Landscape and people of the Northern & Central Vietnam | Authentic package journey – 12 Days

Welcome to Hanoi, walking tour

On your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you'll be welcomed by a professional tour guide and driver at the pickup area. They will drive you to Hanoi’s Old Quarter in about 45 minutes, providing a briefing on the city's popular sights, culture, traffic, and food. Check into your hotel upon arrival and take some time to relax.

(Note: The hotel check-in time is 14:00.)

Your afternoon will be spent on a walking tour, beginning with a visit to Ba Da Pagoda, a serene spot in a small alley close to the Hanoi Great Cathedral, which dates back to the French colonial era. Your guide will lead you through significant streets such as Lan Ong Street, which features traditional medicine shops, and Lo Ren Street, known for metalwork. Visit Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest market, and then explore Ta Hien Street, famous for its lively nightlife and street food. Sample some local dishes for a memorable 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

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

9:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel by your tour guide to visit the Temple of Literature, built in the 11th century under the Ly dynasty for Confucius worship and royal education. Enjoy a walk in the garden to see Khue Van Cac, a city symbol, and view the World Heritage "stone steles" honoring distinguished students. Continue your visit to Quoc Tu Giam, recognized as Vietnam’s first national university.

Your next stop is the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays), which offers an in-depth look at Vietnamese culture through traditional costumes, tools, musical instruments, and ethnic group houses. Allocate around two hours to fully explore this engaging museum.

In the afternoon, visit the French Quarter, a district reminiscent of "Little Paris" with its elegant boulevards, government buildings, and a large square. You’ll visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum from the outside, then take a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens to the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Proceed to the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique and historic city landmark. The exploration of this area will take about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the group.

Return to the city center to rest before attending a traditional water puppet show. This unique performance, which originated in the 11th century, depicts Vietnamese culture, daily life, and beliefs through puppetry on water, usually accompanied by traditional music.

Head back to your hotel to end your 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

Travelling to Muong hamlet & scenic views at Thung Khe, Authentic life of Thai in Mai Hich, Sam Khoe, Buoc villages

8:00 AM: Meet your tour guide and driver for departure to Mai Chau. En route, visit a traditional Muong village. Continue on to Thung Khe Pass, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the valley before reaching Mai Chau town. This picturesque valley, located 145 km from Hanoi, is renowned for its lush landscapes, verdant mountains, rice terraces, and White Thai ethnic villages.

Upon arriving in Mai Hich village, check into your accommodation and enjoy a lunch prepared by your host. In the afternoon, explore Mai Hich by walking along its trails and concrete roads. The scenic beauty of the villages, rice fields, mountains, and streams creates a harmonious landscape. Take the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals, who are always eager to invite you in for a cup of tea.

Afterward, continue your trek through rice fields and small communities to Xam Khoe, a less-visited Thai village. Here, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the area. At the end of the day, return to your accommodation with your driver.

Note: Private traditional music and dancing show by local people is available with extra cost of $35/group. Please ask our guide to reserve if you are interested in.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh , Vietnam

Excursion to Muong community in Eo Ken & Ban Hang villages, transfer to Ninh Binh

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a journey from Mai Hich to the picturesque village of Eo Ken, located 30 km away. As you descend the slopes, marvel at the stunning views of Pu Luong nature reserve, where terraced rice fields and rolling mountains paint a serene landscape. Upon arriving in Eo Ken, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a Muong family, and experience their authentic way of life. Wander through the enchanting scenery, crossing a gentle stream to reach the quaint Hang Village. Following this cultural exploration, enjoy a leisurely drive to Mai Chau for a delicious lunch.

Afterwards, continue your journey to Ninh Binh, making time to connect with the local people and capture captivating photographs along the way. Arrive in Ninh Binh by late afternoon, and settle into your hotel, ready for a relaxing evening.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Nep House(Double Room)
Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam

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

8:00 AM: Start your day with a refreshing 15km bicycle ride along the picturesque dyke, where you'll encounter stunning views of rice paddies, a tranquil stream, and dramatic limestone mountains. Along the way, make frequent stops to capture the beauty through your lens and engage with the friendly local residents. Your journey will lead you to Thung La Temple, a historic site dating back to the 11th century. Don’t miss the chance to explore traditional Vietnamese instruments that are integral to the local spiritual practices.

