23 Days 23 Nights Vietnam Discovery Itinerary: Explore North to South Highlights

Early Morning at Hoan Kiem Lake Witness the city wake up at sunrise. Join the locals for Tai Chi, jogging, or communal ballroom dancing. You’ll also see competitive matches of shuttlecock kicking, a favorite local pastime, all set against the misty backdrop of the lake. Breakfast Like a Local Skip the hotel brunch and head to the bustling sidewalk stalls where Hanoians congregate. Essential dishes to try include:

• Beef Phở: The gold standard of Vietnamese breakfast.
• Crab Noodle Soup: A tangy, savory broth made from freshwater crabs.
• Hanoi Chicken Noodles: An elegant, multicolored vermicelli soup.
• Savory Sticky Rice: Topped with smooth mung bean paste and crispy shallots.

Iconic Old Hanoi Coffee Culture Hanoi’s coffee scene is hidden in the shadows of narrow alleys and colonial-era lofts. Seek out:

• Cafe Giảng: The legendary birthplace of creamy Egg Coffee.
• Cafe Đinh: A nostalgic, no-frills attic café overlooking the lake.
• Alleyway Cafés: Tucked-away spots where locals spend hours on tiny stools.

Wander Through Fresh Wet Markets

For a raw look at daily life, visit the neighborhood markets where locals shop for the day's groceries. These are vibrant, sensory experiences far removed from the tourist trail:

• Hang Da Market
• Ngoc Ha Market
• Cua Dong Market

Explore Hidden Alleys and Historic Apartments Stroll through the maze-like Hẻm (alleys) and the Khu Tập Thể (old Soviet-style apartment blocks). These areas are a microcosm of Hanoi life, featuring tangled overhead wires, street vendors, and intimate community spaces. Indulge in Sidewalk Snacks Street food is the soul of this city. Grab a plastic stool and try:

• Fried Fermented Pork: A popular savory snack for the younger crowd.
• Pillow Cakes: Crispy, deep-fried dumplings shaped like pillows.
• Steamed Rice Rolls: Delicate, thin sheets of rice batter served piping hot.

Traditional Music and Ca Trù Performances Experience an ancient art form that is part of UNESCO’s intangible heritage. These shows are often held in atmospheric communal houses or historic buildings within the Old Quarter. Cycle Around West Lake Follow the lead of the locals by heading to West Lake during the "golden hour." Rent a bicycle for a scenic 17km ride, or simply walk a section of the shore to enjoy the breeze and the sunset. Visit Sacred Local Temples

Beyond the famous sites, Hanoians find peace at these spiritual landmarks:

• Phu Tay Ho Temple: Dedicated to the Mother Goddess, offering beautiful lake views.
• Tran Quoc Pagoda: The city’s oldest pagoda, situated on a small island.
• Quan Thanh Temple: An ancient Taoist temple featuring a massive bronze statue.

Cooking Class with a Local Family Gain a deeper connection by visiting a local home. Start by navigating a wet market with your host, then learn to prepare traditional Hanoian family recipes in a real household kitchen. Motorbike Tour Through the Backstreets The best way to see Hanoi is from the back of a scooter. Zip through impossibly narrow lanes, past hidden markets, and across historic bridges that cars cannot access. Experience the "Real" Nightlife Forget the flashy clubs, real Hanoian evenings are spent outdoors:

• Weekend Pedestrian Zones: Street performances and folk games around the lake.
• Night Markets: Bustling stalls selling clothes and local snacks.
• Sidewalk Tea Stalls (Trà Đá): The ultimate local hangout. Sit on a low stool, sip iced tea, and enjoy the city’s evening energy.

