True Essence of Northern Vietnam: 8 Days of Nature & Culture

Arrive in the enchanting capital of Vietnam - Hanoi, where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. You will be transferred from the airport to your hotel to check in.

Upon check-in at your hotel, take time to unwind or explore Hanoi at your own pace. Wander through the storied Old Quarter with its narrow streets brimming with life, or enjoy the tranquil beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake, where myths and history converge.

Overnight stay in Hanoi.

Morning /Afternoon

On our first day in Hanoi, visitors will join an exciting half-day tour that departs either at 08:00 or 13:30, depending on your availability.

You will stop at the Temple of Literature to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic landmark. Head to One Pillar Pagoda, one of the most unique architectures in Vietnam that illustrates the national flower Lotus.

Next, pay a visit to Ba Dinh Square and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, exploring the historical heart of Hanoi and paying respects to the great leader Ho Chi Minh. Afterward, visitors have the chance to enjoy scenic views of West Lake and visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the most ancient pagoda in Hanoi with a history line of more than 1,500 years.

NOTE: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will be viewed from outside, temporarily closed on Mon and Fri every week & from Jun - Aug every year.

Have lunch /dinner at an authentic Vietnamese restaurant. The rest of the day will be your free time to relax but you can join some optional tours in Hanoi to learn more about the culture of people here:

Option 1: Hanoi Cooking Class half day

The tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

The first stop is a local market, where you’ll time strolling through vibrant stalls filled with fresh herbs, spices, meats, and seasonal produce. Guided by your tour guide, you’ll practice the art of bargaining, learn how locals shop daily, and discover the essential ingredients that bring Vietnamese dishes to life.

Afterward, you’ll head to the cooking school, where the chef will first demonstrate how to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes. You’ll roll up your sleeves to cook under expert guidance, blending flavors and techniques to create mouth-watering specialties.

Once your dishes are ready, take your time to enjoy a full meal of your own culinary creations. At the end, you’ll receive a certificate and detailed recipes, so you can recreate the flavors at home.

The class concludes with a return transfer to the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Option 2: Dinner with local family

This heartwarming experience lasts around 2.5 - 3 hours (17:30 - 20:00) and offers an intimate glimpse into the daily life of a traditional Hanoi family.

Your evening begins with a convenient pick-up at your hotel lobby, where you will meet your guide and be taken to a local Hanoi family home. Conversations flow naturally as the host family shares stories about their lives, traditions, and daily routines, giving you rare insights into Vietnamese customs.

In the family kitchen, you’ll join your hosts in preparing beloved dishes such as Spring rolls, Bun cha, and Stir-fried chicken with fish sauce. Under their guidance, you will chop, season, and stir-fry with care, learning not only cooking techniques but also the stories behind each recipe. The aromas filling the kitchen will awaken your senses, and the laughter shared during the cooking session creates a bond that transcends cultural differences.

Dinner is then served in the family's dining room, where the significance of a shared meal in Vietnamese culture comes to life. You will witness this firsthand as elders impart wisdom, children show respect, and everyone gathers around the table to enjoy the food prepared with heart.

This experience is more than just a meal - it is a cultural exchange, a moment of connection, and a lasting memory to treasure from your time in Hanoi.

Morning

At 07:00, start your adventure with a hotel pick-up from Hanoi Old Quarter and board the bus heading towards Mai Chau. Relax as the bustling cityscape fades into serene countryside views.

Along the way, pause at the stunning Thung Khe Pass, a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the lush Mai Chau Valley. Here, local vendors display traditional products, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Take the opportunity to savor Com Lam, a delightful specialty made from sticky rice cooked in bamboo - an authentic taste of the region.

Arrive in Mai Chau, the cultural heartland of the Thai ethnic people, you will check in to a traditional stilt house, where a warm, hearty lunch awaits, featuring the unique flavors of the Northwest mountains.

Recharge with a short rest by the pool or take a leisurely walk through the village’s narrow alleys.

Afternoon

Begin an exciting cycling tour to explore the serene beauty of Mai Chau Valley, travelers will pedal through lush rice fields and charming villages. Along the way, you can discover the unique cultural traditions of the White Thai ethnic group.

Take a break to visit local brocade production facilities and browse their handmade creations, perfect for souvenirs that carry the essence of Mai Chau’s artistry.

