Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll find our driver waiting to take you to your hotel in the city center. Time for relaxing after the journey. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating destination that offers travelers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Located in the northern part of the country, the city is known for its seamless blending of tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hanoi has something for all.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Your day begins at 8:00 am with a warm hotel pick-up, where we'll whisk you away to start your day orientating around Hanoi.

First, we'll delve into Vietnam's rich educational heritage with a visit to the prestigious Temple of Literature. Be enchanted by the beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens of this ancient university, a symbol of wisdom and intellectual achievement. Next, prepare to be captivated by the diversity of Vietnamese culture at the Museum of Ethnology. Immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that showcase the country's ethnic groups, their traditional customs, and colorful heritage.

After a delightful lunch tantalizing your taste buds with authentic Hanoi cuisine, in the afternoon, we continue our journey with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex to gain insight into the life of Vietnam's beloved leader as we explore the Presidential Palace, Stilt House, and One Pillar Pagoda.

Next, we'll immerse ourselves in Hanoi's bustling heart, the Old Quarter, navigating its charming alleys and partaking in an enticing street food tasting to savor the city's culinary delights. Finally, we'll be awed by the mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that brings age-old tales to life. Back to your hotel before sunset time.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: in Tam Coc

8:30 - You will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi by our guide and driver and head to Green Ninh Binh (the drive should take us less than 2 hours on the highway). 

Upon arrival, you will visit Hoa Lu, the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam back in the 10th century. Your guide will take you through the history of Vietnam a thousand years back by visiting some temples dedicated to the Kings. After that, you will drive through the scenic landscape and countryside villages to Tam Coc village and enjoy a home lunch at one of the village’s houses. 

In the afternoon, you will hop on your bicycles for an easy-paced ride to a local pier to board a rowing sampan for about one hour, sailing through the less-traveled canals of the region, whose beauty has nothing to envy the busiest ones. You will sail through caves and along the Thung Nham wetland, a part of the spectacular natural site of the Trang An landscape complex. After the boat trip, let's continue the cycling route through the scenic rural landscapes in Tam Coc to get a closer look at the villages’ rural life. 

As the sun goes down, we’ll head to Hang Mua (Mua Cave) for an adventurous 500 steps to a spectacular view. Once on top, enjoy the spectacular view of the rivers, rice fields, and villages in the surrounding area. Overnight in Tam Coc

If you prefer not to cycle, please inform your Handspan travel consultant. A very interesting and more relaxed tour program can be customized to meet your preferences.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: on board the Treasure Junk

After breakfast, we depart early for an approximate 4-hour drive to Hai Phong/ Halong City through the Red River Delta region. You’ll arrive at a good time for boarding an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay.

Upon arrival, we will board the Treasure Junk and start to cruise towards the boundaries of Halong Bay while a delicious lunch with fresh seafood is served (vegetarian and kid’s menus available).

Make yourself at ease and just relax after lunch. Hundreds of emerging limestone rock formations will parade all around us for about 2 hours before our first stop. We will then reach the perfect spot, where the waters of Halong and Bai Tu Long hit and wave together. Let's get ready for a closer look at the water and explore the bay in depth paddling on our own kayak.

We’ll get back on the Treasure before sunset when we will be able to enjoy a cocktail on board while we will sail to the anchorage area where we will spend the night offshore. The dinner will be served either inside or outside on the deck, depending on weather conditions. Overnight on board in our cozy air-conditioned cabin with an en-suite bathroom. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

Awaken to the serene misty bay at 6:30 a.m., where coffee, tea, and cakes await. You can choose to energize your body, mind, and soul with a 30-minute Tai Chi session led by our onboard master or simply bask in the sun with coffee. Later, embark on a bamboo boat to explore a secluded floating village, meandering through floating houses and rowing boats serving various purposes. Returning to the Treasure before 9:00 am, we'll cruise back to the pier, followed by a brunch at 9:30. As we bid farewell to the majestic rocks guarding the kingdom, we'll head to the pier and get a transfer back to Hanoi by our shuttle bus. 

You'll have free time until our driver arrives to take you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, our local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for your overnight accommodation. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

8:00 - pick up from your hotel, your exploration begins with a scenic boat trip along the serene Perfume River, leading you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of the city's historical significance dating back to the 17th century. Following this, a comfortable car transfer will take you to the Imperial Citadel, where you'll stroll along the ancient ramparts and delve into the intriguing relics nestled within. Savor the flavors of Hue during a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, where you'll indulge in the city's specialty dishes. 

In the afternoon, the exploration continues with a visit to the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, showcasing the grandeur of imperial architecture. Wrap up your day by visiting a delightful garden house in Thuy Bieu village, offering you the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing tea break with the welcoming host and engage in any questions you may have.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An.

