Essential North & Central Vietnam | Authentic package tour – 13 Days

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 the day with a 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.

End at your hotel.

Note: If your flight arrives 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

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, water puppet show and night train to Lao Cai

9:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel to visit the Temple of Literature, an 11th-century Confucian sanctuary and Vietnam’s first national university. Explore the beautifully preserved courtyards, including the iconic Khue Van Cac (Pavilion of the Constellation of Literature), and the stone steles which honor past scholars.

Next, head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which is closed on Mondays. This museum offers a comprehensive look at Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups through its exhibits of traditional houses, tools, and clothing. Allocate around two hours to fully appreciate its rich collection.

In the early afternoon, visit Hanoi’s French Quarter. Stroll through its elegant streets, grand buildings, and charming squares. Visit the exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, and take a leisurely walk through the surrounding gardens to see the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and the historic One Pillar Pagoda. Depending on your pace, you can explore this area in about one to two hours.

Afterward, return to the city center and enjoy a brief rest. In the evening, head to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre to experience a traditional water puppet show. This unique art form, dating back to the 11th century, features intricate puppetry on water, accompanied by live traditional music.

Post-show, you’ll have some free time to explore Hanoi’s lively city center and enjoy dinner on your own. Finally, transfer to Hanoi Train Station for your overnight train journey to Sapa.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Water puppet
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Train:SP3 (Hanoi - Lao Cai) / 22:00 - 05:55 - Deluxe( 4 berths / cabin) / 06 tickets

Trekking through the World's most amazing rice terrace in Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, meeting H'mong & Dzay people

After arriving in Sapa, start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before setting off on an exploration of Y Linh Ho villiage. Begin by descending through the picturesque valley, where you'll interact with the friendly H'mong families residing in traditional stilt houses. Take a moment to relax on a picturesque cable bridge, immersed in the tranquil beauty of the landscape.

For the adventurous, a trek up the buffalo trails offers spectacular views and a chance to escape the usual tourist routes. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, enjoy a pleasant walk along the Muong Hoa River, surrounded by serene nature.

From there, journey to Lao Chai village by following a narrow path winding through the rice fields. In this charming village, you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet an elderly woman who is the last artisan in the area, using traditional beeswax techniques to enhance the indigo garments of the H'mong people. This visit provides a rare insight into their rich cultural heritage and daily life.

Continue your exploration to Ta Van village, where the Dzay people reside. Perched on a hill with stunning views of the river, rice terraces, and the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range, Ta Van offers a chance to stroll through scenic landscapes and visit local homes. The villagers are known for their warm hospitality, inviting you to experience their way of life up close.

Conclude your day by returning to Sapa, reflecting on the rich cultural encounters and spectacular natural beauty you’ve experienced.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Sapa Elegance Hotel(Deluxe Room)
3 Hoang Dieu street, Sapa town, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Discovering the Red Dao culture in Ma Tra & Ta Phin village, transferring back to Hanoi

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, set out on a trek from the quaint hamlet of Ma Tra to the picturesque village of Ta Phin. This journey will lead you through the stunning rice terrace valleys, offering a perfect opportunity to connect with the Red Dao and Black Hmong communities. These ethnic groups, originally from Southern China, settled in Vietnam in the 11th century and continue to reside at high altitudes, preserving their traditional customs, language, and way of life in relative seclusion.

Along the way, visit the Ma Tra Village school and experience the daily life of a Hmong family, gaining insight into their vibrant culture. After a rewarding 3-hour trek, you will arrive in Ta Phin, the heartland of the Red Dao people. As you wander through the village, engage with the locals to learn more about their unique traditions and way of life.

By 2:30 p.m., return to your shuttle bus, which will take you back to your hotel lobby in preparation for your journey to Hanoi. You’re expected to arrive at your Hanoi hotel around 8:00 p.m., concluding a day filled with cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Sapa - Hanoi
English speaking guide
Meal: B
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

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

8:00 AM: Depart from Hanoi and head towards Ninh Binh, traveling through the picturesque landscapes of the Red River Delta, where verdant rice paddies and vegetable fields paint a serene tableau. You have the option to either walk or embark on a 15-kilometer bike ride through the charming villages. This leisurely excursion along the dykes provides breathtaking views of rice fields, winding waterways, and towering limestone mountains.

During your journey, make a few stops to capture stunning photographs and engage with the locals. Then, take a short walk to explore the historic Thung La Sanctuary, a site dating back to the 11th century. Enjoy a 20-minute drum performance and a fascinating conversation with Mr. Tuong, the guardian of the temple, who will share insights into the temple's history and significance.

