Vietnam from Country to Coast

Touch down in Hanoi! Enjoy a smooth transfer to the Capella in Hanoi, where you will stay for the next two nights.

Explore Hanoi's vibrant streets starting at the iconic Opera House, offering a potential sneak peek inside with your Travel Expert. Wander south to discover the Hanoi University of Medicine and Pasteur Park, followed by a visit to Quan Thanh Temple and the Art Deco-influenced Cua Bac Church. Enjoy a romantic stroll on Phan Dinh Phung Street and savour a local lunch. Explore historical landmarks like Long Bien Bridge before a 20-minute cyclo ride through the Old Quarter. In the evening, indulge in a culinary adventure, sampling Banh Cuon and barbecue specialities. End the night at a hidden café with picturesque views, sipping on egg coffee or a cold beer.

Embark on a captivating journey from Hanoi to Halong City, where a 2.5-hour drive leads you to the Paradise Elegance cruise. After a warm welcome, savour lunch at Le Marin Restaurant with breathtaking Halong Bay views. Explore Tung Sau pearl farm, visit Titov Island, and partake in sunset activities, including Happy Hour and a Vietnamese cooking class. Indulge in a Western set dinner and evening delights at Le Marin restaurant and Piano Lounge. Enjoy live music, squid fishing, and cabin movies, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment on the picturesque waters of Halong Bay.

Commence the day with a revitalising Tai Chi session at L'Odyssée Sundeck and a light breakfast at Le Marin Restaurant. Explore the enchanting Sung Sot Cave, boasting intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and a panoramic viewpoint. During breakfast, witness Thien Cung, Dau Go Cave, and the Fighting Cock Islet. Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and commence a 175km journey by car to Ninh Binh. After a late lunch, embark on a serene bicycle ride, discovering the tranquil beauty of limestone karst mountains and the captivating Bich Dong Pagoda. Conclude the day at the Tam Coc Garden hotel, where you will stay overnight.

After breakfast, head out for a day of captivating exploration, starting with a serene rowing boat journey to the hidden Thien Ha Cave, a lesser-known gem discovered in 2007. This tranquil alternative to Tam Coc boasts a 200m walk and a 500m boat ride through an awe-inspiring cave adorned with illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. Bid farewell to local oarsmen and venture west to Pu Luong, a Nature Reserve with breathtaking landscapes. Arriving at Pu Luong Retreat, indulge in a late lunch and take advantage of free time to explore the panoramic views.

Embark on a leisurely morning walk through the stunning rice terraces in front of the Retreat, descending into the picturesque valley. Wander along paths veiled in vegetation, gradually revealing the charming Uoi village nestled against a towering mountain. Capture the breathtaking panorama of the village from above. Descend further to a local home for a brief rest, followed by a cycling adventure around Lan village. Explore the scenic landscapes, crossing bridges and traversing rice paddies. Discover traditional brocade weaving at a local family if time allows. Conclude the day at Hieu Village, relishing the Hieu waterfall, a unique reserve gem.

Beginning with an early breakfast at the retreat, today you will explore Pu Luong. A short ride takes you to Dong Dieng village, nestled in the most picturesque valley of Pu Luong, where you'll be captivated by the beauty of terrace rice fields and majestic mountains. Venture onto a scenic trail winding through the landscape, unveiling panoramic views of rice fields and the village. Along the way, you encounter local homes, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the lifestyle and culture of the residents. In the mid-morning, check out from the retreat and proceed to the airport for your afternoon flight to Hue. Upon arrival, transfer to Azerai La Residence Hue, where you'll check in and unwind.

Begin with a short drive to Huyen Tran Princess Temple, where peaceful gardens overlook the Perfume River. Continue to Tu Hieu Pagoda, a tranquil Zen temple where you may hear monks chanting.

In the afternoon, visit the historic Ho Quyen Tiger Arena, Long Chau Temple, and Bao Quoc Pagoda. Here, meet a senior monk for insight into Zen Buddhism. After lunch, enjoy a gentle cruise along the Perfume River and visit Emperor Gia Long’s tomb before returning to your hotel for a restful evening.

