Cultural Riches of Southern and Central Vietnam Tour

Pick-up at the airport. Transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

A trip to the Mekong Delta offers a fascinating glimpse into the unique agrarian life of this vibrant southern region of Vietnam. We will embark on a relaxing cruise along the Mekong River to one of the islands near My Tho, where we will be entertained with traditional music. While enjoying the melodies, we will sip tea sweetened with bee honey and savor seasonal fresh fruits, experiencing the local flavors.

Next, we will take a paddle boat to navigate through the narrow canals of the Mekong. An interesting aspect of transportation in this region is that most locals travel by boat due to the extensive network of interlaced canals. This well-developed system of water transportation allows us to discover many unique sights, including picturesque banks lined with coconut trees.

During the paddle boat ride, we will get an intriguing look at the local cottage industry, particularly the process of making coconut candy. Afterward, we will enjoy a delicious lunch featuring ‘Elephant-Ear Fish’ along with other traditional Vietnamese dishes, highlighting the region’s culinary specialties. To conclude our trip, we will visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, a national historical and cultural relic known for its distinctive architectural and spiritual significance - a place not to be missed.

In the evening, we will go to an old park to taste "Banh Trang Tron" - Vietnamese Rice Paper Salad, a magical mix of crispy textures that’s incredibly refreshing and fun to eat as well as "Bo Bia", a fresh type of spring roll packed with vegetables. Continuing to another busy area, we will try"Banh Xeo" - Crispy Vietnamese Pancake (also known as sizzling cake), which are widely believed to have originated during the French Occupation of Vietnam. We will also sample "Trung Vit Lon" - Half-hatched Duck Eggs, considered a delicacy by many Vietnamese. Next, we will stop to try some of Sai Gon’s famous "Oc" - Steamed and Roasted Snails - paired with local beer. It's common for Vietnamese, particularly men, to go for drinks with clients or friends after work. Locals typically enjoy their beer poured into a mug with ice, rather than directly from a cold bottle.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport to go to Hoi An. Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, pick up and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Hoi An.

Discover Hoi An’s countryside and unique local cuisine by bicycle. Hoi An’s dishes are well-known and loved by tourists, with food stalls and restaurants lining the streets. These dishes are not only popular but are also cultural symbols, offering visitors a true taste of the local life.

The journey begins with a bike ride through the picturesque countryside to Tra Que Village, famous for its fresh vegetables, which are supplied to many local restaurants. These vegetables are essential for making Hoi An’s signature dish, Cao Lau, with its perfect blend of flavors.

We then return to town, where you will learn how to make the famous “white rose” dumplings with a local family and enjoy tasting your handmade creations. Afterward, we head to a renowned local restaurant to try Cao Lau, a traditional dish featuring local noodles, pork, fresh herbs, and crispy rice paper. The noodles are made using water from Ba Le Well, the oldest well in Hoi An, believed to provide the perfect taste.

Lastly, we cycle to Cam Nam to enjoy local specialties such as Banh Dap (cracked rice pancake) and Che Bap (corn and coconut sweet soup), offering a delightful balance of flavors. Overnight in Hoi An.

The Marble Mountains (Vietnamese: Ngu Hanh Son; literally "Five Elements Mountains") is a breathtaking destination in Da Nang, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As you ascend the carved stone steps, you will be rewarded with stunning views and the serenity of a Buddhist pagoda perched atop the mountain. The hike offers an invigorating workout while surrounded by lush vegetation and impressive rock formations.

After enjoying the scenic vistas, we will head to the nearby stone village, where skilled local artisans create exquisite marble products. This visit provides a unique opportunity to witness the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making these stunning pieces. Next, we will explore Am Phu Cave, renowned for its eerie underground tunnels featuring replicas of “Heaven and Hell.” As you navigate through the cave, the sounds of bats fluttering around you add a mysterious ambiance to the experience.

To wrap up our tour, we will visit Son Tra Linh Ung Pagoda. Established during the reign of King Minh Mang in the 19th century, the pagoda is steeped in legend. Locals believe it brings good fortune, with calm seas and bountiful fishing, making it a beloved site for worship and reflection.

Have free time in the afternoon. Overnight in Hoi An.

Start your culinary adventure with a visit to the local market, where you will explore fresh ingredients and learn about traditional Vietnamese foods and flavors, preparing for your cooking class. Next, enjoy a unique basket boat ride through the famous Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Cam Thanh commune. Drift along tranquil waterways, surrounded by lush coconut groves, and take in the beauty of the landscape.

Afterward, return to the cooking center for a hands-on class, where you will learn to prepare delicious Vietnamese dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor your creations, making for a memorable cultural and culinary experience.

In the afternoon, transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Have breakfast at the hotel and relax until the time of transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight.