Vietnam Cultural Discovery

BOOK NOW
alt
alt

13 Days · Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Lan Ha Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta

Private Journey by Ancient Orient Journeys

This immersive 13-day journey reveals Vietnam’s captivating beauty, history, and daily life — from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waterways of the Mekong Delta. Along the way, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, cruise through Lan Ha Bay, enjoy hands-on cultural experiences, and discover Vietnam’s rich cuisine and vibrant traditions through intimate encounters with locals.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to rest after your flight or begin exploring the charming Old Quarter nearby.

Day 2: A Day in the Life of Hanoi

Begin your morning like a local with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, where Hanoians gather to exercise. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of pho followed by Vietnamese egg coffee at a hidden café with city views.

Continue your day walking through the Old Quarter, visiting traditional tube houses, and learning how to bargain like a local. Explore Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology for insight into the country’s diverse cultures.
After a lunch of bun cha and spring rolls, visit the historic Temple of Literature before capping off the day at a street-side beer joint — sipping fresh “bia hoi” and chatting with locals.

Optional Experiences:

  • Visit Duong Lam Ancient Village for a rural cultural encounter
  • Spend a day at Moon Garden Homestay with a cooking class and village cycling tour
Day 3: Hoa Lu – Mua Cave – Van Long Nature Reserve

Head south to Ninh Binh and explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu with its remaining temples. Climb the 500 stone steps of Mua Cave for a panoramic view over Tam Coc’s karst landscape.
After lunch, enjoy a peaceful sampan ride through Van Long Nature Reserve — often called “Ha Long Bay on land” — home to rich wetland biodiversity and stunning limestone formations. Overnight at a tranquil resort near the reserve.

Day 4: Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Depart for Hai Phong and board your boutique cruise into the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay. Enjoy a gourmet lunch on board while cruising past towering limestone islets. In the afternoon, explore Bright Cave by bamboo boat and enjoy a swim in a secluded cove. Watch the sun set from the top deck, take advantage of Happy Hour, or book a relaxing spa treatment. Spend the night in a luxury balcony cabin aboard.

Day 5: Morning Kayak – Return to Hanoi – Fly to Hue

Start your day with Tai Chi on the sundeck before kayaking through the peaceful waters of Tra Bau. Visit a local floating fishing village and return to the ship for a cooking demo and brunch.
Disembark and transfer to Hanoi for your evening flight to Hue. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel for a restful night in this former imperial city.

Day 6: Hue Heritage & Vespa Food Tour

Cruise the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, then continue to the majestic Royal Tombs of Emperors Minh Mang and Khai Dinh, each reflecting distinct architectural styles. Enjoy a garden house visit before returning to your hotel.

In the evening, hop on a vintage Vespa and explore Hue’s vibrant culinary scene. Sample a wide variety of traditional dishes, from sizzling pancakes and lemongrass skewers to local noodles and sweet soups — all while discovering Hue by night.

Day 7: Imperial Citadel – Hai Van Pass – Hoi An

Start your day with a guided visit to the Imperial Citadel of Hue, once the seat of Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty. Explore the palaces, gates, and temples within the ancient walls.
After lunch, drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass to Danang, stopping at Cham Museum, then continue to the charming riverside town of Hoi An. In the afternoon, explore the Ancient Town with its iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant houses, and bustling market.

Day 8: Hoi An: Farmer to Fisherman Experience

Start your morning in the countryside, visiting vegetable gardens and joining local farmers in their daily work. Continue to the river where you’ll experience traditional net fishing and paddle a basket boat through coconut palm groves.

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, then return to Hoi An for more exploration of its ancient streets and cultural landmarks.

Day 9: Hoi An Free Day or Optional Excursions

Enjoy a free day at leisure or choose from two optional experiences:

  • Vespa Countryside Adventure: Ride through rural villages, meet artisans, cross bamboo bridges and enjoy a seafood lunch by the beach.
  • My Son Sanctuary: Visit the UNESCO-listed Champa ruins, explore over 65 Hindu temples and towers, and witness a traditional Apsara dance performance.
Day 10: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Spend your morning at leisure in Hoi An before transferring to Danang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city.

Day 11: Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon Night Street Food

Travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels to explore this remarkable underground network used during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, return to the city and visit key sites including the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market.

In the evening, discover Saigon’s local nightlife and street food scene. Stop at hidden eateries for seafood, Banh Xeo, and traditional desserts while driving through lively neighborhoods.

Day 12: Mekong Delta Exploration

Drive to Vinh Long and embark on a boat trip through the canals of Cai Be. Visit floating markets and traditional craft workshops. Continue to Tan Phong Island for a peaceful sampan ride through lush waterways and a chance to meet local farmers.

Cycle through the village or enjoy a musical performance in a garden before returning to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

Day 13: Departure

Enjoy your final morning at leisure before transferring to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your international departure. We wish you a pleasant journey home and hope to welcome you again!

Embark on inspiring journeys today!

Book your tour now and make your travel dreams come true. With our dedicated customer service, diverse and carefully crafted itineraries, you’re guaranteed a seamless, memorable, and worry-free experience every step of the way.
SEND A REQUEST