Vietnam Grand Tour 14 Days: Sapa Trekking, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh & Imperial Hue Heritage

Begin the day by connecting with history at the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu), Vietnam’s first university. Wander among the revered stone steles, feeling the weight of ancient scholarly tradition. You'll then choose your focus—be it the Museum of Ethnology for a cultural deep dive into the mountain tribes you're about to meet, or the Fine Arts Museum for historical beauty. The afternoon takes us to the Ho Chi Minh Complex and the picturesque Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake. We cap off the day with the unique spectacle of the Water Puppet Show, a magical glimpse into Vietnamese folklore.

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) *or similar.

Say goodbye to the plains as we embark on a scenic 6-hour journey to Sapa, leaving the Red River Delta behind for the high mountains. The views from the highway offer your first taste of the dramatic northern landscape. After lunch in town, your trekking adventure begins! We drive to Sin Chai village, home to the Black H'mong people. You'll walk among stunning rice terraces and authentic homes, instantly immersing yourself in their distinct culture and ancestral way of life. This first encounter is an intimate and fascinating prelude to the days ahead.

• Accommodation: Sapa Elegance Hotel (Deluxe Room) *or similar.

This is the day to conquer the legendary valleys! Our trek begins from Y Linh Ho village and descends into the incredible Muong Hoa River valley. You’ll follow buffalo paths and winding trails, rewarded with breathtaking, panoramic views of the world-famous rice terraces . In Lao Chai village, you'll meet a local artisan, perhaps the last in her community, practicing the traditional beeswax craft for indigo fabrics—a moment of true cultural connection. We finish in Ta Van, the charming village of the Dzay people, surrounded by the majestic Hoang Lien Son range.

• Accommodation: Sapa Elegance Hotel (Deluxe Room) *or similar.

We dedicate our final mountain morning to the distinct Red Dao ethnic group. Our 3-hour trek leads us through superb rice terraces from Ma Tra hamlet to Ta Phin village. The Red Dao, known for their elaborate headscarves and deep knowledge of traditional medicine, offer an unforgettable cultural exchange. You'll walk and talk with locals, learning about how they preserve their ancient way of life far from the modern world. After a final local lunch, we transfer back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon, ready for the next phase of our journey.

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) *or similar.

Escape the city for a day trip to the spectacular landscapes of Ninh Binh. We begin at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, visiting the beautifully preserved temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties, reflecting on Vietnam's thousand-year struggle for independence. Next, we find spiritual beauty at Bich Dong Pagoda, a unique cave temple offering incredible countryside views. The highlight is the 90-minute private sampan boat cruise through Tam Coc ("Halong Bay on Land"). Pass through three natural caves, absorbing the absolute serenity of the towering limestone karsts rising from the emerald rice fields.

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) *or similar.

Today, you'll experience pure awe. We transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Marina and board the elegant Mila Cruise. Settle into your cabin before enjoying a gourmet lunch as we sail past iconic karsts. The afternoon is dedicated to adventure: kayaking through hidden lagoons and exploring Sung Sot Cave, the "Grotte des Surprising," the area's largest limestone cavern filled with millennia-old stalactites. Later, you can join a sunset cooking demonstration and enjoy a deluxe dinner onboard, followed by squid fishing under the stars.

• Accommodation: Mila Cruise (Deluxe Cabin).

Start the day with a calming Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the karsts. After breakfast, we ascend Titov Island for a final, unforgettable panoramic view of the bay—the perfect way to say goodbye to this natural wonder. We check out while enjoying a leisurely brunch, then disembark and transfer back to Hanoi. From there, a seamless flight takes us to Da Nang, where our driver whisks you away to the charming Hoi An, the heart of Vietnam's Central Coast.

• Included: Flight: VN181 (HAN - DAD)

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

Step into a beautifully preserved past in Hoi An. This UNESCO trading port exudes romantic charm. Our walking tour unveils its rich history, stopping at the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the majestic Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall. In the afternoon, we engage with local life at Tra Que farming village, famous for its aromatic herbs. You'll learn about traditional cultivation methods and the use of herbs in Vietnamese cuisine, fostering a wonderful closeness to nature before you enjoy a free evening to explore the town's famous lantern-lit streets.

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

Today is a journey of deep historical discovery. We travel to the My Son Sanctuary, the sacred valley and most important intellectual and religious center of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site, you'll leisurely explore the 70 ruined architecture works of bricks and stones built between the 7th and 13th centuries. Your guide will illuminate the cultural and architectural significance of these ruins. We enrich the experience by attending a captivating traditional Champa dancing show before returning to Hoi An.

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

Enjoy a full day of freedom and relaxation. This is your chance to absorb the atmosphere of Hoi An at your own pace. You may choose to cycle through the rice fields, relax on the nearby beaches, shop for custom-made clothes, or join an optional cooking class. Use this day for personal reflection on the journey so far—from the high peaks of Sapa to the tranquil coast.

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

The drive to Hue is an iconic journey in itself! We travel along the coast, crossing the legendary Hai Van Pass ("Ocean Cloud Pass"). Stop at the summit to capture the breathtaking view where the mountains plunge into the turquoise ocean—a moment of true scenic conquest. Before reaching Hue, we stop in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum. In Hue, we explore the spiritual highlight: Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in the city. Finally, we immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring Hue Citadel, exploring the vast complex of the Imperial City and Forbidden City, the symbolic heart of Vietnam’s final dynasty.

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

Today is dedicated to the grandeur of the Nguyen Emperors. We visit the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, an architectural masterpiece renowned for its perfect harmony with nature and imperial design. Next, we enjoy a leisurely boat trip along the scenic Perfume River (Huong River) to Thuy Bieu Village. Here, you’ll cycle under the shade of fragrant grapefruit trees, experiencing the peaceful, authentic atmosphere of a traditional garden house. We conclude with a hands-on cooking class focusing on Hue's famous, delicate imperial specialties, bringing the city's rich culture to your plate.

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

After breakfast, your incredible 14-day journey, spanning from the challenging northern tribes to the elegant central heritage, concludes. Your driver will provide a seamless transfer to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) for your onward flight. You depart with a heart full of memories, having experienced the ultimate contrast and soul of Vietnam.

• Included: Transportation to Airport.