Truly Northern & Central Vietnam | Authentic experience package – 12 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, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town

9:00 AM: Begin your adventure with a local guide who will take you to the historic Temple of Literature, established during the Ly dynasty in the 11th century to honor Confucius and educate the royal offspring. Enjoy a serene walk through the garden to the iconic Khue Van Cac, a symbol of scholarly pursuit and cultural heritage.

Next, delve into the World Heritage site of the "stone steles," where the names of Vietnam’s most celebrated scholars are inscribed. Continue your journey at the Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s first national university, which stands as a testament to the nation’s rich educational history.

In the early afternoon, visit the Ethnology Museum, a must-see for a comprehensive understanding of Vietnamese culture. This museum showcases traditional houses, tools, and attire from various ethnic groups, so plan to spend around two hours exploring its fascinating exhibits.

Later, explore the French Quarter, an elegant area reminiscent of Paris with its tree-lined streets, colonial buildings, and grand squares. Stop by Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum (viewed from the outside), then stroll through the Presidential Gardens to the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House, where the former leader lived and worked. Don’t miss the One-Pillar Pagoda, a distinctive and historic site. Depending on the number of visitors, you can explore this area in about one to two hours.

Wrap up your day by returning to the city center for a unique experience at a traditional water puppet show. Dating back to the 11th century, these performances are staged on water and vividly depict Vietnamese culture, folklore, and daily life, often accompanied by traditional music.

Return to your hotel in the evening, reflecting on a day filled with cultural and historical richness.

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

Visiting Muong village, scenic views at Thung Khe pass, exploring Thai culture in Mai Hich then overnight in homestay

8:00 AM: Meet with your guide and driver, then set off for Mai Chau. En route, stop by a traditional Muong village to experience the local culture. Continue your journey through the scenic Thung Khe Pass, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the valley below before arriving in the picturesque town of Mai Chau.

Situated 145 km from Hanoi, Mai Chau is a charming valley known for its stunning landscapes, verdant mountain ranges, rice paddies, and the White Thai ethnic villages. Upon arrival in Mai Hich, check into your accommodation and savor a meal prepared by your host, featuring local delicacies.

In the afternoon, explore Mai Hich either by bike (optional) or on foot, wandering through scenic paths and well-trodden trails. The harmonious blend of villages, rice fields, mountains, and streams creates a captivating landscape. Take time to interact with the friendly locals, who are always eager to share a cup of tea and their warm hospitality.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, reflecting on a day filled with cultural immersion and natural beauty.

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
Bike: Mai Chau
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh , Vietnam

Enjoying an excursion to Muong homeland from Eo Ken to Ban Hang village, Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Chieng Lau discovery

After departing from Mai Hich, head directly to Eo Ken, located 30 km away, where you will encounter the Muong ethnic community. Take a leisurely walk down the slope to enjoy stunning views of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, with its terraced rice fields and rolling mountains.

In Eo Ken village, visit a Muong family to gain insight into their traditional way of life. Continue your journey on foot through this breathtaking landscape, crossing a stream to reach Hang Village.

From Hang Village, your driver will take you to Pu Luong, where you will check in to your accommodation. In the late afternoon, make your way to Chieng Lau, a picturesque area renowned for its lush rice fields and traditional bamboo water wheels. Embark on a scenic walk through this charming region, interact with the local residents, and witness the bamboo water wheels used for irrigation.

Return to your hotel, reflecting on a day of cultural discovery and natural beauty.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Boat: Chieng Lau bamboo rafting
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Pu Luong Home(Double Room (Shared bathroom))
Ba Thuoc district, Thanh Hoa , Vietnam

Trekking in the rice terraces, exploring the Thai culture in Chom Uoi, Lan Ngoai villages

8:00 AM: Begin your day by descending into the breathtaking valley from your accommodation. As you traverse through stunning rice terraces, follow charming trails leading you gradually to the villages of Chom Uoi and Chom Lan. Capture the picturesque landscapes with your camera, showcasing the harmonious blend of rice paddies, villages, fields, lakes, streams, and mountains.

Continue your hike to Pho Doan, where you'll enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, experiencing the flavors of regional cuisine.

After lunch, journey towards Ninh Binh. On the way, make a stop to explore Cam Luong’s sacred fish stream. This site is renowned for its unique fish species, which hold a special place in local lore and are considered "sacred" due to the many legends surrounding them.

