Signature Luxury in Vietnam
18 Days / 17 Nights
Culture - Scenery - Coast - Cities - Slow travel - Food
Private tailor-made / Signature luxury circuit
Lan Ha cruise - Yên Tử retreat - Coastal finale
The Essence
Key Highlights
- Time in Hanoi’s old-world streets, cafés, and cultural landmarks as a gentle introduction to Vietnam
- Spiritual and scenic immersion at Yên Tử Mountain, combining cable cars, pagodas, and contemplative walks
- Overnight Lan Ha–Ha Long Bay cruising on a boutique 5-star vessel with curated activities and full-board dining
- Mountain landscapes and local encounters in Sapa, with rice terraces, villages, and cooler highland air
- Imperial history in Hue and riverside ambience in Hoi An, with lantern-lit evenings and old-town wandering
- Relaxed coastal luxury in Quy Nhon paired with a vibrant, modern finale in Ho Chi Minh City
Itinerary
Day 1: Capella Hanoi, Hanoi
Day Itinerary
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be met and transferred in comfort to your luxury hotel in the city centre. Enjoy a smooth, private journey as you take in your first impressions of Vietnam’s elegant capital.
After check-in, the remainder of the day is at leisure—perfect for unwinding after your travels, enjoying the hotel’s refined amenities, or simply relaxing as you ease into the rhythm of Hanoi at your own pace.
Overnight: Capella Hanoi
Capella Hanoi offers luxurious accommodation moments away from the Hanoi Opera House and Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Each of the property’s 47 guest rooms and suites are individually styled with operatic memorabilia that pay tribute to Opera’s legendary artists, composers, designers and performances. Guests can enjoy delicious authentic flavours at the on-site Backstage restaurant as well as bohemian cocktails and ambrosial sweets at Diva’s Lounge.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 2:
Legacy Yen Tu MGallery, Quang Ninh Province
Day Itinerary
Begin your day with an immersive half-day exploration of Hanoi, uncovering the city’s history, culture, and timeless charm. Your experience starts with a visit to the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the preserved body of Vietnam’s revered leader, affectionately known as “Uncle Ho,” lies in state. Continue to Ho Chi Minh Stilt House, a serene wooden residence set beside a lotus pond, offering insight into his simple way of life.
Next, soak in the vibrant energy of the Old Quarter during a one-hour cyclo ride. Glide through narrow streets alive with local activity, traditional shops, and daily commerce, while learning about Hanoi’s distinctive tube houses and the cultural stories woven into the city’s fabric. This enriching tour is ideally enjoyed between 8:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Following the tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense), sampling authentic Vietnamese flavours at your leisure.
In the afternoon, transfer to Yên Tử Mountain, a spiritually significant landscape known for its peaceful atmosphere and forested peaks. Upon arrival, check in at the elegant Legacy Yên Tử – MGallery, where refined design inspired by ancient architecture meets modern luxury—an ideal setting to unwind and connect with Vietnam’s spiritual heritage.
Overnight: Legacy Yen Tu MGallery
Located in Uong Bi City, Legacy Yen Tu MGallery is close to Yen Tu mountain and Yen Tu village where visitors can engage in trekking and adventure activities. The rooms feature Wi-Fi access, automatic wake-up calls and minibars. The hotel features a rustic interior, comfortable ambience as well as healthy local and international cuisine with a focus on vegetarian dishes. Guests can choose to dine indoors or outdoors for their afternoon tea, snacks, coffee, evening time cocktails and entertainment. It features views of the village.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 3: Legacy Yen Tu MGallery, Quang Ninh Province
Day Itinerary
After breakfast at your hotel, set out with your guide to explore the sacred landscapes of Yên Tử Mountain, one of Vietnam’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Your journey begins with a scenic one-way cable car ride to the first station, offering sweeping views over forested mountains as you ascend toward Hoa Yên Pagoda, a peaceful spiritual centre nestled among ancient trees.
From here, continue on foot to Mot Mai Pagoda (formerly Am Ly Trần), a quiet and contemplative site far removed from the bustle of daily life. This tranquil walk allows you to truly absorb the calm and sacred atmosphere of the mountain.
Next, board the second cable car to reach An Kỳ Sinh and visit Thiên Trúc Pagoda, also known as the Bronze Pagoda. Remarkable for being constructed entirely of bronze and positioned at the highest point of Yên Tử, it offers both spiritual significance and breathtaking panoramic views.
