Pho the Culture
Pho the culture
A journey of flavor, history and hidden beauty for the curious.
9 Nights - 10 Days
WELCOME TO VIETNAM
HERE'S YOUR 10 DAY TRIP AT A GLANCE
Day 1 - Welcome to the Flavor Capital
Hanoi Arrival
Arrive in HanoiYour first taste of Vietnam begins here. and Relax at Hotel
Arrival and Hotel Check-in
Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arriving at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), you'll be welcomed by our local team and escorted to your private airport transfer. As you make your way into the heart of Hanoi, take in your first glimpses of Vietnam's bustling streets, vibrant neighborhoods, and everyday life. After checking into your hotel, you'll have a little time to freshen up, settle in, and recharge before we kick off your adventure with tonight's Welcome Feast through Hanoi's legendary Old Quarter. Your journey officially begins the moment you land.
🍜 Welcome Feast Through Hanoi
Your first taste of Vietnam begins tonight.
After checking in and freshening up, we'll head into the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter for an evening designed to do more than fill your stomach—it introduces you to Vietnam one bite at a time.
Together we'll wander the lively streets, where scooters buzz past family-run kitchens, the scent of fresh herbs fills the air, and recipes passed down through generations are served from tiny storefronts and sidewalk stalls. Along the way you'll sample a variety of authentic local favorites while discovering the stories, traditions, and culture behind every dish.
It's also your chance to meet your fellow Bucketlist Baddies, shake off the jet lag, share a few laughs, and settle into the rhythm of Vietnam before the adventure truly begins.
By the time the evening ends, you'll already have a few favorite flavors, a handful of new memories, and the feeling that this trip was worth every mile.
Included Highlights
Curated evening food experience through Hanoi's Old Quarter
Multiple authentic Vietnamese tastings
Local market visit
Cultural insights from a knowledgeable local host
Welcome evening with your fellow travelers
Pan Pacific Hanoi or similar
1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh District, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Luxurious rooms with contemporary Vietnamese decor, rooftop bar offering panoramic city views, and stunning views of West Lake and cityscape.
Day 2 - THE HEART AND HERITAGE OF HANOI
Breakfast at the hotel
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Ba Dinh Square, the largest square in Hanoi, where major cultural and political events, including demonstrations, take place.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
Begin the tour at the Complex of Ho Chi Minh, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh’s house-on-stilts, his fish pond, and the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda.
Hoa Lo Prison
Continue the journey with a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, famously known to American prisoners of war as the Hanoi Hilton.
Temple of Literature
In the afternoon, explore the Temple of Literature, recognized as Vietnam’s first university.
Museum of Ethnology
Proceed to the Museum of Ethnology, one of the largest museums in Vietnam, featuring indoor and outdoor exhibition areas. A visit to this museum provides a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups and their rich cultural heritage.
Water Puppet Show
The evening highlight of the tour will be the Water Puppet Show, a unique traditional Vietnamese art form.
Pace of Travel: Active
Pace of Travel: Active. Steps to Walk: Approx. 10,000-12,000 steps. Facilities: Guided tour, sightseeing transfers, hotel accommodation. Suitable for Age Group: 12 years and above.
Pan Pacific Hanoi or similar
1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh District, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Luxurious rooms with contemporary Vietnamese decor, rooftop bar offering panoramic city views, and stunning views of West Lake and cityscape.
Day 3 - Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Overnight Cruise
Cruise Halong Bay, Explore Luon Cave and Titop Island
Walking Level: Moderate
Walking Level: Moderate. Highlights: Luon Cave, Titop Island, sunset views. Transfers: Hotel to Halong Bay and Tuan Chau Pier.
Breakfast at the hotel
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay
Departure
Hanoi
Destination
Halong Bay
At 7:30 AM, depart from Hanoi for a scenic three-hour drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO-listed Natural World Heritage Site. Along the way, enjoy picturesque views of lush green paddy fields and charming rural villages.
