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Discover North & Central Vietnam by train | Authentic package holiday – 10 Days

10 Days
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This journey takes you through magnificent landscapes and introduces you to the local people, history and cultural values of the region. Start your trip in Hanoi then travel to the heart of the Red River Delta, Ninh Binh. Take a leisurely cruise in Lan Ha Bay then experience a stunning train journey to the coastal heritage cities of Central Vietnam: Hue and Hoi An

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Overview

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Overview

Start/End: Hanoi/Hanoi

Visit: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hai Phong – Lan Ha bay – Hue – Hoi An – My Son – Danang

Duration: 10 Days

Travel style: Authentic, Culture and Heritage

Category: Private tour

Tour schedule: Daily departure

Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Deutsch, Italiano

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Highlights

  • Hanoi's sights and charming life
  • Unique explore the Old Quarter
  • Sampan boat experience
  • Overnight on Bay Cruise
  • Indochina train journey
  • Cultural & Historic excursion
  • Interact with locals
  • Authentic experience

Itinerary

Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter

Landing at the Noi Bai airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy 45-minute driving to the city center (Hanoi Old Quarter) with city's briefing information about the most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine....Arrive in your hotel, check in and have a rest.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Continue your day, escorted by tour guide for a nice walking tour. Start with a small pagoda named Ba Da quietly located in a small alley - only few steps from the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built by French colonialism since the 19th century. Your tour guide also takes you to typical streets of Hanoi such as Lan Ong Street selling traditional medicine, Lo Ren Street where metal items are produced ... Stop to visit the Dong Xuan central market - the largest in Hanoi.
Continue walking to the famous area for night activities and street food - Ta Hien street, where you can see the vibrant streets with a lot of the amazing local foods and drinks. Trying to taste some for an unforgettable experience.

Note: If your flight arrival late or you are jet leg after long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the city tour day.
Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Day 2 :
Hanoi

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town

9:00 AM: Meet your tour guide for a visit to the Temple of Literature, established during the Ly dynasty in the 11th century for honoring Confucius and educating the Royal family. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens to see the iconic Khue Van Cac. Explore the World Heritage "stone steles," which commemorate distinguished students. Continue to the Quoc Tu Giam, regarded as Vietnam's first national university.

Next, head to the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays), where you'll gain valuable insights into Vietnamese culture through exhibits of traditional costumes, tools, musical instruments, and the traditional dwellings of various ethnic groups. It typically takes around two hours to fully experience this fascinating museum.

In the afternoon, explore the French Quarter, known as a “little Paris” in Hanoi, featuring tree-lined boulevards, government offices, and a large square. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum (from the outside) and then enjoy a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens. Here, you’ll see the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house where he lived and worked, and the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, a prominent city landmark. Depending on the number of visitors, exploring this area may take between 1 to 2 hours.

Conclude the day with a unique water puppet show, a traditional performance that originated in the 11th century. These shows use puppets floating on water to depict aspects of Vietnamese daily life, culture, and beliefs, often accompanied by traditional music.

Return to your hotel and end of the day.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Water puppet
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Biking to Thung La temple and then a boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve, embroidering experience

8:00 AM: Set out from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, passing through the scenic countryside of the Red River Delta, known for its lush rice and vegetable fields.
You can choose to cycle 15km (optional) or walk through the surrounding villages. As you traverse the dyke, enjoy breathtaking views of rice fields, a river, and limestone hills. Make stops to capture beautiful photos and interact with the locals. Visit Thung La Temple, which dates back to the 11th century, and meet Mr. Tuong, the guardian of the temple, who will share stories and present a 20-minute drum performance.

Following this, enjoy a sampan boat ride through the serene Van Long Nature Reserve, surrounded by majestic limestone formations. You might spot white monkeys and egrets in their natural habitat. Afterward, explore an embroidery village and take part in an embroidery workshop with Mrs. Lam, a skilled local craftswoman, who will teach you the intricacies of traditional embroidery.

Head back to your Hanoi hotel in the evening.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Van Long
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ninh Binh
Leisure: Thung La temple music
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Cruising from Halong to Lan Ha bay, swimming & kayaking, cooking class

9:00 AM: Pickup from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel for a 2.5-hour drive to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No5B. Enjoy scenic views of villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta along the way. Stop for refreshments and a restroom break before arriving at the harbor around noon, where you’ll be greeted warmly.

12:00 PM: Welcome to Tuan Chau Port, Quang Ninh province, where the Peony Cruises team will assist you in boarding.

12:30 PM: Transfer to Peony Cruises from the wharf via a support vessel, with an itinerary briefing provided during the journey.

1:00 PM: Board the cruise and enjoy a welcome drink and fresh towels. Savor a delicious lunch with a variety of fresh and tempting dishes as we embark on our voyage through Lan Ha Bay, noted for its exceptional beauty.

3:30 PM: Visit the scenic Tra Bau area, known for its untouched natural beauty. Kayak in the emerald waters and explore the limestone islands, or relax in the Jacuzzi pool on Peony Cruises.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Join a cooking class to learn how to make spring rolls, a beloved Vietnamese dish. Alternatively, enjoy the sunset from the top deck of the cruise and take advantage of Happy Hour - BUY ONE GET ONE FREE at the bar.

7:30 PM: Relish a sumptuous dinner crafted by our skilled chef in a romantic setting.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy exotic cocktails at the sky bar (with surcharge), unwind with a spa treatment (optional), or relax under the stars on the top deck. Try your hand at squid fishing on the main deck if you wish.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Squid fishing,Swimming
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Peony Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
5/33B Pham Ngu Lao street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring Trung Trang Cave, visiting Cat Ba National park, Transferring back to Hanoi for a night train to Hue

6:00 AM: Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session and watch the sunrise.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Enjoy breakfast as you cruise back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast timing may vary according to the actual schedule).

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Explore the Cat Ba World Biosphere, starting with a 30-minute transfer from Gia Luan to Trung Trang Cave, known for its stunning stalactites and unique cave ecosystem.

9:30 AM: Return to the main boat, check out of your cabin, and place your luggage outside.
Early Lunch: Have lunch at the restaurant and settle any bar tabs.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Disembark from the Peony Cruises and transfer to Tuan Chau port.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau port.

Meet your driver for a 2.5-hour trip back to Hanoi on the new Highway No5B, passing through the Red River Delta and local villages. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in the Old Quarter.

Evening: A driver will pick you up from your hotel for a short transfer to Hanoi Train Station. Board the overnight train from Hanoi to Hue.

Included:
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Train:SE3 (Hanoi - Hue) / 19:20 - 08:40 - Deluxe( 4 berths / cabin) / 06 tickets

Full day for Hue city discovery, Perfume River boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, the most well-known Thien Mu pagoda and Hue Citadel

Arrive at Hue's train station early in the morning, where our friendly local guide and driver will be waiting to welcome you and transport you to your hotel to drop off your luggage. After settling in, immerse yourself in the enchanting city of Hue.

Begin your adventure with a scenic boat ride along the Huong River (Perfume River), where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the local life along the riverbanks. This is a wonderful way to experience the peaceful and picturesque surroundings of the city.
Upon reaching Tien Non village, hop on a bicycle and explore the neighboring villages of Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh. In Tien Non, you'll interact with villagers as they tend to their fields and vegetable gardens, providing you with a glimpse into their daily lives. Visit a family worship center to experience local traditions.

Next, head to Thanh Tien village, celebrated for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting paper flowers. Meet Mr. Hieu, a skilled artisan who will demonstrate the intricate process of making these beautiful paper blossoms, which are used for New Year celebrations and ancestral offerings.

Continue to Sinh village, renowned for its traditional prints. Here, you’ll meet Mr. Phuoc, who will explain the techniques behind the creation of these historical prints, and you’ll have the chance to purchase unique souvenirs.

Return to Hue city by boat, and in the early evening, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue, established in 1601. This sacred site is known for its impressive octagonal tower and stunning views over the Perfume River.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Hue Citadel, a majestic remnant of Vietnam’s imperial past. Modeled after European fortifications, this historic site is divided into three sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Royal City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Explore its most notable landmarks, including the flag tower, the South Gate, the Supreme Harmony Palace, the Inner Sanctuary, and the residential quarters.

Return to your hotel in the evening, having enjoyed a day rich in cultural exploration and discovery.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Sinh - Tien Non
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Hue
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room)
36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

A short trip to Khai Dinh Tomb before travelling to Hoian, passing by Hai Van pass, Cham sculpture museum. Hoi An half day city

7:30 AM:: Begin your journey at the hotel and set out to explore the majestic Khai Dinh King's tomb, perched on Chau Tru Hill. This tomb, an architectural marvel that took over a decade to complete (1920-1931), is renowned for its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Ascend the 100 steps to reach the royal residence, where you'll be greeted by a stunning array of decorations including intricate porcelain mosaics, a grand ceiling painting, and a nearby museum showcasing royal artifacts. As you descend, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the tomb and its surroundings.

Next, continue your journey to Hoi An, driving through the scenic Mandarin Street and over the dramatic Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass). Pause at the summit for spectacular views of the sea and Da Nang city. Upon arrival in Da Nang, visit the Cham Museum, home to some of the most significant Cham cultural relics in the world.

Stroll along My Khe Beach, where you can admire the imposing "Goodness of Mercy" sculptures at the Linh Ung Pagoda. From there, drive along the coastline to the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An. Capture the charm of local fishermen at the beach before delving into the town's historical treasures.

In Hoi An, explore the well-preserved Old Town, a former bustling Southeast Asian trading port from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Start at Cam Pho Communal House, an architectural gem designed to facilitate trade and cultural exchange between local and Chinese, Japanese merchants. Continue your leisurely exploration to the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau), a 17th-century landmark that once separated Chinese and Japanese quarters and remains remarkably well-preserved.

