9-Day Vietnam Luxury Escape: Classic Routes & Premium Experiences
Vietnam is a land of breathtaking contrasts, where ancient traditions meet rapid modernization. This 9-day luxury route is designed for those who wish to see the country's most iconic sites without compromising on comfort. We have traded crowded buses for private transfers and standard hotels for world-class resorts and boutique colonial estates.
From the misty, historic streets of Hanoi to the sparkling skyline of Ho Chi Minh City, every step of this journey is curated to provide a VIP experience. You will enjoy private guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites, savor the fusion of French and Vietnamese gastronomy, and retreat to some of the finest spas in Southeast Asia.
Day 1: Hanoi, Vietnam - Arrival & Colonial Grandeur
VIP Arrival & Check-in at Sofitel Legend Metropole
After a fast-track immigration process, your private chauffeur will whisk you to the historic Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Spend the afternoon soaking in the French colonial atmosphere of this legendary hotel.
Private Electric Cart Tour of the Old Quarter
Avoid the humidity and the crowds by exploring the 36 Streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter in a private electric vehicle. Your guide will point out hidden temples and the history behind each specialized craft street.
Gourmet Dinner at Le Beaulieu
Experience the finest French cuisine in Hanoi at this award-winning restaurant. Indulge in a tasting menu featuring seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list from their private cellar.
Nightcap at Angelina
End your first night with a signature cocktail at Angelina, the Metropole’s bespoke bar and lounge, known for its extensive whiskey collection and chic atmosphere.
Day 2: Hanoi, Vietnam - Art, Culture & Secret Bunkers
Private Tour of the Temple of Literature
Visit Vietnam’s first university with a private historian who can explain the deep Confucian roots and architectural significance of this 11th-century site.
Metropole War Bunker Tour
An exclusive experience for hotel guests, discover the recently unearthed wartime bunker beneath the Sofitel Legend Metropole, where famous guests once sought shelter.
Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien
Visit the spot where Anthony Bourdain and Barack Obama shared a meal. While humble, the 'Obama Combo' is a culinary rite of passage in Hanoi, delivered with VIP seating for luxury guests.
Vietnamese Fine Art Museum
Explore the evolution of Vietnamese art from ancient sculptures to modern lacquer paintings in this beautiful colonial building with a private art consultant.
Day 3: Halong Bay, Vietnam - Emerald Waters & Private Decks
Luxury Transfer to Tuan Chau Marina
Leave the city behind in a luxury limousine van equipped with Wi-Fi and plush leather seating for the 2.5-hour journey to the coast.
Boarding the Heritage Line - Ginger or Orchid Cruise
Check into your Grand Suite with a private balcony. Begin your voyage through the karst limestone pillars of Lan Ha Bay, the quieter, more exclusive alternative to Halong Bay.
Kayaking & Cave Exploration
Take a private kayak to explore hidden lagoons or visit the Dark and Bright Cave by a local bamboo boat, far from the larger tourist vessels.
Candlelit Dinner on Deck
Enjoy a multi-course seafood dinner served under the stars on the ship’s upper deck, featuring fresh catch-of-the-day and traditional Vietnamese delicacies.
Day 4: Danang/Hoi An, Vietnam - Coastal Bliss
Tai Chi on the Sundeck
Start your morning with a guided Tai Chi session as the sun rises over the limestone peaks, followed by a light breakfast while cruising back to port.
Flight to Danang
A private transfer takes you to Cat Bi Airport for a short domestic flight to Danang. Avoid the long drives and enjoy the aerial views of the coastline.
Check-in at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai
Arrive at one of the world’s most prestigious beachfront resorts. Spend the afternoon enjoying your private villa or the infinity pools overlooking the East Sea.
Beachside Dining
Enjoy a private BBQ dinner on the sands of Ha My Beach, curated by the resort’s executive chef with a focus on local Hoi An flavors.
Day 5: Hoi An, Vietnam - Ancient Town & Bespoke Tailoring
Private Walking Tour of Hoi An
Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and the vibrant local market with a guide who can navigate the history and the best shopping spots.