Morning 8:30 : Tran Quoc Pagoda - West Lake The bus/car and tour guide will pick you up from hotel in old quarter about 8 AM, driving to Tran Quoc Pagoda is located on an island east of West Lake (Tay Ho District), with 1500-year history, which is considered to be the oldest in Thang Long-Hanoi. It was the Buddhist center of Thang Long citadel in the Ly and Tran dynasties. With its historical and architectural values, Tran Quoc pagoda is famous for its sacred Buddha land, which attracts many Buddhists and visitors to Vietnam. 9:30 : Ho Chi Minh complex Visitor to Ho Chi Minh complex ( Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, the presidential palace, house on stilts the final resting place of Uncle Ho, where He lived and worked from 1954- 1969). 11:00 : Vietnam Museum of Ethnology This is the most recent yet probably the largest and undoubtedly the most interesting Museums in Ha Noi and Viet Nam. There are both indoors and outdoors section, while the in – housed exhibition is particularly informative, the outdoors display and activities make the museum stand out from the rest. There are a number of houses modeling after the traditional architecture of ethnic minorities, especially those who live in Northern and Central highlands. 12:30 : Lunch Time Afternoon 14:00 : The temple of literature ( The first university in Vietnam) Being an ancient school of Thang Long and the first university in Vietnam, Temple of Literature is acknowledged as an ancient historical-cultural heritage which gives tourists deeper understanding about Hanoi -  years of culture and tradition. 15:00 : Hoa Lo Prison It were built in 1899. The French kept mainly political prisoners here along with those awaiting sentencing at the nearby Court of Justice, also where American pilots who had been shot down and captured were kept as prisoners of war. The pilots called it, sarcastically, the “Hanoi Hilton.” John McCain was held here at various times during his five and a half years as a POW. 16:00 : Clients will choose 2 options : Cooking class or watch water puppet show in Thang Long theater . After that, drop of customers at hotel At night Free to have your own dinner and free to explore Hanoi by night Overnight in Ha Noi. 

Morning 07:30 – 8:00: Get picked up by our friendly guide then depart for Ninh Binh province 09:15: Have a short break for 15 – 20 minutes to relax 10:30: Visit HoaLư ancient capital of Vietnam between 968 and 1010. You have a chance to learn about Vietnamese history in the feudal system under Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasty Here, we go cycling around the village for sightseeing & discovering the life of the local people 12:30: Have a buffet lunch in the restaurant with many local foods such as goat meat, fish, chicken, and fried rice…Vegetarian foods are always available in the buffet lunch Afternoon 15:30: Visit Tam Coc by 1.5-hour bamboo boat.  You will be surprised by the charming beauty here with paddy fields, river, water, cloud, sky, and a stunning cave system during the boat trip. All make a masterpiece that the Vietnamese people called “Ha Long Bay on land” 15:30:Get back to Limousine Bus then leave for Mua Cave (Dancing Cave). Walk up almost 500 steps, you can reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain & have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here. 17h00 : Check in Bungalow/Hotel then free time to relax (can use swimming pool in summer time) 19:00 : Have dinner at bungalow/hotel then walk around Tam Coc for awalk

Morning 8:00: Have breakfast at Hotel/ Bungalow then check out and be ready for the trip 9:45 - 10:00 :Get picked up then transfer to BaiDinh Pagoda 10:30: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda – the most famous & biggest Pagoda in southeast Asia with many records set such as 500 Stone - Arhat Statues, 36 ton-bronze Bell, 100 ton-Budhha Statues… 12:30: Have lunch in the restaurant with a lot of local foods such as goat meat, fish, chicken fried rice…. Vegetarian foods are always available in the buffet lunch Afternoon 13:30: Visit TràngAn whichwas recognized by UNESCO as A World Heritage Site in 2014. TrangAn has a wonderful tunnel cave system so Kong’s Movie Group chose this place for the New Version of Kong in 2016 – “Skull Island”. With 2.5 hours for the boat trip, you will be persuaded by the beauty here. 14:30: Get on the CAR to transfer to Mai Chau valley 17:30: Get dropped off at mai Chau and check in and rest

 MAI CHAU VALLEY – FULL DAY TOUR

 Morning

 Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day in the fresh mountain air of Mai Châu.

 Cycling Tour Through Mai Châu Valley

Enjoy a gentle bike ride through the peaceful countryside.

Along the way, you will visit:

 Lac & Pom Coong Villages – Traditional Thai ethnic villages with stilt houses and weaving artisans.

