Uncover Vietnam's breathtaking scenery and captivating cities on this exciting teen-themed family holiday. Go trekking and cycling in the Mai Chau Valley and cook lunch with a local family. Explore Ninh Binh's beautiful Tam Coc valley and Hue's Imperial City, cruise around heavenly Halong Bay, farm the land in Hoi An and more. This tour welcomes families with teens and pre-teens aged 10 years and above.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Hanoi
Sunday. Welcome to Hanoi and the start of your holiday. Upon arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you and your family to explore Vietnam's enchanting capital. At 6pm there will be a Welcome Meeting in the hotel lobby.
Overnight: Hanoi
Mai Chau
Hanoi - Mai Chau. Early this morning we bid farewell to Hanoi and drive west through beautiful scenery to reach the picturesque valley of Mai Chau. En route we stop to explore the unique Muong Culture Museum which is spread over 5 hectares of land. Here we will learn all about the Muong ethnic minority people. We'll see women in traditional dress and authentic Muong stilt houses, as well as a collection of fascinating artefacts.
Arriving at our lodge around midday we enjoy a tasty lunch of local cuisine. This afternoon we hop on bicycles for a leisurely ride in the countryside, exploring the area and meeting the locals. Spend the evening at leisure, with dinner served at the lodge.
Overnight: Mai Chau | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mai Hich village
Today we enjoy a leisurely 7km hike through the Mai Chau Valley to Mai Hich village, passing rice fields and hamlets, and meeting locals along the way. Mai Hich is surrounded by mountains and home to the Thai and Muong ethnic populations. Here we join a local family and help to cook a tasty lunch of local ethnic cuisine together.
After lunch we hop on the back of mopeds and ride pillion with friendly local guides who take us on a fun two-wheeled adventure, travelling along the quiet rural back roads and through forest to visit nearby local villages.
Overnight: Mai Chau | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ninh Binh
Mai Chau - Ninh Binh. This morning we drive to the beautiful Ninh Binh region, which is often referred to as an inland Halong Bay. We arrive in a remote corner of the region called Mount Tuong where we have lunch before enjoying a scenic sampan boat ride to Galaxy Cave
After lunch we climb the steps up Ngoa Long Mountain for an incredible panoramic view over Ninh Binh's rice fields, karst mountains and Tam Coc, the most beautiful valley in the region, renowned for its towering limestone peaks. On our way back to Ninh Binh we stop to explore Mua Cave which lies at the foot of Mua mountain which has a striking stone dragon carved into its staircase.
Overnight: Ninh Binh | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Halong Bay Junk Cruise
Ninh Binh – Halong Bay. After breakfast we bid farewell to Ninh Binh and drive to spectacular Halong Bay, where karst island peaks dappled with lush vegetation rise from the pristine emerald coloured waters. We explore this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site on an overnight junk boat cruise.
Junk boats are based on a traditional design, combining oriental style with modern luxury. On board you can soak up the panoramic views from the sundeck as the boat gently plies its course. This afternoon we visit Trinh Nu Cave, one of the finest caves in Halong Bay, covering an area of 2,000m² with a stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites. There's also the opportunity to go kayaking and enjoy a refreshing swim.
Later this evening back on board, watch a Vietnamese cooking demonstration held on the sundeck before settling down for a sumptuous seafood dinner.
Overnight: Halong Bay | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hanoi cyclo ride
Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Early birds can start the day with a relaxing Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditional massage - the perfect way to start the day. Before heading back to port this morning, we explore the beautiful Sung Sot cave (Surprise Grotto), which is 10,000m² and consists of two spectacular chambers which are spacious enough to hold thousands of people.
Arriving back to Hanoi mid-afternoon we explore the maze of streets known as the ‘36 streets of the old quarter’ aboard a cyclo (rickshaw). The narrow lanes are each named after the numerous guilds that once set up shop on a particular street from silk tailors to traditional medicine shops. On our tour we will have a chance to sample the exotic fruits, sizzling noodle dishes and delightfully sticky snacks being offers by the pavement vendors.
Later this evening there's a chance to freshen up before boarding the train (4 berth sleeper cabin, basic standard) on the ‘Reunification Express’ railway line to Hue. An option to fly from Hanoi to Hue is also available.
Overnight: Sleeper train | Breakfast
Imperial Hue
This morning we have a breakfast box on the train before arriving into Hue where we set out on a guided sightseeing tour of this fascinating imperial city. Once the capital of the Nguyen emperors, the last ruling family of Vietnam, UNESCO-listed Hue is full of palaces, pagodas and temples. Two of the main highlights here are the Thien Mu Pagoda, home to the oldest monastery in the city, and the Citadel. Within the walls of the latter is the Imperial Purple Palace – an exact replica of the famed Forbidden City in Beijing, with impressive ramparts, formal moats and imperial palaces, some of which lay in ruin. After our tour we enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Perfume River and on to our hotel.
Overnight: Hue | Breakfast, Lunch
Enchanting Hoi An
Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Today we will travel on to the laidback riverside town of Hoi An, travelling along the picturesque Hai Van Pass – nicknamed the Road of the Ocean Clouds, with beaches on one side and verdant hills on the other. We will break up our journey with a stop at China Beach, an expansive sandy beach made famous by the film ‘Apocalypse Now’. Here there will be the chance to opt for a swim in its warm waters before continuing our journey south along the coast.
Radiating age-old charm with grand colonial architecture, Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most delightful destinations. The Old Town, recognised as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an immaculately preserved example of an Asian trading port with covered bridges, pagodas, temples and merchant houses. The town's beguiling riverside setting adds to the overall picturesque appeal of Hoi An with women in conical hats rowing their wooden vessels downstream and the glow of red lanterns in the evenings reflected on the water's iridescent surface. A short walking tour will take us back to a bygone era, with a visit to the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Hall, a 200-year-old Tam Ky house, former merchants’ homes and the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Cam Thanh Farm
For a taste of rural life today, we take a bicycle ride through the countryside to Cam Thanh farm (we can arrange alternative transportation at no extra cost for those who don't wish to cycle). We cycle through picturesque villages where life moves at a slower pace, passing rice paddies, local orchards and seeing the locals at work in the fields. At the organic farm in Cam Thanh we meet the local farmers and learn all about their community-based project. Then we enjoy a fun hands-on farming experience, helping to tend the fields, applying organic manure, making organic pesticides and cultivating the soil for planting and watering. After farming the fields we return to the farmer's house and use the produce harvested from the organic vegetable garden to help to cook a tasty Vietnamese lunch for ourselves.
In the afternoon, we hop on our bicycles again for a short ride to a bamboo workshop where we join a talented local craftsman to make our own bamboo products under his expert guidance. After the workshop we drive back to Hoi An and spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast, Lunch
Hoi An - at leisure
Today is free for you to spend at leisure in Hoi An. You may wish to head to the beach for a day of relaxation or shop until you drop - Hoi An is famous for its skilled artisans, with wonderful craft shops, art galleries and some of Asia's best bespoke tailors.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Ho Chi Minh City
Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City. An early morning flight will take us to Ho Chi Minh City today. Once called the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, old and new collide in this modern city as gleaming sky scrapers, glamorous restaurants and designer shops stand side-by-side with colonial era landmarks and post-war remnants. Here we will enjoy a walking tour of the city taking in some of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmarks, including the impressive red-brick Neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, the central Post Office and the sobering War Remnants Museum.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast
Ho Chi Minh City
Thursday. Our tour ends after breakfast today and there's an included transfer to the airport. If you have time, consider bargaining for goods at Ben Thanh Market or visiting the grand Independence Palace.
Alternatively you can extend their stay and opt to join us on a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where there will be the chance to explore a vast network of underground tunnels and hideouts that were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Learn about booby traps, climb through trap doors, or even test your skills with an AK 47 at the firing range!
Breakfast
Cu Chi Tunnels - go underground!
Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels - a vast underground network of tunnels and hideouts used by Viet Cong guerrilla fighters during the 1960’s. Often lead by a relative of a Viet Cong fighter in green fatigues you’ll walk the bush trails discovering grass covered trapdoors, ingenious, yet gruesome booby traps and hidden underwater entrances in rivers. There is also an opportunity to go underground and pop off a few rounds at the firing range. Our Cu Chi Tunnels bolt-on includes return transportation to and from Cu Chi, guided tour and 1 night accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City.
Prices & Dates
'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. On all of our family tours parent and teenager rooms are side by side or interconnecting. We also offer a triple share option on this holiday, please contact us for details. All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons.
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Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
The Q Hotel, Hanoi
One of the best boutique hotels in Hanoi, The Q Hotel is housed in a cosy French building in the heart of the city. The hotel restaurant is open 24/7 and offers a fine array of local and international cuisine. Rooms are modern, with wood flooring and king-sized beds, as well as ensuite bathrooms and balconies in some rooms. Amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, TV, kettle, minibar and safe. There is a bar and fitness centre for guests to use and attractions including the Imperial Citadel and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are within a 30-minute walk.
