experience: Today marks the pinnacle of your luxury journey: the transfer to Cai Be to embark on the private Song Xanh Sampan for an overnight river cruise. Leaving the city pulse behind, you transition to the tranquil, green world of the Mekong Delta. Upon boarding, you are treated to exclusive service as you glide along the river, observing the vibrant life along the riverbanks.

Your journey is an intimate cultural immersion, with stops at traditional cottage industries like coconut candy and puffed rice production, and a visit to a beautiful ancient house in Dong Hoa Hiep Village. Lunch is served onboard as you navigate narrow, lively canals. The day concludes with a serene sunset cruise toward the Hau River and a delightful, romantic dinner onboard—an unparalleled moment of ultimate river serenity.

• Accommodation: Song Xanh Cruise - 2D1N (Private Sampan).

• Meals: B, L, D

• Included: Luxury Transport, English-speaking Guide (on board), Entrance Fees, Private Sampan Cruise.

Experience: Wake early (6:00 AM) for the sensory climax of the Mekong: the world-renowned Cai Rang Floating Market. You will enjoy breakfast on board as the Song Xanh cruises directly through the market's vibrant chaos—a true authentic adventure. Witness the symphony of commerce as hundreds of barges overflow with fresh fruits and vegetables from the Delta. After this unforgettable sight, you disembark at the Victoria Can Tho private jetty. Your comfortable private transfer awaits to return you to Ho Chi Minh City, where you settle back into the luxury of The Myst Dong Khoi for a final night of reflection on your epic journey.

• Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel (Saigon Room) or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Included: Private Transport, English-speaking Guide (on board).

Experience: Enjoy your final Vietnamese breakfast. Your private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby and ensure a seamless, comfortable transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your international departure, concluding your extraordinary Vietnam Deluxe Journey.

• Accommodation: None

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Included: Private Transportation.