Indochine Cruise or similar
N22, Port 2, Tuan Chau Island, Halong Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long, Vietnam
Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Pier, board your cruise and savor a delicious lunch. As the cruise sets sail, marvel at iconic formations like Dog Head and Swan Islands. Experience the stunning Luon Cave by bamboo boat, where limestone mountains meet jade-green waters. Next, visit Titop Island for an hour of relaxation—swim, sunbathe, or hike to the peak for breathtaking panoramic views. As the sun sets over the bay, return to the cruise for an evening of leisure. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner, followed by drinks at the bar or an exciting squid fishing experience.
Lunch onboard cruise
Savor a delicious lunch onboard as the cruise sets sail.
Luon Cave by bamboo boat
Experience the stunning Luon Cave by bamboo boat, where limestone mountains meet jade-green waters.
Titop Island visit
Visit Titop Island for an hour of relaxation—swim, sunbathe, or hike to the peak for breathtaking panoramic views.
Sunset views and leisure onboard
As the sun sets over the bay, return to the cruise for an evening of leisure.
Seafood dinner onboard
Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner, followed by drinks at the bar or an exciting squid fishing experience.
Note on Cruise Itinerary
Itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions or local administration regulations. The program will be a little varied on your chosen cruise. Cruise serves Vietnamese food that is available in Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian forms.
Pace of Travel: Moderate
Pace of Travel: Moderate. Steps to Walk: Approx. 2,000 steps. Facilities: Cruise amenities, meals onboard, guided excursions. Suitable for Age Group: 10 years and above.
What to Bring
Swimsuit, sunscreen, light jacket, camera.
What to Do
Explore Luon Cave, swim at Titop Island, enjoy sunset views.
What Not to Do
Skip safety briefings onboard.
Tip for You
Try squid fishing at night for a unique experience.
Day 4 - Ha Long – Hanoi – Da Nang – Hoi An
Tai Chi, Scenic Cruise, Flight to Danang
Walking Level: Moderate
Walking Level: Moderate. Highlights: Tai Chi, scenic cruise. Transfers: Cruise to Hanoi and flight to Danang.
Tai Chi demonstration on upper deck
Early risers can join a serene Tai Chi demonstration on the upper deck, followed by a light breakfast.
Light breakfast onboard
Light breakfast served onboard after Tai Chi.
Scenic cruise through islands and islets
Continue cruising through stunning islands and islets, enjoy a delightful brunch while taking in the breathtaking views.
Brunch onboard
Enjoy a delightful brunch onboard while cruising.
Shuttle bus from Halong Bay to Hanoi
Departure
Halong Bay
Destination
Hanoi
Around 10:30–11:00 AM, disembark and begin your return journey to Hanoi by shuttle bus (without a guide).
Transfer to Noi Bai Airport
Departure
Hanoi
Destination
Noi Bai Airport
Upon arrival in Hanoi, transfer to Noi Bai Airport for a flight to Danang.
Noi Bai Airport
Danang Airport
Flight from Hanoi to Danang.
Scenic coastal drive to Hoi An
Departure
Danang Airport
Destination
Hoi An
A warm welcome awaits at Danang Airport, followed by a scenic coastal drive to Hoi An Ancient Town.
Allegro Hoi An . A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa or similar
86 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Hoi An, Vietnam
Check in at your hotel and unwind.
Pace of Travel: Moderate
Pace of Travel: Moderate. Steps to Walk: Approx. 3,000-4,000 steps. Facilities: Cruise, transfer, domestic flight. Suitable for Age Group: All ages.
What to Bring
Comfortable travel attire, light snacks, travel documents.
What to Do
Enjoy Taichi, explore the islands, transfer to Hoi An.
What Not to Do
Avoid heavy meals before the flight.
Tip for You
Keep essentials in a carry-on for easy access during transfers.
Day 5 - Hoi An Walking Tour
Explore Hoi An’s Landmarks and Markets
Walking Level: Leisurely
Walking Level: Leisurely. Highlights: Japanese Bridge, Chinese Assembly Halls.
Hoi An Walking Tour
Begin your day with breakfast before exploring Hoi An’s iconic landmarks. Stroll across the Japanese Bridge, visit the Chinese Assembly Halls, and admire the charm of ancient houses. Enjoy the soulful melodies of Central Vietnam’s folk music at historic clubhouses. Stop by sacred shrines and wander through the riverside market along the Thu Bon River, where Hoi An’s old-world charm continues to inspire. Shop for lanterns, soft silk, and raw silk, or get custom-tailored outfits made in a day. Spend the rest of your day at leisure—exploring the town’s hidden gems or cycling along the Thu Bon River to the serene Cua Dai Beach.
