Vietnam — From Hanoi to Saigon | Bespoke itinerary

01

Day 01

Day 1 — ARRIVAL IN HANOI

Arrival, meet by guide, transfer to hotel Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, after completing all customs formalities, please proceed to the exit gate and pick up your guide who will be waiting for you at the designated location in the segment

Private welcome, transfer to your riad and time to settle in or begin exploring.

01

Day 01

Day 1 — ARRIVAL IN HANOI

Arrival, meet by guide, transfer to hotel Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, after completing all customs formalities, please proceed to the exit gate and pick up your guide who will be waiting for you at the designated location in the segment

02

Day 02

Day 2 — HANOI

Visit the city's highlights (Temple of Literature, Museum of Ethnology, Old Quarter, water puppets) Explore the charming city of Hanoi, often called the "Paris of the East", with its ocher-yellow colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and picturesque lakes. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong note. Continue to the fascinating Museum of Ethnography (closed Mondays) which houses an extensive collection of traditional costumes and artifacts from Vietnam's 54 ethnic minority groups. Return to central Hanoi for a walking tour of the famous Old Quarter, known for its “36 Streets of 36 Goods,” named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date back to the 13th century. End the day by watching an entertaining water puppet show, a unique northern Vietnamese art form said to have originated in the flooded rice fields of the Red River Delta, where villagers entertained themselves by manipulating puppets above the water. The show uses colorful wooden puppets to depict scenes based on Vietnamese folklore.

Day 2 - Historic Marrakech Private guided visit of the medina, palaces, gardens and souks.

02

Day 02

Day 2 — HANOI

Visit the city's highlights (Temple of Literature, Museum of Ethnology, Old Quarter, water puppets) Explore the charming city of Hanoi, often called the "Paris of the East", with its ocher-yellow colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and picturesque lakes. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong note. Continue to the fascinating Museum of Ethnography (closed Mondays) which houses an extensive collection of traditional costumes and artifacts from Vietnam's 54 ethnic minority groups. Return to central Hanoi for a walking tour of the famous Old Quarter, known for its “36 Streets of 36 Goods,” named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date back to the 13th century. End the day by watching an entertaining water puppet show, a unique northern Vietnamese art form said to have originated in the flooded rice fields of the Red River Delta, where villagers entertained themselves by manipulating puppets above the water. The show uses colorful wooden puppets to depict scenes based on Vietnamese folklore.

03

Day 03

Day 3 — HANOI

Exploration of the hidden Hanoi, cafe, cathedral, old house, meeting with a local, and discovery of street food in the evening Transfer from your hotel to our meeting point, where you and your tour guide will explore the small streets and discover the daily life of the locals. First visit a vintage cafe for a delicious ca phe sua da (Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk) and watch the world go by, soaking up the sights and sounds of modern Hanoi. Invigorated by coffee, take a stroll past St. Joseph's Cathedral, an imposing neo-Gothic structure dating from 1886, making it Hanoi's oldest church. Next, head to a bustling alley, a popular place for locals to come and have breakfast with a multitude of vendors hawking food and vegetables. Nearby is an old French house, where we'll climb its rickety wooden staircase and meet a local who has lived in this relic of the past for decades. As a lifelong Hanoi, he has experienced the city's turbulent history and witnessed its rapid development. Take the opportunity to hear his story and listen to his unique perspective on this ancient city. End the tour with lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant which will bring you the most Hanoian experience. Eating on the street is a very typical activity for Hanoians and is an important part of the city's unique urban culture.

03

Day 03

Day 3 — HANOI

Exploration of the hidden Hanoi, cafe, cathedral, old house, meeting with a local, and discovery of street food in the evening Transfer from your hotel to our meeting point, where you and your tour guide will explore the small streets and discover the daily life of the locals. First visit a vintage cafe for a delicious ca phe sua da (Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk) and watch the world go by, soaking up the sights and sounds of modern Hanoi. Invigorated by coffee, take a stroll past St. Joseph's Cathedral, an imposing neo-Gothic structure dating from 1886, making it Hanoi's oldest church. Next, head to a bustling alley, a popular place for locals to come and have breakfast with a multitude of vendors hawking food and vegetables. Nearby is an old French house, where we'll climb its rickety wooden staircase and meet a local who has lived in this relic of the past for decades. As a lifelong Hanoi, he has experienced the city's turbulent history and witnessed its rapid development. Take the opportunity to hear his story and listen to his unique perspective on this ancient city. End the tour with lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant which will bring you the most Hanoian experience. Eating on the street is a very typical activity for Hanoians and is an important part of the city's unique urban culture.

