Vietnam Unveiled: A Journey from North to South

Hanoi

After settling into your hotel, enjoy a guided tour of Hanoi. A city of contrasts, defies easy categorization, it’s both modern and traditional, chaotic and serene, and always full of surprises. 

Dive right in with a visit to the Temple of Literature. In 1076 Quoc Tu Giam - Vietnam’s first university, also referred to as Van Mieu, was established within a temple to educate Vietnam’s royalty, mandarins and members of the elite, for an incredible 800-years.

Following, visit the Hanoi’s iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex learn about the life and legacy of the nation’s founder. Continue to the ‘house on stilts’ where ‘Bac Ho’ resided from 1958 to 1969. Stroll around the tranquil grounds before completing the circuit at the One Pillar pagoda; built in 1049, the symbol of Hanoi is a unique representation of the city.

Halong Bay

The perfect way to see the UNESCO World Heritage areas of Halong and Lan Ha Bay is to spend a night aboard a charming boat. The mystical scenery, where thousands of limestone islands jut out of the emerald sea, sculpted into wondrous shapes covered in lush flora is truly breathtaking. 

After the welcome onboard and checking into the cabin, lunch will be served whilst cruising. In the afternoon, enjoy your surroundings or partake in activities (depending on the boat’s set itinerary). Towards the end of the afternoon the boat will anchor for the night surrounded by karst formations. 

Halong Bay - Hanoi

Explore more of Hanoi from the iconic train street to Michelin star restaurants or even a bomb shelter tour within the grounds of your hotel - Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and learn about the history and impact the American war had on Vietnam.

Hoi An

Discover the ancient town of Hoi An. Explore former merchant homes, colourful communal halls, narrow lanes lined, traditional houses and the iconic Japanese Bridge. Also visit charming backstreets and tiny alleys to discover lesser known gems.

Meander down a small alley to a traditional style house where the art of healing through martial arts has been practised by a local family for generations. This healing method is the master’s invention, combined between Qigong, Tai Chi, and traditional Vietnamese martial arts called Vo. Have a chance to learn some basic steps under the guidance of the master.

To conclude the cultural exploration, visit a cosy local home to taste a typical dessert before heading back to the hotel.

In your free time experience the magic of the lanterns lighting up the Hoai river.

Ho Chi Minh City

Embark on a historic landmarks and hidden charms city tour. Start with a visit to the iconic Saigon Central Post Office built between 1886 and 1891. Based on the design of French architect Villedieu, it is the creation of a unique vaulted ceiling with wrought iron beams and columns reminiscent of industrial architecture, which is now considered a symbol of Saigon and one of its most famous landmarks. 

Walk along Dong Khoi street, formerly la rue Catinat and pay a visit to Gia Long Palace – Ho Chi Minh City Museum for 
its beautiful architecture and listen to its history through time. Continue to ‘Le Loi Street’ to meet a local artisan who 
specializes in traditional engravings.

As part of the tour, you will have a chance to visit a charmingly restored ‘shophouse’ located in the historic part of the city, which still operates as a trading area. Once there, discover the exquisite flavors of Vietnamese specialty coffee and learn how to prepare a delicious ‘caphe trung’, aka egg coffee.

One of your evenings will be fueled with adrenaline with a Vintage Vespa tour, enjoying the sights of Saigon by night with local street food and hidden livley music venues.