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Handicrafts of Hue

Crafts and trades of Hue

To discover the crafts and professions of Hue is to enter a universe where each gesture tells a story, where materials come to life in the hands of passionate artisans, and where traditions are perpetuated with authentic elegance. Just a few steps from the historic center, artisanal villages reveal an intimate atmosphere, warm, steeped in a living heritage that crosses centuries.

As soon as you enter a workshop, your senses awaken: the woody scent of freshly cut bamboo, the sweet smoke of colorful incense sticks, the steady sound of the tools that shape the material, the bright pigments of prints drying in the sun… Here, time seems to slow down to make way for patience, precision, and the beauty of manual work.

In these discreet villages nestled between hills, rivers and rice fields, each craft reveals a fabulous know-how: the conical hat light as a breath, fine ceramics with delicate patterns, bright embroideries, or the bamboo creations that testify to a humble but dazzling creativity. The artisans, smiling and generous, willingly share their techniques, their stories and the pride in preserving a precious heritage.

Exploring the crats of Hue is living a true encounter: an immersion in the daily lives of families who still shape the cultural identity of central Vietnam. It is leaving with much more than a memory – an emotion, a connection, a trace of an art transmitted with passion and respect.

Program of the visit ò the crafts and trades (1 day)

Our English-speaking tour guide meets you at your hotel in the city center around 8 a.m. and you go to discover some handicrafts of Hue.

Start by discovering the homemade production of rice noodles typical of Hue that you can enjoy in the Bun Bo and other dishes of the region.

Continue your discovery with a bamboo workshop before admiring the work of weaving the reed to make the famous conical hat and bags.

Late morning discover a local pottery workshop and explore a timeless village with its traditional houses.

Finally enjoy a lunch on the seaside and relax on the beach before returning to Hue around 4.30 p.m.

 

Price 2025 – 2026:

2 pax: 2.250.000 VND / pax

3 pax: 1.850.000 VND / pax

4 pax: 1.600.000 VND / pax

 

 

History of the conical hat of Hue – Nón Là

Timeless symbol of Vietnam, the conical hat, or nón là, crosses centuries with a grace that seems to defy time. Much more than just an accessory, it is the reflection of an identity, a way of life and a know-how transmitted with passion throughout the country – and more particularly in the region of Hué, where some of the most beautiful ones are still made by hand.

The first traces of the conical hat date back more than 3,000 years, as evidenced by the engraved drawings on the bronze drums of the Dong Son civilization. We see silhouettes wearing these elegant hats, proof that this object was already part of the daily life of ancient populations, whether they were farmers, fishermen or travelers.

In the imperial era, under the dynasties that shaped the history of Hue, the nón là was a social marker. The forms, materials and ornaments indicated status: peasants wore simple palm-leaf nons, while women of the court used more refined versions, enhanced with silk or embroidery. It is also in Hué that the famous nón bài thơ, the hat-poem is born: by raising it to the light, verses, motifs of pagodas or silhouettes of lotuses delicately appear – a subtle, poetic art, unique in Vietnam.

Its conical shape meets a need as simple as great: to protect from the hot sun, tropical rain, wind, while being light, ventilated and comfortable to wear. Traditionally made from dried latanier or palm leaves and then polished, the hat requires considerable patience. Each piece requires hours of work: selection of leaves, shaping bamboo circles, meticulous sewing with nylon thread, final polishing… A precise, slow, meticulous process, passed on from generation to generation in the artisan villages.

Even today, in the heart of the villages of Hué, artisans perpetuate this extraordinary heritage. We often see them sitting in the shade of a porch, their hands dancing with dexterity between leaves, needles and bamboo, transforming simple materials into a dazzling object, universal symbol of softness and Vietnamese elegance.

The nón là is therefore not just a hat: it is a fragment of history that one wears on their head, a gesture of love for tradition, a silent poetry that connects yesterday’s Vietnam to today’s.

Cruise on a Private Junk in Lan Ha Bay from Cat Ba – 2D/1N or 3D/2N

Cruise on a private junk in Lan Ha Bay

More preserved than its neighbor Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay reveals a wild and preserved beauty, where the sea sneaks between hundreds of karst peaks covered with vegetation. Here, no crowds or saturated sea routes: only silence, the sweetness of the sea wind and the impression of moving forward in a true natural sanctuary.

Emback on a private junk is to find the magic of old navigations: an elegant boat, a slow pace, a serene atmosphere and landscapes that unveil over the water. From the bridge, you observe the fishermen join their floating villages, the islets sculpted by time and the secret lagoons accessible only by kayak. Each cove, each detour offers a new picture, between steep cliffs, turquoise waters and small isolated beaches.

This cruise from Cat Ba or Hai Phong is much more than an excursion. It is an intimate interlude, a suspended moment where one lets oneself be carried away by the raw beauty of Lan Ha, far from the bustle and as close as possible to untouched nature. A unique way to discover one of the most beautiful bays in Vietnam, in a calm, elegant and deeply authentic setting.

Your cruise on a private junk in Lan Ha Bay

Program for 2 days and 1 night cruise

Day 1 (L, D):

Departure by minibus, around 7.30 a.m., to go to Haiphong and take the ferry to Cat Ba Island.

Embark on the junk from the harbor of Cat Ba around noon to discover the Southern region of Halong Bay then enjoy lunch amidst the limestones.

