VIETNAM SPIRITO LIBERO CON NINH BINH (SELF GUIDED)

Upon arrival at the airport, your private driver will be waiting to transfer you to the famous Hoan Kiem District. After checking in and settling into your hotel, you will meet your local assistant in the hotel lobby. They will provide you with all the essential information about your stay and will be available to answer any questions you may have. In the Roadbook app, you will find a curated selection of activities to enjoy during your stay in Vietnam, along with practical tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip and discover the country's rich cultural heritage.
Afterwards, you are free to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter or visit some of the city's most iconic landmarks, all of which are already marked in the app. If you arrive on a morning flight and have the afternoon free, we recommend taking a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and through the Old Quarter, following the suggested route available in the app. Alternatively, you may wish to join an evening street food tour—an excellent way to begin discovering Vietnam through its vibrant and delicious cuisine.

Breakfast. We recommend starting your day at around 9:00 AM and spending the morning discovering Hanoi. In the Roadbook app, you'll find a variety of ready-made itineraries and experiences. Our top recommendation is the Iconic Landmarks Walk, which takes you to some of the city's most famous attractions, including the Temple of Literature, the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and many other highlights. If you haven't already done so, it's also well worth exploring the Old Quarter and the area around Hoan Kiem Lake. By following the suggested route in the app, you'll wander through the famous "36 Streets Quarter," passing local markets, hidden pagodas, narrow alleyways, and elegant French colonial buildings, including St. Joseph's Cathedral and the Hanoi Opera House. The walk eventually leads to the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, with several recommended cafés along the way where you can stop for a break. For lunch, you can choose one of the restaurants recommended in the app or follow the "Bun Cha, Caramel & Coffee" food itinerary. This route introduces you to three local favorites: a traditional restaurant serving Bun Cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), a small eatery where you can enjoy the city's famous caramel flan while sitting on simple stools, and a charming café and art gallery housed in a colonial villa, featuring works by local artists. These venues are often busy because they are popular with Hanoi residents—making them all the more authentic.
In the afternoon, you can continue sightseeing by choosing from the attractions suggested in the app according to your interests. If time permits, we highly recommend visiting the Vietnam Women's Museum, one of the city's most engaging and thoughtfully curated museums. To get around Hanoi, you can explore on foot, take a taxi, or enjoy a traditional cyclo ride—a charming and relaxing way to experience the city's vibrant streets.

***OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES*** (see supplements)
Adventure Through the Alleys on a Minsk Motorcycle: your Minsk motorcycle and driver will be waiting for you directly outside your hotel, ready to take you on a unique experience aboard this iconic Soviet-era motorbike. Seated on the back, you will ride through hidden alleys and side streets, discovering lesser-known corners of Hanoi far from the usual tourist routes.
The journey will lead you through an authentic urban maze, weaving through narrow alleys, local markets, and lively residential neighborhoods. You will have the chance to interact with local residents, observe everyday life, and discover the most authentic — and sometimes even quirky — side of the Vietnamese capital.
During the tour, you will visit: the vibrant flea market area, a remote neighborhood with a special encounter with a local resident, and the city’s main iconic landmarks, before reaching the peaceful West Lake, where you can enjoy some traditional Hanoi dishes.
The return journey will take you across the historic Long Bien Bridge, where you will have time to take photos and admire the urban scenery. Throughout the experience, you will sample a selection of traditional Vietnamese specialties, from local snacks to the famous egg coffee, along with other typical beverages. (Meals included: snacks + lunch or dinner. Duration: 4h – 4h30. Available times: 08:00 – 12:00 / 12:30 – 16:30 / 17:00 – 21:30).

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In the afternoon, you will visit the fascinating Temple of Literature, widely regarded as Vietnam's first university. Founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, it was transformed six years later into an educational institution reserved for royal princes, the sons of noble families, and high-ranking mandarins. In 1802, when the capital was moved to Hue, Emperor Gia Long also relocated the National University. As you stroll through the peaceful, tree-lined paths of Van Mieu Park, you'll admire the elegant traditional architecture and the serene atmosphere of this remarkable historical site. Be sure to look out for the 82 original stone stelae (out of the original 116), each engraved with the names of successful scholars from Vietnam's imperial examinations. Your tour then continues with an immersive experience that allows you to discover Hanoi through the eyes of a local. Enjoy a 45-minute ride aboard a traditional cyclo (pedicab) through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. You'll travel through the famous "36 Guild Streets," a living museum where artisans and merchants still sell their traditional goods, including ceremonial objects, pipes, silk, handmade paper, fans, lacquerware, leather products, furniture, carpets, and much more. The excursion concludes with a leisurely walk around the romantic Hoan Kiem Lake, followed by a visit to the beautiful Ngoc Son Temple, set on a small island and connected to the shore by an elegant red wooden bridge—one of Hanoi's most iconic landmarks.

