21 Days - Vietnam In Depth

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, proceed through immigration and visa formalities (please note that the visa letter and stamping fees are not included), then collect your luggage. Once you exit the arrivals hall, you’ll be welcomed by your local guide holding a sign with your name. From here, enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your hotel. The journey into central Hanoi takes approximately one hour and offers your first glimpse of Vietnam’s capital, where scooters hum past rice-laden bicycles, and daily life unfolds along the roadside.

Check-in is available from 2:00pm. Once settled into your hotel, take the remainder of the day to relax or begin discovering Hanoi at your own pace. If time and energy allow, step outside and begin exploring the city’s famous Old Quarter. This historic neighbourhood is a captivating maze of narrow streets, each named after the trades once practised there, such as Silk Street, Silver Street, and Paper Street. You’ll find a sensory overload of motorbikes, tangled electric wires, market stalls, and food vendors - a chaotic but charming window into local life.

Alternatively, enjoy a more relaxed afternoon with a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular local spot for couples, families, and early-morning tai chi. Visit Ngoc Son Temple, perched on a small island in the lake, or find a rooftop café and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee while watching life unfold below. For dinner, you might consider trying Hanoi’s signature dish, bun cha - grilled pork with vermicelli noodles - or head to a local restaurant for a more refined introduction to northern Vietnamese cuisine.

After breakfast, begin your day with a memorable culinary immersion that captures the energy and flavour of Hanoi. Your experience begins with a cyclo ride through the city's bustling streets. These traditional bicycle taxis provide a unique vantage point from which to take in the daily rhythm of life in the capital. Watch as motorbikes weave through traffic, vendors open their shops, and locals sip morning coffee at curbside cafés. Your destination is Dong Xuan Market, one of Hanoi’s oldest and most iconic markets, nestled in the heart of the Old Quarter.

Step off the cyclo and into the vibrant market, where a kaleidoscope of colours and scents fills the air. Explore the stalls brimming with fresh herbs, tropical fruits, dried goods, spices, and traditional ingredients essential to Vietnamese cooking. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to key ingredients and invite you to taste a few popular local snacks, providing insight into the role street food plays in daily life across Hanoi. This energetic, sensory experience sets the tone for your cooking class to follow.

From the market, travel to Thom Culinary, a peaceful hideaway just outside the city’s core. Set in a tranquil garden space, this family-run cooking school blends modern hospitality with traditional warmth. You’ll be welcomed with a cool drink and given a tour of the on-site garden, where fragrant herbs and vegetables grow in neat beds. You’ll select fresh ingredients to use in your class, picking the leaves and roots that bring Vietnamese dishes to life. The natural surroundings offer a restorative pause and a stark contrast to the busy markets of the morning.

Under the guidance of a skilled local chef, you’ll prepare a selection of dishes representative of northern Vietnamese cuisine. Depending on the seasonal menu, you may roll your own fresh rice paper spring rolls, prepare a traditional claypot dish, or learn the precise balance of herbs, spices, and sauces that define the region’s signature flavours. The class is hands-on, informative, and engaging, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and hear stories about the culinary traditions passed down through generations.

After your class, sit down in the garden to enjoy the dishes you’ve prepared, accompanied by local drinks and a light dessert. This is more than just a meal - it’s a cultural exchange and a rewarding way to better understand the complexity and nuance of Vietnamese food. Return to your hotel in the afternoon, with the rest of the day at leisure to explore more of Hanoi, relax, or continue tasting your way through the capital.

After breakfast, immerse yourself in Hanoi’s cultural fabric with a full-day guided experience that offers a local’s view of the capital. While major sights are included, the focus today is on quiet streets, genuine encounters, and the rhythms of daily life.

Begin your morning with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a focal point for Hanoi residents at daybreak. Join in or simply observe as people gather for tai chi, stretching, aerobics, or group dance sessions on the lakeside promenade. This tranquil, communal start to the day offers a different lens through which to view the city. Visit Ngoc Son Temple, perched on an island in the lake and connected by a red footbridge, before stopping at a nearby café for a traditional ca phe sua da or a rich egg coffee (a Hanoi favourite).

Wander deeper into the Old Quarter, where colonial facades and ancient pagodas coexist with lively market stalls and local businesses. Visit Hoa Lo Prison, a powerful museum set in a former colonial jail, which documents both the French era and the Vietnam War period. Continue to B-52 Lake, a small, quiet waterbody where the wreckage of a downed US bomber still lies partially submerged. Then explore the Temple of Literature, an oasis of calm that once served as Vietnam’s first university and a tribute to Confucian scholarship.