In the afternoon, relax and swim on the beach of Van Doi before a going kayaking in Bai Tra Dao or Dau Be. Admire the sunset on the junk before dinner and then then discover squid fishing.

Day 2 (B, L):

If you are an early riser, marvel at the splendor of the sunrise over the immensity of the bay..

After breakfast, visit the village of Viet Hai by bike to discover this small local village.

Come back to the boat check out and lunch then return to the harbor around 11.45 a.m. to take the ferry then road to Hanoi where you arrive around 4.30p.m.

Program for 3 days and 2 nights cruise

Day 1 (L, D):

Departure by bus around 7.30 a.m., to go to Haiphong and take the ferry to Cat Ba Island.

Embark on the junk from the harbor of Cat Ba around noon to discover the Southern region of Halong Bay then enjoy lunch amidst the limestones.

In the afternoon, relax and swim before a going kayaking in Hang Ca. Admire the sunset on the junk before dinner and then then discover squid fishing.

Day2 (B, L, D):

Wake up in the middle of the Bay and admire the sunrise. After breakfast possibility to discover the village of Viet Hai by bike or to simply sail in the bay according to your desires then walk in the Cat Ba National Park, visit the Tien Duc cave in the Park and then you arrive in a very old traditional house where you are expected for lunch with the locals.

Then, return to the boat for a kayak ride and back on the boat in the late afternoon to admire the sunset before dinner.

Day 3 (B, L):

If you are an early riser, marvel at the splendor of the sunrise over the immensity of the bay.

After breakfast, continue the cruise among the limestones and after brunch discover the fishing villages.

Then, return to the port at about 11.45 a.m. to take the ferry and then the road to Hanoi by bus where you arrive in the afternoon.

Price 2026 – Private junk of 2 or 4 cabins

Junk of 2 cabins: 2 pax: 295 $ / pax for 2 days and 1 night and 490$ /pax for 3 days and 2 nights

Junk of 2 cabins: 3 pax: 265 $ / pax for 2 days and 1 night and 430$ /pax for 3 days and 2 nights

Junk of 2 cabins: 4 pax: 255 $ / pax for 2 days and 1 night and 400$ /pax for 3 days and 2 nights

Junk of 3 cabins: 5 and 6 pax: 240 $ / pax for 2 days and 1 night and 375$ /pax for 3 days and 2 nights

Junk of 4 cabins: 6 to 8 pax: 230 $ / pax for 2 days and 1 night and 350$ /pax for 3 days and 2 nights

Supplement for English-speaking guide: 85$ for 1 night and 125$ for 2 nights

Train tickets in Vietnam

Travel by train: a local and authentic experience, buy your train tickets in Vietnam

Taking the train in Vietnam is much more than just a means of transport: it is a full-fledged travel experience, punctuated by landscapes, encounters and the charm of an old Vietnam.
From the rice fields of the Red River Delta to the mountains of the North, from the imperial cities of the Centre to the beaches of the South, the Vietnamese railway network crosses the most beautiful panoramas of the country.

Comfortable, safe and punctuated with typical stops, the train remains one of the best ways to discover Vietnam at a gentle and authentic pace.
The night trains linking Hanoi to Lao Cai (Sapa), Hue, or Da Nang allow you to travel while saving time, in a friendly and relaxing atmosphere.

At Senteurs du Vietnam, we collaborate with trusted companies such as Lotus Train and LamanTrain, recognized for the quality of their services and the comfort of their cabins.
We assist you in booking your train tickets in Vietnam, advising you on the best routes, times and comfort categories, according to your itinerary.

A train journey is the assurance of a closer, more humane and more poetic Vietnam, where each station becomes a stop full of life and smiles.

 

Regarding the tickets, we have been collaborating for many years with the companies Lotus and Laman which offer services of much better quality than the public company.

Thus, we can assist you to book your tickets at better prices.

 

  • For a train between Hanoi and Lao Cai or vice versa, count 830,000 VND per person in a 4-bed cabin

From Hanoi to Lao Cai train SP03 with a departure at 10 p.m. and an arrival at 5.55 a.m.

From Lao Cai to Hanoi, train SP4 with a departure at 9.30 p.m. and an arrival at 5.25 a.m.

 

  • For trips between Hanoi or Ninh Binh and Hue, we recommend

Lotus Cabin, train SE19 with a departure from Hanoi at 7.50 p.m. and from Ninh Binh at 10 p.m.and the arrival in Hue at 9.44 a.m., the price is 2.000.000 VND per person in a 4-bed cabin or 4.000.000 VND per person in a 2-bed cabin.

  • For trips between Hue and Hanoi or Ninh Binh, we recommend

Lotus Cabin, train SE20, with a departure form Hue at 8.54 p.m. and the arrival in Ninh Binh at 9.20 a.m. or in Hanoi at 11.40 a.m., the price is 2.000.000 VND per person in a 4-bed cabin or 4.000.000 VND per person in a 2-bed cabin.

 

Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.

Note that the schedules are for information purposes only.

For trains between Danang and Hanoi, the supplement is 100,000 vnd per ticket in a 4-person cabin and 200,000 vnd per person for a 2-person cabin.

 

The main train journeys in Vietnam

The train in Vietnam crosses the country from north to south, connecting major cities and iconic landscapes.
It is an ideal way to travel comfortably, while admiring the natural panoramas and sharing the daily life of the Vietnamese.
Here are the most popular lines with travelers.