Next, embark on a serene sampan boat ride through Van Long Nature Reserve, navigating the stream and weaving between limestone peaks. Keep an eye out for white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs, adding a touch of wildlife to your adventure. After the boat ride, visit a local embroidery village where you'll attend a class taught by Mrs. Lam, a skilled craftswoman. She will guide you through the techniques of traditional Vietnamese embroidery, offering you the chance to practice and create your own masterpiece.

Return your bicycle to the homestay, bid farewell to your gracious host, and set off for Hanoi. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Red River Delta as you travel, capturing breathtaking photographs of lush rice fields and serene landscapes along the way.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Van Long
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Tam Coc
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 hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter to begin your 2.5-hour drive to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No5B. Enjoy views of local villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta, with a stop for refreshments and restroom use. Arrive at the harbor around noon and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh province, where Peony Cruises staff will greet you.

12:30 PM: Transfer to Peony Cruises via our support vessel, with a briefing on the itinerary provided during the ride.

1:00 PM: Board the cruise to be welcomed with drinks and wet towels, followed by a delicious lunch featuring fresh and diverse cuisine. Set sail for Lan Ha Bay, recognized for its beauty as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays.

3:30 PM: Explore the Tra Bau area, known for its pristine beauty and striking seascapes. Engage in kayaking to experience the bay’s limestone formations or enjoy a soak in the Jacuzzi pool aboard Peony Cruises.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Take part in a cooking demonstration to learn the art of making Vietnamese spring rolls or enjoy the sunset from the top deck with a Happy Hour - BUY ONE GET ONE FREE offer at the bar. This is a perfect time for sunset photography.

7:30 PM: Enjoy a romantic dinner featuring local specialties prepared by our chef.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Relax with cocktails at the sky bar (additional charges apply), indulge in a spa treatment (optional), or unwind on the top deck. Alternatively, try your hand at squid fishing on the main deck.

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 flight to Danang - Hoi An

6:00 AM: Begin your day with Tai Chi as you watch the sunrise.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Enjoy breakfast on the boat as you cruise back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast timing may vary depending on the day’s schedule.)

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Visit the Cat Ba World Biosphere, including Trung Trang Cave, a 30-minute transfer from Gia Luan. The cave features impressive stalactites and offers a glimpse into a unique cave ecosystem.

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

Early Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the restaurant and settle any bar bills at the restaurant desk.

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

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Be ready for departure at Tuan Chau Port.

Return to Hanoi: Your driver will take you on a 2.5-hour journey back to Hanoi along Highway No5B, showcasing the Red River Delta and local villages. You’ll be dropped off at your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel.

Airport Transfer: A private driver will collect you from your hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) and transport you to Noi Bai Airport (international or domestic terminal as per your flight details). Please arrive 3 hours before an international flight or 2 hours before a domestic flight.

Arrival in Da Nang: At Da Nang Airport, a tour guide and driver will meet you at the pickup lobby.
Hotel Transfer: Enjoy a 30 to 45-minute drive to your hotel. Your guide will provide an overview of the city’s highlights, including dining, traffic, and cultural tips. Check into your hotel and unwind.

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: Begin your day with a transfer from your hotel to the heart of Hoi An. Your first stop is Cam Pho, one of the town’s oldest communal houses, built in the shape of a Chinese character to symbolize its role in worship, trade, and cultural exchange among locals, Chinese, and Japanese traders.

Next, take a leisurely stroll to the Chua Cau, or Japanese Covered Bridge, a 17th-century landmark that once connected the Japanese quarter with the Chinese districts. The bridge’s original design has been lovingly preserved over the centuries.

Immerse yourself in Hoi An’s rich heritage by visiting the Quan Thang old house. This well-preserved residence showcases traditional architecture and intricate woodwork crafted by artisans from the renowned Kim Bong carpentry village, offering a glimpse into the daily life of a Hoi An family.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (also known as Fujian Assembly Hall). From there, board a ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village. On the boat, enjoy the fresh air and scenic views of the riverbanks.

Kim Bong is famed for its wood carving craftsmanship. The artisans here, who originally adopted techniques from northern Vietnam, have successfully integrated Chinese and Japanese styles to create their unique designs. Cycle around the village to observe daily life and visit a workshop to admire the craftsmanship. You’ll also have the chance to purchase wooden souvenirs.

