This 10 day itinerary explores northern and central Vietnam through immersive countryside experiences, ancient towns, and coastal beauty. Begin in Hanoi and journey through Pu Luong, a lush valley of rice terraces and traditional Thai villages. Enjoy hiking through local farmland, staying in eco lodges, and learning about rural life. Continue to Ninh Binh for a peaceful boat ride and visit hidden temples set among karst mountains and limestone caves.
Cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay on a luxury overnight junk, then fly to Hue to discover royal history and sample local cuisine. Cross the dramatic Hai Van Pass to reach Hoi An, a charming riverside town known for its lantern lit streets and friendly locals. Along the way, enjoy guided walking tours, a basket boat ride, and a local cooking experience. With a balance of relaxation, soft adventure, and cultural insight, this itinerary is perfect for active travellers looking to experience a different side of Vietnam.
Travellers arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi where they are welcomed by a local representative and transferred by private vehicle to their hotel. Once checked in, the remainder of the day is at leisure to rest and unwind or begin exploring the capital city at their own pace.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Flower Garden Hotel
An early start sees guests depart Hanoi between 7.00 and 8.00 for a full day trip to Ninh Binh. The first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, where visitors explore historic ruins and learn about the dynasties of Dinh and Le. A visit to the temples of Emperor Dinh offers insights into Vietnamese architecture and culture. Afterward, enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, continue the journey with a peaceful boat ride through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush countryside, this UNESCO listed area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. At the end of the excursion, transfer to a nearby hotel in Ninh Binh for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort
After breakfast, head out to explore Galaxy Grotto, one of Ninh Binh’s lesser known caves. Stretching over 800 metres, the grotto includes both dry and water sections and is famed for its spectacular stalactites and tranquil setting. Guests enjoy a boat ride through the cave before continuing on foot to admire its unique geological features. Later in the day, visit Thai Vi Temple, an important cultural site nestled in a peaceful rural landscape. The tour continues to Bich Dong Pagoda, built into a mountainside and offering sweeping views of rice paddies and limestone peaks. After exploring the area, return to Hanoi in the late afternoon for the evening at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Flower Garden Hotel
The morning is free for independent exploration. Guests may choose to relax or join one of several optional excursions such as a cooking class, a visit to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village or a guided walking tour of central Hanoi. In the late afternoon, from 16.30 to 17.00, the guided motorbike tour begins. Travellers ride pillion with experienced drivers through Hanoi’s hidden lanes and local neighbourhoods. Stops include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Tran Quoc Pagoda by West Lake, and the vibrant Train Street where trains pass close to homes and cafes. Guests then cruise through the French Quarter with its colonial era charm, followed by a ride through the bustling Old Quarter. The tour ends with dinner at a local restaurant, offering the chance to reflect on a day of vibrant culture and lively street life.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Flower Garden Hotel
After breakfast, travellers are collected from their hotel around 8.00 and driven to Halong Bay. On arrival, check in and board the cruise ship for a memorable journey through the emerald waters of the bay. A welcome lunch is served onboard as the boat begins its journey past limestone formations and peaceful coves. The afternoon includes opportunities for kayaking, swimming or cave visits depending on the cruise itinerary. In the evening, enjoy a Vietnamese dinner followed by optional activities such as squid fishing, board games or relaxing on deck under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Peony Cruise
Begin the day with a calming tai chi session on the sundeck, followed by a light breakfast. Continue cruising through Halong Bay with the chance to join more activities such as kayaking or visiting a floating market. After brunch, the cruise returns to port where a private transfer awaits to drive guests to Hanoi Airport. Fly south to Da Nang and upon arrival, travel by road to the riverside town of Hoi An. Check in to the hotel and relax for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: Silkotel Hoi An
Today begins with a transfer to Nguyen Hoang Boat Station to embark on a cruise along the Thu Bon River. Arrive at Tra Nhieu Fishing Village and cycle through scenic rural landscapes. Around 9.30, return to the boat and continue to a local pier where the ride resumes through quiet country roads lined with coconut palms and shrimp farms. Stop at a local fishing family’s home to try riding in a traditional round coracle boat while learning about river life. Continue cycling to Tra Que Village, known for its aromatic herbs and vegetable gardens. Enjoy a hands on farming experience followed by a delicious lunch at a village restaurant. In the afternoon, cycle back to Hoi An and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Silkotel Hoi An
