Vietnam & Cambodia

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc, 14 mi.(22km) + 6mi. (10km)
Day 3: Tam Coc - Ha Long Bay 
Day 4: Insel Trà Bản - Bai Tu Long Bay, 16 mi. (25 km)
Day 5: Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay (Kayak-day) 
Day 6: Cát Bà Insel - Viet Hai Village, 13 mi. (20 km)
Day 7: Cát Bà Insel - Hai Phong - Hoi An
Day 8: Hoi An - Tra Que - Hoi An, 11 mi. (17 km)
Day 9: Hoi An - Hue, 12 mi. (20 km)
Day 10: Hue, cycle tour approx. 8 mi. (13 km)
Day 11: Huế - Hồ Chí Minh City - Mekong Delta, 12.5 mi (20 km)
Day 12: Mekong Delta: Cái Bè - Islands of Vĩnh Long und Can Tho, 19 mi (30 km) 
Day 13: Cần Thơ - Hồ Chí Minh City, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 15: Departure 

All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change sometimes without prior notice. Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Arrival at Hanoi Airport. A shuttle bus takes you to your hotel in the heart of the old quarter of Hanoi. Despite the three million inhabitants, Hanoi offers a rural and traditional atmosphere. The historic old town district is considered one of the best-preserved in Southeast Asia. The colorful and bustling streets contribute to the Asian flair. Take a walk through the streets and in the afternoon visit the famous water puppet theater, a traditional Vietnamese form of art. 
Today, get to know your fellow travelers during dinner. Overnight stay at the hotel. (D)

Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh (Van Long) - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc, 14 mi./22km + 6mi. (10km)
By shuttle bus, you are transferred in the direction of the rural province of Ninh Binh, from which you begin your first cycling tour along with vibrant green rice fields to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam. After exploring the fascinating historical site with its well-preserved relics of past dynasties, you continue pedaling through Vietnam's most spectacular landscapes. Along the way, you stop in the quaint village of Trang An Farm where you are able to try some local specialties for lunch. After lunch, you continue by bike for a few kilometers to Tam Coc with the most spectacular view of limestone karst peaks looming out of serene rice paddies. It is here you will leave your bikes and board a traditional rowboat, taking you to the heart of a hidden valley. The last activity for today is a visit to a local bird sanctuary. Every evening the flock of birds returning to their nests is a spectacular sight. Overnight stay at the hotel in Tam Coc. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Tam Coc - Ha Long Bay 
After breakfast, your shuttle bus transports you to Ha Long Bay, where you will board the traditional Vietnamese wooden junk to enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.  Your first voyage on the boat will be through the impressive island world of Ha Long Bay with its bizarre rock formation. In the afternoon there is an opportunity to visit one of the numerous caves, which were formed in the course of the millenniums. Let your imagination run wild in the formations of stalagmites and stalactites as well as the crudely shaped cavern walls where creative thinking will bring the subterranean chambers to life. In the afternoon, you are able to take part on a guided kayak tour of a local lagoon around which, with a bit of luck, you will be able to see some wild monkeys at play. If you are keen to join, you may walk up to the summit of Ti Top Island to catch the panoramic view over Halong Bay or visit one of the numerous caves, which were formed in the course of thousands of years. We spend the night on anchor. You spend the night anchored here. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Insel Trà Bản - Bai Tu Long Bay, 16 mi. (25 km) 
After an early breakfast, we navigate our way to the island of Tra Ban, a unique place untouched by modern-day tourism. The island offers us an insight into the earlier, traditional life of the island inhabitants; as if time had stood still. A common sight is the Vietnamese water buffaloes grazing as we pass, we may even come into conversation with one of the local farmers tending to their fields who greet us with their kind smiles. For lunch, we enjoy a relaxing picnic together. In the afternoon, the hydrofoil will take us back to the pier where our junk awaits us. A relaxing cruise through the island world of Bai Tu Long Bay tops this eventful day off. Enjoy an evening under the stars, on anchor. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay (Kayak-day) 
This morning you disembark the Junk with your baggage and take a transfer boat to Lan Ha Bay.  In the afternoon, you are able to take part in a guided kayak tour of a local lagoon around which, with a bit of luck, you will be able to see some wild monkeys that live on steep rocks with lush vegetation. Occasionally their curiosity will bring them down to the shore. Today’s beach destination is beautiful beyond imagination. After lunch and a lengthy relaxing swim break in the emerald green waters, your kayak tour will take you past floating houses to Cat Ba, the next destination. A short transfer takes you to a beautiful resort, where the evening can be enjoyed on the hotel’s very own sandy beach or at the pool. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Cát Bà Insel - Viet Hai Village, 13 mi. (20 km)
Early in the morning, a transfer will bring you to a small dock from which you will travel by boat for about one hour to yet another small jetty. From here you will start a cycling tour through the national park of the island to a small tribal village of the Viet Hai minority. Parking the bikes here, a guided walk will take you through the protected old-growth forest where the wild, unspoiled nature rules. The aim is to reach the highest peak of the island which, on a good day, offers breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay and the rest of the island. After the walk, a bike tour will take you back to the boat for navigating back to Cat Ba City. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Cát Bà Island - Hai Phong - Hoi An
After breakfast, a taxi boat will transfer to Hải Phòng where a bus waits to transfer to the nearby airport from which the flight to Đà Nẵng departs. On arrival, a short transfer with the shuttle bus will bring you to your Hotel Resort in Hội An. Here you are able to relax in the river-side palm tree gardens of the hotel before your stroll through the picturesque old town of Hoi An, with its wooden-front houses, the Japanese-covered bridge, and a likely market. Overnight stay at the hotel in Hoi An. (B,L)