Break for lunch and try bun cha, one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes. This hearty meal of grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly is served with rice noodles, herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce - a Hanoian lunchtime staple. After your meal, visit one of the city’s more unusual attractions: a residential street where active train tracks run just steps from local homes. Walk along the rails, snap a few photos, and perhaps meet residents who have adapted their daily routines to the passing trains.

Later in the afternoon, relax with a glass of fresh bia hoi at a street-side stall, a quintessential local experience. These open-air beer stations serve light, daily-brewed beer and are popular gathering spots for friends and families.

As evening approaches, attend a traditional water puppet show at a local theatre. This centuries-old northern Vietnamese art form brings folklore and history to life through handcrafted puppets performed on water, accompanied by live music and narration. It’s a fascinating cultural performance that blends storytelling, music, and craftsmanship.

After the show, your guide will accompany you to dinner at one of Hanoi’s signature dining spots. The Cha Ca La Vong restaurant is a longstanding institution, known exclusively for its namesake dish - grilled fish flavoured with turmeric and dill, served sizzling at the table alongside rice noodles and peanuts. Alternatively, enjoy refined vegan cuisine at Vi Lai, or sample a wide range of regional Vietnamese flavours at Ngon.

After dinner, return to your hotel to freshen up before your evening departure. You will be transferred to the railway station to board the Chapa Express Train. Departing Hanoi at 10:00pm, the train makes its overnight journey northwards to the mountain town of Sapa, arriving at around 6:00am. Settle into your comfortable sleeper cabin and prepare for the next leg of your Vietnamese adventure.

Upon arrival at Lao Cai Railway Station in the early morning, your guide and driver will greet you on the platform and assist with your luggage. From here, enjoy a scenic transfer through the mountains to Sapa Town, a journey of approximately 45 minutes. As the road winds upward, you’ll be treated to your first glimpses of the misty hills, terraced fields, and quiet valleys that define this picturesque region of northern Vietnam. Upon arrival in Sapa, check in at your hotel or enjoy a hearty breakfast to prepare for the day ahead.

Today, you’ll embark on a full-day guided excursion to Nam Cang, one of the most remote and culturally rich villages in the Sapa region. After breakfast, meet your guide and set off by car toward the less-visited eastern part of the Hoang Lien Mountains. The road journey reveals spectacular views of forested hillsides, mountain streams, and hidden valleys. Along the way, stop at the Red Dao village of Nam Nhiu. Here, you'll be welcomed into a local home with a warm cup of green tea, and learn about the community’s agricultural lifestyle, traditional architecture, and spiritual practices.

From Nam Nhiu, a gentle walk along village paths and across suspension bridges brings you closer to Nam Cang. You'll pass rice terraces carved into steep slopes and cross a river flanked by thick bamboo groves. On arrival in Nam Cang, lunch is served at a local home or rustic riverside restaurant. Tucked into a lush valley at the far end of the Sapa region, Nam Cang is a peaceful settlement known for its vibrant Red Dao community. Red Dao women are easily recognisable by their bright red headdresses and intricately embroidered garments, each design specific to family and village tradition.

After lunch, spend time exploring the village with your guide. Visit homes and workshops where traditional crafts are still practised - watch how rice paper is made by hand, see silver being shaped into jewellery, and admire the detailed embroidery that decorates everyday clothing. The Red Dao are also renowned for their use of herbal medicine, and your guide will explain how plants gathered from the surrounding mountains are used for healing.

If the weather is warm, you may choose to take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the river that runs alongside the village. In the late afternoon, return to your vehicle for the journey back to Sapa, arriving at your hotel in time to relax and reflect on the day’s encounters.

Today offers a scenic and leisurely journey through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Sapa region, with visits to the Silver Waterfall, Love Waterfall, and Heaven’s Gate. After breakfast, meet your guide and driver at the hotel and set off on a half-day adventure into the mountains surrounding Sapa.

Your first stop is Silver Waterfall, located about 12km from Sapa Town. The drive to the waterfall passes through lush valleys and cultivated farmlands, where you’ll see local villagers tending to vegetables, fruits, and vibrant flower fields. The waterfall itself cascades from a height of over 200 metres and is one of the most well-known in the region. From the base, you can climb a series of stone steps to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forests and peaks, and take in the fresh mountain air.

Next, continue a short drive to the entrance of Hoang Lien National Park, the gateway to Love Waterfall. From here, follow a forest trail that winds through thick bamboo groves and under the canopy of ancient trees. The 2.2km walk is easy and peaceful, offering the chance to spot native birds and admire the tropical vegetation unique to this part of Vietnam. Love Waterfall is a serene spot with water tumbling over rocks into a clear pool below. According to legend, a fairy once bathed here, giving the place its romantic name. Take some time to relax beside the falls, dip your feet in the cool water, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

From Love Waterfall, return to your car and continue the journey to Heaven’s Gate. This high mountain pass sits at 2,000 metres above sea level and marks the boundary between Lai Chau and Lao Cai provinces. It is also the highest road pass in Vietnam. From this lofty viewpoint, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, including the towering peak of Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina. The deep valleys and winding roads far below create a dramatic backdrop that captures the raw beauty of Vietnam’s northern highlands.

After soaking in the views and taking photos, return by car to Sapa Town. You’ll have time to freshen up and enjoy dinner before your guide escorts you to Lao Cai Station for your overnight train journey back to Hanoi. Board the Chapa Express at 9:30pm and settle into your comfortable sleeper cabin for the return journey, arriving in Hanoi around 5:30am the following morning.

After an early morning arrival at Hanoi Station, your guide and driver will be waiting to greet you. Before setting out on the next leg of your journey, enjoy a local breakfast en route to Ha Long Bay. The drive from central Hanoi to the port takes approximately 2.5 hours, passing through small towns and stretches of rural countryside dotted with rice paddies and water buffalo. As you approach the coast, the limestone silhouettes of Ha Long Bay begin to rise in the distance, offering a preview of the scenery to come.

Upon arrival at the cruise port, board your luxury vessel and settle into your cabin. As the boat sets sail into the bay, take some time to familiarise yourself with the ship’s facilities. Relax on the sun deck and watch the dramatic seascape unfold around you - towering limestone karsts, forested islands, and quiet emerald coves create an unforgettable backdrop for the first hours of your cruise.

In the afternoon, the cruise reaches Cua Van, one of the last remaining floating villages in Ha Long Bay. Still home to a small community of fishermen, the village offers a rare glimpse into traditional aquacultural life. You’ll explore the village by bamboo boat, rowed by local residents, who will guide you past floating homes and schools gently bobbing on the water. If you prefer something more active, complimentary kayaks are available to paddle through the peaceful waters at your own pace. A visit to the Cua Van Cultural Centre is also included, where you can view exhibits of photographs and archaeological finds that tell the story of this unique community.

Next, travel by tender to Tien Ong Cave, a large and atmospheric cavern hidden within the limestone cliffs. Archaeological discoveries here date back as far as 10,000-8,000 BC, including fossil evidence of early human settlement. The cave’s interior stretches to a depth of 50 metres, with chambers filled with ancient stalactites and striking rock formations. Your guide will lead a short walk through the cave, sharing insights into its history and significance in the region.

As the day winds down, return to the cruise ship and sail to the mooring site for the night. During what’s known as “blue hour” - the soft light just after sunset - the bay becomes especially photogenic, its waters mirroring the deepening sky. This is a perfect time to enjoy a drink on the deck, reflect on the day’s discoveries, or join the onboard cooking class with the resident chef. Learn how to prepare some simple and delicious Vietnamese dishes, with recipes you can recreate at home.

Dinner is served in the elegant dining room, where guests aboard the Heritage Line Violet can choose from a curated à la carte menu of Vietnamese and international cuisine. After dinner, relax with a cultural presentation by the guide, or join the crew for some light-hearted squid fishing off the back of the boat. The calm of the bay, the lapping water, and the distant twinkling of island lights all set the scene for a peaceful and memorable night’s rest at sea.

Start your day with the gentle sound of the bay’s waters and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the dining room. A selection of pastries awaits early risers, and if you’re feeling energised, you can join a Tai Chi session on the sun deck as the sun rises over Ha Long Bay. The cool morning air, shifting light, and calm waters provide an unforgettable setting for this mindful practice. After a light breakfast, board the Sunset, a smaller day boat, which will take you further into the lesser-visited corners of the bay for a full day of exploration.

Your first destination is Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, the largest and arguably the most impressive in Ha Long Bay. The cave covers an expansive 10,000 square metres and features two distinct chambers. The outer chamber welcomes visitors with dramatic stalactites that hang like chandeliers from the 30-metre-high ceiling. A narrow passage leads to the inner chamber, dubbed the “opera house” for its theatrical grandeur. This spectacular space includes a reflective pond, lush plant life, and surreal rock formations that have developed over millions of years. The acoustics, ambient bird calls, and trickling water add to its natural atmosphere, with occasional sightings of monkeys in the trees nearby.

After the cave visit, return to the boat where you can unwind in the shaded lounge or enjoy a traditional iced Vietnamese coffee as you drift past islets and sea cliffs. The day continues with kayaking through a labyrinth of limestone towers and calm waterways. With cliffs rising straight from the sea and dense greenery on every side, the feeling is both adventurous and meditative. It’s an ideal time for photography or quiet reflection as you float through this surreal marine landscape.