Your next stop is Tra Nhieu village. Cycle through the rural heartland of Vietnam, where you can meet Ms. Duoc, who specializes in mat weaving, Mr. Kha, who crafts bamboo sampan baskets, and Mr. Huynh Ri, known for his shipbuilding skills. Enjoy the expansive views of palm groves, rice fields, and hardworking farmers.

From Tra Nhieu, embark on a boat trip along the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh village. Enjoy the sights of fishing farms and water palm trees during the ride. Once in Cam Thanh, visit Mr. Phong’s home for a relaxing foot massage and a cup of green tea made from herbs grown in his garden.

Participate in a cooking class featuring vegetables and herbs from Tra Que village. Learn how to prepare local delicacies such as crispy pancakes with meat, shrimp, and beansprouts, Hoi An spring rolls, Tam Huu, and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves.
In the afternoon, take a small round bamboo sampan boat into the serene water palm forest. After a full day of activities, this peaceful excursion will offer a perfect moment of relaxation.

Return to your hotel by evening, concluding a day filled with cultural immersion and picturesque adventures.

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: Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel by your knowledgeable guide and driver. Set out on a half-day excursion to the mystical My Son Sanctuary, located 40 km from Hoi An. This ancient site was once the spiritual and intellectual heart of the Champa Empire and possibly served as a royal necropolis.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son is home to 70 stunning brick and stone ruins, constructed between the 7th and 13th centuries. As you wander through the remains, your expert guide will unveil the rich cultural, historical, and architectural narratives behind each structure.
Before leaving the sanctuary, enjoy a captivating traditional Champa dance performance, which will offer a glimpse into the vibrant cultural heritage of the Champa people.

Return to Hoi An, where you’ll have free time to explore the charming town at your own pace or unwind on the beach.

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

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

8:00 AM: After being picked up from your hotel, travel to Hue along the scenic coastal route through Da Nang. In Da Nang, stop at the Cham Museum, known for its significant Cham cultural collections. Next, visit My Khe Beach to view the impressive Goodness of Mercy statues at Linh Ung Pagoda and take photographs of local fishermen. Continue driving along the coast to Hue, making a stop at Hai Van Pass for spectacular views of the ocean.
Upon arrival in Hue, enjoy lunch before heading to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s oldest pagodas, founded in 1601. It is celebrated for its magnificent octagonal tower and scenic views of the Perfume River.

Explore the Hue Citadel, the remaining symbol of Vietnam's imperial history. Inspired by Vauban’s fortifications, the Citadel includes Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Key sites to visit include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple Area, and the residential quarters.

Finish your day by checking into your hotel and enjoying your stay in Hue.

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.
At 8:00 AM, embark on a captivating journey along the Huong River, also known as the Perfume River, aboard a Royal boat. This serene voyage will take you east of the city, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Disembark at Tien Non village and hop on a bicycle for a scenic ride through three charming villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh.
In Tien Non, immerse yourself in the rhythms of rural life as you explore vibrant fields and vegetable gardens. Meet local farmers and gain insight into their daily routines. Next, visit a traditional family home to witness their unique way of life and cultural practices.
Continue your journey to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting intricate paper flowers. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Mr. Hieu’s workshop, a hub of creativity where you can learn the art of paper flower making from one of the village’s master artisans.
Next, pedal your way to Sinh village, a place celebrated for its historic woodblock prints. Meet Mr. Phuoc, a local expert who will unravel the secrets behind these traditional prints and share the stories they tell.
After a day rich in cultural exploration, return to the boat and head back to the city. In the late afternoon, journey to the Khai Dinh Tomb, a grandiose mausoleum perched on Chau Tru Hill. This tomb, built over 11 years (1920-1931), is a stunning fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Climb the 100 steps to the mausoleum and be awed by its exquisite porcelain décor, a breathtaking ceiling mural, and a small museum showcasing royal artifacts. As you descend, enjoy panoramic views of the tomb and its surrounding landscape.
Conclude your visit around 4:00 p.m. You can choose to extend your stay in Hue or continue your adventure by flying or taking an overnight train to your next destination.
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