Vietnam from North to South
Trip highlights
- Savour delicious street food and local delicacies in Hanoi
- Soak up lush mountain and valley views in Mai Chau
- Explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang's impressive cave systems
- Marvel at the grandeur of Hue's imperial past
- Discover Hoi An's cultural melting pot
- Immerse yourself in Ho Chi Minh's history on a sidecar tour
Our bespoke trips include
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–3 Hanoi
- Days 3–4 Lan Ha Bay
- Days 4–5 Hanoi
- Days 5–7 Mai Chau
- Days 7–9 Dong Hoi
- Days 9–10 Hue
- Days 10–12 Hoi An
- Days 12–15 Ho Chi Minh
- Days 1–3 Hanoi
- Days 3–4 Lan Ha Bay
- Days 4–5 Hanoi
- Days 5–7 Mai Chau
- Days 7–9 Dong Hoi
- Days 9–10 Hue
- Days 10–12 Hoi An
- Days 12–15 Ho Chi Minh
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Two nights in Hanoi
Hanoi is a whirlwind of colours, smells and sounds and a wonderful place to get a real flavour of life in Vietnam.
Its pretty pagodas, ancient temples, enchanting French colonial quarter and cultural institutions are all enthralling. Just as fun, however, is darting down its winding lanes and discovering your own favourite hidden corners. The hustle and bustle of Hanoi is contagious, and it is also one of the best places to sample the mouth watering array of street food that Vietnam is famous for.
Where you could stay
Hanoi
Overview
Just moments from the Opera House in the French Quarter of Hanoi, Hotel Metropole Hanoi boasts the most prestigious address in the city and ideally located for visitors to explore the charming architecture and bustling streets.
The hotel has 364 rooms and 22 suites and offers the finest heritage accommodation with all the contemporary comforts and impeccable service expected in a hotel of this stature. The bars and restaurants, especially Le Beaulieu, within the hotel are celebrated with Hanoi and guests have a choice of French, Vietnamese or International cuisine. After a busy day exploring Hanoi, the tranquil pool and Le Spa du Metropole are very welcoming.
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Jeep Tour
Cycling Tour
Hanoi city by vintage Jeep
Explore Hanoi’s yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes by vintage Jeep, taking in landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and Hoan Kiem Lake. Finish the tour with a glimpse into eclectic Hanoi street life at the famed Old Quarter, known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’.
Duong Lam village cycling tour
Head to Duong Lam in the northern Red River Delta, and the first village in Vietnam to be recognised by UNESCO for its efforts in preserving local heritage and culture. A 5km (3 mile) bicycle tour along Duong Lam’s narrow alleyways will show you rural life and ancient Vietnamese architecture dating back 400 years, before enjoying a home-hosted lunch. Further stops include the 15th century Mia Pagoda and other temples.
A flying visit to Lan Ha Bay
A less touristed neighbour of the iconic Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay’s 300-odd karst islands and limestone outcrops are strikingly beautiful. The picturesque waters are home to hundreds of species of fish, as well as larger marine animals such as seals and dolphins.
Where you could stay
Halong Bay
Highlights
- The vessel’s limited number of suites creates an exclusive and intimate atmosphere for your journey
- 1930s style décor combines French and Indochinese influences for an opulent space to unwind
- Onboard spa offers an array of treatments including massages and reflexology
- Savour beautifully presented, a la carte meals, with private dining options available for special occasions
- A peaceful way to experience the beauty of Halong Bay
Overview
This vessel is small, yet exquisite. Built to resemble a traditional Asian junk ship, with décor inspired by both French and Indochinese influences, it is named after the delicate Violet Chirita flower and offers a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Halong Bay.
Due to the modest size of the Violet, there are just six suites on board, for an intimate and private sailing experience. Junior suites feature 20 square metres of floor space, which extends out onto a 5 square metre balcony, and an Italian marble bathroom with both a walk-in shower and a Jacuzzi. The four Imperial suites feature 1930s inspired Indochina décor and plush king-sized beds with a massive 38 square metres of space on the upper deck.
Enjoy creative Vietnamese fusion cuisine in the boat’s dining room, which serves seafood fresh from the Mekong, before enjoying drinks up on the sun deck in the evening. It’s here on the top level of the Violet that you can also take part in daily morning Tai Chi sessions with the ocean breeze in your hair.
→ Find out moreLan Ha Bay
Highlights
- Ten cabins
- Restaurant, lounge and two bars
- Library
- Sundeck
- Boutique
- Massage room
- Swimming, snorkelling and kayaking
- Bamboo row boating
- Trekking
- Caving
Overview
An elegantly relaxed experience in Lan Ha, an area which is quieter than Halong Bay.
Three decks of polished woodwork, Indochine decor and panoramic views of the UNESCO-protected bay fill this cruiser. Despite its large size, the Ginger is home to just ten cabins, ensuring there is still an intimate atmosphere awaiting you on board.
Take in those gorgeous emerald views during a morning Tai Chi lesson, whilst dining at the restaurant or from the comfortable sundeck. Then, explore the fabulous limestone scenery close-up with unforgettable kayaking, snorkelling and caving tours.
→ Find out moreLan Ha Bay
Overview
Ylang is the exquisite newest member of Heritage Line’s ship collection, that sails through Lan Ha Bay. Its sleek and luxurious design set to the backdrop of this jaw dropping scenery is a picture to behold.
Once in its expansive and stylish interior, you’ll find ten magnificent suites. Natural light floods the interior of this ship and your private suite is no exception, thanks to panoramic doors pulling you into the phenomenal scenery that floats by. Be sure to further explore the natural wonders around you on your private balcony, which are a welcome feature of each suite.
On board you’ll experience delicious Vietnamese cuisine at the restaurant and bar, where you’ll be surrounded by 180-degree windows, offering perfect views of the bay.
Throughout the ship you’ll notice a splendid blend of Asian-Vietnamese design and local artisans decorate Ylang’s interior with hand-crafted paintings.
During the day, make the most of the invigorating activities on offer from kayaking to cycling and hiking through Cat Ba Island National Park. There is also a strong focus on wellness with activities on board ranging from yoga to early morning Tai Chi lessons on the upper deck.
After an active day on the water, relax in the Ylang spa, where you can indulge in a variety of treatments or make use of the sauna. For some downtime later in the evening head to the library salon or marvel at the stars from on top of the terrace deck.
→ Find out moreHead back to Hanoi
Spend another night in Hanoi for another chance to explore its eclectic streets and mouth watering street food scene.
Where you could stay
Hanoi
Overview
Just moments from the Opera House in the French Quarter of Hanoi, Hotel Metropole Hanoi boasts the most prestigious address in the city and ideally located for visitors to explore the charming architecture and bustling streets.
The hotel has 364 rooms and 22 suites and offers the finest heritage accommodation with all the contemporary comforts and impeccable service expected in a hotel of this stature. The bars and restaurants, especially Le Beaulieu, within the hotel are celebrated with Hanoi and guests have a choice of French, Vietnamese or International cuisine. After a busy day exploring Hanoi, the tranquil pool and Le Spa du Metropole are very welcoming.
→ Find out moreStreet food tour
Street food is an important part of Vietnamese culture and embraced by all. Your street food tour will begin with an introduction to local ingredients at a local food market with a chef. With some background knowledge it’s time to hit the streets and start your food adventure. Explore small alleys and bustling streets and savour some of Hanoi’s specialties which will be recommended and explained by your gastronome.
Two nights in Mai Chau
Located in Hoa Binh Province, Mai Chau is packed with glorious views of mountains and valleys surrounded by lush landscapes and authentic stilt houses. It’s the ideal place to experience authentic rural communities and cultures, either on walks or bike rides around the countryside. There’ll be chances to sample home cooked food, visit local markets, or simply explore the village on foot.
Where you could stay
The Northern Highlands
Highlights
- Choose from a collection of 36 bungalows, suites and private pool villas
- Indulge in a variety of holistic treatments at the spa
- Set out on exciting adventures to discover the region of Mai Chau
- Savour gourmet meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients at the hotel's two restaurants
- Experience dining by a waterfall
- Enjoy a gorgeous three-layer infinity pool with incredible views of the valley
Overview
Avana Retreat is located deep in a tropical rainforest, steeped in indigenous heritage and fascinating culture. The design, construction, decor and location of this retreat create an inseparable connection between nature and people.
There are 36 timeless mountain bungalows, some with private pools and all with lush views and surrounded by green gardens. Each bungalow has been meticulously designed to ensure privacy and comfort. Traditional design has been used throughout using rattan ceilings, earth walls and thatched roofs. The tranquil orchid spa features eight different treatment rooms, offering guests a complete selection of body treatments and facials targeted to individual needs.
There are two restaurants at Avana Retreat. Green Chilli restaurant is a large area with open walls and ratan ceilings. Spacious dining tables and chairs offer a sense of tranquillity while dining with the sounds of nature all around. Hearty breakfasts of freshly made breads, pastries, jams and in-season local fruits are available followed by lunch and dinner options, all created using the very best ingredients. Local flavours, spices and dishes are served with a modern twist and some international flair.