Bespoke Tailoring Experience
Hoi An is world-famous for its tailoring. Visit a premium tailor like A Dong Silk for a private consultation and the creation of a custom suit or dress within 24 hours.
Reaching Out Tea House
Experience a moment of silence and beauty at this social enterprise tea house. Sip on premium Vietnamese oolong tea served in exquisite handcrafted ceramic sets.
Sunset River Cruise
Board a private traditional boat for a sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River. Release a silk lantern into the water for good luck as the town lights up.
Day 6: Hoi An, Vietnam - Culinary Arts & Wellness
Private Cooking Class at Red Bridge
Start at the market to select fresh herbs, then take a boat to the cooking school for a private masterclass in making Vietnamese classics like Pho and Rice Paper Rolls.
Lunch at Morning Glory Signature
Taste refined versions of Hoi An street food, such as Cao Lau and Rose Dumplings, in a beautifully restored colonial building.
Spa Ritual at The Nam Hai
Indulge in a 90-minute 'Earth Blessing' treatment at the resort’s award-winning spa, featuring singing bowls and organic Vietnamese ingredients.
Dinner at The Dining Room
Experience contemporary Vietnamese-International fusion at the resort, paired with world-class service and ocean breezes.
Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam - The Southern Metropolis
Flight to Saigon (HCMC)
Take a morning flight from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City. Your driver will meet you for the transfer to the heart of District 1.
Check-in at Park Hyatt Saigon
This hotel is the epitome of luxury in Saigon. Its sophisticated design and prime location make it the perfect base for exploring the city.
Independence Palace & Notre Dame Private Tour
Explore the architecture of the former Presidential Palace and the stunning red-brick Cathedral with a private guide who specializes in modern history.
Dinner at Anan Saigon
Dine at the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City. Chef Peter Cuong Franklin’s 'Cuisine Moi' reinvents street food classics with premium ingredients.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam - Mekong Delta by Speedboat
Luxury Speedboat to the Mekong Delta
Skip the 3-hour car ride and take a luxury speedboat from the Saigon pier. Enjoy the breeze and breakfast on board as you head toward the lush Delta.
Exploration of Ben Tre
Cycle through quiet village paths or take a horse-drawn carriage to visit local coconut workshops and honey bee farms in the 'Land of Coconuts.'
Riverside Lunch
Enjoy an authentic Delta lunch featuring 'Elephant Ear Fish' at a private garden villa on the riverside.
Sunset Cocktails at Chill Skybar
Watch the sun set over the glittering skyline of Saigon from one of the city's most iconic rooftop bars before your final farewell dinner.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam - VIP Departure
Last-Minute Shopping at Ben Thanh VIP
Visit the 'Le Cong Kieu' antique street or the premium boutiques of Dong Khoi Street for high-end souvenirs and lacquerware.
Brunch at L'Usine
Enjoy a final chic brunch at this concept store and café, reflecting the modern, trendy side of Ho Chi Minh City.
Spa & Relaxation
Enjoy a final foot massage or facial at your hotel before the airport transfer.
Private Transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport
Your chauffeur will drop you at the terminal for your departure flight.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam is a long country with three distinct climate zones. For this specific route covering North, Central, and South, the best time to visit is from February to April or September to November. During these months, the North is cool and dry, the Central coast is sunny, and the South isn't yet in the peak of monsoon season. If you travel in summer, expect high heat and occasional tropical downpours in the South.
Currency & Money
The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While luxury hotels and high-end restaurants widely accept Visa and Mastercard, carrying some cash is essential for smaller boutiques and tipping. Tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated in the luxury sector; a 5-10% tip for exceptional service in restaurants and a small gratuity for private guides and drivers is standard practice.
Getting Around Vietnam
For a 9-day luxury itinerary, domestic flights are the most efficient way to travel between Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam Airlines offers a reliable Business Class service. Within cities, private car services are recommended over public taxis for comfort and safety. For a unique experience, consider 'The Vietage' luxury train if your schedule allows for a slow-travel leg between Danang and Quy Nhon.
