Cultural Holidays to Vietnam: 7 Days

Highlights of the Trip

Vietnam is full of breath-taking landscapes, delicious cuisine and fascinating culture. If you are considering a holiday to Vietnam, then this 7-Day Vietnam Holiday is the perfect way to experience the best of it!

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Hanoi

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Dedicated to the revolutionary leader and father of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh.
• Hoan Kiem Lake: One of the most iconic and picturesque spots in the city.
• Thang Long Royal Citadel: This has a rich history dating back to the 11th century when it was first built by Emperor Ly Thai To.
• Old Quarter:  This historic neighbourhood boasts a rich heritage that dates back to the 11th century.

Hoi An

• Guided Tour.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Traditional Water Puppetry: A unique art form that originated in the Red River Delta region of Vietnam around the 11th century. This form of entertainment involves controlling handcrafted wooden puppets that are floating on water, accompanied by live music, singing, and storytelling. The traditional water puppetry is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and has been passed down through generations. This is a great experience to add to your Vietnam trip itinerary.

Street Life Experience: Embrace tradition, culture, and local cuisine with this 2 hour street life experience during your Vietnam travel. You can explore the Old Quarter while savouring delicious traditional dishes.

Cyclo Ride: These three-wheeled bicycle taxis, with a large seat in the front for passengers and a driver in the back, have been a popular mode of transportation in Hanoi for decades. As you hop on the back of a cyclo, you will immediately feel the lively energy of the city as you weave through the narrow streets, alleys, and markets.

Morning Tai Chi: Embrace the serenity of nature with a morning Tai Chi session aboard your magical cruise around Ha Long Bay.

Private Cooking Class: Explore the magical market of Hoi An where you will select your ingredients for your private cooking class. Professional chefs will guide you through this experience during your holiday to Vietnam. The country’s rich and diverse culture can be seen and tasted through its food, making it the perfect place to learn about Vietnamese cuisine.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Vietnam

During your Vietnam travel experience, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including pho, a flavourful noodle soup made with a rich broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken). This dish can be found at street food stalls, local restaurants, and even high-end establishments. Another iconic dish is banh mi, a French-inspired sandwich filled with different types of meats, cilantro, pickled carrots, and cucumber. It is a perfect blend of crispy bread and savoury fillings that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Orchard Cruise: Explore Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Cat Ba Island.

Accommodation of this Tour

Hanoi: MK Premier Boutique Hotel (a Vietnamese style hotel, located in the Hanoi Old quarter – Luxury City View room).

Lan Ha Bay: Orchid Trendy Cruise (Deluxe quality boat with elegant design – Deluxe Balcony cabin).

Hoi An: La Senta Hoi An (nice boutique hotel, well-appointed in Hoi An town – Deluxe Rice Field view).

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival & Water Puppet Show

Late afternoon arrival to Noi Bai airport in Hanoi. You’ll be met by your driver that will transfer you to your hotel for rest after your long-haul flight. In the evening you will be a bit refreshed and ready to attend your invitation for a traditional North Vietnam water puppet show. It explores the culture of the North of the country and is a good introduction to life in Hanoi. After this you will have some free time to explore your surroundings before returning for your hotel to be ready for your first full day in the capital city.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

Start your holiday to Vietnam with a full day of exploring Vietnam’s bustling capital, starting with a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. After that, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ngoc Ha Market in Ha Noi before moving on to the Temple of Literature, the country’s first university founded in the 11th century.

Stroll through the charming Old Quarter and indulge in a ‘Street Life’ experience, with the inclusion of a delicious street food brunch featuring traditional dishes. Take a cyclo ride through the iconic narrow streets and then make your way to the impressive Ethnology Museum for a glimpse into the 54 distinct ethnic groups of Vietnam in preparation for your upcoming trip to Ha Giang.

✓ Breakfast

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Be escorted to Ha Long Bay, a breath-taking UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular marine limestone ‘karst’ formations. As you arrive at Lot 32 – Tuan Chau Marina, take a moment to complete the check-in process at the waiting lounge. Soon after, you will embark on the Orchid Cruise and be welcomed with refreshing drinks. Make your way to the restaurant for a briefing on the itinerary and some essential safety instructions.

Lunch will be served as we sail through Ha Long Bay and its neighbouring Lan Ha Bay, a site recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Our journey continues with a bus ride to Trung Trang Cave, situated in the heart of Cat Ba Island’s National Park and known as the largest valley in the area. This remarkable cave has been shaped by nature over a span of 2000 years.

Afterwards, take a dip in the emerald waters of Tra Bau in Lan Ha Bay, a tranquil and less crowded spot. Be sure to attend the cooking demonstration and take advantage of the Happy Hour (buy 1 get 1) at the bar, while you witness the stunning sunset over the bay. For an extra treat, indulge in a massage. As the day winds down, delight in a fusion dinner showcasing the freshest ingredients and a fusion of French neoclassical and Oriental flavours. As night falls, take in the mesmerising beauty of the bay and, if you wish, try your hand at squid fishing or enjoy games like chess and cards.

