Savor the flavors of Vietnam on the Vietnamese Culinary Symphony tour. From bustling markets to hands-on cooking classes, experience the rich traditions and vibrant tastes that define Vietnamese cuisine.
Itinerary
Upon arrival, meet and transfer to the hotel for check-in (Early check-in is NOT included & subject to hotel’s availability).
Accommodation in Hanoi.
Start your day early and head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. After that, take a short walk to the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple built in a unique architectural style. Next, head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a Confucian temple.
Spend your afternoon exploring Hanoi's bustling Old Quarter, also known as "36 Pho Phuong" (36 Streets). Take a stroll through its narrow, winding streets filled with shops, street vendors, and historical architecture. And visit Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi.
In the evening, embark on a mesmerizing Hanoi by Night Vespa food tour, starting with Bun Cha at the restaurant visited by President Obama. Explore the French Quarter, capturing moments at the Hanoi Opera House, and discover the historic Long Bien Bridge. Enjoy diverse Vietnamese dishes like "Burned Garlic Goose" and "Liver Paté Goose." Navigate the city's chaotic traffic, witnessing the romantic views around the big lake. Conclude the night with live music at a local bar and an unforgettable egg coffee stop by the railway tracks. This Vespa tour offers a unique blend of culinary delights and immersive experiences in the heart of Hanoi.
Accommodation in Hanoi.
Starting early in the morning from Hanoi to the famous Halong Bay, along the way we can enjoy the landscapes of rice fields, farms and the Red River Delta.
Upon arrival in Halong Bay, board your cruise ship and check into your cabin. Lunch on board is based on seafood and fresh fish. Take some time to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the limestone karsts and emerald waters. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to explore magnificent caves. In the evening, a special dinner contemplating the sunset, followed by a session of activities on board.
Overnight on board.
Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the deck, surrounded by the serene beauty of Halong Bay.
Depending on the cruise itinerary, you may have some visits before disembarking from the cruise and transfer to Hanoi airport for the flight to Hue.
Accommodation in Hue.
In the morning, we will take a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, which is considered the center of Buddhism in Vietnam since the early 1600s. Then, we will continue with a guided tour of the former Imperial Citadel and Royal Tombs Tu Duc and Minh Mang.
In the evening, embark on a delightful street food tour by cyclo in Hue, savoring local delicacies like Com Hen, Hue pancake, Banh Beo, and Banh Nam. Relish beef noodle at a charming restaurant before exploring Dong Ba market for Bun Thit Nuong or Nem lui. Traverse iconic bridges, including Phu Xuan and Trang Tien, and immerse yourself in the vibrant night market atmosphere. Indulge in the famous Banh My Trang Tien and conclude the tour with a taste of Hue's special dessert, 'Chè,' or a refreshing beer. Before returning to your hotel, visit the embroidery museum to marvel at exquisite creations by top artists in Hue.
Accommodation in Hue.
Leaving the ancient capital of Hue, we will continue our journey to discover Hoi An, the charming ancient town in the Centre of country.
In the afternoon, we will take a short walking tour of Hoi An, where every step unveils a tale of centuries-old charm and cultural richness. Discover architectural treasures that echo the town's international heritage, from ornate Chinese assembly halls to the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Hoi An's culture, exploring hidden alleys adorned with lanterns and stumbling upon atmospheric temples.
Accommodation in Hoi An.
Begin your day as our local guide leads you from the hotel to Thanh Dong Organic Farm on a bicycle. Engage in a brief stroll through the vegetable garden, absorbing the villagers' inspiring journey into organic herb cultivation. Join the farmers in hands-on gardening activities, including preparing organic manure, sowing, and harvesting vegetables. Glide to the Field restaurant on a charming basket boat, participating in a cooking class, and concluding the experience with a delectable lunch. This immersive tour offers a blend of organic farming, cultural engagement, and culinary delights.
Accommodation in Hoi An.
Free at leisure until the indicated time, transfer to Da Nang airport for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon.
Embark on a captivating exploration of the city, where history and culture converge. Marvel at the architectural grandeur of Notre Dame Cathedral and the timeless charm of the Central Post Office. Step into the pages of history at the Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam's reunification, and gain poignant insights at the War Remnants Museum. Each landmark tells a story, creating a tapestry of experiences that reflects the resilience and vibrancy of Saigon. End the day with the visit of Ben Thanh market, considered an unofficial symbol of Ho Chi Minh city.
Accommodation in Saigon.
Embark on an enchanting voyage to the Tien Giang province in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Upon reaching Cai Be harbor, embark on a delightful bike excursion to Tan Phong Island, immersing yourself in local craftsmanship from handmade banana leaf hammocks to intricately woven water coconut creations. Experience the artistry of daily essentials crafted from water hyacinth, savor fruit tastings, and relish the melodies of Vietnamese folk music. Glide through a quaint canal on a small rowing boat before indulging in an evening cooking demonstration and a delightful dinner at a charming restaurant.
Overnight in Cai Be.
In the early morning, embark on a scenic boat journey to the vibrant Cai Be market. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local craftsmanship, where the artistry of handmade coconut candy and traditional Vietnamese pop-rice comes to life. Explore the bustling market, a treasure trove of cultural delights, as you witness the skilled hands behind these unique creations. This early morning adventure promises a sensory feast, blending the charm of the market with the allure of artisanal traditions. Then transfer back to Saigon.
Accommodation in Saigon.
Today, we will explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a testament to Vietnam's resilience and ingenuity. Venture beneath the earth's surface to witness the intricate network of tunnels that played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War. Immerse yourself in the stories of courage and survival as you discover hidden chambers, trapdoors, and secret bunkers. The lush surroundings provide a stark contrast to the underground world, offering a poignant journey through history. Gain a profound understanding of the resilience of the Vietnamese people and the indelible mark left by this remarkable feat of engineering and endurance.
At the indicated time, transfer to Saigon airport for the departure flight.