Arrive at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport where you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to recover from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter at your own pace.

 

Overnight in Hanoi.

Discover the highlights of Hanoi with this immersive city tour. Begin with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex, a significant site honoring Vietnam’s beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. This complex includes the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the great leader’s body is preserved, the simple yet symbolic Stilt House where he lived and worked, and the historic One Pillar Pagoda, a unique Buddhist structure that dates back to 1049. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, where traditional Vietnamese architecture and the legacy of Confucian education come to life. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

 

Dive deeper into the country’s past at Hoa Lo Prison also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a historic site in Hanoi that served as a French colonial prison for Vietnamese revolutionaries and later housed American POWs during the Vietnam War, offering a sobering glimpse into its grim past. Then, relax with a leisurely cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, experiencing Hanoi’s vibrant atmosphere and colonial charm. In the evening, transfer to the train station to board the overnight train to Lao Cai, enjoying the unique experience of traveling through Vietnam’s countryside in a comfortable sleeper cabin.

 

Overnight on the train.

Arrive early in Lao Cai and transfer to Sapa, a picturesque town nestled in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains. After breakfast, visit the Cat Cat village, home to the H’mong ethnic group, and learn about their culture and daily life. Enjoy a local lunch and spend the afternoon visiting other nearby villages or markets. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner.

 

Overnight in Sapa.

Immerse yourself in the traditional art of batik with a hands-on workshop at Muong Hoa Cooperative, located in the picturesque Ta Van Village. Batik, a centuries-old technique used by the Black H’Mong people, involves painting decorative patterns onto fabric using melted beeswax, which protects the fabric’s original color during the indigo dyeing process. This intricate craft reflects the rich cultural heritage of the H’Mong community.

 

During the 2-4 hour workshop, you’ll learn the basics of batik under the guidance of skilled experts, crafting your own unique design. As you work, enjoy the serene surroundings of the cooperative and sip on freshly brewed seasonal tea. Take time to explore Ta Van Village, discovering the vibrant culture and daily life of ethnic communities like the H’Mong, Gray, and Dao people.

 

After the workshop, try on traditional ethnic outfits, perfect for photos that capture your authentic cultural experience. End your visit by bringing home your handcrafted batik product—a meaningful keepsake of your journey into the heart of Sapa’s artistic traditions.

 

Overnight in Sapa.

Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Sapa’s bustling market or visiting nearby viewpoints. After lunch, start the journey back to Hanoi, reflecting on your trek and the experiences in the mountains. Arrive in Hanoi in the evening for dinner and overnight at your hotel.

 

Overnight in Hanoi.

Begin your journey with a pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and transfer to Tuan Chau Harbor. Board on cruise, enjoy a welcome drink, and receive a cruise briefing. Savor lunch at the restaurant as you sail towards Lan Ha Bay. In the afternoon, explore Bright Cave on a bamboo boat, then join a cooking demonstration. Relax with a sunset party and dinner, followed by stargazing, board games, or squid fishing on the top deck.

 

Overnight on Lan Ha Bay

Start your day with a sunrise Tai Chi session and light breakfast. Transfer to Viet Hai pier by day boat and explore Viet Hai village by bike or electric car. Enjoy lunch on board, then kayak through fish farms and swim at Ba Trai Dao beach (weather permitting). Return to the cruise for sunset relaxation, dinner, and evening activities like stargazing and squid fishing.

 

Overnight on Lan Ha Bay

Begin your day with a serene Tai Chi session on the sundeck, followed by a light breakfast as the morning unfolds over Halong Bay. Venture out for kayaking in the tranquil Tra Bau area, exploring the stunning rocky islands up close. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing swim or other water activities before returning to the cruise. Check out of your cabin as you savor a delightful brunch while the cruise returns to Tuan Chau Marina.

 

Disembark and embark on a scenic drive to Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh, a pristine wetland area known for its picturesque limestone karsts and diverse ecosystems. Often referred to as a “natural sanctuary,” Van Long offers a peaceful escape into the heart of Vietnam’s countryside. Spend the evening surrounded by the tranquility of this beautiful reserve, enjoying your leisure time in the serene atmosphere.

 

Overnight in Van Long

Start the morning with a hearty breakfast, readying yourself for an unforgettable exploration of Van Long Nature Reserve. Kick off the adventure with a peaceful rowing boat tour through the lush wetland landscape, gliding across calm waters framed by dramatic limestone karsts. This pristine area is home to diverse wildlife, including the rare Delacour’s langur. Let the serene environment and scenic views captivate you as you float along the tranquil waterways.

 

Following the boat ride, hop on a bicycle for a scenic tour of the surrounding countryside. Ride along quiet village paths, passing verdant rice fields, charming traditional homes, and glimpses of rural life. Pause to meet welcoming locals and learn about their daily activities. Midway through the journey, enjoy a delicious lunch of regional specialties at a cozy countryside restaurant.

Wrap up the day with a relaxed cycle back, taking in the peaceful atmosphere, before returning to your accommodation for some well-earned rest.

 

Overnight in Van Long.

Spend a relaxing morning at your resort, surrounded by the peaceful natural beauty of Van Long. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then take time to unwind in the serene atmosphere—perhaps with a gentle walk in the resort’s lush grounds, a quiet read, or simply soaking in the views of the limestone karsts and wetlands.

 

After a delightful lunch of local specialties, savor a final moment of tranquility before departing for Hanoi in the afternoon. Enjoy the scenic drive back, and upon arrival, the evening is yours to spend as you wish, whether exploring the city or unwinding at your hotel.

 

Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time to relax or do some last-minute shopping. Check out from the hotel and transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight.