Majestic Vietnam North to Central

Itinerary

B(breakfast), L(lunch), D(dinner)

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1. 
   Day 01

   Hanoi - Arrival

   

   Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi – The Capital City of Vietnam!
   Be greeted by our local guide and transferred to your hotel to check-in. Today will be free easy day. Overnight in Hanoi. 
   Please note!
   -    Hotel check-in time is around 14.00
   -    Depend on your arrival time, the program will be adjusted accordingly. 
    

2. 
   Day 02

   Hanoi (B)

   

   After breakfast, visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, and his stilt house set in peaceful gardens. Nearby is the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi built in 1049. Continue to explore the Tran Quoc Pagoda, admiring its intricate architecture, ancient statues, and serene surroundings by the West Lake.
   In the afternoon, stop to visit Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, dating back to 1070, with tranquil gardens and historic architecture. Then drop off the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy a walking through Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter – a maze of 36 ancient streets once known for their specialty trades. Stop for coffee at a hidden local café before returning to the hotel. Evening at your leisure. Overnight in Hanoi.

   Optional tour #1: STREETFOOD TOUR BY VESPA 
   Experience the vibrant taste of Hanoi on a thrilling 3-hour Vespa street food tour, weaving through bustling streets and hidden local alleys. Riding pillion behind skilled local drivers, you’ll make stops at authentic eateries to savor Hanoi’s signature dishes like bún chả, freshly made bánh cuốn, crispy spring rolls, and other beloved local bites. Along the way, cruise past landmarks like the historic Long Bien Bridge and soak in the lively evening atmosphere of the capital. To wrap up the journey, unwind with a refreshing local beer or a sweet treat like traditional chè, leaving you with a satisfying taste of Hanoi’s street food soul.
   Services included: English speaking guide, Vespa with experience driver, helmet per person, rain coat, water during tour, food tour surrounding Hanoi central
   Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs; any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program

   Optional tour #2: THE QUINTESSENCE OF TONKIN (by shuttle bus)
   Duration: 45 minutes
   Available destination: Da Phuc Village, Sai Son Commune, Quoc Oai District, Hanoi, Vietnam
   Schedule: 19h00 – only Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday
   Pick up & Drop off points by shutte bus: Thang Long Imperial Citadel (Add 19c Hoang Dieu street)
   Pick up time by shuttle bus: 16h00 – 16h30 PM, guests please arrive 5-10 mins before pick up time. 
   Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMQBWPsFUFo 
   Itinerary:
   Pick up from hotel, transfer to Da Phuc Village, Sai Son Commune, Quoc Oai District, Hanoi, Vietnam where is known for its thousand year old villages, such as Duong Lam which retains a collection of vernacular architecture with buildings and temples built using laterite bricks…
   Here show information may you need to know:
   Vietnam's Outdoor Cultural Spectacle
   •    Explores the deep-rooted culture of northern Vietnam
   •    Drawing upon the rich history of the Red River Delta provinces
   •    Sharing northern Vietnamese tradition from a contemporary perspective
   The Story immerges in history and culture 
   •    The stage occupies a space close to Chua Thay, one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam
   •    The audience watches the performance to the back drop of the pagoda
   •    Performance can be combined with a visit to Chua Thay (also Chua Tay Phuong, Ba Vi, Duong Lam, and surrounding countryside).
   Real People, Real Performer 
   These local farmers know the story of countryside dwelling – farming, fishing, and festivals – better than anyone. It is their story to tell…”
   •    The performance does not employ professional performers
   •    All the performers are locals, trained specifically for the spectacle
   •    Each performer has undergone a rigorous 1-year training program
   Services included: Shared shuttle bus, entrance or zone fee, show tickets 
   Services excluded: English speaking guide, personal expense, services which not mention in program, tips for guide and driver
    

3. 
   Day 03

   Hanoi – Pu Luong (B)

   

