Discover UNESCO Treasures of Vietnam 15 days

Your Vietnam adventure begins the moment you step off the plane into Hanoi's bustling atmosphere. The capital city will greet you with its unique blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese charm. You might notice the aromatic street food scents drifting through the narrow alleyways as motorbikes weave past ancient temples. Hanoi's Old Quarter will captivate you with its maze-like streets.

After settling into your accommodation, you may choose to explore the nearby Hoan Kiem Lake where locals gather for evening exercises and peaceful walks. The legendary Ngoc Son Temple sits gracefully on a small island, connected by the iconic red bridge that photographers love to capture. You will discover that Hanoi moves at its own rhythm, balancing centuries-old traditions with modern city life in the most fascinating ways.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before your guided exploration of Hanoi's most treasured heritage sites begins at 08:00. Your expert local guide will lead you through the fascinating history of Vietnam's capital city. You might find yourself amazed by the stories behind each ancient structure as you walk through centuries-old pathways. The morning tour covers three remarkable destinations that showcase Hanoi's rich cultural legacy.

Hoang Thanh Imperial Citadel will transport you back to Vietnam's royal past where emperors once ruled from these sacred grounds. You may discover archaeological artifacts and ancient foundations that reveal the citadel's thousand-year history. The site offers you glimpses into royal ceremonies and political decisions that shaped the entire nation. Your guide will explain how this fortress served as the political center for multiple dynasties.

Tran Quoc Pagoda stands as Hanoi's oldest Buddhist temple, the pagoda's eleven-story lotus tower might capture your attention as it reflects beautifully in the calm waters. You can observe local worshippers offering prayers and burning incense in this peaceful sanctuary. The temple's architecture demonstrates the perfect harmony between spiritual beliefs and artistic expression.

Your final stop takes you to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where you will pay respects to Vietnam's beloved leader in this solemn marble structure. The changing of the guard ceremony might occur during your visit, creating a memorable moment of national pride. You can explore the surrounding gardens and learn about the mausoleum's significance in Vietnamese culture. A traditional lunch concludes your morning of historical discoveries.

Spend time immersed in the lyrical beauty of Quan Ho, the UNESCO-recognized folk music of northern Vietnam. In the peaceful setting of a traditional old house, you'll enjoy an intimate cultural exchange with local artisans who dedicate their lives to preserving this romantic musical art. Let the sweet call-and-response melodies, elegant costumes, and warm hospitality bring you closer to the soul of Kinh Bac's heritage.

A delicious lunch featuring regional specialties provides the perfect opportunity to savor flavors that complement your discoveries. Your day concludes with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam's cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

Morning

Adventure calls as you depart Hanoi this morning for one of Vietnam's most breathtaking natural wonders - Halong Bay. The 2.5-hour drive takes you through peaceful countryside scenes, with green rice fields, quiet villages, and water buffalo grazing beside farmers. As you get closer to the pier, you will see the amazing limestone mountains rising from the sea.

At the harbor, your overnight cruise is waiting. Friendly staff will greet you with a welcome drink as you board. Take time to settle into your cabin or explore the spacious decks before the boat begins sailing through the emerald-green waters, surrounded by towering rock formations.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy kayaking around hidden caves and quiet lagoons. One highlight is visiting Sung Sot Cave, a huge cave filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

As evening falls, a fresh seafood dinner is served on deck while the sun sets over the bay. You’ll taste delicious local dishes prepared by the cruise’s chefs. After dinner, relax on board and enjoy the peaceful night sky reflected on the water - a perfect end to your day in this magical place.

NOTE: The cruise route may differ based on your selected cruise.

Morning

Wake up early to catch the peaceful sunrise over Halong Bay - a view that’s even more stunning from the cruise deck than from land. A light breakfast with coffee and tea will be served to start your day.

After breakfast, join a gentle Tai Chi session on the sundeck to stretch and recharge. Next, the cruise stops at Titop Island, a small, crescent-shaped island known for its calm waters and natural beauty. You’ll have 1–2 hours to climb to the island’s viewpoint for a 360-degree panorama of Halong Bay or relax with a swim on the beach.

Enjoy a hearty brunch back on board as the cruise slowly makes its way back to the harbor. You can take this time to pack up or simply unwind on the sundeck and soak in the final views.

Afternoon

The cruise ends at the cruise port. From here, relax while waiting for your transfer.

Your flight to Hue departs in the afternoon, taking you from the northern coast to Vietnam's former imperial capital. Hue's royal heritage will greet you upon arrival as ancient citadel walls and traditional architecture come into view during your transfer to the hotel.