Hanoi – Lao Cai (Sapa): the mythical northern line

One of Vietnam’s most famous routes, the Hanoi – Lao Cai line, is the gateway to the Sapa mountains.
The night train leaves Hanoi in the evening to arrive early in the morning in the north of the country, offering a peaceful night on board and a journey through rice fields and hills.

Hanoi – Hue – Da Nang: the coastal landscapes route

The line linking Hanoi to Hue and then to Da Nang is often considered one of the most beautiful railway routes in Asia.
The train travels along the central coast, crossing beaches, lagoons, mountains and fishing villages, notably between Lang Co and Da Nang, a stretch renowned for its spectacular sea views.

This route allows you to reach the imperial and cultural cities of Vietnam: Hué, former capital of the Nguyen emperors, and Hoi An, architectural jewel classified by UNESCO.
The air-conditioned wagons offer pleasant comfort, with the possibility of choosing between seat, soft berth or private cabin.

Discovery of Sapa and its surroundings – 4 days and 3 nights

Discovery of Sapa and its surroundings, between mountains, rice fields and traditions of North Vietnam

In the north-west of Vietnam, on the Chinese border, Sapa extends into the heart of a spectacular landscape of misted mountains and terraced rice fields.
This region, considered as one of the most beautiful in the country, offers an unforgettable immersion in the nature and culture of mountain ethnic groups.

Nestled at more than 1,500 meters above sea level, Sapa captivates with its grandiose views, its cool climate and its traditional villages where time seems to have stopped.
The black Hmong, red Dao, Tay and Giay perpetuate their ancestral customs, their colorful clothing and their craftsmanship, creating a fascinating cultural mosaic.

Discovering Sapa and its surroundings means walking along paths bordered by rice fields, crossing villages perched in the valleys, and sharing an authentic moment of life with the inhabitants.
Between gentle hikes, breathtaking panoramas and sincere encounters, each stage reveals the human and natural richness of North Vietnam.

Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you will learn to understand the rhythm of the mountain, agricultural traditions and local beliefs, in a peaceful, warm and deeply human setting.

Sapa is not only a destination: it is an inner travel experience, an encounter with a deep Vietnam, endearing and vibrant with emotions.

 

Progress of the discovery of Sapa and its surroundings

Day 1 – Hanoi – Sapa (D):

Departure around 2.30 p.m.by limousine bus to go to Sapa, where you arrive around 8.30 p.m. The dinner with a tasting of raw salmon from Sapa will be served at Happy Family Hotel.

 

Day 2– 13 km (B, L, D) :

Departure around 9.30 a.m. with our English-speaking guide for a hike on small mountain paths that take you to the villages to meet the inhabitants and discover the terraced rice fields (green between May and July; yellow between August and September, not cultivated between November and April). Also discover the sweet chestnut cakes, specialty of the region.

Lunch in a small local restaurant.

In the afternoon, cross the Tả Phìn valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in the region with its bamboo forest, if the season is right (from March to May) harvest strawberries before going to a family from the Red Dao ethnic group to enjoy a bath with medicinal herbs. Dinner and the night in the family.

 

Day 3 – 14 km (B, L):

After breakfast with the family, go up to the small village of Chín Séng where black Hmong and red Dao live together. Meet peasants and discover their daily activities and local life during a quiet walk in this village.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic in the countryside before visiting the salmon and sturgeon farm. Return to Sapa by car and overnight at the Happy Family Hotel.

 

Day4 – Sapa – Hanoi (B):

After breakfast departure with our driver.

Take the road to the Rong May Bridge and on the way, make a photo stop at the door of the sky that offers an incredible panorama of the region.

Then reach this 250-metre-long glass bridge at a height of 350 metres by elevator and discover the feeling of emptiness as you walk on this structure.

Go back to the hotel around 11.30 a.m. for the check out then you have time for lunch before taking the minibus to Hanoi around 2 p.m.

 

Price 2026:

2 pax: 5.800.000 VND / pax

3 pax: 5.400.000 VND / pax

4 pax: 5.000.000 VND / pax

 

Why discover Sapa?

Discovering Sapa is much more than just an excursion: it is a human, cultural and responsible experience, thought to bring travelers closer to the deep soul of North Vietnam.

Authentic human encounters

We work directly with local host families, from the Hmong, Red Dao, Tay and Giay ethnic groups, to ensure sincere and enriching exchanges.
Sleeping at home, sharing a meal, listening to the stories of the village… so many moments that turn a trip into an unforgettable memory.

Each experience is an encounter, a dialogue between cultures, a mutual discovery in respect and curiosity.

Golf Tour & trip to Vietnam of 9 days and 8 nights

Golf Circuit in Vietnam & Travel

Playing golf in Vietnam is much more than just a series of exceptional courses: it is experiencing a journey where sport becomes a way of life, and where each swing fits into a spectacular setting. Between undulating rice fields, misty mountains, peaceful lagoons and beaches bathed in light, Vietnam is today one of the most attractive golf destinations in Asia.

This golf circuit in Vietnam has been designed as a balanced experience, combining the pleasure of the game with the cultural richness of the country. The courses, designed by great international architects, offer technical and refined tracings, perfectly integrated into natural landscapes of striking beauty. Each green becomes a meeting point between sports performance and contemplation.