From the summit, enjoy a guided trek downhill, stopping to visit the revered Emperor Trần Buddha Statue, followed by Vân Tiêu Pagoda and Giải Oan Temple, each rich in history and symbolism. The walk down provides a deeper connection to the landscape and the spiritual journey of Yên Tử.
Return to your hotel to relax and soak in the serene surroundings. Lunch will be at a local restaurant (at your own expense). The remainder of the day is at leisure—perfect for enjoying the peaceful ambiance of your hotel and reflecting on the day’s meaningful experiences.
Note: The ascent is by cable car, with a scenic trek down the mountain.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 4:
Orchid Premium Cruise
Day Itinerary
Welcome aboard the elegant Orchid Premium Cruise, where refined comfort meets one of the world’s most spectacular natural settings. Set sail into the breathtaking beauty of Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its dramatic limestone karsts, hidden lagoons, and serene emerald waters.
Your overnight journey is designed as a truly immersive luxury experience. From the moment you step on board, enjoy personalised service, beautifully appointed spaces, and a carefully curated itinerary that balances exploration and relaxation. Full-board gourmet dining is included, featuring fresh local flavours served against ever-changing panoramic views.
During the cruise, choose from a range of enriching activities both on board and ashore—explore ancient caves, glide through tranquil waters by kayak, encounter unique marine life, or simply unwind on deck with a glass of wine as the sun sets over the bay. Whether you prefer gentle adventure or quiet indulgence, the experience is tailored to suit your pace and interests.
From sunrise over misty karsts to peaceful evenings beneath the stars, this overnight cruise promises unforgettable moments in one of Vietnam’s most magical landscapes.
Please note: Detailed itineraries may vary and are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise company.
For the most up-to-date cruise program, please refer to the official Orchid Premium Cruise itinerary.
Overnight: Orchid Premium Cruise
As the latest product line of the Pelican Group, Orchid Premium Cruise is portrayed as the stunningly alluring orchid flower in the middle of Lan Ha Bay. With 5 rooms luxuriously designed in Indochine style, Orchid Premium is proud to be the standard model of a 5-star cruise line, promising to bring the best experiences and safety for their guests as they discover Vietnam’s famous World Heritage Ha Long Bay – Lan Ha Bay.
There are many reasons for choosing Orchid Premium Cruise, as it offers guests a unique journey, visiting the most beautiful sites on Lan Ha Bay. The ship’s luxurious design and modern equipment ensure absolute security and safety. The small number of rooms and outstanding room service and facilities provide maximum comfort for travellers, while the large outdoor Jacuzzi offers maximum relaxation.
On the ship, guests will also find rich, unique cuisine that is the perfect combination of Asian and European styles, prepared and presented by top chefs from Vietnam. The friendly and enthusiastic staff on board are proficient in English and knowledgeable about Vietnamese culture as well as the cruise destinations.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 5:
Capella Hanoi, Hanoi
Day Itinerary
After disembarking from your cruise, meet your driver for a comfortable transfer back to Hanoi. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
This evening, dive deep into the flavours, stories, and hidden corners of Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter on an expertly curated walking food tour that reveals the city through its cuisine and communities.
Begin on Cầu Gỗ Street, at the southern edge of the Old Quarter, with tastings of Hanoi classics such as egg coffee, green papaya salad, and steamed sticky rice cake. From here, weave northeast through backstreets to Hàng Chiếu Street, sampling a comforting mixed broth with water celery and brown flat noodles.
Continue through a narrow, shared alley used by local residents, then pass through a community “dark tunnel” to reach Nguyễn Siêu Street, where you’ll taste freshwater crab noodle soup and a fragrant chicken noodle dish. Step inside a traditional Vietnamese home hidden behind bustling shopfronts and, over conversation with your host, gain rare insight into Old Quarter life through the memories of an 80-year-old Hanoian.
Next, visit Thanh Hà Market, observing how locals buy and sell everyday ingredients. Follow an unseen passage to the northern end of the quarter to sample carp fish noodle soup, before heading south through the lively Đồng Xuân Market and its bustling food alley.
On Lãn Ông Street, stop at a state-owned shop to taste traditional medicinal herbs rice liquor—often described as the soul of the Old Quarter. Discover how fresh rice noodles are made during an exclusive visit to a local supplier, then on Bát Đàn Street, enjoy one of Hanoi’s most beloved beef noodle soups (served for breakfast and dinner).
Pass through the atmospheric train alley for a coffee stop before completing your circular walk back where you began—ending an evening that captures the true heart, soul, and flavour of Hanoi.
Overnight: Capella Hanoi
Capella Hanoi offers luxurious accommodation moments away from the Hanoi Opera House and Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Each of the property’s 47 guest rooms and suites are individually styled with operatic memorabilia that pay tribute to Opera’s legendary artists, composers, designers and performances. Guests can enjoy delicious authentic flavours at the on-site Backstage restaurant as well as bohemian cocktails and ambrosial sweets at Diva’s Lounge.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 6:
Hotel De La Coupole, Sapa
Day Itinerary
Breakfast at the hotel! Enjoy a scenic private overland transfer to Sa Pa, winding through dramatic mountain roads and terraced landscapes that signal your arrival in Vietnam’s highlands.
This afternoon, set out on an awe-inspiring journey to Fansipan Mountain, revered as the Roof of Indochina. Departing from Sapa, ascend the mountain by cable car, gliding above lush forests and deep valleys while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views.
At the summit, take time to explore, breathe in the crisp alpine air, and admire sweeping vistas that stretch across northern Vietnam and beyond. As the sun begins to dip, the landscape transforms into a magical palette of light and shadow—an unforgettable moment to capture and savour before descending back to Sapa.
After your excursion, check in at the iconic Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery by Sofitel, a masterpiece of haute couture-inspired design blended with hill-tribe influences. Settle into refined luxury and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, surrounded by the cool mountain air and elegant comforts of your hotel.
Overnight: Hotel De La Coupole
Boasting incomparable views of the Sapa valley and the famous rice fields, the Hotel De La Coupole is a Bill Bensley masterpiece designed by fusing the local culture, French history and vibrant modern ambience of Sapa into one impressive property. Accommodation consists of 249 luxurious rooms and suites, each equipped with premium bedding, luxury bathroom products and full-length doors leading to balconies overlooking the hotel’s pretty courtyard garden. The hotel also features a restaurant, a bar and a patisserie, each with a unique yet synchronous design and offers refined French cuisine infused with local ingredients and a carefully-curated wine list. Guests can take a dip in the hotel’s breath-taking heated indoor pool, sweat it out in the well-appointed fitness centre, or drift away with some pampering in the Nuages Spa. The hotel also offers a Bobbins kids club, where children can create tribal-inspired items, colouring books, tribal patterns and stuffed animals.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 7:
Hotel De La Coupole, Sapa
Day Itinerary
Depart Sa Pa at approximately 8:30 AM by private vehicle, beginning a beautifully paced journey through some of northern Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes. The first 16 km unfolds along the foothills of the Hoàng Liên Mountain Range, with sweeping views of Fansipan Peak and the iconic terraced rice fields of the Mường Hoa Valley. Enjoy several photo stops to take in the scale and serenity of this dramatic scenery.
Arrive at Su Pan commune for a short visit to Hoa Su Pan, a small and intimate hamlet. Spend time walking through the village, observing daily life and gaining insight into local traditions in a setting far removed from the usual tourist trails.
Continue southward to the lush Mường Bò Valley in Thanh Phu commune. Here, enjoy a gentle walk of around an hour along wide village paths, visiting traditional stilt houses and experiencing warm local hospitality. Lunch is served in a local home—an authentic, home-cooked meal that offers a true taste of regional life.
In the afternoon, take a short drive along a rocky rural road to My Son village. Spend time exploring this charming settlement on foot, learning about the community’s distinctive culture and customs. Continue onward for approximately 10 km to Nam Cang, home to one of the region’s most prosperous and picturesque villages, set amid the scenic Nam Sai Valley. The journey itself is a highlight, offering peaceful countryside views and a sense of deep connection with the landscape.
By mid-afternoon, begin your drive back to Sapa along the same scenic route, arriving with a richer understanding of the region’s cultural diversity and a collection of unforgettable mountain memories.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 8:
Ancient Hue Garden Houses, Hue
Day Itinerary
At the appropriate time, enjoy a seamless private transfer to Noi Bai International Airport, where you will be assisted for your onward flight to Hue.
Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and escorted by private transfer to your hotel in the heart of Hue. Settle into your refined surroundings and enjoy a smooth check-in experience.
The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax and unwind, or simply soak in the timeless charm and tranquil atmosphere of this former imperial capital.
