Vietnam Cultural Explorer & Gourmet Overland Journey

Sample original Vietnamese egg coffee at this historic establishment operating since 1946. Head inside to order the rich cream froth whipped with condensed milk.

Hire a traditional three-wheeled cyclo to navigate the bustling alleys of the Old Quarter. Negotiate the rate upfront before starting your tour.

Walk or bike across this historic cantilever bridge constructed during the French colonial era, offering dramatic urban views of the Red River.

Watch train traffic pass within feet of residential buildings. Access is managed through side alley cafes, so coordinate with a cafe owner to take a seat safely off the track.

Dine at the famous spot where Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain famously shared grilled pork, broth, and vermicelli noodles for a very affordable price.

Unwind in the French Quarter with vintage-inspired bespoke cocktails in a cozy, intimate speakeasy atmosphere.

Pay respects at President Ho Chi Minh's monument and explore the modest wooden stilt house where he lived. Dress modestly and observe strict quiet guidelines.

Try rich red wine beef stew (sőt vang) served hot with warm baguettes for dipping, or traditional Vietnamese bít tết steak with fried eggs.

Visit this hidden speakeasy bar on Bat Su Street for vintage decor, plush seating, and custom craft cocktails.

Head into Tam Thuong alleyway to taste nem chua rán—crispy deep-fried fermented pork rolls served with spicy chili sauce.

Board the overnight sleeper train to Lao Cai from Hanoi Station. Ensure you head to the back platforms early if carrying heavy luggage.

Settle into a 4-berth compartment on the Chapa Express train. Bedding, bottled water, snacks, and toiletries are provided on board.

Arrive at Lao Cai station early in the morning and transfer by minibus or taxi up the winding mountain road to Sapa town.

Stay in comfortable mountain glamping tents equipped with heating units for chilly highland evenings.

Take the scenic Muong Hoa funicular railway from Sun Plaza in Sapa town straight to the cable car station.

Ride the world record-holding 6.3 km cable car across the cloud-draped Muong Hoa valley toward the peak of Mount Fansipan.

Explore the grand summit temple complex featuring a 22-meter bronze Buddha, stone pagodas, and panoramic high-altitude mountain views.

Walk down into Cat Cat Village to see traditional Hmong stilt homes, indigo-dyed fabrics, and the local waterfall along stone footpaths.

Enjoy a hot pot dinner in Sapa, served with an abundant mound of fresh highland leafy greens and local herbs.

Arrive at the marina to complete check-in procedures before boarding the tender boat to your cruise ship.

Check into your cabin on board the M'Gloria cruise ship. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies facing limestone karsts.

Visit this small water-accessible temple where local fishermen pray for safety and good fortune before heading out into the bay.

Take a rowboat or kayak excursion into the Dark and Bright Cave in Cat Ba National Park, passing beneath stalactites into a enclosed lagoon.

Keep an eye on the steep cliffs of Cat Ba National Park to spot rare white-headed langurs living wild in the coastal jungle canopy.

Stop at a secluded island beach for a brief swim in clear ocean waters amidst the towering limestone cliffs.

Return to Hanoi station in the evening to board the high-end private berth on the Laman Express sleeper train.

Enjoy a private 2-berth VIP compartment complete with complimentary meals, hot coffee service, and scenic views of central Vietnam's countryside as morning arrives.