Sixteen unhurried days across five regions - Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An and Saigon - a depth of Vietnam few luxury itineraries ever attempt
Ninh Binh, the 'Ha Long Bay on land', discovered by private rowboat through Trang An and Van Long Nature Reserve, far from the cruise crowds
A pre-reserved private dining programme every single evening, from imperial garden houses to a Michelin-starred modern Vietnamese table
The legendary Hai Van Pass driven overland, and My Son sanctuary reached by back-road motorbike with a Thu Bon River cruise return
Iconic keys throughout: a Premier Suite at Capella Hanoi, a Colonial Suite on the Perfume River, a Beachfront Villa at the Nam Hai and Park Hyatt Saigon
"At All Asia Vacation, luxury journey begins with what you see on the itinerary - and is completed by the quiet certainty that everything behind it has already been taken care of."
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and Budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
Day 1-5: Hanoi * Arrival with Fast Track Service * Hanoi Inside Out * Eat & Drink Vietnam with Water Puppet Show * Day at Leisure
Day 5-7: Ninh Binh * Hoa Lu Ancient Capital & Trang An Boat Journey * Ninh Binh Exploration, Van Long Nature Reserve
Day 7-9: Hue * Historical Hue Cycling * The Hai Van Pass en route to Hoi An
Day 9-13: Hoi An * Everything Hoi An Cycling * My Son Temple * Vietnamese Cooking Class
Day 13-16: Ho Chi Minh City * Saigon City Highlights * Cu Chi Tunnels * Evening Scooter Adventure
Itinerary
DAY 1: HANOI
ARRIVAL AND TRANSFER TO HOTEL
Transfer duration: 45 minutes
Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you will be met by an airport representative who will take you through immigration and baggage reclaim. Afterwards, you will be taken through to the arrivals hall where a representative will meet you and you will be privately transferred to your hotel. Fast track service is included.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at a chic contemporary grill and cocktail lounge in Hanoi's French Quarter, a discreet favourite of the city's connoisseurs - chosen for its refined atmosphere and polished service befitting discerning travellers. To be paid for locally.
Day 2: HANOI
HANOI INSIDE OUT
Duration: 6 hours
Hanoi has been the Vietnamese capital since 1010 A.D so there are an endless amount of stories to be regaled from within the city's bustling alleyways and diverse quarters. The must-sees of the Old Quarter are best explored in a cyclo: a bicycle-powered rickshaw driven from behind by a native Hanoian! Drift elegantly through the busy inner streets, taking in the hustle and bustle on all sides. You'll then be chauffeured on the back of a scooter by one of our experienced motorcycle drivers and visit the Temple of Literature, the Parisian boulevards of the French Quarter and, if you're up for it, Ho Chi Minh's Museum complex and the historic Ba Dinh Square. The sightseeing will be complemented by two essential Vietnamese experiences: slurping on a bowl of Noodle Soup (Pho) and sipping on some traditional Vietnamese ice coffee (Cafe Sua Da).
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at a beloved Old Quarter restaurant celebrated for its signature roast duck, a short taxi ride from your hotel - selected as one of Hanoi's most talked-about local kitchens, delivering standout produce in an intimate setting. To be paid for locally.
DAY 3: HANOI
EAT & DRINK VIETNAM WITH WATER PUPPET SHOW
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
We suggest a light breakfast this morning as the morning's focus will be a sampling of Hanoian street food. Enjoy an introduction to Vietnamese food and drink, the basic ingredients, various styles, and of course lots of sampling. Starting out on foot, we'll make our way to fresh markets, and narrow lines where we'll make a couple of stops to experience a few bedrock culinary experiences. We'll stretch out the walk, even peek into the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, pay a visit to a War Veteran's House, stroll along the Hanoi railway and check out the black market. Lunch is a treat of local specialities, the feasting will be complemented by sipping on some traditional Vietnamese iced coffee or egg coffee. To round out our Hanoi adventure we will enjoy a private water puppet performance. Water Puppet Theatre is distinctly Vietnamese, but in recent years has only been available in large theatres. However, there's a local family of artisans who've been perfecting the craft for three generations and has re-designed a floor of their house as a mini theatre where we can have tea and a chat followed by a private 30-minute puppet performance.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at a refined Vietnamese restaurant near the Opera House, led by one of Hanoi's most celebrated chefs and reimagining classic Northern dishes with elegant flair - a walkable distance from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 4: HANOI
DAY AT LEISURE
You have today at leisure to spend as you wish.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at a lively Hanoi institution set in an elegant villa garden, showcasing the full breadth of Vietnam's regional street-food classics under one roof - the definitive introduction to the national repertoire, a short taxi ride from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 5: NINH BINH
LAND TRANSFER - HANOI TO NINH BINH
Duration: 6 hours
Today you'll travel by road from Hanoi to Ninh Binh with a selection of highlights en route.