Morning

Begin your day with a hotel pick-up around 08:00, then transfer to the boat station to start a scenic ride along the peaceful Perfume River.

Your first stop is Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most iconic religious sites. Known for its seven-tiered tower and peaceful surroundings, the pagoda stands as a symbol of Hue, often mentioned in local folk songs.

Continue to the Imperial Citadel, the grand heart of Hue’s royal legacy. Spanning 520 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site once housed emperors and their courts, featuring palaces, temples, and majestic gates.

Wrap up your morning with a visit to Dong Ba Market, the city's oldest and largest market. It’s a lively spot where locals shop for fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and Hue’s beloved snacks.

Afternoon

Your half-day tour concludes around 12:30, giving you time to enjoy lunch or relax at your own pace.

Evening

Begin your evening at Nghinh Luong Dinh, where you will be warmly welcomed aboard the Hue Heritage Dinner Cruise. As the boat gently glides upstream along the Perfume River beneath the golden glow of sunset, you will pass by iconic cultural landmarks of the ancient capital such as Kim Long Village, Thuy Bieu Village, Ho Quyen Arena, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Van Thanh Temple.

During the cruise, indulge in a refined dinner that blends contemporary cuisine with traditional Hue flavors, reflecting the royal heritage of this former imperial city. The experience culminates with a Ca Hue performance on the river, immersing you in the elegant melodies of Hue's court music amidst the tranquil evening waters - offering a truly authentic and memorable cultural journey.

After a leisurely morning in Hue, your journey continues southward as you travel by road to the ancient town of Hoi An. This scenic drive takes you along the stunning Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic coastal views and glimpses of local life in central Vietnam.

You’ll arrive in Hoi An in the late afternoon and check in at your hotel, with the evening free to relax or take a gentle stroll through the lantern-lit streets of the Old Town.

Morning

We will begin our day with a visit to My Son Sanctuary, the former spiritual heart of the Champa Kingdom and a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in a lush, green valley, My Son is home to a remarkable collection of red brick towers and Hindu sanctuaries dating from the 7th to 13th centuries, offering deep insight into Vietnam’s ancient civilizations.

After exploring the sacred ruins, we’ll return to Hoi An for lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying central Vietnamese cuisine before shifting to a cultural walking tour of the historic town.

Afternoon

Once a flourishing international trading port from the 16th to 18th centuries, Hoi An Ancient Town is now one of Southeast Asia’s best-preserved heritage sites. As we stroll its winding lanes, we’ll visit the Hoi An Museum, ancient merchant houses, and Chinese Assembly Halls, each revealing unique architectural influences.

We’ll also stop by the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of the town’s rich cultural tapestry. These landmarks reflect the fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and French styles, making Hoi An a living museum of diverse heritage.

Despite centuries of change, Hoi An remains a charming and peaceful gem, preserving its timeless beauty and old-world ambiance.

Farewell to Hoian comes with mixed emotions as you prepare for your flight to Vietnam's bustling southern metropolis. You will check out of your hotel after breakfast and transfer to Da Nang Airport for your domestic flight. The short journey might offer you aerial views of the coastline and rice paddies below. Ho Chi Minh City will greet you with its energetic atmosphere and modern skyline.

Your arrival in the former Saigon marks the beginning of a new chapter in your Vietnamese adventure. You may notice the stark contrast between the peaceful charm of Hoian and the dynamic pace of this commercial hub. The city's French colonial architecture will blend seamlessly with contemporary skyscrapers as you transfer to your accommodation. Evening brings opportunities to explore nearby markets and sample southern Vietnamese cuisine.

Morning

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City for Ben Tre. Upon arrival, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Ham Luong River. Your first stop is Long Thanh Island, where you’ll visit a local home. Enjoy fresh tropical fruits, sip local honey tea, and get a taste of delta hospitality.

Around 11:00, continue your cruise toward Mo Cay District. Along the way, stop at a local coconut processing workshop and see how coconuts are transformed into various products, including handmade coconut candy.

Hop aboard a 'Xe Loi' (motorized cart) and travel through peaceful rural paths. Visit a broom-making workshop and then enjoy a tranquil sampan ride along narrow canals, soaking in the serenity of the Mekong waterways.

During your trip, you will stop by a spot to enjoy a live performance of Don Ca Tai Tu, a traditional folk music genre recognized by UNESCO.

