Heritage of Vietnam with Luxury Sjourney Train

Once you arrive at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our local tour guide who will assist with your hotel transfer. Enjoy the remainder of the day as you wish, and enjoy the welcome dinner at one of Hanoi’s best restaurants. Take sufficient rest so that you can enjoy the thrill, excitement, and fun in the upcoming days. Your next 2 nights at a luxury property with daily breakfast will be covered by us.

Apricot Hotel Hanoi

Apricot Hotel Hanoi is a luxurious 5-star art-boutique hotel right in the heart of Hanoi’s historic Hoàn Kiếm district. With 123 beautifully designed rooms, each adorned with original Vietnamese paintings and sculptures, it blends neo-classical style with modern comfort. You’ll enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, a minibar, and plush toiletries in every room. The hotel’s wellness offerings are excellent, as you can enjoy their Spa L’Art invites you to unwind with massages, facials, sauna and steam rooms, while the rooftop fitness centre includes cardio gear, and there’s a stunning rooftop pool with panoramic views of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Dining at Apricot is equally refined, choose from the elegant full-service “L’Artiste” restaurant, the Palette restaurant with Southeast Asian flair, or cosy up in the A’Telier lounge for afternoon tea.

Today will be an exciting day as you will get to experience a private jeep city excursion. It starts with a warm welcome at your hotel, where our friendly guide provides a safety briefing before heading out. You will be visiting the historic Hanoi Opera House. Experience the hidden charm of Hanoi as you go beyond the tourist trails to witness a maze of backstreets, dynamic local markets, and narrow alleyways. Immerse yourself in the beautiful rhythm of Hanoi life, as you witness a wide range of contrasting elements shaping this beautiful city.

Next, head for the most revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the scenic Thanh Nien Street, bounded by pristine lakes. The journey further continues to Banana Island, a tranquil haven outside the city premises. Find lush farms, try some tropical fruits fresh from the trees, and speak to locals to get a more culturally immersive experience.

The tour flows beautifully to the peaceful outskirts surrounding West Lake and the historic Van Nien Pagoda, a beautiful sanctuary. Savour a leisurely lunch with authentic Vietnamese dishes at local eateries famous for family recipes and culinary artistry.

In the afternoon, the tour further takes a scenic turn into the pristine countryside of the Red River Delta, having vast rice paddies and charming rural villages giving glimpse into the simple way of life.

Enjoy vibrant local markets and visit Co Loa, the ancient capital of Vietnam, having the historic temple of King An Duong Vuong, bringing out the stories of the nation’s rich heritage. By the evening, get escorted to a family farm to relish freshly picked tropical fruits and enjoy a nice hospitable welcome.

Also, enjoy a nice return journey to Hanoi as you witness the gorgeous landscapes unfolding along the Red River banks. Your adventure concludes with you relishing a cup of the famous Vietnam’s egg coffee.

Once done, return to your hotel. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

After breakfast, you will leave for Ha Long Bay, a natural World Heritage (designated by UNESCO).

En route, we will stop for refreshments. Enjoy a trip to Ha Long with stops to visit caves or to swim and enjoy the sunset on the sea. Enjoy dinner with delicious fresh seafood. Overnight stay onboard.

(Note: 1. The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice depending upon the weather conditions. 2. Our guide won’t escort you on board. There will be an English-speaking cruise manager taking care of all your passengers during the trip in Ha Long, accompanied by his staff.)

Enjoy your Ha Long Bay cruising to the fullest when you board and stay at this very luxurious and amazing Indochine Premium Cruise, Ha Long Bay, for 1 night in a lovely Junior Suite (and you get full board inclusion).

Indochine Cruise

Cruise in style as you take in the mesmerising beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Ha Long Bay on this special Indochine Cruise recognised for safety and customer service offered onboard. You get an elegant colonial-inspired style for the design built by the best Vietnamese craftsmanship which makes for a very cruising experience. Your meal option is also sorted with the onboard dining option where you get a variety of top-class gourmet options any time of the day. Avail seafood buffets to superb fine dining and relish various international cuisines on your voyage. As for the amenities, guests on board will have access to a nice shared lounge and TV area offering a nice cosy environment where one can gather and unwind as you watch movies and read a book. Lastly, speaking of the trust factor, Indochina Sails has 30+ years of expertise in waterways transport and has served over one million travellers since its inception.

