Xin chào!

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s dynamic capital!

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Hanoi, with its blend of ancient traditions and modernity, offers a fascinating introduction to Vietnam.

Enjoy your evening at leisure, whether you choose to relax at your hotel or venture out to experience the city’s energetic nightlife.

Meal: In-flight meals.
Accommodation: Luxe Paradise Premium Hotel 4* or similar

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, prepare for your journey to Sapa. You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the scenic mountain town of Sapa in Lao Cai Province.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax in preparation for an exciting day of exploration ahead. 

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel de Sapa 4 * or similar

Embark on a cultural adventure after breakfast as you explore the picturesque Sapa valley. Your hike takes you through lush rice paddy terraces with breathtaking views of the mountains. You’ll visit Y Linh Ho, a Black H’mong village, where you can immerse yourself in the unique traditions and daily life of the local people.

Following a short break, continue walking to Muong Hoa Valley, passing through the villages of Lao Chai (Black H’mong) and Ta Van (Zay minority). Discover the natural beauty of the region while engaging with local tribes.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel de Sapa 4 * or similar

Experience more of Sapa’s rich culture with a soft trek to Ta Phin Village. This walk through the serene countryside will offer insights into the daily lives of the Red Dao and Black H’mong communities. Afterward, return to your hotel to prepare for your transfer back to Hanoi.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, check in to your hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore the city at your leisure.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel de Sapa 4 * or similar

Today, embark on a scenic journey to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its otherworldly beauty.

Travel by coach through the lush, green landscapes of the Red River Delta, passing through charming rural villages and fertile farmland. Upon reaching Ha Long Bay, board a traditional junk boat to start your cruise among the bay’s stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.

The bay’s dramatic scenery includes thousands of limestone islands and hidden grottoes, sculpted over millennia by natural elements. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of these magnificent caves and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. T

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Oriental Sails or similar

Begin your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the boat’s top deck, or simply relax with a hot cup of coffee as you watch the sunrise over Ha Long Bay’s dramatic landscape.

After breakfast, continue your exploration of the bay’s picturesque islands, each offering unique views and hidden wonders. As you cruise back to the mainland, take full advantage of the boat’s sundeck to admire the bay’s stunning rock formations.

Upon arrival at Ha Long jetty, you will be transferred back to Hanoi.

Enjoy a relaxing evening in the city or opt for an additional tour to experience Hanoi’s street food scene, sampling local delicacies like stuffed pancakes, banh mi, and egg coffee.

Meal: Brunch
Accommodation: Luxe Paradise Premium Hotel 4* or similar

After breakfast, set out for a half-day city tour of Hanoi’s most significant landmarks. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can view the imposing monument dedicated to Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. Continue to the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Explore the historic Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam.

Following your city tour, enjoy a local dinner and time to freshen up before transfering to the train station for the overnight journey to Hue, the former imperial capital.

Settle into your sleeper cabin and prepare for a night of travel as you head south to Hue.

Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Overnight soft sleeper train.

note:
Sleeper trains usually feature four berth compartments with padded bench seats that transform into sleeping bunks for overnight travel.

Arrive in Hue early in the morning and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Once you’ve settled in, enjoy a day at your leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Hue, known for its historical significance and well-preserved architecture, offers a range of attractions from ancient citadels to bustling markets.

Whether you choose to visit local cafes, stroll along the Perfume River, or simply relax, the day is yours to enjoy. Hue’s serene ambiance and rich history make it a perfect place to unwind after your train journey.

Meal: on train
Accommodation: Romance Hue Hotel 4* or similar

Today, delve into Hue’s historical treasures with a comprehensive city tour. Begin at the Imperial Citadel, the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, where you’ll explore notable sites such as the Flag Tower, Noon Gate, and the Forbidden Purple City. This ancient citadel was the epicenter of Vietnamese imperial power from 1802 to 1945.

Next, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the Perfume River, taking in the scenic beauty and visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Hue. After a day of exploration, return to your hotel and spend your evening at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a quiet dinner or exploring more of Hue’s local culture.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Romance Hue Hotel 4* or similar

Bid farewell to Hue as you journey to Hoi An via the breathtaking Hai Van Pass. This scenic route offers spectacular views of the central coastline, with its lush green hills and sparkling waters.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, embark on a walking tour of atmospheric Hoi An today, visiting some of this historic cities popular highlights.

The Old Town of Hoi An is a labyrinth of well-preserved buildings adorned with intricate wooden carvings and colorful silk lanterns. Its iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 16th century, symbolizes the town’s historical connections and remains a popular landmark. Next up, visit the Chinese Temple, also known as the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, a cultural gem that reflects the town’s historical ties with China.

Finish your tour at the Phung Hung Old House, a well-preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese merchant’s residence, offering insight into the lifestyle and architecture of Hoi An’s prosperous past.

This afternoon, you’re free to explore more of Hoi An by yourself  or join an optional tour.

Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hoi An Garden Palace 4* or similar

Enjoy a free day to explore Hoi An at your own pace. This charming town, known for its well-preserved ancient buildings and vibrant street life, offers a plethora of activities.

You may choose to relax at one of the many riverside cafes, wander through the town’s historic streets, or visit local shops.

For those interested in additional adventures, consider joining one of the optional tours. Explore the Golden Bridge on Ba Na Hills, with its stunning architecture and panoramic views, or attend the Hoi An Memories Show, a grand outdoor performance depicting the town’s rich history and culture.

Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hoi An Garden Palace 4* or similar

Another day to discover the delights of Hoi An or take part in an optional tour.

If you choose to explore further, you might visit the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Hindu temples.

Alternatively, join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine from a professional chef. Discover how to prepare traditional dishes and enjoy a meal crafted by your own hands.

For a cultural immersion, you can also visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village and experience local craftsmanship while cruising down the Thu Bon River. The choice is yours as you enjoy another day in this enchanting town.

Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hoi An Garden Palace 4* or similar

Depart from Hoi An and fly to Ho Chi Minh or Saigon to the locals, Vietnam’s bustling metropolis.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for check-in. 

After settling in, spend the rest of the day exploring Saigon. Known for its vibrant energy and historical landmarks, Saigon offers a range of experiences.

Take a stroll through the lively streets, or opt for an evening adventure with an optional Vespa tour, where you can enjoy local food and nightlife while cruising on a vintage scooter. Experience the city’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Athena Saigon Hotel  4* or similar

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of underground passages used during the Vietnam War. Explore these historical tunnels to gain insight into the life and strategies of the guerrilla fighters who used them.

Following the tour, return to Ho Chi Minh and spend the rest of the day at your leisure. You may wish to visit local markets, enjoy some shopping, or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Athena Saigon Hotel  4* or similar

Your final full day in Ho Chi Minh is at your disposal. You can take this opportunity to further explore the city or join an optional tour.

Maybe enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River, where you can dine on delicious Vietnamese cuisine while taking in the city’s illuminated skyline and traditional performances. 

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Athena Saigon Hotel  4* or similar

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel, before departing for Cai Be. The first stop will be at the Cai Be Cao Dai Oratories. The temple is a key symbol of the local religious and cultural blend, representing the Cao Dai faith. Witness how spirituality is woven into everyday life.

Next, explore the famous floating markets of the Mekong Delta. Our first stop is at An Cu commune to experience the largest rice trading market in the southwest region. Chat with local vendors to understand their daily lives, and witness firsthand the bustling commerce that drives this unique area.

After the floating market, continue  to the Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village. Stroll through age-old houses, marvel at traditional Vietnamese architecture, and absorb the peaceful, timeless atmosphere of the village.

Next, sail to Tan Phong Isle, to visit the orchard of Ms. Hang. Taste fresh tropical fruit while listening to traditional Vietnamese folk music. Then, take a relaxing ride on a small rowing boat through the peaceful canals, surrounded by lush greenery.

Arrive at the Mekong Ecolodge, and enjoy a hands-on cooking experience. Learn to prepare local Vietnamese dishes with fresh ingredients and savor your meal in a tranquil riverside setting. 

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mekong Ecolodge or similar

After a traditional breakfast, hop on a bike to explore Tan Phong Island. The first stop is Ms. Ba’s house, where you’ll learn the traditional method of making rice paper, a key ingredient in Vietnam’s famous spring rolls. Continue your ride to Ms. 6’s house, where you’ll discover how to knit banana hammocks using dried banana leaves—a fascinating local craft.

Next, visit Ms. Hieu’s home to learn about the intricate process of making bamboo nail files, showcasing the resourcefulness of using natural materials. Then, cycle to Ms. Thao’s house, where you’ll have the chance to try your hand at knitting water hyacinth and even create your own souvenir with her guidance.

After a morning filled with cultural immersion, return to the Mekong Ecolodge for a relaxing lunch and some downtime.

In the afternoon, join in a traditional ditch-fishing activity and experience the rustic charm of the Mekong lifestyle. You’ll also gather fresh vegetables from the garden for your evening meal.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mekong Ecolodge or similar

Enjoy breakfast at the lodge this morning before Ms Tam teaches the secrets of local jackfruit cake, a specialiy of the region.

Check out and transfer to the local ferry, travelling along the Tien River back to the pier before joining your transfer to Ho Chi Minh and the airport for your departure flight, concluding your unforgettable journey through Vietnam.

Meal: Breakfast

Arrive home today. We hope you enjoyed your holiday with AVG Travels.