Breakfast. At 8:30 AM, you will leave Hanoi and travel towards Tam Coc, one of the most picturesque villages in Ninh Binh Province, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on Land." Upon arrival in the late morning, you will leave your luggage at the hotel, where your driver will be waiting to take you to the bicycle shop to collect your mountain bikes. If you choose to explore the area on two wheels, hop on your bike and begin your adventure through breathtaking landscapes of towering limestone karsts and lush green rice fields. A cycling route has already been uploaded to your Roadbook app—simply follow the GPS track to visit the region's main attractions, including the beautiful Bich Dong Pagoda, while also discovering hidden corners away from the usual tourist trails. The app also includes recommendations for optional rowboat tours and other activities. If you would like to extend your ride, it will guide you to additional highlights such as Thai Vi Temple and the famous Hang Mua Viewpoint, where you'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
At the end of your cycling tour, you will return your bicycle to the shop, where your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

Breakfast. In the morning, you will depart by road for Halong Bay, arriving around midday. Upon arrival, you will board your cruise and begin an unforgettable journey through one of Vietnam's most iconic natural wonders. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Halong Bay is renowned for its spectacular seascape of towering limestone karsts rising dramatically from calm emerald waters. More than 1,900 islands and islets, blanketed in lush tropical vegetation, emerge like natural sculptures from the sea, creating a landscape of extraordinary beauty.
Lunch and dinner will be served on board as your cruise sails past hidden caves, peaceful coves, and breathtaking scenery, offering plenty of opportunities to admire this unique environment.
Please note: An English-speaking cruise host is available on board to assist all guests. The cruise itinerary may be adjusted due to weather conditions or instructions from the local authorities.

In the morning, depending on the season, you will have the chance to admire the sunrise reflected on the aquamarine waters of the bay — a moment of calm and beauty not to be missed. The cruise continues for the rest of the morning, amid evocative landscapes and spectacular views. Disembarkation is scheduled for around 11:00 am. From here you return to Hanoi, crossing the countryside of the Red River delta, dotted with lush rice paddies and rural villages. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for the direct flight to Hue, the ancient imperial capital. On arrival, you are welcomed by the driver and transferred to your hotel in Hue.

Breakfast. Several self-guided itineraries are available in the app, allowing you to discover Hue and its main landmarks at your own pace. You can choose to explore the city on foot, by bicycle, or by taxi, depending on your preferences. We recommend spending the morning visiting the Imperial Citadel, one of Vietnam's most fascinating historical sites. Easily accessible on foot, by taxi, or by bicycle, the Citadel is an impressive fortified complex covering an area of more than 10 square kilometers. Inspired by the French Vauban fortifications, it is divided into three main sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden Purple City). To make your visit easier and more enjoyable, the app includes a guided route through the Citadel, with all the practical information you need to navigate the site, including entrances, exits, key areas, parking, and more.
In the afternoon, you are free to relax at your hotel or continue exploring the city. If you would like to learn more about the history of the ancient kingdom, we recommend visiting one or more of the Nguyen emperors' royal tombs. These can be reached by bicycle or conveniently by taxi. The most interesting tombs are highlighted in the app, with detailed descriptions, practical information, and historical insights. You can also filter the sites according to your interests—for example, choosing the most scenic, the least crowded, or the one closest to Hue's city center. All the details and suggested itineraries are available directly in the Roadbook app. Please note: the bicycle will be collected from your hotel at 6:00 PM.

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Your culinary adventure begins aboard a traditional cyclo, as you cross to the opposite bank of the river to discover the authentic flavors of Hue. Your first stop is a hidden local restaurant tucked away in a quiet alley, where you'll sample some of the city's most beloved specialties, including Banh Beo, Banh Nam, and Banh Ram It—delicate rice cakes served in a variety of light and flavorful styles. You'll then continue along the walls of the majestic Imperial Citadel to your next stop, where you'll taste one of Hue's signature dishes: Banh Khoai, a delicious crispy Vietnamese pancake served with a rich and aromatic local dipping sauce. Crossing another beautifully decorated bridge, you'll gradually leave the Citadel area behind and venture into a less-visited neighborhood. Here, you'll stop at a well-known local restaurant to enjoy the famous Bun Bo Hue, one of the city's most iconic dishes: a generous bowl of rice noodles with beef, fresh herbs, and a fragrant, mildly spicy broth. To end the experience on a relaxing note, your final stop will be a riverside café overlooking the Perfume River, the perfect place to unwind with a traditional Vietnamese drink while taking in the beautiful scenery. Duration: approximately 3.5–4 hours.

Breakfast. At 8:30 AM, you will leave Hue with your private driver and travel along one of Vietnam's most spectacular scenic roads. The journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, with stunning views over the bay and the South China Sea, making it a truly memorable experience.Upon arrival in Hoi An, the rest of the day is yours to begin exploring this charming town at your own pace. We recommend reaching the Ancient Town by taxi or by using the bicycles provided by your hotel. Once there, wander through the narrow streets of the historic center on foot, discovering a fascinating maze of historic buildings, temples, traditional craft shops, and centuries-old wooden houses. In the app, you will find all the practical information you need, including where to park your bicycle, where to sample Hoi An's best local specialties, and the most charming rooftop terraces and cafés where you can relax with a refreshing drink. To gain a deeper understanding of the town and its rich history, you may wish to purchase the Ancient Town entrance ticket, which grants access to several of Hoi An's main attractions, including historic houses, assembly halls, museums, temples, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. All of the city's most important landmarks are already marked in the app, complete with historical and cultural information to enrich your visit.

Breakfast. Free day to continue exploring Hoi An and its surroundings. If you wish, you can follow the cycling itinerary uploaded on the app, or explore on foot or by taxi, according to your preferences. At 8:00 am the mountain bikes will be delivered directly to your hotel: you can then start your tour independently, setting off from the old town and quickly immersing yourself in the peaceful Vietnamese countryside. The route takes you through verdant rice paddies, fishing villages and old brick kilns, offering an authentic glimpse of local rural life. Along the way, make the most of the stopping points marked on the map for a coffee break or a refreshing drink, and to enjoy the tranquillity of this area still little frequented by mass tourism. The return to Hoi An is also by bicycle, crossing the great Cua Dai bridge, from which you can admire a splendid view over the surrounding countryside and the river. The rest of the day is entirely at your disposal: you can relax at the hotel, go shopping in the old town or, weather permitting, spend a few hours on An Bang beach, easily reached and marked on your map.

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Fishing and basket-boat adventure: this morning you set off for an authentic experience of the nature and local culture of central Vietnam. The tour begins with a pleasant 45-minute cruise along the Thu Bon river, until you reach the port of Cua Dai, near its mouth. From here you board a "thung chai", the traditional round bamboo boat used by local fishermen. The name, which literally means "basket-boat", comes from its curious shape resembling an upturned nutshell. It can hold up to 5 people and is perfect for exploring the narrow channels of the flooded forest, allowing an immersive and eco-friendly experience in the peaceful Vietnamese countryside. During the excursion, you will also have the opportunity to try your hand at steering the boat, using the typical circular paddle movement. Keeping your balance is not easy… but the fun is guaranteed! As a reward for your adventure on the water, you will be welcomed by a local fishing family to enjoy a traditional lunch, prepared with fresh ingredients and according to the area's typical recipes. (Lunch included. Total duration: approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes).

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Practical cookery class in Hoi An: immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Hoi An with an experience combining discovery, a boat trip and authentic flavours. Accompanied by your expert chef, you begin the day at Hoi An central market, where you will learn to choose and haggle for fresh ingredients directly with the local vendors. An excellent opportunity to get to know at first hand the ingredients that make Vietnamese cuisine so unique. After the market, you board a private boat for a short and relaxing cruise along the river, until you reach the restaurant set on its banks. Here you will be welcomed by an extraordinarily friendly team with a welcome drink. Under the attentive guidance of your chef, the hands-on cookery lesson begins, during which you will try your hand at preparing some of the most emblematic dishes of Vietnamese cuisine. The atmosphere is convivial and engaging: you will have plenty of time to learn, ask questions and enjoy yourself. Once the dishes are ready, you sit down at the table to savour the fruit of your labour, in an experience that brings together taste, culture and conviviality. (Duration: approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Available times (non-private lesson): 08:15 – 13:00 / 09:30 – 14:15 / 11:00 – 15:30. Meeting point: Hai Cafe, 98 Nguyen Thai Hoc street, Hoi An, contact the local assistant to arrange the transfer).