   Hanoi – Pu Luong (~155km): 4 - 4.30 hrs scenic drive 
   Trek route: 3.5 – 4km approx.., easy level 
   After checking out, depart for Pu Luong Nature Reserve – a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Thanh Hoa province. The journey takes you along scenic winding roads and through charming rural villages, gradually leading you away from the bustle of the city into a peaceful world of terraced rice fields, lush forests, and the rich cultural traditions of the Thai and Muong ethnic communities.
   Upon arrival, fresh up and get ready for an amazing discovery rural areas. We drive to Dong Dieng Village (~ 7km - 20mins). Drop off at starting point then trek down from Dong Dieng Village through the most picturesque terraced fields to Kho Muong Village. Observing how local guide works quickly and without hesitation, able to recognize each plant and herb instantaneously, and try your luck at identifying the flora, with a little help from your guide. Every gatherer in the tribe can recognize a minimum of 20 - 30 different herbs and plant species, and some even be able to name at least 50! Afterwards, head back to the Thai traditional stilt house at Kho Muong village and see how the herbs are prepared for traditional herbal foot bathing. They are known for their therapeutic benefits – such as, helping with circulation issues and skin conditions, and relieving symptoms such as migraines and fevers. Enjoy sunset on mountain then back to your retreat/homestay in the late of afternoon. Overnight in Pu Luong. 
    

4. 
   Day 04

   Pu Luong (B)

   

   Today is a free day for you to relax at your own pace – whether it's unwinding amidst nature, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, or choosing one of our optional tours to explore more of the local culture and landscape. Overnight in Pu Luong. 

   Optional tour #3: BIKING AND TREKKING THROUGH VILLAGES WITH LUNCH AT LOCAL FAMILY 
   Trek route: 4-6km approx., medium level
   After breakfast, start with a scenic hike to Uoi Village, taking in the lush landscapes and vibrant local life along the way. From there, continue to Lan Village, where bicycles will be ready for the next leg of the journey. Enjoy a leisurely cycle ride through serene countryside roads until you reach Hieu Village and the refreshing Hieu Waterfall, a perfect spot to take in the beauty of the area. Afterward, savor a traditional lunch at a local home, where you’ll experience authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Cycle back to where you start then hop on your bus back to homestay. Overnight in Pu Luong.
   Services included: English speaking guide, transportation, bike per person, water during tour, entrance fee if any, lunch at local family 
   Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs; any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program
   Please note!  
   -    For guests who do not wish to ride a bike, an alternative can be arranged, such as taking a local motorbike scooter with a driver at surcharge  USD 4 per person – to be paid to local guide on site
    

5. 
   Day 05

   Pu Luong – Ninh Binh (B)

   

   Pu Luong – Ninh Binh (~128km): 3 hrs scenic drive  
   After breakfast and check-out, travel onward to Ninh Binh – a land of striking limestone karsts, tranquil rivers, and lush countryside, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." The scenic drive offers a peaceful transition from the mountains to the timeless charm of northern Vietnam’s countryside.
   Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, check in hotel then enjoy free time at your leisure to explore the area at your own pace. Overnight in Ninh Binh.

   Optional tour #4: TAM COC & MUA CAVE, BIKING THROUGH RICE FIELDS 
   Transfer to Tam Coc jetty and cycle eight kilometres, approximately one hour, along the Boi River to Van Long Nature Reserve, on small rowing boats, crossing rice paddies, rocky peaks, stretches of water. In the afternoon – Hike up the 500 stone steps to the Mua Cave viewpoint, one of the best panoramic spots in Ninh Binh. Capture the golden hour and sweeping views over Tam Coc’s rice fields and river. If time permits, hop on a bicycle and begin a scenic ride through peaceful rice fields. Depending on the season, you may witness lush green paddies, golden harvests, or farmers at work – offering a true glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. Afterwards, transfer back to hotel. 
   Services included: English speaking guide, transportation, bike per person, water during tour, entrance/zone fee if any, boat tour (2-3 pax per boat) 
   Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs; any meals, any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program
   Please note!  
   -    For guests who do not wish to ride a bike, an alternative can be arranged, such as taking a local motorbike scooter with a driver at surcharge  USD 4 per person – to be paid to local guide on site
    

6. 
   Day 06

   Ninh Binh – Ha Long / Lan Ha Bay overnight on cruise (B/L/D)

   

   Ninh Binh – Ha Long (~206kms): 3hrs scenic drive 
   After breakfast and check out hotel, leave Ninh Binh then we journey east to Halong Bay, the pride of the Gulf of Tonkin, a Natural World Heritage as designated by UNESCO in 1994 and 2006. Upon arrival in Halong, picked up and transferred by tender boat to Ha Long/ Lan Ha Bay where you will check in the overnight cruise to discover the magnificent beauty of this marvelous bay, created by thousands odd-shaped limestone rocks and karst grottoes. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board while the cruise sailing among the breathtaking scenery, approaching the islets in close distance. Post lunch we will have a short rest before joining the cruise’s activities like swimming or kayaking. Late afternoon, return to the cruise to join cooking demonstration before having dinner. Evening attend activities on the boat or relax at your own leisure. Overnight on the cruise. 
   Please note! 
   -    The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice and depends on weather conditions
   -    Our guide will not escort you on board. There will be an English-speaking cruise manager who will take care of all passengers during the trip in Ha Long, accompanied by his staff.
    

7. 
   Day 07

   Ha Long / Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi – Overnight train to Dong Hoi (B/BR)

   

   Train schedule suggested: SE19 HANOI – DONG HOI 19:40 06:02+1
   Situated in the “Eastern Sea”, so you may guess how miraculous it is seeing the sunrise over the islets of the Bay. The boat will take us to go about marvelous areas, where almost each islet has its own name, adopting its shape or reminiscent, including the Fisherman’s Head, Turtle, the Sail, the Incense Burner Rock, the cute Sea Dog Rock or Cock Fighting Rocks and so on. 
   Return to the Wharf at midday to be back Hanoi. At pointed time, transfer to Hanoi Train Station for train departure to Dong Hoi. Overnight on train.
    

8. 
   Day 08

   Dong Hoi arrival – Phong Nha (B)

   

   Light breakfast will be served on train. Upon arrival Dong Hoi, meet our guide and driver. Transfer to hotel and enjoy free time at your leisure to explore the area at your own pace. Overnight in Phong Nha.

   Optional tour #5: DARK CAVE WITH ZIPLINE & PHONG NHA CAVE 
   Afterward, begin your exploration of Phong Nha with a visit to Dark Cave. Experience a thrilling zipline ride across lush landscapes, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy kayaking and mud baths. Dark Cave is also a habitat for the endangered Ha Tinh langur, listed in Vietnam’s Red Book. In the afternoon, head to Phong Nha Cave, part of the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. This awe-inspiring cave, known as the "Kingdom of Caves," boasts impressive stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing the park's rich geological history and natural beauty. 
   Services included: English speaking guide, transportation, kayak, bud-bath activity, zipline, water during tour, entrance/zone fee if any 
   Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs; any meals, any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program
    

9. 
   Day 09

   Phong Nha – DMZ - Hue (B)

   

   Phong Nha – Hue (~219 kms): 3.30 – 4 hrs scenic drive 
   After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Dong Ha town to explore key historical sites within the former Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), once a fierce battleground during the Vietnam War. Visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels, where villagers lived underground to survive heavy bombings, then continue to Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River, the former dividing line between North and South Vietnam. Follow the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a critical wartime supply route, and conclude the journey at Khe Sanh Combat Base, now a museum displaying war relics, tanks, and bunkers that echo the past.
   Afterwards, head to Hue. The rest of day free at your own leisure. You can stay at hotel or just  Overnight in Hue.
    

10. 
    Day 10

    Hue (B)

    

    Breakfast at hotel. We will discover the charm of the city from the Royal Citadel, Forbidden City, Hue Royal Museum the Tombs of King Tu Duc – one of three best-reserved monuments of the Nguyen Emperors since early 19th and early 20th centuries. Admire the tomb, with a unique perspective on the dynasty's architecture, philosophy, and culture, making this tour an unforgettable experience.
    In the late of afternoon, heading to Tam Giang pier and take a boat to discover Tam Giang Lagoon, the most wonderful lagoon in Vietnam. Experience the daily life of local people, fishermen and enjoy spectacular view in Tam Giang Lagoon, relax and experience fresh air, peaceful atmosphere here. Move on to visit Rú Chá - a tiny islet (rú) on the Tam Giang Lagoon. Originally, Rú Chá was a mangrove forest before local people encroached on the land for farming, leaving the emerging part of the forest a 5ha islet. Back to hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight in Hue. 