Next, embark on a tranquil sampan boat ride along the river, navigating through the limestone mountains to discover the beauty of Van Long Nature Reserve. If you’re lucky, you might spot white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs.
After your boat excursion, visit a local embroidery village where you’ll participate in an embroidery class taught by Mrs. Lam, a skilled local craftswoman. She will guide you through the traditional techniques of her craft, providing you with an excellent opportunity to try your hand at this art form.

In the evening, your driver will return you to your hotel in Hanoi, concluding a day rich in cultural experiences and natural beauty.

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: Departure from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter for a scenic drive of about two and a half hours to Lan Ha Bay along National Highway No5B. Enjoy the views of villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta. Make a stop for refreshments and restroom facilities before continuing to the harbor. Arrive around noon and be warmly welcomed at the cruise reception.

12:00 PM: Meet the Peony Cruises crew at Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh Province.

12:30 PM: Transfer to our support vessel for the journey to board the luxurious Peony Cruises. An itinerary briefing will be provided during this transfer.

1:00 PM: Receive a warm welcome aboard with fresh drinks and wet towels, then enjoy a special lunch featuring a variety of fresh and delicious foods. Set sail for Lan Ha Bay, recognized as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays.

3:30 PM: Explore the Tra Bau area, known for its pristine and poetic natural beauty. Kayak to discover the stunning limestone islands or enjoy the Jacuzzi pool on Peony Cruises.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Join a cooking demonstration to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. Alternatively, head to the top deck to enjoy the stunning sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Take advantage of Happy Hour at the bar—BUY ONE GET ONE FREE and capture the perfect sunset photos.

7:30 PM: Enjoy a delicious dinner of local specialties in a romantic and intimate dining setting.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Relax with exotic cocktails at the sky bar (surcharge applies), opt for a spa treatment (optional), or unwind on the top deck under the night sky. Try squid fishing on the main deck for an added adventure.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Swimming,Squid fishing
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 flight to Danang - Hoi An

6:00 AM: Start your morning with a Tai Chi session and enjoy the sunrise as it lights up the horizon.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Have breakfast while cruising back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast times may adjust according to the day’s schedule).

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Tour the Cat Ba World Biosphere, including a visit to Trung Trang Cave. The 30-minute transfer from Gia Luan brings you to this impressive cave, known for its thousands of unique stalactites and diverse cave ecosystem.

9:30 AM: Return to the boat, check out of your cabin, and place your luggage outside.

Early Lunch: Enjoy an early lunch at the restaurant. Settle any bar charges at the restaurant desk.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Disembark from Peony Cruises and travel back to Tuan Chau Port.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port and get ready for the next leg of your journey.

You will be met by your driver and transferred back to Hanoi in approximately 2.5 hours via the new Highway No5B, passing through the scenic Red River Delta. You will be dropped off at your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel.

A private driver will then pick you up from your hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) for a 45-minute transfer to Noi Bai Airport (either international or domestic terminal based on your preference). Thank you for your visit to our city.

Note: For international flights, please arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to departure; for domestic flights, 2 hours is recommended.

Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, a tour guide and driver will be there to greet you.

During the 30 to 45-minute drive to your hotel, the tour guide will share information about the city’s highlights, dining options, local culture, and transportation tips.

Check into your hotel, then relax and enjoy your free time.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN181 (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:10 - 17:40 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Discovering Hoi An rural by cycling and city walking tour

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel and head towards the historic center of Hoi An. Begin your day with a visit to Cam Pho, one of the town's oldest communal houses. Designed in the shape of a Chinese character, this unique structure has served as a hub for worship, trade, and cultural exchange between locals and traders from China and Japan since its construction.

Take a leisurely stroll to the Chua Cau, or Japanese Covered Bridge, a 17th-century architectural gem. This iconic bridge, linking the Japanese quarter to the Chinese districts, has been carefully preserved over the centuries and is a symbol of Hoi An’s rich history.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Quan Thang Old House, renowned for its authentic architecture and intricate woodwork. This well-preserved home, crafted by skilled artisans from the Kim Bong Carpentry Village, offers a glimpse into traditional Hoi An life and architecture.

Next, head to the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (Fujian Assembly Hall) before taking a scenic ferry ride across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village. This village is celebrated for its woodworking, blending techniques from northern Vietnam, China, and Japan to create a distinctive local style. Enjoy the fresh air and picturesque landscapes as you cruise along the river.

Once in Kim Bong, cycle through the village to experience daily life and visit a local woodworking workshop. Observe the artisans at work and perhaps pick up a handcrafted wooden souvenir.

From Kim Bong, ride your bike to Tra Nhieu Village, where you can immerse yourself in the serene Vietnamese countryside. Along the way, you’ll meet local artisans such as Ms. Duoc, known for her mat weaving; Mr. Kha, who crafts bamboo baskets; and Mr. Huynh Ri, a master boat builder. The journey through palm groves and rice fields provides a picturesque backdrop to your visit.