Guests are collected between 7.45 and 8.00 and transferred to Ba Na Hills. Upon arrival, ride the scenic cable car to Marseille Station and visit the famed Golden Bridge, held by two stone hands emerging from the hillside. Explore the colourful gardens of Jardin D’Amour and the peaceful Linh Ung Pagoda, which houses a large statue of the Goddess of Mercy. Lunch is served at a buffet restaurant before spending the afternoon at Fantasy Park with its family friendly attractions and amusement rides. In the late afternoon, return by cable car and travel back to the hotel in Hoi An.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Silkotel Hoi An
This day is completely free to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Options include a walking tour of the Old Town, a visit to the Cham Islands, or simply relaxing on An Bang Beach. Guests can also use the time to visit tailors, explore art galleries or enjoy a leisurely coffee along the Thu Bon River.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Silkotel Hoi An
After breakfast, the morning is free until it is time to check out and transfer to Da Nang International Airport for the departure flight. The tour concludes with fond memories of Vietnam’s cultural richness and natural beauty.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Not included
Flower Garden Hotel is a welcoming boutique retreat nestled in the tranquil Truc Bach area of Hanoi, offering a charming blend of traditional hospitality and contemporary comfort. Located just minutes from the Old Quarter and close to West Lake and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the hotel provides a peaceful base for exploring Hanoi’s cultural highlights while remaining close to the city’s lively energy.
The interiors reflect understated elegance with Vietnamese design touches, polished wooden floors, and soft neutral tones. Each room and suite is thoughtfully furnished with modern conveniences, comfortable bedding, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. Many rooms offer views over Truc Bach Lake or the Red River, adding to the serene atmosphere that defines the property.
Guests can relax with a drink at the panoramic SkyLine Lounge, savour international and Vietnamese cuisine at the in-house restaurant, or enjoy a traditional herbal foot soak after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also features a compact gym and wellness services to enhance guest comfort throughout their stay.
With attentive service, peaceful surroundings, and a convenient location near both Hanoi’s historic core and lakeside charm, Flower Garden Hotel is an inviting choice for travellers seeking calm, culture, and warm local character in the heart of the capital.
Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort is a peaceful riverside haven ideally situated in the heart of Ninh Binh, offering guests a refined sanctuary surrounded by limestone peaks, rice paddies, and tranquil countryside. Just minutes from Tam Coc and Trang An, the resort provides an ideal base for exploring the region’s most captivating natural and cultural wonders while retreating each evening to quiet luxury.
The resort’s interiors are tastefully styled with a fusion of traditional Vietnamese touches and elegant modern design. Each room and villa is thoughtfully appointed with warm timber furnishings, crisp bedding, and large windows or private balconies that open to garden, pool or mountain views. The soothing tones and natural textures reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a serene and restful atmosphere throughout.
Guests can relax by the outdoor pool framed by lush tropical gardens, indulge in a therapeutic spa treatment using local herbs, or enjoy a quiet moment in the open air café overlooking the Ngo Dong River. The on site restaurant offers an inviting dining experience, showcasing regional Vietnamese cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients in a beautifully designed space.
With its scenic setting, sincere hospitality, and harmonious design, Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort offers a perfect escape for travellers seeking comfort, authenticity, and connection to the timeless beauty of Ninh Binh.
Peony Cruise is a refined retreat offering a memorable journey through the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, a peaceful and scenic extension of the famed Halong Bay. Departing from Hai Phong, the cruise takes guests off the well-worn path and into a landscape of limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and secluded sandy coves.
Designed with understated elegance and Vietnamese charm, the ship features beautifully furnished cabins with private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spacious ensuite bathrooms with deep soaking bathtubs. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed to maximise comfort and provide a private, restful space to enjoy panoramic views of the bay.
Guests can enjoy a range of enriching experiences including kayaking, swimming, exploring caves, or visiting floating villages. Onboard facilities include a rooftop sundeck perfect for morning tai chi or sunset drinks, a spa offering traditional treatments, and a relaxed bar and lounge area. The onboard restaurant showcases fresh local ingredients, offering a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisine in a welcoming and scenic setting.
