Itinerary
Uncover the soul of Vietnam on this immersive 12-day journey that gracefully blends cultural discovery, historical depth, culinary richness, and beachside rejuvenation. From the ancient alleys of Hanoi to the ethereal beauty of Ha Long Bay and the tranquil shores of Quy Nhon, this itinerary is ideal for discerning travellers seeking a refined yet authentic Southeast Asian experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – Welcome Dinner & Cultural Introduction (D, GP)
Touch down in the historic capital of Vietnam and be warmly welcomed by your private guide. As you transfer to your centrally located hotel, take in your first glimpses of Hanoi’s tree-lined boulevards and French colonial architecture. In the evening, indulge in a beautifully presented candlelit welcome dinner at one of Hanoi’s top restaurants. Here, you’ll sample an elegant tasting menu that celebrates both traditional Vietnamese flavours and modern interpretations, creating a perfect introduction to the country's rich culinary heritage.
Meals: Dinner | Service: Guide Pick-up
Day 2: Hanoi Motorbike City Tour & Street Food Adventure (B, Street Food, G)
Begin your exploration of Vietnam’s capital with a unique guided motorbike tour through Hanoi’s vibrant streets. Start at the Vietnam Women’s Museum, a tribute to the resilience and cultural contributions of Vietnamese women. Next, visit the Temple of Literature, a serene architectural gem and the country’s first university, founded in the 11th century.
In the afternoon, weave through the bustling Old Quarter by scooter, where your guide will introduce you to Hanoi’s renowned street food culture. Savour dishes like pho bo, banh cuon, and nom, while learning about the stories behind each flavour. End your day with a scenic walk across the Long Bien Bridge, taking in the sunset over the Red River and observing daily life in one of Hanoi’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
Meals: Breakfast, Street Food Tasting | Service: Guide
Day 3: Day Trip to Hoa Lu, Mua Caves & Trang An (B, L, G)
Venture south to Ninh Binh Province, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land.” Your day begins with a visit to Hoa Lu, the former imperial capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Explore ancient temples nestled among limestone karsts.
Cycle through picturesque countryside to Mua Caves, and climb the 486 stone steps to its summit for panoramic views over rice paddies and river valleys. After a local lunch, embark on a tranquil rowboat journey through the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO-listed network of waterways, grottos, and spiritual sites. Drift beneath limestone arches and past forested cliffs, soaking in the pristine serenity. Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Service: Guide
Day 4: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay – Overnight Cruise (B, L, D, G)
Depart Hanoi for the magical seascapes of Ha Long Bay, where your traditional wooden junk awaits. Cruise through a fairytale landscape of towering karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy a seafood lunch onboard as the boat glides past remote islets and fishing villages.
In the afternoon, explore hidden caves or swim in secluded lagoons. As the sun sets, relax on the sundeck or participate in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration before enjoying a chef-prepared dinner. Spend the night in a private, air-conditioned cabin, lulled to sleep by the gentle motion of the bay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Service: Guide
Day 5: Ha Long Bay Exploration (B, L, D, G)
Rise with the sun for a Tai Chi session on deck before breakfast. Today’s exploration takes you deeper into Ha Long Bay’s quieter corners. Kayak through tranquil lagoons, visit hidden beaches, or explore vast grottoes filled with stalactites and mystery.
Back aboard, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch and some free time to relax, sunbathe, or join an informal cooking class. As night falls, dine on the deck beneath the stars, toasting to unforgettable moments on one of the world’s natural wonders.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Service: Guide
Day 6: Return to Hanoi – Free Afternoon (Brunch, DP)
Begin the morning with a scenic brunch cruise back to the mainland, where your private transfer awaits to return you to Hanoi. Arrive in the capital by mid-afternoon, with time to rest, enjoy a café along Hoan Kiem Lake, or revisit your favourite Old Quarter spots.
Meals: Brunch | Service: Driver Pick-up
Day 7: Fly to Quy Nhon – Begin Your Beach Escape (B, DP)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Quy Nhon, a peaceful coastal town along Vietnam’s South Central Coast. Upon arrival, your driver will escort you to a luxury seaside resort nestled between lush mountains and the sea.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure, unwinding on the beach or exploring the resort’s wellness facilities. Quy Nhon is famed for its quiet charm, turquoise waters, and ancient Cham ruins.
Meals: Breakfast | Service: Driver Pick-up
Days 8–11: Leisure & Discovery in Quy Nhon – Culture, Coastline & Cuisine (B)
These days are yours to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Quy Nhon. Choose from a variety of relaxing and cultural experiences:
- Soak up the sun on the resort’s private beach, where calm waters and white sands await.
- Take a bicycle ride to Banh It Cham Towers, one of the best-preserved Cham complexes in the region.
- Visit a local fishing village to witness traditional net-casting and try your hand at this ancient practice.
- Enjoy a beach picnic, or take a boat trip to a nearby island for snorkelling and exploration.
- Discover the region’s heritage at the Quy Nhon Museum, or stroll the town’s esplanade at sunset.
Stay at the luxurious AVANI Quy Nhon Resort & Spa, featuring sea-view rooms, spa treatments, international dining, and curated experiences. For more, visit AVANI Quy Nhon Resort.
Meals: Breakfast (daily)
Day 12: Farewell to Quy Nhon – Departure to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi (B, DP)
Enjoy a final morning soaking up the coastal serenity before your private transfer to Quy Nhon Airport. Board your flight to either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, depending on your onward travel plans.
This smooth connection ensures a stress-free departure as you bid farewell to Vietnam’s enchanting landscapes, warm hospitality, and unforgettable flavours.
Meals: Breakfast | Service: Driver Pick-up
Key: B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner | G = Guide | GP = Guide Pick-up | DP = Driver Pick-up
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