Next, board a boat to Cam Thanh Village. As you navigate the Thu Bon River, take in views of fishing farms and lush water palm trees. Arrive in Cam Thanh and relax at the home of local fisherman Mr. Phong, enjoying green tea and a soothing foot massage with herbs from his garden.

Participate in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh herbs and vegetables from Tra Que Village. The menu includes crispy pancakes with meat, shrimp, and bean sprouts; Hoi An spring rolls; Tam Huu; and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves.

In the afternoon, embark on a bamboo basket boat ride through the tranquil water palm forest, offering a peaceful conclusion to your day. After your excursion, return to your hotel, reflecting on a day rich with cultural experiences and scenic beauty.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Cam Thanh,Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh
Private transportation
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: Meet your guide and driver at your hotel for a morning adventure to the sacred My Son Sanctuary, located about 40 kilometers from Hoi An. This ancient site was once the spiritual and scholarly center of the Champa Kingdom and possibly served as a royal burial ground. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son features around 70 ancient brick and stone temples dating from the 7th to the 13th centuries.

As you explore the ruins, your guide will provide insights into their cultural, historical, and architectural significance, enriching your understanding of the Champa civilization. Enjoy a traditional Cham dance performance at the sanctuary before concluding your visit.

Afterward, return to Hoi An. You’ll have the afternoon free to wander through the town or relax at the beach, soaking in the local atmosphere and reflecting on your cultural journey.

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

Hoian free & easy

Set a free & easy day. You can be lazy on the beach with family and friends or leisurely walk around the old town, find yourself a gift from this beautiful town or create your own journey ...

Included:
Meal: B
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham sculpture museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue citadel

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel and set off on a scenic drive towards Hue, passing through Da Nang along the coastal route. Upon arriving in Da Nang, stop to explore the Cham Museum, which houses the world's largest collection of Cham artifacts, offering a deep dive into the rich heritage of the Cham civilization.

Next, visit My Khe Beach, where you can enjoy views of the Linh Ung Pagoda and its impressive statue of the Buddha. Take some time to photograph the local fishermen and the picturesque coastline before continuing your journey along the shoreline to Hue.
As you drive, make a brief stop at the summit of the Hai Van Pass to take in the breathtaking vistas of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.

Upon reaching Hue, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Hue, established in 1601. The pagoda, situated on the banks of the Perfume River, is known for its majestic octagonal tower and serene setting, making it a spiritual highlight of the city.

Next, explore the Hue Imperial City, a historic site that stands as a remnant of Vietnam’s former imperial grandeur. Inspired by Vauban's fortresses, the city is divided into three main sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Key highlights include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Imperial Enclosure, and various ceremonial areas.

At the end of the day, check into your hotel in Hue and enjoy your stay in this ancient capital, surrounded by its historical charm and cultural richness.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
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

An amazing day tour to explore Perfurme River by boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, Khai Dinh King's Tomb

8:00 AM: Start your day with a Royal boat cruise on the Huong River, also known as the Perfume River, which flows gracefully through Hue. This scenic boat ride offers a unique opportunity to observe the local life along the riverbanks and enjoy the serene beauty of the waterway.

Arriving at Tien Non village, disembark and embark on a bicycle tour through three charming villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh. In Tien Non, immerse yourself in the daily routines of village life, interacting with locals as they tend to their fields and vegetable gardens. Visit a traditional family home to gain insights into their way of life.

Next, head to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting artificial paper flowers. These paper flowers are used during the Lunar New Year celebrations to honor ancestors. At the workshop of Mr. Hieu, a prominent local artisan, you’ll have the chance to learn the art of making paper flowers and understand the craft’s cultural significance.

Continue your journey to Sinh village, known for its traditional woodblock prints that depict ancient legends and folklore. Meet Mr. Phuoc, who will explain the intricate process of creating these prints and share the history behind this traditional art form. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase some beautiful prints as souvenirs.

Return to the boat for a scenic ride back to Hue. In the afternoon, drive to the Khai Dinh Tomb, a royal mausoleum built over 11 years (1920-1931) on Chau Tru Hill. This tomb is distinctive for its blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. A climb of 100 steps will lead you to the mausoleum, where you can marvel at the stunning decoration, including vibrant porcelain mosaics, an impressive ceiling mural, and a small royal memorabilia gallery. The site also offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Your visit concludes around 4:00 PM. You can choose to spend one more night in Hue or travel to another city by flight or overnight train.

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

From Hue, flying to other destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (in Hue city center) for about 30 minutes to Phu Bai airport for your flight. Thanks for the visit to our city.

Note: Domestic flight requires you to be at the airport 1.5 hours before departure time.

Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN1540 (HUI - HAN) - (Direct) / 10:00 - 11:20 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets