Highlights of Vietnam

On arrival, we have airport transfers arranged for you. Relish the warm embrace of Vietnam and her welcoming people, who will touch you with their humility and entrepreneurial spirit throughout your journey across this intoxicating land. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a dinner at a local restaurant.

Ready to step into Vietnam’s past? You’ll visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university from the 11th century. It’s a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture—and if you’ve got a 100,000 dong note, you’ll spot it right there. Next, hop on a cyclo, a three-wheeled bicycle taxi, and cruise through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, known for its 36 streets once home to artisan guilds. You’ll also view the striking Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and then go inside the One Pillar Pagoda and Ho Chi Minh’s peaceful wooden house. Then, meet Mr. Liem Phan, a skilled artisan who brings the ancient art of water puppetry to life. Hear the story behind this unique tradition, enjoy a show, and even try your hand at puppet-making. End the day at your leisure, soaking in Hanoi’s charm and culture.

Settle in aboard your Halong Bay boat before meeting your Cruise Manager and crew. As you cruise southeast, take in the limestone karsts of Trong Mai, Ngon Tay and Con Coc Islets over a relaxing lunch. Step ashore in a coastal village where you’ll travel by bike or electric cart, meeting locals who’ll introduce you to northern Vietnamese life. Pause at a local cafe to shake up a refreshing glass of mojitea or roll delicate bánh cuốn alongside your host. Returning to the boat, you’ll moor for the night and sit down to a Vietnamese dinner with your fellow travelers. A rice wine tasting rounds out the evening with a taste of local tradition.

Join a Tai Chi session as the sun rises over Halong Bay, a UNESCO-listed landscape. After breakfast, you’ll explore Cua Van Floating Village, either by kayak or traditional rowing boat. This quiet water community is home to generations of fishermen, and your visit offers a closer look at how life continues to flow on the bay. Enjoy the final views of the bay as you cruise back to the Wharf, then head to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Danang. Transfer to Hoi An, where your evening is free—an ideal time to explore the tailoring capital of the world and its old town.

Step into Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with roots as a 15th-century trading port. Once a bustling hub for merchants from China, Japan, and Europe, this town now welcomes you to explore its rich history and blend of cultures. Stroll through narrow lanes lined with ancient merchant houses, cross the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, and admire the intricate carvings of the Chaozhou Assembly Hall. Afterward, visit the market, where you’ll be greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh spices and the shimmer of colorful silk. Browse the market stalls and you’ll certainly find a Hoi An treasure to bring home. Your afternoon is free but why not try one of our Optional Experiences.

Spend the morning at leisure—explore Hoi An at your own pace or relax at your hotel. Alternatively, join one of our Optional Experiences: visit the ancient My Son Sanctuary or uncover history at the Ky Anh tunnels in Tam Thanh village. In the afternoon, Dive into Culture at the Red Bridge Cooking School. Start with a welcome drink at Hai Cafe, shop for fresh ingredients at the market, then take a boat to your private cooking class, enjoying your creations with a river view.

Hoi An’s waterways, a lifeline for villagers and a window into its past. Visit a fishing village to learn the art of casting Vietnamese fishing nets and try paddling traditional round basket boats through coconut-palm groves. Hear stories of the area’s wartime history as you cruise back with a refreshing drink in hand. This afternoon, cross the spectacular Hai Van Pass, famed for its breathtaking views, and stop at Red Beach, where American marines first landed in Danang. Wrap up the day in Hue, Vietnam’s imperial capital, for an overnight stay steeped in history.