Vietnam’s Historic Treasures - Private Experience 10 days

Upon arrival in Hanoi, a private driver will greet you at the airport and take you to a boutique heritage hotel, where you can relax after your flight. 

After that, you will start to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Hanoi Old Quarter with a fascinating cyclo ride. As you weave through narrow streets, you will witness the perfect mix of old and new, from old-style shophouses to vibrant market stalls. The ride continues into the elegant French Quarter, where grand colonial buildings and tree-lined boulevards reveal a different side of the city’s past.

Next, you will pay a visit to the historic Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton." This site offers deep insights into Vietnam’s turbulent history, from its time as a French colonial prison to its role during the Vietnam War. Walking exhibits, you will gain a moving perspective on the resilience and courage of those who were once held here.

To end the day, you will enjoy a private dinner at a beautifully restored colonial villa. You can taste authentic Vietnamese flavors in an elegant setting, where history and fine cuisine come together for a memorable dining experience. Afterward, return to your hotel and relax.

After breakfast, your day begins with a private guided visit to some of the most iconic historical landmarks. You will stop first at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay tribute to Vietnam’s beloved leader.

Right nearby, the Presidential Palace stands as a stunning example of French colonial architecture, presenting a look into the country’s past. Just a short walk away, you will find One Pillar Pagoda, a famous Buddhist temple known for its unique lotus-shaped design and profound spiritual significance.

Continuing your exploration, you will head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, dating back to the 11th century. Like a local, you should take your time admiring stone steles inscribed with the names of past scholars and soaking in the scholarly atmosphere that nurtured the brightest minds of the nation. 

With a morning filled with history and culture, the rest of the day is yours to relax or discover at your own pace. If you’re unsure what to do, our optional tours below offer exciting ways to experience the highlights of Hanoi:

The following day, your private tour will lead you to Hoa Lu, Vietnam ancient capital, where history comes alive before your eyes. Here, you will explore the majestic temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties, marveling at their intricate architecture and learning about legendary figures who ruled this land. Through this visit, you can feel the echoes of a bygone era in every stone and carving.

Later in the day, you are invited to sit back on a private sampan boat.

• You have the option to choose between a scenic trip along Trang An, where tranquil waterways and striking limestone landscapes create a serene atmosphere.
• Or an adventurous exploration of mysterious Tam Coc caves. Both options provide a peaceful and unforgettable experience, perfectly complementing your day of cultural discovery.

Today, your trip takes an exciting turn as you move to Hue, a city celebrated for its rich heritage. To kick off the day, you will embark on a private transfer to Noi Bai International Airport, and soon after, you will board a flight to Hue. When arriving, you will check into your hotel.

Once you have settled in, you can take the rest of the day in the way you like. You might choose to drift into the calm and relaxed surrounding area or stay at the hotel, enjoying the timeless design and warm hospitality. This gentle introduction to Hue sets the stage for an immersive exploration of imperial history tomorrow.

In the morning, your guide will take you to the Imperial Citadel, a magnificent fortress that tells the story of a period of imperialism and colonialism.

Following that, you will explore Forbidden Purple City, a once-hidden area reserved exclusively for the emperor. As you go into these sites, you will be captivated by the unique architectural style and the priceless cultural legacy.

Next in the day, you will make your way to the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, one of the most attractive pieces of architecture that is still preserved today. What makes it so famous is the harmonious blend of classic Vietnamese design and Feng Shui principles, which you can easily sense coming there.

Besides that, this mausoleum complex also carries insights into spiritual traditions that influenced royal practices. Your guide will explain the symbolism behind every detail, allowing you to appreciate deep-rooted customs.

To conclude the day, you will have a relaxing private boat ride on the Perfume River. This is a great opportunity to absorb the beauty that has inspired poets and artists for centuries.

The next day provides you with a private tour of Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This area once separated North and South Vietnam, thus holding great historical importance. 