The Cloud Pool bar is located next to the stunning three-level infinity pool and serves delectable lunches and small plates to satisfy afternoon cravings. At sunset, enjoy magical views from the outdoor terrace as you sip inspired cocktail concoctions.
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- Avana Retreat spans 10 hectares of reforested land and features sustainable local building methods, including earth walls, woven rattan ceilings and palm leaf roofs, minimising its environmental impact. These ancient techniques were taught to Avana by craftsmen from three minority groups in Mai Chau.
- 90% of Avana’s employees are from ethnic groups who previously relied on rice farming for income. Your stay supports hospitality training programmes that help them succeed.
- As a guest, you help to contribute to Avana’s ambitious reforestation programme, with over 10,000 trees planted. This initiative has significantly boosted local biodiversity, increasing the presence of hummingbirds, squirrels and reptiles.
Cycle through Mai Chau
Explore Mai Chau’s beautiful landscapes by bike, cycling past impossibly green rice paddies and local villages, where you can discover local traditions and soak up the scenery.
Two nights in Dong Hoi
Your next stop is Dong Hoi. While not yet a major tourist attraction, this coastal city’s white sand beaches, engaging markets and proximity to Phong Nha-Ke Bang national park and cave systems make it an enjoyable stop on your journey.
Where you could stay
Vietnam
Overview
Located near the entrance to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Chay Lap Farmstay is a comfortable base from which to explore this beautiful region of Vietnam. Given Chay Lap Farmstay’s rural setting, the resort pays special attention to sustainability practices and community enrichment, implementing recycling and employing local people.
The 39 rooms, housed within snug bungalows and cottages, with some encompassing pinewood barrelled ceilings, rest at the base of towering limestone karsts surrounded by landscaped gardens and farm fields. Natural design elements along with light and airy interiors and large windows allow guests to feel immersed in the exterior environment.
At the heart of this sanctuary is the Expedition Restaurant, a welcoming space, with a variety of seating options, and a menu focused on local cuisine, as well as international dishes. Re-energising can also be sought at the on-site spa, which features individual sauna boxes set among the tropical grounds. After a day of adventuring in the park and trekking to the hidden caves and grottoes, guests can also enjoy massages, with oils created from the gardens.
To further experience the natural splendour of the area, guests staying at the resort have access to a water sports centre, offering kayaking, jet skiing and boat cruises. Bike rental is free, and the expansive outdoor pool provides the perfect tonic for concluding a day of activities.
→ Find out morePhong Nha-Ke Bang National Park Tour
Drive from Dong Hoi to Paradise Cave. At 31km long, it’s the largest, and possibly the most beautiful cave in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang area, surrounded by forested karst peaks, and featuring cathedral-like spaces with colossal stalagmites and glimmering stalactites. You’ll also explore the uniquely blue waters of Mooc Spring by kayak, and navigate the Dark Cave.
One day in Hue
Enjoy an evening at leisure in the imperial city of Hue. The river and the bridge light up at night and the old town has some charming streets to wander, as well as some great restaurants.
Where you could stay
Hue
Overview
It seems only fitting to see the ‘Imperial City’ from the regal splendor of Azerai La Residence Hue; once the French Colonial Governor’s residence, this 122-room boutique hotel has been immaculately restored to its former glory.
Sitting on the banks of the city’s central landmark, the Perfume River, the imperial architecture of the 1930s nods to the history’s past, and many of the rooms have views across to the UNESCO-protected former Imperial Citadel, once home to Vietnam’s most powerful Emperors.
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Tour of Hue
Hue to Hoi An
Afternoon tour of Hue
One serving as an imperial capital to the Nguyen Lords, Hue retains its royal charm with splendid emperors’ tombs, ancient pagodas and the Imperial Citadel, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your private guide will explain the events and intrigue of the former royal court, as well as the fierce battles which took place here, on a tour of the magnificent architecture and gardens.
Hue to Hoi An by motorbike
Meet up with your local driver and embark on an incredible ride from Hue to Hoi An, stopping enroute Sampan village, where villagers live on boats in the biggest lagoon of Southeast Asia. Amongst the incredible views of the Hai Van Pass, you’ll also stop at Elephant Springs for a relaxing swim, and Marble Mountain to see stone sculptures.
Soak up the culture in Hoi An
Once an important port and trading town, Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s greatest cultural relics and a melting pot of Chinese, Japanese and French influences. Visit the atmospheric Old Town to see the famed Japanese bridge, the Chinese temples, old tea warehouses and traditional pagodas. Motorised traffic is banned from the town centre which has cemented Hoi An’s status as one of Vietnam’s most prized and pleasant towns. It’s especially romantic in the evening when lanterns light up the paved streets.
