Vietnam – The Hidden Gem: Explore the Untouched Wonder

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your private guide and chauffeur. After a smooth transfer to the city, unwind with a 60-minute aromatherapy massage — the perfect way to rejuvenate after your long-haul flight.

Check in at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, a timeless 5-star landmark that has hosted diplomats, writers, and celebrities since the French colonial era. The hotel’s blend of Indochine elegance and contemporary luxury sets the tone for your journey through Vietnam’s hidden gems.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at Madame Hien, a refined restaurant housed in a restored French villa, where Hanoi’s most celebrated chefs reinterpret classic Vietnamese recipes with modern sophistication.

Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Note: The day’s schedule can be tailored based on your arrival time and personal preferences.

After breakfast at the hotel, your private guide and driver will escort you through the heart of Hanoi’s colonial and cultural heritage. Begin with a walking and cyclo tour through the French Quarter, gliding past landmarks like the Opera House, Metropole Hotel, the former Bank of Indochina, and the École Française d’Extrême-Orient.

Next, wander into the labyrinth of the Old Quarter, among narrow alleys filled with local life, markets, and artisans. Pause at Hoan Kiem Lake and cross the iconic bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, an elegant sanctuary on its own island.

Then visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first ever university, founded in 1070, where Scenic gardens and stone turtle monuments embody the scholarly heritage of the country.

In the afternoon, travel to Ha Thai Lacquer Village, 25 km south of the city, to meet master artisan Mr. Mến. Tour his workshop and learn about Vietnam’s fine-lacquer techniques.

At night, attend "Lang Toi – My Village", a poetic cultural performance combining acrobatics, bamboo movement, and live folk music. Return to your hotel for an evening at your leisure.

Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Rise early for a distinctive start to your day with a private Vespa tour. Ride through the streets surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals practice tai chi and morning markets awaken the city. Continue to Quang An Flower Market, Hanoi’s largest wholesale flower exchange.

After this colourful experience, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of phở followed by the city’s signature egg coffee, a creamy, sweet indulgence born in Hanoi.

Next, visit Phu Tay Ho Temple, dedicated to the Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh, an important spiritual site beloved by Hanoians. From here, admire panoramic views across West Lake, the capital’s largest and most picturesque body of water.

Enjoy a refined lunch at an upscale local restaurant, then spend the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps relaxing at your hotel spa or exploring Hanoi’s art boutiques and galleries.

In the late afternoon, transfer to Hanoi Railway Station for your overnight luxury train journey to Lao Cai, gateway to the misty mountains of Sapa. Settle into your private sleeper cabin and drift off to the rhythm of the rails.

Overnight: Lao Cai (Luxury night train)

Arrive at Lao Cai Station around 6:00 a.m., where your private driver will meet you for a scenic one-hour transfer (35 km) along winding mountain roads to Sapa, often called the “Town in the Clouds.”

Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant, followed by access to a day-use room with shower facilities for the perfect chance to refresh after your overnight train journey.

In the afternoon, set out on a trek through some of northern Vietnam’s most picturesque valleys. Begin in Ma Tra Village, home to the Black H’mong people, and continue toward Ta Phin, inhabited by the Red Dao minority. Along the way, admire the steps of rice fields, forested hillsides, and glimpses of rural life that reflect centuries of mountain tradition. This hike (suitable for all fitness levels) winds through the serene Ma Tra and Suoi Ho valleys, ending in Ta Phin Village, where your driver will pick you up.

Continue to Thanh Kim Village (30 km – approx. 1 hour) and check in at the award-winning Topas Ecolodge, an eco-luxury retreat located high above the valleys. Spend the evening at leisure, taking in breathtaking panoramic views as the sun sets.

Overnight: Topas Ecolodge, Sapa

After breakfast at the lodge, depart for Thanh Phu Village, where today’s journey begins with a hike through the picturesque valleys of Sapa. Follow quiet mountain paths leading toward Ban Ho Village, passing through Nam Toa, home to the Tay ethnic minority.

As you walk, observe the peaceful rhythm of rural life, such as farmers tending terraced rice fields, children playing by mountain streams, and women weaving beneath traditional stilt houses. The Tay people have preserved their customs for generations, offering an intimate window into Vietnam’s timeless highland culture.

Arrive in Ban Ho Village, where you’ll be warmly welcomed for a traditional home-cooked lunch prepared by a local family. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing swim beneath a nearby waterfall with stunning natural surroundings.

In the late afternoon, your driver will transfer you directly back to Lao Cai Railway Station for your return to Hanoi aboard the Victoria Express, an elegant overnight train offering comfort and charm reminiscent of colonial-era travel.

Overnight: Hanoi (Victoria Express Train)

Arrive at Hanoi Railway Station early in the morning (~ 5:00 a.m.), where a private driver will meet you and transfer you to a day-use room with shower facilities, allowing you to refresh and relax after your overnight train journey.

After breakfast, depart by private car for Ha Long Bay (approx. 210 km – 4.5 hours by road). The drive reveals glimpses of Vietnam’s countryside before reaching one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, whose name means “the Bay where the Dragon Descends.”