Day 8: Hoi An - Tra Que - Hoi An, 11 mi. (17 km)
Today you will have the opportunity to observe the daily life of the local farmers. In the morning, the cycling route leads to Tra Que - a small village in the suburban area of Hoi An. The name of the place originates from a sweet-scented vegetable often used by the locals to spice up their meals. Your host will invite the group to prepare the meal together and will explain this local delicacy. The afternoon is yours to plan and explore. A stroll through the picturesque old town or a relaxing afternoon bathing at the white beach of Cua Dai, or at An Bang Beach could be one of the possibilities. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hoi An. (B,L)

Day 9: Hoi An - Hue, 12 mi. (20 km)
After a late breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and will make your way, first by bike and then by bus to the former imperial city of Hue. En route, there is a brief stop (incl. lunch) at the Cloud Pass, the weather line between North and South Vietnam. Afterward, a short stopover on Lăng Cô Beach is scheduled, and if weather conditions allow you can stay for a refreshing swim, before continuing back to Huế. On the way, you have the chance to visit one of the UNESCO protected kings' tombs of the former Nguyen dynasty, located on the outskirts of Hue. After checking into the hotel the evening offers leisure time to explore the city for yourself. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hue. (B,L)

Day 10: Hue, cycle tour approx. 8 mi. (13 km)
This day is dedicated to the old imperial city of Huế, situated between rolling hills and rice fields along a bend in the Perfume River. The spiritual heart of Vietnam beats here, with more than 300 temples and pagodas. In the morning you visit the rambling citadel, which once was reserved for the emperors of the Nguyen-Dynasty as well as the Thien Mu-Pagoda, the cradle of Buddhism in Vietnam. After lunch in one of the regionally typical restaurants, you head back to the hotel to prepare yourself for the afternoon’s cycle tour. It is time to leave city life behind and to explore the rural surroundings of the city Hue. You will also have the chance to take part in a small cooking workshop, guiding you through the process of making a local dessert. You return to Thien Mu Pagoda, passing small water channels and rice fields. The evening can be spent as you wish with plenty of time to explore the lively center of Huế. At 9:30 pm the transfer bus takes us back to the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hue. (B,L)

Day 11: Huế – Hồ Chí Minh City– Mekong Delta, 12.5 mi (20 km)
After breakfast, catch a morning flight to Hồ Chí Minh City with a subsequent transfer to Ben Tre, where you check in on board the boat. Sail along the Mekong Delta in the direction of Cái Bè. During the short trip, cruise along the Mekong Delta where you enjoy the flourishing nature and observe the river life of the locals. North from Ben Tre, set off on our first bike tour in the region before returning to the boat for lunch. The boat cruises to the small island of Nau Hiep for a second bike tour. Along the way be sure to take the opportunity to try exotic fruits and be astonished by various local handcrafts. Afterward, the junk takes you for a sunset sail towards Cai Be, where you spend the night on anchor. (Meals: B, L, D)