04

Day 04

Day 4 — HANOI - TUAN CHAU PORT (Cruise)

Transfer to the bay, boarding, cruise in Lan Ha/Ha Long bay, visit to the village of Viet Hai, wellness activities. Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau/Hon Gai - 3D2N with guide (new route). Hanoi-Tuan Chau: 2.5 hours. Embark on a journey of a lifetime, meeting at the Heritage Line Lounge at Tuan Chau Marina. A short speedboat transfer takes you to your luxurious floating home, the starting point for exploring the wonders of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. Lunch is served in the elegant, almost 360-degree, light-filled dining room as we sail deeper into the bay. Relax on the terrace deck or private balcony, taking in the surreal scenery. Mooring near Cat Ba Island, we set foot on land towards the village of Viet Hai, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by jungle-covered mountains. Cycling through this valley offers wonderful insights into the isolated lives of local people. The community, surrounded by dense forests and mountains, and accessible only by sea, is self-sustaining, growing vegetables, fruits and fishing in the bay. Back at the ship, we sail to our overnight anchorage in Lan Ha Bay. Participate in a Vietnamese tea tasting, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or enjoy some time in the sauna located in the ship's expansive spa area.

04

Day 04

Day 4 — HANOI - TUAN CHAU PORT (Cruise)

Transfer to the bay, boarding, cruise in Lan Ha/Ha Long bay, visit to the village of Viet Hai, wellness activities. Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau/Hon Gai - 3D2N with guide (new route). Hanoi-Tuan Chau: 2.5 hours. Embark on a journey of a lifetime, meeting at the Heritage Line Lounge at Tuan Chau Marina. A short speedboat transfer takes you to your luxurious floating home, the starting point for exploring the wonders of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. Lunch is served in the elegant, almost 360-degree, light-filled dining room as we sail deeper into the bay. Relax on the terrace deck or private balcony, taking in the surreal scenery. Mooring near Cat Ba Island, we set foot on land towards the village of Viet Hai, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by jungle-covered mountains. Cycling through this valley offers wonderful insights into the isolated lives of local people. The community, surrounded by dense forests and mountains, and accessible only by sea, is self-sustaining, growing vegetables, fruits and fishing in the bay. Back at the ship, we sail to our overnight anchorage in Lan Ha Bay. Participate in a Vietnamese tea tasting, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or enjoy some time in the sauna located in the ship's expansive spa area.

05

Day 05

Day 5 — HA LONG BAY

Tai Chi, visit to Cat Ba National Park, hiking, free activities (swimming, spa), meditation Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck, offering a rejuvenating experience under the morning sun. During breakfast, the ship sails to the northern gateway to enter Cat Ba Island and its national park. A short, scenic bus ride takes you through the lush park to the starting point for a leisurely hike to get to know this designated biosphere reserve better. The park is home to approximately 1,500 plant species, 78 avian species, 20 reptile species and 32 mammal species, including deer, macaques and civets. Return to the ship for lunch and a pleasant time sailing finally reaching a secluded spot for afternoon activities. The afternoon is "at your own pace" with options including relaxing on a natural beach, swimming in the bay, spa treatments, steam bath or sauna on board. Make the most of this leisurely afternoon, creating lasting memories in Lan Ha Bay. At sunset, the ship sails to its anchorage for the night. Enjoy a multi-course dinner and join our guided “Singing Bowl Meditation” again or retire to your suite to relax on your private balcony.