Here, a boat will take us through marvellous areas where every islet hasa unique names as per the shape, such as the Fisherman’s Head, Turtle, the Sail, the Incense Burner Rock, and the cute Sea Dog Rock or Cock Fighting Rocks.

By noon, arrive at Ha Long Wharf, get picked up by our guide and the driver then head to Hanoi Train Station to embark on a special journey on the Journey Train. Once you arrive at the train station, get a warm welcome and be escorted to the VIP lounge.

Get an assist with your check-in ensuring a smooth transition into the world of luxury rail travel. By dusk, around 6:00 pm, get into your finest attire and join fellow travellers in the opulent restaurant.

By evening, relish a sumptuous dinner where every course offers culinary artistry served with fantastic wines or expertly mixed cocktails. Further, the train heads for a gentle departure from Hanoi.

Overnight stay on the SJourney train.

For the next 7 nights, you will be staying and travelling on The Train, SJourney - Vietnam Luxury Express Train in Double/Twin Cabin (with Full Board tour plan).

SJourney - Vietnam Luxury Express Train

Enjoy the taste of taking in Vietnam's premier luxury railway journey with SJourney. This first-class train will start from Hanoi and conclude at Ho Chi Minh City taking you through the most stunning of landscapes through the spectacular travel destinations, including Quang Binh, Hue, Danang, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, and enjoy outstanding exclusive experiences at every stop. As for the experience while you are travelling, it is nothing less than a first-class luxury experience - rest in exquisitely designed carriages and relish gourmet cuisines. The bar and the dining car are very elegant and give off very vintage vibes. An expert Sjourney chef prepares delicious dishes for the passengers, which include both Western and Vietnamese food choices. You will love the staff experience throughout the entire trip, who will often become friends and help you with anything you need for the best experience. Whether it is families or couples travelling together, there won't be any shortage of engaging moments during the entire journey. Overall, a truly amazing experience!

Good morning, it’s Ninh Binh!

Experience the splendour of Ninh Binh as you relish a nice, delicious breakfast served in the luxury confines of the train. By 8:00 a.m., start experiencing the serene ambience of Trang An’s emerald waters.

You are invited to board a sampan and navigate through a landscape recognised by UNESCO for its natural majesty with its limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Continue your journey as you will be arriving at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital.

Have your lunch in a private dining setup amidst a beautiful, breathtaking backdrop of Tam Coc’s limestone mountains. Once you are done with lunch, enjoy a leisurely pace as you go for a bicycle ride through the idyllic countryside. Take in the fresh air as you pedal past fields and villages, giving you insight into their cultural experience.

Moreover, find the hidden gems such as Thai Vi Temple and continue to Co Vien Lau, where time stands still. Admire the collection of stunning ancient houses - it's stunning Vietnamese architecture and designs. By evening, return to your train to enjoy a lovely dinner aboard. On your journey towards Quang Binh, again relish sumptuousness in complete luxury.

Start with a delicious breakfast on board as you take in the beauty of central Vietnam’s landscapes rolling past your window. Further, you are headed towards the heart of Quang Binh. You are on a journey towards Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will step aboard a boat for a pristine voyage along the Son River. Today, you further drift along the Phong Nha Cave’s subterranean river and witness the beauty of the intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites.

Find refreshment at a Jungle Oasis Journey to the lively Nuoc Mooc Spring, hidden within the lush greenery of the national park.

Relish a nice lunch surrounded by beautiful nature. You can next opt for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters or hop on for a kayaking adventure.

In the late afternoon and evening, return to the comfort of your luxurious train. Freshen up with the landscapes of Quang Binh visible differently with the setting sun. You have the option to join in for a Vietnamese cooking class to discover rich, fresh and dynamic flavours made from the locally sourced ingredients that are unique in the region. Learn various traditional cooking techniques, make dishes of your own, and relish culinary delights in a peaceful setting. Late in the evening, part farewell to Quang Binh as your train departs for Hue for your upcoming adventure.

Today, you breeze past emerald green rice fields and observe the intricate work of skilled craftsmen. Feel mesmerised by the beauty of the Perfume River and pause at the ancient royal tomb set against the backdrop of serene lotus ponds.

Witness picturesque views of the famous Perfume River as you stop by an ancient royal tomb built against the beautiful, serene lotus ponds. Enjoy the essence of Hue’s nice, elegant cuisine at a restored traditional garden house.