Where you could stay
Hoi An
Overview
Tranquil and classic French colonial style enfolds you at the Anantara for an intimate stay. Scenically positioned on the banks of the Thu Bon River and right in the heart of the city of Hoi An, you are ideally situated to explore the treasures of this charming region.
93 rooms and suites are housed in a two- and three-story white pillared building and come with river or garden views. Rooms are comfortable and gracefully furnished with a host of modern comforts and feature spacious balconies. The airy terrace of the Riverside Café is a great spot for a light lunch as you gaze out across the river, while the Heritage Bar in the courtyard is the place to grab a pre-dinner cocktail. For something really special, take advantage of their ‘dining by design’ service where you can dine al fresco with your own private chef.
Pretty gardens and an outdoor pool are perfect for when you want to simply relax and unwind and there is a spa where you can create a ‘spa journey’ and indulge in a series of tailored treatments. For those who want to get out and explore, you are just a short stroll from the centre of this historic port town.
→ Find out moreDanang
Overview
A private enclave surrounded by high granite walls with direct beach access and daily complimentary spa treatments, TIA Wellness Resort is a sophisticated, spoiling and tranquil haven 20km outside Hoi An.
The focus here is on allowing guests to completely switch off, offering a discreet but impeccable service. Its pool, spa and beach villas are minimal and modern in design and feature outdoor courtyards and private plunge pools. Pool villas are perfect for couples or friends while the two-bedroom spa villas and three-bedroom beach villas are ideal for families or groups of friends.
One of the real highlights of TIA Wellness Resort is the spa, set within the lush, tropical gardens. A range of treatments are available, totally tailored to suit you, and there is an outdoor pool for relaxing in before or after.
When it comes to dining, it is all about fresh, vibrant food made with the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy the fusion menu at the Fiving Dining Room as well as grilled seafood and salads at the aptly named ‘Fresh’ poolside restaurant. There is also the option to experience destination dining and enjoy a delicious meal in a special and unique location.
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting towns and there is a shuttle bus to take you back and forth for when you want to explore. When you want to simply relax and unwind, indulge in a spa treatment or sit back with a bucket of popcorn and enjoy a film in the hotel’s very own HD cinema.
→ Find out moreHoi An
Highlights
- Stunning surroundings
- Two restaurants serving traditional and international dishes
- Four pools, one of which merges with the rice fields
- Let yourself be pampered at the 'La Spa' villas
- A wide variety of accommodation options
Overview
Enjoy your stay at this boutique retreat which reflects the essence of Hoi An ancient town’s characteristic style. Set amid green rice fields and winding village lanes, near the Thu Bon River and a short walk from Hoi An old town, Las Siesta boasts colourful tropical gardens and handcrafted dark teak furniture.
Accommodation options include a wide selection of guestrooms, suites and duplexes housed across a classic hotel-style building and two townhouse villas with verandas, terraces, and balconies. There are four pools across the property: one for children, a freshwater pool, a saltwater one and an infinity pool ‘merging’ with the rice fields. Wander the garden paths and discover the charming ‘La Spa’ villas, which is La Siesta’s award-winning spa. Here you can discover a wide menu from Himalayan salt stones to four-hands massage.
For dining, head to the Asian-influenced ‘Red Bean’ restaurant, where you can savour traditional Vietnamese fare, or indulge on classic European and international dishes at The Temple Restaurant & Lounge.
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Countryside cycling
Buffalo cart tour
Hoi An countryside cycling tour
After a short boat trip across the river from Hoi An, you’ll begin cycling along quiet inland trails. Along the way, learn how wooden river boats are made, as well as the art of weaving the colourful straw “Hoi An” sleeping mats. You’ll also have the option to stop at Tra Que Vegetable Village to observe traditional farming techniques in the organic fields, and even help out yourself if you wish.
Hoi An buffalo cart and fishing tour
Discover the Hoi An countryside with a fun buffalo cart ride, passing rice paddies and vegetable farms at Cam Thanh village along the way. Upon arrival at the wharf, board a local river boat and cruise down Hoi An River before trying your hand at casting the Vietnamese fishing nets. It takes practice, but the fisherman will offer their years of experience and advice.
Three days exploring Ho Chi Minh City
A booming economy has given Ho Chi Minh city (often still referred to as Saigon) a new energy and lease of life. Socially the city is flourishing with a sophisticated café culture, an exciting dining scene and burgeoning interest in eclectic art.
Where you could stay
Ho Chi Minh
Overview
A stylish new addition to Ho Chi Minh’s luxury hotel scene, the Hotel Des Arts Saigon is well located a little outside District 1 and within walking distance of the city’s best attractions and buzzing nightlife.