    Optional tour #6: ROYAL DINNER  
    Step back in time and experience the elegance of Vietnam’s imperial past with a Royal Dinner in Hue. Set in a beautifully restored traditional house or garden-style restaurant, this evening offers a glimpse into the Nguyen Dynasty’s regal lifestyle. Dress in royal costumes if you wish, and enjoy a carefully curated menu featuring authentic Hue royal cuisine, once reserved for kings and queens. Live traditional music and graceful court performances enhance the ambiance, making this a refined and memorable cultural dining experience.
    Services included: English speaking guide, transportation, dinning with Nguyen Dynasty royal menu style, royal costumes
    Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs, any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program
     

11. 
    Day 11

    Hue – Hoi An (B)

    

    Hue – Hoi An (~120kms): 3 hrs scenic drive
    Wake up then enjoy leisure breakfast at hotel. We check out and head to Hoi An – a must see place in central part of Vietnam and an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century.  
    Upon arrival Hoi An, we will visit Hoi An ancient town. We walk over the tile-roofed Japanese Bridge, visit taciturn Chinese Assembly Halls, visit ancient houses and Trading Houses, pagodas and stroll into the market located by Thu Bon River, where we may find out the same feelings of the artists, who see the rooftops of Hoi An a magical old world of Oriental feel and source of inspiration. This is also a wonderful town to shop for lanterns, soft silk, raw silk, or get your clothes tailored within a day. Back to your hotel by electric car. Overnight in Hoi An.

    Optional tour #7: HOI AN MEMORIES SHOW
    Enjoy an unforgettable night with the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show – a world-class outdoor performance that brings the rich history and culture of Hoi An to life. Set on a grand riverside stage, the show features over 500 performers, stunning lighting effects, and sweeping musical compositions. Watch as scenes of ancient trade, folk traditions, and timeless love stories unfold before your eyes. This visual masterpiece is not only a celebration of Hoi An’s heritage but also a highlight of any visit to Central Vietnam.
    Services included: English speaking guide, transportation, entrance ticket (zone ECO), water during tour, entrance/zone fee if any 
    Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs; any meals, any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program
     

12. 
    Day 12

    Hoi An (B)

    

    Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy free time at your leisure to explore the area at your own pace. 

    Optional tour #8: MORNING MY SON SANCTUARY 
    After breakfast, we start to explore My Son Sanctuary - an ancient Hindu temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled in the lush jungle of central Vietnam. Explore the fascinating ruins of the Champa Kingdom, dating back to the 4th century, and admire the intricate carvings and red-brick structures that have withstood centuries of history. Learn about the site's cultural and religious significance while enjoying the serene natural surroundings. Back to hotel in the afternoon. 
    Services included: English speaking guide, transportation, water during tour, entrance/zone fee if any 
    Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs; any meals, any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program

    Optional tour #9: AFTERNOON TRADITIONAL VILLAGE WITH LANTERN MAKING CLASS
    We begin a peaceful bike ride across Cam Kim Bridge toward Kim Bong Village, a quiet community known for its centuries-old carpentry traditions. At a local workshop, observe skilled artisans crafting wood by hand, using techniques passed down through generations. Continuing at a gentle pace, pedal through serene paths to Duy Vinh Village – a place renowned for weaving sedge mats. Surrounded by vibrant green rice and corn fields, the atmosphere invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the tranquility of the countryside. Later, take part in a hands-on lantern-making class, a beautiful way to connect with Hoi An’s iconic craft culture. Conclude day bike where we start then transfer by electric car back to your hotel. 
    Services included: English speaking guide, transportation, water during tour, entrance/zone fee if any, hands-on lantern making course with experience coach, your product after lesson  
    Services not included: tips for guide and driver, other local staffs; any meals, any drinks or beverage not mentioned in program, personal expenses, services not mentioned in above program
     

13. 
    Day 13

    Hoi An – Da Nang – Depture (B)

    

    You will be free at your own leisure until pointed time transfer to airport for your departure flight. End of services.
    Please note!
    -    Hotel check-out time is around 12.00.