Pace of Travel: Leisurely
Pace of Travel: Leisurely. Steps to Walk: Approx. 8,000-10,000 steps. Facilities: Walking tour, local exploration, hotel amenities. Suitable for Age Group: 12 years and above.
What to Bring
Hat, sunscreen, water bottle, camera
What to Do
Visit the Japanese Bridge, Chinese Assembly Halls, local market
What Not to Do
Avoid wandering alone in isolated areas
Tip for You
Shop for tailor-made clothing and unique souvenirs
Allegro Hoi An . A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa or similar
86 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Hoi An, Vietnam
Centrally located in Hoi An ancient town. Charming blend of Vietnamese architecture and decor. Spacious rooms with modern amenities.
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel.
Day 6 - Hoi An – Hue
Scenic Drive via Hai Van Pass and Hue Heritage
Walking Level: Moderate
Walking Level: Moderate. Highlights: Hai Van Pass, Royal Citadel. Transfers: Hoi An to Hue.
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel.
Scenic drive from Hoi An to Hue via Hai Van Pass
Departure
Hoi An
Destination
Hue
After breakfast and hotel check-out, embark on a scenic drive from Hoi An to Hue via the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, also known as the 'Ocean Cloud Pass.' En route, take in the stunning views of Lang Co Beach before arriving in Hue, Vietnam’s first UNESCO-listed Cultural World Heritage site.
Explore Hue’s Heritage Sites
Explore Hue’s rich heritage, beginning with the Royal Citadel, Forbidden City, and Hue Royal Museum, showcasing the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial past. Conclude the journey with a visit to the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Hue’s spiritual legacy.
Pace of Travel: Moderate
Pace of Travel: Moderate. Steps to Walk: Approx. 6,000-8,000 steps. Facilities: Transfer, hotel amenities. Suitable for Age Group: All ages.
What to Bring
Camera, light clothing, travel pillow for the ride
What to Do
Enjoy Hai Van Pass views, explore Hue’s heritage sites
What Not to Do
Avoid climbing restricted areas or rushing through sites
Tip for You
Take a photo break at Lang Co Beach
Indochine Palace or similar
105A Hung Vuong Street, Hue City, Hue, Vietnam
Award-winning dining with diverse culinary options. Central location in the heart of Hue city. Spacious rooms with luxurious amenities and decor.
Day 7 - Hue to Saigon and City Landmarks
Flight to Saigon, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame
Walking Level: Moderate
Walking Level: Moderate. Highlights: Tomb of King Tu Duc, Reunification Palace. Transfers: Hue to Saigon flight.
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel.
Visit Tomb of King Tu Duc
After breakfast, visit the Tombs of King Tu Duc, one of the best-preserved monuments of the Nguyen Emperors from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Transfer to Hue Airport
Departure
Hotel in Hue
Destination
Hue Airport
Transfer from the hotel to Hue Airport for your midday flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)—Vietnam’s bustling business hub.
Hue Airport
Tan Son Nhat Airport
Midday flight from Hue to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to the city center.
Transfer from Saigon Airport to City Center
Departure
Tan Son Nhat Airport
Destination
Saigon City Center
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to the city center.
Saigon City Tour
In the afternoon, embark on a city tour starting at the Reunification Palace, a historic landmark marking the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, now a museum and official reception hall. Nearby, admire the colonial-era Central Post Office and the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, built between 1877 and 1883. Enjoy a walking tour along Nguyen Hue Street, capturing photos of the Opera House and the Ho Chi Minh City Committee (Outside). Continue to Ben Thanh Market, one of Saigon’s most iconic landmarks, where you can experience local life and shop for handmade goods.
Pace of Travel: Moderate
Pace of Travel: Moderate. Steps to Walk: Approx. 6,000-7,000 steps. Facilities: Transfer, domestic flight. Suitable for Age Group: All ages.
