Vietnam from North to South

Explore Hanoi’s yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes by vintage Jeep, taking in landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and Hoan Kiem Lake. Finish the tour with a glimpse into eclectic Hanoi street life at the famed Old Quarter, known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’.

Head to Duong Lam in the northern Red River Delta, and the first village in Vietnam to be recognised by UNESCO for its efforts in preserving local heritage and culture. A 5km (3 mile) bicycle tour along Duong Lam’s narrow alleyways will show you rural life and ancient Vietnamese architecture dating back 400 years, before enjoying a home-hosted lunch. Further stops include the 15th century Mia Pagoda and other temples.

One serving as an imperial capital to the Nguyen Lords, Hue retains its royal charm with splendid emperors’ tombs, ancient pagodas and the Imperial Citadel, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your private guide will explain the events and intrigue of the former royal court, as well as the fierce battles which took place here, on a tour of the magnificent architecture and gardens.

Meet up with your local driver and embark on an incredible ride from Hue to Hoi An, stopping enroute Sampan village, where villagers live on boats in the biggest lagoon of Southeast Asia. Amongst the incredible views of the Hai Van Pass, you’ll also stop at Elephant Springs for a relaxing swim, and Marble Mountain to see stone sculptures.

After a short boat trip across the river from Hoi An, you’ll begin cycling along quiet inland trails. Along the way, learn how wooden river boats are made, as well as the art of weaving the colourful straw “Hoi An” sleeping mats. You’ll also have the option to stop at Tra Que Vegetable Village to observe traditional farming techniques in the organic fields, and even help out yourself if you wish.

Discover the Hoi An countryside with a fun buffalo cart ride, passing rice paddies and vegetable farms at Cam Thanh village along the way. Upon arrival at the wharf, board a local river boat and cruise down Hoi An River before trying your hand at casting the Vietnamese fishing nets. It takes practice, but the fisherman will offer their years of experience and advice.

Get ready for a fascinating ride, as a passenger to your drive guide, by vintage Vespa to discover busy Saigon after dark, together with delightful food tasting in the most authentic local restaurants. Experience Southern Vietnam specialities before continuing to zig-zag through the hustle and bustle of the streets, ending your night at a cosy speakeasy bar to taste some signature cocktails (or mocktails).

Enjoy a half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic landmarks from the unique vantage point of a vintage sidecar motorbike with chauffeur. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, constructed from materials imported from France, before heading to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. A short drive takes you to the former Presidential Palace, followed by a visit to the War Remnants Museum.

The Cu Chi landscape is famous for its clay-like soil, rubber plantations and rice paddies, as well as the production of rice paper, which forms the base of many Vietnamese dishes. Visit the ingenious Cu Chi tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong as hiding spots during combat, as well as living quarters, and housed hospitals, food and weapons caches.