Day 1: Hanoi Arrival - Night Food Tour
Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi!
Upon arrival, your guide or driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
Go on a culinary whirlwind this evening, sinking your teeth into the flavours of the North on a street food tour through the alleys of the Old Quarter. Meet your guide at your hotel, before strolling along to the local night market. Watch the bustle and array of goods on display, before setting off into the maze of alleys. Continue wandering and take in the sights of various curb side businesses that only open at night. Try some delicacies such as savoury steamed rice rolls with wood ear mushroom and pork, a classic Vietnamese sandwich, freshly grilled chicken wings, Xoi – the nation’s favourite sticky rice dish or other snacks that make your stomach rumble! See first-hand the city’s obsession with barbecues before finishing things off at a Bia Hoi Corner. Watch the commotion of this spot as it comes to life in the dark, while sipping a tall glass of cold local draft beer. An alternative option would be trying a refreshing finale of 'Hoa Qua Dam,' a medley of fresh tropical fruits served over shaved ice and drizzled with condensed milk.
Day 2: Hanoi - city tour, discover Pho secrets and try Egg Coffee
Start the morning the right way with a steaming bowl of Pho – Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup!
Our guide will meet you up in the morning and take you to a traditional Pho house where you can learn about the history of Pho before diving in a delicious bowl of this noodle soup. Next take a breezy cyclo ride through the Old Quarter’s 36 streets, named after the products that were sold from their shops.
Today, vendors on Tin and Bamboo Streets still sell the same wares.You will then visit the 11th century relic, the Temple of Literature, which was built in homage to the Chinese scholar Confucius. Lunch will be at KOTO, a social enterprise set up to support and train underprivileged young people in the hospitality industry.
For over 20 years, KOTO has proudly served guests from all around the world and important dignitaries from Bill Clinton and Prime Minister Julia Guillard to Margrethe II of Denmark. Enjoy their signature ‘Beef Betel Leaf wrapped in Lettuce with Noodles’ or ‘Roasted Pork Belly with Spices from Northeast of Vietnam’.
In the afternoon visit Museum of Ethnology that is widely acknowledged as the best in the country, with an extensive display dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority people. After that return to the Old Quarter and try the delicious Vietnamese egg coffee at one of the oldest coffee houses in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi Cooking Class - Learn how to make Bun Cha
For your authentic culinary experience, we partner with Rose Kitchen, the no.1 cooking class provider in Hanoi. Today you will be picked up at your hotel by shared transfer. Head straight to a local market to purchase ingredients for the class and learn about produce integral to Vietnamese cuisine. Learn to cook in a local luxurious villa of500m2 with a local chef. In the kitchen,you’ll prepare and cook authentic dishes, such as spring rolls, a salad of banana flowers, and ‘Bun Cha’ - barbecue pork with noodles. Once you’ve finished cooking, you’ll sit down to feast on the fruit of your labors, accompanied by free and unlimited local wine tasting, herbal tea, coffee, and mineral water.
Day 4: Hanoi - Mai Chau - ethnic encounters with delicious northern cuisine
Discover ethnic minority villages, lush green mountains, rural culture and delicious northern cuisine in Mai Chau. Upon arrival check in your hotel and relax.For lunch, why not try the famous ‘Met’ - this authentic way of dining allows you to enjoy a delightful spread of 6 or 7 dishes that truly represent the flavours of this region. Our favourites are Thit Ban Xien Nuong (Grilled Wild Boar) and Com Lam (Grilled Rice in Bamboo Tubes).In the afternoon, why not ride through the rice paddies field in Mai Chau valley which is dotted with stilt houses? The ride offers opportunities for taking photos, visiting local families and interacting with the locals.
Day 5: Mai Chau - Ninh Binh - Tam Coc River Tour
Morning at leisure. After breakfast embark on a journey of about 3 hours to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of the Dinh and Le dynasties dating back to the 11th century. Having been eroded over the millennia, the dilapidated ruins have nearly been absorbed by the spectacular scenery creating a mystical atmosphere that will be sure to titillate your imagination.Ninh Binh, is renowned not only for its breath-taking limestone karsts and shimmering rivers but also for its population of mountain goats that freely roam in the wild, nourishing themselves with medicinal plants and wild herbs and for lunch today you will try ‘Lemon Lime Goat’ which is steamed goat meat, expertly sliced into thin pieces and marinated in a mixture of zesty lime juice, fragrant lemongrass, and rich roasted sesame.