 Rice Fields & Bamboo Forests – Scenic landscapes perfect for photos.

 Local Workshops – See how locals weave brocade or make traditional handicrafts.

 Village Paths – Quiet, picturesque routes that show true rural life.

 Afternoon  Relax at the HotelTake a break, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, or explore the village at your own pace.  Optional Visit: Chieu Cave (Hang Chiều)For those who enjoy light adventure, you can climb more than 1,200 stone steps to reach the cave.Inside, admire:  Impressive limestone formations  Panoramic views of Mai Châu Valley from the top  Evening  Overnight at the HotelEnjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Mai Châu at night. You may also walk around the village to see local evening life or shop for handmade textiles.23-Day Vietnam travel Discovery Itinerary

 MAI CHAU → PÙ LUÔNG NATURE RESERVE

Full Day Exploration with Timeline

 Morning

08:00 –  Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a fresh morning meal before departing.

09:00 –  Depart from Mai Chau to Pu Luong

Scenic drive through mountains, valleys, and local ethnic areas.

10:30 –  Begin Trekking in Kho Muong Valley

Explore:

 Thai ethnic villages

 Terraced rice fields

 Kho Muong Cave – part of one of the largest karst systems in the region.

 Afternoon

13:00 –  Lunch at local lodge/restaurant

14:00 –  Continue Trekking to Villages

Walk through bamboo forests, rice terraces, and hidden trails.

15:30 –  Visit Water Wheels & Cham River

See traditional bamboo water wheels

Optional: Bamboo rafting on the river

16:30 –  Visit Don Village, Bang Village, Chieng Chau…

Discover peaceful stilt houses, weaving artisans, and mountain panoramas.

 Evening

18:00 –  Check-in at Pu Luong Resort

Relax, enjoy the pool, take photos, or unwind in nature.

19:00 –  Dinner

Free evening – Enjoy the quiet mountain atmosphere.

Morning

08:00 –  Breakfast at the resort

Enjoy the peaceful mountain morning before starting your final Pu Luong adventure.

09:00 –  Trekking to a New Local Village

Walk through lush rice terraces, bamboo forests, and quiet village paths.

Discover daily life of Thai ethnic communities and enjoy fresh mountain scenery.

10:30 –  Visit & Swim at Hieu Waterfall (Thác Hiêu)

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Pu Luong:

Crystal-clear water

Natural pools perfect for swimming

Wooden bridges & small streams

Guests can relax, swim, or take photos in this refreshing natural paradise.

12:00 –  Lunch at a local restaurant near the waterfall

Enjoy traditional local dishes in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature.

Afternoon

13:30 –  Depart for Hanoi

Scenic drive back through mountains and countryside.

17:30–18:00 –  Arrival in Hanoi

Drop-off at your hotel.

Morning Arrive to the train station in Ha Noi, pick up and transfer to a mini hotel for take a short rest and having breakfast. 7.45am – 8.15am: Pick up at your hotel in Ha Noi by bus. After that we leave Hanoi for a 3.5 hour to reach  Ha Long 11:30: Upon arriving at Tuan Chau port, you will board a transfer boat that will take you to the cruise. Once onboard, you can enjoy a welcome drink and check-in to your accommodation. 12:30: Enjoy a delicious lunch and embark on a special and unique cruise that takes you through two breathtaking areas of Ha Long - Lan Ha Bay. Afternoon 14:30: The boat will take you on a scenic journey through the Gia Luan area, Thoi Quyt island, Ke Ga, and Finger - some of the most beautiful islands located in the southeast of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.. 16:00: You will have the opportunity to kayak and swim in the picturesque and enchanting Tra Bau Fishing Village area. Here, you can paddle your kayak to catch Snail Da and Ha Da while surrounded by the breathtaking limestone mountains of Lan Ha Bay. 17:00: After kayaking and swimming in the Tra Bau Fishing Village area, you will return to the Cruise to take part in two activities: the Sunset Party and relaxing in the Jacuzzi pool. During this time, guests can enjoy a relaxing moment while sipping a cup of traditional Vietnamese tea or coffee, indulging in fresh fruit on the Sundeck, and watching the gentle and peaceful sunset. At night 19:30: Enjoy a delectable dinner and then have free time to unwind. You can relax, go squid fishing, or watch a movie at the restaurant.