But the journey does not stop at the fairway. Between two parts, Vietnam reveals itself differently: historic cities, temples full of spirituality, subtle gastronomy, local meetings and moments of relaxation in carefully selected accommodations. The rhythm is fluid, harmonious, allowing time to savor every moment, on and off the course.

This tour is aimed at travelers who love golf and discoveries, those who wish to combine sporting passion and cultural exploration, in a comfortable and perfectly organized setting. An exclusive, elegant and inspiring experience, where Vietnam reveals all its diversity through one of its most refined faces.

Complete program of the golf circuit of 9 days and 8 nights

 

Day 1 | Hanoi

Our driver meets you at the airport upon arrival in the morning and then transfer to the hotel.

 

Day 2 | Hanoi | B

Enjoy a day of golf at Hanoi’s legendary Sky Lake to practice on the 18-hole Sky Course.

The SkyLake is well known as the best two times 18 hole golf course near Hanoi city with beautiful view and world class course condition. Curvy mountains and peaceful lake will be the most suitable place for you to get away from busy urban life.

Full equipment, driving range and cart with private caddies included except shoes.

 

Day 3 | Hanoi – Tu Long Bay | B, L, D

Departure by minibus from Hanoi around 8 a.m., to go to the harbor of Ha Long.

On the boat, meet the English-speaking tour guide and start your cruise with the lunch in the middle of the impressive rocky peaks of Tu Long Bay.

In the afternoon, a kayak tour will immerse you in the magnificent landscapes of the bay near Cap La Island.

At the end of the day, admire the amazing sunset igniting the bay before dinner. Then discover squid fishing after dinner or relax with some board games, perfect for a family evening.

 

Day 4 | Tu Long Bay – Hué | B, L

If you are an early riser, marvel at the splendor of the sunrise over the immensity of the bay during a Tai Chi session.
After breakfast, discover Thienh Canh Son Cave.

Come back to the boat check out and lunch then return to the harbor to go to Hanoi airport for the flight to Hue and transfer to the hotel.

 

Day 5 | Hue | B, L, D

Our English-speaking guide will meet you at the hotel around 9 a.m., to reach the port and embark on a traditional dragon boat.

Cruise on the Perfume River and let yourself be carried by the stream to the marvelous Thien Mu Pagoda.

Then, go to visit the Imperial City.

After lunch, go to the countryside of Hue to discover the history of the Tomb of Tu Duc and to walk the paths of its gardens in the middle of the bodies of water.

Then, make a photo stop at the incense village and go back to the hotel.

In the evening, we will share a dinner together.

 

Day 6 | Hue – Hoi An | B

Departure from your hotel around 9 a.m. with our driver.

Take the road to Hoi An and discover the Laguna Lang Co Golf.

The Laguna Lang Co Golf is an 18-hole championship course designed by Sir Nick Faldo.

Full equipment, driving range and cart with private caddies included except shoes.

Then, from the Hai Van Pass, contemplate the region’s sumptuous landscapes, with its lush forests and panoramic sea views before reaching Hoi An.

 

Day 7 | Hoi An | B

Leisure day in Hoi An according to the recommendations of our Travel Book.

 

Day 8 | Hoi An | B

Enjoy a day of golf at the Montgomerie Links.

From anywhere on the golf course, visitors can admire the landscapes of the area. Montgomerie Links Golf was designed in a vaulted shape to create cohesion with the local natural environment. Here, not only are visitors seduced by original green trees and sand dunes of various shapes on the coastal coast. The golf route was built to connect the heath field to the different holes according to the Links style while satisfying the levels of golfers.

Full equipment, driving range and cart with private caddies included except shoes.

 

Day 9 | Hoi An – Return flight | B

Transfer to Danang airport during the day for you return flight.

 

Price on request

 

How to book your golf tour in Vietnam

At Senteurs du Vietnam, we believe that each trip must be a unique creation, just like the one who experiences it.
Booking your golf trip in Vietnam is simple, smooth and completely personalized.

1. Contact our expert advisors

Fill out the contact form on our site or write to us directly at contact@senteursduvietnam.com.
An English-speaking advisor specializing in tailor-made trips to Vietnam will contact you within 24 hours to understand your desires, pace and priorities.

2. Let’s create your tailor-made trip together

From your request, we design a personalized itinerary, adapted to your expectations: duration, type of accommodation, exclusive activities, cultural or seaside extensions.
Our advisors share with you their expertise of Vietnam to refine each step: choice of hotels, local experiences, cruise, gastronomy, free moments…

You will receive a detailed and transparent quote, accompanied by exclusive suggestions.

Imperial Palace and Hope Center

Imperial Palace and Hope Center

In Hué, history is not only contemplated: it is felt, crossed, transmitted. Former imperial capital of Vietnam, the city deploys a unique atmosphere, marked by solemnity, poetry and sweetness. The banks of the Perfume River, the ramparts full of memory and the silent temples make up a setting where time seems suspended.

The visit to the Imperial Palace of Hue is a fascinating dive into the greatness of the Nguyen dynasty. Behind its monumental doors, elegant pavilions, majestic courtyards and finely decorated roofs tell the story of court life, imperial rituals and the refined organization of a kingdom once at the heart of Vietnamese power. Each stone, each architectural detail evokes a time when Hue shone as the political, cultural and spiritual center of the country.