You will then continue to nearby Tam Coc, popularly known for its outstanding natural beauty and the scenic karst formations which contribute to its reputation as being the “Halong Bay on land”.Board a small boat and meander lazily down the peaceful river while passing through a series of caves. While enjoying the sounds of soaring birds overhead and paddling along the crystal-clear waters of the river, jagged limestone hills jutting skyward out of electric green rice paddies will be sure to bring out the photographer in you.
Finally, return to the pier, where your vehicle will be waiting for you for your transfer to your hotel in Ninh Binh.
Day 6: Ninh Binh - Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay
Depart from Ninh Binh and travel by road to Tuan Chau Island pier in Halong Bay. Set off on Heritage Cruise, where you’ll be pampered in style and comfort whilst meandering through the towering limestone cliffs and emerald green waters of Ha long Bay. Stop in Tra Bau, a secret hideaway in Lan Ha Bay that has beaches, caves and coves. You can try kayaking or simply swim in the clear waters of the bay.Back to your boat, enjoy life aboard the vessel or in your suite, and with cocktail in hand watch the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin.
In late afternoon part in a professional cooking demonstration before indulging in a luxurious dinner in the dining hall. Indulge in delicious seafood dishes that Ha Long is famous for and the cruise’s sommelier can also help you to choose your favourite wines from their wine cellar.
Spend the rest of the evening as you’d like: watch a movie in the dining area, relax on the deck with a cocktail, or go squid fishing under the cover of night.
Day 7: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi - fly to Hue
Rise with the sun and practice Vivonam on the sundeck while taking in majestic views of the surrounding bay and the cool sea breeze. Wrap up your experience with a bamboo boat trip to visit Dark and Bright Cave before cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Your guide and driver will take you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Hue.Upon arrival you will be taken to your hotel in Hue.
Day 8: Hue's Iconic Food Tour
Hue City, the former capital of Vietnam, offers a delightful culinary experience that is not to be missed. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture by indulging in its unique cuisine, particularly the delectable local dishes.
Exploring the local street food scene is a must-do activity for travellers in Hue City. Sample the diverse flavours and aromas that make Hue's cuisine so special.From iconic dishes like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and banh bot loc, banh nam and banh beo (Hue royal cakes) to the fragrant com hen (clam rice) and nem lui (lemongrass skewers), there are endless culinary delights to savour.As you embark on your culinary journey, you'll also have the opportunity to learn about the cultural significance behind each dish.
Many of the traditional recipes have been passed down through generations, offering a glimpse into the city's rich culinary heritage. Venture into the bustling streets, where local food vendors and stalls line the sidewalks, offering a wide array of flavours and textures.
Explore the Dong Ba Market, a vibrant hub of activity, and discover fresh produce, spices, and ingredients used in Hue's cuisine. Indulging in the local street food not only satisfies your taste buds but also allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hue City.Interact with friendly locals, observe the culinary techniques employed by street vendors, and embrace the lively ambiance of the city.
Day 9: Hue's half day royal tombs tour - drive to Hoi An
In the morning visit the ancient walled Citadel, a magnificent structure inspired by the Forbidden City in Beijing. Marvel at its grandeur and intricate architecture that reflects a fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese influences. Next, visit Khai Dinh tomb, a unique masterpiece that showcases an intriguing blend of traditional Chinese elements and modern Western aesthetics. As the most eccentric king of the Nguyen Dynasty, Khai Dinh embraced French colonialism and indulged in imported luxuries, leading to both admiration and criticism from nationalist leaders. Discover the fascinating stories and contradictions surrounding this extraordinary ruler as you explore his opulent tomb.After lunch at a local restaurant, you will be transferred to Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van pass.
Day 10: Hoi An full day city tour with Cam Thanh boat trip, try Hoi An's most loved food at a local restaurant
Begin your story of Hoi An, a former port that welcomed Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab merchants between the 16th to 18th centuries. Today it is renowned for its old quarter lined with two-storey Chinese shops, with elaborate carved wooden facades and terracotta tile roofs. And not forgetting expert tailor shops and delicious food! The tour includes stops at several famous landmarks. The first is Chua Ong Pagoda, dating back to 1653 and built in honor of the Chinese general Quan Cong, who is worshipped by many as a symbol of loyalty and justice. Next, pop into Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, to see the Jinshan Temple which is dedicated to the goddess of the sea and the protector of sailors. From there it’s a short walk to Tam Ky House, a 200 year old ancestral house and finally, stroll across the often photographed 17th century covered bridge built by Japanese craftsmen. The beautifully built bridge doubles as a temple and is a major landmark of Hoi An.