Next, visit a floating pearl farm tucked away in a quiet cove. Here, you'll observe the delicate and patient process of pearl cultivation. A local technician demonstrates how oysters are seeded by hand and explains the lengthy timeline from implantation to harvest. This visit provides insight into the livelihood of local communities and the environmental factors that influence pearl quality. It’s a rare opportunity to understand the precision and care required to produce something so beautiful from the sea.

Later in the afternoon, return to the main ship and enjoy some personal time. You might choose to relax on the deck with a book, book a spa treatment, or simply watch the sky change colours during the magical “blue hour.” Dinner is served on board, with a multi-course menu featuring Vietnamese and international favourites. After your meal, try your hand at squid fishing with the crew or enjoy a drink from the bar under the starlit sky. The calm, quiet night on the bay offers a peaceful close to a full and fascinating day.

Start your final morning on the water with tea, coffee, and pastries available in the dining room, or greet the day with a Tai Chi class on the sun deck. As the sun rises over the bay, this slow and deliberate movement helps awaken the body and bring focus to the mind, set against the breath taking backdrop of limestone peaks emerging from still waters.

Afterward, the cruise sets course for Ti Top Island. Originally known as Cat Nang, the island was renamed in 1962 in honour of Russian cosmonaut German Titov, who visited Ha Long Bay with President Ho Chi Minh. Struck by the island’s beauty, Titov’s name was forever linked with the site, symbolising a historic moment of friendship between Vietnam and the Soviet Union.

Upon arrival at the island, you may choose to take a swim in the clear waters, relaxing on a small sandy beach that curves gently beneath towering cliffs. For those seeking a bit more activity, a climb of roughly 400 stone steps leads to the summit of Ti Top, where panoramic views of the bay stretch in every direction. A midway platform also offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to rest while taking in the vibrant shades of green and blue that define the bay’s landscape.

Returning to the boat, you’ll have time for a shower and to freshen up before breakfast is served. As the cruise makes its final passage back to the harbour, enjoy the quiet beauty of Ha Long Bay one last time, relaxing on the sun deck or in the dining room while reflecting on the journey.

Upon disembarkation, your driver will be waiting to transfer you to Noi Bai Airport for your onward flight to Hue. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours through countryside dotted with small villages and rice fields. On arrival in Hue, your local guide will greet you at the airport and accompany you to your hotel in the city centre, a drive of about 30 minutes. After checking in, the rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to spend at leisure - perhaps with a stroll along the Perfume River or simply unwinding at the hotel.

Today offers a meaningful exploration of Hue, delving beyond the surface to reveal the stories and people that shape this historic city. Rather than focusing solely on monuments and museums, this experience allows you to see Hue through the eyes of its residents, gaining insight into their lives, memories, and resilience.

Begin the day with a boat ride along the Perfume River, whose name comes from the blossoms that once drifted downstream from orchards in the hills. As you cruise the calm waters, pass scenes of daily life and glimpse pagodas, gardens, and riverside homes. Disembark in the Phuong Duc area, known for its traditional bronze casting. Visit a small family-run workshop and witness the time-honoured process used to produce ceremonial urns, gongs, and decorative objects. This quiet craft continues despite modernisation and is a reminder of the artisanal skills deeply rooted in the region.

Pause for lunch at a peaceful garden venue hidden just outside the Imperial City. Tucked away from the busy tourist paths, this intimate setting offers views of the citadel’s outer wall and a tranquil environment to enjoy a home-cooked meal. The experience is as much about the atmosphere as the food - a reflection of Hue’s understated charm and culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, visit the Imperial City itself - a UNESCO World Heritage site and once the heart of the Nguyen Dynasty. Walk through its imposing gates and courtyards as your guide shares stories of emperors, court rituals, and royal life. Unlike other historic complexes in Vietnam, Hue’s citadel retains a sense of faded grandeur, shaped by time and war yet still echoing with power and elegance.

The day concludes with a unique and personal encounter: a meeting with a descendant of the Nguyen royal family. In conversation with this modern-day princess, you’ll hear reflections on the legacy of the dynasty, stories passed down through generations, and the ways in which Vietnam’s history continues to shape its present. This rare opportunity to connect directly with the past brings a human dimension to Hue’s regal history and rounds off a truly enriching day.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin the scenic journey from Hue to Hoi An. The drive takes approximately three hours, following National Highway 1 and winding through central Vietnam’s most stunning coastal and mountain landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass rice fields, lagoons, and traditional villages, but the highlight of the route is the dramatic Hai Van Pass.