Morning 6:15: Wake up early, join the Tai Chi session on sundeck area, enjoy the fresh atmosphere and watch the sunrise in Lan Ha Bay. 7:00 – 7:45: Have breakfast. Admit morning view of bay’s landscape with a cup of tea or coffee. 08:00: Stroke the stunning views of the Bay and it’s dramatic limestone islets Visit the famous Tra Bau, it’s time for freely kayak and explore the landscape, or swim... 09:00: Back to your cabin, relax and check carefully all the luggage before leaving your cabin. 09:30: Check-out and enjoy a fantastic cruise on the bay for room service. Complete check out procedure and enjoy your brunch at cruise. 10:30: Enjoy the brunch at restaurant. 11:45: Travel by tender boat back to Tuan Chau International Marina where you then board the bus for your return journey to Hanoi. Transfer to Noi Bai airport for boarding the flight to DA NANG. Overnight in DA NANG Note: Timeline is just approximate

Today you will be free to relax.  Free Exploration in Da Nang

Spend some time relaxing on My Khe Beach. This beautiful, sandy beach is perfect for a morning swim or a leisurely walk.

 Wander through Han Market, a bustling market where you can shop for souvenirs, local produce, and traditional Vietnamese snacks.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Da Nang. Visit a rooftop bar or a riverside café to unwind and enjoy the city's night scene.

 If it's the weekend, head back to Dragon Bridge to witness the fire and water show (usually at 9 PM).

Enjoy your day exploring Da Nang!

Morning  Embarking on a captivating journey through the enchanting city of Hue! Begin your exploration with a serene boat trip to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a spiritual sanctuary nestled along the picturesque Perfume River. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city as we venture into the awe-inspiring Citadel and the Hue Royal Antiques Museum. Wander through the vibrant stalls of Dong Ba Market, where the essence of local life unfolds before your eyes. Indulge in a delectable lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring the flavors of Hue's culinary delights. The adventure continues as we pay homage to the royal legacy with visits to the majestic tombs of King Minh Mang and King Khai Dinh. Delve into the intricate craftsmanship and architectural marvels that echo the grandeur of Vietnam's imperial past. Our expedition takes a cultural turn as we journey to a quaint village, where skilled hands meticulously craft incense sticks and traditional conical hats. Engage with the local artisans, gaining insight into their time-honored techniques. With hearts full of memories, we seamlessly transition to the charming town of Hoi An, leaving behind the echoes of Hue's imperial splendor. This travel experience promises not just a tour but a symphony of cultural encounters, where each moment is a vibrant brushstroke painting the canvas of your Hue adventure. Night : Overnight in  HOI AN

Morning  Vietnam travel package, begin your day with a delightful morning breakfast at the hotel. Our journey commences with a visit to the captivating My Son Sanctuary, a distinguished UNESCO World Heritage site that unfolds the rich tapestry of Vietnam's cultural heritage. Afternoon As the day progresses into the afternoon, immerse yourself in the charming ambiance of Hoi An town on a leisurely walking tour. Explore the vibrant Hoi An’s Colorful Local Market, where the hues of local life come to life in a bustling display. Venture into the Old House of Tan Ky, a historical gem steeped in stories and traditions. Continue the cultural odyssey at the Fu Jian Assembly Hall, an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the town's heritage. Conclude your journey across time at the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, an enduring symbol of Hoi An's cultural fusion. Embark on this travel experience, where each step unveils the tales of the past, and every moment is adorned with the grace of Hoi An's unique charm. Overnight in Hoi An

Today you will be free to relax.  Free Exploration in Hoi An

Have breakfast with cao lầu or Bánh Mì Phượng.

Explore the Ancient Town: Japanese Covered Bridge, Tấn Ký Old House, Fujian Assembly Hall.

