Zip along the famous Hoi An to Hue coastline riding pillion on a vintage Vespa bike.
Travel beyond the more famous sites of Hue and discover a slower and more traditional way of life.
Central Vietnam, Vietnam, Hue
Art of Slow Living in Hue
Hue was the capital city of Vietnam during the Nguyen dynasty (1802 – 1945), during which many beautiful garden houses were constructed. Often tucked away down unassuming side streets and landscaped yet wild gardens, the traditionally built houses were once the homes of officials, royal associates, poets, and writers, and many of them are still owned by their descendants today.
Each house is unique in design, and each has its own story to tell, and there’s nobody better to tell it than the residents themselves. As you amble through the town (or cycle if you prefer), you’ll be welcomed into homes to drink tea and chat with the owners about the history of the houses, the area, and the current occupants. You’ll also learn how some traditional crafts and industries are being kept alive here, with the chance to try your hand at some yourself.
Hue is a remarkable place, both aesthetically and historically, and we’d recommend a visit to anyone who likes the sound of ‘slow living’. It’s possible to experience this side of the city in an afternoon, but we recommend it in conjunction with an overnight homestay in one of the Garden Houses.
What you’ll do
- Explore Hue’s historic garden houses from the Nguyen dynasty era (1802–1945)
- Meet descendants of royal associates, poets, and writers who still live there
- Enjoy tea and conversation while learning about the area’s history and traditions
- Try your hand at traditional crafts that are still practised locally
- Ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and ‘slow living’ experiences
Hue on the map
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in Vietnam
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Hanoi
A Different Side of Vietnam
Vietnam’s long narrow geography lends itself to a fairly obvious and well-trodden travel route. This holiday weaves away from that and offers second-time visitors or those who like something different, the chance to discover Vietnam in a new way.
Highlights
Hidden street tours
Discover “Saigon” and Hanoi with insiders tours of the backstreets and traditional markets of the less-explored districts.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Kayak, cycle and trek around incredible Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to the world’s largest caves
Vintage Vespa experience
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Danang
Vietnam Train Odyssey
If you can spare a little extra time, then there is no better way to explore Vietnam than by train. Follow the route of the ‘Reunification Express’ from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City via paddy fields, mountains and ancient ports.
As well as taking in the scenery whilst on board, you’ll have plenty of time to see the sites with our unique guided tours in each place you visit.
Highlights
Scenic journeys
Watch the lush and varied scenery unfold from your vantage point on the train
Halong
Set sail on picturesque Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk boat cruise
City highlights
Explore the sights of Hanoi and Saigon, the highlights and some hidden gems
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Halong Bay
Vietnam with a Culinary Twist
Fresh, exotic and exciting: Vietnamese food, influenced by myriad culinary traditions, is one of the world’s best cuisines. It also provides an excellent historical narrative.
Experience the best of this country without missing a beat.
Sample the sublime local street-food of Hanoi and Saigon, shop for fresh ingredients and learn to cook in Hoi An. Once you’ve learnt to crack the street-food codes, you might be brave enough to explore alone!
Highlights
Street food tour
Pull up a stool with the locals and sample popular street food snacks in Hanoi
Lunch in Hue
Drift down the Perfume River in Hue and enjoy a hosted lunch in a traditional Garden House
Cooking class
Visit a local market to buy the freshest ingredients before trying your hand at cooking some classic Vietnamese dishes
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Hanoi
Countryside, Coast & Caves
In the northern part of Vietnam, go further than the famous Halong Bay and explore the beautiful World Heritage Sites of Trang An Ecosystem and Phong Nga National Park. Discover Vietnamese food, culture and history in Hanoi before veering off into the countryside by train to Trang An (in the Ninh Binh area) and Phong Nga – Ke Bang National Park.
Phong Nga is home to the world’s largest cave and limestone region. Choose between an overnight camping expedition exploring several caves or day treks, kayaks or cycle tours.
Spend the last few days of the holiday at the beach near Hoi An, where you’ll have time to combine pure relaxation with a taster of the beautiful local town (outside of peak hours).
Highlights
Street food tour
Pull up a stool with the locals and sample popular street food snacks in Hanoi
Phong Nga - Ke Bang National Park
Explore underground rivers and the remarkable geology of Phong Nga – Ka Bang National Park
Scenic train journeys
Weave through the countryside aboard the Reunification Express
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Hanoi
Luxury, Boutique & Beach
Experience the highlights of Vietnam in a unique way combined with luxury and boutique accommodation. Your expert private guides and drivers will bring the captivating country to life, and there will be plenty of time to relax.
Highlights
Food experience
Savour authentic street food on a guided tour through Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter.
Vietage Train
Ride the scenic Vietage train, with some seriously smooth travel washed down with breathtaking coastal views.
Zannier Bai San Ho
Discover pristine beaches at Zannier Bai San Ho, with watersports and local village to explore
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Halong Bay
Ultimate Classic Vietnam
A journey through Vietnam immersing yourself in the rich culture, enjoying breathtaking landscapes, and staying in some of the most luxurious hotels in Asia. What’s not to like?
The itinerary is designed to show you a side of Vietnam that others may miss without compromising on quality. Your cruise takes you further than Halong Long to explore Lan Ha Bay, which is a longer and steadier routing but oh, so much more fun and peaceful. Local guides are on hand to take you deep into the market to enjoy Hanoi’s vibrant street food. And much more.
The hotels are of unbelievable quality. Have a look for yourself, and we can, of course, adapt them to suit your own preferences—there are plenty of fantastic options.
Highlights
Lan Ha Bay
Cruise the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay on a traditional junk boat as the sun sets behind limestone peaks.
Amanoi
Unwind at Amanoi, nestled within a national park, with yoga, watersports, and panoramic sunrise treks.
Hue
Explore Hue’s historic treasures, from imperial tombs to the tranquil Perfume River.
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