Rising 500 metres above sea level and stretching for nearly 20 kilometres, Hai Van Pass offers panoramic views of the South China Sea and forested hills that roll toward the horizon. Historically, it marked the division between the ancient kingdoms of Đại Việt and Champa and still separates the cooler, often mistier north from the sunnier south. Stop at a viewpoint along the pass to admire Lang Co Bay below, its long white sand beach fringed by a peaceful fishing village and shallow blue lagoon.

As you descend toward Da Nang, your first stop will be the Museum of Cham Sculpture. Established in 1915 by French archaeologists, the museum houses the world's most extensive collection of Cham artefacts. The sculptures, many of which date from the 7th to 15th centuries, reflect the spiritual and artistic traditions of the Champa Kingdom, offering a fascinating glimpse into this lesser-known part of Vietnam’s cultural past.

From there, continue to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. A revered pilgrimage destination, the mountains are home to a maze of caves, shrines, and Buddhist temples hidden within their slopes. You can climb a stairway to a viewing platform for sweeping views over Da Nang and the coast, or explore the Huyen Khong Cave, where natural light streams in from above, illuminating ancient altars and statues.

After the visit, resume your drive toward Hoi An. The final stretch of the journey follows the coastline, offering occasional glimpses of the East Sea. Upon arrival in Hoi An, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. This charming riverside town, once a major trading port, will serve as the base for your next few days of discovery.

Begin your morning with a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s Central Market. After being picked up from your hotel, arrive early to catch the market at its most dynamic, when the day’s freshest produce is being delivered and local vendors are setting up their stalls. This is the best time to observe the morning rhythm of the town and see how food, flowers, spices and seafood are traded between locals. Your guide will point out regional ingredients and explain how they are used in traditional dishes.

From the market, continue into the maze of alleyways that make up the heart of Hoi An. These narrow streets are home to countless family-run workshops, where artisans practise traditional crafts passed down through generations. As you wander, you will visit a handful of these small businesses, perhaps watching tailors at work, observing how rice noodles are made, or seeing how silk is woven by hand. You will also pass small temples, quiet courtyards and community spaces where locals gather. The people of Hoi An are friendly and curious, and they are often eager to chat or share a bit of their story.

Pause mid-morning at a riverside veranda for a refreshing drink while overlooking the Thu Bon River. This scenic spot offers a glimpse into the town’s maritime past, where boats still pass by slowly, carrying everything from fishing nets to market goods. It is a peaceful break and a chance to take in the beauty of the surroundings before continuing on foot through the historic centre.

Back in the Old Town, your guide will lead you along lantern-lit streets lined with merchant houses, Chinese assembly halls and preserved shophouses. Learn about the city’s multicultural past, hear local legends, and pass through the Japanese Covered Bridge, one of Hoi An’s most photographed landmarks. End the morning at a local family home, where you will take part in a hands-on workshop to create your own handmade paper lantern. These brightly coloured creations are an iconic part of Hoi An’s charm and a meaningful souvenir to take home.

Begin your day with a short drive to a quiet village about 20 minutes from Hoi An’s Old Town, where a local family will warmly welcome you into their traditional home. Over a freshly brewed iced coffee with condensed milk, known as ca phe sua da, hear stories about the community’s efforts to preserve the character and traditions of their neighbourhood, even as the surrounding region modernises.

From here, begin your cycling journey through a patchwork of rice paddies and narrow village paths. The pace is gentle and relaxed, offering plenty of time to take in the scenery and stop for encounters with local artisans. Your first stop may be a small rice mill, where you can observe both old and modern methods of rice processing. It’s a fascinating look at how traditional practices coexist with newer technologies in rural Vietnam.

Continue your ride to meet a husband-and-wife team who still produce incense by hand, shaping and drying it with care using age-old techniques. As you pedal on, you will pass boat builders and fishermen along the riverbanks, quietly tending to their vessels. Stop at the local whale temple, a place of spiritual significance to fishing communities, and learn how the ocean has shaped village beliefs and customs. Visit a rice wine distiller and a family of textile weavers who produce vibrant fabrics using a handloom, preserving a craft passed down through generations.

End your cycling adventure by climbing into a coracle - a small round bamboo boat - for a gentle ride on the river. Try your hand at traditional fishing methods, a skill still practised by many families in the region. Afterward, return to the family home to enjoy a simple but delicious local meal, served with a cold drink. It is a rewarding and enriching experience that connects you with the people, landscapes and cultural traditions that make up daily life in the Vietnamese countryside.

After breakfast, meet your guide and driver for the transfer to Danang Airport, located about 30 minutes from Hoi An. From here, board your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your local guide at the airport’s exit gate. The drive into the city centre takes roughly one hour, passing through a sprawling metropolis that offers a stark contrast to the slower pace of central Vietnam. Once you arrive at your hotel, check in and take a moment to relax before beginning your exploration of the south.

