Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Hanoi (G)
Upon arriving at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Take some time to relax and settle in after your journey. In the afternoon, experience the unique blend of French colonial architecture and vibrant Vietnamese culture on a leisurely cyclo ride through the Colonial Quarter. This tour provides an excellent introduction to the city's diverse history, featuring a mix of colonial buildings, pagodas, and modern structures.
As dusk falls, prepare for a captivating evening with a traditional Water Puppetry show, a delightful art form originating from Northern Vietnam's rural communities. Conclude your day with a welcome dinner at a renowned restaurant housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, offering a taste of local cuisine in a charming setting. Your night will be spent in Hanoi, providing a restful end to a culturally rich day.
Day 2: Hanoi City tour with Street Food (B, L, G)
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, the day begins with a visit to the Fine Art Museum, home to an extensive collection of artwork showcasing Vietnam's artistic heritage. Next, delve into the academic past at the Temple of Literature, the nation's first university, founded in the 11th century, followed by a poignant visit to the Hoa Lo Prison, famously dubbed the 'Hanoi Hilton.'
The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the Old Quarter's maze-like streets on the back of a motorbike, immersing yourself in the vibrant street life and sampling iconic Hanoi street foods such as Pho, Nom, Banh Goi, and Bun Cha. This culinary adventure highlights the rich flavors and diversity of Vietnamese street cuisine.
Wrap up your explorations at a local Bia Hoi, where you can relax with a glass of the city's famous draft beer, mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike. Return to your hotel to rest and recharge for another exciting day.
Day 3: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay (B, L, D, GP)
After breakfast, you’ll set off for Ha Long Bay, one of the most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the world’s largest marine limestone karst landscape. Upon arrival, you'll board a private wooden junk that will take you through the serene Bai Tu Long Bay area. The cruise continues to the bay’s most secluded spots, offering you the chance to swim at tranquil sandy beaches. The carefully planned route avoids the crowded areas, ensuring a peaceful location in the bay for your overnight stay.
For your three-day Ha Long excursion, you'll be aboard the L'Amour Junk, one of the finest wooden boats on the bay. Modeled after the ancient Chinese royal-court vessels, the L'Amour Junk features three barge sails, a wide transom, and a rectangular superstructure. With only one cabin per boat, you’ll feel like royalty on board.
The air-conditioned cabin offers stunning views of the bay through its windows and spans about 10 square meters. It is furnished with either two twin beds or a double queen-size bed, all made of hardwood. The cabin includes a wardrobe, plush pillows, crisp white cotton sheets, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower and a selection of high-quality toiletries.
All meals, primarily featuring fresh seafood, are provided on board. Additionally, kayaking is available and included in the price, allowing you to explore the bay's waters even further.
Day 4: Ha Long Bay Exploration (B, L, D, G on board)
Greet the morning with a refreshing swim or relax on the sundeck to soak in the panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. After breakfast, visit a local fishing village by kayak, gaining insight into the daily lives of the fishermen. Enjoy a barbeque lunch on a secluded beach, then spend the afternoon at your leisure, swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the junk.
As the day winds down, relish the quiet atmosphere of the bay's remote areas where you'll anchor for another peaceful night on board.
Day 5: Ha Long Bay to Hue via Hanoi (B, G on board, DP)
Wake up to the serene environment of Ha Long Bay and enjoy a morning swim or lounge on the sundeck. After breakfast, continue to explore the bay, visiting one of its famous caves or enjoying a private beach. Brunch is served on board as you cruise back to the dock.
Post-disembarkation, transfer directly to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure, possibly exploring the tranquil streets or relaxing at your comfortable accommodation.
Day 6: Hue City Exploration (B, L, D, G)
Begin your day with a serene boat cruise along the Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic temple that offers insight into the spiritual life of Hue. Continue your journey to the Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, where you can appreciate the harmonious blend of architecture and nature, reflecting the philosophical and aesthetic values of the time.
In the afternoon, explore the vast Imperial Citadel, once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Wander through the grand halls and grounds, learning about the dynastic rulers and observing the intricate architectural details. The citadel, with its moats and walls, tells the tale of Vietnam's royal past.
Conclude your day with a special dinner at one of Hue's renowned garden houses, known for their serene settings and traditional Hue cuisine. This intimate dining experience provides a perfect end to a culturally rich day. You'll return to your hotel in Hue for a restful evening.
Day 7: Hue to Da Nang and Hoi An Transfer (B, L, G)
After breakfast, depart for Hoi An, taking the scenic route over the Hai Van Pass, known for its stunning views of the coastline and the South China Sea. Make a brief stop at the Cham Museum in Da Nang to view the largest collection of Cham artifacts and sculptures in the world, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Champa Kingdom.
Arrive in Hoi An by the early afternoon. After checking into your hotel, take a guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site is well-preserved and full of historical buildings, reflecting a fusion of indigenous and foreign cultures. Visit key landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and the ancient house of Tan Ky, with its unique architecture and historic artefacts.
Enjoy the evening at your leisure, perhaps exploring more of Hoi An’s charming streets or relaxing at a riverside café. Alternatively you could visit the nearby Cua Dai Beach that is just 3 kilometres outside of Hoi An during your leisure days.
Day 10: Hoi An to Da Nang to Qui Nhon (B, L on board, DP)
After an early breakfast, your driver will take you to Da Nang Railway Station where you'll board the luxurious Vietage train for a scenic journey to Qui Nhon. This unique train ride offers panoramic views of Vietnam's coastline and includes premium services such as a welcome drink, a three-course meal, snacks, selected beverages, and a head & shoulder treatment, ensuring a relaxing journey.
Arrive in Qui Nhon in the afternoon and transfer to your resort. Qui Nhon is a tranquil beach town known for its beautiful landscapes and historical sites, including the remains of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a walk along the beach or relaxing at your resort.
Day 11-14: Qui Nhon Relaxation Days (B)
Take advantage of a full day at your disposal to explore Qui Nhon at your own pace. Opt for a day of relaxation at the beach, indulging in the serene atmosphere and the sound of the waves. Alternatively, explore local attractions such as the Twin Towers (Cham temples), and the Qui Nhon Museum to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
Your resort, the luxurious AVANI Qui Nhon Resort & Spa, offers a variety of activities and amenities, including yoga sessions, spa treatments, and water sports, providing plenty of options to enrich your stay. The resort's secluded location provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
This portion of your journey is designed to provide a balance of relaxation and local exploration, with comfortable transitions between destinations to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Day 15: Qui Nhon to Ho Chi Minh City Departure (B, DP)
Enjoy a leisurely morning at the resort before your transfer to Qui Nhon airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City in good time to connect with your international departure.
Key
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner
G = Guide
GP = Guide pick-up
DP = Driver pick-up
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