Flavors & Heritage of Vietnam in 15 Days

Welcome to Hanoi! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our local driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. Your room will be available from 02:00 PM onwards. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Your Hanoi night adventure begins at 06:00 PM, when our Vespa team picks you up at your hotel. You’ll kick off the tour by tasting the iconic Bun cha at a local restaurant famously visited by President Obama. By 06:45 PM, ride through the elegant French Quarter to see the Hanoi Opera House, then head across the historic Long Bien Bridge for sweeping river views and a glimpse into local life along the Red River. At 07:30 PM, continue your journey through Hanoi’s mosaic-lined roads and over Chuong Duong Bridge to enjoy specialties like burned garlic goose and liver pâté goose at a favorite local spot. Next, around 08:00 PM, your Vespa weaves through narrow alleys where you’ll sample unique versions of Pho, including Pho Cuon and Pho Chien Phong—a true taste of Hanoi street food creativity. By 08:30 PM, cruise along peaceful West Lake and pass the illuminated Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum for a quick photo stop. Then, settle into a charming café by Train Street for Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee) and a chance to see the train pass just meters away. The evening wraps up at 09:15 PM in a lively local bar, where you can unwind with acoustic or jazz music alongside young Hanoians. You’ll return to your hotel by 10:00 PM, ending a night full of flavor, culture, and unforgettable vibes.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel and accompany you on a short walk to the nearest bus stop. From there, you’ll embark on a unique 60-minute sightseeing experience aboard a public city bus—a local way to explore Hanoi from a fresh perspective. As the bus winds through the city, you’ll pass several notable landmarks, including Frog Park, the Post Office, the Vietnam Military History Museum, the ancient Thang Long Citadel, Quan Thanh Temple, and the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda by West Lake. The ride concludes near the city center, where you’ll hop off to visit Hoa Lo Prison—infamously dubbed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs during the Vietnam War. Originally built by the French to house political prisoners, this somber site offers powerful insights into Vietnam’s complex colonial and wartime history. Around noon, enjoy lunch at a local or buffet-style restaurant (expenses not included), and recharge before continuing your afternoon adventures. After lunch, take a gentle walk through the Old Quarter, famous for its network of 36 bustling streets. Each one has a unique name, often reflecting the trades once practiced there—such as Tin Street and Bamboo Street, where traditional products are still sold today. End the day with a visit to Ngoc Son Temple, perched on a small island in the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake. This scenic temple is steeped in legend, telling the tale of an emperor, a magic sword, and a mythical turtle. After soaking in the lakeside views and temple stories, you’ll stroll back to your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.

Around 08:00 to 08:30 AM, a professional limousine driver from Peony Cruises picks you up at your hotel and takes you on a comfortable ride to Ha Long. By 12:00 noon, you’ll arrive at No.34, Tuan Chau Marina, Quang Ninh, where the friendly crew of Peony Cruises welcomes you onboard. At 12:30 PM, a support vessel will transfer you across the calm bay to board the luxurious Peony Cruise. During this short journey, the crew introduces the day’s itinerary. Around 01:00 PM, you’re greeted with fresh drinks and cool towels before being served a special lunch featuring fresh seafood and a variety of appetizing delicacies. As the cruise glides into Lan Ha Bay, one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays, you’ll enjoy this delicious meal while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. By 03:30 PM, the cruise anchors in the peaceful Tra Bau area, known for its unspoiled natural beauty and poetic limestone landscape. Here, you can kayak through hidden corners of the bay or relax in the emerald-green water. Alternatively, unwind in the Jacuzzi pool onboard. From 05:30 to 06:30 PM, guests are invited to join a fun cooking demonstration and learn how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. Or you may prefer heading up to the top deck to admire the golden sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Don’t miss the Happy Hour at the bar with a special “Buy One Get One Free” offer, an ideal time for sunset photography. At 07:30 PM, the onboard chef serves a romantic dinner crafted from local ingredients, offering you a flavorful culinary experience in an intimate setting. By 09:00 PM, the evening is yours to enjoy: sip exotic cocktails at the sky bar (additional cost), indulge in a spa treatment, stargaze from the deck, or try your luck with squid fishing off the main deck. It’s the perfect end to a perfect day on Lan Ha Bay.