Next, visit the Quan Thang Old House, a prime example of traditional Hoi An architecture, crafted by skilled artisans from the renowned Kim Bong carpentry village. This house provides an authentic glimpse into the daily life of a Hoi An family.

Finally, explore the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (Fujian Assembly Hall), established in the 17th century as a gathering place for Fujianese immigrants and traders. The hall is also a sacred site dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau, featuring vibrant fountains, ornate gates, and intricately carved dragon motifs.

Conclude your day with a return to your hotel or take some free time to further explore the city's charming streets and lively atmosphere.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Day 8 :
Hoi An

A great day to Kim Bong, Tra Nhieu, Cam Thanh village, boat trip & biking in country side, interact with local people.

Meet at your hotel and embark on a cycling adventure to Hoi An pier. From here, board a boat to cross the serene Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village. As you cruise, breathe in the fresh air and soak in the picturesque landscapes on both sides of the river. Kim Bong is renowned for its traditional woodcarving, a craft brought from northern Vietnam and refined through Chinese and Japanese influences. Visit a local carpenter’s workshop to witness their expertise firsthand, and cycle around the village to experience daily life. You can also pick up some handcrafted wooden souvenirs.

Continue your cycling journey to Tra Nhieu village, following scenic trails that meander through lush rice paddies and bamboo bridges. This leg of the trip immerses you in the rural charm of central Vietnam. Along the way, meet local artisans like Ms. Duoc, who specializes in mat weaving; Mr. Kha, who crafts bamboo sampan baskets; and Mr. Huynh Ri, who runs a shipyard for traditional boat building. The countryside scenery will enchant you with its fields, buffaloes, and hardworking farmers.

From Tra Nhieu, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh village. As you glide past water palm trees and fishing farms, you'll arrive at Cam Thanh and step into a traditional round bamboo sampan boat. Enjoy a leisurely crab-catching experience in the tranquil palm forest—a relaxing highlight after a day of biking.

Afterward, visit the home of local fisherman Mr. Phong. Here, savor a refreshing green tea and enjoy a soothing foot massage with medicinal herbs grown in his family garden. Next, head to Tra Que village to gather fresh vegetables and herbs for a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional dishes like crispy pancakes with meat, shrimp, and bean sprouts, Hoi An spring rolls, Hat Huu, and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves.

Feast on the delicious dishes you’ve helped create, savoring the flavors of Hoi An. Return to your hotel in the early evening, with memories of a day rich in culture, craftsmanship, and culinary delights.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh,Cam Thanh
Entrance fees
Bike: Hoi An
Leisure: Foot massage
Cooking class: Cam Thanh
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Exploring My Son Sanctuary, Champa culture, unique architecture

8:00 AM: Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel by your guide and driver. Set off on a half-day excursion to the sacred My Son, located 40 kilometers from Hoi An. This site was once the heart of the Champa Kingdom, serving as a crucial intellectual and religious hub. It is also believed to be a royal burial site. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son is home to 70 ancient ruins, built from the 7th to the 13th centuries, showcasing intricate stone carvings and architecture.

As you explore the ruins, your guide will provide insights into the rich cultural, historical, and architectural significance of each structure. The tour will also include a traditional Champa dance performance, adding an extra layer of cultural immersion to your visit.

After your exploration of the sanctuary, return to Hoi An, where you can continue to enjoy the city's charm at your leisure.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

From Hoi An - Danang, flying to other destinations

Free and relax at your hotel until getting pick up by private driver for about 45 minutes to Da Nang airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city.

Note: International flights require you to be at the airport 3 hours and domestic is 2 hours before departure time.

Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN182 (DAD - HAN) - (Direct) / 18:25 - 19:55 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets

Cost Includes

  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Peony Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: Van Long, Sinh - Tien Non, Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh, Cam Thanh
  • Private car following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Train: SE3 (Hanoi - Hue)
  • Flight Ticket: VN182 DAD - HAN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 09, Lunch: 06, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An
  • Kayak: Halong
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Thung La temple music, Squid fishing, Swimming, Morning Tai Chi, Foot massage
  • Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration, Cam Thanh
  • Service charges and Taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
What does the package include?

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The package typically includes accommodations, daily breakfast, train tickets, guided tours, entrance fees to attractions, and some transportation between cities.

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What type of train will we be traveling on?

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You will usually travel on comfortable overnight trains or scenic trains, which often include sleeping compartments for longer journeys.

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What should I pack for the trip?

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Pack comfortable clothing for varying climates, trekking shoes for outdoor activities, swimwear for beach time, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

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How can I stay connected during my trip?

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You can buy a local SIM card upon arrival or use international roaming services. Many hotels and cafes also provide free Wi-Fi.

 

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Discover North & Central Vietnam by train | Authentic package holiday – 10 Days
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/ Adult
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