Breakfast. Your driver will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby to take you to Da Nang airport, in time for the direct flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). On arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and a little time to settle in, you have the rest of the day free to begin exploring the former French colonial capital. Among the city's main points of interest we suggest: the Old Post Office, an elegant building designed during the French Indochina period, Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior visit), the lively Chinatown of Cholon, and the famous Ben Thanh Market, a local landmark where you can find everything: shoes, accessories, jewellery, handicrafts, spices, flowers, typical products and several local restaurants. As always, you will find further information and suggested itineraries within the app.

***OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES*** (see supplements)
Cu Chi Tunnels Visit: You will depart for the famous Cu Chi site, located approximately 75 km from Ho Chi Minh City, to discover one of the most symbolic places in Vietnam’s contemporary history. Originally hand-dug by the Viet Minh during the war against the French, the tunnel complex was later expanded throughout the Vietnam War, eventually reaching an impressive length of over 200 kilometers and a depth of 3–4 meters. These underground tunnels formed a true invisible city, complete with meeting rooms, hospitals, kitchens, storage areas, and defensive positions. The visit begins with an introductory documentary illustrating life inside the tunnels and the harsh conditions of the war during the 1960s and 1970s. Afterwards, you will explore some of the underground passages, so narrow that only one person can pass through at a time, and discover the sections that remain accessible today. At the end of the tour, you will have the opportunity to taste a local specialty commonly eaten during wartime: boiled cassava (khoai my luoc), a simple dish rich in historical significance. After the visit, you will return to Ho Chi Minh City.

(Transportation: 75 km – approximately 2 hours each way. Duration of the site visit: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Please note: the tunnel visit is not recommended for claustrophobic individuals.).

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Ho Chi Minh by Night on a Vespa: In the early evening, your vintage Vespa driver will pick you up directly from your hotel. Comfortably seated on the back of the Vespa, you will begin your discovery of Saigon at dusk, when the city comes alive with energy and excitement. Your first stop will be an elegant rooftop venue, where you can admire the sunset while enjoying snacks and drinks. Afterwards, you will ride through the lively streets of Saigon, stopping to sample fresh seafood and the famous Banh Xeo, the crispy traditional Vietnamese pancake. The tour will end at a vibrant bar, where you can enjoy a drink, listen to contemporary live music, or even dance, before being escorted back to your hotel.
(Included in the tour: local meals (seafood and Banh Xeo) and drinks. Duration: 4 hours, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Services included: Vespa, experienced driver, English-speaking tour guide, helmets, rain ponchos, entrance tickets, cold water, food and drinks at designated stops, and hotel transfers within Saigon. Not a private excursion).

Breakfast. At the locally indicated time, transfer to the airport only with a driver, without assistance. End of the tour.

***OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES*** (see supplements)
Visit the Mekong Delta: Today you will immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Mekong Delta, beginning the day with a scenic sampan ride from a fishing village along the Tien River. You will cruise among the islands of Long, Lan, Qui, and Phung, each with its own beauty and distinctive character. After crossing the river, you will continue along small countryside paths to reach the home of a local family. Here, you will meet a farmer and learn about the traditional methods used to cultivate tropical fruits and vegetables. You will also have the opportunity to taste fresh fruit together with your host family. The journey then continues to the Ben Tre region, the heart of coconut production, where you will board a Xe Lam (a traditional three-wheeled vehicle) to visit a local handicraft workshop. You will discover how coconut candies and rice liquor are made, while enjoying a cup of warm honey tea. Back on the boat, you will cruise through the narrow canals before continuing your exploration with a short bicycle ride or a walk through the tropical orchards, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Delta. In the late afternoon, the sampan will take you back to My Tho, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Ho Chi Minh City.
(Duration of the bicycle ride: approximately 15 minutes. Transfer: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho, 70 km / approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes each way).