11-Day Vietnam Discovery: Fusion of Culture, Cuisine and Nature

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide and driver for a private transfer to Hanoi. Check in at your hotel and relax after your flight.
This evening, dive into Hanoi’s vibrant food culture on this guided gastronomic journey through the Old Quarter. Begin at Thanh Ha Market, uncovering exotic ingredients and local mealtime traditions. Savor iconic dishes like Banh My, colorful rice cakes, and crunchy salads served streetside. Indulge in Hanoi’s
famous egg coffee at a historic café and, if time permits, witness the art of rice noodle making at a local workshop before relishing a bowl of the city’s best beef noodle soup. This flavorful exploration promises a feast for both the senses and the soul, showcasing the heart of Hanoi’s culinary heritage.

Overnight in Hanoi.

07:00 AM: start your day with a rejuvenating visit to a serene Buddhist temple nestled by the peaceful West Lake. Under the guidance of an experienced yoga and meditation instructor, immerse yourself in an hour of mindful breathing and gentle postures. This tranquil and secluded sanctuary offers the perfect setting to harmonize your mind and body, leaving you refreshed and inspired for the day ahead. Head back to the hotel to savor a delicious breakfast, where you can unwind and recharge in comfort before continuing your day.
1:00 PM: your guide will take you to a hidden Hanoi alley to meet Mr. Liem, a master of traditional water puppetry. Over tea, hear Liem’s captivating stories of his craft and international performances. Enjoy a 30-minute private show of lion dances, buffalo fighting, and more, followed by the chance to try puppeteering yourself or create and paint your own puppet. This unique experience offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s rich cultural tradition.

3:00 PM: continue to visit the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an impressive monument crafted from marble and granite, where the embalmed body of “Uncle Ho” rests in solemn grandeur. Next is the serene Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, a simple wooden structure nestled beside a tranquil lotus pond, offering a peaceful glimpse into the leader’s life and work. A short walk away, discover the stunning One Pillar Pagoda, a lotus-shaped temple rising from a single stone pillar in the water. Inside, admire the statue of the Goddess of Mercy, with her legendary “thousand arms and thousand eyes,” symbolizing compassion and protection.
End your day with a rickshaw cyclo ride through the vibrant Old Quarter, offering a glimpse into contemporary Vietnamese life and history.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Relish breakfast at the hotel.

At around 09.00 AM, meet the talented Chef Duyen for an immersive tour of the local markets. With decades of culinary expertise, Duyen will introduce you to the vibrant neighborhood, where you’ll meet local vendors, discover unique ingredients, and witness the daily cooking and eating traditions that define Hanoi.
Next, head to her home for a private, hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes, mastering flavors and techniques that bring the local cuisine to life. Afterward, savor your creations in a delicious home-cooked meal, wrapping up your morning culinary adventure.
Around 1:00 PM, enjoy a comfortable transfer to Ninh Binh, a picturesque province known for its natural beauty and historical significance. On arrival, visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, where you’ll explore historical temples and landmarks that offer insight into the country’s royal past.
Check into your hotel late afternoon. Enjoy time at leisure then.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

After breakfast at the hotel, set off on a private boat ride through breathtaking karst landscapes, immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region.

After lunch, transfer to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and escort you to the charming town of HoiAn.
Check in to your hotel and unwind with a free evening to explore or relax at your leisure.

Overnight in HoiAn.

This morning is uniquely designed to combine culture and cuisine, offering a truly unforgettable experience in Hoi An. You’ll discover the charm of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as you wander through its ancient streets. Explore iconic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky Old House, while learning about the town’s rich history and culture. In the meantime, along the way, enjoy a curated food tour featuring Hoi An’s most iconic dishes.
The afternoon continues with a lantern-making tour in Hoi An which offers a unique cultural experience, combining traditional craftsmanship with creative fun.
Guided by skilled artisans, participants learn about the history of Hoi An’s iconic lanterns and create their own using vibrant fabrics and bamboo frames. The tour typically includes step-by-step instructions, all materials provided, and the opportunity to take home your handmade lantern as a meaningful souvenir.

Overnight in Hoi An.

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to Da Nang Airport for your flight to vibrant Saigon. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic two-hour drive northwest of Saigon, passing through lush countryside and urban areas, to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. This vast underground network, stretching over 200km, played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War, allowing the Viet Cong to control a large area near Saigon. Explore the tunnels with a former VC veteran who lived there, offering firsthand insight into the hardships of underground life—trap doors, living spaces, storage, and even kitchens. Learn about the resilience and strategies that shaped the war, as your guide translates the veteran’s powerful stories.
After your insightful journey, drive back to Saigon and check in to your hotel. Take time to unwind and recharge, soaking in the comfort and tranquility before your next adventure.
The evening continues with a culinary adventure, sampling Saigon’s best street foods like Banh Mi, Vietnamese pizza, and BBQ pork. Visit vibrant back-alley spots and mingle with locals to experience the city’s food culture. Come with an empty stomach and an adventurous spirit for a night to remember.

Overnight in Saigon.

Discover the charm of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta with a day trip offering a mix of culture, scenery, and hands-on experiences. This tour highlights the rich traditions and daily lives of the locals while providing a glimpse into the unique landscapes of the region. And, the tour will be incomplete without cycling on narrow road along small side canal to visit the local traditional handicrafts.
Begin your journey with a 2-hour drive from Saigon to the Delta, where you’ll explore the Cai Be area, famous for its floating markets and agricultural produce.
Cruise along the river aboard the Mekong Queen, sampling fresh fruits and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Visit local businesses to learn about traditional crafts and the vibrant trading culture of the floating markets.
On Tan Phong Island, cycle through peaceful village paths, meeting locals and visiting families who create traditional products such as water hyacinth crafts, palm leaf roofs, coconut hammocks, and rice paper.
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch of Mekong specialties in a traditional house before returning to Saigon, taking with you unforgettable memories of this picturesque and culturally rich region.

Overnight in Saigon.

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide at 8:30 AM for a tour of Saigon’s highlights. Explore the city’s dynamic blend of history and modernity, from the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office to the lively Ben Thanh Market, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc for your beach escape. Upon arrival, meet your hotel representative and transfer to your hotel, where the rest of the day is free to relax.

Overnight in Phu Quoc.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a blissful day of relaxation at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind by the beach, explore the island, or simply indulge in the tranquility of your surroundings, the day is yours to savor.

Overnight in Phu Quoc.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a blissful day of relaxation at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind by the beach, explore the island, or simply indulge in the tranquility of your surroundings, the day is yours to savor.

Overnight in Phu Quoc.

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight home.