Vietnam Tours

Vietnam Revealed the Ultimate Culinary Pilgrimage

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AVT23 - 18 days
Hanoi – Duong Lam – Mai Chau – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Hue – Hoian – Mekong – Saigon
  •  +84989191859
  • sales@asiavietnamtravel.com
  • asiavietnamtravel.com
Travel Expert Mr.Tim Pham

Prepare to embark on a definitive journey across Vietnam, where the landscape is as diverse as the flavors it produces. This is more than a tour; it is a pilgrimage through four distinct culinary worlds:

The North: The Elegance of Purity – Discover the beauty of restraint. Northern cuisine is refined and neutral, honoring the natural essence of ingredients through delicate steaming and boiling.

The Highlands: The Wild Spirit – Taste the "soul of the forest." Defined by ancient foraging traditions, you will encounter the numbing heat of Mac Khen (jungle pepper) and the smoky aroma of Hat Doi seeds.

The Central: Royalty and Spice – An explosion of bold, spicy, and savory profiles. Here, the meticulous artistry of Hue’s Imperial Legacy meets the ancient, sun-drenched flavors of the Cham people.

The South: A Tropical Melting Pot – In the sun-drenched Mekong and electric Saigon, the food turns vibrant and sweet. Influenced by Chinese and Indian heritages, the South is a lush fusion of rich coconut milk and crispy, fried delights.

Booking My Tour

Day 1 PHASE 1: THE REFINED NORTH & ANCIENT TRADITIONS
Day 2 Day 1: Hanoi Arrival • The Quiet Before the Feast

Touch down in the thousand-year-old capital. Your private driver will whisk you to a charming 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Quarter, setting the tone for an immersive introduction to Vietnam culinary.

Tonight, the journey begins with a welcome glass of chilled sparkling wine followed by an elegant introductory dinner. We sample Hanoi’s "comfort food" - delicate spring rolls and grilled fish - within the walls of a beautifully restored French colonial villa. This day will be a memorable opening day for your Vietnam Revealed tour.

Stay: 4-star Boutique Hotel

Day 3 Day 2: The Hanoian Ritual – Morning Pho & Cafe - Evening Streetfood Safari (B/L)

Wake up like a local to the sounds of the city as Vietnam revealed through its morning rituals. Join our culinary guide for the "Holy Trinity" of Hanoian mornings: a steaming bowl of heirloom Beef Pho at a family-run stall, followed by velvety, hand-whisked Egg Coffee. Then, your guide for this Vietnam Revealed tour will share the captivating origin story of Pho—from its humble roots on the street corners. You will learn about the "secret geometry" of a perfect bowl and reveal the true heart of Hanoi food, teaching you that a "good bowl of Pho" is not just about the ingredients, but a delicate balance of fragrance, clarity, and tradition that has been refined over a century, unfolding the essence of Vietnam culinary culture.

This evening, we will take a stroll through these historic streets, a story that truly defines Vietnam Revealed. We aren’t here to eat everything in sight, but rather to observe the fascinating dining habits that define the Old Quarter. Along the way, you will have the chance to taste some of the most iconic specialties that have shaped Vietnam culinary tradition.

Do you know? In Hanoi Capital, dinner is more than just a meal; it’s a reflection of the city’s rhythm. For most Hanoians, the evening starts around 7.00 PM with a traditional family meal at home. Meanwhile, students and young professionals often linger after work, drifting toward street-side stalls for a quick snack or a casual bite.

The Old Quarter, however, tells a different story. Here, the fast-paced lifestyle and cramped living quarters mean many families rarely cook at home. Instead, they dine out at local street joints, returning home only to gather briefly before bed. This lifestyle has turned the Old Quarter into a culinary mecca. Its residents are famously foodies with high standards - they don’t mind the price, as long as the flavor is authentic and exceptional

Stay: 4-star Boutique Hotel

Day 4 Day 3: The Red River Delta • Local Market Visit - The 10-Hour Heritage Feast (B/L)

Your exploration begins at the vibrant local market of Duong Lam, where Vietnam Revealed through rural Vietnam. Unlike Western cultures, where families often do a weekly grocery run at large supermarkets, Vietnamese culinary is built on freshness. Here, it is common for women to visit the market every a day to ensure meal is prepared with the finest ingredients.

This dedication to freshness and labor-intensive preparation is best witnessed beneath a hundred-year-old home. Here, you will discover the art of Vietnam culinary heritage cooking: the 10-hour slow-simmering of fish with ginger and soy in traditional clay pots, and the famous Crispy Roasted Pork, meticulously hand-turned over a bamboo pole. This offers a profound glimpse into a culture that treasures the time and craft behind every bite!

Stay: 4-star Boutique Hotel

Day 5 Day 4: Into the Highlands • Leisure Village Walk (B/D)

Leave the lowlands behind as we wind into the emerald Mai Chau Valley, where Vietnam Revealed through shifting landscapes and changing flavors. As the altitude rises, the spice rack changes. Check in and rest at your ecolodge.

In the afternoon, there is a relaxing walk around the villages, and get to know the community of The White Thai.