Upon arrival, board your luxury cruise just before noon. Enjoy a welcome drink as the crew introduces the day’s itinerary before settling into your elegant private cabin. A gourmet seafood lunch is served as the vessel glides among nearly 2,000 limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald waters. Often, a sight is described as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

In the afternoon, visit a mystical limestone cave once used by local fishermen, then return to the ship to relax and admire the sunset over the bay.

Indulge in a fine dining seafood dinner and spend a peaceful night on board.

Overnight: Ha Long Bay (Luxury Cruise)

Wake early to enjoy breakfast while indulging in the breathtaking view of Ha Long Bay. As the sun rises, your cruise moves toward Vung Vieng Floating Village, where you’ll board a traditional sampan boat to explore the life of local fishermen surrounded by limestone peaks and emerald waters.

Continue your journey through the heart of Bai Tu Long Bay, passing striking karst formations sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion. A final a la carte lunch is served on board as your boat makes its way back to port.

Later on, you'll be transferred by a private car to Hanoi Airport, where you’ll catch your flight to Nha Trang (southern coast). Upon arrival at Cam Ranh Airport, your driver will escort you to the luxurious Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort & Spa, which is accessible only by boat. Nestled within a secluded bay framed by dramatic mountains and crystal-clear waters, this world-renowned retreat offers absolute privacy, barefoot luxury, and harmony with nature.

Dinner at leisure and overnight in your private villa overlooking the sea.

Overnight: Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort & Spa, Nha Trang

Note: Alternative luxury resorts can be arranged upon request and budget.

Enjoy a full day of relaxation at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort & Spa. Unwind on the pristine beach or by your private pool, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the bay. Optional activities such as snorkelling or diving can be arranged for those wishing to explore the crystal-clear waters.

Overnight: Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort & Spa, Nha Trang

Spend another day at leisure at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort & Spa. Relax on the soft white sands, swim in the clear waters, or simply enjoy the serenity of your private villa. Optional snorkelling and water activities are available upon request.

Overnight: Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort & Spa, Nha Trang

Enjoy your morning at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort & Spa before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival, your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in downtown Saigon. After check-in, take some time to relax or explore the bustling streets at your own pace.

At 6:00 PM, embark on an exclusive “Saigon by Night” Jeep tour, offering a new perspective of the city’s vibrant nightlife. Ride through illuminated boulevards and lively districts, past colonial landmarks and hidden local hangouts. Discover Saigon’s true rhythm as how locals do, energetic, modern, and full of contrasts.

For dinner, you’ll skip the typical tourist spots and instead be taken to a local-favourite restaurant, where authentic Southern Vietnamese cuisine is served in a lively atmosphere. This evening offers the perfect blend of culture, flavour, and excitement.

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

After breakfast at your hotel, begin a guided exploration of Ho Chi Minh City. Start with a visit to the Reunification Palace, once the home and workplace of the South Vietnamese president before 1975. Continue to the War Remnants Museum, which houses powerful exhibits and photographs depicting the country’s history and resilience.

Before lunch, admire two of Saigon’s most iconic colonial landmarks, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both architectural masterpieces of the French era. Take a walk along Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), lined with luxury boutiques, historic buildings, and coffee shops.

In the afternoon, visit Giac Lam Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest temples, followed by an exploration of Chinatown (Cho Lon) and Binh Tay Market, where generations of Chinese-Vietnamese merchants continue their age-old trades.

On your return, stop at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, an atmospheric Taoist temple adorned with intricate sculptures and fragrant incense. A perfect ending to a day of cultural immersion.

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

After breakfast at your hotel, depart by car for Cai Be (approx. 110 km – 2.5 hours), the gateway to the Mekong Delta, a vast network of waterways formed by the legendary “Nine Dragons” River.

Board the Bassac Cruise around noon and enjoy a welcome drink as you meet the crew and settle into your private cabin. The boat begins its journey toward Cho Lach, moving along the Tiền Giang River.

A gourmet lunch is served onboard while the boat passes lively river scenes of floating markets, fruit orchards, and stilted villages. As you enter the Cho Lach Canal, watch the daily local life unfold, from farmers tending fields to children waving from riverbanks.

In the afternoon, disembark for a leisurely walk or short cycling excursion through peaceful countryside paths, visiting local homes and tropical gardens. Return to the Bassac in time for sunset cocktails on the deck, followed by a freshly prepared dinner as the boat sails toward Mang Thit.

Overnight: Bassac Cruise

Note: Cruise itinerary may vary depending on weather and safety conditions.

The Bassac Cruise resumes its journey toward Can Tho. A hearty breakfast is served on board while the sun rises over the river, illuminating the delta’s floating life.

Upon arrival in Can Tho, transfer to a smaller boat to explore the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant in the Mekong Delta. Glide among colourful boats piled high with tropical fruits, vegetables, and flowers, showcasing the daily commerce and local culture.

Later, take part in a hands-on bamboo basket–weaving workshop, where local artisans will share their craft and invite you to create a small souvenir to take home.

Return to Ninh Kieu Pier. After lunch at a riverside restaurant in Can Tho, journey back to Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 4 hours by road). On the way, stop at a fascinating Cao Dai Temple, where Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity blend harmoniously into one unique faith.

Arrive in Saigon by evening for dinner

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your flight for departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to relax or take a short stroll through the nearby streets for some last-minute shopping or photography.

At the scheduled time, your private driver will transfer you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight.

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