Embark on a 13-day exploration of Vietnam’s rich history, culture, and heritage. From ancient capitals to vibrant modern cities, this tour offers a deep dive into the traditions, architecture, and stories that define the country.
Heritage and Traditions of Vietnam: A Journey Through Time
13 Days
Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hue – Hoi An – Danang – Ho Chi Minh City
Trip Highlights
- Explore the ancient countryside of Ninh Binh
- Understand the Feng Shui principles behind Hue’s Imperial City
- Take part in a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class Discover Vietnam’s American legacy in Saigon
Itinerary Summary
Day 1: Hanoi | Unveiling the Capital’s Charm
Begin your journey in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. Stroll through the lively streets of the Old Quarter, discovering the rich history behind each of the 36 streets, each once home to artisan guilds dating back to the 13th century.Day 2: Hanoi | Delving into Cultural Insights
Join an academic expert for a talk on Vietnam’s cultural heritage, followed by a visit to the Museum of Ethnology. Here, you’ll explore artifacts from Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. In the evening, enjoy the captivating ‘My Village’ cirque performance, which vividly portrays life in rural Vietnam.Day 3: Ninh Binh | Journey to Vietnam’s Past
Travel to Ninh Binh, home to the stunning Trang An Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a stronghold of Vietnam’s first centralized feudal state, and take a serene boat trip through Tam Coc to witness dramatic limestone karsts rising from the countryside.Day 4: Ninh Binh | Village Life and Local Traditions
Immerse yourself in the slow pace of rural Vietnam with a bike ride through quaint villages. Meet local farmers and fishermen, and participate in a family-hosted lunch, learning to cook local specialties such as grilled fish and sweet potato cakes.Day 5: Hanoi to Hue |
Discovering Imperial Grandeur Fly to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Visit the magnificent tombs of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, whose architectural splendor and historical significance offer a glimpse into the Nguyen Dynasty’s royal past.Day 6: Hue | Feng Shui and the Imperial City
Explore the ancient Imperial Citadel, designed with meticulous attention to Feng Shui principles. In the evening, dine at Princess Ngoc Son’s garden home, learning about royal life and the energy flow that shaped both the home’s architecture and daily living spaces.Day 7: Hue | Life in Ancient Villages
Visit Thanh Toan and Phuoc Tich, two ancient villages near Hue. Experience the timeless charm of traditional wooden houses and centuries-old pottery-making techniques. Enjoy a home-hosted meal, engaging in lively conversation with local residents about the village’s history.Day 8: Scenic Drive | Hai Van Pass to Hoi An
Embark on one of the world’s most scenic drives along Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic views of the East Sea and lush mountains. Arrive in Hoi An, a beautifully preserved former trading port where ancient streets and timeless architecture provide ample photographic opportunities.Day 9: Hoi An | Village Exploration and Culinary Delights
Cycle through the peaceful island of Cam Kim, just outside Hoi An. Explore traditional industries like boat making and mat weaving, before joining a hands-on cooking class by the river. Savor the dishes you helped prepare, all while enjoying stunning riverside views.
Day 10: Hoi An | Unveiling the My Son Cham Temples
Take an excursion to My Son, the spiritual heart of the ancient Champa civilization. Learn about its religious significance and capture images of the remaining Cham temple towers, which stand as a testament to this ancient kingdom’s architectural prowess.Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City | Exploring the American Legacy
Arrive in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, a hub of modernity with deep historical roots. Tour the city in a vintage sidecar, visiting landmarks like the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum, offering poignant insights into the Vietnam-American War. In the afternoon, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to understand the Viet Cong’s resilience during the war.Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City | A Morning with the Locals
Begin your day like a local, visiting the flower market and joining morning exercises in Tao Dan Park. Later, delve into Vietnam’s modernist architecture with an American expert, visiting key examples around the city. In the evening, experience Saigon’s vibrant nightlife on a thrilling Vespa food tour.Day 13: Departure | Farewell Vietnam
Conclude your journey with a transfer to the airport for your onward departure, carrying memories of Vietnam’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.Download Title
On each trip we will buy 1 tree to plant
By planting one tree on each journey, we aim to nurture nature and promote sustainability for future generations.