Proceed to Ninh Binh and check into your accommodation, ready to unwind after a day of exploration.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
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: Embark on a 15 km bicycle journey along the scenic dyke, where you'll be treated to stunning views of rice fields, a winding river, and towering limestone mountains. Along the way, make several stops to capture picturesque photographs and interact with friendly locals.

Your first stop is the historic Thung La Temple, a 11th-century site where you can explore its cultural significance and experience traditional Vietnamese music. Try your hand at playing some of the traditional instruments, which are integral to Vietnamese spiritual practices.

Next, continue your adventure to the Van Long Nature Reserve. Enjoy a serene sampan boat ride along the stream, drifting through dramatic limestone landscapes. If you’re lucky, you might spot white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs.
After the boat ride, visit a local embroidery village and take part in a class with Mrs. Lam, a skilled craftswoman. She will guide you through the traditional techniques of Vietnamese embroidery, offering you the chance to create your own piece of art.

Return your bicycle to your homestay, bid farewell to your host, and begin your journey back to Hanoi. As you travel through the Red River Delta, soak in the picturesque countryside and lush rice fields, and seize the opportunity for more memorable photographs.

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 in Bai Tu Long bay, exploring Cap La Island, cooking class and overnight on boat

8:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and embark on a three-hour drive to Bai Tu Long Bay. Travel through beautiful villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta, with a stop for refreshments and restroom needs. Arrive at the harbor around noon and be warmly greeted at the cruise reception.

11:30 - 11:45 AM: Arrive at the Ha Long International Cruise Port lounge, where you can relax while the captain completes the registration. Transfer to the cruise boat by tender.

12:00 - 12:15 PM: Receive a welcome drink and safety briefing before settling into your cabin.
1:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese set menu lunch while cruising through Bai Tu Long Bay.

3:00 PM: Arrive at Cap La Island for kayaking amidst stunning karst formations. You can also swim or relax in this beautiful setting.

5:40 PM: Return to the boat for the Sunset Party and join a Vietnamese cooking demonstration or try fruit and vegetable carving.

7:00 PM: Enjoy a sumptuous set dinner on board.

8:30 - 10:00 PM: Take part in Vietnamese puzzle games, board games, squid fishing, or relax with a cocktail while enjoying the peaceful bay atmosphere.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
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
Boutique Swan Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
3 Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kien district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Visiting the charm of Thien Canh Son cave, stunning cruising and back to Hanoi for flight to Danang, Hoi An

06:30 AM: Begin with a sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck or take in the morning views of the bay with a cup of tea or coffee.

07:00: Enjoy a Western-style breakfast to prepare for another day of exploration.

07:45 AM: Visit the hidden Thien Canh Son Cave.

09:00 AM: Return to the boat for about 30 minutes to freshen up and finish packing.

09:30 AM: Check out.

10:00 AM: Have a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat.

10:30 AM: Return to the harbor.

11:15 - 11:30 AM: Disembark at Ha Long Cruise Port.
Meet your driver at the harbor for your return trip to Hanoi, with a rest stop en route. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

A private driver will then collect you from your hotel lobby in the Hanoi Old Quarter for the 45-minute drive to Noi Bai Airport (based on whether you need the international or domestic terminal). Thank you for visiting our city.

Note: For international flights, arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights, 2 hours prior.

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

You’ll be driven 30 to 45 minutes to your accommodation, with your guide providing information on the city’s highlights and advice on dining, transport, and local culture.

Drive along the scenic 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

Discovering Hoi An rural by cycling and city walking tour

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a trip from your hotel to the heart of Hoi An. Start by exploring Cam Pho, one of the town’s oldest communal houses. Constructed in the shape of a Chinese character, this historic site has served as a center for worship, trade, and cultural interaction between locals, Chinese settlers, and Japanese traders.

Take a leisurely stroll to Chua Cau, also known as the Japanese Covered Bridge. Built in the 17th century, this bridge was designed to connect the Japanese quarter with the Chinese areas. Its original design has been beautifully preserved over the centuries.
Continue your walk through the charming streets of Hoi An to the Quan Thang Old House. This well-preserved example of traditional architecture features intricate woodwork by artisans from Kim Bong village, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.