But this day is not limited to the past. It continues with a deeply human encounter at the Hope Center, a place where craftsmanship becomes a vector of hope and dignity. Here, women and people with disabilities perpetuate traditional skills while building a more serene future. The gestures are precise, the smiles sincere, the exchanges full of respect and emotion.

Between imperial heritage and solidarity commitment, this visit offers a complete and nuanced vision of Hue: a city where the historical heritage dialogues with human values, where culture is lived as much in monuments as in encounters. An authentic, enriching and deeply impactful experience that gives full meaning to the journey.

Programme of the visit of the Imperial Palace and the Centre (1 day)

 

Our English-speaking tour guide meets you at your hotel in the city center around 9 a.m. and you discover Thien Mu Pagoda on the banks of the Perfume River.

Then, visit the Imperial City, UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a splendid set of monuments made of impressive walls and refined palaces.

After lunch, discover Hope Center and take part in some handicraft activities during approximately 2 hours; learn about pottery and work on the wheel; learn how to make woven baskets with recycled paper and make a ring out of recycled wire.

 

Tarif 2025- 2026 :

2 pax: 2.050.000 VND / pax

3 pax: 1.790.000 VND / pax

4 pax: 1.690.000 VND / pax

 

Hope Center: solidarity crafts and human encounters

Hope Center embodies another face of Hué, deeply human and inspiring. More than a simple workshop, this place is a space of transmission, dignity and hope. Here, women and people with disabilities find a caring environment to learn, work and enhance their skills through traditional Vietnamese crafts. Embroidery, sewing, textile work or decorative objects: each creation tells a story of patience, resilience and expertise.

The visit to the Hope Center is above all a meeting. The exchanges are simple, sincere, full of respect. We observe the precise gestures, we understand the time needed to manufacture each piece, we measure the importance of these activities in the reconstruction of lives often marked by difficult journeys. Supporting this center means encouraging a model of solidarity tourism where travel becomes meaningful.

This stop offers a rare emotion: that of contributing, on its own scale, to a positive local initiative, while discovering authentic craftsmanship, far from mass production. The Hope Center reminds us that travel can be an act of sharing and awareness, an enriching experience that connects culture, commitment and humanity.

Mekong Crossroads – 2 days and 2 nights

Mekong 2 days and 2 nights: authentic immersion in the heart of the delta

Venturing into the Mekong Delta for two days and nights is like entering a world where every gesture, every sound, every scent seems to be born from the river itself. At dawn, the dim light glides over the water palm trees, the boats sway as if to the rhythm of a slow breathing, and the villages awaken in peaceful harmony. Here, time stretches along the water, inviting the traveler to slow down, to observe, to feel.

The Mekong is not just a river: it is a living memory, a crossroads of stories, cultures and expertise. The sinuous channels reveal simple and authentic scenes of life: a fisherman who lifts his nets, children who laugh while diving from a wooden bridge, a family who prepares breakfast under the palm trees… Each moment tells the intimate relationship that unites the inhabitants to this nourishing giant.

Over the hours, your sampan glides in the silence of the morning, explores hidden arms of the river, crosses lush gardens and joins villages where the welcome is warm and spontaneous. At nightfall, the magic intensifies: fireflies sparkle, the lapping of the water becomes almost hypnotic, and the traditional house that hosts you turns into a peaceful refuge in the heart of the delta.

This fabulous stay, short but deeply striking, is a total immersion in the life of the river: a sensitive journey, intimate, vibrant, where one discovers the Mekong not as a setting, but as a living soul that continues to shape the life of those who live there.

Planning of the 2-day and 2-night cruise on the Mekong

Day 1 – Cai Be – Nha Man (L, D):

Meet us at Phu An Jetty at 10 a.m. and start with a bicycle ride around this picturesque rural area, ending up at Le Longanier Restaurant for lunch.

Then board the Song Xanh Sampan for a leisurely cruise on the busy waterways of the Mekong Delta, with stops along the way to visit an ancient house in Dong Hoa Hiep village and local cottage industries that utilize products from the Delta like rice and coconuts. As we make our way down this famous river take in the local life as you pass by fisher folk checking their daily catch and floating houses imperceivable balanced on the mighty Mekong. In the evening, the dinner is served on the boat.

 

Day 2 Nha Man – Cai Tau Ha – Vinh Long (B, L, D):

After breakfast on board, cruise towards Vinh Long along a narrow river, passing several houses on stilts to arrive at Cai Tau Ha, a quaint village. Take a stroll along the riverbank to visit a temple which makes traditional medicine from herbs or walk further into the village to see how black-smiths work.

Lunch is then served on board before another foray into a clay pot factory in Vinh long. We will then head back to our sampan to further explore the small tributaries of the river.

The last stopover before sunset is a charming outdoor market where you can see how people sell local materials such as agricultural products, farming tools and fishing tools, then stop for a visit to a Cao Dai temple.

Return on board for dinner while the Song Xanh continues its cruise towards the Hau River and overnight on board.

 

Day 3 Vinh Long – Cai Rang – Can Tho (B):

Early departure around 6.30 a.m. to visit to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market. Breakfast is served on board while the Song Xanh navigates towards the market among local barges loaded down with fruits and vegetables from the Delta. Continue cruising towards Can Tho and disembark at the Victoria’s private jetty around 9 a.m.