In the afternoon, your guide will meet you at the hotel for a half-day sightseeing tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Begin at the Reunification Palace, once the residence of the President of South Vietnam and the site where the Vietnam War came to a dramatic end in 1975. Continue on to the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office, both reminders of the city’s colonial past. While the cathedral is currently undergoing restoration and only open for worship services until 2027, its imposing red brick façade and twin bell towers remain a striking sight.

As you explore the city, you’ll notice how modern skyscrapers and bustling traffic blend with Buddhist temples, traditional markets and elegant French-era architecture. This dynamic mix reflects the many layers of influence that shape Ho Chi Minh City today. Your final stop is the War Remnants Museum, where exhibits and photographs offer a powerful look at the human cost of conflict, particularly from the American War. After the visit, return to your hotel to rest before the evening’s adventure.

Later that evening, join your guide once again for a unique exploration of Saigon’s nightlife. Hop on the back of a vintage Vespa and ride pillion through the lively streets, weaving through the city’s traffic just like the locals do. The evening begins with cocktails at a rooftop bar, offering sweeping views as the sun sets over the skyline. From there, visit two popular local restaurants to sample regional specialties and classic street food, from fresh seafood to sizzling pancakes.

As the night deepens, your Vespa will take you through Saigon’s lesser-known neighbourhoods, giving you a different perspective of the city after dark. Finish the evening at a live music venue where young locals gather to unwind and enjoy the sounds of Vietnam’s rising musicians. The Vespa tour includes food, drinks, and plenty of stories, so bring your appetite and a sense of fun. After the show, return to your hotel with a new appreciation of Ho Chi Minh City’s energy, creativity and cuisine.

This morning you’ll experience one of southern Vietnam’s most fascinating historical sites in a memorable and comfortable way. After an early pick-up from your hotel, transfer to a pier on the Saigon River and board a speedboat bound for the Cu Chi Tunnels. Travelling by boat allows you to avoid the traffic and large crowds that arrive by bus later in the day. As the boat glides out of the city and into the countryside, enjoy a light breakfast of pastries, sandwiches, and tropical fruit while taking in the shifting scenery along the riverbanks.

The journey itself offers a window into daily life along the Saigon River. You’ll pass stilt houses, farmers at work, and clusters of water hyacinths floating across the current. Your guide will share insights into the river's importance as a life source and transport route, providing context before you arrive at the Cu Chi site. The boat ride takes about 75 to 90 minutes, allowing time to relax and take photographs as you travel through both urban and rural areas.

Upon arrival at the Cu Chi Tunnels, begin your exploration of this extraordinary network of underground passageways used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. The tunnels stretch over 200 kilometres and once served as communication routes, living quarters, and supply lines. Walk through sections of the preserved tunnel system and learn how these complex structures were used for hiding, cooking, and surviving. The exhibits also include booby traps, weapons, and secret entrances that illustrate the ingenuity and resilience of the guerrilla fighters.

Following your tour, reboard your speedboat for the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City. The route back offers more time to absorb the tranquil river scenery and reflect on what you’ve just experienced. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon, leaving plenty of time to enjoy lunch in the city or unwind at your hotel. This tour combines scenic river travel with compelling wartime history and is a rewarding way to better understand Vietnam’s past.

After breakfast, set out on a scenic journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho, the capital of the Mekong Delta. The drive takes approximately 3 hours, passing through verdant countryside, small farming towns, and a landscape dotted with canals, rice fields, and fruit orchards. This region, often referred to as Vietnam’s rice bowl, is rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Upon arrival in Can Tho, begin your exploration with a guided walking tour through the heart of the city. Starting at the central wharf along the Hau River, absorb the vibrant riverside atmosphere. Wooden boats glide by, transporting everything from fish to vegetables, giving you a sense of the city’s life on the water. From here, your guide will take you to the historic Can Tho Prison, a sobering reminder of Vietnam’s colonial past and wartime struggles. The preserved cells and displays tell the story of those who endured imprisonment during French and American occupations.

The tour continues to a nearby Khmer pagoda, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet with a resident monk. Participate in a simple blessing and offering ritual, and gain insight into the spiritual practices of the Khmer community, which has been part of the delta’s cultural fabric for centuries. From there, visit a Vietnamese temple to observe the contrasting architecture and religious traditions, highlighting the multi-ethnic identity of the region.

