Vietnam-8-days: culinary-culture

Arrive at the Noi Bai International Airport (IATA Code: HAN). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs. Look for a JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name or the JrnyOn logo at the exit. They will transfer you to your pre-booked hotel in Hanoi.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 32.2 kms / 20 miles

Enjoy a warm and lively welcome dinner at a local restaurant chosen by Chef JoNe, a perfect introduction to the flavours of Vietnam.

After breakfast, set off on a guided tour of Chau Long Market, a vibrant hub of local life. Wander through colourful stalls brimming with fresh produce, exotic spices, and regional delicacies, while your guide shares insights into Hanoi’s culinary traditions and daily rhythms.

The Hanoi Street Food Tour offers an immersive journey into the heart of the city’s culinary culture, where eating on the street is a cherished tradition. Starting with a leisurely walk through the Old Quarter, you'll savor Pho Ga, Vietnam’s iconic chicken noodle soup, alongside local food enthusiasts. Explore a lively street market, try Banh Duc, a traditional rice powder dish, and sample childhood-favourite Northern cakes like Com cake. End your tour with a banh mi at Banh My Lan Ong, followed by che (sweet soup) and a rich cup of Vietnamese egg coffee.

Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, nestled in the heart of Hanoi. A symbol of learning and Confucian values, its ancient courtyards, stone stelae, and elegant pavilions offer a serene glimpse into the country’s scholarly past and cultural pride.

Experience the charm of a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a northern art form nearly a thousand years old. Puppets glide across water, animated by hidden performers, while live musicians play age-old tunes using drums, horns, bamboo flutes, and wooden bells—bringing legends and rural tales vividly to life.

Drive back to central Hanoi for a 1hr cycle rickshaw tour through the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century.

Step into the heart of Hanoi with a warm home-cooked dinner hosted by a local family. Share stories over fragrant dishes, discover the customs of daily life, and experience the deep-rooted sense of kinship that defines Vietnamese culture. It’s a heartfelt encounter where food, tradition, and hospitality come together.

After breakfast at the hotel, relax as our car takes you to the captivating north, where the emerald waters and limestone karsts of Halong Bay await. A scenic drive leads you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its breathtaking beauty, hidden caves, and tranquil charm—a true gem of Vietnam.

Duration: 3.5 hours
Distance: 177 kms / 109 miles

Step aboard for a scenic cruise through emerald waters dotted with towering limestone karsts. Along the way, pause to explore a hidden grotto adorned with dazzling stalactites and stalagmites. Savour delicious meals on board as breathtaking vistas unfold around every bend, making this journey a feast for both the eyes and the senses.

Join a hands-on Vietnamese cooking demonstration led by the cruise’s talented chef. Discover how to prepare iconic dishes like fresh or deep-fried spring rolls as the chef guides you step by step, sharing expert tips, traditional techniques, and fascinating cultural stories behind each ingredient. A flavourful journey into Vietnam’s culinary heritage awaits.

Start your day with a serene Tai Chi session on the sundeck, surrounded by gentle morning breezes and panoramic views. Let your body and mind awaken in harmony as you follow graceful movements.

After an early lunch on board around 11:30am, you'll transfer back to Hanoi where a day-use room awaits—available until 18:00. Take this time to relax, shower, or simply unwind after your journey. Refreshed and recharged, you'll then head to the station to board the comfortable night train bound for Da Nang, ready for the next leg of your adventure.

Hop aboard an overnight train to Da Nang, where the rhythmic clatter of the tracks guides you through the night. As the city lights fade behind, your cabin becomes a cosy retreat, offering a peaceful escape. Wake up to the breathtaking views of Vietnam's lush landscapes as you approach Da Nang, ready for the day's adventure.

Enjoy a scenic drive from Danang to Hoi An, where coastal views and lush landscapes set the stage for your journey to the charming ancient town.

Duration: 1 Hour
Distance: 30 km/ 18.6 miles

Wander through the timeless streets of this ancient town, where every step on the cobblestones tells a story. As you stroll, take in the sight of centuries-old Chinese houses, their traditional architecture standing proudly amidst the passage of time. The intricate details and weathered charm of these homes transport you back to a bygone era, full of history and culture.

Step into the heart of Hoi An and discover the iconic Old Japanese Bridge, a charming structure with its serene arch and rich history. Nearby, explore the Phuc Kien Hall, a beautifully preserved Chinese assembly hall with intricate carvings and vibrant colours. Together, these landmarks offer a glimpse into Hoi An's cultural fusion and timeless beauty.

Enjoy your morning at leisure, allowing you to explore at your own pace or relax before the journey. In the early afternoon, you'll be transferred to Da Nang airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh, where new adventures await. Take this time to reflect on the experiences you've had so far, gearing up for the next chapter of your trip.

Discover the vibrant Spice Garden, where you'll be guided through lush paths to explore our fruit and herb gardens. Enjoy the refreshing scents of nature, learn about aromatic plants, and even feed the friendly fish in our tranquil pond. A perfect blend of nature and relaxation awaits you, offering a sensory journey through the heart of the garden.

Step into the kitchen for a hands-on cooking session led by a passionate local chef. Prepare a selection of authentic Vietnamese dishes—from flavourful noodle soups to crispy pancakes and fresh spring rolls. After the class, enjoy the dishes you've prepared in a hearty lunch.

Experience the heart of Mekong Delta with a local home visit. Learn traditional farming and fishing, cook authentic dishes with your hosts, and savor fresh Mekong specialties. Enjoy a Don Ca Tai Tu music performance, cycle through village paths, and taste tropical fruits, immersing yourself in local culture.

Hop aboard a private boat to cruise along the serene waterways of Ben Tre. As you glide through lush coconut gardens, stop at a welcoming local home, where you'll indulge in fresh tropical fruits and savor homemade coconut jams. The vibrant flavors and the tranquil setting make for an unforgettable experience in this charming corner of Vietnam.

Hop into a tuk-tuk and explore the charming villages, where you'll get a glimpse of rural life in its true essence. Along the way, discover the local industries centred around coconuts. Watch artisans craft coconut candies, extract oil, and shape coconut shells into bowls. This tour offers a hands-on experience of the sustainable, creative ways the community thrives.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the heart of the Mekong Delta, where regional flavours shine. Savour the famed elephant ear fish, served whole and crispy. Wrap its tender meat in rice paper with herbs, noodles, and pickles, then dip into tangy sauces. This interactive meal is a true taste of Delta culture and shared hospitality.

Cruise through the scenic waterways leading to Ben Tre, gliding past lush coconut palms and tranquil river life. Arrive at the charming Ben Tre boat pier, where the atmosphere captures the essence of the Mekong Delta. After the cruise, journey back to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City by bus, reflecting on a serene riverside escape.

Today your JrnyOn journey comes to an end. Transport will be arranged to get you to the Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Airport Code: SGN) for your flight back home.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 14.4 kms / 8.9 miles