05

Day 05

Day 5 — HA LONG BAY

Tai Chi, visit to Cat Ba National Park, hiking, free activities (swimming, spa), meditation Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck, offering a rejuvenating experience under the morning sun. During breakfast, the ship sails to the northern gateway to enter Cat Ba Island and its national park. A short, scenic bus ride takes you through the lush park to the starting point for a leisurely hike to get to know this designated biosphere reserve better. The park is home to approximately 1,500 plant species, 78 avian species, 20 reptile species and 32 mammal species, including deer, macaques and civets. Return to the ship for lunch and a pleasant time sailing finally reaching a secluded spot for afternoon activities. The afternoon is "at your own pace" with options including relaxing on a natural beach, swimming in the bay, spa treatments, steam bath or sauna on board. Make the most of this leisurely afternoon, creating lasting memories in Lan Ha Bay. At sunset, the ship sails to its anchorage for the night. Enjoy a multi-course dinner and join our guided “Singing Bowl Meditation” again or retire to your suite to relax on your private balcony.

06

Day 06

Day 6 — HA LONG BAY - DANANG - HOI AN

Signature

Tai Chi, kayaking at “Frog Lake”, transfer to Hanoi airport, flight to Danang, transfer to Hoi An Wake up early for a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck. Traditional Vietnamese coffee, tea and pastries await you in the dining room for a first bite. The ship sails to a place called "Frog Lake", a secluded area perfect for an energetic morning kayak tour. Explore this captivating seascape with cliffs extending vertically out of the water and feel a sense of freedom as you paddle through a maze of jade green water, rocks and living, tree-crowned islets. Back on board, we serve a hearty breakfast or brunch while sailing to the disembarkation point, from where we transfer you to the pier by speedboat. Savor the last moments of this unique journey while relaxing on the terrace deck. Upon arrival at Danang Airport, after completing all customs formalities, please proceed to the exit gate and collect your guide who will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel in Hoi An.

06

Day 06

Day 6 — HA LONG BAY - DANANG - HOI AN

Signature

Tai Chi, kayaking at “Frog Lake”, transfer to Hanoi airport, flight to Danang, transfer to Hoi An Wake up early for a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck. Traditional Vietnamese coffee, tea and pastries await you in the dining room for a first bite. The ship sails to a place called "Frog Lake", a secluded area perfect for an energetic morning kayak tour. Explore this captivating seascape with cliffs extending vertically out of the water and feel a sense of freedom as you paddle through a maze of jade green water, rocks and living, tree-crowned islets. Back on board, we serve a hearty breakfast or brunch while sailing to the disembarkation point, from where we transfer you to the pier by speedboat. Savor the last moments of this unique journey while relaxing on the terrace deck. Upon arrival at Danang Airport, after completing all customs formalities, please proceed to the exit gate and collect your guide who will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel in Hoi An.

07

Day 07

Day 7 — HOI AN

Signature

Ancient Town Walking Tour, Thu Bon River Cruise, Lantern Making Workshop Between the 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An, then known as "Faifo", was a thriving trading port, attracting Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish ships, among others. Today, this ancient World Heritage city is recognized for its well-preserved architecture, pedestrian-friendly streets and distinctive local cuisine, offering visitors a glimpse into its illustrious past. Hoi An's narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour of its many atmospheric sights, including: old merchant houses with Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architectural influences; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, first built in the 1590s by the Japanese community to connect them to Chinatowns across the creek; the assembly hall of the Chaozhou Chinese congregation with its intricate wood carvings; and the colorful market with stalls bursting with local delicacies, including silk, which can be transformed into fashionable clothing in a day or two. Enjoy a 1-hour boat ride on the Thu Bon River for a close-up view of fishing boats and countryside villages before returning to your hotel. The silk lantern, a simple but colorful craft, is now an essential part of Hoi An culture.

07

Day 07

Day 7 — HOI AN

Signature

Ancient Town Walking Tour, Thu Bon River Cruise, Lantern Making Workshop Between the 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An, then known as "Faifo", was a thriving trading port, attracting Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish ships, among others. Today, this ancient World Heritage city is recognized for its well-preserved architecture, pedestrian-friendly streets and distinctive local cuisine, offering visitors a glimpse into its illustrious past. Hoi An's narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour of its many atmospheric sights, including: old merchant houses with Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architectural influences; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, first built in the 1590s by the Japanese community to connect them to Chinatowns across the creek; the assembly hall of the Chaozhou Chinese congregation with its intricate wood carvings; and the colorful market with stalls bursting with local delicacies, including silk, which can be transformed into fashionable clothing in a day or two. Enjoy a 1-hour boat ride on the Thu Bon River for a close-up view of fishing boats and countryside villages before returning to your hotel. The silk lantern, a simple but colorful craft, is now an essential part of Hoi An culture.

08

Day 08

Day 8 — HOI AN

Modern culinary experience, "secret cocktails" experience in the old town. Discover the modern side of Hoi An's culinary scene through this unique culinary journey. Meet innovative chefs and passionate small business owners while learning sustainable, community-focused practices. This experience offers carefully selected modern and fusion Vietnamese dishes, drinks and homemade products, all prepared with fresh local ingredients and accompanied by meaningful stories. Travel through Hoi An and its peaceful surroundings, passing rice fields and picturesque landscapes between each stop. Highlights include a restaurant inspired by organic herbs from Tra Que village, a riverside cafe supporting people with disabilities, a rice paddy fermentation master's home, and a private gallery showcasing the art of Vietnam's ethnic minorities. Unlike a traditional food tour, this trip focuses on Hoi An's evolving culinary identity, offering bold flavor combinations and contemporary cultural perspectives. Led by a knowledgeable host, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's vibrant, eco-conscious food culture and the inspiring individuals who support it. Savor some of the city's best cocktails in hidden, centuries-old spaces nestled in the heart of the Old City.

08

Day 08

Day 8 — HOI AN

Modern culinary experience, "secret cocktails" experience in the old town. Discover the modern side of Hoi An's culinary scene through this unique culinary journey. Meet innovative chefs and passionate small business owners while learning sustainable, community-focused practices. This experience offers carefully selected modern and fusion Vietnamese dishes, drinks and homemade products, all prepared with fresh local ingredients and accompanied by meaningful stories. Travel through Hoi An and its peaceful surroundings, passing rice fields and picturesque landscapes between each stop. Highlights include a restaurant inspired by organic herbs from Tra Que village, a riverside cafe supporting people with disabilities, a rice paddy fermentation master's home, and a private gallery showcasing the art of Vietnam's ethnic minorities. Unlike a traditional food tour, this trip focuses on Hoi An's evolving culinary identity, offering bold flavor combinations and contemporary cultural perspectives. Led by a knowledgeable host, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's vibrant, eco-conscious food culture and the inspiring individuals who support it. Savor some of the city's best cocktails in hidden, centuries-old spaces nestled in the heart of the Old City.

09

Day 09

Day 9 — HOI AN - DA NANG / SAIGON

Transfer to Danang Airport, flight to Saigon, transfer to hotel Transfer from your hotel in Hoi An to Danang Airport (with guide). Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, after completing all customs formalities, please proceed to the exit gate and collect your guide who will meet you and transfer you to the hotel.

09

Day 09

Day 9 — HOI AN - DA NANG / SAIGON

Transfer to Danang Airport, flight to Saigon, transfer to hotel Transfer from your hotel in Hoi An to Danang Airport (with guide). Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, after completing all customs formalities, please proceed to the exit gate and collect your guide who will meet you and transfer you to the hotel.

