Central Vietnam, Vietnam, Hue
In the very early 19th Century, when the Nguyen Dynasty administered Vietnam from Hue, the Emperor Gia Long commenced construction of a mighty citadel among the rolling hills and mountains of Hue from where he could both live and rule. The resulting Imperial Citadel was modelled on the Forbidden City in Beijing, but unfortunately suffered much damage during the war years. Today the huge ancient complex of buildings used by the Emperor for living and administering his kingdom can still be explored, although some have fallen into ruin, offering visitors an atmospheric trip into Vietnam’s ancient past. Many of the pavilions, bridges, libraries and great halls are now being carefully restored with help from UNESCO, and so some of the site has been rebuilt and restored to its former glory. Marvel at the legends of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors who built the fortress and lived within its moated walls for nearly 150 years and wander among both the restored buildings and dilapidated stone structures that make up the complex.
Continue on to one of the most famous sights in Hue Vietnam- the Thien Mu Temple. An octagonal tower of seven tiers rises majestically over the tranquil Perfume (Huong) River. The tower’s design shows the historical influence of Chinese culture on Vietnam while the seven tiers are dedicated to different Buddhas. Beyond you may see robed monks chanting their mantra or novices carefully tending the bonsai garden. One unusual feature of this temple is the blue Austin Westminster motor car in the grounds – the same car that appeared on television screens around the world when a revered monk set himself on fire in central Saigon, in protest of a repressive Diem regime in the 60’s.
Hue Vietnam has many historical sites and when touring in Hue there are many options as to what to see, but another location of note is Tu Duc’s tomb. Emperor Tu Duc was the 4th emperor of the Nguyen dynasty and reigned from 1847 to 1883. His ancient tomb site is peaceful and tranquil with many lotus flower lakes (which only flower at certain times of the year). However an element of mystery with the tomb is that Tu Duc was actually buried in a secret place to avoid thieves, and as of yet his true burial site remains discovered! Another burial site for one of Vietnam’s 20th century emperors is the tomb of Emeperor Khai Dinh, who was essentially a puppet king for the French in 1916. Built from 1920 to 1931, his tomb is actually a strange mish mash of both Vietnamese and Western styles and is brightly coloured and flamboyant with vibrant mosaics of porcelain pieces. It provides an interesting snapshot into Vietnam in the early 20th century, as a country both maintaining traditional aspects of its culture while also adopting some aspects of French influence too.
What you’ll do
Hanoi
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.
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
Zip along the famous Hoi An to Hue coastline riding pillion on a vintage Vespa bike.
Danang
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.
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
Halong Bay
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!
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
Hanoi
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).
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
Hanoi
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.
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
Halong Bay
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.
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.
