Hours Before Start
Pick-up from your hotel or private address to begin a full-day Hanoi experience. Visit a local market and explore Vietnamese culture through the daily life of locals.
Discover the iconic Long Bien Bridge, once named Paul Doumer Bridge. This engineering marvel from the French colonial era became a symbol of Hanoi’s resilience during the Vietnam War.
Continue to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit highlights such as the Doan Mon Gate, the base of Kinh Thien Palace, Hau Lau House, and the D67 Bunker — once the North Vietnamese Army headquarters. Then, explore the 18 Hoang Dieu Archaeological Complex before a short walk to Cua Bac Gate, offering a panoramic view of the Citadel.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, rich in Vietnamese yin-yang culinary philosophy.
Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucius and a symbol of education and morality through centuries. Proceed to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, one of Hanoi’s top museums, where stories of Vietnamese women’s roles in society are thoughtfully curated.
In the evening, embark on a Foodie Tour. Taste Hanoi’s signature dishes like green papaya salad, Bun Cha, Pho (beef or chicken), Banh Cuon, Banh Mi, and local draught beer. Learn about each dish’s ingredients and preparation while exploring historic sites in the Old Quarter, including the Heritage House and the Old City Gate.
Join a Mini Coffee Class to learn about the history of Vietnamese coffee, including Egg Coffee and Phin-style brewing, guided by a local barista.
After breakfast, depart to Chuong Village, known for its traditional conical hats (Non-La) — a cultural symbol of Vietnam for over 300 years. Learn how these hats are intricately handmade and cherished alongside the traditional Ao Dai dress.
Next, visit Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, famous since the French colonial era. Discover the colorful incense drying yards and learn the traditional production process. Enjoy the calm rural atmosphere and capture beautiful photos with locals and vibrant incense bundles.
Continue to Duong Lam Ancient Village and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Then cycle through the village to explore ancient gates, Mong Phu Communal House, Mia Pagoda (home to some of Vietnam’s oldest Buddha statues), and the temple dedicated to Giang Van Minh.
After exploring, return to Hanoi for an overnight stay.
Pick up from your hotel and depart for Mai Chau. Stop at the scenic Thung Khe Pass, one of Vietnam’s most picturesque mountain passes. Enjoy a special lunch of local cuisine upon arrival.
Cycle through stunning rice fields and limestone mountains, visiting peaceful villages like Pom Coong, Lac, Nhot, and Na Phon. Experience the lifestyle of the Thai ethnic minority, including a visit to Mrs. Mang’s home – an artisan who preserves traditional embroidery and weaving techniques.
In the afternoon, drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve via a scenic route through terraced fields. Check in and relax. Overnight in Pu Luong.
After breakfast and check-out, hike to remote villages such as Kho Muong and Uoi, offering stunning views of terraced fields and insight into rural life.
Visit Doi Cave (Bat Cave), the largest in Pu Luong, filled with limestone formations dating back 250 million years. Descend into its depths to marvel at the surreal stalactites and underground scenery.
Continue the adventure with a bike ride through valleys and rice fields. Enjoy a local lunch before departing for Ninh Binh, with a stop at traditional water wheels — hand-built bamboo structures used for irrigation.
Arrive in Tam Coc, check in, and enjoy free time. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
After breakfast, head to Hang Mua (Mua Cave) and climb to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain for a panoramic view over Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside.
Cycle around Tam Coc’s picturesque landscapes. Visit a local family living in a traditional three-generation Vietnamese home. Discover their daily life and enjoy a home-cooked lunch featuring authentic regional dishes.
After lunch, take a sampan boat trip along the Ngo Dong River to explore Tam Coc, known as “Halong Bay on land.” Pass through caves and rice paddies nestled among towering limestone karsts.
Conclude the day with a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Vietnam’s capital in the 10th century. Explore temples dedicated to King Dinh and learn about early Vietnamese dynasties.
Returning to your hotel in Ninh Binh for an overnight stay. Prepare for early departure the next day.
Depart early for Halong Bay after breakfast. Arrive at Halong International Cruise Port and board the Amazing Sails boat.
Cruise toward the remote areas of Bai Tu Long Bay, surrounded by majestic limestone islands. Enjoy lunch on board as you sail through breathtaking seascapes.
Stop at Vung Vieng Fishing Village, the largest floating village in Bai Tu Long. Explore by kayak or bamboo boat and learn about local life at the floating museum.
Visit Thien Canh Son Cave, known for its stunning karst formations and archaeological significance, with evidence of prehistoric sea-dwelling cultures.
Relax on a quiet beach and take in the spectacular sunset during a sunset tea break on the boat.
Return to the port and drive back to Hanoi. Drop-off at your hotel or private address. Tour concludes.