10

Day 10

Day 10 — SAIGON

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour, City Highlights Tour From Saigon, take a 2-hour drive northwest to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a massive network of interconnected underground tunnels begun in 1948 to protect Viet Cong guerrillas from French air and ground raids. The tunnels also served as living quarters, communications and supply routes, and housed hospitals, food and weapons stores. Visiting the underground complexes will provide a better understanding of the history of the tunnels, the difficulties of life in the tunnels and Vietnamese resilience during combat. Return to Saigon. With more than eight million inhabitants and four million motorcycles, Saigon is truly a city that never sleeps. Despite its modernity, Saigon maintains a strong connection to the past and our city tour includes some of Saigon's most historic landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spiers built with materials imported from France (entry is only permitted when no services are being celebrated). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. A short drive will take you to the Old Presidential Palace, the seat of Saigon's government during the American War. Continue to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid perspective of the American War through Vietnamese eyes. DAY 11 — SAIGON “Hidden Secrets of Saigon” Tour (Alleyways, Market, Apartments, Bridge), and Night Photo Tour Embark on your journey to one of the narrowest and bustling alleys in Saigon, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the working class amidst the essence of old Saigon. Stroll through Chợ Cũ, the old market, where French colonial architecture mixes with Chinese influences, telling of the city's diverse heritage and the significant contributions of the Chinese community. Visit one of Saigon's oldest apartments, now a bustling hub for young entrepreneurs and creatives, witnessing how these structures are adapting to changing times. Enjoy a refreshing drink before passing the Bank of Indochina, a relic of Saigon's economic boom during the French colonial period, echoing tales of architectural grandeur. Cross Saigon's oldest pedestrian bridge, designed by the Eiffel Company, capturing the city's layered architectural styles. And, if the monuments make Saigon a heritage city, the people are those who make up the soul of Saigon. Meet a local artisan specializing in traditional carvings, showcasing Saigon's vibrant craft heritage. Conclude your visit at the majestic Gia Long Palace, where artifacts and exhibits delve into the city's history, including its struggle for independence. Explore the underground tunnels, adding intrigue to the tale of this historic site. DAY 12 — DEPARTURE FROM SAIGON Transfer from your accommodation to the airport (with guide). Regular check-out time is 12:00 p.m., late check-out is NOT included and is subject to availability.

10

Day 10

Day 10 — SAIGON

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour, City Highlights Tour From Saigon, take a 2-hour drive northwest to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a massive network of interconnected underground tunnels begun in 1948 to protect Viet Cong guerrillas from French air and ground raids. The tunnels also served as living quarters, communications and supply routes, and housed hospitals, food and weapons stores. Visiting the underground complexes will provide a better understanding of the history of the tunnels, the difficulties of life in the tunnels and Vietnamese resilience during combat. Return to Saigon. With more than eight million inhabitants and four million motorcycles, Saigon is truly a city that never sleeps. Despite its modernity, Saigon maintains a strong connection to the past and our city tour includes some of Saigon's most historic landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spiers built with materials imported from France (entry is only permitted when no services are being celebrated). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. A short drive will take you to the Old Presidential Palace, the seat of Saigon's government during the American War. Continue to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid perspective of the American War through Vietnamese eyes. DAY 11 — SAIGON “Hidden Secrets of Saigon” Tour (Alleyways, Market, Apartments, Bridge), and Night Photo Tour Embark on your journey to one of the narrowest and bustling alleys in Saigon, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the working class amidst the essence of old Saigon. Stroll through Chợ Cũ, the old market, where French colonial architecture mixes with Chinese influences, telling of the city's diverse heritage and the significant contributions of the Chinese community. Visit one of Saigon's oldest apartments, now a bustling hub for young entrepreneurs and creatives, witnessing how these structures are adapting to changing times. Enjoy a refreshing drink before passing the Bank of Indochina, a relic of Saigon's economic boom during the French colonial period, echoing tales of architectural grandeur. Cross Saigon's oldest pedestrian bridge, designed by the Eiffel Company, capturing the city's layered architectural styles. And, if the monuments make Saigon a heritage city, the people are those who make up the soul of Saigon. Meet a local artisan specializing in traditional carvings, showcasing Saigon's vibrant craft heritage. Conclude your visit at the majestic Gia Long Palace, where artifacts and exhibits delve into the city's history, including its struggle for independence. Explore the underground tunnels, adding intrigue to the tale of this historic site. DAY 12 — DEPARTURE FROM SAIGON Transfer from your accommodation to the airport (with guide). Regular check-out time is 12:00 p.m., late check-out is NOT included and is subject to availability.

Vietnam — From Hanoi to Saigon

Vietnam — From Hanoi to Saigon

Places chosen for their sense of place.

Accommodation 1 to be confirmed

Discover Vietnam

A starting point, never a package