Vietnam Insight 13 Days

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and privately transferred to your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. Spend the remainder of the day resting and recovering from your journey in the comfort of the legendary Sofitel Metropole.

Today offers a unique look into daily life in Hanoi. Begin early at Hoan Kiem Lake, joining locals in morning exercise rituals, followed by a steaming bowl of Pho and a traditional egg coffee in a hidden café. Continue with a stroll through the Old Quarter, visits to traditional tube houses, and a stop at Hoa Lo Prison to understand the city’s layered history.

For lunch, enjoy Bun Cha and crispy spring rolls before visiting the Temple of Literature—Vietnam’s first university. End your day like a local, sipping “Bia Hoi” on a small roadside stool paired with delicious street snacks.

Optional Experiences for Day 2:

• Handicraft Villages: Visit Duyen Thai (lacquerware), Bat Trang (ceramics), and Dong Ho (woodblock prints), plus But Thap Pagoda.
• Ky Son Village Retreat: Enjoy a countryside homestay at Moon Garden with hands-on cooking, herbal spa, and bicycle ride through rural Vietnam.

Drive to Ninh Binh, where limestone peaks and rice paddies frame a scenic river journey through Tam Coc’s three caves. From there, hop on a bicycle to ride toward Mua Cave, where a 500-step climb rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the countryside.

Travel to Cat Hai port for your two-night cruise with Heritage Cruises. Sail past Da Chong Islet and Gia Luan Lagoon before enjoying kayaking or swimming at Ba Trai Dao Beach. Enjoy a sunset cocktail, a fine dinner, and optional evening activities such as squid fishing or a cooking class on board.

Begin your day with a Vovinam martial arts session at sunrise before taking a speedboat to Viet Hai Village. Cycle through forest tunnels and rice fields, meet locals in their homes, then cruise onward to Bai Tu Long Bay, where kayaking and bamboo boating await. Return to the cruise for sunset and another elegant dinner.

Explore the Dark & Bright Cave by bamboo boat before returning to Hanoi to catch a flight to Danang. Upon arrival, transfer to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town filled with lantern-lit streets and timeless charm.

Experience rural life firsthand by visiting an organic vegetable farm, working the land with local farmers, and trying traditional fishing methods aboard a Thung Chai basket boat. In the afternoon, explore the historic streets of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant homes, and vibrant local markets.

Enjoy a day at leisure in Hoi An or select one of the following enriching experiences:

Options for Day 8:

• Cooking Class at Grandma’s House: Visit a local market, learn to make regional dishes, and enjoy a peaceful countryside lunch.
• My Son Sanctuary: Discover the ancient Champa ruins and witness a traditional Apsara dance performance.
• Hoi An Countryside by Vespa: Ride through rice paddies, meet local artisans, and visit a rice wine distillery before returning at sunset.

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and check in to your hotel before an exciting evening Vespa tour. Experience Saigon like a local—hop from buzzing food streets to hidden live music venues and lively bars, tasting signature southern dishes along the way.

Discover the diverse heritage of the city starting in Chinatown with stops at flower markets and Van Phat Pagoda. Visit the historic Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the grand Central Post Office. Enjoy lunch in a charming villa before a relaxing evening back at the hotel.

Cruise along the Mekong River through floating villages and cottage industries. Visit local workshops and enjoy a homestyle lunch at Ut Trinh’s house. Continue deep into the delta and check in to your hotel in Can Tho after visiting the Khmer-style Munir Ansay Pagoda.

Rise early to witness the bustling Cai Rang floating market—a true highlight of the Mekong Delta. Continue to a tropical fruit garden for a tasting and relaxation before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City. On the way, stop by the historic Vinh Trang Pagoda.

You’ll be transferred to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight. Safe travels and we hope you take with you unforgettable memories of your time in Vietnam.