Your accommodation for the night will be on board the Orchid Trendy Cruise. This lavish boat features 20 exquisite cabins, each thoughtfully designed with contemporary aesthetics in mind. Most cabins also boast private balconies, allowing you to soak up the magnificent scenery of Ha Long Bay at your leisure. Additionally, all cabins are equipped with air-conditioning and offer spectacular views of the bay. This is a must-visit experience that should not be missed off your Vietnam trip itinerary!

✓ Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: Lan Ha Bay Cruise & Hoi An Transfer

Rejuvenate and treat yourself to the serene surroundings of the bay with a tai chi class on the sundeck. For early risers, we recommend waking up between 5:30 and 6:00 (depending on the season) to join our sailors on a dawn hunt. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at our on-board restaurant as we continue the cruise.

During your travel in Vietnam, uncover the hidden gems of Ha Long – Lan Ha Bay with our kayaking excursion in the Ao Ech area. As we welcome you back on board Orchid Cruises, it will soon be time to check out. Savour a delectable brunch in our restaurant while we sail back to Tuan Chau Marina. Bid farewell and disembark as we conclude the cruise. Your car will be waiting to take you directly to the airport for your flight to Danang.

✓ Brunch

Day 5: Hoi An Ancient Town

Following breakfast, a guide will take you on a tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, highlighting its significant role in the history of Vietnam. After lunch at a local eatery, you will return to your hotel and have the remainder of the day to unwind.

Hoi An is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its rich history as a bustling trading port. This meeting point of diverse cultures is reflected in the unique architectural elements of its wooden buildings. The original street layout remains, as well as the quay that once welcomed ships from all corners of East Asia and beyond. Many ships would often stay for extended periods, waiting for favorable winds to continue their journey. Additionally, Hoi An boasts numerous excellent restaurants offering a range of cuisines and prices. The town is also renowned for its silk, and visitors can easily have custom-made clothing created within a day or two at a reasonable cost.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Hoi An Farming Cycling Tour

After your morning meal, your designated driver will promptly arrive at your accommodation to transport you to Otta Cuisine. From there, you will embark on a leisurely bike ride to Tra Que Vegetable Farm, admiring the stunning scenery of lush rice fields and gardens while experiencing the lifestyle of the local farmers. Upon return to Otta Cuisine, take a break and collect your traditional conical hat and bag before venturing to the bustling Hoi An market.

Here, you will have the opportunity to interact with friendly merchants and purchase fresh ingredients for your upcoming cooking class. Once you have completed your shopping, return to the eatery where our skilled chefs will lead you through a step-by-step lesson in preparing delectable dishes. After the class, savour your own creations and after lunch, you will have the remainder of the day to explore Hoi An at your leisure before retiring for the evening.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Danang Transfer & Departure Flight

Free time in the morning to explore Hoi An before your holiday to Vietnam is over. The driver will then transfer to Danang airport for your return flight home.

✓ Breakfast

Price

Price: £1,249

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, relax at the hotel, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

Day 2: Explore Hanoi’s highlights including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Ngoc Ha Market, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter, followed by a street food brunch and a visit to the Ethnology Museum.

Day 3: Cruise through the stunning Ha Long Bay, visit Trung Trang Cave, swim in Tra Bau, and enjoy onboard activities and amenities on the Orchid Trendy Cruise.

Day 4: Participate in tai chi and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, indulge in brunch on board, then transfer to Hoi An.

Day 5: Discover the charms of Hoi An Ancient Town with a guided tour, followed by free time to relax or explore further.

Day 6: Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Farm, shop at Hoi An market, attend a cooking class, and enjoy free time in Hoi An.

Day 7: Spend your morning exploring Hoi An before transferring to Danang airport for your departure flight.

FAQs

1. What type of accommodations are provided during the tour?
   • Throughout the tour, accommodations range from comfortable hotels in Hanoi and Hoi An to luxurious cabins aboard the Orchid Trendy Cruise in Ha Long Bay.
2. Are meals included in the tour package?
   • Yes, the tour includes daily breakfast, as well as specified lunches, dinners, and onboard meals during the Ha Long Bay Cruise.
3. How much free time is allotted for exploration during the tour?
   • The itinerary allows for free time in the evenings and on certain days, particularly in Hoi An, for independent exploration or relaxation.
4. Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?
   • Yes, entrance fees to specified attractions mentioned in the itinerary, such as Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Trung Trang Cave, are included in the tour package.
5. What transportation methods are used during the tour?
   • Transportation varies from private transfers with designated drivers to a cruise ship for the Ha Long Bay excursion, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the journey.
6. Is there a dress code or any specific attire required for any part of the tour?
   • While there is no strict dress code, comfortable clothing and suitable footwear are recommended, especially for activities such as kayaking and cycling.
7. Are English-speaking guides available throughout the tour?
   • Yes, experienced English-speaking guides accompany the tour group during scheduled activities, providing insights and assistance along the way.