Day 12: Mekong Delta: Cái Bè – Islands of Vĩnh Long und Can Tho, 19 mi (30 km) 
After breakfast, cruise back to Cai Be Island where you explore the island by bike in the shade of the abundant palm trees. Along the way, stop at a local family-run business to receive a demonstration on how sweets are made from coconut and crispy rice. After a replenishing lunch on board, a small excursion boat takes you on an adventurous cruise through narrow channels towards Vinh Long. The small island of Binh Hoa Phuc is the green pearl of Vinh Long City. Take a scenic cruise by sampan, a rowing boat, along channels shaded by coconut trees. On arrival in Vinh Long, board a bus which takes you the short distance to Can Tho where you check into the hotel and spend the night. (Meals: B, L, D)

Day 13: Cần Thơ – Hồ Chí Minh City, 19 mi. (30 km) 
Early in the morning, a boat trip takes you to a local Cai Rang floating market, one of the busiest floating markets in Southeast Asia. Here you’ll capture some excellent photos of the vibrant colors and culture on the river. The boat takes you back to the hotel for breakfast.
A shuttle then takes you out of town where you’ll start your bike tour on natural dirt roads through local villages, orchards, and canals for a truly scenic experience of the Vietnamese countryside. On the way back to Saigon, stop for lunch before arriving at your hotel in Hò Chí Minh City. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hồ Chí Minh City. (Meals: B, L)

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, former Saigon, is the Boomtown and the modern center of Vietnam. On a guided city tour, you will learn about the growing megacity, the town hall, the cathedral Notre Dame - a stunningly massive red-bring edifice with twin spires, the main post office, and other important sights which characterize the city’s history. Your day could end, if you would like, shopping with the crowds in the Benh Thanh Market. You will enjoy a farewell dinner this evening with your fellow passengers and all travel guides. Overnight stay at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City (B,L,D)

Day 15: Departure 
Departure after breakfast or prolongation in Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap. (B)

On account of unpredictable wind and weather conditions as well as organizational requirements, we reserve the right to change routes with no advance notice.  All distances are approximate. 

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc, 14 mi. (22km) + 6mi. (10km)
Day 3: Tam Coc - Ha Long Bay 
Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Viet Hai Village (Cat Ba Island), 12 mi. (18 km)
Day 5: Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay (Kayak-day) 
Day 6: Cát Bà Island - Hai Phong - Hôi An
Day 7: Hôi An - Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village, 11 mi. (17 km)
Day 8: Hôi An
Day 9: Hoi An - Hue, 18 mi. (30 km)
Day 10: Hué countryside, 10 mi. (16 km)
Day 11: Huế - Hồ Chí Minh City - Mekong Delta, 12.5 mi (20 km)
Day 12: Mekong Delta: Cái Bè – Islands of Vĩnh Long und Can Tho, 19 mi (30 km) 
Day 13: Cần Thơ – Hồ Chí Minh City
Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 15: Departure 

All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change sometimes without prior notice. Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Arrival at Hanoi Airport. A shuttle bus takes you to your hotel in the heart of the old quarter of Hanoi. Despite the three million inhabitants, Hanoi offers a rural and traditional atmosphere. The historic old town district is considered one of the best-preserved in Southeast Asia. The colorful and bustling streets contribute to the Asian flair. Take a walk through the streets and in the afternoon visit the famous water puppet theater, a traditional Vietnamese form of art. 
Today, get to know your fellow travelers during dinner. Overnight stay at the hotel. (D)

Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh (Van Long) - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc, 14 mi./22km + 6mi. (10km)
By shuttle bus, you are transferred in the direction of the rural province of Ninh Binh, from which you begin your first cycling tour along with vibrant green rice fields to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam. After exploring the fascinating historical site with its well-preserved relics of past dynasties, you continue pedaling through Vietnam's most spectacular landscapes. Along the way, you stop in the quaint village of Trang An Farm where you are able to try some local specialties for lunch. After lunch, you continue by bike for a few kilometers to Tam Coc with the most spectacular view of limestone karst peaks looming out of serene rice paddies. It is here you will leave your bikes and board a traditional rowboat, taking you to the heart of a hidden valley. The last activity for today is a visit to a local bird sanctuary. Every evening the flock of birds returning to their nests is a spectacular sight. Overnight stay at the hotel in Tam Coc. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Tam Coc - Ha Long Bay 
After breakfast, we visit a hidden valley nestled in a dramatic rocky landscape and home to a Buddhist temple. Afterward, we take a four-hour transfer to Ha Long Bay, where we board a junk (a traditional wooden boat) and enjoy our lunch. Your first voyage on the boat will be through the impressive island world of Ha Long Bay with its bizarre rock formation. In the afternoon there is an opportunity to visit one of the numerous caves, which were formed in the course of the millenniums. Let your imagination run wild in the formations of stalagmites and stalactites as well as the crudely shaped cavern walls where creative thinking will bring the subterranean chambers to life. In the afternoon, you are able to take part in a guided kayak tour of a local lagoon around which, with a bit of luck, you will be able to see some wild monkeys at play. If you are keen to join, you may walk up to the summit of Ti Top Island to catch the panoramic view over Halong Bay or visit one of the numerous caves, which were formed in the course of thousands of years. We spend the night on anchor. You spend the night anchored here. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Viet Hai Village (Cat Ba Island), 12 mi. (18 km)
After breakfast, you will cruise, via a smaller boat, to the national park of Cat Ba Island. On arrival, you will begin your cycling tour to a small tribal village of the Việt Hải minority. You can then park your bike and enjoy a guided walk through the protected old-growth forest where wild, unspoiled nature rules. The destination is the highest peak of the island which, on a good day, offers breathtaking views over the island and out to Hạ Long Bay. You will hop back onto the boat and cruise east of Bo Hon Island to the so-called ‘Virgin Cave’ (Trinh Nu Cave). A visit to this cave combines the incredible beauty of Halong Bay with the folklore of Vietnamese heritage. Dinner will be enjoyed followed by overnight on the ship. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay (Kayak-day)  
This morning you disembark the Junk with your baggage and take a transfer boat to Lan Ha Bay. In the afternoon, you are able to take part in a guided kayak tour of a local lagoon around which, with a bit of luck, you will be able to see some wild monkeys that live on steep rocks with lush vegetation. Occasionally their curiosity will bring them down to the shore. Today’s beach destination is beautiful beyond imagination. After lunch and a lengthy relaxing swim break in the emerald green waters, your kayak tour will take you past floating houses to Cat Ba, the next destination. A short transfer takes you to a beautiful resort, where the evening can be enjoyed on the hotel’s very own sandy beach or at the pool. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Cát Bà Island - Hai Phong - Hôi An
After a morning visit to the vibrant Cat Ba market, you can enjoy a free morning by the beach, as you will have a late hotel checkout until 2:00 pm). A transfer will then take you to Hai Phong / Hanoi Airport for a late afternoon flight to Danang. Dinner and overnight will be enjoyed in a hotel in Hội An. Note: in the event the original flight to Danang (from Hai Phong) is canceled or changed, we will transfer guests to Hanoi to catch a connecting flight. (Meals: B, L, D)

Day 7: Hôi An - Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village, 11 mi. (17 km)
Today you have the opportunity to experience the everyday life and work of the local farmers. After breakfast, you will ride through the quiet countryside of Hội An towards Tra Que Village. The name of the area originates from a sweet-scented vegetable often used by the locals to spice up their meals: a totally new and foreign specialty! You will participate in preparing a meal with your host, who will familiarise you with the exotic ingredients. The afternoon can be spent as you wish: a stroll through the picturesque old town or a relaxing afternoon swim at the white beach of Cửa Đại or at An Bang Beach. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hội An. (Meals: B, L)

Day 8: Hôi An
You have the full day to explore (on foot) the sights and sounds of Hội An. Its narrow streets, lantern-lit storefronts, and fusion of various styles of traditional Asian architecture give it a charming feel. Two of the city’s main specialties are clothing and food. Also, don't miss visiting the Japanese Bridge and Quan Cong Temple. In the afternoon you can enjoy all the benefits of your luxurious hotel resort and end the day at the palm tree-shaded pool. Overnight at the Hotel in Hội An. (Meals: B, L)

Day 9: Hoi An - Hue, 18 mi. (30 km)
After a late breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and will make your way, first by bike and then by bus to the former imperial city of Hue. En route, there is a brief stop (incl. lunch) at the Cloud Pass, the weather line between North and South Vietnam. Afterward, a short stopover on Lăng Cô Beach is scheduled, and if weather conditions allow you can stay for a refreshing swim, before continuing back to Huế. On the way, you have the chance to visit one of the UNESCO protected kings' tombs of the former Nguyen dynasty, located on the outskirts of Hue. After checking into the hotel the evening offers leisure time to explore the city for yourself. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hue. (B,L)