Hotel Des Arts is as much an art museum as it is a top-end boutique hotel and guests can peruse the owner’s personal collection of paintings and antiques that adorn the walls and hallways.
168 rooms and suites all feature chic details, crisp white linen, elegant bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows and spectacular city views, but the real gem is the Social Club up on the roof – a buzzy bar and trendy restaurant by the city’s highest infinity pool – exclusive to hotel guests.
Sit back and relax at the sophisticated Cafe des Beaux Arts which evokes plenty of old-world charm and enjoy afternoon tea and cocktails, pluck a book from the shelves, or simply enjoy the live music as the resident pianist tickles the ivories. Vietnamese and Western dishes are prepared in the open kitchen at the Saigon Kitchen Restaurant, where one wall is covered in French Provencal tiles and the others in works of art that represent the harmonious blend of cultures in Vietnam.
There is also a modern gym and sumptuous spa with hammam, Jacuzzi and a solarium for some relaxation after a day exploring the city.
→ Find out moreHo Chi Minh
Overview
With its French, colonial style and wonderful location overlooking the Saigon Opera House, the Park Hyatt is one of the city’s most iconic and elegant hotels.
Its 245 rooms and suites are sophisticated in design with plenty of handcrafted details such as custom designed rugs, fine linens and huge windows with white wooden shutters that fill the space with natural light. Many rooms come with private terraces that look out over the lush gardens and outdoor pool and they all feature mini iPads and Nespresso coffee machines for added comfort.
Square One offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine which you can see being cooking in the integrated show kitchens. On balmy evenings, guests can
choose to dine on the terrace surrounded by twinkling lights. Opera is a more casual trattoria-style restaurant serving a range of mouthwatering pasta dishes and pizza fresh from the wood-fired oven. There is a also a pastry boutique offering delicious home-made delicacies and a bar and lounge serving some of the best cocktails in Ho Chi Minh.
With some of the city’s landmark sights such as the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the Reunification Palace just a short stroll away, you’re ideally situated to explore this buzzing capital. Alternatively, relaxing and unwinding has never been easier with a fantastic pool and tranquil spa offering treatments inspired by the herbs, grains and fruits of the Mekong Delta.
→ Find out moreHo Chi Minh
Overview
Step into complete decadence at this soaring hotel where luxury becomes an art form. The Reverie Saigon commands the top floors of the multi-purpose Times Square Building in the heart of the central business district, with sweeping views of Ho Chi Minh wherever you look.
Crafted to absolute indulgence by Italian interior designers, the style here is more Venetian than Vietnamese. Opulence drips from every corner, from the gilt mirrors and velvet curtains of the rooms and the elaborate chandeliers in the fine dining restaurants, to the heli-pad and fleet of Rolls Royces awaiting your arrival. Sophisticated but fun is what guests can expect from this very unique hotel, with design touches and an attention to detail that cannot fail to impress.
The Royal Pavilion with its jade, vermilion and gold colour scheme is an elegant restaurant serving mouthwatering Cantonese cuisine. R&J, named after Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, features wall-to-wall mosaics and offers a tempting array of Italian dishes. Heading up the kitchen in The Long Bar is a pizza chef from Napoli who works to family recipes passed down through the generations. There is also a gelato bar offering over 30 flavours including Asian specialties such as soursop, purple sticky rice and salted caramel cashew.
When you’re not out exploring the city, relax and unwind at The Reverie’s spa, spread over two floors and featuring treatment rooms, a 24-hour fitness centre and outdoor pool.
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Street food tour
Sidecar tour
Cu Chi cycling
Cu Chi cycling
Evening Vespa street food tour
Get ready for a fascinating ride, as a passenger to your drive guide, by vintage Vespa to discover busy Saigon after dark, together with delightful food tasting in the most authentic local restaurants. Experience Southern Vietnam specialities before continuing to zig-zag through the hustle and bustle of the streets, ending your night at a cosy speakeasy bar to taste some signature cocktails (or mocktails).
Ho Chi Minh City tour by sidecar
Enjoy a half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic landmarks from the unique vantage point of a vintage sidecar motorbike with chauffeur. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, constructed from materials imported from France, before heading to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. A short drive takes you to the former Presidential Palace, followed by a visit to the War Remnants Museum.
Cu Chi cycling
The Cu Chi landscape is famous for its clay-like soil, rubber plantations and rice paddies, as well as the production of rice paper, which forms the base of many Vietnamese dishes. Visit the ingenious Cu Chi tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong as hiding spots during combat, as well as living quarters, and housed hospitals, food and weapons caches.