Vietnam Highlights: North & Central Heritage 10 Days

Today, we dive into Hanoi’s rich history and cultural landmarks. Our first stop is the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, built in the 11th century. Walk through its beautiful gardens, admire the "stone steles" that honor the country’s most brilliant scholars, and explore Quoc Tu Giam, considered the nation’s first university.

Next, you'll have the option to visit one of the city's top museums, such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays) or the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. After a break for lunch, we’ll explore the elegant French Quarter, with its wide, tree-lined boulevards and grand colonial buildings. We'll see the exterior of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, take a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens, and visit the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House. We'll also see the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi.

Our journey continues to Quan Thanh Temple, one of the city's most important temples, dating back to the 11th century. We’ll then take a scenic walk along West Lake to the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda. The day concludes with a mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, transportation, all entrance fees, Water Puppet Show, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Conifer Grand Hotel (or similar).

Today, we escape the city for a full-day excursion to Ninh Binh, a breathtaking site rich with history and natural wonders. Our journey passes through the picturesque countryside of the Red River Delta.

Our first stop is Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital in the 10th and 11th centuries. We’ll visit the temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh, who played a vital role in Vietnam's independence. Next, we visit the beautiful Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of pagodas nestled into a limestone mountain. Cross a stunning stone bridge and climb over 100 steps to reach the cave pagoda, where you can admire unique clay statues and enjoy incredible countryside views.

After a delicious lunch, we head to Tam Coc, famously known as "Ha Long Bay on land." Here, you'll take a private 90-minute sampan boat cruise along the Ngo Dong River. Pass through three mysterious caves and be mesmerized by a stunning landscape of small communities, lush rice fields, and towering limestone karsts.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, boat trip, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Conifer Grand Hotel (or similar).

Get ready for one of the most breathtaking experiences of your trip! After breakfast, our driver will pick you up for a scenic 3-hour drive to Tuan Chau Marina. The route takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Red River Delta.

Upon arrival, you'll board the cruise ship, enjoy a welcome drink, and receive a short briefing. Settle into your room before a delicious Vietnamese and international lunch as you begin your sailing journey through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the afternoon, you'll have the chance to explore a Pearl Farm and enjoy a relaxing kayaking session. Later, you’ll discover the grandeur of Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most impressive cave in the bay, filled with stunning stalactites. As evening approaches, return to the boat for a captivating Happy Hour and a sumptuous deluxe dinner. The night concludes with activities like squid fishing or simply relaxing under the stars.

• Included: Shuttle bus from Hanoi to Ha Long, English-speaking guide on board, breakfast, lunch, dinner, entrance fees, kayaking, squid fishing, cooking class, 2 bottles of mineral water, overnight on Mila Cruise (or similar).

Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the bay. After breakfast, you'll visit Titov Island, where you can swim in the calm waters or hike to the top for a spectacular panoramic view of the bay.

After checking out, you'll enjoy a delightful brunch as the cruise sails back to the marina. Upon disembarking, our driver will take you back to Hanoi, where you'll be transferred to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) for your flight to Da Nang (DAD).

Upon arrival, our local guide and driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. You'll have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the vibrant coastal city at your leisure.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, brunch, transportation, entrance fees, morning Tai Chi, 2 bottles of mineral water, domestic flight to Da Nang, accommodation at Parosand Da Nang Hotel (or similar).

Today, we explore the incredible sights of Da Nang. We begin at the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills named after the five elements. We’ll explore the mysterious Tang Chon, Huyen Khong, and Am Phu caves, with their hidden pagodas and temples, and hike to a scenic viewpoint for incredible panoramic views. We'll also visit Non Nuoc village at the base of the mountain, famous for its intricate marble sculptures.

Next, we visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture, which houses the world's largest collection of Cham artifacts. This collection offers a deep insight into the Champa Kingdom, which flourished from the 4th to the 13th century.

In the afternoon, we’ll drive across the stunning Thuan Phuoc Bridge to the Son Tra Peninsula. Enjoy fantastic photo opportunities of the Man Thai fishing village and the beautiful coastline. Our final stop is the magnificent Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the tallest statue of the Goddess of Mercy in Vietnam (67 meters high), offering spectacular views of the ocean and city.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Parosand Da Nang Hotel (or similar).

Today is dedicated to the famous Ba Na Hills. After breakfast, our driver will take you to this breathtaking resort, located 1478m above sea level. You’ll take one of the world's most impressive cable car rides, enjoying incredible views of the lush national park below.

Upon arrival, you'll be treated to a full day of exploration. Walk on the world-famous Golden Bridge, a spectacular architectural marvel held up by two giant stone hands. We'll visit pagodas, giant Buddha statues, and beautiful French colonial-style gardens. You'll also have time to enjoy the thrilling rides and games at Fantasy Park, Vietnam's third-largest indoor amusement zone. In the afternoon, we'll take the cable car back down and transfer you to your hotel.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, transportation, all entrance fees, cable car tickets, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Parosand Da Nang Hotel (or similar).

Today, we travel to the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our walking tour will begin at the Cam Pho Communal House, a historic meeting place.

We’ll then walk to Hoi An's iconic symbol, the Japanese Covered Bridge, which was built in the 17th century to connect the Japanese and Chinese communities. We'll also visit the Quan Thang Ancient House, one of the most authentic old homes in Hoi An, with its intricate woodwork from the famous Kim Bong carpentry village. Finally, we’ll explore the Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall, a vibrant and ornate hall built by Chinese merchants from Fujian province.

After a break for lunch, you'll have free time to explore the city at your own pace, shop for souvenirs, and admire the beautiful lantern-lit streets. On the way back to Da Nang, we'll make a short excursion to Tra Que organic vegetable village.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Parosand Da Nang Hotel (or similar).

Today, we take a day trip to the imperial city of Hue. Our journey to Hue is an adventure in itself, as we drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline.

Our first stop in Hue is the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, a unique and magnificent royal tomb that blends traditional Vietnamese architecture with a stunning mix of Western and Oriental styles. Next, we visit the Imperial Citadel, the only remaining symbol of the Nguyen Dynasty. The Citadel is a vast complex with three main parts: Kinh Thanh, Hoang Thanh, and Cam Thanh, where you'll explore key sites like the Flag Tower, the South Gate, and the Palace of Supreme Harmony.

After a delicious lunch, you will have more time to explore the Citadel before we drive back to Da Nang.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Parosand Da Nang Hotel (or similar).

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel. At the scheduled time, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to Da Nang Airport (DAD) for your departure flight.

We hope you leave with incredible memories of your Vietnam adventure!

• Included: Breakfast, transportation, 2 bottles of mineral water.