Start your morning at 06:00 AM with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere as the sun rises over the bay. From 06:45 to 07:15 AM, enjoy a light breakfast while the cruise gently sails back to Gia Luan Jetty. (Please note that the breakfast time may vary slightly depending on the actual cruise schedule). At 07:30 AM, begin your excursion to the Cat Ba World Biosphere Reserve. After a 30-minute transfer from Gia Luan to Trung Trang, you’ll explore one of the island’s most fascinating caves. With thousands of striking stalactites, Trung Trang Cave offers not only dramatic natural beauty but also unique geological and ecological insights. By 09:30 AM, return to the main boat. It’s time to check out of your cabin—please place your luggage outside for collection. A farewell brunch will be served in the restaurant before disembarkation. If you’ve made any purchases at the bar, you can settle your bill at the restaurant desk. Between 10:30 and 11:00 AM, you’ll disembark from Peony Cruises at Block #34, Big Bay group terminal, Tuan Chau Marina. You’ll have time to relax and wait for your luggage before leaving the marina. Around 11:30 – 12:00 PM, your driver will be waiting at Tuan Chau Marina to transfer you back to Hanoi. Once you arrive, another driver will meet you in the Old Quarter and take you to the airport for your short flight to Hue. Upon landing in Hue, our local guide and car will be ready to greet you and escort you to your hotel, where you can check in and unwind after your journey.

After breakfast, begin your journey into Vietnam’s imperial past with a visit to the Imperial Citadel. As you step through the grand Ngo Mon Gate, you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as the Flag Tower, the Nine Holy Cannons, the Nine Dynastic Urns, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City (Tu Cam Thanh)—once reserved for royalty. Next, continue to Thien Mu Pagoda, known as the “Heavenly Lady Pagoda.” Founded in 1601, this historic site sits peacefully between the Perfume River and a pine forest. It’s one of the oldest and most picturesque religious buildings in the country. Enjoy lunch at your own expense before continuing your exploration in the afternoon. Your next stop is the tomb of King Tu Duc, a tranquil space that reflects the Emperor’s poetic soul and traditional Vietnamese aesthetics. End the day with a visit to the grand tomb of King Khai Dinh, whose resting place is an intriguing blend of Eastern design and Western architecture. Return to your hotel and spend the night in Hue.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning at your hotel, perfect for unwinding or taking in the peaceful surroundings. By noon, you can check out of your hotel. Our driver will meet you in the lobby and take you on a comfortable drive to Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa. Upon arrival, check in and settle into your serene lagoon-side retreat. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Let’s enjoy some free time at your resort until our driver arrives to take you to Lang Co Train Station, where you’ll board a scenic train bound for Da Nang—widely regarded as one of the most beautiful rail routes in Vietnam. Upon arrival at Da Nang Station, our guide and car will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Hoi An. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Meals are on your own. Overnight in Hoi An.

After breakfast, our guide will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you to Hai Scout Café, nestled in the charming old streets of Hoi An. There, you’ll meet the chef and begin your culinary adventure. Start with a visit to a bustling local market to handpick fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Next, board a boat for a leisurely cruise along the peaceful Thu Bon River en route to the Red Bridge Cooking School. Upon arrival, take a short tour through the school’s lush herb and vegetable garden. Then, step into the kitchen for a hands-on cooking lesson, where you’ll learn to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes blending both Vietnamese and Chinese influences. The chef will first demonstrate each dish, and then it’s your turn to recreate it. The session also includes a fun introduction to traditional Vietnamese food carving and plate presentation. After enjoying the dishes you’ve made for lunch, the boat will take you back to Hoi An town. Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient town’s iconic landmarks, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese assembly halls, historic Phung Hung house, and the atmospheric old port. Return to your hotel in the evening. Overnight in Hoi An.

