Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through the heart of Vietnam, perfectly tailored for Australian travelers seeking a blend of cultural immersion and laid-back exploration. This tour offers the best of both worlds: iconic landmarks and gentle adventures without the rush. From the soul-stirring heritage of Hanoi and the emerald waters of Halong Bay, to the ancient charm of Hoi An and the vibrant pulse of Saigon, you’ll experience it all at a comfortable pace. Highlights include leisurely bike rides through rural villages, hands-on cooking classes, and exploring the wonders of Bana Hills. With plenty of free time to wander, shop, or simply enjoy a coffee by the river, this is your ultimate chance to “reset” while discovering the timeless beauty of Vietnam.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Hanoi’s Timeless Soul: Journey through the layers of history at the Temple of Literature and the poignant Hoa Lo Prison, ending with a legendary Egg Coffee in a hidden local alley.
- Postcard-Perfect Moments: Capture the vibrant “sea of red” at the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village and experience the thrill of the iconic Hanoi Train Street.
- Majestic Halong Bay Cruise: Sail through emerald waters and limestone karsts, featuring kayaking at Luon Cave, hiking Titop Island, and a serene Tai Chi session at sunrise.
- Authentic Hoi An Rural Life: Escape to the countryside with a cycling tour to Tra Que Village, join a hands-on cooking class, and relax with a traditional herbal massage.
- Champa Kingdom Mystery: Explore the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary, enjoy a sacred Champa dance, and learn the art of rice paper making with a local family.
- The Iconic Golden Bridge: Take the world’s longest cable car to Ba Na Hills to walk on the famous “Hands of God” and explore the romantic French Village above the clouds.
- Riverside Serenity: Drift along the tranquil Thu Bon River by boat and soak in the magical atmosphere of Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets.
DAY 1: HANOI ARRIVAL
Your Vietnamese adventure begins as you touch down in the charming capital, Hanoi, where our friendly guide and private driver will be waiting at Noi Bai International Airport to whisk you away to your hotel in the heart of the city for a smooth check-in. The rest of your evening is dedicated to pure relaxation, allowing you to unwind from your flight, soak in the fragrant tropical air, or take a gentle first stroll through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to ease into the local rhythm at your own. Overnight in Hanoi.
DAY 2: HANOI AFTERNOON TOUR
Enjoy a slow, free morning to sleep in or explore the nearby lakeside before gathering for a traditional lunch and heading out to discover the layers of Hanoi’s history. You’ll start with a poignant visit to the Hoa Lo Prison, often called the “Hanoi Hilton,” then wander through the peaceful courtyards of the Temple of Literature, which stands as a masterpiece of traditional architecture, before paying respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex and the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake. To wrap up the day like a local, we’ll tuck into a cozy hidden cafe to savor a creamy, legendary Hanoi Egg Coffee, providing the perfect sweet ending before returning to your hotel.
DAY 3: HANOI & HALONG BAY
Leave the city buzz behind as we head toward the Gulf of Tonkin to board an elegant cruise vessel just in time for a refreshing welcome drink and a safety briefing from the captain. As you sail into the emerald waters, enjoy a gourmet seafood lunch while gliding past thousands of limestone karsts, then choose your own afternoon adventure by rowing a bamboo boat or kayaking through the hidden lagoons of Luon Cave. Afterward, hike up Titop Island for a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay or swim in the cool waters before returning to the deck for a “Happy Hour” sunset and an evening of magic featuring squid fishing, karaoke, or a rejuvenating spa treatment.
Note: The actual schedule is subject to change due to weather conditions to ensure the safety of our guests.
DAY 4: HALONG BACK TO HANOI
Wake up to the gentle lapping of waves and join a Tai Chi session on the sun deck as the sun rises over the limestone peaks, followed by a light breakfast to fuel your morning exploration. You’ll spend the final hours of your cruise discovering hidden Sung Sot cave (Suprise cave) or simply relaxing on deck as we navigate back to the harbor, where a delicious brunch awaits before returning to the vibrant energy of Hanoi. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city’s vibrant café culture. Overnight in Hanoi.
DAY 5: HANOI MORNING TOUR
After a hearty breakfast, we journey just outside the city to the mesmerizing Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, where you’ll witness a sea of crimson and ochre as thousands of incense bundles are laid out to dry like giant blooming flowers. You will have the chance to learn about this centuries-old craft and capture some of the most vibrant, “once-in-a-lifetime” photos before heading back to the heart of the capital. The adventure continues at the famous Hanoi Train Street, a unique residential narrow alley where life thrives just inches from the tracks; here, you can sip a local coffee and prepare your camera to capture the thrilling sight of the train passing through this iconic spot. We’ll wrap up this visual feast with a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant, leaving you with a morning full of incredible memories and professional-grade snapshots. Back to your hotel for a free afternoon. Overnight in Hanoi.