The first visit of the day is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of the Dinh and Le dynasties dating back to the 11th century. Having been eroded over the millennia, the dilapidated ruins have nearly been absorbed by the spectacular scenery creating a mystical atmosphere that will be sure to titillate your imagination. After lunch in a local restaurant you will continue to nearby Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its outstanding natural beauty and the scenic karst formations which contribute to its reputation as being the "Halong Bay on land." Board a small boat and meander lazily down the peaceful river while passing through a series of caves. While enjoying the sounds of soaring birds overhead and paddling along the crystal-clear waters of the river, jagged limestone hills jutting skyward out of electric green rice paddies will be sure to bring out the photographer in you. After a day of exploring nature, we'll head to the Emeralda Resort for the evening.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION AT EMERALDA RESORT
Dinner reservation at your resort's restaurant. To be paid for locally.
Day 6 - NINH BINH
NINH BINH EXPLORATION
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
This morning we will head to Van Long wharf to embark on a boat trip to Van Long Nature Reserve which is renowned as the largest wetland in Northern Vietnam. A 90-minute rowboat ride will allow us to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of this diversified and unique ecological system and have a chance to see many types of fauna living here. On the way, you can spot many limestone mountains and stunning caves. The water here is so clear that you can see the moss on the bottom. The nice scenery and peaceful atmosphere give us a completely relaxed moment.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION AT EMERALDA RESORT
Dinner reservation at your resort's restaurant. To be paid for locally.
DAY 7: NINH BINH - HANOI - HUE
After breakfast and check-out you will be transferred to Hanoi for your flight from Noi Bai (HAN) to Hue (HUI), Economy Class. Please check-in using the airline confirmation included in your documents.
Upon arrival at Phu Bai Airport, after clearing all customs procedures, please proceed to the exit gate and look for your guide who will be holding a name board. You will be greeted and escorted to your vehicle for your private transfer to your hotel.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at a heritage garden-house restaurant recreating the refined cuisine and courtly setting of Vietnam's imperial capital - an atmospheric introduction to royal Hue gastronomy, a short taxi ride from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 8: HUE
HISTORICAL HUE CYCLING
Duration: 6 hours
Known as the Imperial City, Hue is one of Vietnam's most important historical sites. Hue was the political, cultural and religious centre of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam's last royal family, who were in power from 1802 to 1945. Now inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the various monuments in and around the town and along the winding Perfume River make for an incredible day of exploration. And we'll do it the best way we know how: on bicycles! We will visit the Forbidden Purple City which, similar to the more famous Forbidden City in China, was accessible only to the elites of imperial Vietnam. We will then head outside of town to see the elaborate tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, the Nguyen Dynasty's longest-reigning monarch. The bike ride will be rounded off with a visit to bunker hill, where hidden American war bunkers offer a fascinating glimpse into Hue's importance during the Vietnam War but also offer a spectacular view of the Perfume River and the surrounding floodplain. A day in Hue isn't complete without some savoury Vietnamese cuisine - let's enjoy local-style dumplings for lunch before heading back for some well-deserved R&R.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner at a private riverside garden theatre-restaurant outside the city, where dinner is staged within an artist-built compound on the Perfume River - among Hue's most exclusive evening experiences. Costs have already been paid. Transfer is included (10 minutes from your hotel).
DAY 9: HUE & HOI AN
LAND TRANSFER - HUE TO HOI AN
Duration: 3 hours
Today you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Hoi An. The journey will take around 3 hours along the Hai Van Pass - one of the most scenic drives in Vietnam.
HOI AN - A TREAT FROM ALL ASIA VACATION - RESTAURANT RESERVATION
This evening enjoy dinner, complimentary from Black Tomato, at your resort's signature restaurant of contemporary Vietnamese fine dining overlooking the lotus ponds - an elegant welcome to the coast.
