The Taste of north – central Vietnam | Good food & landscapes package – 10 Days

Welcome to Hanoi!

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

Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
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 Temple of literature, Tran Quoc Pagoda treasure, Hoa Lo Prison museum and amazing street food

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel by your local guide and driver. Start by visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda, a revered Buddhist temple dating back to the 6th century during the Ly Nam De Dynasty. This ancient temple, located on the serene West Lake, offers a peaceful start to your day.

Next, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque paths surrounding West Lake before heading to the Temple of Literature. This historic site, Vietnam's first national university, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides fascinating insights into the country's educational history and architectural grandeur.

After visiting the Temple of Literature, proceed to the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, also known as the Hanoi Hilton. This museum offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s history during the French colonial period and the Vietnam War, providing a sobering yet important perspective on the country's past.

Following your museum visit, return to your hotel or explore the vibrant Old Quarter for some downtime before your evening culinary adventure.

4:00 PM: Rejoin your guide for a street food tour starting at Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi. Wander through the charming Bao Khanh Alley to begin your culinary journey. Your first stop will be Banh Cuon, delicate steamed rice pancakes filled with minced pork and mushrooms, served with a tangy dipping sauce made from fish sauce, fried shallots, and fresh herbs. You’ll even have the chance to try making these yourself.

Next, visit the Hanoi Basilica, a striking French colonial church built in 1884, and then head to Hang Manh Street for a taste of Bun Cha Dac Kim. This dish features grilled minced pork and pork belly served in a savory broth with rice vermicelli and fresh herbs, accompanied by crispy spring rolls. The dish is complemented by garlic and chili for added flavor.

No tour of Hanoi’s street food scene would be complete without a stop for Banh Mi. Visit Banh Mi 25, a highly regarded spot known for its delicious, fusion-style sandwiches that originated during French colonial rule.

Your final stop will be at Pho Suong, a renowned spot for enjoying pho, Vietnam’s iconic rice noodle soup. Whether you choose the chicken (pho ga) or beef (pho bo) version, Pho Suong offers an authentic taste of this beloved dish.

Finish your evening with a visit to Hidden Gem Coffee, a unique café where recycled materials are transformed into artistic creations. Enjoy a local beverage, such as egg coffee, honey ginger tea, lemongrass tea, or a bottle of local beer, before returning to your hotel, concluding a day full of cultural and culinary experiences.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, D
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 Hanoi by bus and journey to Ninh Binh, traversing the picturesque landscapes of the Red River Delta. As you travel, enjoy the scenic views of lush rice paddies and vegetable fields that define this fertile region.

Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, you have the option to embark on a 15-kilometer bicycle ride or take a leisurely walk through the charming towns. As you explore, take in the stunning vistas of expansive rice fields, meandering rivers, and majestic limestone mountains. Make several stops to capture the beauty of the landscape and engage with the friendly local residents.

Your exploration leads you to the 11th-century Thung La Temple. Here, you'll meet Mr. Tuong, the temple guardian, who will share insights about the temple's history and traditions. Enjoy a brief drum performance, adding a cultural touch to your visit.
Next, board a sampan boat for a serene ride along the river through the breathtaking Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide through the tranquil waters and admire the limestone peaks rising dramatically from the landscape. If you're fortunate, you might spot white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs.
After the boat trip, visit a nearby weaving village where you'll participate in a weaving workshop led by Mrs. Lam, a skilled local artisan. She will demonstrate traditional weaving techniques and guide you as you practice crafting your own textile piece, offering an immersive experience into this age-old craft.

In the late afternoon, return to Hanoi, concluding a day filled with natural beauty, cultural encounters, and hands-on learning.

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: Start your day with a pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Enjoy a scenic drive of over two hours from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay, traveling along National Route No. 5B. As you pass through the picturesque Red River Delta, you'll see charming villages and lush rice fields. There will be a stop along the way for refreshments and a bathroom break.

12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh province, where the Peony Cruises team will warmly welcome you.