As you walk along De Tham Street, known for its eclectic street food and small family-run eateries, stop for a taste of a distinctive local snack: mung bean and shrimp wrapped in a delicate rice flour crepe. Served at a longstanding Khmer-Chinese shop, this dish blends cultural influences and reflects Can Tho’s culinary diversity. Stroll through the buzzing Old Market area where outdoor vendors sell everything from herbs and dried fish to handwoven baskets, set against a backdrop of colonial facades and traditional shophouses.

Conclude your walk with a relaxing drink at a café overlooking the river. Watch the sun dip low as locals gather along the promenade and cargo boats cruise past. Return to your hotel to check in and enjoy a quiet evening in Can Tho, where river life, food culture and spiritual tradition intertwine.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge before setting off on a cycling journey that brings you into the heart of rural life in the Mekong Delta. Your route begins with a ride to Phong Dien Market, a bustling local hub known for its vibrant energy and array of fresh produce. Watch as vendors trade seasonal fruit, vegetables, herbs, and daily essentials, with buyers arriving by motorbike, bicycle and boat. It’s a lively start that offers a colourful window into everyday life in the delta.

Continue pedalling through quiet country lanes and shaded village paths, passing gardens overflowing with durian, mangosteen, longan and jackfruit. Along the way, you’ll see locals tending their orchards or transporting produce to nearby markets, a daily rhythm of work closely tied to the land and waterways. As you approach Truong Tay hamlet, the scenery becomes greener and more tranquil. Ride across charming canal bridges, stopping for photos and short breaks to soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Pause at a small local café for a drink and a chance to chat with villagers. These informal moments are often the most memorable - a chance to learn about life in the delta through conversation and observation. From there, continue on to a Khmer Theravada temple, where you can explore the peaceful grounds, observe daily ceremonies and light a stick of incense to mark your visit. The temple is a spiritual centre for the Khmer community and offers insight into the region’s cultural diversity.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant, where the meal might include regional dishes made from the same ingredients you saw in the markets and orchards. Afterwards, you can choose to return to your hotel and rest, or continue exploring on two wheels. Those with more energy can cycle on through Giai Xuan and My Khanh villages, passing more fruit orchards, rice fields, and small workshops that form the lifeblood of the area’s rural economy.

Cycling distance ranges from 20 to 30 kilometres depending on your chosen route. The terrain is mostly flat, making it accessible to guests of most fitness levels. Return to your accommodation in Can Tho for a relaxing evening.

Begin your morning with an early departure by boat as you cruise along the Hau River, one of the main branches of the Mekong Delta. The journey starts at Ninh Kieu Wharf, where you pass riverside homes, fishing boats, and villages coming to life with the break of day. As the sun rises, the river awakens, revealing a flurry of activity unique to this part of Vietnam. Enjoy a light continental breakfast on board while soaking in the peaceful morning light and vibrant riverside scenes.

Your destination is Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most iconic floating market in the Mekong Delta. As you approach, the river begins to fill with wooden boats laden with fresh pineapples, papayas, pumpkins, melons, and countless other products. The traders display their goods by hanging samples from tall bamboo poles, making it easy to see what’s for sale from afar. Your captain will navigate the maze of vessels, giving you a close-up look at this dynamic form of river-based commerce. It’s an extraordinary way to witness the local economy in motion and see how river life continues to shape this region.

What makes Cai Rang particularly remarkable is the dedication of its sellers, many of whom travel from distant provinces and spend days on the water sleeping and living on their boats. The floating market is not just a place to buy and sell, but a meeting point for stories, traditions, and livelihoods that have endured for generations. Your visit supports this living heritage and offers a rare perspective into a way of life that is slowly vanishing as modern roads and supermarkets expand.

After your cruise, return to your hotel to check out and meet your driver for the transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City. The journey from Can Tho to Tan Son Nhat Airport takes around four hours, offering time to reflect on the morning’s unique experiences. Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, connect to your onward flight to Phu Quoc. Once you land, a local driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your resort’s location, the drive into town typically takes around 30 minutes. Spend the evening settling into the island’s relaxed pace, with time at leisure to enjoy the beach or explore the surroundings.

Enjoy a relaxed start to your day with breakfast at your chosen resort. Cassia Cottage offers a quiet beachfront setting, while La Veranda provides colonial elegance and Movenpick Villas cater to guests seeking upscale comforts. After breakfast, you may like to begin with a visit to the nearby Phu Quoc National Park for a short nature walk, or head south for a half-day island-hopping tour by speedboat through the An Thoi archipelago. The clear waters and coral reefs make for excellent snorkelling, and the smaller islands offer a peaceful contrast to the main island’s activity.

For those who prefer a slower pace, spend the morning on the beach or enjoy a spa treatment at your resort. Cassia Cottage has a small wellness centre and garden pool, while La Veranda offers full spa services and beachfront yoga. Guests at Movenpick Villas might choose to relax in a private plunge pool or join a Vietnamese cooking class. When you’re ready for lunch, dine at your resort or explore Duong Dong town for seafood and island specialities such as herring salad or grilled squid.