Day 10: Hué countryside, 10 mi. (16 km)
This day is dedicated to the old imperial city of Huế, situated between rolling hills and rice fields along a bend in the Perfume River. The spiritual heart of Vietnam beats here, with more than 300 temples and pagodas. In the morning you visit the rambling citadel, which once was reserved for the emperors of the Nguyen-Dynasty as well as the Thien Mu-Pagoda, the cradle of Buddhism in Vietnam. After breakfast, you will enjoy a relatively easy ride toward Thanh Thuy Village. After exploring the village (with its unique architecture, temples & bridges) you will bike back to Huế where guests will eat lunch before taking a tour of the Imperial Citadel. After lunch, an extensive visit to the citadel with its “Forbidden Purple City“ will take place, which was once exclusively for the use of the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty. The evening can be spent as you wish with plenty of time to explore the lively center of Huế. (Meals: B, L,)

Day 11: Huế – Hồ Chí Minh City– Mekong Delta, 12.5 mi (20 km)
After breakfast, catch a morning flight to Hồ Chí Minh City with a subsequent transfer to Ben Tre, where you check in on board the boat. Sail along the Mekong Delta in the direction of Cái Bè. During the short trip, cruise along the Mekong Delta where you enjoy the flourishing nature and observe the river life of the locals. North from Ben Tre, set off on our first bike tour in the region before returning to the boat for lunch. The boat cruises to the small island of Nau Hiep for a second bike tour. Along the way be sure to take the opportunity to try exotic fruits and be astonished by various local handcrafts. Afterward, the junk takes you for a sunset sail towards Cai Be, where you spend the night on anchor. (Meals: B, L, D)

Day 12: Mekong Delta: Cái Bè – Islands of Vĩnh Long und Can Tho, 19 mi (30 km) 
In the morning you cross over to Vĩnh Long Island, where you will cycle under palm-shaded paths around the island. You will then continue by boat to Traon Island where you again have the opportunity to explore the surroundings by bike. Later on, enjoy the excellent cuisine on board the boat and the wonderful evening atmosphere in the water labyrinth of the Mekong Delta. You will spend the night aboard. (Meals: B, L, D)

Day 13: Cần Thơ - Hồ Chí Minh City
During breakfast, a boat trip takes you to a local Cai Rang floating market, one of the busiest floating markets in Southeast Asia. Here you’ll capture some excellent photos of the vibrant colors and culture on the river. After lunch on board the junk, a shuttle then takes you back to Hò Chí Minh City where you will overnight. (Meals: B, L)

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, former Saigon, is the Boomtown and the modern center of Vietnam. On a guided city tour, you will learn about the growing megacity, the town hall, the cathedral Notre Dame - a stunningly massive red-bring edifice with twin spires, the main post office, and other important sights which characterize the city’s history. Your day could end, if you would like, shopping with the crowds in the Benh Thanh Market. You will enjoy a farewell dinner this evening with your fellow passengers and all travel guides. Overnight stay at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City (B,L,D)

Day 15: Departure 
Departure after breakfast or prolongation in Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap. (B)

On account of unpredictable wind and weather conditions as well as organizational requirements, we reserve the right to change routes with no advance notice.  All distances are approximate. 

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner

The attractions of Angkor Wat are surely part of the world's wonders and are perfect for an extension of your Vietnam holiday. The program consists of less difficult cycle tours, some distances covered by foot, and a focus on sightseeing.  