Arrive at a local house and sit down for a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a short walk around the area to observe more aspects of local life before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Morning

Today brings you an adventure to one of southern Vietnam's sacred peaks and traditional salt-making villages. Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Ba Den Mountain where pilgrims have climbed for centuries. You will ascend this spiritual mountain via cable car and witness panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The temple complex at the summit might inspire you with its peaceful atmosphere.

The mountains' multiple temples offer you glimpses into Vietnamese Buddhist practices and local folklore traditions. You may encounter monks performing daily rituals while devotees burn incense and make offerings for good fortune. The cool mountain air provides a refreshing contrast to the humid lowlands as you explore various shrines and meditation halls. Your guide will explain the legends and spiritual beliefs associated with this holy site.

Afternoon

Your afternoon continues to the fascinating Tay Ninh shrimp salt village, where generations of families have practiced traditional salt harvesting techniques. You will observe workers raking crystallized salt under the intense sun while learning about this ancient preservation method.

Local artisans will demonstrate the intricate process of creating premium shrimp salt using time-honored recipes and techniques. You might participate in the salt-making process and understand how families depend on seasonal harvests for their livelihoods. The unique flavors and textures of fresh shrimp salt will enhance your understanding of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

After your flight to Da Lat, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for check-in and some time to rest.

After that, head to Lat Village, located about 13km from Da Lat. This peaceful village is home to the Lach ethnic group, who have preserved their traditional lifestyle and culture. Stroll through the village to see typical stilt houses, an ancient church, and local handicrafts that reflect the unique identity of the Central Highlands.

As the sun sets, enjoy a Gongs Performance Show, an immersive experience of the “Space of Gong Culture in the Central Highlands”, recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

During the show, you will learn about the spiritual and communal significance of gongs in local life, enjoy traditional Can wine and a BBQ feast prepared by the villagers. Take part in traditional dances and cultural games, joining in with the friendly ethnic community for an unforgettable evening.

Your journey starts with a car pick-up from your hotel in Da Lat. At the coffee farm, your guide will help you explore the basics of Robusta and Arabica coffee, letting you compare the two types and see Arabica coffee trees in person.

You’ll learn about the fermented coffee process and how it brings out unique flavors. Then, you’ll get hands-on experience roasting coffee yourself using a sample Lysander roaster. After roasting, you’ll be guided through the pour-over brewing method.

Finally, enjoy tasting three different types of coffee right at the farm and receive a special 100g coffee gift before the tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel.

Morning

Your tour begins with a hotel pick-up between 08:15 and 08:30. The first stop is Datanla Waterfall at 09:00, one of the most accessible and scenic waterfalls near Da Lat. Surrounded by jungle, the 25-meter fall flows gently over rock shelves into the "Death Valley." You can either walk to the base or try the thrilling roller coaster ride (optional, at your own cost).

At 10:00, you’ll visit Chicken Village, a small K’Ho ethnic minority village known for its large concrete chicken statue. Here, you can also see local women weaving scarves, bags, and other traditional handicrafts.

Next, at 10:30, stop by a pepper farm, where you’ll learn about this popular spice and how it’s cultivated.

By 11:00, arrive at Pongour Waterfall, considered one of the most majestic waterfalls in the Central Highlands. Standing 40 meters high and over 100 meters wide, it cascades over multiple sandstone steps surrounded by untouched forest.

Around 12:00, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Your guide can recommend a reputable spot if requested.

Afternoon

At 13:00, explore the Elephant Waterfall, 35 meters high and 40 meters wide - Lam Dong’s second widest. Visit the nearby Wind Cave, known for its narrow entrance and strong gusts echoing like thunder.

At 14:30, visit a rice wine workshop and crickets farm - you can even challenge yourself to try some edible insects.

By 15:00, stop at the region’s largest pagoda, home to impressive statues of the Lady Buddha and Happy Buddha, where you can take in the peaceful atmosphere and make a wish.

At 15:30, head to a traditional silk factory to see how silk is made from silkworm to finished fabric.

Your final stop at 16:00 is a visit to a coffee plantation. Here, you’ll learn about Da Lat’s famous weasel coffee and enjoy a fresh cup with stunning views.

The tour ends at around 17:00 with drop-off at your hotel.

Your final morning in Vietnam begins with a leisurely breakfast as you prepare to bid farewell to Da Lat's cool mountain air. You will check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City. The short journey might offer you one last glimpse of the highland landscapes that have captivated travelers.

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh, connect to your international departure or continue your onward journey. Safe travels and goodbye from Vietnam!