Vietnam Express Northbound 10 Days

Today, you will head south using a private minibus (approximately 3 hours) to explore the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, embark on a private boat and navigate the intricate waterways, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings of this fertile region often referred to as the 'rice bowl of Vietnam.' Disembark at Ben Tre, visit coconut gardens, and pause at a local home to taste tropical fruits and coconut jams before enjoying a paddling experience in sampans (small rowing boats). Explore the villages on a tuk-tuk tour, gaining insights into rural life and local livelihoods. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a delta-centric restaurant, savoring regional specialties like the renowned elephant ear fish. Conclude the day with a boat cruise along the major waterways of the delta to Ben Tre boat pier. After the cruise, return to Ho Chi Minh City by bus.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, bid farewell to Ho Chi Minh City and take a flight north to Danang (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). Upon arrival, embark on a 45-minute bus journey to Hoi An, with the breathtaking peaks of the Marble Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Once in Hoi An, your guide will lead you on a walking tour of this distinctive town, shaped by the cultural influences of Europe, China, and Vietnam over the years. A significant trading port since the 17th century, the town's architecture reflects diverse external influences, featuring pagodas and assembly halls scattered throughout. Despite its modest size, Hoi An exudes both vibrancy and tranquility. The tour will guide you through the streets undergoing restoration, offering a glimpse into the town's appearance over a century ago. As you traverse these historical streets with low-tiled buildings, you'll encounter a notable trader's former residence, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall, and a museum.

Accommodation: Hotel

Indulge in a leisurely day in the UNESCO-listed Hoi An. Explore the Central Market and peruse the vibrant street stalls offering an array of artworks, woodcraft, ceramics, lanterns, and more. Hoi An is renowned for its skilled tailors, capable of crafting exquisite items tailored to your preferences within a short timeframe. For the more adventurous, consider renting a bicycle to explore the picturesque surrounding countryside – an excellent way to gain insights into rural Vietnam. Additional optional activities include a day excursion to My Son Cham, an intricately designed World Heritage-listed temple reflecting the cultural richness of the Cham civilization, a scenic cruise along the Thu Bon River, or a visit to the nearby Cua Dai Beach.

Accommodation: Hotel

Depart from Hoi An today and traverse the captivating Hai Van Pass, a route that, while occasionally rugged, offers breathtaking panoramas overlooking Lang Co Beach. Pause for a quick photo break along the way before continuing your journey to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam (approximately 5 hours, including stops). Hue harbors the riches of Vietnam's royal history and boasts a compelling mix of lively streets and serene surroundings. Join your guide for an exploration of the Imperial Citadel, encompassing the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City within. This iconic site was heavily damaged during the Vietnam/American War, and the remnants and craters from bombs serve as poignant reminders of the devastation caused. During your free time, consider a visit to Dong Ba Market, where you can find locally crafted items, fresh produce, and enticing street delicacies.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on today's journey with a unique motorbike adventure. You will be accompanied by your personal driver, who will guide you through a scenic drive around the Imperial Citadel and then to the Thien Mu Pagoda, an unofficial emblem of Hue with origins dating back to 1601. This active Buddhist monastery holds historical significance, as evidenced by the car left by a monk who self-immolated in protest against the mistreatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Following this, ride to a special lunch venue at a convent or Buddhist monastery, indulging in a delectable vegetarian feast. Continue your motorbike exploration to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, situated amidst a serene landscape of a lake, frangipani bushes, and pine trees. As the day concludes, board an overnight train to Hanoi (approximately 12 hours).

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Upon early morning arrival in Hanoi, proceed to your hotel for check-in. Renowned for its picturesque lakes, tree-lined boulevards, public gardens, and the captivating Old Quarter, Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, offers a blend of modernity with its emerging cityscape, ancient Buddhist temples, and a maze of historic streets. Later in the day, embark on a guided walking tour that includes notable landmarks such as Ho Chi Minh's former stilt house and the Temple of Literature. During your leisure time, consider exploring the '36 Streets' in the historic Old Quarter, strolling around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, or visiting the Fine Arts Museum—an institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural richness of Vietnam's diverse ethnic communities.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a private minibus journey to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its pristine beauty (approximately 4 hours). The bay features emerald waters adorned with limestone islands and captivating caves. A cruise awaits to take you on an exploration of Surprise Cave and the mesmerizing rock formations. During the warmer months, you can engage in kayaking or take a refreshing swim near Ti Top Island. Access to Surprise Cave involves navigating staircases, and inside, the pathways may be a bit uneven and slippery. Onboard the ship, relish your meals in the dining room and bar, including delectable fresh seafood for both lunch and dinner. Spend the night beneath a starlit sky on the boat.

Accommodation: Overnight boat

Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Halong Bay and journey back to Hanoi by bus (approximately 3.5 hours). Arriving in Hanoi later in the afternoon, you'll have some leisure time to explore the city's attractions or indulge in last-minute shopping. Alternatively, you can unwind at a café or savor a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the quaint microbars in the Old Quarter. The evening culminates in a group farewell dinner at KOTO restaurant, an establishment dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through hospitality industry careers.

Accommodation: Hotel

Conclude your Vietnamese journey today. While there are no scheduled activities on the last day, you may opt to extend your adventure with a short tour, such as the 'Hanoi Street Food by Night' or 'Village Discovery by Bike' offered by our partners, Urban Adventures (visit urbanadventures.com for more details). Alternatively, you might want to explore the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton,' historically used for prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Another intriguing option is a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing captivating indoor and outdoor exhibits. If you wish to extend your stay, feel free to inquire about additional accommodation (subject to availability) at the time of booking.