DAY 6: HANOI FLY TO DANANG & HOI AN
After breakfast, free morning until time to transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang.
Upon arrival, meet your local guide and drive to Hoi An for checking in your hotel and follow by a free afternoon
DAY 7: TRA QUE VILLAGE & COOKING CLASS
Start your morning with a relaxed breakfast before setting off on a refreshing countryside cycling journey, where you will ride through peaceful village paths, meet local farmers, and gain authentic insight into how fresh seasonal vegetables are grown and cultivated in the region. Continue the experience with meaningful cultural interaction as you observe daily rural life and learn about traditional farming techniques directly from the people who preserve them. After the ride, unwind with a soothing local herbal massage designed to relax your body using natural aromatic herbs and time-honored wellness practices. The journey then transitions into a hands-on cooking class where you will be guided step by step in preparing authentic local dishes using freshly harvested ingredients, followed by enjoying your self-prepared lunch served right at the cooking venue in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a comfortable transfer back to your hotel where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace.
DAY 8: MY SON SANCTUARY
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast before departing by car to the mystical My Son Sanctuary, where you will explore the ancient ruins of the Champa civilization surrounded by lush jungle and learn about its rich spiritual and historical significance as your guide brings the heritage sites to life. Continue your cultural journey with a captivating traditional Champa dance performance that reflects the artistry and sacred rituals of this once-thriving kingdom. After the visit, transfer to a local house where you will be warmly welcomed to discover the traditional art of making rice paper, gaining hands-on experience in one of Vietnam’s most authentic culinary crafts. Enjoy a homemade lunch at the local house, savoring fresh flavors in a peaceful countryside setting, followed by a moment of rest and relaxation. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride along the river back to Hoi An, soaking in tranquil waterway views as you return to the ancient town. The rest of the day is free at your leisure to explore, shop, or simply unwind, before an overnight stay in charming Hoi An.
DAY 9: HOI AN FREE & EASY
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Hoi An before embracing a full day at your own pace in this charming ancient town, where you can wander through lantern-lit streets, explore hidden cafés, and discover tailor shops offering bespoke clothing crafted within hours. Art lovers can visit local galleries and pottery workshops to experience the creative spirit of Hoi An, while food enthusiasts may join a street food walk to taste iconic dishes such as cao lau and white rose dumplings. As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful riverside moment or a romantic lantern release on the Thu Bon River before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay in Hoi An.
DAY 10: BANA HILLS & DANANG
After breakfast, depart for an exciting full-day trip to Ba Na Hills, one of Vietnam’s most famous mountain resorts. Ride the world’s longest cable car up to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of lush forests and misty peaks. Visit Le Jardin d’Amour Flower Garden, the beautiful Linh Ung Pagoda, and the iconic Golden Bridge, held by a pair of giant stone hands — one of the most photographed landmarks in Vietnam. Enjoy a buffet lunch at the mountaintop restaurant, then continue exploring the French Village, Fantasy Park, and other attractions before descending by cable car. Return to Danang in the late afternoon. Overnight in Danang.
DAY 11: DANANG FLY TO SAIGON
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Danang Airport for your flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) — Vietnam’s vibrant southern metropolis. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your local guide and escorted to the hotel for check-in.
The afternoon is free for you to unwind or explore at your own. You may choose to stroll along the bustling Dong Khoi Street, relax in a cozy café, or discover Saigon’s rich blend of French colonial charm and modern energy. In the evening, enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere and diverse dining scene. Overnight in Saigon.
DAY 12: MEKONG DELTA TOUR
After breakfast, leave the city behind and travel to My Tho, gateway to the Mekong Delta. Board a motorboat to cruise along the mighty Mekong River, passing floating houses and lush islands.
Stop at a local family’s home to enjoy tropical fruits, honey tea, and homemade rice wine, while listening to traditional Vietnamese folk music performed by villagers. Take a sampan ride through narrow palm-shaded canals to experience the delta’s peaceful charm up close. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Saigon in the late afternoon. Overnight in Saigon.
DAY 13: CU CHI TUNNELS
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for an exciting excursion to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 60 kilometers northwest of Saigon. Upon arrival, watch a short documentary film to learn about the history and construction of this vast underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war. Then, venture into the tunnels themselves — a fascinating maze of narrow passageways, hidden chambers, and ingenious traps that reveal the resilience and ingenuity of the local people. After exploring, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Saigon. The afternoon is free for you to relax or continue exploring the city’s vibrant streets, colorful markets, or elegant French colonial landmarks. Overnight in Saigon.
DAY 14: SAIGON DEPARTURE
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Spend some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxing before your transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your flight home. As your journey comes to an end, we hope you take with you unforgettable memories of Vietnam — its warmth, its flavors, and its people. Farewell and see you again!