Sleeper train - 4 berth cabin, Hanoi
Cabins on board are comfortable though not comparable to European standards. Aboard each wagon are 9 compartments that comprise of 4 bunks per compartment shared by mixed sexes. A western-style toilet (with a varying degree of cleanliness) is located at either end of the wagon. Air-conditioning (not always operational in the summer) and lighting are controlled from inside the cabin, which is also lockable. Luggage can be stored in a compartment under the bottom bunk. Linen and a pillow are provided.
La Casa Hotel, Hanoi
Set in the tranquil French Quarter of Hanoi, La Casa Hotel offers a comfortable stay in Vietnam’s bustling capital. Each guestroom features free high-speed WiFi and individually controlled air conditioning, alongside the other amenities you’d expect of a modern hotel. Guests can enjoy Asian cuisine in the on-site restaurant as well as a range of beverages in the bar. The gym boasts fantastic views over the city, however, if you’re looking to unwind, you can take a dip in the fountain swimming pool or head to the hotel's spa center.
Mai Chau Lodge, Mai Chau
A relaxing retreat in the lush valley of Mai Chau. This charming boutique property, offers all modern conveniences and well appointed rooms, with scenic views of the mountains, lake, pool or valley. The Lodge’s restaurants serves traditional and international cuisine, facilities include a sauna, steam room and jacuzzi and a range of activities are available, such as cooking, biking and kayaking.
Le Clos Du Fil, Ninh Binh
This quaint boutique hotel is found in the village of Van Lam, a 700-year old village known for its crafting and embroidery. Classic Vietnamese architecture, rural charm, locally handmade decor and a traditional way of life combine to make Le Clos Du Fil a both comfortable and informative place to stay. Rooms feature large windows (some also include balconies) from which to enjoy the rustic views, as well as air-conditioning, safe, Wi-Fi and ensuite bathroom. The onsite restaurant serves fresh, local food and guests can even join a cooking class to learn how to produce local cuisine. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and spa for guests to enjoy.
Bhaya Classic I Junk Boat, Halong Bay
This premier cruise boat offers 18 well appointed cabins with en suite amenities. Cabins are contemporary in design, whilst the finer touches have a distinct oriental influence. All cabins feature large windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere as well as scenic views. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area on-deck, masseur and small library.
Mondial Hotel, Hue
Just a 5 minute walk from the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Mondial Hotel is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms benefit from spacious interiors, comfortable beds and lots of mod-cons. There is complimentary Wi-Fi for guests, an outdoor pool and onsite spa - perfect for a re laxing massage. As well as the delicious Huong Xuan Restaurant there is also the Lobby Lounge - great for cocktails before dinner!
ÊMM Hotel, Hue
Situated in the heart of the former imperial capital, ÊMM Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sights. Guestrooms are spacious and complete with modern amenities. The hotel's imperial jade and royal purple colour scheme was inspired by ancient Hue itself. Guests can take advantage of the mini-gym, pool-side bar and reading area. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine in the onsite contemporary restaurant.
Vinh Hung Riverside Resort, Hoi An
Situated right on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this upscale hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the ancient town of Hoi An. Combining Vietnamese tradition with modern facilities, its guestrooms are set in coconut tree-shaded gardens beside the water. They’re well-equipped, with free WiFi and air conditioning, as well as private balconies. The hotel also offers a riverside restaurant, serving local specialties and western dishes on the outdoor terrace. This hotel’s highlight, however, is its pool and fabulous swim up bar, which is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail.
ÊMM Hotel, Hoi An
Ideally located less than 200 metres from Hoi An's Old Quarter, this beautiful hotel features a mix of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architecture. There's an outdoor swimming pool and a serene private garden to unwind in. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and other meals in the onsite restaurant and drinks at the bar. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Room are colourfully and tastefully decorated, with minibars, fridges, TV and ensuite bathrooms.
Muong Thanh Centre, Ho Chi Minh City
Centrally located, yet on a peaceful, tree-lined street, you will find the Muong Thanh Centre. Only a ten-minute walk from top attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Ben Thanh Market, this hotel is a great base for exploring the famous sights of the city. Its guest rooms boast sophisticated designs and panoramic views. Warm and friendly, the Muong Thanh Centre also features a spa and swimming pool for you to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Bay Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City
The 16-storey, Saigon River-facing Bay Hotel is located just a couple of streets away from the Notre Dame Basilica and Independence Palace in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Rooms offer a complimentary Wi-Fi connection and a complimentary minibar, which is replenished daily. Rooms are bright and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathroom, TV and safe. The hotel restaurant serves a variety of Asian cuisine and there is a daily buffet breakfast. The rooftop pool and bar offers incredible views over the city.
At a Glance
Tour Add-ons
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