The journey begins with a visit to Vinh Moc Tunnels, an incredible underground network where entire villages lived and operated in secrecy to escape bombings. Navigating these tunnels, you will witness the ingenuity and determination of the people who called this place home during the war.

Afterward, you will continue to Khe Sanh Combat Base, a site of intense battles between American and Vietnamese forces, where remnants of bunkers, aircraft, and war relics paint a vivid picture of what was happening at that time.

Your tour also includes a stop at Hien Luong Bridge, a powerful symbol of Vietnam division and eventual reunification. Standing here, you can reflect on the sacrifices made and the country journey toward peace.

On the seventh day, you will journey to Hoi An, taking in breathtaking landscapes on the way. Your private transfer will follow the scenic Hai Van Pass, where you can admire 360-degree coastal views.

Along the route, you will take a short yet relaxing break at Lang Co Beach, a tranquil spot with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Another highlight of the trip is a stop at Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills dotted with ancient caves, pagodas, and panoramic sights.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, you will check into a well-designed and furnished riverside villa, where you can rest and soak in the cool, fresh, and peaceful atmosphere that envelops the town.

Subsequently, you will set out on a guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO-listed treasure well-known for musing and soothing scenery. Here, there are plenty of activities to enjoy - stroll lantern-lit streets, explore the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, admire remarkable designs of Chinese Assembly Halls, and visit merchant houses that reflect the trading history in Hoi An. 

When the sun sets, the town's vibrant ambiance and glowing lanterns create a truly magical experience. Since the evening choice is yours, you can choose to venture out to the night market for local snacks, trinkets, clothing, and accessories with fellow travelers.

This morning, you will become completely involved in the flavors of Vietnam with a hands-on cooking class at a quiet countryside farm. Learn traditional techniques from skilled local chefs as you prepare authentic dishes using fresh, homegrown ingredients. Once finished, you can enjoy the delicious meal you have created with much effort.

The afternoon will be used to discover the artistry behind Vietnam's famous handicrafts. Engage in a silk weaving workshop, where you will witness the full process of turning silkworm threads into elegant fabrics.

Then, you will have a chance to try your hand at lantern making, a centuries-old tradition that brings additional color and charm to Vietnamese culture. You can make your own lantern as a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.

As the day draws to a close, you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. When landing, you will be taken to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure after a super active day in Hoi An.

Morning

Following breakfast, you will hit the road with a private guided tour to some of the city's top sightseeing places. The half of your day rolls around with an insightful journey to Cu Chi Tunnels, a sophisticated underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war.

Here, you will learn about the resilience and ingenuity behind these tunnels, with the option to crawl through a section and experience what it is like firsthand.

Afternoon

Returning to Ho Chi Minh City, you will move down Dong Khoi Street to acquaint yourself with Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, two iconic remnants of French colonial architecture. Admire their inevitable beauty while your guide shares stories of the past.

Not far away, you will step into Reunification Palace, where time seems frozen on the day Saigon fell in 1975. Going deep into grand halls and war command rooms, you can feel the weight of history in every corner.

The tour concludes at the War Remnants Museum, a thought-provoking site that offers powerful insights into the Vietnam War. Through a collection of photographs, artifacts, and personal stories, you will get more information on the impact of war on the country and its people. 

To wrap up all of that, you will return to your hotel to relax and prepare for the final chapter of your journey in Vietnam.

Your trip to Vietnam comes to an end today. After having breakfast, you can enjoy your final moments in this beautiful country, perhaps taking a short walk to take in the sights and sounds or picking up a few souvenirs to remember your adventure.

At the scheduled time, our driver will transfer you to the Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight. As you say goodbye to Vietnam, take with you unforgettable memories of gorgeous landscapes, historic wonders, and cultural experiences. Thank you for choosing us to accompany you on this trip. We hope to welcome you back for another worthwhile tour in the future. Have a safe flight, and see you soon!