After breakfast, you’ll have a full day at leisure to explore the enchanting town of Hoi An at your own pace. This charming destination in central Vietnam is famous for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and vibrant cultural heritage. You might want to start your morning with a relaxing visit to An Bang Beach, just a short ride from the town center. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with sun, sand, and sea. For lunch, treat yourself to Hoi An’s renowned local specialties. Be sure to try Cao Lau noodles, White Rose dumplings, or Com Ga (chicken rice) at one of the many cozy eateries or market stalls around town. As evening falls, don’t miss the magical transformation of Hoi An Ancient Town. The streets are lit up with colorful lanterns, creating a romantic, festive atmosphere. Shops and cafés stay open late, offering a lively yet laid-back experience. With most of Hoi An’s attractions within walking distance, you can easily tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s sightseeing, shopping, eating, or simply soaking in the town’s timeless beauty. Meals are on your own. Overnight at your hotel in Hoi An.

After breakfast, at 10:00 AM, our driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to Da Nang Airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s vibrant southern metropolis. Please note that this transfer is without a tour guide, but rest assured, all arrangements are handled for a smooth and worry-free journey. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, our local guide and driver will be waiting to greet you. They’ll assist with your luggage and escort you to your hotel in the city center for check-in. Please note: At Ho Chi Minh Airport, vehicles are required to park about 150 meters from the arrival gate. Our guide will be there to meet you and help you walk to the car. Thank you for your understanding regarding this short walk.

The tour begins with a visit to the Independence Palace, once the residence of the President of South Vietnam. Designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu, this historic site marks an important chapter in Vietnam’s modern history. Next, travelers will admire two beautiful French colonial landmarks: the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both iconic structures in downtown Saigon. Afterward, the group continues to the War Remnants Museum, where vivid exhibits tell powerful stories of the Vietnam War and the First Indochina War. A delicious local lunch is served before heading out to Cu Chi Tunnels, about 1.5 hours by bus. Upon arrival, guests will watch an introductory video explaining the construction and use of the tunnel system during the war. With a guide, you’ll then explore the surviving tunnel network, including living quarters, kitchens, storerooms, and hidden trapdoors. The tour offers insights into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese fighters who once lived underground. After the tour, enjoy a simple local snack of cassava and tea, just like the guerrilla fighters once did. Guests can then relax or, optionally, experience firing real guns at a nearby shooting range (at your own cost). The tour ends with a comfortable return to Ho Chi Minh City in the early evening. Dinner is by your arrangement.

Begin your day with pickup from Ben Tre Pier or Chet Say Pier, just 5 km from the town center. Hop on a boat and cruise along the Ben Tre River, one of the tributaries of the Mekong, where lush mangrove trees line the shore. As you glide past the bustling riverside market, witness local life unfold on the water—fishing boats and coconut-laden cargo vessels navigating the busy waterway. Your journey continues to a traditional brick-making site, where bricks are still crafted by hand. From there, turn onto the Cai Son canal and wind through dense coconut groves. Visit a coconut workshop to see each stage of processing done by hand, then stop at a local candy-making house to watch coconut sweets being prepared. Taste the fresh candies, enjoy tropical fruits, and relax with traditional folk music. Disembark for a short walk to a local family making sleep mats, then hop on a tuk-tuk to explore the peaceful countryside of Nhon Thanh and Thuan Dien villages. Enjoy a tranquil rowboat ride through the shaded canals of Cai Tac before stopping at a riverside restaurant for lunch. After your meal, return by boat to Chet Say Pier. Your guide and driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in HCMC.

After breakfast, feel free to relax or explore at your own pace. The hotel room is available for your use until 12:00 PM. At 03:00 PM, our driver (no guide) will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Enjoy the final moments of your trip at your leisure. Meals are on your own.