 

Price 2027 :

2 pax: 14.000.000 VND / pax

3 and 4 pax: 12.200.000 VND / pax

Mekong Cruise: Life on the River – 1 day and 1 night

Mekong 1 day and 1 night: Life on the river

Spending a day and a night on the Mekong river is to enter a universe where water punctuates every gesture, every encounter, every emotion. From the first moments, the river envelops you in its softness: a golden light glides over the water palm trees, the boats gently swing, the houses on stilts are reflected in a tranquil mirror. Here, time seems to slow down to make way for a simple, warm and deeply human life.

Over the hours, you discover a living, vibrant Mekong. The inhabitants prepare meals in front of their house, the children play by the water’s edge, the fishermen return with their morning catches. A sampan takes you to narrow channels, lined with lush vegetation: the river becomes an intimate path that reveals the true nature of the delta. The noises of the engine fade, only the gliding of the boat and the songs of the birds remain.

Then comes the night, a rare and precious moment. By the light of hanging lamps, the river changes face: insects awaken, the lapping of water becomes deeper, and houses light up like a discreet garland. From your traditional accommodation, you observe this unique nocturnal ballet, between absolute serenity and total authenticity.

This fabulous experience of 1 day / 1 night in the heart of the Mekong is not just a stay: it is an immersion in local life, a journey closer to the inhabitants and their daily lives. A gentle, luminous and unforgettable adventure, where the river tells its story to those who take the time to listen.

Schedule of the cruise on the Mekong for 1 day and 1 night

Day 1 – Cai Be – Binh Minh– Tan Quoi (L, D):

Start the cruise at Phu An Jetty at 10 a.m. Observe the life of the locals going about their daily activities and stop at various places along the river to discover some of the craft industries in the region, including the manufacture of coconut candy and puffed rice and an old house in the village of Dong Hoa Hiep as well as a clay pot factory.

Lunch is served on board while cruising towards Binh Minh along a narrow canal teeming with life. Enjoy shore excursions to gain insight into how the local people make a living, and stop for a visit to a Cao Dai temple.

Back to your sampan and enjoy the sunset while the Song Xanh continues its way towards the Hau River. Dinner and overnight on board.

 

Day 2 Tan Quoi – Cai Rang – Can Tho (B):

Wake up early at 6 a.m. for a visit to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market. Witness the hustle and bustle of the morning market as traders offer their wares on the waterway vying for attention from potential buyers. Breakfast is served on board while the Song Xanh navigates towards the market among local barges loaded down with fruits and vegetables from the Delta. Continue cruising towards Can Tho and disembark at the Victoria’s private jetty around 9 a.m.

 

Price 2027

2 pax: 11.400.000 VND / pax

3 and 4 pax: 9.950.000 VND / pax

Handicraft tour in Ninh Binh – Local life and know-how

An immersion in the heart of the Vietnamese countryside

A few kilometers from Tam Coc, south of Hanoi, the countryside of Ninh Binh reveals an authentic and warm Vietnam, far from the bustle of big cities.
Here, the landscapes of rice fields, canals and limestone hills serve as a backdrop for a peaceful life, punctuated by seasons and traditions.

This handicraft excursion in Tay Phu invites you to discover the rural life of Vietnam closer to the inhabitants.
Guided by an English-speaking guide, you will explore the artisanal villages that have perpetuated for generations the know-how of the country: making rice noodles, traditional weaving, homemade tofu or even wickerwork made from water hyacinth.

Each meeting is a human and cultural encounter, an opportunity to exchange a smile, a gesture or a story, in an atmosphere of simplicity and sharing.
Far from the tourist circuits, this day is an immersion in deep Vietnam, that of daily gestures and living traditions.

An authentic, enriching and responsible experience, at the heart of a preserved artisanal heritage.

Planning of the day to discover crafts in Ninh Binh

 

Départ de l’hôtel vers 9 heures avec notre guide francophone pour rejoindre le village de Tay Phu et visite du marché local. Ensuite découvrez la fabrication du Banh Chung, plat traditionnel de la fête du Tet au Vietnam.

After a lunch in a local house, meet the families who still practice the local handicrafts: making rice noodles, water hyacinth baskets, cane mats, tofu…

You will have the opportunity to discover and take part in their activities while providing them some support and additional income.

At the end of the day, go for a bicycle ride on the dam, in a peaceful setting away from the cars and among the flowers before returning to the hotel.

 

Opportunity in the morning to discover at the local market square the cathedral of Phat Diem built in the 19th century and subtly mixing Asian architecture and European architecture.

 

Price 2025 – 2026

2 pax: 2.170.000 VND / pax.

3 pax: 1.990.000 VND / pax

4 pax: 1.800.000 VND / pax

Meeting with the local artisans

Meeting the artisans of the Vietnamese countryside is to discover another facet of the country: that of manual work, patience and know-how passed down with passion.
Each village of Ninh Binh perpetuates an ancestral specialty, inherited from several generations, and thus contributes to preserving the cultural memory of rural Vietnam.

In the rice noodle villages, families have been working since dawn, between precise gestures and steam scents.
Their art lies in the perfect mastery of cooking and drying, a technique inherited from ancestors and adapted to the climate of the delta.

Tofu manufacturers embody Vietnamese simplicity and generosity: each bean is processed with care, respecting the natural cycle.
Visitors discover here the strength of collective work and the pride of a craft that nourishes local markets.