Today’s journey takes you over the scenic Hai Van Pass known as the “Pass of the Clouds” before arriving in the atmospheric town of Hoi An. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An’s Old Town is a beautifully preserved blend of history and culture, with car-free streets that invite you to explore at a gentle pace. Walk past old merchant houses, traditional temples and vibrant markets, pausing at landmarks such as the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the colourful boats lining the Thu Bon River. Sample local treats like Banh It la Gai or Banh Dau Xanh at the market, and enjoy a peaceful boat trip on the river to take in the town from a different angle.

After a hotel breakfast, immerse yourself in a culinary journey in Hoi An, beginning with an exploration of Tra Que Village. Witness the meticulous farming practices of locals, engage in hands-on activities, and gather fresh produce for an upcoming cooking class. The bicycle tour leads through shaded neighborhoods, unveiling cultural insights at An My hamlet's Communal House and a vibrant local market. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Thu Bon River, culminating in a cooking class at the renowned school. Under the guidance of a local chef, prepare regional delicacies using freshly harvested ingredients.

Indulge in a leisure day in Hoi An, exploring its shopper's haven independently. The city, with its paintings, silk fabrics, ceramics, lanterns, and tailor-made clothing, invites you to immerse yourself in its vibrant markets. Discover the charm of Hoi An's streets, a paradise for shoppers and enthusiasts of Vietnamese craftsmanship. Overnight at Hotel Royal Hoi An in a Deluxe room.

After a delicious breakfast, board the Vietage express train to Quy Nhon, an exclusive journey through Central Vietnam's landscapes. The elegant rail car, limited to 12 passengers, promises a unique experience. Traverse plains, seaside, and mountains on the way to Dieu Tri station in Quy Nhon. Upon arrival, unwind at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas in an Ocean View Pool Villa, where you will stay the next three nights, enjoying an evening at leisure.

Savor two blissful days at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, starting with a delicious breakfast. Immerse yourself in the luxurious amenities of the resort, featuring an Ocean View Pool Villa for an elevated experience. Enjoy the serene surroundings, whether it's a rejuvenating dip in the pool, a tranquil stroll along the beach, or indulging in world-class spa treatments. Relish the freedom to craft your itinerary, be it a leisurely day by the pool, exploring local attractions, or simply basking in the beauty of Quy Nhon.

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast before departing the calm shores of Quy Nhon for a direct flight to the energetic heart of Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival, ease into the pace that suits you best. Your expert guide will lead you through the city's vibrant centre, sharing stories behind landmarks like the French-colonial People’s Committee building, the grand Opera House, and the lively districts of Dong Khoi and Nguyen Hue Boulevard. It's a great way to get your bearings and soak up the atmosphere of one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities.

After breakfast, explore Ho Chi Minh City, starting with an early visit to the bustling flower market in District 10. Explore the serene Hoi Quan Quang Trieu Temple, where spiral incense creates an atmosphere of tranquillity. Journey to Tan Dinh Market, a historic locale known for its high-quality products, retaining its original French-built charm. Delve into the poignant history of the Fall of Saigon at the U.S. Government evacuation site and enjoy a hidden gem for lunch. In the afternoon, discover the largest Mahayana pagoda in Phu Nhuan district, blending Japanese influence with Vietnamese architecture. Wander through local neighbourhoods, uncovering hidden cafes, schools, police stations, and more.

Leave Ho Chi Minh City behind for the peaceful town of Cai Be in the Mekong Delta. Visit a Cao Dai temple to witness a midday ceremony, then board a sampan for a scenic cruise past fruit orchards and riverside villages. Enjoy a local lunch at a plantation before continuing by boat to Vinh Long, then transfer to your hotel for a two-night stay.

Awaken to sunrise over the Mekong Delta, a captivating spectacle as you embark on a sampan ride into the heart of the bustling Cai Rang floating market. Explore the serene Ong Pagoda, a spiritual sanctuary for the Chinese community since 1894, adorned with massive incense coils that hang gracefully from the ceiling. Continue your cultural journey with visits to a Khmer pagoda and the Binh Thuy Ancient House, a rare gem combining European and Asian architectural influences, dating back to 1870. Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savouring the rich flavours amidst historical surroundings. The afternoon is yours to relax at your leisure.

On your final day in Vietnam, relish a satisfying breakfast, bidding farewell to the enchanting surroundings of Can Tho. Brace yourself for a scenic return journey back to the vibrant heart of Ho Chi Minh City for your flight home.