DAY 10: HOI AN
EVERYTHING HOI AN CYCLING
Duration: 6 hours
For early risers, a visit to the Fish and Central markets is like going back in time when life in Hoi An centred around these markets. Watch locals preparing for their day, then set out on a walking exploration of interesting nooks and crannies. Next hop on a bike and head further afield to the countryside where we'll dig into a local gourmet feast after exploring a local organic farm and unique monasteries along the way.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at the signature restaurant of Hoi An's most famous culinary family, credited with elevating the town's heritage street dishes to renowned restaurant standard - a benchmark table in the ancient town, a short taxi ride from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 11: HOI AN
MY SON TEMPLE
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
Fifty kilometres from Hoi An town you'll find the ancient ruins of My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a must-see for any visit to Central Vietnam. Once the heart of the powerful Champa Empire, whose rulers built impressive Hindu temples between the 4th and 13th centuries, My Son Sanctuary is now a mystery-shrouded collection of abandoned temple structures nearly swallowed by the surrounding jungle and nearly destroyed by carpet bombing during the Vietnam War. Mounted on motorbikes driven by professionals we'll take the back roads, which in Vietnam means small concrete paths amongst the rice paddies, villages and local shrines. After taking time to explore My Son, we will head back to the city via motorboat on a cruise down the Thu Bon River. Reflect on the morning's adventure as we observe country life passing by along the river.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at the signature fine-dining room of Hoi An's most storied restaurant group, spotlighting refined central-Vietnamese specialities - a polished setting worthy of the town's gastronomic reputation, a 20-minute taxi ride from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 12: HOI AN
VIETNAMESE COOKING CLASS
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Today, enjoy a Vietnamese Cooking Class. In the morning, we'll pick you up from your hotel and start the day with a market tour where we'll buy all the ingredients for the cooking class. We'll then head to the class to learn the best way to prepare and cook some of the most popular Vietnamese dishes. The payoff for all your hard work, Lunch! This is a shared tour.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at a riverside contemporary-fusion restaurant created by a celebrated Vietnamese-American chef, known for playful, artistic tasting plates with views over the lantern-lit river - a creative counterpoint to the week's classic tables, a 20-minute taxi ride from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 13: HOI AN - DA NANG - SAIGON
Today you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport in good time for your onward flight from Da Nang (DAD) to Tan Son Nhat (SGN), Economy Class. Please check-in using the airline confirmation included in your documents.
Upon arrival at the airport, after clearing all customs procedures, you will be greeted and escorted to your vehicle for your private transfer to your hotel.
SAIGON - RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at one of Saigon's most storied pho houses, a decades-old family institution revered by locals and chefs alike for the city's definitive bowl - authentic southern flavour at its source. Walk-in; a 45-minute taxi from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 14: SAIGON
SAIGON CITY HIGHLIGHTS
Duration: 4 hours
Today we will use a variety of urban transportation to explore this city; we will start with a great history lesson at War Remnants Museum. Next destination, we will visit nearby Vinh Nghiem Pagoda for some insight into spiritual Vietnam and then continue to Giac Lam Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Saigon - the structure of this pagoda is also typical of southern pagodas quite different from what you will have seen in Hanoi and Hoi An. We'll wrap things up by exploring Chinatown, the old spice district and the stimulating Binh Tay Market area before returning to the hotel to refresh for the evening.
RESTAURANT RESERVATION
Dinner reservation at Saigon's Michelin-starred modern Vietnamese restaurant, hidden above an old wet-market street, where street-food icons are reinvented with world-class technique - the city's most coveted table for discerning gourmets, a 45-minute taxi from your hotel. To be paid for locally.
DAY 15: SAIGON
CU CHI TUNNELS
Duration: 5 hours
With your guide take a trip to Cu Chi Tunnels where the Vietcong dug 250km of passageways from the Cambodian border towards Saigon, eventually capturing it. While heavily visited, it's astounding what they constructed and you'll have the opportunity to squeeze through most of these very narrow passageways.
EVENING SCOOTER ADVENTURE
Duration: 4 hours
As the sun sets, we'll take Saigon by storm and experience the amazing energy and movement of the southern capital via a colorful scooter journey. We'll whizz around the historical district taking in all the sights, sounds and smells of a city relaxing after work. Street-side food is a delicious culinary adventure in itself and provides a perfect view of Saigon's motorcycle medley!
DAY 16: VIETNAM - SEE YOU AGAIN!
Today you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport in good time for your onward flight departing Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) on your own arrangements.
Accommodations
NIGHT 1-4
CAPELLA HANOI
Opera-Inspired Design: Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the hotel features Art Nouveau and Deco styles, with 47 rooms decorated in an opera theme, each telling a unique story. Prime Location: Situated on Le Phung Hieu Street, the hotel is just steps from the Hanoi Opera House and near Hoan Kiem Lake, making it convenient for exploring the Old Quarter and other famous attractions. High-Class Cuisine: The hotel boasts Koki Restaurant, one of Hanoi's few highly-rated Japanese restaurants, along with Backstage and Diva's Lounge, offering a diverse and sophisticated culinary experience. Personalized Service: The Capella Culturists team is always ready to assist guests with unique cultural experiences such as cooking classes, backstage tours of the Hanoi Opera House, and other artistic activities. Luxurious amenities: The hotel offers upscale amenities such as the Auriga Spa, an artfully designed indoor swimming pool, a modern gym, and airport shuttle service.