Step ashore to explore Thanh Tien, a village known for over 300 years of its vibrant paper flower-making tradition. You can learn this meticulous craft and learn about its significance in various celebrations and rituals and you can even try it yourself.

Next, you venture into the Ben Xuan Garden House, a place where the cultural heritage of Hue comes alive in architecture, music, and culinary delights. Appreciate the beauty of the Nguyen Dynasty through the architecture inspired by royal designs.

Feel enchanted by a nice private concert in the Ben Xuan Theatre. Lastly, relish a nice fine-dining experience at grand royal tables presented with artistry and elegance. Overnight stay in Hue.

Go ahead with a beautiful rail journey from historic Hue as you depart in the cool morning hours. The train ascends through the panoramic Hai Van Pass, where you savour a nice gourmet breakfast complemented by spectacular views of lush valleys and the stunning East Sea.

Once you arrive in Hoi An, relax in a beautiful setting surrounded by emerald green rice fields. Savour some nice, freshly brewed, aromatic Vietnamese coffee.

Next, go ahead with an exhilarating jeep adventure through Hoi An’s beautiful countryside. Venture out to Cam Kim Island and enter into a world of traditional crafts and age-old practices.

Next, you discover the knack of Vietnamese coffee roasting. You will step inside an ancestral house offering you a glimpse of the rich heritage and the beauty of Hoi An. Continue your journey to Tra Nhieu Village and embark on a nice bamboo boat ride through the lush water coconut forests which offers a stunning backdrop for your Hoi An adventure.

Relish a delicious lunch prepared at an organic farm.

By afternoon, start your exploration at the dynamic Hoi An Market. Explore stalls of silks, handicrafts, and various exotic spices. Continue your stroll through the captivating Old Town.

Arrive at the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, famous for its architectural brilliance with its lively gates, embellished rooftops. Here you will experience the captivating practice of ancestor worship as you see devotees making offerings at the family altar.

Visit the beautifully preserved Phung Hung Ancient House or its counterpart, the Tan Ky Ancient House.

Your journey concludes at the stunning Japanese Covered Bridge- here, admire the stunning carvings and paintings alongside a guide who will facilitate the deciphering of their symbolism and cultural significance. Explore the city’s famous handicraft shops and art galleries, and even explore off the beaten path and discover hidden laneways and charming local neighbourhoods.

Relish a nice onboard dinner having both Vietnamese and international culinary creations before you arrive in Nha Trang.

After enjoying a calm breakfast on the train, you begin your day in the serene province of Phu Yen, where gentle landscapes and meaningful traditions welcome you with warmth. Your morning leads you to Mang Lang Church, a beautiful, century-old landmark known for its Gothic charm and graceful presence. As you wander around its peaceful grounds, the blend of culture, devotion, and time-worn architecture creates a quiet moment of reflection.

Next, you make your way to Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village, where generations of artisans continue the delicate craft of weaving mats from rush grass. Watching their practiced movements and seeing vibrant patterns take shape offers a lovely glimpse into daily life and heritage. The soft scent of dried grass and the soothing rhythm of weaving bring a comforting sense of connection. By midday, you return to the coast for a lunch that honors the region’s rich seafood traditions, served in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

In the afternoon, you settle back into the train, enjoying the gentle scenery as it drifts by. As night arrives, you head to the dining car for a relaxed dinner, ending the day under the soft glow of evening light.

In the morning, get on a journey to pristine Ta Cu Mountain, a revered spiritual place in Binh Thuan.

Arrive at the summit and discover the architectural marvel of Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda which offers spectacular views of the city. Continue your exploration of Phan Thiet having a unique immersion into the region’s culinary traditions around 10:00 a.m., step into the intriguing Fish Sauce Museum, where you’ll find the essential Vietnamese condiment, the fish sauce’s pungent yet intriguing aroma filling the air.

Also, learn the role behind Vietnamese cuisine and why it is the soul of many dishes.

By noon, relish these flavours for a sumptuous lunch at an oceanfront restaurant. Relish a selection of local specialities bearing a distinct taste of the sea, which are expertly paired with fresh ingredients and regional culinary flair.

Have your lunch and take a train journey towards Phan Thiet and behold the enchanting White Sand Dunes. Here you will get endless photo opportunities. Further, ascend the dunes for a spectacular view of the surrounding coastline or go for an exhilarating sandboarding or quad-biking adventure.

