Xin chào! Welcome to Hanoi. A private transfer from the airport will take you to your hotel in the heart of Hanoi’s buzzing Old Quarter. Celebrate your arrival in style this evening with an iconic pho cocktail, at a modern cocktail bar at the forefront of cocktail culture in Hanoi. Then indulge in lavish welcome dinner at one of the capital’s finest restaurants, which boasts spectacular views over Hoan Kiem Lake. 

Depart the bustling city for a private transfer to the tranquil Mai Chau valley, where a visit to Vun Art, a local NGO, unveils the outstanding recycling silk projects that transform discarded materials into exquisite artworks. Take a guided stroll through the village, delve into the intricate world of handicrafts, witnessing the production of traditional silk and cotton textiles, as well as the age-old process of rice wine making. As the day unfolds, venture deeper into the valley, embracing the natural rhythm of local life. Indulge in a delectable dinner, followed by an enchanting folk-dance performance that celebrates the region's rich cultural heritage. Seize the opportunity to partake in the time-honored tradition of sipping Can schnapps, a local specialty, savored communally from a jar with straws – an authentic experience that will immerse you in the heart of Thai culture.

Check out the Mai Chau Valley’s local food & handicrafts market before returning to Hanoi for a fun afternoon cyclo tour, taking in sights such as Ngoc Son Temple, Dong Xuan Market, the Opera House, and St. Joseph's Cathedral. Later, discuss the impact of the American war over a delicious dinner with a Vietnamese former fighter pilot, and PBS journalist Nguyen Qui Duc, and hear about their experiences of the war. 

Work up an appetite for breakfast this morning with a walk around picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, a prime destination for early-morning joggers and tai chi practitioners. If you’re feeling a little grumpy or groggy from the jet lag, you might benefit from partaking in some lakeside laughter yoga. Then stop at one of our favorite local cafes for a pho and a traditional egg coffee - a sweet, frothy, and distinctly Hanoian beverage made of egg yolk and condensed milk. A short flight will then transport you to the old imperial capital of Huế, one of Asia’s most captivating cities. Devour renowned Vietnamese fusion cuisine for dinner tonight, in the delightful countryside setting of your hotel. 

Step back in time as you embark on a captivating journey to the Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City, once reserved solely for the emperor and his concubines. Gaze in wonder at the crumbling palaces that whisper tales of centuries past, their intricate carvings unveiling a fascinating narrative etched in stone. Next, Hue's iconic royal tombs beckon, adorned with intricate artistry that pays homage to the Nguyen Dynasty's longest-reigning monarch, Tu Duc. Immerse yourself in the ancient traditions of Buddhism at the Thien Mu Pagoda, a revered monastery dating back to 1601. As the day wanes, indulge in a sunset dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, where the art of tea unfolds amidst the enchanting scenery of Hue. Savor this tranquil moment before venturing to the Ben Xuan Residence, where a captivating performance by extraordinary musicians awaits, accompanied by a truly mouthwatering meal that epitomizes the city's culinary finesse.

Venture southward through verdant coastal rice paddies, pausing at the picturesque Lang Co Beach before traversing the dramatic Hai Van Pass. This winding stretch of highway offers stunning vistas, inviting you to capture the breathtaking landscapes that unfold before you. Stop for a photo op at the spectacular Marble Mountains, before arriving in the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, a former international trading hub that has masterfully preserved its centuries-old allure. Embark on a guided stroll through the Old Town with Mr Pham Thuc Hong a true local expert who has researched and written dozens of books and articles on Hoi An, it’s architecture and history. Then immerse yourself in the art of lantern-making, crafting your own unique creation that will forever illuminate memories of this enchanting destination. As the day draws to a close, savor the flavors of Hoi An's rich culinary heritage, a testament to its storied past as a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

Tour the vibrant local market at sunrise, and handpick the freshest ingredients, that you’ll later transform into a series of Vietnamese culinary delights during your private cooking class. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the river to the cookery school where, under the guidance of a skilled local chef, you’ll unlock the secrets behind beloved Vietnamese dishes, such as pho, and gorge yourself on your sweet and spicy creations over lunch. Enjoy some leisure time this afternoon before meeting up with your group for a delectable dinner along Hoi An’s pretty waterfront, treating your palate to a tantalizing array of out of this world street eats.

It’s time to leave the tranquility of Hoi An behind as you journey south to the modern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Once known as Saigon, this up-and-coming city is famous for the eight million scooters that weave through its busy streets every day, as well as its excellent street food pedigree. Take an unforgettable vintage Vespa tour of the city streets before getting down to some serious street food snacking with the help of your guide. 

This morning you’ll visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a former Viet Cong stronghold that offers a profound insight into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during the American War. Head back to the city for one last dose of Vietnamese street food before making your way to one of Ho Chi Minh City’s best rooftop bars for a farewell toast overlooking the bustling streets below. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a much-loved local restaurant, where you can toast to the wonderful adventure you have just embarked upon.

Your Vietnam foodie adventure comes to an end today. If you plan to extend your stay in Vietnam, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Vietnam for itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!