In the afternoon, visit one of the island’s pepper farms, explore a local fish sauce distillery, or make a stop at Dinh Cau Temple, a lighthouse temple perched on the rocks at the mouth of the Duong Dong River. Alternatively, browse the shops and cafes along Tran Hung Dao Street or relax by the pool with a book and a coconut. For families or guests interested in wildlife, the Vinpearl Safari is also a popular option, with a mix of native and exotic animals in a well-kept setting.

As the day winds down, find a quiet beach spot to watch the sunset or enjoy cocktails at your resort’s bar. Dinner can be casual and local at the night market or more refined with a beachfront table and Vietnamese wine. However you spend your day, Phu Quoc offers the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the island’s natural beauty, culture, and laid-back charm.

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at your resort, followed by a peaceful walk along the shoreline. For a different perspective of the island, consider hiring a bicycle and exploring the quieter inland roads that lead through palm groves, fishing hamlets, and small local farms. Stop at Suoi Tranh Waterfall, a gentle 15-minute walk through shaded forest where you can dip your feet in clear spring water. The waterfall is at its best during the rainy season, but the surrounding forest is enjoyable year-round.

Mid-morning is a good time to visit the Phu Quoc Prison Museum, also known as Coconut Tree Prison. This sobering site provides insight into the island’s role during the Vietnam War, with reconstructed prison cells and informative displays. If you’d prefer something lighter, make your way to a pearl farm along Long Beach to learn about Phu Quoc’s famed pearl industry and see how pearls are cultivated and crafted into jewellery.

In the afternoon, spend some time enjoying the water with a stand-up paddleboard or kayak rental, which are available on many of the island’s calm beaches. You could also book a scuba diving session with a local dive centre, which includes coral reef sites around both the north and south of the island. For something unique, visit Ham Ninh fishing village on the eastern coast, where stilt houses stretch over the water and seafood restaurants offer fresh catch and panoramic views.

As evening falls, head to Sunset Sanato Beach Club for a lively atmosphere, art installations, and beachfront dining. Alternatively, return to your resort for a quiet dinner and a final walk along the sand under the stars. Whether you’ve chosen to be active or relaxed, this second day on Phu Quoc gives you the chance to enjoy a side of the island beyond the beach - from history and nature to simple local life.

Begin your day with a peaceful walk along the shoreline, watching local fishing boats returning with their morning catch. Phu Quoc’s early hours offer a chance to enjoy the island at its quietest, with gentle waves, soft light, and uncrowded beaches. After breakfast, consider exploring parts of the island you may not have yet visited, such as the countryside lanes around Cua Can or the photogenic coastal roads near Ganh Dau, where you can glimpse Cambodia across the water.

Nature lovers may wish to visit Phu Quoc National Park in the island’s north. This protected area is home to a network of jungle trails and a surprising diversity of flora and fauna. A light trek rewards you with views of untouched forest and, depending on your route, a chance to cool off under a small waterfall. If you prefer something more leisurely, head to Tranh Stream, a gentle cascade surrounded by shaded paths and picnic spots.

Another option is to delve into the island’s cultural life with a visit to Ham Ninh fishing village. Known for its stilt houses and blue crab dishes, this traditional community offers a window into life before tourism took hold. Stroll the wooden jetty, browse local shell handicrafts, and stop for lunch at one of the simple seafood restaurants overlooking the bay. From here, you can also visit the nearby Phu Quoc Bee Farm for a short, informative stop.

In the late afternoon, unwind at your resort or choose a final treat, such as a spa treatment or sunset cocktail. Sunset Sanato Beach Club offers both a good beach and playful photo installations, while the quiet stretch of beach near Ong Lang is perfect for one last swim. As the sun dips below the horizon, Phu Quoc’s relaxed pace and varied charm linger in memory.

Spend your final day on Phu Quoc at your own pace, enjoying the island’s coastal beauty one last time. Take a morning stroll along the beach, savour a relaxed breakfast, or enjoy a final swim in the warm sea. If you wish, fit in a gentle activity such as browsing a local market for souvenirs or enjoying a beachfront coffee with views of the horizon.

Hotel check-out time is at noon. Your guide and driver will arrive approximately three hours before your flight to ensure a smooth transfer to Phu Quoc Airport. The drive time from most resorts to the airport is around 30 minutes, depending on location. From there, you’ll board your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City, with time to reflect on the many layers of your journey through Vietnam - from the cultural centres of the north to the vibrant pulse of the south, and the peaceful shores of the island.