Vietnam in 8 Days: A Private Journey from North to South

Get ready for the trip of a lifetime—this 8-day private odyssey stitches together Vietnam’s most iconic contrasts: from the misty karst seascape of Ha Long Bay and the imperial echoes of Hue, to the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An and the pulsating energy of Saigon. Every day is hand-crafted with intimate experiences, mouth-watering local tables, and just the right balance of discovery and downtime.

Day 1: Hanoi – The Old Quarter’s Soul & a Night of Culture

• Morning: Arrive at Noi Bai Airport; private transfer to your hotel. After a rest, take a guided walking loop through the labyrinthine Old Quarter—visit Hoan Kiem Lake and the red wooden The Huc Bridge, then weave through Hang Bac (silver street) and Hang Gai (silk street) as vendors open their shutters.
• Lunch: Cha Ca La Vong (14 Cha Ca St.)—the legendary turmeric-marinated fish with dill, peanuts, and vermicelli, cooked tableside.
• Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Literature (Vietnam’s first university) and the Hoa Lo Prison museum. Then, hop on a vintage Vespa for a 90-minute guided food tour through hidden alleys—taste egg coffee, banh mi, and grilled pork skewers.
• Dinner: Nha Hang Ngon (18 Phan Boi Chau)—a beautiful colonial villa serving a symphony of regional dishes: bun cha, spring rolls, and green papaya salad.
• Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole (Old Quarter)—or a charming boutique like La Siesta Premium Hang Be.

Day 2: Ha Long Bay – Cruising Among the Karsts

• Morning: Early 8:00 AM private car (2.5 hrs) to Ha Long City. Board your private junk boat (or luxury day-cruiser) at 11:30 AM. Set sail through the emerald waters, passing Dau Go Cave and the famous islets of Fighting Cocks.
• Lunch: Onboard—fresh seafood feast: steamed clams with lemongrass, wok-tried squid, and whole fried snapper with sweet-sour sauce.
• Afternoon: Kayak through the quiet lagoons of Luon Cave, then hike to the top of Ti Top Island for a 360° panorama. Return to the boat for a cooking demo (spring rolls) and a sunset cocktail on the sundeck.
• Dinner: Back on shore—Dinner at Mama’s Kitchen in Ha Long City (local family-run, serving “Cha Muc” – squid cakes – and hotpot).
• Overnight: Drive back to Hanoi (2.5 hrs) and stay at Apricot Hotel (overlooking Hoan Kiem) or take a late flight to Hue (recommended if you want to save time).

Day

What’s Included

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Driver
• Fuel Cost, Parking Fee, Toll Fee
• Accommodation in selected hotels
• Daily breakfast

What’s Not Included

• Entrance fees to attractions
• Tour Guide
• Meal (lunch and dinner)
• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses