Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour

Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour

Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour

Prices

From $2,095USD

Difficulty

Guided

Hotels, Homestays, Sleeper Train, Boat

Start Your Booking

Highlights

Delight in Vietnam's robust food scene on this 14-day guided cultural adventure

Enjoy cooking classes and food tours in Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City.

Explore the floating markets, farms, villages and lagoons of rural Vietnam.

Cycle along the backroads of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s fertile ‘rice bowl.’

Cruise among the magical limestone islands of Ha Long Bay.

Dive into the delicious food scene of Vietnam on this guided food and cultural tour that takes you all over Vietnam. Get the locals view of Vietnam’s most exciting cities as well as exploring its quiet rural heartland.

This tour is packed full of local experiences that give you a real taste of Vietnamese life. Enjoy food tours, cooking lessons and demonstrations as well as visits to thriving markets - some of which are on the water! Not only will you discover interesting produce, but you will also learn where it comes from and how it is grown.

You will spend time in the exciting cities of Hanoi and Hon Chi Minh, as well as the Imperial cities of Hue and Hoi An. There is also a chance to kick back and relax on a mini cruise through magical Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, you will have the rest of the day free to explore Vietnam's vibrant capital city. Dinner is in the home of a local family. Meet them, learn about their lives and enjoy some delicious home-cooking.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Hanoi
Meals
Dinner

Day 2 Hanoi Foodie Tour

This morning you will watch a cooking demonstration by a local chef who will teach you how to make some typical Hanoi dishes.

After lunch you'll visit some of the city’s markets. Hanoi has many amazing markets where you can buy a breathtaking variety of food, clothing, and textiles and handicrafts. The markets are also great places to sample Vietnamese street food and coffee. In the late afternoon, you will be taken on a food tour of the old quarter with its bustling old commercial streets. Don’t miss the chance to sample classic dishes like Pho Bo, Banh Cuon, sticky rice and egg coffee.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Hanoi
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 Ha Long Bay Cruise

This morning leave Hanoi behind and be driven to Ha Long Bay. One of the most spectacular destinations in Vietnam, this UNESCO-protected bay is home to thousands of rainforest-covered limestone islands, creating an enchanting landscape. You will begin your boat cruise around midday. Lunch will be served as the boat sails through the bay. After lunch, you will leave the main boat and explore by sampan (bamboo boat). You will visit the Cua Van floating fishing village and see how local people manage to conduct their daily life on the water. You'll also stop at Tien Ong Cave, an ancient cave system where stalagmites have formed over thousands of years. Back on the boat, enjoy a cooking demonstration and a drink before dinner, while taking in the magical scenery.

Overnight Location
Boat in Ha Long Bay
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Halong Bay and flight to Hue

Get up early to watch the sunrise over the bay. If you wish, you can take part in a morning Tai Chi session! As the boat cruises back to the harbour, you will have the chance to take plenty of photos. You will arrive back at the harbour mid-morning and be transferred to Hanoi airport for your flight to the old Imperial city of Hue.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Hue
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 Exploring the Kim Long Village

A packed day of activities awaits you today, as you explore the countryside surrounding Hue. First, you will cycle to Thanh Toan Bridge, an 18th-century decorative bridge in the village of Thuy Thanh (8 KM). There will be time to take photos, visit the village, the agricultural museum, and the market.

Next, you’ll travel to Chuon Lagoon in Tam Giang, one of Southeast Asia's largest tidal lagoon systems. You'll explore the scenic lagoon by boat, and experience the life of local fishermen first-hand, before sitting down to a seafood lunch. Next is an easy cycle to Thuy Bieu Village. This village on the banks of the Perfume River is known for its old houses, lush shady gardens, and Thanh Tra trees. Thanh Tra is a large Vietnamese citrus fruit like a grapefruit. You will visit houses in the village and watch incense-making and silk painting demonstrations. At the end of the day, you'll be taken to your homestay in Thuy Bieu where dinner is prepared by a local family.

