Vietnam Unseen
Vietnam - 15 Days
Private Journeys
Journey Details and Highlights
Vietnam Unseen
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel (early check-in not included). Begin your exploration of Hanoi, a city of lakes, shaded boulevards, French colonial buildings, and rich history. On a half-day city tour, visit Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh’s former residence, Presidential Palace (photo stop outside), One-Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple. Enjoy free time to shop and interact with locals.
Overnight in HanoiDay 2: Hanoi (B,L)
Start the day with a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes with fresh local ingredients under expert guidance. In the afternoon, hop on a vintage Jeep for a tour through Hanoi’s lively streets, iconic landmarks, and hidden neighborhoods, blending culinary and urban experiences.
Overnight in HanoiDay 3: Hanoi – Mai Chau (B,L,D)
Travel 3.5 hours through scenic mountain passes to Mai Chau Valley. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch featuring Muong and Thai ethnic-style dishes. Explore Pom Coong and Lac villages, Mo Luong Cave, or opt for an extended cycling and rock climbing tour. End the day with local Muong and Thai performances over dinner.
Overnight in Mai ChauDay 4: Mai Chau – Ninh Binh (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Hoa Binh Lake and Suoi Lon village. Enjoy a scenic boat ride among limestone peaks, fish farms, and bamboo rafts before continuing to Ninh Binh. Capture the peaceful countryside along the way.
Overnight in Ninh BinhDay 5: Ninh Binh (B)
Visit Hoa Lu, the 10th-century capital, exploring temples of Kings Dinh and Le. Continue with a serene boat trip through Trang An grottoes, a network of valleys, caves, and lush landscapes home to diverse flora and fauna, surrounded by towering mountains and grazing goats.
Overnight in Ninh BinhDay 6: Ninh Binh – Halong (B,L,D)
Transfer to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Board your cruise to immerse in the spectacular limestone formations and tranquil waters, enjoying onboard meals and the serene atmosphere.
Overnight on boardDay 7: Halong – Hanoi – Hue (B)
Continue cruising before disembarking late morning. Transfer to Hanoi airport for a flight to Hue (airfare not included). On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in HueDay 8: Hue (B)
Full-day tour by dragon boat along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, then visit the Imperial Citadel with a pedicab ride and the tombs of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Stop at a local village for traditional conical hat production.
Overnight in HueDay 9: Hue – Danang – Hoi An (B)
Drive via Hai Van Pass to Hoi An, stopping at the Cham Museum in Danang. Check in to your hotel, then explore a village to make traditional lanterns with local artisans.
Overnight in Hoi AnDay 10: Hoi An (B)
Walking tour of Hoi An Old Quarter, including the History Museum, Chinese Assembly Hall, Japanese Covered Bridge, and a historic house. Enjoy the vibrant streets and colorful lanterns. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Hoi AnDay 11: Hoi An (B)
Bicycle tour to a countryside farm for the Wet Rice Farmer experience. Ride a water buffalo, plough, sow, plant, and make rice flour, ending with a traditional pancake cooking class.
Overnight in Hoi AnDay 12: Hoi An – Danang – Saigon (B)
Transfer to Danang for a flight to Saigon (airfare not included). Half-day city tour visits Reunification Palace, Thien Hau Temple, Notre Dame Cathedral (outside view), and the Central Post Office.
Overnight in SaigonDay 13: Saigon – Mekong Delta (B,L,D)
Transfer to the Mekong Delta and board the Bassac Cruise. Sail along the Tien Giang River, exploring canals, local markets, and riverside life. Optional cycling tour in the countryside. Dinner served onboard.
Overnight on Bassac CruiseDay 14: Mekong Delta – Saigon (B/L/D)
Early morning cruise to Can Tho, followed by a local boat ride to Cai Rang Floating Market and a bamboo basket workshop. Return to Saigon for hotel transfer.
Overnight in SaigonDay 15: Departure (B)
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
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Included Services
All described sightseeing as in program above
Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle
Accommodation in hotels with daily breakfast
English-speaking local guides
Admission fees to indicated sights
Meals mentioned in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner) Domestic gov’t tax and service charge
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Excluded Services
International air tickets
Flights & visa fees
Travel Insurance in all kinds
Meals not mentioned in itinerary
Compulsory Meals
Drinks during Meals
Tip, drinks, any personal expenses
Early check-in and late check-out
