Vietnam Art & Culture: From Timeless Hanoi to Hoi An’s Heritage

After breakfast, your private transfer will carry you from the city's hum to the legendary coast of Halong Bay. Enjoy Lunch (as per your dietary preference) as the ship glides out into the bay, a spectacle of thousands of limestone karsts. As the sun begins to set, enjoy sunset cocktails and perhaps explore the onboard art exhibits that reflect the romantic Indochine style. Dinner (Indian/other options) will be served on board.

Enjoy a relaxing morning on the cruise, perhaps with Tai Chi on the sundeck or a final exploration of a quiet cove. After an early brunch (BR), you will disembark. Your private driver will be waiting at the pier for a seamless, direct transfer to Noi Bai Airport (HAN). You'll catch your afternoon flight to Hue, the former imperial capital, a city of poetry and palaces. Upon arrival, you'll be escorted to your hotel, a residence of regal grace.

A full day dedicated to exploring Hue's unique royal aesthetic. Your morning is for the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Imperial Citadel (Hoang Thanh), a sprawling complex of palaces and temples. In the afternoon, we explore two other icons: first, the poetic Tu Duc Tomb, a vast, tranquil royal retreat designed by the emperor himself. Then, we visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, the city's spiritual symbol, overlooking the river. The evening culminates in a fine dining dinner cruise, a magical experience gliding along the Perfume River as the imperial city lights up the night.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Hue, perhaps with a final stroll along the river. Today, we journey south. Your private car will take you on the scenic coastal route, ascending the breathtaking Hai Van Pass ("Ocean Cloud Pass") for stunning panoramic views. Before reaching Hoi An, we’ll stop to explore the Marble Mountains, five limestone hills rising from the coast, home to grottoes, caves, and temples. You'll then arrive in the enchanting, lantern-lit town of Hoi An and check into your hotel.

Your morning is for a walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town. You'll feel the history in the air as you visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the immaculately preserved Tan Ky Old House, and the vibrant Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. This afternoon, we connect with the town's artisanal spirit. You will participate in a traditional tea appreciation ceremony, a mindful and quiet ritual. Following this, we will visit local art studios, meeting with artisans and seeing the modern creative life that thrives within this ancient heritage.

This morning, we take a final journey into history with a drive to the My Son Cham Sanctuary. This UNESCO World Heritage site, a cluster of abandoned Hindu temples nestled in a lush, silent valley, is a powerful testament to the ancient Cham Kingdom. You will return to your resort for a final afternoon of leisure—perhaps a final spa treatment or simply relaxing by the pool. In the late afternoon/evening, your private driver will transfer you to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your departure flight, carrying with you the art and soul of Vietnam.