Overnight: Ancient Hue Garden Houses
The Ancient Hue Garden Houses are ideally located at the edge of the Perfume River in the historic village of Kim Long. The accommodation is spacious and traditionally decorated, each house fitted with a private terrace, sitting area, TV, private bathroom, hairdryer and an air-conditioner. Guests can enjoy dining at the onsite restaurant, which serves mixes of local specialities with Asian and European flavours to create memorable, modern-day versions of royal feasts. Accompanying the fine dining experience are creative cocktails that blend premium liquors with local fruits and an impressive international wine list. Additional amenities and services include a swimming pool, spa and magnificent gardens. Offsite activities include yoga, kite flying, lunch with a local family and a cycling tour.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 9:
Ancient Hue Garden Houses, Hue
Day Itinerary
Begin your morning with a leisurely cyclo ride as your expert guide escorts you into the historic heart of Hue, offering an elegant and immersive way to experience the city.
Your first stop is the magnificent Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former seat of power of the Nguyen Dynasty. Explore the Citadel, Royal City, and the Forbidden Purple City—once home to 13 emperors, along with their consorts and court officials. As you wander through grand gates, ceremonial halls, and tranquil courtyards, gain insight into Vietnam’s imperial past and royal traditions.
Continue onward to the serene Tu Hieu Pagoda, nestled amid lush gardens and pine forests. This peaceful Buddhist temple offers a moment of quiet reflection, known for its spiritual significance and calming ambiance—a graceful contrast to the grandeur of the Citadel.
Next, visit the extraordinary Tomb of Khai Dinh, regarded as the most elaborate and opulent royal tomb in Vietnam. Unlike traditional Vietnamese tombs, this architectural masterpiece blends Eastern and Western influences, incorporating elements of Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and French design. Marvel at the intricate mosaics crafted from porcelain, ceramics, and colored glass sourced from France, China, and Japan—an awe-inspiring testament to imperial artistry.
Return to your hotel in the afternoon and enjoy time at leisure to relax and rejuvenate.
As evening descends, embark on a private cruise along the enchanting Perfume River. Glide gently across the water as Hue’s landmarks shimmer in the twilight, their reflections dancing on the calm river surface.
Indulge in an exquisite dinner onboard, featuring a curated selection of local specialties and international cuisine, served in an intimate and romantic setting. With soft river breezes, ambient lighting, and the timeless beauty of Hue surrounding you, this unforgettable evening offers the perfect conclusion to a day steeped in history, culture, and elegance.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 10:
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Hoi An, Hoi An
Day Itinerary
Set out on one of Vietnam’s most scenic overland journeys as you travel from Hue to Da Nang, crossing the legendary Hai Van Pass. This dramatic coastal road winds gracefully through emerald mountains before opening up to sweeping views of the South China Sea.
At the summit, pause to admire breathtaking panoramas where mist-covered peaks meet endless blue waters—an unforgettable visual contrast that has earned the pass its reputation as one of the most beautiful drives in Southeast Asia. As you descend toward Da Nang, the landscape transforms effortlessly from rugged highlands to sun-kissed coastline, making this transfer a journey to be savored rather than rushed.
Arrive at the iconic Ba Na Hills, a spectacular hilltop retreat nestled high above the plains. Ascend via one of the world’s most impressive cable car systems, enjoying sweeping aerial views of dense forests and rolling mountains below.
At the summit, explore a charming French-inspired village complete with cobbled streets, elegant architecture, and manicured gardens. Walk across the world-famous Golden Bridge, dramatically held aloft by giant stone hands, before discovering the lively Fantasy Park.
Continue your exploration with visits to Linh Ung Pagoda, the atmospheric Debay Wine Cellar, and the picturesque French Village Church. Enjoy a leisurely lunch amid the cool mountain air, surrounded by panoramic vistas that make Ba Na Hills truly unforgettable.
In the late afternoon, descend and continue onward to Hoi An, carrying with you beautiful memories of a day filled with natural beauty, culture, and architectural wonder.
Overnight: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Hoi An
Resting on a tranquil one kilometre stretch of the pristine China Beach, near the ancient trading port of Hoi An, is a luxury resort and residential enclave known as Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Hoi An. The resort features 60 beautiful one-bedroom villas and 40 pool villas. Each occupies its own section of landscaped gardens and boasts views of the east sea and nearby Cham Islands.
Spaciousness is the essence and understated architecture, discernible by split-level interiors and wooden platforms, adds a distinctive touch to the overall setting. Resort amenities include gourmet restaurants, multiple infinity swimming pools, gym, tropical spa and extensive recreational facilities to offer guests a haven for every holiday desire.