Day 1: Flight Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap, loop tour on bike, 22 mi. (35 km)
Flights to Siem Reap are not included in the tour price but can be arranged for a supplement. See pricing. Group will meet at Siem Reap airport in the morning, followed by transfer to the hotel in Siem Reap for check-in. Booked flights arrive at approximately 9:30 am. Keep this in mind if arranging your own flights. Following check-in, there will be a cycle tour from Siem Reap to the floating village of Kompong Phluk, located on the floodplain of Tonle Sap Lake. You are able to explore this great ecosystem in canoes, listening to the calls of the macaque monkeys while observing the flora beneath the lake’s surface. Back at the hotel, you enjoy some free time before you meet again for the evening meal accompanied by a traditional Apsara dance. The night is spent in Siem Reap. (L,D)

Day 2: Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Temple Exploration, 22 mi. (35 km) 
After a nourishing breakfast, you spend the day cycling through the friendly Cambodian countryside, visiting a selection of temples along the way. The first stop is the Ta Prom Temple, commonly known as the Jungle Temple, where the mighty tree roots fight to reclaim the ruins. You continue on to the Bayon Temple and pass the twin temples, Thommanom and Chau Say Thvoda, the Victory Gate, the Lapper King, and the Terraces of Elephants on your way. A picnic lunch is enjoyed at the famous Angkor Wat temple before cycling on to Phnom Bakheng to enjoy the picturesque sunset. We spend the night in Siem Reap. (B,L)

Day 3: Siem Reap - Phnom Kulen, 31 mi. (50 km); hiking, 2 hours
Today you combine biking and hiking to explore Siem Reap and its surroundings. Leaving Siem Reap, after breakfast, you ride to Phnom Kulen following a pleasant quiet dirt road via Kravan temple, Bantey Kdei, Sras Srang, and Phnom Bok. On arrival in Rattanak Tey Pagoda, you leave your bikes and continue on foot to the top of the mountain. After 88 steps you reach Pres Ang Chup and stop for a short break. A well-earned rest gives you the strength to climb the 100 steps to big Nevena (Pres Ang Thom,) passing over the river of 1000 Linga. A picnic lunch at the waterfall replenishes you once again before returning to the pagoda where a transfer vehicle takes you back to Siem Reap. Overnight in Siem Reap. (B,L)

Day 4: Departure
Breakfast and free time until airport transfer. (B)

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner

*All distances are approximate. The above-planned itinerary is subject to change due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.

Use the opportunity to arrive one day earlier in Hanoi. Enjoy sightseeing in a bustling city with tree-lined boulevards, French Colonial architecture, peaceful lakes, and oriental temples. Please keep in mind that the first day of this pre-tour model covers some time for your journey to Vietnam as well as some spare time to enjoy the town on your own. On the 2nd day (which is as well the 1st day of your Boat & Bike Tour Vietnam) is made to show you the beauty of the Vietnamese capital on a guided tour.

1st Day (Sat): Arrival in Hanoi

Arrival at Hanoi Airport. A shuttle bus takes you to your hotel in the heart of the old quarter of Hanoi. Despite the three million inhabitants, Hanoi offers a rural and traditional atmosphere. The historic old town district is considered as one of the best-preserved in Southeast Asia. The colorful and bustling streets contribute to the Asian flair. The choice is yours today. Treat yourself to some fine food. You will find everything close to your hotel: from Vietnamese and French haute cuisine to plain but delicious meals out of little cookshops. Overnight stay in your hotel.

2nd Day (Sun): Guided tour through Hanoi (This is Day 1 of bike & boat tour)

After breakfast, your guide and your shuttle bus are ready to show you the best sights of the Vietnamese capital. On your excursion, you follow the tracks of the most famous Vietnamese person: Hồ Chí Minh. Even decades after his death he is still fondly called Uncle Hồ. We visit Hồ Chí Minh Museum dedicated to Hồ Chí Minh and the very modest cottage he used to live and work in, followed by a visit to the monumental marble and granite mausoleum where Uncle Hồ has found his final resting place. This excess is in total contrast to his life and contrary to his last wishes.

You continue with the One Pillar Pagoda, one of the best-known religious Vietnamese buildings and the Temple of Literature, known to be the first National University of Vietnam. Your guide takes you to the Museum of Ethnology after an invigorating lunch. Here you can learn about the various demographic groups, their way of living, and the different types of houses used by Vietnam’s 52 ethnic groups.

After you have visited Ngoc Son and Ba Kieu temple, a guided walk through the bustling Old Quarter, with more than 1,000 traditional houses, and sprawling Dong Xuan Market completes the sightseeing tour. Back at the hotel, you meet your fellow travelers at 5:30 pm for a short talk followed by dinner. (B,L)

Hotel
You stay at a hotel which is only a couple of minutes away from Hoan Kiem Lake in the middle of the old part of Hanoi, the same hotel of course in which you will be accommodated for the start of the main tour.