NIGHT 5 - 6
EMERALDA NINH BINH
Located next to Van Long Nature Reserve, approximately 90 km from Hanoi Designed in the style of a Northern Vietnamese village, using natural materials and traditional architecture 172 villa-style rooms with private balconies, overlooking gardens or limestone mountains Swimming pools: Outdoor and indoor year-round La Cochinchine Spa offers relaxation treatments, steam rooms, saunas, and a modern gym 3 restaurants serving Vietnamese, Asian, and international cuisine; with a wine bar and poolside bar Diverse activities: Van Long lagoon tours, cycling, mini golf, karaoke, kids' club, and craft workshops Free buggy service, suitable for families, couples, and groups on vacation
NIGHT 7 - 8
AZERAI LA RESIDENCE, HUE
Azerai La Residence, Hue, stands out with the following features: Unique Art Deco Architecture: Built in the 1930s, originally the residence of the French Governor, the resort boasts a distinctive Art Deco architectural style with flowing lines and characteristic nautical details. Prime Location on the Perfume River: Located at 5 Le Loi Street, the resort occupies a 2.5-hectare area with over 200 meters of riverfront along the Perfume River, offering a peaceful and romantic setting. Diverse Amenities: The resort offers a variety of amenities such as a 40-meter saltwater swimming pool, Le Spa with unique treatments like Tibetan Eight Sounds Therapy, Reiki and Moxibustion, a modern gym, Le Parfum restaurant serving Vietnamese and international cuisine, and Le Gouverneur bar. Professional service: Our friendly and professional staff are always ready to assist guests with services such as airport transfers, organizing tours, and experiencing local culture.
NIGHT 9 - 12
FOUR SEASONS THE NAM HAI HOI AN
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An stands out with the following features: Prime Location: Situated on Ha My Beach, the resort is nestled between three UNESCO WorldHeritage sites: Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, and Hue Imperial City. Architectural Design: Designed by architect Reda Amalou, the resort blends traditional Vietnamese and modern architectural styles, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Diverse Amenities: The resort offers a variety of amenities including an infinity pool, spa, gym, restaurants serving diverse cuisine, and a bar. Professional Service: Friendly and professional staff are always ready to assist guests with services such as airport transfers, tours, and local cultural experiences.
NIGHT 13 - 15
PARK HYATT SAIGON
Experience urban opulence that melds sophistication, artisanal craftsmanship, and contemporary amenities at the exquisite Park Hyatt Saigon. Situated in the heart of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, Park Hyatt Saigon overlooks the regal Opera House in Lam Son Square. Stroll to iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace, or indulge in some retail therapy on Dong Khoi street. This classic hotel in District 1 boasts 245 rooms, including 23 luxurious suites, all recently refurbished to a standard that marries classical French colonial aesthetics with cutting-edge tech, like in-room iPads, Nespresso machines, and sensor lighting. For those who savor extra space and artistry, the suites are a haven. Each comes complete with a separate living area and a curated collection of oil paintings, antiques, lacquerware, and handwoven art by renowned Vietnamese artists. Embark on a culinary journeylike no other at Park Hyatt Saigon. Square One, its signature eatery, fuses authentic Vietnamese and French flavors. Meanwhile, Opera whisks you away to Italy, serving up traditional dishes in a charming trattoria ambiance.
Notes
MADE TO ORDER • Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones. • Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see’s to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about. • With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms. • Whether you’re celebrating one of life’s big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we’re creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
WHAT'S INCLUDED • 24/7 in-destination support from our local team • Accommodation, scheduled experiences and transfers included, unless noted otherwise • Private driver for experiences and transfers • Private local English speaking guides as confirmed in your final itinerary • Vietnam single-entry e-visa • Fast-track service upon international arrival • Meet-and-greet upon arrival at the airport or your accommodation • Daily hotel breakfast, plus meals listed in the itinerary
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED • International airfare, unless arranged through our Air Team • Travel insurance • Tips and gratuities • Meals, unless specified • Personal expenses such as laundry, calls, SIM cards or room service • Early check-in or late check-out, unless specified • Additional activities or sightseeing outside your itinerary • Optional upgrades, enhancements or local camera/video fees • Passport fees, immunizations and local departure taxes, where applicable • Any services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
PRICING TERMS • Aboved quotation based on selected hotels or alternative ones with the similar criteria if the original ones are not available • Signature services & special permission services subject to availablity and costs subject to change without prior notice • Hotel rates quoted are based on standard travel periods and do not include supplements applicable during public holidays, special dates, blackout periods, wholesale closures, or mandatory festive meals.
* USD per person, based on double occupancy. Prices are subject to change. As itineraries are custom-designed for you, the final price will vary and is also based on the month of travel.
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Responsible Luxury
Luxury travel should leave a positive legacy - supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage and protecting the natural environment for generations to come.