Ideally located 30 kilometres south of Danang and 11 kilometres north of the historical town of Hoi An on Vietnam’s central coast, Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Hoi An complements spectacular beachfront living with renowned cultural historical attractions that reflect the true spirit of Indochina.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 11:
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Hoi An, Hoi An
Day Itinerary
Enjoy a relaxed day at your own pace in the timeless charm of Hoi An. Wake up to a leisurely breakfast and take the day as it comes—whether you choose to unwind at your resort, explore the town’s lantern-lined streets, or simply soak in the serene riverside atmosphere.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 12:
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Hoi An, Hoi An
Day Itinerary
Set off on a stylish open-air Jeep journey through the scenic countryside surrounding Hoi An, offering an intimate look at rural life and traditional craftsmanship.
Begin with a visit to a local farm, where you’ll gain insight into the daily rhythms of Vietnamese farmers and enjoy a hands-on experience—an authentic and enriching connection to the land. Continue onward to a bamboo artisan workshop, where skilled local craftsmen transform bamboo into elegant, functional works of art.
Drive onward to Cua Dai Bridge, stopping to admire sweeping views over the tranquil Thu Bon River, before visiting a nearby fishing village that reflects the region’s deep connection to the sea.
Cross over to the serene Cam Kim Island, a peaceful enclave largely untouched by mass tourism, where authentic village life unfolds amid lush landscapes. The journey continues to Thanh Ha Village, renowned for its centuries-old ceramic tradition. Visit the region’s only ceramic museum to learn about this enduring art form and its cultural significance.
The tour concludes with a comfortable return to your hotel, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of Hoi An’s countryside, heritage, and artisanal soul.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 13:
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas , Quy Nhon
Day Itinerary
Check out from Anantara Hoi An Resort in the early morning.
After check-out, enjoy a comfortable private transfer to Da Nang Railway Station, where your luxury rail experience begins.
Board The Vietage by Anantara for an unforgettable railway journey through the heart of Central Vietnam. This exclusive carriage redefines train travel, blending old-world elegance with modern indulgence. As the train glides past lush countryside, dramatic mountains, and sweeping coastal vistas, settle into plush seating and enjoy impeccable service.
Your journey is complemented by gourmet dining, curated beverages, and a serene atmosphere designed for relaxation and appreciation of the scenery. This iconic rail experience beautifully connects the cultural charm of Hoi An with the tranquil coastline of Quy Nhon, making the journey itself a highlight of your travels.
Upon arrival in Quy Nhon, you will be met by your private driver and transferred seamlessly to your resort.
Check in at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, where secluded luxury, ocean views, and refined tranquility await—setting the perfect tone for the next chapter of your journey.
Overnight: Anantara Quy Nhon Villas
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas are situated in Vietnam, overlooking the Bay of Quy Nhon. The resort features 26 villas that are equipped with Wi-Fi, coffee machines, private pools, and complimentary smartphones. The resort offers guests an on-site restaurant, a pool bar, lobby lounge, health club, in-villa martial arts, Vietnamese cooking classes, and a spa. Guests may spend the day exploring the local attractions, such as Thap Doi Towers, Quang Trung Museum, and Ky Co Beach.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 14:
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas , Quy Nhon
Day Itinerary
Wake up to the serene coastal beauty of Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, where the day unfolds at an unhurried, indulgent pace.
Today, enjoy a refined and immersive culinary journey with the resort’s expert chefs at Sea Fire Salt Restaurant. Begin with an introduction to fresh, locally sourced produce from the surrounding region, followed by a live cooking demonstration showcasing authentic coastal Vietnamese flavours and techniques.
After the demonstration, savour a beautifully presented al fresco lunch, served overlooking the tranquil bay—where ocean breezes, panoramic views, and thoughtfully crafted dishes elevate the experience into a memorable gastronomic affair.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Relax by your private pool, unwind on the pristine beach, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply soak in the quiet luxury and natural beauty that define Anantara Quy Nhon.
A perfect balance of culture, cuisine, and calm—designed for effortless indulgence.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 15:
Park Hyatt Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Day Itinerary
This morning, your private driver will escort you to Phu Cat Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately known as Saigon. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred in comfort to the city centre for a seamless hotel check-in.
Check-in: Park Hyatt Saigon
Settle into one of Saigon’s most iconic luxury addresses, where French colonial elegance meets contemporary refinement—an oasis of calm in the heart of the city.