Continue to Chieu Cave, also known as the Thousand Steps Cave. Embark on a climb from the mountain’s base to its peak, you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of Mai Chau Valley, a reward for your effort and a highlight of the day.

After descending from the mountain, return to your homestay for a relaxing tea break.

Morning

Around 07:00, begin the day with an early breakfast to fuel up for an adventurous journey. You then board the car for a scenic drive to the stunning Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a haven of untouched beauty. After that, stop at your hotel to drop off your bags and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Hop into a van that will take you to the trek's starting point, where the adventure truly starts. Begin your trek along a small dirt path, passing by a secluded hamlet and dense jungle.

As you arrive at the higher part of Hieu Village, spend some time taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes with terraced fields and lush greenery.

NOTE: If your visit coincides with Thursday or Sunday, you can have a stop at Pho Doan Market, a vibrant hub where local villagers gather to trade fresh produce, handmade goods, and traditional textiles.

Descend the path to reach a picturesque waterfall, you will see some local houses. Travelers have free time to relish the waterfall (swimming and water hiking depending on the season).
Enjoy a delightful Garden-to-Table lunch at a local homestay, hosted by an ethnic minority family

Afternoon

Board the car to the starting point of the afternoon trek, which passes a hanging bridge over the Cham River. Continue through Ba Village, and witness old traditional houses that offer a glimpse into the architecture of the area.

Discover the ingenuity of the Thai ethnic minority as you admire their remarkable bamboo waterwheels. The waterwheels in Pu Luong are among Vietnam’s most impressive and provide a unique glance into sustainable agriculture practices.

Conclude the day with a peaceful bamboo boat ride, gliding gently along the tranquil waters. Used by locals to visit other houses or their fields, these boats now offer a serene way to explore the landscape.

Return to the hotel to unwind in your room or take a refreshing swim in the infinity pool, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Pu Luong.

Morning

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a trek to Kho Muong Village and Bat Cave. You will follow a narrow path with nearby traditional Thai stilt houses and head to stunning viewpoints overlooking the endless rice terraces.

From the hilltop, the picturesque village of Kho Muong gradually comes into view, revealing its unique charm and serene beauty.

After exploring the village, make your way to the entrance of Bat Cave. You can venture inside to uncover its natural wonders and fascinating formations (if weather permits).

Afternoon

Check out and enjoy a delicious lunch before bidding farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

Begin your journey to Ninh Bình, famously known as "Halong Bay on Land." Upon arrival at your lodge, take time to unwind by the pool or relax on the terrace, soaking in the tranquil ambiance of this serene destination.

Begin your day with a cycling tour to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and learn about the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties, this historic site offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.

Next, enjoy a serene visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An. Travelers will embark on a tranquil boat tour through a breathtaking landscape of magnificent karsts, peaceful waterways, and ancient caves.

After this unforgettable experience, relax during the transfer back to Hanoi, with an estimated arrival time of roughly 18:30.

Morning

Get up and have your breakfast before the driver picks you up around 08:00 - 08:30 to head to Halong Bay, one of the world's seven natural wonders in North Vietnam. This is the must-visit destination with thousands of limestone islands, mysterious caves, and appealing emerald water.

Upon arrival, do the check-in procedures before getting on the cruise. Around noon, you will be welcomed by friendly crew staff with a welcome drink.

Enjoy a delicious lunch on board with fresh seafood from Halong while the boat cruises in the bay. Relax in your cabin and have free time until the afternoon.

Afternoon

You would have various water activities this afternoon, such as visiting the caves, kayaking, or just swimming in the sea, based on the itinerary of each Halong Bay cruise.

After all, you are free to get on the boat to relax and enjoy your delicious dinner on the cruise.

NOTE:

• Our tour guide will not accompany you aboard the cruise in Halong Bay but the English-speaking guide on board is available.
• Each cruise will have a different program, you should contact our sales consultants for more information.

Morning

On this last morning, you can choose to set up early to join a Tai Chi lesson or just relax on the sundeck and witness the amazing sunrise on the bay. After breakfast, you will begin your last excursion to one of the famous attractions in Halong Bay.

Brunch will be served on the way back to the main dock at around noon. You will be transferred back to Hanoi after the cruise trip.

Afternoon

Have free time to explore Hanoi Old Quarter and try Vietnamese street food by yourself. You can consider joining some extra food tours below:

NOTE: If you want a drop-off service at the airport or extra nights in Hanoi, feel free to contact our travel consultant for helpful support.