Overnight Location
Homestay in Kim Long Village
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Visiting highlights of Hue

Today you’ll discover more about Hue and see some of the city's most interesting sights. The first stop is the Huyen Khong Son Thuong Pagoda, a modern working pagoda set among beautiful gardens on the outskirts of Hue. Next is the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius, on the banks of the river. Hue is known for its distinctive cuisine, and lunch involves watching a demonstration of how to cook local dishes, which you can then eat! In the afternoon you'll visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue. This will be followed by a dragon boat ride down the river to watch the sunset. On the way back you'll stop by the Dong Ba Market, a typical Vietnamese market where you can pick up souvenirs and some street snacks if you’re hungry.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Hue
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7 Hoi An

After breakfast, you will set off for Hoi An. On the way, you'll stop at some scenic spots including Lang Co Beach, and the Hai Van Mountain Pass, which has spectacular views of the coastline. If there is time, you might also stop at the Cham Museum in Da Nang. Arrive in Hoi An and settle into your hotel. Hoi An is an ancient town on the Thu Bon River, known for its fantastic culinary scene and waterfront. It is also a great place for traditional Vietnamese clothing, and so if you are looking to get some clothes made cheaply by a local tailor then you can get them made here.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Hoi An
Meals
Breakfast

Day 8 Hoi An Fishing & Foodie Tour

Today is another day packed full of authentic experiences as you visit some of the farming and fishing communities outside Hoi An. See how local people sustain themselves by fishing and learn some of the traditional fishing methods. Afterwards, have a fun ride down the river in a traditional bamboo basket boat! Then it’s time for another bike ride along country roads to a village for lunch. In the afternoon you return to the city to see its photogenic temples, pagodas, and ancient houses. In the evening, dinner is early as you'll spend the evening on a foodie tour of the city sampling local specialities like Cao Lau, Com Ga and Bánh mì.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Hoi An
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Snack

Day 9 Hoi An Market & Cooking Class

Today you will get the chance to delve even deeper into the fascinating cuisine of Hoi An. In the morning you'll go on an expedition to the local market to source ingredients for the dishes you will cook later. Then you’ll take a trip down the river to a local cooking school. After being shown around the herb garden, take part in a two-hour cooking lesson. where you'll also have a go at the art of Vietnamese fruit and vegetable carving! After the lesson, sit down and eat what has been cooked! Before heading back to Hoi An, there is some time to relax and enjoy the school's swimming pool if you wish.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Hoi An
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning there is some free time to explore Hoi An. Around midday, you'll board the train or catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, South Vietnam’s authentic, lively metropolis. After checking into your hotel there will be some free time to begin your exploration of the city.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Meals
Breakfast

Day 11 Ho Chi Minh City Market & Cooking Class

It’s another food-filled day today starting with a half-day cooking class. First, scour Ben Thanh Market, HCMC's busy central market, for ingredients. The class will run from 10 AM to around 1 PM. Afterwards, there will be free time in the city to shop, explore and see the sights at your leisure. At around 5 PM, get ready for one of the most fun excursions of this tour, a night-time scooter tour of the city! You will be met by an English-speaking guide and given a safety briefing and instructions before hopping on a scooter and heading off to discover the city’s hidden corners and secret restaurants. Expect to be back at the hotel around 10 PM.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12 Biking around Mekong Delta and Can Tho

This morning you'll travel to the Mekong Delta, an area of fertile flood plains known as Vietnam’s ‘rice bowl’. You'll visit a floating market and cycle along the backroads observing the peaceful rural way of life. Stop by a factory and see how local speciality coconut candy is made by hand. After cruising down the Mekong River to Vinh Long, you will continue cycling along paths through rice paddies and orchards. In the evening there will be free time to explore in Can Tho. Head down to the waterfront where you’ll find floating restaurants and bars.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Can Tho
Distance
30-50 km of biking
Meals
Lunch

Day 13 Cai Rang Floating Market

The morning begins with a visit to Cai Rang floating market, one of the largest and most authentic floating markets in the Mekong. This is an opportunity to observe life on the Mekong River and hunt around for interesting produce, some of which you won’t have seen before! Afterwards, there will be some free time in Can Tho before you depart for Ho Chi Minh City. Celebrate your last evening in HCMC as you wish - perhaps with a special meal, or a Vietnamese folk music performance.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 14 Farewell

Depending on the time of your flight, you might be able to squeeze in some last-minute shopping before transferring to the airport for your return flight.

Overnight Location
None
Meals
Breakfast

Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour Prices and Dates

This guided tour in Vietnam is always run as a custom tour for your group only and the price always depends on the number of people in your group.

Prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room:

  • Guided Groups of 2: $2,675USD per person
  • Guided Groups of 3: $2,420USD per person
  • Guided Groups of 4-5: $2,225USD per person
  • Guided Groups of 6+: $2,095USD per person
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Accommodation on Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour

This tour includes a good balance between comfortable 2-3* hotels, homestays, boat and sleeper train. Hotels are well located, with comfortable amenities. Homestays are basic accommodation. They allow you to learn about local culture by staying with an ethnic minority family and living and dining in the traditional way.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement of $525USD to have a private room in a hotel. Contact us and we can try and match single travelers up, where possible.

Hanoi Boutique Hotel in Hanoi

Centrally located hotel in the heart of the old town with Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, laundry facilities, restaurant, spa, and health club.

Night 3

Cruise boat in Ha Long Bay

You’ll stay on a lovely cruise boat during your time on Ha Long Bay. The boat will be well-equipped, fully staffed, and comfortable.

Hue Serene Palace Hotel in Hue

This new, beautiful hotel is close to the heart of Hue City and offers all the conveniences, as well as modern décor.

Night 5

Homestay in Kim Long Village

Staying in authentic local homestays is the best way to learn about local culture and is one of the highlights of the trip!

Hue Serene Palace Hotel in Hue

This new, beautiful hotel is close to the heart of Hue City and offers all the conveniences, as well as modern décor.

Betel Garden Homestay, Hoi An

Say in a beautiful complex of Betel Garden. Surround yourself with beautiful lush gardens, beautiful villas and stunning views!

Night 10

Cabin onboard sleeper train to Ho Chi Minh

Spending a night on a sleeper train is a must-do while in Vietnam. It saves time and lets you taste an important part of Vietnamese life.

Sunland Hotel in Ho Chi Minh

This hotel has all the conveniences that you might need while staying in Ho Chi Minh. From nice rooms, to complimentary wi-fi and a nice pool area.

Night 12

Homestay in Can Tho

Staying in authentic local homestays is the best way to learn about local culture and is one of the highlights of the trip!

Sunland Hotel in Ho Chi Minh

This hotel has all the conveniences that you might need while staying in Ho Chi Minh. From nice rooms, to complimentary wi-fi and a nice pool area.

Hotels on Standard Tour

What is included in Vietnam Life and Cuisine Tour?

Meals

12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 3 dinners are included.

Accommodations

Accommodation for 13 nights along the tour.

Transportation during the Tour

Transportation is included for you and your luggage throughout the tour.

Also Included

  • English speaking tour guide
  • Entrance fees
  • Bike rental (including helmet)

Not included

  • Getting to and from starting and ending points of the tour
  • Insurance
  • Personal expenses and tips
  • Anything not stated as included

Optional Extras

  • Additional night in Hanoi before the tour
  • Additional night in Ho Chi Minh after the tour

Frequenty Asked Questions about Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour

How hard is the Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour?

We rate this tour 2/5. There is some cycling, but otherwise it is beginner-friendly. If you would prefer not to cycle alternative activities can be added.

What is the minimum age to join in the cycling trips during the tour?

The age restriction for cycling is 16. The route can be altered for younger children.

Do I need a Visa to travel to Vietnam?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.

What should I bring to the trip?

Here is a list of what is recommended to bring with you:

  • Passport
  • Change of clothes
  • Sunglasses and hat
  • Toiletries
  • Sunblock
  • Insect repellent
  • Flashlights
  • Camera
  • Personal first aid kit & medicine
  • Small VND notes for buying drinks
  • If you feel the need, you can bring along a luggage lock for your belongings.

Are meals included on Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour?

12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 3 dinners are included.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.

How do I get to Hanoi to start this tour?

You can get to Hanoi by bus or train from most of major Vietnam cities. The closest airport is Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, located 45 kilometres from central Hanoi.

Is the Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour in English?

Yes, the tour guide speaks English.

Where does the Vietnam Foodie and Culture Tour end?

The tour ends in Ho Chi Minh City.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Vietnam?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Vietnam?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to Vietnam for this tour?

The best time to travel to Vietnam for this tour is between April and August.

Reviews

All tours on 10Adventures are operated by highly vetted local tour operators and guides.

Having local tour operators and guides means you get a more authentic experience, and your booking creates jobs in the local communities you visit.

Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.

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Written Reviews

There are no written reviews yet.

54 total ratings, 0 with reviews

Prices

From $2,095USD

Difficulty

Guided

Hotels, Homestays, Sleeper Train, Boat

Start Your Booking

What travellers say

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Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews

Tour Difficulty

We rate this tour 2/5. There is some cycling, but otherwise it is beginner-friendly. If you would prefer not to cycle alternative activities can be added.


Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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