Vietnam: Experience Culture & Landscape

Your Vietnam journey begins in the capital Hanoi – a fascinating metropolis where colonial facades, centuries-old temples, and the vibrant life of the old town alleys harmoniously meet. Among steaming street kitchens, colorful markets, and quiet pagodas, you will feel the unmistakable character of old and new Vietnam at every step.

Whether you visit the historically significant Temple of Literature, observe the lively hustle and bustle in the creative districts, or simply let yourself drift through the maze of alleys – the city has new discoveries waiting around every corner. By the shore of Hoan Kiem Lake, you will find a moment of peace in the bustling everyday life before the day ends pleasantly with freshly prepared regional specialties and a sociable evening in the old town.

After the vibrant hustle and bustle of Hanoi, you reach the quiet, almost magical expanse of Halong Bay. On board an elegant ship, you glide carefully through the emerald green water as the world-famous backdrop of majestic limestone cliffs, small fishing villages, and hidden coves silently passes by you.

Enjoy the time swimming, paddle a kayak through hidden caves, or simply relax with a cool drink on the spacious sun deck. In the evening, the boat seeks a sheltered anchorage in a quiet lagoon. With an excellent dinner under the open sky and the gentle rocking of the waves, you end this unforgettable day amidst one of the most fascinating natural wonders of our planet.

Ninh Binh is rightly referred to as the "Halong Bay on land" – a wonderfully peaceful region where monumental karst formations majestically rise from the lush green rice fields. On a traditional, silent boat ride through the Tam Coc Valley, you glide gently past steep rock walls and dive into mystical cave systems that open exclusively from the water.

For an unforgettable panoramic view, the climb to Mua Cave is worthwhile, from where the eye can wander far over the wide, lush green plain. Nearby lies Hoa Lu, the historically significant former capital of Vietnam, which today invites you as a quiet, powerful place to linger. An absolute highlight is a relaxed bike tour in the late afternoon: When the soft, golden light rests over the fields, and life along the riverbanks moves leisurely past you, the Vietnamese countryside idyll is perfect.

The idyllic valley of Mai Chau reveals to you a wonderfully untouched, rural Vietnam. The landscape is characterized by gently rolling rice fields, dense bamboo groves, and the traditional stilt houses of the ethnic minorities living here.

On a relaxed hike or bike ride, you follow narrow paths through the green fields and visit remote villages. Often, spontaneous, heartfelt encounters with the people in their everyday life occur – whether with weavers at their traditional wooden looms or families working together in the fields. As the day comes to an end, a deep, soothing silence descends over the wide valley, and while you enjoy regional delicacies under the open sky, you only hear the gentle chirping of the crickets.

Recommended hotel: Avana Retreat, Mai Chau

Hoi An welcomes you with a sea of vibrant colors, dreamy alleys, and a pace of life that is noticeably slower than in the rest of the country. The historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enchants with its characteristic, yellow-painted merchant houses, traditional temples, colorful markets, and small, hidden workshops. This lively little town can be wonderfully explored on foot or during a relaxed bike ride while the scent of fresh jasmine and herbs wafts through the streets.

Immerse yourself in the creative flair of the city: Let one of the renowned artisans make you a tailored garment or leisurely browse through the small galleries and studios. Hoi An is also considered the absolute heart of Vietnamese cuisine. The offerings range from legendary street kitchens serving the local noodle specialty Cao Lau to stylish modern venues with creative fusion cuisine in idyllic courtyards.

In the afternoons, the nearby palm-fringed sandy beaches tempt you for a refreshing pause by the sea. However, the true highlight awaits you after sunset: As dusk falls and thousands of colorful silk lanterns illuminate the alleys and the river, Hoi An transforms into a deep romantic, magical sea of lights that you will not forget quickly.

The crowning finale of your Vietnam journey takes you to one of the most exclusive and untouched coastlines of the country. The spectacular luxury resort Six Senses Con Dao – or alternatively Six Senses Ninh Van Bay situated in a hidden rocky bay – creates the perfect backdrop for complete tranquility, relaxation, and first-class comfort in harmony with nature.

Your day begins in your private villa overlooking the endless turquoise sea, accompanied by the gentle sound of the waves. The coming days are entirely yours: Let your soul unwind with holistic wellness rituals at the world-renowned spa or find your center during a yoga session under palm trees. Anyone who wants to be active can explore the crystal-clear water while snorkeling, glide with the kayak through sheltered bays, or take a boat trip to the surrounding natural paradises. In the evening, the sky above the sea turns warm golden hues. You sit on your private terrace, enjoy the gentle sea breeze, and feel in complete tranquility how this unforgettable journey concludes perfectly.