Next, visit the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (Fujian Assembly Hall), an important cultural and historical site. Afterward, take a scenic boat ride across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village, known for its traditional wood carving. Enjoy the tranquil river views and the lush landscapes along the way.

Once in Kim Bong village, explore the local woodcarving workshops and learn about the traditional techniques passed down through generations. You can rent a bicycle to tour the village, observe the artisans at work, and purchase unique wooden crafts as souvenirs.

From Kim Bong, cycle to Tra Nhieu village, immersing yourself in the picturesque Vietnamese countryside. Meet local artisans like Ms. Duoc, who makes woven mats; Mr. Kha, who creates bamboo baskets; and Mr. Huynh Ri, who works in a traditional shipyard. As you ride through the fields and palm groves, observe the daily activities of farmers and craftsmen.

Take a boat ride from Tra Nhieu to Cam Thanh village, navigating through scenic waterways lined with fishing farms and water palm trees. Upon reaching Cam Thanh, relax at the home of fisherman Mr. Phong, where you can enjoy green tea and a soothing foot massage with herbs from his garden.
Participate in a cooking class using fresh herbs and vegetables from Tra Que village. Learn to prepare classic Hoi An dishes such as crispy pancakes with meat, shrimp, and bean sprouts; spring rolls; Tam Huu; and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves.
In the afternoon, take a relaxing ride in a traditional bamboo sampan basket boat through the serene water palm forest. This peaceful experience offers a perfect end to your day of cultural exploration.

Return to your hotel in the evening, reflecting on a day filled with rich cultural experiences and culinary delights.

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

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

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Hue, passing through Da Nang along the picturesque coastal route. Upon arrival in Da Nang, stop at the Cham Museum, which boasts the world’s largest collection of Cham art and artifacts, providing a comprehensive look into the Cham civilization.

After exploring the museum, head to My Khe Beach, known for its stunning views of the Linh Ung Pagoda and its impressive statue of the Goddess of Mercy. Capture some memorable photos of the local fishermen and the beautiful beach scenery before continuing your journey along the coast to Hue.

On your way to Hue, take a moment to stop at the summit of the Hai Van Pass. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains, a perfect spot for photos and a brief respite.

Arrive in Hue and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Following your meal, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic site dating back to 1601. This ancient pagoda is renowned for its majestic seven-story tower and offers stunning views over the Perfume River, serving as a key spiritual center for the city.

Next, explore Hue Citadel - the Imperial City, the only vestige symbol for what was once the imperial city of Vietnam. It is inspired by the fortification of Vauban. Hue Citadel is divided into three main sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Inner City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Discover notable sites within the Imperial City, including the Flag Tower, the Southern Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Forbidden Purple City, and the ceremonial areas.

Finish your day by settling into your accommodation in the historic city of Hue, enjoying the rich cultural and historical ambiance of Vietnam's ancient capital.

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 trip along the Huong River, also known as the Perfume River. This scenic journey offers a unique opportunity to experience local life along the riverbanks. As you glide through the tranquil waters, take in the picturesque surroundings and observe daily activities on both sides of the river.

Upon reaching Tien Non village, disembark for a bike ride through three charming villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh. In Tien Non village, immerse yourself in the local way of life by visiting fields and vegetable gardens, and meet the villagers who are actively involved in agriculture. Explore a traditional family home and learn about local customs and practices.

Next, head to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting paper flowers. These paper flowers are especially significant during the Lunar New Year, as they are used to honor ancestors. Visit the workshop of Mr. Hieu, a skilled artisan, and observe his expert techniques in creating these intricate paper flowers. You’ll even have the chance to try your hand at making your own.

Continue your journey to Sinh village, famous for its traditional woodblock prints. Meet Mr. Phuoc, a local expert who will explain the intricate process of creating these historic prints. This visit provides a wonderful opportunity to purchase unique prints as souvenirs.

Return to Hue by boat in the early afternoon. Later, drive to Khai Dinh's Tomb, located on Chau Tru Hill and constructed over eleven years (1920 - 1931). This tomb stands out due to its fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Climb the 100 steps to reach the main burial chamber, where you’ll find elaborate decorations, including vibrant porcelain mosaics, a grand ceiling painting, and a small collection of royal artifacts. Enjoy the panoramic views of the tomb and the surrounding landscape from this vantage point.

Conclude your day with a visit around 4:00 PM. You may choose to spend another 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