12:30 PM: Board a support vessel for a short transfer to your luxurious cruise ship, Peony Travels. During this transfer, you'll receive an overview of the itinerary. Once aboard, enjoy a refreshing drink and a cool towel as you settle in.

1:00 PM: Relish a delectable lunch featuring an array of fresh seafood and Vietnamese delicacies, served on board as you cruise through the stunning Lan Ha Bay, renowned for its breathtaking beauty.

3:30 PM: Arrive in the Tra Bau area, celebrated for its pristine landscapes and scenic seascapes. This is the perfect time to explore by kayaking, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural splendor of the limestone islands. Alternatively, relax in the ship’s Jacuzzi pool or take a swim in the emerald-green waters of the bay.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Participate in a cooking demonstration where you'll learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. If you prefer, head to the top deck to witness a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Take advantage of Happy Hour at the bar with a BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE offer, and capture the perfect sunset photos.

7:30 PM: Savor a delightful dinner prepared by our talented chef, featuring local cuisine in a romantic setting.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Unwind at the sky bar with intriguing cocktails and beverages (additional charges apply). Enjoy the serene night sky from the top deck or indulge in a spa treatment (optional). For a bit of adventure, try squid fishing on the main deck.

End your evening relaxing and taking in the tranquil beauty of Lan Ha Bay.

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 the day full of energy with a Tai Chi session and enjoy the sun as it rises beyond the horizon.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Breakfast is served while cruising back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast time may be adjusted to follow the real itinerary).

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Join the tour of Cat Ba World Biosphere. It takes 30 minutes to transfer from Gia Luan to Trung Trang cave – one of the most impressive caves in Cat Ba Island, Vietnam. The limestone cave has thousands of stalactites in various shapes, offering geological values with a typical cave ecosystem.

9:30 AM: Return to the main boat from the cave, and you will check out of your cabin. Luggage is to be placed outside of the cabin.

Early Lunch is served at the restaurant. Settle any bar bills at the restaurant's desk (if any).

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

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: You should be ready at Tuan Chau port.

Welcome by driver at the harbor then enjoy 2 and a half hour travel back to Hanoi on the new highway No5B crossing the Red River Delta and villages. Drop off at your hotel (in the Hanoi Old Quarter).

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) for about 45 minutes to Noi Bai 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.

Landing at Da Nang airport you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby.

On the about 30 - 45 minute driving from the airport to your accommodation, your tour guide will introduce you about the city’s highlights and share the experiences of eating and drinking, traffic, culture....

Drive along the beautiful coastline to your hotel, check in and relax.

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

A full day to visit Hoi An city tour

9:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel for a captivating excursion to Hoi An. Once one of Southeast Asia’s most significant trading ports from the 15th to the 19th centuries, Hoi An’s Old Town is exceptionally well-preserved, offering a rich glimpse into its historical significance.

Explore Cam Pho, one of Hoi An's oldest communal houses, designed in the traditional Chinese architectural style. This historic site once served as a hub for worship and trade between local and foreign merchants, including Chinese and Japanese traders.
Next, take a leisurely stroll to Chua Cau, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge built in the 17th century. This bridge was constructed to connect the Japanese quarter with the Chinese districts and has maintained its original design and charm over the centuries.

Continue your walk through the charming streets of Hoi An and visit the Quan Thang Old House. This residence is one of the most authentic examples of traditional Hoi An architecture, featuring exquisite woodwork crafted by artisans from the famous Kim Bong carpentry village. The house provides a fascinating insight into daily life in historical Hoi An.
Your next stop is Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, established in the 17th century as a meeting place for Fujianese residents, traders, and visitors. It is also a religious site dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau. Admire the hall’s vibrant courtyard fountains, intricate gates, and the stunningly carved dragons in the main room.

Conclude your tour with a visit to the bustling Hoi An Central Market. Located by the riverside, this market is a vibrant showcase of local daily life. Wander through the stalls offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, and seafood at affordable prices. The market is also a great place to sample local street food.

