8 DAYS
Trip Overview
Traditional Vietnam shifts between lively streets full of scooters, peaceful corners, with food that stands as a destination on its own. Dive into the many flavors of Vietnamese culture and cuisine on this vibrant foodie journey—sample local favorites, meet farmers in the Mekong Delta, and savor unforgettable welcome and farewell dinners at Michelin-starred restaurants.
Itinerary
- Experience the contrast between traditional Hanoi and modern Ho Chi Minh City.
- Cruise overnight through Ha Long Bay’s stunning, karst-dotted seascape.
- Dine at Michelin-starred Gia in Hanoi and Anan in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Ride a Vespa through Ho Chi Minh City and sample hidden local delicacies.
- Explore the Mekong Delta’s rural landscapes and meet local farmers who shape Vietnam’s diverse cuisine.
day 1: Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi, the cultural heart of Vietnam, where you are met and privately transferred to your hotel.
Hotel du parc Hanoi
None
day 2: See Hanoi
See Hanoi on a private tour: Explore Ho Chi Minh’s house, where the revolutionary leader once lived while pursuing Vietnam’s independence. Continue to the lotus-shaped One Pillar Pagoda, which marks the beginning of Vietnam’s independence from China.
Then, visit temple of Literature, Hanoi’s first university, before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.
Sip Hanoi’s famous egg coffee at a distinctive café, then head to Hoa Lo Prison, the infamous “Hanoi Hilton,” where American POWs spent time during the war.
Return to your hotel for a welcome cocktail. In the evening, sit down to a welcome dinner at Gia, a Michelin-starred restaurant that reimagines traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Hotel du parc Hanoi
Breakfast
day 3: Hanoi's old quarter
Enjoy a rickshaw ride around Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and then explore Hanoi town on foot on a guided walking tour. Taste Hanoian street food and specialties, including pho noodle soup and bun cha grilled pork, as well as local beers.
Later, gather for a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Theater. Tonight, experience the dinner at another local restaurant.
Hotel du parc Hanoi
Breakfast
day 4: Cruising at Halong Bay
Travel to Halong, where you board your vessel, for a cruise of picturesque Ha Long.
Relax on deck as we sail through the countless islets, striking karst outcrops rising dramatically from the emerald waters. Once anchored, begin exploring this secret hideaway of beaches, caves and coves.
Tonight, gather for dinner at the onboard, and then rest in your cabin to enjoy a restful night’s sleep as the waves lap gently against the hull.
Victory Star cruises
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
day 5: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City
Sunrise Over the Bay of Tonkin; your day begin with optional traditional Tai Chi exercises on the sundeck, followed by breakfast. Set out for a morning excursion among the towering limestone pinnacles.
enjoy the brunch on board as cruise sails back to port. Meet your driver to drive to Hai Phong for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.
La Vela Saigon
Breakfast
day 6: City tour of Saigon
Start your day with a cyclo ride to Tao Dan Park. Stroll through this neighborhood hub and watch locals practice tai chi or play badminton. Stop for a cup of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee, then continue to a shop serving Banh Mi — a crispy baguette filled with egg, pâté, cold cuts, or pickled vegetables. Afterward, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities:
- Discover Vietnamese coffee and culture with a local barista and learn to brew popular blends.
- Savor the ultimate noodle experience, sampling beyond pho from street vendors in small alleys.
- Cycle the countryside through villages, markets, and vegetable gardens, observing local life.
Tonight, enjoy the vespa foodie tour around the town, experience life of a local on a back of motorbike.
La Vela Saigon
Breakfast
day 9: Departure
After breakfast, privately transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
Breakfast