With its calm cruising route, well crafted experiences, and attentive service, Peony Cruise is an ideal way to experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Lan Ha Bay in both comfort and style.
Silkotel Hoi An is a charming boutique retreat ideally positioned just outside the historic heart of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, offering a seamless combination of cultural richness and modern comfort. Within walking distance of the Japanese Covered Bridge, riverside cafes, and vibrant night markets, the hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the town’s UNESCO listed heritage while enjoying a peaceful and elegant atmosphere.
The hotel’s interiors blend classic Vietnamese design with touches of French colonial style, creating a refined yet welcoming space. Each room and suite is thoughtfully furnished with timber floors, soft textiles, and warm lighting, complemented by modern amenities and private balconies overlooking the garden, pool or town rooftops. The attention to detail creates a calm and homely ambience throughout.
Guests can unwind by the serene saltwater pool, book a traditional herbal massage at the full service spa, or relax with a drink in the leafy garden courtyard. Dining is a relaxed yet refined experience, with the restaurant serving both traditional Hoi An specialities and international favourites in an intimate setting.
With sincere hospitality, elegant surroundings, and a location just moments from the cultural treasures of Hoi An, Silkotel Hoi An offers a delightful stay that blends heritage, comfort, and authenticity in perfect harmony.
Price & Availability:
Kindly be advised that all reservations are contingent upon availability and will be officially confirmed within 24 hours of receiving your booking request. Our prices are denominated in Australian dollars, and any currency conversions will be processed at midnight daily. Given the fluctuating nature of exchange rates, prices are subject to change until we receive full payment.
Accommodation Flexibility:
Accommodation for this tour is offered exclusively in 4 star hotels and cruise. Travellers may choose their preferred hotel category in each destination based on comfort level and budget. All hotels have been carefully selected for quality, location, and service. The advertised “from” price is based on 4 star accommodation and low season travel. Surcharges may apply during peak season, public holidays, or high-demand periods. If a selected hotel is unavailable at the time of booking, a comparable property of the same standard and location will be offered.
Day Tours and Excursions:
All included excursions are privately guided unless otherwise noted. Experiences such as the motorbike tours in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, cooking classes in Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta homestay are all conducted by trusted local partners. While most activities include hotel pick-up, some may require travellers to meet at a central location. Optional excursions, including street food tours or countryside cycling, are also available to enhance your itinerary. If you would like to personalise your experience, private upgrade options are available on request and subject to additional cost.
Booking on Request:
Please note that all reservations are processed upon request. A deposit may be required to request the room. Confirmation will be provided within 24 hours of your booking inquiry. If your preferred dates are unavailable, we’ll suggest suitable alternatives or promptly refund your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing:
Please be aware that many hotels in Vietnam operate on dynamic pricing. Due to high demand, particularly during peak seasons, room rates can fluctuate based on occupancy levels. As a result, prices may change from the time of your original quote until payment is received and the booking is confirmed.
We recommend securing your accommodation as early as possible to lock in the quoted rates. If your selected accommodation is no longer available at the time of booking, we will offer alternative options of similar cost, comfort level, and location whenever possible.
Itinerary Order and Availability:
Please note that the order of the itinerary may be subject to change to ensure availability of accommodation and day tour experiences. While we aim to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, slight adjustments may be necessary depending on availability at the time of booking.
The final order of day tours and activities will be confirmed and locked in once your booking is secured. For bookings made outside of peak travel periods and with sufficient lead time, itinerary changes are unlikely. However, during busy seasons or for last-minute bookings, some flexibility may be required to accommodate availability.
Rest assured, any adjustments will be made with the aim of maintaining the quality and overall experience of your journey.
Payment Terms:
A deposit of 30% is required at the time of of booking to for confirmation. Full payment must be settled at least 45 days before the arrival date.
Changes & Cancellation
Cancellations are permitted up to 14 days before departure, with a refund minus a 10% cancellation fee.
Changes are permitted up to 35 days prior to departure.
100% cancellation fees will apply within 14 days of arrival, unless otherwise stated.
Please note: Train and flight tickets included in your itinerary are non-refundable once confirmed. Any amounts paid for these will be in addition to the 10% cancellation fee.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.