After exploring the market, you are free to continue discovering Hoi An on your own or return to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day immersing yourself in the unique charm and culture of this historic town.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
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

Enjoying cooking Class: Farming experiences, local market, traditional cuisine cooking and boat trip

Arrive at Hai Café (98 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An) on your own. Begin your culinary adventure with a briefing before setting off on a bike ride to the nearby village of Tra Que.

In Tra Que, you'll visit a traditional vegetable garden where local farmers use age-old techniques. You’ll have the chance to pick fresh coriander and mint, which will be used later in your dishes.

Next, take your list of required spices to a local market. Here, you’ll shop for essential ingredients such as star anise, cardamom, sesame rice papers, and banana flowers. Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, head back to the Red Bridge Restaurant.
Upon arrival at the Red Bridge Restaurant, you’ll have some time to refresh before joining the cooking class. Under the guidance of Red Bridge’s chefs, you’ll learn how to prepare four classic Vietnamese dishes, including the renowned Pho. The class emphasizes using fresh, local ingredients to create authentic flavors.

After the cooking class, enjoy the fruits of your labor by tasting the dishes you’ve prepared. Conclude your day with a relaxing half-hour cruise on the Thu Bon River, which will take you back to the heart of Hoi An.

Your activities for the day will wrap up around 2:30 PM., leaving you the rest of the afternoon to explore Hoi An or return to your hotel.

Included:
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L
Boat: Thu Bon river
Bike: Hoi An
Cooking class: Hoi An
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: Depart from your hotel and set out on a scenic drive to Hue, traveling along the coast through Da Nang.

Arrive in Da Nang and visit the Cham Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Cham artifacts and sculptures. This museum offers valuable insights into the rich history and culture of the Cham civilization. Take a stroll to My Khe Beach, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and admire the impressive Linh Ung Pagoda. The pagoda is home to a colossal statue of the Buddha, known for its serene beauty and commanding presence.

Continue your drive and stop at Hai Van Pass for stunning panoramic views of the coastline and ocean. This mountain pass offers breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. Arrive in Hue, where you'll enjoy a traditional lunch featuring local delicacies.
After lunch, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue's most revered landmarks. Built in 1601, this ancient pagoda is renowned for its elegant octagonal tower and picturesque views over the Perfume River.

Next, explore the Imperial City, or Citadel, a vast fortress complex that once served as the Nguyen Dynasty's royal seat. The Citadel is divided into three main sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Royal City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Key highlight2s include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Forbidden Purple City, and various ceremonial halls.

After your historical tour, check into your hotel in Hue. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing and exploring the ancient capital at your leisure.

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

Full day to Explore Hue, Boat trip Huong river, Ming Mang's tomb, Thuy Bieu village.

Begin your day with a transfer from your hotel to the grand tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. This architectural gem, designed during Minh Mang's reign (1820–1840), showcases a blend of imperial religious artistry and natural surroundings. Although Minh Mang initiated the design, it was completed by his successor, Thieu Tri, with the help of ten thousand artisans and workers.

Continue your exploration with a serene boat ride along the Huong River, also known as the Perfume River. The journey offers picturesque views of the lush riverbanks and tranquil scenery. After approximately an hour on the river, arrive in Thuy Bieu Town, renowned for its lush grapefruit orchards. Here, you can cycle through the village, shaded by the fragrant grapefruit trees, and immerse yourself in the tranquil village atmosphere.

As you ride, you'll experience the village's peaceful charm and view the harvested straw fields. Visit a local shrine dedicated to the town's guardian, and admire traditional garden houses that date back several centuries. This is an excellent opportunity for photography and to interact with local villagers working in their gardens and vegetable fields.

Participate in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Hue dishes using local ingredients. Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring the dishes you’ve made.

In the afternoon, return to the city of Hue. Your tour will conclude around 3:00 p.m., leaving you with the rest of the day to relax or explore Hue at your own pace.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Thuy Bieu - Minh Mang
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Thuy Bieu
Cooking class: Thuy Bieu
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