Enjoy coffee at Faifo Coffee or Roving Chillhouse.

Experience a basket boat ride at Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

Lunch at Cơm Gà Bà Buội or Bếp Tre Hội An.

Relax at a café or take a short rest.

Visit An Bang or Cua Dai Beach.

Try a lantern-making workshop or a cooking class.

Dinner with Bánh Xèo Giếng Bá Lễ or White Rose Dumplings.

Stroll through the Ancient Town, release lanterns on the Hoai River.

End the day with a cocktail at Mót Hội An or Mango Mango.

Morning Breakfast at hotel. Then take excursion to: Bana Hills Embark on a 35-kilometer journey to Ba Na and elevate your experience with a breathtaking Cable Car ride, boasting 5 world records, leading you to the enchanting Ba Na Hills station. Pause at the captivating By Night station to explore Vong Nguyet hills, Linh Ung pagoda, and the charming Old Villas reminiscent of French architecture. Ascend further on the cable car to reach the summit of Nui Chua Mountain, the pinnacle of Ba Na range. Revel in panoramic views as you discover Nghinh Phong top, Le Nim Villas, and the serene Orchid Garden. The cable car journey itself is a mesmerizing experience, offering glimpses of the picturesque landscapes below. As your morning adventure unfolds, indulge in a scrumptious lunch at the club restaurant, savoring not just culinary delights but also the stunning vistas surrounding you. Bana Hills promises a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural wonders, making your visit an unforgettable travel experience. Afternoon Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you immerse yourself in the boundless fun of Fantasy Park, the third-largest indoor games zone in Vietnam. Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with a plethora of captivating games, including mind-bending 4-5D films, the adrenaline-pumping skiver, the pulse-quickening Death Race, and the enchanting Dinosaur Park. As the day transforms into night, indulge in a delectable dinner that captures the essence of Da Nang's culinary delights. With a satisfied palate, retire for the night in the heart of Hoi An and ready to embrace the wonders of tomorrow's adventures. EXCLUDED : The wax museum● Debay wine cellar, Alpine coaster ( customer by own tickets at counter if want to visit and play ) Overnight in HOI AN

Morning, enjoy breakfast at hotel. Spend your time at leisure in Da Nang until we trasnfer you to airport for flight to Nha Trang.

Upon arrival in Nha Trang, transfer to hotel for check-in. Rest of the day is your leisure time to explore the city on your own.

OVERNIGHT IN NHA TRANG

Today you will be free to relax. You may choose to snorkel or dive among the coral reefs in crystal blue waters, hike nature trails, cool off in your private plunge pool, indulge in spa treatments or just relax on the white sand beach and admire the unspoiled mountain and sea views before retiring for the evening. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Morning, enjoy breakfast at hotel. Spend your time at leisure in Nha Trang until we trasnfer you to airport for flight to Ho Chi Minh.

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh, transfer to hotel for check-in. Rest of the day is your leisure time to explore the city on your own.

Morning  08:00 – 08: 30 AM: Pick up at your hotel and start the city tour included: Independence Palace (the Reunification Palace) was built on the sight of the former Norodom palace. War Remnants Museum which has a vast display of the both the Indochina wars. Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office the beautiful structures from the French Colonial times Jade Emperor Pagoda with the peaceful atmosphere &o many stories behind each detail of the pagoda. 12:30 AM: Lunchtime with a famous Phở restaurant (Vietnamese noodle soup). Afternoon 02:00 PM: Depart around 1,5 hours through the pleasant countryside before arriving at Cu Chi Tunnels – the historic site where Vietnamese soldiers used as a shelter during wartime. This fantastic network stretches over 250 km and is the shelter of Vietnamese soldiers during the wars. There is a shooting range where you can try to fire automatic or semi-automatic weapons for a fee (this fee is not included) 06:00 – 07:00 PM: Be dropped off at your hotel. Dinner on your own account. Overnight at the hotel.

