Taste of Vietnam 12 Days

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon landing at Ho Chi Minh City airport, also known as Saigon, you’ll receive a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel. In the evening, embark on a unique culinary adventure, Saigon-style. Hop onto a Vespa for a one-of-a-kind night-time excursion and street food exploration. This Vespa tour offers an immersive way to experience the sights, scents, textures, and flavors of Saigon after dark. Navigate bustling streets and hidden alleys, discovering local spots known only to the insiders.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Embark on a culinary adventure by visiting a local Saigonese home, where you’ll immerse yourself in their way of life and cooking techniques. Begin your day at a bustling suburban market with your host, who will introduce you to their favorite dishes. Afterward, return to the house to prepare a delicious lunch together. In the afternoon, explore iconic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, formerly the Saigon government’s headquarters from 1954 to 1975, as well as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and City People’s Committee.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Embark to My Tho, a 1.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, hop aboard a boat for a brief Mekong River cruise. Disembark on a charming islet to explore orchards and a local farmers’ village, witnessing the creation of regional delicacies and experiencing the thriving life along the Delta. Enjoy lunch on the islet or in town before returning to Ho Chi Minh City via overland transfer. In the evening, beer enthusiasts are in for a treat as you embark on a Vespa tour, cruising through Saigon while sampling some of Vietnam’s most renowned craft beers. Experience the city’s vibrant craft beer scene with visits to four of the country’s top breweries, each offering a variety of brews paired with delicious bites.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Begin your day with a morning flight to Da Nang in central Vietnam, followed by a transfer to the enchanting ancient port town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a captivating walking tour to discover the old town nestled along the banks of the Thu Bon River. Explore historical landmarks including the iconic Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Communal House, the Tin Hau Temple, and well-preserved ancient houses. In the evening, savor the distinctive flavors of central Vietnam with a delectable dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner.
Overnight in Hoian.

Start your day with a visit to Hoi An‘s vibrant market, where you’ll immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and even shop for ingredients for your upcoming cooking class. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on cooking experience in the school’s garden, guided by a master chef. Lunch is a delicious result. In the afternoon, unwind at the beach or explore Hoi An’s art galleries and silk shops. In the evening, wander through Hoi An’s charming streets lit by enchanting lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere for your exploration.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Overnight in Hoian.

After breakfast, your private guide will pick you up for a leisurely biking tour to the peaceful island of Cam Kim. This car-free island is perfect for cycling excursions.

(Note: you don’t know how to ride bicycles, please use our scooter “XE OM” services with little additional charges)

After being collected from your hotel, a short bicycle competency test will be given. The first part starts with 13km (8 miles) cycling on small paved paths. Peddle your way through palm forests, across bridges and fields of water buffalo. Ride along country lanes at a peaceful pace viewing local life and pause to see farmers toiling in their rice fields using centuries of farming practices.

Upon arrival at Tra Nhieu, you will set out to explore this beautiful rural village. Paddle around the village and stop to see the local people make sleeping mats by hand. Later you will be welcomed by a local family where you will be served a delicious home-hosted lunch. Take a chance to talk to the family hosts and learn about their lifestyles and tradition.

Afternoon
After lunch, you will visit a fishing hamlet and have fun with a fisherman by trying to cast a fishing-net for fish, shrimp, and crab. After that continue to cycle for another 3km (1,8 miles) to the other side of the island where you will visit Kim Bong carpentry village, renowned for shipbuilding and traditional woodworking products. Nestled along the river Kim Bong is home to generations of craftsmen from all over Vietnam who moved to Hoi An centuries ago when it was a bustling trade port.

At the village take your time to wander around the many workshops, chat up the friendly craftsmen and simply admire their age-old art. Continue to visit several local homes to observe how people make rice wine, rice noodles, and rice paper.

At the end of the tour, ride back to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast.
Overnight in Hoian.

Today, you’ll travel from Hoian to Danang airport for your flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. In the evening, savor an authentic Hanoi experience by riding a pillion on vintage Vespas through the city’s narrow streets. Immerse yourself in the sensational street food culture, with stops to enjoy the vibrant evening food scene alongside locals while also gaining insights into local culture and traditions.

Meals included: Breakfast.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a morning tour that includes a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where President Ho Chi Minh’s body is at rest (please note that it’s closed in the afternoon and during September and October). Explore further with visits to Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts, the One Pillar Pagoda, and Tran Quoc Pagoda. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore Hanoi at your own pace. In the evening, treat yourself to traditional entertainment with a water puppet show, followed by a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Following breakfast at the hotel, check out and embark on a 2-2.5 hour highway drive to reach Halong Bay. Upon arrival, transfer to your cruise, leaving the city’s hustle and bustle behind. You’ll be greeted with a delectable seafood lunch on board. After lunch, explore the mesmerizing limestone caves scattered throughout the bay, swim, and sunbathe before dinner. Delight in another sumptuous seafood feast, and for those who enjoy it, there’s an option for night fishing. You’ll spend the night on board, immersed in the tranquility of Halong Bay.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight in Halong Bay.

Begin your day early with complimentary tea and coffee served on the sundeck, followed by an optional Tai Chi class for those interested. Savor a wholesome breakfast while your boat gracefully navigates through the unique limestone rock formations, heading back to Ha Long City. Upon disembarking, you’ll have a return transfer to Hanoi, where the remainder of your day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast, Brunch.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Today is your own pace to relax and explore ancient Hanoi.

Meals included: Breakfast.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Enjoy your final moments with some free time at your leisure, whether for last-minute shopping or relaxation, before your transfer to Hanoi airport for your departure.