In the evening, enjoy a historic farewell feast. You will arrive at the ancient Poshanu Tower. On a beautiful backdrop, relish your farewell dinner - dine outdoors under the soft glow as you are surrounded by the timeless beauty of the tower. Relish a sumptuous meal having the freshest seafood, local cuisines, and various dishes reflecting the culinary specialities of Phan Thiet. Part farewell to the intriguing Mui Ne region and board your luxury train.

Lastly, freshen up in your private cabin and prepare for a train journey back to the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City.

Today you board the train scheduled to reach Sai Gon station at 5:00 am. Guests will enjoy a nice breakfast till 8:30 am. At 9:00 am, check-out procedures will commence. Based on your flight timings, get transferred to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh.

Once you arrive at a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, check in your accommodation.

Have a soft break afterwards. In the afternoon, get a meet and greet with your guide and drive then begin your journey to explore Ho Chi Minh City.

Your cycle tour begins in the heart of Saigon, where you will find the magnificent Saigon Opera House which is a testament to the city’s colonial heritage. Guide through the tree-lined streets and arrive at the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. Further, head for the shady boulevards as you pass by local cafes and boutique shops reflecting the city’s modern charm. Next, you pause for a rejuvenating break at a hidden street-side stall as you relish nice iced coffee against a beautiful backdrop of urban life. Continue your journey as you visit the War Remnants Museum. Lastly, get back to the car and transfer back to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Saigon.

Enjoy an unforgettable 2-night stay at 5* Mia Saigon - Luxury Collection in a pleasant Deluxe Room, where you have bed and breakfast included in the tour plan as well.

Mia Saigon

It is hard to find a more serene urban sanctuary set in a beautiful location, such as on the banks of the beautiful Saigon River. This 5* hotel is also located close to all the happening locations, such as sumptuous eateries and stylish shopping outlets. To your advantage, the lively downtown of Ho Chi Minh City is located just minutes away from Ho Chi Minh City. The hotel features in total of 35 spacious rooms & 18 stylish suites, all of which are clean, gorgeous, comfortable and offer spectacular views of the river, pool and the surroundings. A major highlight of the resort is the stunning 25-metre pool by the river, which makes for an amazing, soul-rejuvenating leisure experience. The hotel's restaurant, Kitchen By The River, offers an equally leisurely experience and serves mouth-watering meats and chopped salads in a beautiful aesthetic setting. Also, you'd love the vibe of the gorgeous rooftop bar, which would make your holidays even more colourful. Also, the hotel spa is best in class, offering top-notch services for complete relaxation of body, mind and soul. The hotel staff are also friendly and attentive, making sure everything happens smoothly.

The day is free at your leisure at the hotel. (No services are provided within the day.)

Optional tour with additional supplement:

Mekong Delta Cruise Tour full-day.

Meet us Cai Be Jetty at 10:00 am. The crew will welcome you aboard with cold towels and a refreshing drink as the Cai Be Princess sampan sets off for its leisurely cruise towards Tan Phong Islet.

Enjoy spectacular views from a unique vantage point from the boat - endless boats big and small rowing, spectacular green landscapes, and people working.

Once you arrive at Tan Phong Islet, take a short cycling trip through the villages and fruit gardens, particularly looking for the red, spiky rambutan, a tropical fruit that is a speciality of the islet.

Make stops along the way as you visit local cottage industries where families make everything from rice paper and rice cakes to roof panels from water coconut fronds and homewares from water hyacinths.

From the islet, you will travel via rowing sampan through the serene narrow canals beach to the Cai Be Princess where you’ll continue onto the village of Phu An.

The cruise will end at Le Longanier Restaurant where the lunch is served in the elegant colonial-style village set in beautiful lush tropical gardens by the river surrounded by fruit trees.

After lunch around 2:30 pm, take a short walk along the canal towards Ba Bon Bridge to find your personal vehicle to drive you back to Ho Chi Minh City.

You can also opt for optional tours, “Mekong Delta Full Day with lunch” or “Optional tour: Evening Vespa Street Food Tour” with a minimal charge of £99 pp.

Services included:

• A 2-hour cruise on board Cai Be Princess

• English speaking guide

• Lunch at Le Longanier Restaurant, excluding beverages

• Sightseeing fees included

• Crew assistance

• Cold towels, seasonal fruits and hot tea

Have your breakfast at the hotel before you check-out. Enjoy the day at leisure before you are transferred to the airport to connect with your departure flight. End of service.