Real Vietnam 15 Days

Embark on a journey to the Mekong Delta today, exploring Ben Tre, where the versatile coconut holds immense significance. This fertile delta is renowned for its plentiful yields of tropical fruits and flowers, creating a picturesque landscape of canals. Upon arrival, board a private boat to navigate the intricate network of waterways and engage with locals in various cottage industries. As the day unfolds, retreat to a guesthouse nestled along the water, providing a serene setting for relaxation.

Accommodation: Homestay

Awaken to the early rhythms of the delta, relishing a straightforward breakfast before embarking on a boat journey and bus ride back to Ho Chi Minh City. Utilize some leisure time in the city to explore additional attractions or savor delectable street food treats. Today's itinerary includes a unique local encounter with university students known as "Ca Phe Bet," meaning 'coffee on the flat ground.' Immerse yourself in this urban tradition of enjoying coffee and a snack in one of the city's many parks. As the evening unfolds, board an overnight train headed for Hoi An, a historically rich town along the central coast. While the train accommodations are basic, the overnight journey provides an authentic experience and an opportunity to travel alongside the locals.

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Upon arrival in Danang during the early afternoon, embark on a minibus journey to Hoi An, taking approximately 1 hour. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An is undergoing meticulous restoration and preservation. Known as Faifo to early western traders, it served as a prominent international port in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The town retains its centuries-old ambiance, with some areas mirroring their appearance from over a hundred years ago. Hoi An is not only a historical gem but also a shopping haven, offering a diverse array of items such as original paintings, handcrafted woodwork, ceramics, embroidery, and lanterns. The town is renowned for its tailoring, providing a plethora of tailors and fabrics for selection. Bring a favorite garment or even just a picture, and skilled tailors can replicate it. Today's highlights include a guided walking tour of the Old Town, concluding with a delectable banh mi lunch. Subsequently, you have the freedom to explore Hoi An at your own pace.

Accommodation: Hotel

Discover the serene countryside of Hoi An on two wheels, immersing yourself in the authentic rural life of Vietnam. Join your guide on a cycling adventure through lush green rice paddies, across small creeks, and amidst quaint rural villages. Later in the day, you have the option to continue cycling or take a local bus to Cua Dai Beach, located near Hoi An center, for a relaxing afternoon by the beautiful South China Sea. Alternatively, if you're interested in exploring more of the Vietnamese countryside and visiting temples, you can opt for a My Son Cham day trip. The best part is, the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish.

Accommodation: Hotel

Leaving Hoi An behind, embark on a journey through the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, making a brief stop for photos to capture the scenic beauty (approximately 5 hours, including stops), before reaching the historic city of Hue. Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is steeped in the regal history of the country and presents a captivating blend of lively streets and serene surroundings. Your afternoon is free to explore at your leisure. Wander through Dong Ba Market, a bustling hub offering a wide array of goods. Explore the Imperial Citadel, including a visit to the Forbidden Purple City, which suffered significant damage during the Tet Offensive of the Vietnam War. In the evening, indulge in a traditional dinner hosted in a local home – these unique experiences off the usual path are the ones that leave lasting impressions.

Accommodation: Hotel

A full day of exploration awaits you in the enchanting city of Hue. Join your group for a morning street food adventure, delving into the local market to savor a delightful breakfast and interact with the vibrant traders. Later, consider embarking on a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, coupled with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda – an iconic symbol of Hue, rooted in Buddhist history since 1601. This active monastery holds a poignant exhibit, featuring a car once owned by a monk who, in 1963, self-immolated in protest against the mistreatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Alternatively, you may opt for an exciting motorbike tour, guided by a local expert, providing an immersive experience of the city's key attractions.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a bus journey to Quang Tri, where you have the option to visit the Hien Luong Bridge and Vinh Moc tunnels for a nominal fee. The Hien Luong Bridge holds historical significance as it once demarcated the division between North and South Vietnam during the war. Explore the extensive network of limestone tunnels in Vinh Moc, utilized by locals as shelters from bombardment. Continue your travels to Phong Nha, dedicating the afternoon to discover the beauty of the surroundings. Your accommodation is situated just outside Phong Nha Town, providing proximity to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, renowned for its captivating landscape featuring caves and subterranean rivers.

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Indulge in a leisurely day exploring the wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Boasting a remarkable history dating back 400 million years, this UNESCO World Heritage site stands as the oldest karst mountain range in Asia. Opt for a boat excursion through Phong Nha Cave or venture into the breathtaking Paradise Cave. If caves aren't your preference, consult with your guide about a kayaking escapade in Suoi Mooc. Alternatively, unwind with a coffee, relishing the scenic river vistas. Later in the day, return to Dong Hoi and board another sleeper train (approximately 8 pm to 6 am), becoming quite the expert on overnight train journeys by now.