5:00 PM | Saigon’s Secret Cocktail Experience (3 Hours)
As evening falls, step into Saigon’s hidden nightlife scene with an exclusive, curated cocktail experience designed for discerning travellers. Led by a knowledgeable local host, this immersive walking tour takes you beyond the obvious—into secret bars and concealed venues often unknown even to seasoned locals.
You may find yourself sipping cocktails in a converted apartment turned artful café, discovering a discreet speakeasy helmed by one of Vietnam’s top mixologists, or exploring an experimental bar dedicated to locally crafted spirits. Each stop reveals a distinct story, passionate bartenders, and expertly crafted cocktails infused with exotic Asian ingredients, carefully selected after extensive research and tasting.
As you stroll through Saigon’s energetic streets between venues, you’ll also catch glimpses of key city landmarks—paired with fascinating, untold stories that bring Saigon’s layered past and vibrant present to life.
An evening that blends flavour, storytelling, and discovery—offering a truly insider perspective on Saigon after dark.
Overnight: Park Hyatt Saigon
Park Hyatt Saigon is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It is located near the Central Post Office, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Opera House, where guests can explore the rich culture and history of the city. The hotel offers rooms and suites decorated in a sophisticated French-colonial style, with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and marble bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines at the hotel, including Vietnamese, Italian, and French. The hotel also features a tranquil spa, a fitness centre, an outdoor pool, and business services.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 16:
Park Hyatt Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Day Itinerary
Begin your morning with a thoughtfully curated exploration of Saigon’s most significant landmarks, accompanied by your private guide. Starting from your hotel, you’ll be driven to the historic heart of the city, where Saigon’s layered past unfolds gracefully on foot.
Your first stop is the iconic Reunification Palace, once the presidential residence of South Vietnam and the powerful symbol marking the end of the war in April 1975. Walking through its preserved halls offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal chapter of modern history.
From here, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Saigon’s elegant French Quarter, admiring architectural gems such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the beautifully restored Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. These colonial-era landmarks reflect the city’s European influences and timeless charm.
The tour concludes with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, offering a deeply moving and insightful perspective on the Vietnam War through photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts—an essential experience for understanding the country’s resilience and history.
Return to your hotel by late afternoon, enriched with a deeper appreciation of Saigon’s past, present, and enduring spirit.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 17:
Park Hyatt Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Day Itinerary
Escape the city this morning and journey into the lush heart of the Mekong Delta, where life flows gently with the river. Travel to the tranquil province of Ben Tre, known for its coconut groves, quiet waterways, and authentic rural charm.
Upon arrival at Ham Luong Pier, step aboard a private boat and cruise along the serene Ben Tre River. As you glide past riverside villages, observe daily life unfolding on the water—local fishing activities, riverside trade, and traditional boats moving at an unhurried pace.
Stop to visit a traditional brick-making workshop, where bricks are still handcrafted using age-old techniques of molding and kiln-baking. Continue through narrow canals to a local coconut-processing workshop, discovering how every part of the coconut is transformed into useful and delicious products.
Disembark for a gentle walk through the village to visit a family-run workshop producing traditional sleeping mats, followed by a relaxing pause with seasonal fruits and tea in a local home. Travel deeper into the countryside by motor cart or bicycle, passing emerald rice paddies and vegetable farms, offering an intimate glimpse into the rhythms of rural life and tropical farming culture.
Enjoy a warm, home-style lunch at Hai Ho’s house, featuring regional Mekong flavors in an authentic village setting.
In the afternoon, unwind with a peaceful sampan ride through shaded canals, where palm trees arch overhead and the stillness of the delta surrounds you. Return to Ham Luong Pier and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving by early afternoon with a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s river life and countryside traditions.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Day 18:
End of Itinerary
Day Itinerary
This morning, depart your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City by private vehicle for a journey to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, located approximately 1.5 hours outside the city.
Upon arrival, begin with a brief documentary that provides essential context on the history, construction, and strategic importance of the tunnels during the Vietnam War. Accompanied by an expert local guide, explore this vast underground network and gain insight into how it functioned as a living, fighting, and supply system. You will see concealed trapdoors, ingenious ventilation shafts, and reconstructed bunkers, hospitals, and command rooms.
For those interested, there is the opportunity to experience a short crawl through a widened section of the tunnels, offering a tangible sense of the conditions faced by those who lived and fought here. The guide will also explain the various booby traps and wartime tactics used in the surrounding jungle. At the end of the visit, guests may optionally try firing historic firearms at a nearby shooting range (available at an additional cost).
Later in the day, a private transfer will take you to the airport in comfort for your onward flight, marking the conclusion of your journey.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
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