What to Bring
Travel essentials, snacks, and a travel pillow
What to Do
Visit historical landmarks, enjoy a walking tour
What Not to Do
Avoid missing your flight time
Tip for You
Have your camera ready for the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral
Mai House Saigon Hotel or similar
157 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Elegant blend of French and Vietnamese design. Outdoor pool with cityscape views. Central location in bustling District 3.
Day 8 - Saigon - Cu Chi Tunnels - Saigon
Explore Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon Shopping
Walking Level: Active
Walking Level: Active. Highlights: Cu Chi Tunnels, shopping. Transfers: Hotel to sightseeing locations and back.
Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable remnant of the Vietnam War.
Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
Explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a 200 km underground network used during the Vietnam War. Experience crawling through a section to understand wartime life.
Shopping in Saigon
Return to Saigon and enjoy shopping at Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square, An Dong Plaza, Diamond Plaza, and Thuong Xa Tax for a variety of goods and premium brands.
Mai House Saigon Hotel or similar
157 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Elegant blend of French and Vietnamese design. Outdoor pool with cityscape views. Central location in bustling District 3.
Pace of Travel: Active
Pace of Travel: Active. Steps to Walk: Approx. 7,000-9,000 steps. Facilities: Transfer, guided tour, hotel accommodations. Suitable for Age Group: 12+ years.
What to Bring
Flashlight, comfortable shoes, water bottle
What to Do
Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, enjoy shopping at Ben Thanh Market
What Not to Do
Avoid enclosed spaces if claustrophobic
Tip for You
Wear comfortable clothing for crawling in tunnels
Day 9 - Saigon - Mekong Delta - Saigon
Cruise the Mekong River and Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda
Walking Level: Moderate
Walking Level: Moderate. Highlights: Mekong River cruise, Vinh Trang Pagoda. Transfers: Hotel to attractions and back.
Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast before heading on an 8:00 AM SIC tour to My Tho, famous for its coconut farms and traditional factories.
Mekong River Cruise
Cruise the Mekong River, witnessing local life along the banks. Stop at a scenic island, savor fresh tropical fruits, and enjoy traditional Vietnamese folk music.
Canal Boat Ride and Local Workshops
Glide through narrow canals lined with water coconut trees in a small boat, visit local workshops, taste honey tea, and see the making of coconut candy. Stroll through a honeybee farm and take a horse-cart ride through a peaceful village.
Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda
On the way back to Saigon, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, a stunning mix of Chinese, Cambodian, and French architecture.
Mai House Saigon Hotel or similar
157 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Elegant blend of French and Vietnamese design. Outdoor pool with cityscape views. Central location in bustling District 3.
Pace of Travel: Moderate
Pace of Travel: Moderate. Steps to Walk: Approx. 3,000 steps. Facilities: Boat rides, local factory visits, and restroom facilities. Suitable for Age Group: All ages.
What to Bring
Sunglasses, hat, cash for local products
What to Do
Cruise on the Mekong River, enjoy tropical fruits and folk music
What Not to Do
Skip trying local delicacies like coconut candy
Tip for You
Opt for a seat in the shade on boat rides
Day 10 - Saigon Departure
Prepare for Departure and Airport Transfer
Walking Level: Relaxed
Walking Level: Relaxed. Highlights: Departure preparation. Transfers: Hotel to airport.
Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight.
Pace of Travel: Relaxed
Pace of Travel: Relaxed. Steps to Walk: Approx. 1,500 – 2,000 steps. Facilities: Hotel and airport transfers. Suitable for Age Group: All ages.
What to Bring
Travel documents and personal belongings.
What to Do
Check out and prepare for departure.
What Not to Do
Avoid last-minute rush by packing in advance.
Tip for You
Double-check your flight details and ensure timely arrival at the airport.
Hotel Check-out Time
Please note: Hotel check-out time is around 12.00.
Transfer to Airport
Transfer from the hotel to Tan Son Nhat Airport is included.
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Map
1. Pan Pacific Hanoi or similar
1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh District, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam2. Indochine Cruise or similar
N22, Port 2, Tuan Chau Island, Halong Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long, Vietnam3. Allegro Hoi An . A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa or similar
86 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Hoi An, Vietnam4. Indochine Palace or similar
105A Hung Vuong Street, Hue City, Hue, Vietnam5. Mai House Saigon Hotel or similar
157 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam© 2026 Girl Let's Go