Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide and driver at the pickup lobby. You’ll then enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, passing over the Red River, where you can catch a glimpse of the city’s unique architecture and its famously bustling traffic.

9:00 AM: Get pick up by tour guide to the Temple of Literature which was built under the Ly dynasty in 11th century for worshipping Confucius and teaching Royal children. Enjoy a walk in the garden to the city’s symbol Khue Van Cac. You will then visit the World Heritage "stone steles” which shows the name of outstanding students. Continue to explore the Quoc Tu Giam which is considered as the first national university of Vietnam.

Continue to Hoa Lo prison museum. Spend an hour to learn about the Vietnamese War. Hoa Lo was one of the largest prisons in Indochina, built by the French colonists in 1896 for Vietnamese political prisoners. Later, it was better known as the Hanoi Hilton since it imprisoned American pilots.

In the afternoon, you visit the French Quarter – it is a “little Paris” in Hanoi with tree-lined boulevards, government head offices and a big square. Visit (outside) Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum before having a leisurely walk in the botanical gardens to visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts where he used to live and work. Towards the unique One – pillar pagoda which is one of the city’s symbols. It takes us from 1 to 2 hours to explore this complex, depending on the number of traveler.

Hanoi Train Street is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant alley in the heart of Hanoi, where a railway track runs just inches away from residential homes. It offers a fascinating glimpse into local life combined with the excitement of trains passing up close. If you're lucky, you might witness a train passing right in front of you—a thrilling and unforgettable experience. While you're there, relax with a local drink at one of the cozy trackside cafes and soak in the unique atmosphere.

Exploring the Hanoi Old Quarter which was built in the 15th century as a trading center in the capital city with 36 streets of different products. Despite the changes, the Old Quarter is always considered a live city museum. The unique tube houses, small alleys, temples, open door markets and street vendor foods come together in a beautiful harmony. Discovering the town by walking is the best way to stimulate all your senses.      

Finally, enjoying the water puppet shows that is the unique performances, first appeared in the 11th century. In these shows, the daily life, culture and belief of Vietnamese people are described by puppets on water. The show usually integrates a traditional music performance as well.

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter. We'll then begin a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. As we traverse the Red River Delta, feel free to make stops along the way to capture photos of the rural landscapes. 

Take a journey back in time to uncover an ancient temple that traces its roots to the 12th century. Nestled in the midst of a serene countryside village, a world away from the crowds of mass tourism, this temple pays homage to Zen Master Nguyen Minh Khong. Not only was he the head monk during the Ly dynasty (1009-1225), but he also pioneered treatment methods using Vietnamese herbs and acupuncture. The temple stands as a testament to history, preserving ancient architectural styles and housing a treasure trove of precious relics.

Take a sampan boat trip along the stream and amidst the limestone mountains to uncover the beauty of Van Long Nature Reserve. Recognized as one of the country's largest reserves and designated as a Ramsar Site, it offers a unique experience. If you're fortunate, you might catch sight of white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs.

Visit an embroidery village and participate in an embroidery course guided by the local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam. She will proudly explain the techniques of her traditional craft, providing you with a valuable opportunity to practice on fabric like a true craftsman.  

You can choose to embark on a 10 km bike ride (one way) or a 20 km ride (round trip) along the dyke, offering stunning views of rice fields, a river, and limestone mountains. Take optional stops along the way for picturesque photos and interactions with locals. Continue your exploration by visiting Thung La Temple, which dates back to the 11th century. Don't miss the opportunity to experience traditional musical instruments that are integral to the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people.

Head from Ninh Binh to Hanoi and soak in the scenic beauty as you traverse the Red River Delta. Take advantage of plenty of photo opportunities amidst the lush rice fields and tranquil countryside along the way.

8:00 – 8:30 AM: If transport is included, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. From there, we’ll begin our journey to Halong City, enjoying a scenic drive through the picturesque Red River Delta. The trip takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with a convenient stop along the way for restrooms if needed.

11:00 – 11:30: Arrive at Lot 32 - Tuan Chau Port, where you'll check in at the waiting lounge. Enjoy a warm welcome with a cup of special tea as you settle in.

11:45 – 12:00: Board a speedboat for your transfer to Orchid Cruises. Once aboard, you'll be greeted with welcome drinks before gathering in the restaurant for a cruise briefing and essential safety instructions.

12:45 – 13:00: Enjoy a delicious lunch as we cruise through the stunning Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

15:00 – 15:30: Prepare to be amazed as we head to the Dark and Bright Cave - a must-see destination! Kayaking through these caves offers an intimate view of Ha Long Bay's breathtaking beauty.   *Alternatively, discover Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Islets), where serene waters and picturesque landscapes provide the perfect setting for kayaking or relaxing on a sandy shore. If the weather is favorable, take a refreshing swim in the emerald-green waters.*

17:00 – 17:30: Orchid Cruises will anchor for an overnight stay in Tra Bau, Lan Ha Bay. Immerse yourself in the serene landscape and enjoy the natural beauty of the bay.

18:00 – 18:15: Join us for a cooking demonstration on board and take advantage of our Happy Hour (buy one, get one free) at the bar while soaking in the stunning sunset views over the bay.  

Optional: For those interested, a massage service is available—please book directly with our Cruise Manager.

19:15 – 19:30: Indulge in a fusion dinner crafted from the freshest ingredients, served in a sophisticated setting adorned with elegant French neoclassical style and traditional oriental touches.

21:00 – 21:30: As night falls, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the bay under the stars. Our bar on the sundeck and the restaurant are ready to welcome you. Try your luck at squid fishing, enjoy a movie in the restaurant, or challenge yourself with chess and card games.

23:00: Settle in for an overnight stay on board, surrounded by the enchanting atmosphere of the bay.

06:00 – 06:30: Start your day early aboard Orchid Cruises with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck. 

06:45 - 07:00: Savor your breakfast at the restaurant as we cruise along the scenic waters.

07:45 - 08:00: Transfer to our day boat for a visit to Viet Hai village. Experience a bicycle ride along charming village paths that wind through lush rainforests and dark tunnels. Take in the breathtaking scenery of rice fields along the way. We’ll stop at the village to relax and explore an ancient local house constructed from straw, mud, and bamboo, giving you a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals in this picturesque valley.

(An optional electric car service is available at an extra cost.)

Afterward, return to the day boat to explore Lan Ha Bay, where lunch will be served.

13:30 - 14:00: Visit Ba Men Temple, a serene spot with beautiful surroundings that makes it ideal for scenic kayaking or relaxing on a sandy beach.

16:00 - 16:30: Return to Orchid Cruises, where guests can join a cooking class, take a swim in a pristine area, or enjoy Happy Hour (buy one, get one free) at the bar while watching a magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin.

19:00 – 19:30: Indulge in a Fusion Dinner featuring delicious local cuisine, prepared and served by our wonderful onboard catering staff. Enjoy this delightful meal in an intimate, romantic setting.

21:00 – 21:30: Experience the enchanting landscape of the bay at night from the top deck. Relax with drinks from the bar, try your hand at night squid fishing, or catch a movie in the restaurant. Overnight on board.

*(Massage services are available; please book directly with the Cruise Manager and refer to the massage menu.)

06:00 – 06:30: Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck, where you can soak in the tranquil beauty of the bay. If you're eager to catch the dawn, rise early between 5:30 and 6:00, depending on the season, and feel free to consult our sailors for guidance.

06:45 - 07:00: Join us for breakfast at the restaurant as we continue our scenic cruise.

07:15 – 07:30: We’ll journey by bus to Trung Trang Cave, nestled in the heart of Cat Ba National Park, surrounded by the lush Kim Giao forest. Located 15 kilometers northwest of Cat Ba Town, Trung Trang Cave stretches 300 meters through the mountain, showcasing a captivating beauty shaped by millions of years of geological processes. Inside, you’ll find an array of uniquely shaped stalactites that spark the imagination and leave visitors in awe.

09:45 – 10:00: Welcome back aboard Orchid Cruises as we prepare for check-out. Treat yourself to a delightful brunch at our restaurant.

11:00 – 11:30: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, share your best wishes, and conclude your unforgettable cruise with us.

Our driver will greet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfer you to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, with a restroom stop available along the way (optional).

Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Noi Bai Airport. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes, whether you're heading to the international or domestic terminal, depending on your needs.

Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Hoi An, a journey of approximately 1 hour. Once you reach your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

Hoi An used to be one of the most typical South-East Asian trading ports dating from the 15th to the 19th century and the Old Town is still well-preserved. The exchanged cultures is displayed on many historic buildings, religion, daily business and enriched by the authentic lifestyle of local inhabitants.

Firstly, visit the Hoi An city’s symbol - the Chua Cau or the Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 17th century to allow the Japanese quarter to be accessible from the Chinese neighborhoods. The bridge’s original style has been carefully preserved for the last 400 years.

Continue visit a special ancient house. Located in the center of Hoian, 18th century built, Phung Hung house is the evidence of culture exchanged in the splendid time of the town and has been used as home for more than eight generations. Meet local guide, also family member, follow she to discover the values of the house.

After visit, enjoy a walk to Hoian museum of history and culture. The display of the Sa Huynh Culture (before the 2nd centuries AD), Champa culture (the 2nd-15th centuries AD) and Dai Viet, Dai Nam Culture (the 16th-19th centuries) artifacts, with some huge bells, historic photos, old scales and weights alongside plenty of ceramics. It is enriched by the interesting things about the oldest street, the folk meaning and conception of the “eyes” on the doors of ancient houses and of the spiral carved patterns “De leaf” “Yin and Yang”, and many others.

Finally, you have an excursion to Hoian center market where is the best place to see the local daily life. Situated on the riverside, the large market is packed with stalls where you easily find a huge variety of food at extremely cheap prices. There is also a great fresh vegetable, meat and fish market which is worth visiting.

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hoi An. From there, we’ll head to Hue, passing through Da Nang. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, taking you along some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in central Vietnam, including My Khe Beach, fishing villages, the Hai Van Pass, and Lang Co Lagoon. Upon arrival in Hue, you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

Visit the most important sites in city - Hue Citadel, the only vestige symbol for what was once the imperial city of Vietnam. It is inspired by the fortification of Vauban. The city is composed of three parts: Kinh Thanh (the Capital city), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial city) and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). The most beautiful sites in Hue are concentrated in this area including the flag tower, the South gate, the palace of supreme Harmony, the Dynasty temple area and the settlement area.

8:00 AM: Transfer from hotel to visit the Emperor Minh Mang's tomb, an architectural masterpiece that harmoniously highlights the nature and imperial religious works. The tomb was planned during Minh Mang’s reign (1820–40) but built by his successor, Thieu Tri with the effort of ten thousand workers and artisans.

Continue to take a boat along Huong River (or Perfume River) to Thuy Bieu Village, admire the picturesque landscapes on both sides. After 1 hour, we arrive to Thuy Bieu, well-known for its divine grapefruit trees where you can take a bike around the village under the shade of the grapefruit trees and enjoy their pleasant perfume aroma and the harvested straw. The peaceful atmosphere is in every corner of the village. Then, visit a temple dedicated to the village protector, a traditional garden house built several centuries ago. This is a wonderful opportunity to stop for great photos and interact with the villagers working in the gardens and vegetable fields which should not be missed.

Lunch is served in the village. In the afternoon, drive to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Hue, dating back to 1601. This is the spiritual highlight of the city and well known for its majestic octagon tower and beautiful view of the Perfume River.  

Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hue City and take you to Phu Bai Airport. The drive takes approximately 45-60 minutes, whether you're heading to the international or domestic terminal, depending on your needs.

Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local driver will greet you at the pickup area and transfer you to your hotel in the city center (District 1). The drive takes approximately 60 minutes.

After arriving at the hotel, you'll check in* and have the rest of the day free to relax or explore at your leisure.

8:00 AM: Leave from your hotel to visit the most striking place in the history of the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Cu Chi is a real underground city made up of a large network of tunnels covering an area of over 250km long where the Viet Cong conducted the war of resistance against American troops. All of the tunnels were dug over a period of twenty years using only pickaxes and shovels. The tour includes special entering some part of tunnels. 

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport. The drive typically takes 45 to 60 minutes, whether you're heading to the international or domestic terminal.

Please note that for domestic flights, you should arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights, at least 3 hours in advance. During rush hours (7:00–8:30 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM), the drive from downtown Ho Chi Minh City to Tan Son Nhat Airport can take more time. Plan accordingly to ensure a stress-free journey.