Trip plan:
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam's captivating, timeless landscapes and vibrant heritage. From the historic boulevards of Hanoi, to the tranquil waters of Ninh Binh, the hidden caves of Quang Binh, and the imperial echoes of Hue.
In the afternoon, your luxurious train journey across Vietnam begins. At 16:30 PM, your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Gia Lam Station in Hanoi. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed into the exclusive VIP Lounge, where you'll receive assistance with check-in. Around 18:00 PM, dinner is served in the elegant dining car, accompanied by carefully selected wines and cocktails. The train then sets off, crossing the historic Long Bien Bridge and offering unforgettable views of the Red River at dusk.
The day begins with breakfast in the dining car. The journey then continues to Trang An, where a traditional sampan boat will sail through picturesque limestone cliffs and lush greenery. The next stop is Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam. After returning on board, lunch is served, followed by afternoon tea, which can be enjoyed while admiring the mountain scenery en route to Vinh.
After breakfast on board, the journey continues towards Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests embark on a boat cruise along the Son River, culminating in a visit to the Phong Nha Cave, an impressive site where nature has created spectacular rock formations over thousands of years.
In the afternoon, there's time to relax in the comfortable confines of the train. In the evening, enjoy dinner amidst the unique scenery of rice fields, complete with a cooking demonstration. Guests can try their hand at preparing traditional Vietnamese dishes.
The day ends with a late train departure towards Hue.
The morning begins with a rickshaw ride through the streets of Hue and a visit to the Imperial Citadel – the former seat of the Nguyen dynasty.
At noon, the program includes a visit to the Tu Duc Mausoleum and the "Incense Village", where you can try making your own incense or traditional conical hats.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you'll return to the ship and continue your journey.
In the morning, a train journey from Hue to Hoi An takes you on a relaxing morning, enjoying aromatic coffee amidst picturesque rice fields. Upon arrival, a jeep takes you to the Au Lac Art Studio, where you can learn traditional woodblock printing techniques.
Next up is a visit to the Thanh Ha pottery village.
Lunch will be held at the home of a local family in Hoi An, giving you the opportunity to sample dishes prepared with regional ingredients.
The afternoon is spent strolling through the historic center of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site – a place full of ancient merchant houses, Chinese assemblies, colorful galleries, and the famous Japanese bridge.
In the evening, as you continue your journey towards Phu Yen, dinner is served on board the train.
The first stop of the day is a visit to the Mang Lang Church (19th century) and to a village of artisans who create rush mats, demonstrating traditional craft methods.
Lunch by the sea is a true celebration of seafood and the gifts of the ocean.
In the afternoon, return to the train for some relaxation as the train heads towards Binh Thuan. In the evening, dinner is served in the dining car.
The morning begins with a hike up Ta Cu Mountain, home to the Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. A visit to the Fish Sauce Museum then provides a glimpse into one of the cornerstones of Vietnamese cuisine and the history of this local delicacy.
Lunch by the ocean is a true feast for the senses, full of fresh, regional flavors.
In the evening, a gala farewell dinner is held at the foot of Poshanu Tower, an ancient Cham cultural monument, featuring a menu full of seafood and local specialties. After dinner, return to the train for an overnight journey to Ho Chi Minh City.
The train arrives at Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) station at 9:30 a.m., and check-out begins at 10:00 a.m. Depending on your flight time, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or Tan Son Nhat Airport.
