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.

 

Afternoon, join a hands-on Dó Paper Workshop (2 hours) and immerse yourself in the ancient art of Vietnamese papermaking. Discover the traditional process using raw materials sourced from ethnic villages in Northern Vietnam and explore unique, creative products. Guided by the Zó Project – a social enterprise preserving Dó paper and supporting artisans – you’ll craft your own paper, decorating it with flowers and leaves. This interactive experience not only connects you with nature and creativity but also supports sustainable innovation and empowers local artisans, ensuring the survival of a craft that dates back to the 3rd century.

 

Overnight in Hanoi

After breakfast, let’s explore Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of Vietnamese pottery craftsmanship. Begin your journey with a walk to Bat Trang Temple, followed by a visit to Van Chi house, where scholars who passed university exams in the past are honored. Discover the charm of the nearby centuries-old houses: one traditional, the other a fascinating blend of old and new, complete with a wrought-iron staircase imported from France and a fruit-filled courtyard before joining a hands-on pottery class (2 hours) at Gom Sen, a social enterprise preserving traditional pottery and supporting artisans, especially those with disabilities. Engage in shaping and decorating your ceramic piece, blending tradition with creativity. Lunch at local restaurant.

 

Afternoon, continue to discover the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam with a visit to Dao Thuc Water Puppet Village, a hidden gem preserving the ancient art of water puppetry. Begin your journey by exploring the traditional village, where you’ll learn about its 300-year-old history and the craftsmanship behind the wooden puppets. Meet local artisans who share their skills and stories, offering a deeper understanding of rural Vietnamese life. Conclude your visit with an enchanting water puppet show (one hour), performed on a serene village pond, depicting folklore and daily life through colorful, hand-carved puppets. This immersive experience supports local artisans and keeps tradition alive.

 

Overnight in Hanoi

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast before transferring to the airport for your flight to Hue. Arrival in Hue, check in your hotel then have lunch at local restaurant.

 

After lunch, explore the cultural heart of Hue on a fascinating cyclo tour through the city’s iconic landmarks. Begin your journey at the Imperial Citadel, the grand residence of Vietnam’s last royal dynasty – the Nguyen Dynasty – where you’ll uncover the rich history and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, visit the Royal Antiques Museum, showcasing an exquisite collection of bronze pottery, Chinaware, and royal artifacts that reflect the splendor of the Nguyen emperors. Conclude your tour with a visit to the bustling Dong Ba Market, the largest in Hue, where you can browse for unique cultural gifts and local specialties.

 

Overnight in Hue

Discover the traditional crafts and cultural heritage of Hue with a visit to three iconic villages. Begin at Phuoc Tich Village, a 500-year-old heritage village known for its ancient houses and famous ceramic craftsmanship, where you’ll explore well-preserved architecture and local artisans at work. Continue to Phu Cam Village, the heart of Hue’s conical hat-making tradition, where you’ll learn about the intricate process of crafting these iconic Vietnamese hats. Conclude your journey at Thuy Xuan Village, renowned for its colorful incense-making. Here, you can watch artisans create fragrant incense sticks and capture the vibrant beauty of this artisanal craft. Concluding at Truc Chi Gallery, where you’ll admire stunning bamboo paper art innovations.

 

Overnight in Hue

Explore the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Hue with a visit to its most iconic sites. Begin at Tu Hieu Pagoda, a serene and historic temple known for its connection to Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. Continue to the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, an architectural masterpiece reflecting the harmony of nature and Confucian ideals. Next, visit the Khai Dinh Tomb, which blends Eastern and Western design in a lavish, artistic display. Discover the beauty of Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Hue perched along the Perfume River. Short excursion to boat port then boat cruise will take you along the peaceful Perfume River (Huong River), admire the beautiful landscapes and the sunset. Enjoy Vietnamese traditional folk song on boat cruise.

 

Overnight in Hue

Embark on a scenic journey from Hue to Hoi An, passing through breathtaking landscapes. Stop at the Hai Van Pass, where you can capture stunning photos and enjoy panoramic views of Da Nang City and its coastline. Continue to Da Nang for a delicious local lunch before exploring the Cham Museum, home to an impressive collection of Cham artifacts showcasing the region’s ancient culture. Visit Non Nuoc Village, famous for its traditional stone carving craftsmanship. Finally, arrive at Hoi An Ancient Town, where you can stroll through its charming streets, admire historic architecture, and immerse yourself in the town’s rich heritage.

 

Overnight in Hoi An

Begin your day with a boat ride from Hoi An to Kim Bong Village, known for its traditional woodworking and boat-building craftsmanship. Explore the village, meet local artisans, and observe their intricate techniques. Continue by boat to Thanh Ha Village, famous for its centuries-old pottery traditions. Watch skilled potters at work and try your hand at shaping clay. In the afternoon, switch to a bicycle and ride to Tra Que Village, a peaceful farming community. Discover the art of organic vegetable cultivation, interact with local farmers, and enjoy the serene countryside before cycling back to Hoi An.

 

Overnight in Hoi An

Enjoy leisure breakfast then transfer to Da Nang for your flight. Upon arrival, prepare for your onward journey, leaving with cherished memories