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Arrive in Hanoi bright and early, around 5:30 am, and proceed to check in at your hotel. Secure a day room to freshen up and leave your belongings. The capital of Vietnam, with its population exceeding six million, captivates with its enchanting lakes, tree-lined boulevards, verdant public parks, and the bustling Old Quarter. This area serves as an architectural time capsule, adorned with ochre-hued buildings that evoke the ambiance of a 1930s provincial French town. As Vietnam strides forward in competition with its Southeast Asian counterparts, the stunning Hoan Kiem Lake mirrors the juxtaposition of contemporary office structures, ancient Buddhist temples, and the labyrinth of timeworn streets on its serene surface. Embark on a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter, accompanied by university students. Explore Dong Xuan Market, the largest wholesale market in northern Vietnam, and meander through the historic '36 streets,' where a plethora of shops offer everything from souvenirs to exquisite silk garments and intricately embroidered tablecloths. Your guide will highlight the unique architecture around Hoan Kiem Lake, share myths and legends associated with the area, and provide an opportunity to savor a delightful Vietnamese coffee along the way.

Accommodation: Hotel

Depart from Hanoi after a hearty breakfast at approximately 8 am, embarking on a scenic journey to Sung Village that spans about 4 hours. Nestled within Sung Village are approximately 70 families, predominantly of the Dzao ‘Tien’ ethnic group. Engaged in farming and forest plantation, these communities derive their primary livelihood from these activities. Delight in a homestay lunch upon arrival and then partake in an introductory stroll through the village. Following this orientation, embark on a brief trek of 2 kilometers to the enchanting Sung Cave, and discover a century-old tea plantation. The trek entails some steep and slippery sections, so it is advisable to wear suitable footwear for this adventure. Conclude the day with a handicraft workshop before returning to the homestay for a rejuvenating shower and a delicious dinner.

Accommodation: Homestay

Begin your day with an invigorating 10-kilometer (6.2 mi) trek from Sung Village to Da Bia, offering a deeper immersion into the picturesque Vietnamese highlands. The initial 8 km of the trek unfolds on mostly flat terrain along well-established buffalo tracks. The final 2 km feature a gradual incline, with approximately 300 m of steps to climb. However, the journey maintains a steady and relaxed pace. While traversing through local villages, encounter members of the Muong tribe and appreciate the monumental stone atop Da Bia Mountain. Pause for a delightful lunch at Da Bia before embarking on a scenic 1.5-hour boat cruise on the Hoa Binh hydropower reservoir. Upon reaching Thung Nai, transfer by bus to Hanoi, a journey lasting approximately 2 hours, and arrive around 6 pm. Enjoy the evening exploring the charms of Hanoi at your leisure. Consider savoring a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars in the Old Quarter.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a journey by bus and ferry, spanning approximately 3.5 hours, to reach Cat Ba Island, the largest island within the captivating Halong Bay UNESCO World Heritage area. Marvel at the iconic Vietnamese scenery where bright green waters are adorned with traditional junk boats, surrounded by thousands of limestone islands and formations. Cruise around Lan Ha Bay on a boat, engaging in a rice paper roll making class as you traverse the picturesque waters. Immerse yourself in this surreal landscape with a kayaking adventure, and for those keen on environmental stewardship, consider attaching a net to your kayak to assist local cleanup efforts and combat the rising issue of plastic waste in the bay. This initiative contributes to the locals' efforts and adds a meaningful touch to your experience. Spend the night on Cat Ba Island, where you can relax with a refreshing dip at one of the beaches and savor a cold beer.

Accommodation: Hotel

Begin your day in this idyllic setting, perhaps initiating the morning with a revitalizing swim. Take full advantage of the sun and sand, knowing that you'll be returning to Hanoi later in the afternoon via ferry and bus. Given its vast expanse, Hanoi offers a plethora of exploration opportunities. In the afternoon, consider venturing to the French Quarter to witness the European architectural influences scattered throughout certain parts of Hanoi. Alternatively, gather your companions and seek out a roadside stall to indulge in some delectable chargrilled meats or pho cuon (rice noodle rolls).

Accommodation: Hotel

The last day is free, and you can check out from the accommodation whenever you prefer. With Hanoi offering a multitude of attractions, consider enhancing your experience with an Urban Adventure. We recommend "Citadels, Karsts & Cycle," a tour that combines cycling through Hanoi with a scenic rowboat journey through caves and past rice paddies. Visit urbanadventures.com/destination/hanoi-tours for further details. If you wish to extend your stay in Hanoi, we can assist in arranging additional accommodation (subject to availability).