Essential Vietnam 11 Days

Today is your chance to explore Hanoi at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll around the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, wander along tree-lined boulevards, or indulge in the local street food delights - ever tried spring rolls wrapped in rice paper? If you're looking for a bit of culture, visit the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, the serene Temple of Literature or the city's Fine Arts Museum. Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a 3.5-hour journey by bus and ferry to reach Cat Ba Island, the largest islet in the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay. This area boasts a quintessential Vietnamese scenery where emerald green waters are studded with traditional junk boats and limestone karsts. Glide around Lan Ha Bay on a cruise and savor a delectable seafood lunch prepared by your on-board chef. Get up close and personal with the breathtaking landscape by kayaking around the bay. Accommodation: Hotel

Good morning! After breakfast, we'll take a ferry back to the mainland and head to Ninh Binh province, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once Vietnam's capital. Hoa Lu, the former capital in the 10th and 11th centuries, is our destination today. Join a local guide on a cycling tour to explore the ancient citadel, which once covered 300 hectares of land but now has few remaining ruins. You'll also visit 17th-century temples built in honor of King Dinh and King Le, among other temples, pagodas, monuments, and lush grounds surrounded by mountains. Accommodation: Hotel

Today is your day to discover other wonders of Ninh Binh. You may choose to hike to the incredible Mua Cave, which sits at the base of a mountain. However, be sure to climb the 500 steps to the mountain peak for stunning views of Hoa Lu and Ngo Dong River. Or perhaps take a boat tour and sail past limestone karst peaks, caves, temples, and maybe even locations where King Kong was filmed. Tonight, we'll board an overnight train to Hue (approximately 13 hours). Accommodation: Overnight Train

After arriving in Hue by train, you’ll have the day to explore the former imperial capital of Vietnam at your leisure. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the city by wandering through the sprawling walled citadel and exploring the Forbidden Purple Palace nestled within. Alternatively, hop aboard a dragon boat and sail up the Perfume River to visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Dong Ba Market is another must-see, boasting local handicrafts, fresh produce, and delectable street food. Sample the royal rice dish known as banh khoai, once a staple in the feasts of Emperor Nguyen. For a bit of adventure, rent a bike and pedal out to one of the royal tombs, such as the well-preserved tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. End the day on a high note by sharing a home-cooked meal with a local family, laughing and conversing over delicious food with new friends. Accommodation: Hotel

Today, we’ll continue our coastal journey and make our way by private bus (approximately 3 hours) to Hoi An. Upon arrival, your knowledgeable guide will take you on an enlightening walking tour of this captivating town. Hoi An is a unique destination that reflects its diverse influences from Europe, China, Vietnam, and Japan, which has resulted in a beautiful blend of cultures. Once a major trading port from the 17th century, the town still retains its old-school charm, as evidenced by its stunning architecture. It’s a small town, but it offers plenty of things to see and do, whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a more relaxed vibe. The walking tour will take you through the charming, restored streets, which look as if they have been frozen in time for more than 100 years. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to visit a historic house, which was once the home of a prominent trader, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall, and a museum. Accommodation: Hotel

Get your day off to a great start by taking a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque surroundings of Hoi An, before arriving at a local chef's organic vegetable and herb gardens. Here, you'll discover the secrets behind the delectable flavours that make Vietnamese cuisine so irresistible. After a tour of the gardens, indulge in a scrumptious lunch featuring some of the fresh ingredients you picked earlier. This garden is also committed to reducing food waste by composting, recycling, and reusing as much as possible. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Perhaps stroll through the bustling Central Market, where you can admire an array of paintings, woodwork, ceramics, and lanterns. Hoi An is famous for its talented tailors, so why not treat yourself to something new and have a shirt tailored just for you? If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bicycle and explore the surrounding countryside or take a ride to the coastline and spend the afternoon enjoying the beauty of the South China Sea. This is one of the best ways to travel in and out of town. Accommodation: Hotel

Lucky you, you have another free morning to spend in this historic haven. You may want to venture out to the My Son temples, listed as a World Heritage Site and boasting a rich cultural heritage from the Cham civilization. Alternatively, join a cooking class and learn how to recreate some of the delicious dishes you have tasted on your travels. If you're up for a bit of exercise, climb the stairs or take the escalator up the Marble Mountains and discover the many pagodas, tunnels, caves and shrines. Later in the day, board your overnight train to Ho Chi Minh City, where you can relax and enjoy a comfortable journey (approximately 16 hours). Accommodation: Overnight Train

After arriving in Ho Chi Minh City in the early morning (approximately 5:45 am) and transferring to your hotel, you can leave your luggage in a day room before embarking on your city tour. Previously known as Saigon, the city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a unique blend of influences from France, China, and Vietnam. You can indulge in some of the best baguettes and coffee that reflect the French influence and also sample spicier, sweeter, and diverse Vietnamese cuisine. Take advantage of the early morning by exploring the local markets and sampling some pho, the staple dish of Vietnam. Your tour leader will suggest the best places to visit during your free time. The Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum are worth a visit. During your tour, you will visit a local market where you can try exotic street food while sipping on the iconic Saigon café sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) as your tour leader shares fascinating stories about life in Ho Chi Minh City. In the evening, why not gather your group for a meal and drinks on Pham Ngu Lao Street? Accommodation: Hotel

Today is a free day for you to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace before departing for home or continuing on your travels. If you want to stay longer and experience more of this vibrant city, additional accommodation can be arranged (subject to availability). The Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, make for an interesting day trip from the city. Alternatively, you could use Ho Chi Minh City as a jumping-off point to explore the scenic Mekong Delta or relax on the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island. For more ideas and insider tips, chat with your knowledgeable group leader or book an immersive Urban Adventures tour at urbanadventures.com. Whatever you choose, we hope you've had an unforgettable adventure exploring the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and delicious cuisine of Vietnam. Safe travels! Accommodation: None.