9:00 am - depart from your hotel to Danang via the awe-inspiring Hai Van Pass. Get ready to go through a truly beautiful coastal road! The views from the top are simply excellent; we should be able to see Lang Co beach, the Laguna far below, and Danang spreading out in the south. We will understand why this is considered the prettiest road in the country. 

Once in Danang, we will have time to make a stop en route at the Marble Mountains before settling down at our address in Hoi An.

In the afternoon, we discover the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's Old Town on foot. Strolling through the ancient streets, you'll be captivated by the significant architecture that has earned Hoi An a UNESCO World Heritage status. Our guide will regale you with captivating tales and historical anecdotes, allowing you to truly appreciate the charm of this historic gem.

A visit to Hoi An is incomplete without trying one of the city's delectable street foods. We’ll take you to a local spot where you can relish the mouthwatering flavors of Vietnam, and choose a savory delicacy or a sweet treat that will tantalize your taste buds.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An

Explore the picturesque Hoi An countryside on a delightful cycling tour! The adventure begins at 8:00 AM when we pick you up from your hotel and provide you with bicycles. We'll pedal our way toward Cam Kim Island, where fascinating experiences await. Along the route, we'll stop at a local house to learn about traditional handicrafts, gaining insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The excitement continues as we take an exhilarating bamboo basket ride and cross the river in a charming traditional boat. 

After working up an appetite, we'll savor a scrumptious lunch at a riverside eatery, relishing the local flavors amidst stunning scenery. We'll conclude the trip with a transfer back to your hotel. The trip ends around 1:00 PM

The total cycling distance is around 12 km (by city bicycles and at an easy level). If cycling is something not your favorite, a transfer by local motorbike or ArmyJeep can be arranged with a surcharge.

Meal: breakfast, dinner | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

Savor your free time at your own pace until our driver comes to bring you to Danang airport, where your morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City awaits. 

In the early evening, let’s adventure through the heart of Saigon by joining our thrilling Night Motorbike Tour. Picked up from your hotel at 18:00, hopping onto a motorbike to join the city's vibrant rush-hour traffic. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting an open market, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Vietnam come alive. Indulge your taste buds with a tantalizing array of street food, each a renowned gem of Saigon's culinary scene. Your journey takes a unique turn as you explore an old apartment building, a living testament to Saigon's history since 1968. Step inside a local family's home to gain deeper insights into Saigon's authentic way of life. This tour isn't just a ride; it's an exploration of Saigon's soul, its nightlife, and the hidden treasures that come alive in the moonlit hours.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, we'll pick you up from your hotel and transport you to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, where you'll immerse yourself in the rich wartime history of Vietnam. Discover the intricate tunnel network, learn about guerrilla warfare tactics, and gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience of the Vietnamese people. 

Back to the city center for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we'll switch gears and head to District 1 for an easy walk among stunning French colonial architecture, breathing life into Saigon's heritage. We may start with the Reunification Palace, and continue to the City Hall, Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, and the Central Post Office. There is also time for a delightful coffee break in a retro apartment building, providing a unique perspective on Saigon's vibrant culture. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

Join us on a captivating day trip as we pick you up from your hotel at 8:00 a.m., embarking on a scenic 2.5-hour journey to the picturesque destination of Ben Tre. There, we'll set sail on a traditional wooden boat, meandering through the winding river, and immersing ourselves in the local culture. Discover a wide range of varied cottage industries, from coconut processing to brick making and mat weaving..., gaining a deep appreciation for the region's craftsmanship. Experience the charm of daily life as you explore the surroundings by bicycle and rowing sampan. 

A delicious lunch at a local restaurant will satisfy your taste buds with authentic flavors. As the day draws to a close, we'll return to Saigon, concluding this enriching adventure around 5 p.m., leaving you with cherished memories of the Mekong Delta's scenic beauty.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

Time will be on your own until our driver arrives and takes you to Tan Son Nhat airport, at a good time for boarding your departure flight. End of our service.

If you're looking to conclude your adventure with a relaxing beach getaway, you may consider these two enticing options: Mui Ne Beach and Phu Quoc Island. Mui Ne Beach, a mere 3-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, offers a diverse array of accommodations and an enchanting fusion of natural beauty, water-based activities, and tranquil relaxation. On the other hand, Phu Quoc, a tropical island accessible with just under an hour's flight from Saigon, is renowned for its unspoiled beaches, verdant scenery, and an assortment of attractions that cater to a wide range of traveler interests and preferences. Please feel free to contact our travel consultant for the best planning.