Further on, the basket-makers and weavers shape water hyacinth and raw cotton to give life to useful and decorative objects.
Their workshop is a symphony of meticulous gestures, children’s laughter and natural colors.
Some will invite you to try to weave or spin the material, for a moment of complicity and sharing.

These artisans are not content with creating: they transmit a part of their culture, a vision of the world marked by harmony and simplicity.
Through them, it is the whole authentic and living Vietnam that expresses itself, far from the standardized circuits.

At Senteurs du Vietnam, we favor this type of human encounters, respectful of local traditions and the rhythm of rural life, in a spirit of responsible tourism and solidarity.

 

Visit of Van Long

An authentic immersion in the heart of Van Long

Visiting Van Long is diving into one of the most authentic and majestic landscapes of Vietnam, far from the crowd and closer to nature. For years, we have guided passionate travelers through this unparalleled site, a true hidden treasure of Ninh Binh. Imagine yourself gliding gently on a traditional sampan, surrounded by bright karst mountains, calm water like a mirror and the light song of the birds that populate the reserve.

At Senteurs du Vietnam, we have designed this tour to offer an unforgettable experience, perfectly balanced between cultural discovery, natural immersion and local encounters. Whether you are planning a day of adventure, a serene break in your itinerary or simply the desire to feel the deep Vietnam, Van Long welcomes you with dazzling beauty and sublime charm.

Get ready to live a unique moment, rich in emotions, where every detail reveals the strength, tranquility and magic of this exceptional site.

 

Departure from your hotel around 8 a.m. with our English-speaking tour guide.

Head to the stunning Van Long Nature Reserve and discover its beautiful scenery as you cruise on a small sampan while admiring its bird populations.

Then, go to Hoa Lu, former imperial capital, with its temples and pagodas, under the shade of century-old trees.

After lunch, discover another architectural wonder, Bai Dinh Pagoda. It is the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia, imbued with spirituality. You enter through the impressive Tam Quan gate before admiring the entire site, with its huge golden Buddha statues, caves and temples, surrounded by lush vegetation.

 

Price 2025 – 2026

2 pax: 2.100.000 VND / pax

3 pax: 1.930.000 VND / pax

4 pax: 1.700.000 VND / pax

 

The Van Long reserve

Located in the province of Ninh Binh, the nature reserve of Van Long is a grandiose landscape where time seems suspended. Far less frequented than Tam Coc or Trang An, it offers a serene and deeply authentic atmosphere, ideal for travelers seeking calm, untouched nature and sumptuous panoramas.

Van Long is often nicknamed the ‘forgotten terrestrial Halong Bay’, a true ecological sanctuary where majestic karst mountains, sparkling calm waters and lush vegetation mingle. The area is protected as a wetland nature reserve, home to exceptional biodiversity. One finds there in particular the langur of Delacour, one of the rarest primates in the world, which one can sometimes observe around a limestone cliff.

The best way to discover Van Long is to embark on a traditional bamboo sampan. This gentle navigation allows you to explore caves, rice fields, steep cliffs and protected areas, while enjoying the silence and the bright beauty of the place. Unlike the more touristic tours, here, the exchanges with local rowers are simple, sincere and warm: a memorable encounter that adds an essential human dimension to your visit.

Beyond the reserve, Van Long also seduces with its cultural richness: peaceful villages, ancient temples, authentic scenes of life. The setting is ideal for photography, for a peaceful walk or for a nature break during a tour in northern Vietnam.

Van Long is a destination apart, which combines harmony, natural beauty and deep immersion in rural Vietnam. A rare, preserved and absolutely captivating place that we recommend to all travelers in search of an authentic and memorable experience.

Cruise on the Mekong – 4 days and 3 nights

Cruise on the Mekong – 4 days and 3 nights

Embarking on a cruise on the Mekong is to leave behind the effervescent rhythm of the city to enter a world where time flows over the water. From the first moments, the river opens like a brown and majestic ribbon, lined with water palm trees, villages on stilts and rice fields bathed in a warm light. The Mekong delta is not just a landscape: it is a real living, vibrant ecosystem shaped by the tides, traditions and smiles of those who live there.

Over the course of the 4 days of navigation, the magic happens. The boats glide in the silence of the morning, the floating markets come alive from dawn in a colorful ballet, the boats loaded with tropical fruits, vegetables and flowers create a joyful and authentic harmony. The winding canals reveal simple scenes of life: children playing by the water’s edge, fishermen casting their nets, women preparing meals in front of their wooden house.

Every stopover is a meeting. We stop in a craft factory where we model coconut sugar, we discover the making of rice cakes, we stroll in the pomelos and ramboutans orchards, we share a tea with a family from the delta. The cruise then becomes a deeply human journey, a bridge between you and the culture of South Vietnam.

In the evening, the river subsides. The sky blazes with golden hues, then gives way to absolute calm. On board, the boat transforms into an intimate refuge, lulled by the murmur of water and the breath of the wind. It is a fabulous moment, suspended, where one feels in total harmony with the surrounding nature.

This 4-day cruise on the Mekong is more than just a simple navigation: it is a complete immersion, a sweet and captivating escape to the heart of an authentic, generous and deeply alive Vietnam.

Schedule of the 4-day Mekong cruise

Day 1 – Phnom Penh (D):

Board on the boat at 4 p.m. to start this 3-night cruise to Can Tho.

As the sun sets on the Tonle Sap River, linger over a sundowner on the sundeck while taking in a performance of Khmer Apsara dancing with the opportunity to meet the performers afterward.

As day turns into night, sit down to a wonderful dinner to officially welcome you aboard your Victoria Mekong Cruise. Tonight, the ship overnights at Sisowath Quay.

 

Day 2 – Phnom Penh – Tan Chau – Vam Nao (B, L, D):

As the ship begins cruising towards the Cambodia-Vietnam border, enjoy the morning sun by the Infinity Pool or the Sky Deck, followed by breakfast in the restaurant. After, enjoy the many on-board activities including a ship’s tour, a mini- golf or simply enjoy the scenery as we sail on towards Vietnam and cross the border between Vietnam and Cambodia.

After lunch, head by sampan to the shore and take a local rickshaw to a silk village to witness all the steps to producing this fine textile, including the use of natural dyes made from tree bark, leaves and fruit.

Return on board for a traditional Vietnamese lion dance. After dinner, enjoy the evening’s entertainment while the ship sails to Vam Nao.

 

Day 3 – Vam Nao – Long Xuyen – Dinh Yen – Tan Loc  (B, L, D):

Wake up to another leisurely breakfast as the ship cruises towards the provincial capital of Long Xuyen in the Mekong Delta. Tender ashore to visit the authentic Long Xuyen Floating Market and the An Giang Museum, with fascinating exhibits on Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer and Cham cultures, and learn about the ancient Oc Eo civilization.

Enjoy lunch onboard as we cruise towards Dinh Yen village. Get off the cruise to visit the place where thousands of colorful mats are made.. On the way stop over at a family to see how they are making tofu skin.

Enjoy a traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music performance followed by a final farewell dinner. Overnight in Tan Loc.

 

Day 4 – Tan Loc – Can Tho (B):

For your last day on board the Victoria Mekong, enjoy breakfast on the terrace of our Claypot restaurant. Chill out and enjoy the view from the pool or from your private balcony before disembarkation around 9 a.m.

 

Price upon request

Visite de Hué

Discovery of Hue

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, a timeless visit of Hue

Former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue seduces with its peaceful atmosphere, its heritage listed by UNESCO and its vestiges steeped in history.
Located on the banks of the Perfume River, the city was for more than 140 years the political, spiritual and artistic heart of the country.
Even today, it embodies the elegance and serenity of traditional Vietnam, between perfumed pagodas, royal tombs and imperial gardens.

During this one-day tour of Hue, you will discover the treasures of the ancient dynasty of the Nguyen: the Imperial City, the majestic tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, as well as the famous Thien Mu pagoda, timeless symbol of the city.
A cruise on the Perfume River will complete this immersion, offering a poetic look at the landscapes and the daily life of the inhabitants.

Accompanied by your English-speaking guide, passionate about the history of Vietnam, you will follow in the footsteps of emperors and poets, between culture, nature and spirituality.
This discovery of Hue is a real invitation to travel back in time, to discover a refined Vietnam, steeped in mystery and harmony.

 

Program of the visit of Hue (1 day)

Our English-speaking guide will meet you at the hotel in the city center around 9 a.m. to go visit the Imperial City.

Then discover Thien Mu pagoda before embarking on a traditional dragon boat and navigate the Perfume River to return to the city center.

After lunch, go to the countryside of Hue to discover the history of the Tomb of Tu Duc and to walk the paths of its gardens in the middle of the bodies of water.

Then, make a photo stop at the incense village and go back to the hotel.

Optionally, you can also visit the tomb of Khai Dinh, with a unique style combining Vietnamese and European influences.
This monument impresses with its meticulous mosaics, sculpted dragons and majestic throne room dominated by the bronze statue of the emperor (supplement of 150,000 vnd / pax).

Book your visit of Hue

Between imperial heritage and sweetness of life, Hue seduces with its timeless beauty and its atmosphere of serenity.
Exploring the imperial city, cruising on the Perfume River or admiring the tombs of emperors in the heart of a lush nature, it is diving into the soul of historical and poetic Vietnam.

With Senteurs du Vietnam, each visit to Hue is designed as a complete cultural experience, combining discovery, authenticity and comfort.
Our English-speaking guides passionately share the history and traditions of this ancient capital, while our tailor-made itineraries adapt to your desires – whether you are traveling as a couple, with family or friends.

Price 2025 – 2026:

2 pax: 2.200.000 VND / pax

3 pax: 1.850.000 VND / pax

4 pax: 1.660.000 VND / pax

Hue, former imperial capital of Vietnam

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hue is one of the most emblematic cities of cultural Vietnam.
Located in the center of the country, on the peaceful banks of the Perfume River, it was the political and religious capital under the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945).
During this period, Hue became a place of refinement, where architecture, poetry and traditional Vietnamese arts flourished.

A city steeped in spirituality and gentleness

Crossed by the Perfume River, Hue is also a spiritual city where the bells of the pagodas still resound.
The Thien Mu pagoda, perched on its hill, dominates the river and symbolizes Buddhist wisdom.
Its seven floors, steles and flower garden make it one of the most photographed sites in central Vietnam.

Hue charms with its slow pace, fragrant markets and refined cuisine, considered the most delicate in the country.
Each walk through its shady alleys reveals an imperial and poetic Vietnam, where past and present intermingle harmoniously.