The beauty of Northern & Central Vietnam 8 Days 7 Nights

Upon arrival in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. (Check-in standard time: from 14:00). Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi or relaxing at your hotel.

Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi

Meals: No

Breakfast at the hotel. Meet our tour guide at the scheduled time and start to explore Hanoi – the charming capital of Vietnam. Our morning journey begins with visits to iconic landmarks, including the One Pillar Pagoda. We’ll then explore the outer part of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a monument honoring the esteemed country leader Ho Chi Minh, affectionately known as Bác Hồ (Uncle Hồ) by the Vietnamese people. Our tour continues with visits to the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House. Next, we’ll delve into the tranquility of the Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám (Temple of Literature), a symbol of Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage, originally built in 1070 as a Confucian temple and later housing the country’s first university.

Lunch in a local restaurant.

Our afternoon adventures take us to the nearby Tran Quoc Pagoda, the city’s oldest pagoda dating back to the 6th century. Following our visit, we’ll enjoy a traditional cyclo in the vibrant ambiance of the Old Quarter, renowned for its labyrinthine streets, bustling markets, and ancient temples. Finally, take a leisurely break at a coffee shop, savoring the unique flavors of egg coffee or fresh juice before coming back to your hotel.

Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we embark on a journey to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, being formed over 500 million years ago. Upon arrival at the boat pier, you’ll be greeted by the cruise members with a refreshing drink at the lounge while awaiting embarkation. A small sampan will transport you to the main cruise, where you’ll complete the check-in process, receive a safety briefing, and get a brief introduction to the cruise itinerary. Enjoy a delectable lunch onboard as the cruise glides past picturesque islands and towering rock formations, allowing you to marvel at the breathtaking scenery. After lunch, take a short rest before participating in the afternoon activities offered by the cruise, which could include visiting caves, fishing villages, kayaking, or swimming at a quiet beach, depending on the cruise’s program. Dinner will be served at the cruise’s restaurant while it anchors in a safe and serene area for the night.

Overnight onboard the cruise

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start your day with an early morning Tai Chi class on the sundeck, allowing yourself to embrace a meditative state through gentle movements and controlled breathing. Witness the tranquil beauty of the bay as the sun slowly ascends behind the limestone cliffs, casting a serene glow over the horizon. Continue with the morning activities outlined in the cruise program or bask in the sun’s warmth on the sundeck. Indulge in a leisurely brunch aboard the cruise, savoring each bite as you glide past majestic rock formations on your journey back to the dock. Upon disembarking, transfer by sampan to the pier, where transportation awaits to whisk you back to Hanoi Airport (approximately 2.5 hours). Board your flight to Hue. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Hue.

Overnight at the hotel in Hue

Meals: Brunch

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we embark on a journey to explore Hue City, once the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled the country from 1802 to 1945. Our journey into the past begins with a visit to the complex of Hue Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Our first stop is the Hue Imperial City, spanning 520 hectares. It is divided into three main sections: Kinh Thành Huế (Hue Citadel), a square fortress enclosing the entire compound; Đại Nội (Royal City), serving as the administrative center where the kings and their entourage conducted their affairs; and Tử Cấm Thành (Forbidden Purple City), a private enclave reserved exclusively for emperors and royal families. After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll venture to the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, an architectural marvel blending Western influences with traditional Vietnamese design. Reigning from 1916 to 1925, Emperor Khai Dinh’s elaborate tomb stands as a testament to his era’s cultural shifts and influences. After that, we’ll visit the An Hien Garden House, an architectural gem reflecting the grace and tranquility of Vietnamese culture. Finally, we’ll venture into the bustling Dong Ba market, where you can immerse yourself in vibrant local culture. Known as one of the city’s busiest markets, it boasts an array of fresh produce, tropical fruits, and local delicacies.

Overnight at the hotel in Hue

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, we’ll explore the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic landmark nestled on the banks of the Perfume River (Song Huong). After breakfast, we’ll set off for Hoi An Ancient Town. passing by the Hai Van Pass, celebrated as one of the world’s top ten most beautiful coastal roads. Stop at the Son Tra Peninsula to visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the azure sea and pristine sandy beaches below. Upon arrival to Hoi An, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant

In the afternoon, we’ll venture into Hoi An’s Old Quarter – the heart of the ancient town – to visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge dating back over 400 years. Explore the ornate Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (Fujian Assembly Hall) – a 300-year-old Chinese congregation known for its ancient and precious architecture. Visit the Tan Ky Old House – a residence spanning 7 generations that once served as a trading hub for local and foreign merchants during the 18th and 19th centuries. Stop at The Museum of Sa Huynh Culture to learn about the cultural heritage of the Sa Huynh civilization – considered the first settlers of the port town, who engaged in trade with countries in Southeast Asia, South India, and China. In the late afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Thu Bon River, offering picturesque views of quaint villages along its banks.

Overnight at the hotel in Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to explore the city at your leisure. You can opt for a half-day excursion to My Son Sanctuary, Tra Que Village, or enjoy the tranquil beach of An Bang.

Overnight at the hotel in Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

Meals: Breakfast