Dive into Saigon’s Legendary Street Food

Join a guided food tour or venture out to neighborhood stalls to taste the city's staples:

• Bánh Mì: The world-famous Vietnamese baguette sandwich.
• Phở: A southern-style bowl of noodle soup with fresh herbs and bean sprouts.
• Bún Thịt Nướng: Cold rice vermicelli topped with grilled pork and spring rolls.
• Cà Phê Sữa Đá: The iconic Saigon iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk.

Experience the Vibrant Coffee Culture Saigon runs on caffeine. Beyond the big chains, seek out these local favorites:

• Cà Phê Bệt: "Flat-seat" coffee, where locals sit on the ground in parks (like 30/4 Park) to socialize.
• Apartment Cafés: Trendy boutiques and cafés hidden inside repurposed old residential buildings (like 42 Nguyen Hue).
• Specialty Roasters: Visit local artisans who are elevating Vietnamese beans to a world-class level.

Wander Through Bustling Wet Markets To see the city’s heart, visit the markets where locals shop for daily groceries. Look past the souvenir stalls for the authentic side:

• Bến Thành Market: Explore the peripheral aisles where the real food and produce trade happens.
• Bà Chiểu Market: A high-energy market in Bình Thạnh District, perfect for seeing local life.
• Tân Định Market: Famous for its historic pink church nearby and its incredible fabric and food sections.

Explore on Two Wheels

The most authentic way to see Saigon is from the back of a motorbike. Zip through traffic and navigate hidden shortcuts to reach markets, temples, and street food stalls that are inaccessible by car.

Discover Character-Rich Neighborhoods

Get lost in the diverse districts that make up the city:

• Chinatown (Chợ Lớn): A historic area filled with ornate temples, traditional medicine shops, and wholesale markets.
• Old Apartment Blocks: Explore the "Chung Cư" (vintage residential complexes) to see how generations of Saigonese live.
• Narrow Alleys (Hẻm): Stroll through the labyrinthine alleyways where life spills out onto the street.

Join a Farm-to-Table Cooking Class Follow a chef to a local wet market to hand-pick fresh ingredients. Afterward, head to a home-style kitchen to learn the techniques behind classic Southern Vietnamese dishes. Witness the City’s Early Morning Rhythm Before the heat sets in, experience the cooler morning hours:

• Park Activities: Join locals practicing Tai Chi or aerobics in the public parks.
• Sunrise Markets: See the freshest produce arrive at dawn.
• Street Breakfast: Grab a quick bowl of noodles or a parcel of Xôi (sticky rice) from a sidewalk vendor.

Take a Quiet Riverside Boat Trip Escape the central bustle with a small boat excursion in District 7 or Thủ Đức. These less-touristy routes offer a glimpse of the city's greenery and the traditional riverside lifestyle. Visit Spiritual Landmarks Loved by Locals Find a moment of peace at these significant sites:

• Ba Thien Hau Temple: A stunning Chinese temple in District 5, known for its intricate porcelain dioramas and incense coils.
• Emperor Jade Pagoda: An atmospheric temple filled with intricate wood carvings and statues.
• Khanh Anh Monastery: A serene Buddhist site that offers a tranquil escape from the urban noise.

Enjoy Local Evening Life Skip the tourist bars and spend your night like a true Saigonese:

• Local Dessert Shops: Try Chè (sweet soup) or artisanal ice cream at popular neighborhood spots.
• Riverside Strolls: Walk along the Sài Gòn River or the Bến Nghé Canal to enjoy the evening breeze.
• Night Markets: Browse for local fashion and street snacks under the city lights.

Visit Contemporary Art Spaces Explore Saigon’s growing creative scene by visiting independent galleries and creative hubs:

• Factory Contemporary Arts Center: A leading space for modern Vietnamese art.
• Handicraft Workshops: Join a session to learn traditional crafts like pottery or lacquerware from local artisans.

 Goodbye Vietnam (B) After breakfast, enjoy some free time until our team transfers you to the airport for your departure flight. This concludes your journey through Vietnam. Thank you for traveling with us — we hope to welcome you back again in the future. Safe travels and goodbye Vietnam