Your Vietnamese lunch today will be at a local restaurant. Why not try the refreshing pomelo salad, and some delicious Hoi An Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes)?
In the afternoon take a short boat trip down the river and visit a craft village where local artisans make ceramics. End your afternoon with a visit to the docks and see traditional fishing boats and the unusual round basket boats that ply the water.
Day 11: Hoi An - Street Eat Tour and the quest to find the best Banh Mi
Set off on a culinary adventure in Hoi An to discover the flavours and dishes that make this coastal town unique. Alongside an expert local guide, your journey introduces you to the stories behind Hoi An’s most iconic dishes at the town’s most famous eateries. Start your tour at a local restaurant famous for white rose dumplings, found exclusively in Hoi An. Enjoy these delicacies while marveling at the work that goes into them. The staff churn out up to 6000 of these dumplings every day and each one is as beautiful as the last. Your visit here includes a chance to try making a few of your own dumplings too!
Continue on to find the world's best Banh Mi “Vietnamese baguette” in Hoi An. Indulge in a warm and crusty baguette stuffed with grilled pork, fresh coriander, cucumber slices, tangy daikon, and a special sauce that remains a well-kept secret. Continue onward to sample grilled pork satay and visit the central market on way. Finally, the famous Cao Lau noodles or equally popular chicken rice. Wrap up the tour with a local Vietnamese coffee- the perfect ending to any meal.
In the evening take a boat ride from Bach Dang pier to see Hoi An Memories Show, perhaps Vietnam's most impressive art show. With 500 performers taking over the outdoor stage in their traditional ao dai costumes and modern staging techniques, the show is one spectacular visual performance that showcases the rich history, culture and identity of Hoi An.
Day 12: Hoi An - Saigon - Half Day Street Eat Tour
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight. Upon arrival, your guide or drive will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon enjoy a half day city tour. Start with a visit to the Reunification Palace, once a symbol of the South Vietnamese Government. It was here on 30 April 1975, that the war ended when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its gates. See the war room, the banquet hall and the presidential office with the unusual gifts which have been received. Then, continue to the Central Post Office, designed, and constructed by the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel, and take a moment to send a postcard! Just behind the post office is the Notre Dame Cathedral, an iconic Saigon landmark built in neo-Romanesque style by the French between 1863 and 1880. Today it’s a favoured backdrop for Vietnamese wedding photographs.
In the evening sink your teeth into the flavours of the South, from sampling freshly grilled beef wrapped in tender and peppery wild betel leaf to the classic Vietnamese sandwich and even a rice paper pizza! Snack on Goi Cuon or fresh spring rolls and some local shellfish - a rustic delicacy in Saigon.
Finish things off with a taste of one of the city’s most popular dishes, broken rice. In the past, it was the rejected rice grains that made up this ‘poor man’s rice dish’ however it is now enjoyed by many! The rice is served with roasted pork, pickled veggies and a steamed egg cake drizzled with spring onion oil. Once you’ve had your full of incredible dishes, continue onward to a local night spot for a drink and chat, as the city’s nocturnal side awaken.
Day 13: Ho Chi Minh city - Mekong Delta homestay - try the famous 'Canh Chua Ca'
Leave the bustle Ho Chi Minh City behind for Ben Tre - the coconut kingdom. Arrive at a charming homestay, hidden under hundreds of coconut palm trees, by the Mekong river. Enjoy a fresh coconut before checking in your room. Relax then join a family member foran introduction to local fishing. Return to the restaurant at the end of the afternoon and join in a cooking class of “Bánh xèo” – a southern Vietnamese delicacy. For dinner you will enjoy many local dishes that are typical of the Mekong region such as ‘sweet and sour fish soup’ or ‘stuffed bitter melon’.A lemongrass and ginger foot bath will be prepared in the evening so you can truly relax before bed.
Day 14: Ben Tre - Ho Chi Minh City - Depart
After breakfast, start cycling to the island of Oc on a concrete track, lined with fruit & coconut trees On the way, pass by a local market which will give you a glimpse of the local life. You will also visit a coconut basket factory and join the owner to learn about different braiding techniques (this activity is subject to availability).
Take a local ferry to reach a small island. Continue your ride along small paths and lush surroundings. Stop at a fish farm and learn of two of Vietnam’s most popular species of catfish: Ca Tra & CaBa Sa. Tour ends with a boat ride back to your homestay where you will be transferred back to Ho Chi Minh City for your departure flight.
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