8 Day
Private Tour
Vietnam is a country where ancient traditions, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant coastal cities blend into an unforgettable travel experience. This 8-day Vietnam Discovery Tour is designed to showcase the very best of Northern and Central Vietnam, combining cultural heritage, natural wonders, and relaxing coastal charm. Your journey begins in Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital known for its historic temples, lively Old Quarter, and rich culinary traditions. Here, travelers will experience authentic local life through a city exploration and an interactive Vietnamese cooking class. The adventure continues to the breathtaking landscapes of Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land,” where limestone mountains rise above peaceful rice fields and winding rivers. The highlight of the northern journey is an overnight cruise through the world-famous Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands. Guests will enjoy kayaking, cave exploration, and a luxurious cruise experience surrounded by spectacular scenery. The tour then continues to Central Vietnam with a flight to Da Nang, a modern coastal city. From here, travelers will visit the stunning Ba Na Hills resort and walk across the iconic Golden Bridge, one of Vietnam’s most famous architectural landmarks. The journey concludes in Hoi An, a beautifully preserved ancient trading town known for its lantern-lit streets, historic houses, and vibrant local culture. A visit to the sacred My Son Sanctuary provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Champa civilization. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of cultural immersion, scenic exploration, and relaxing travel experiences, making it an ideal introduction to the beauty and diversity of Vietnam.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour and Cooking Class
Day 3: Ninh Binh Exploration
Day 4: Hanoi to Halong Bay Cruise
Day 5: Halong Bay to Hanoi then Flight to Da Nang
Day 6: Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge then Transfer to Hoi An
Day 7: My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An Ancient Town
Day 8: Departure from Da Nang
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel in the center of Hanoi. After checking in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax after your flight or explore the capital city at your own pace.
You may take a walk around the Old Quarter to experience the lively atmosphere, visit local cafés, or enjoy your first taste of Vietnamese cuisine. Overnight in Hanoi.
After breakfast at the hotel, begin a guided city tour to explore the cultural and historical highlights of Hanoi.
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex where the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh is kept. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the 11th century and a symbol of the country’s long educational tradition.
Explore the bustling Old Quarter, famous for its narrow streets, traditional shops, and vibrant street life.
In the afternoon, join a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class where you will learn to prepare several traditional dishes under the guidance of a professional chef. After cooking, enjoy the delicious meal you have created.
Overnight in Hanoi.
After breakfast, depart from Hanoi for Ninh Binh province, located about two hours south of the capital. Known as “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is famous for its dramatic limestone mountains rising from peaceful rice fields and rivers.
Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Explore historic temples dedicated to the former kings and learn about the early history of the Vietnamese nation.
Continue with a traditional sampan boat ride through the spectacular limestone caves and waterways of Trang An or Tam Coc. During the journey, you will pass through beautiful landscapes of mountains, rice paddies, and hidden caves.
After lunch, enjoy a cycling trip through quiet countryside villages surrounded by rice fields and rural scenery before returning to Hanoi in the late afternoon.
Overnight in Hanoi.
After breakfast, depart Hanoi and travel to Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Upon arrival, board a luxury cruise and begin sailing through the emerald waters of the bay surrounded by thousands of limestone islands and dramatic rock formations.
During the cruise, participate in activities such as kayaking, swimming, or exploring impressive limestone caves. Relax on the sun deck and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner onboard while admiring the peaceful atmosphere of the bay.
Overnight on the cruise in Halong Bay.
Wake up early to enjoy the peaceful sunrise over Halong Bay. After breakfast, continue cruising through the bay while passing more spectacular limestone formations.
Enjoy brunch onboard as the cruise slowly returns to the harbor.
Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi Airport for your domestic flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival in Da Nang, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight in Da Nang.
After breakfast, depart for Ba Na Hills, a mountain resort located about 1,500 meters above sea level.
Ride the famous Ba Na Hills cable car, one of the longest cable car systems in the world, offering spectacular views of forests and mountains.
Visit the iconic Golden Bridge, a unique architectural masterpiece supported by giant stone hands rising from the mountain. Continue exploring the French Village, beautiful gardens, and mountaintop temples.
After lunch, transfer to the ancient town of Hoi An, one of the most charming destinations in Vietnam.
Overnight in Hoi An.
After breakfast, travel to My Son Sanctuary, the former spiritual center of the Champa Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the ancient temple ruins hidden in the jungle and learn about the fascinating history and architecture of the Champa civilization.
In the afternoon, return to Hoi An and begin a walking tour of the Ancient Town. Visit historic merchant houses, ancient temples, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge.
Stroll along the lantern-lit streets, explore local markets, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this well-preserved trading port.
Overnight in Hoi An.
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time to relax or explore the town before your departure.
At the scheduled time, transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your onward flight.
End of the tour.
