Vietnam Easy Biking And Cultural Journey 11 days

Welcome to Hanoi! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, your driver will be waiting to transfer you directly to your hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the city. After check-in, take some time to unwind and relax in your comfortable surroundings.

If you are ready to experience the vibrant energy of Hanoi, step outside and immerse yourself in the city's dynamic atmosphere. A perfect way to kick off your evening is with a visit to Ta Hien Street, famous for its lively nightlife. Enjoy a refreshing drink or sample delicious local snacks at one of the many cafes lining the street. As you soak in the bustling charm of Hanoi streets, you will find yourself captivated by the evening breeze and the friendly locals.

Your day begins with a taste of Hanoi's iconic egg coffee at a local cafe, followed by a safety briefing from your guide. Once ready, hop on your bike and start the adventure across the Long Bien Bridge, a stunning relic from the French colonial era that spans the Red River. The bridge provides a unique view of the water and surrounding area, perfect for photos.

Next, cycle to Banana Island, a tranquil green space nestled along the river, where you can experience rural Hanoi and learn about the lives of the less privileged who call this area home.

The journey continues as you explore some of Hanoi's most famous landmarks. Ride past the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and Ba Dinh Square, immersing yourself in the historical significance of these sites.

Continue cycling around Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene spot surrounded by lush greenery, and make your way to the French Quarter, stopping by the striking St. Joseph Cathedral. You will also have the chance to pass by West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and Truc Bach Lake, witnessing the beauty and harmony of Hanoi’s diverse landscapes.

After a fulfilling morning of exploration, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal before the driver takes you back to your hotel.

Note: Attractions are viewed outside. Please note that the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, and from June to August it is closed for renovations.

Morning

07:10 - 08:00 - Start the day early with a 120 km bus ride through Vietnam's breathtaking landscapes to Ninh Binh, a region famed for its karst mountains, lush valleys, and tranquil rivers.

Upon arrival at 10:30, you will visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, home to the King Dinh Temple, dating back to the 17th century. This historic site offers a glimpse into Vietnam's royal past and is a great place to learn about the country's early history.

Afternoon

After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant at 13:00, head to Tam Coc, where you board a traditional sampan boat for a serene ride along the Ngo Dong River. Glide through dramatic limestone cliffs, lush rice fields, and ancient caves such as Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The boat ride offers a peaceful, picturesque experience as you soak in the natural beauty surrounding you.

If time permits, enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the quaint villages of Tam Coc to further explore the region's rural charm. Later, embark on a scenic trek up to Mua Cave and climb the stone steps to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain, where you be rewarded with panoramic views of the stunning valley.

At 17:15, return to the bus for the journey back to Hanoi.

Morning

After a delightful breakfast, your journey begins as our driver picks you up at 08:00 to take you to the Halong Bay cruise port. Upon arrival, the cruise staff will assist you with a smooth check-in process.

Around noon, you’ll be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink, followed by an introduction to the cruise and important safety instructions. As the ship sets sail into the tranquil waters of Halong Bay, enjoy a delectable lunch while admiring the stunning scenery of emerald waters and towering limestone formations.

Afternoon

Your afternoon is filled with exciting opportunities to explore Halong Bay’s natural beauty. You can dive into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim, or embark on an exhilarating kayaking adventure to explore the hidden caves and secluded spots.

For those passionate about Vietnamese cuisine, a fun and informative cooking class awaits, where you’ll learn the art of making traditional spring rolls. Alternatively, unwind on the sundeck with a cocktail during Happy Hour, where you can enjoy a Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer.

Evening

As the day winds down, savor a sumptuous gourmet dinner served at the cruise’s restaurant. Afterward, you can engage in onboard entertainment, such as squid fishing, board games, or watching a movie under the stars. For a more lively evening, head to the karaoke lounge or relax at the bar for drinks and conversation.

Note:

• The tour guide will not accompany you during the cruise, but the English-speaking crew will be available for assistance.
• For visits to more remote locations, you may be transferred to a smaller tender boat.
• The itinerary may vary depending on the specific Halong Bay cruise you choose.

Morning

Wake up to the serene beauty of Halong Bay. Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck, embracing the calm surroundings with mindful movements. If you prefer to sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take in the views at your own pace.

After breakfast, the cruise will take you on a scenic tour to explore more of Halong Bay's hidden gems, including tranquil lagoons and caves. Then return to the ship to pack and prepare for checkout.

As the cruise sets sail back to the harbor, indulge in a delightful farewell brunch onboard, savoring fresh flavors while you take in the last glimpses of the stunning bay.

Afternoon

After disembarking, our driver will transport you back to Hanoi. Once you arrive in the vibrant Old Quarter, you will have the afternoon free to unwind or explore the area at your leisure. Wander through the charming streets, sample delicious street food, or simply relax at a local cafe. 

Note:

• The exact schedule may vary depending on the cruise operator and weather conditions.
• You may have some free time to enjoy a walking tour of the Old Quarter or relax at your hotel after the return.

After enjoying breakfast in Hanoi, it is time to say goodbye to the bustling capital as you head to Da Nang. Board your flight, and upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, our friendly driver will greet you and transfer you to the enchanting town of Hoi An. Known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and charming riverside views, Hoi An offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities.

Spend the evening exploring the picturesque Ancient Town, where narrow streets are lined with beautiful old houses, quaint cafes, and traditional shops. You may also enjoy a serene riverside dinner, soaking in the beauty of the town's illuminated lanterns floating on the water. 

Note:

• The exact timing of the transfer depends on your flight arrival.
• Explore Hoi An's vibrant nightlife and rich heritage at your own pace in the evening.

Morning

VISIT THE MARKET AND COOKING COURSE

Start your day with a visit to Hoi An Market, where you’ll get a chance to explore the variety of local ingredients that form the foundation of Vietnamese cuisine. Discover the flavors and therapeutic benefits of these fresh ingredients, which will soon become the stars of your cooking experience.

From the market, enjoy a 40-minute scenic boat ride along the Thu Bon River to a charming village, where you’ll embark on an outdoor cooking class under the shade of swaying coconut trees. Here, you’ll learn traditional techniques to prepare iconic Vietnamese dishes like marinated pork skewers, xeo banh, papaya salad, and Vietnamese-style fish. 

Note: A vegetarian menu is available on request, and the menu may change based on seasonal ingredients.

Afternoon

RIDING AND DISCOVERING THE COUNTRYSIDE

After savoring the delicious meal prepared earlier, take a leisurely bike ride through the peaceful countryside surrounding Hoi An. Pedal through the tranquil islands and villages, immersing yourself in the local way of life. Along the way, visit traditional workshops where rice alcohol is distilled and observe the meticulous process of basket boat crafting.

The journey also includes stops at artisan workshops where intricate mats, often used for mattresses, are woven by hand. 

Throughout the day, enjoy the calm beauty of the countryside and the chance to engage with local communities, experiencing time-honored traditions that continue to thrive in this charming region.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, before bidding farewell to Hoi An. After a brief transfer to Danang, you will catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival in Vietnam's bustling metropolis, a warm welcome awaits you as our representative arranges a seamless transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city. Once checked in, you have the rest of the day to relax and recharge. 

Alternatively, step out and explore the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, where you can visit iconic landmarks like Ben Thanh Market and the colonial Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, etc.

Morning

Start your day with a 07:30 pick-up from your hotel, then embark on a scenic 90-minute drive heading north from Ho Chi Minh City. As you journey through the tranquil, forested landscapes of Cu Chi, you will be immersed in the beauty of the countryside, passing rows of towering rubber trees and expansive farmlands. The serene atmosphere and picturesque vistas along the way offer plenty of opportunities for breathtaking photos (ride for 40 km). 

Along the route, stop at a traditional rice paper-making workshop, where you will witness the time-honored techniques used to create this staple of Vietnamese cuisine. You will also observe local farmers tending to their fields and livestock, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the region.

Afternoon

Arrive at the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passageways once used during the Vietnam War. A knowledgeable guide will take you through the tunnels, explaining their historical significance and the incredible ingenuity behind their construction.

After this fascinating tour, enjoy a delicious lunch before beginning your return journey to Ho Chi Minh City. You will be back in the city around 17:00.

Start your day with a 07:30 pick-up from your hotel, followed by a 1-hour van transfer to a cozy café south of Ho Chi Minh City. Once there, you will spend the next 2 hours cycling along peaceful dirt paths that wind through expansive rice paddies. 

As you ride through the flat terrain, you will immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside, passing local farmers tending to their crops, vibrant Mekong-style homes, and rows of towering coconut trees. After a relaxing stop for a snack and a refreshing drink, continue cycling through serene country roads shaded by tall indigenous trees.

At a local dock, you will board a private boat for a 30-minute cruise along the river to a charming riverside restaurant. Here, enjoy a delicious, authentic Mekong-style lunch, where you can savor the flavors of the region while surrounded by its natural beauty. Afterward, you have a chance to refresh with a cool shower before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

You will be back in the bustling metropolis by 18:00 to conclude your peaceful Mekong Delta day trip.

On your final day in Vietnam, enjoy a leisurely morning to soak up the last moments of this vibrant city. You can take a relaxing stroll through Ho Chi Minh's bustling streets, or if you prefer, unwind at your hotel and savor the comfort of your surroundings. For those looking to add a little more adventure, our travel consultant can arrange an exciting half-day tour for you to explore the city's hidden gems before your departure.

By 12:00, please be back at your hotel to check out. Our driver will then ensure a smooth transfer to the airport, where you’ll catch your flight home, bringing this unforgettable journey to a close.