Do you know? The White Thai of Mai Chau are esteemed for their expert agricultural skills and civilized community lifestyle, maintaining exceptionally tidy stilt houses and a clean, organized village environment. Their Vietnam culinary mastery is a highlight of the valley, where fresh, homegrown ingredients are transformed into exquisite dishes that are as refined as the people themselves.

Stay: 4-star Boutique Ecolodge

Day 6 Day 5: Cycling the Paddies • Preparing Lunch with the White Thai (B/L)

Spend a refreshing morning cycling along winding village paths, where Vietnam Revealed unfolds through lush forests, emerald rice paddies, and buffalo grazing. The journey discovering a more rustic side of Vietnam culinary in a traditional stilt house, where a local White Thai family welcomes you into their home.

You will join your hosts in the kitchen to prepare lunch, from hand-picking fresh herbs to learning the secrets of highland seasonings. Discover how to marinate grilled dishes with the signature "Mac Khen" (forest pepper) and "Hat Doi" (wild seeds) to create the distinctive, aromatic flavors of the mountains. After the preparation, gather together to enjoy the authentic feast you helped create, sharing stories and laughter over a table of regional specialties, capture the spirit of Vietnam Revealed tour.

Stay: 4-star Boutique Ecolodge

Day 7 Day 6: Karst Grottoes • The Secret of Ninh Binh’s Mountain Goat (B/L)

A picturesque drive leads you to Ninh Binh, where Vietnam Revealed through towering karsts and tranquil waterways. Following a classic sampan boat journey through the so-called “Halong Bay on Land”, you’ll sit down to enjoy the region’s most celebrated dish: Crisp, Sun-dried Rice paired with Mountain Goat.

Do you know? You might wonder why goat meat is the most famous specialty of Ninh Binh. The secret lies in the unique terrain of the region. Here, the goats are raised naturally on the steep limestone mountains rather than in flat pastures. As they roam freely, they feed on a wide variety of wild plants and herbs that grow among the rocks. For this reason, locals believe their meat is not only exceptionally lean and flavorful but also incredibly nutritious and beneficial for one's health, making it a cornerstone of regional Vietnam culinary tradition and a source of pride for the area.

Stay: 4/5-star Resort

Day 8 Day 7: Transfer to Halong Bay • Serenity Among the Karsts (B/L/D)

Step aboard a luxury wooden junk boat as we set sail into the heart of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site of ethereal beauty. This day is dedicated to pure relaxation and personal reflection.

There is no rush - only the gentle rhythm of the sea. Whether you choose to find a quiet corner to read, practice Tai Chi as the sun dips below the karst peaks, or simply lose yourself in the breathtaking views from your private cabin, the day provides a profound sense of peace. Surrounded by the timeless grandeur of the Gulf of Tonkin, this is your time to disconnect from the world and soak in one of nature’s most iconic masterpieces.

Stay: 4/5-star Cruise

Day 9 PHASE 2: THE IMPERIAL HEART & THE LANTERN TOWN
Day 10 Day 8: Halong Bay – Airport - Flight to the Citadel (B)

Leaving your cruise around noon, Vietnam Revealed tour will transfer you to the airport for your flight south to Hue. Once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue welcomes you with a quieter way to immerse yourself in its refined traditions, including its celebrated Vietnamese culinary heritage.

Upon arrival, your private driver escorts you to your hotel for check-in, after which the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. As Vietnam Revealed through gentle moments, you may stroll along the Perfume River at sunset, browse local markets for an introduction to Hue’s handicrafts, relax at your hotel and recharge, or perhaps try local dishes in Hue that hint at the elegance of Vietnam culinary culture awaiting.

Stay: 4-star Hotel

Day 11 Day 9: The Emperor’s Kitchen • The Art of Culinary Balance & Imperial Heritage (B/L)

Morning: The Yin-Yang Masterclass

Step into the tranquil setting of a private garden house, where Vietnam Revealed through an intimate encounter with a chef whose lineage traces directly back to the royal kitchens of the Nguyen Dynasty. In this serene space, you’ll explore the profound philosophy of Yin and Yang, offering a refined introduction to the Vietnam culinary tradition.

Do you know? In Hue, every dish is a miniature universe of balance - cooling (Yin) and warming (Yang) elements thoughtfully combined to suit the body, the season, and the spirit. As Vietnam Revealed through royal technique, you’ll learn where vegetables are delicately carved into symbolic phoenixes and flavors are harmonized with medicinal precision, which reflects the wisdom of Vietnam culinary heritage.

Afternoon: The Soul of the Citadel

The journey continues to the Imperial Citadel, where Vietnam Revealed once more as you walk the sacred grounds of the historic royal kitchens. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how imperial meals were conceived as both art and elixir - crafted to nourish longevity, balance, and well-being at the highest level of Vietnam culinary culture.

Stay: 4-star Hotel

Day 12 Day 10: The Coastal Drive to Hoi An (B/L)

We journey south over the spectacular Hai Van Pass, where Vietnam Revealed through dramatic scenery and a subtle shift in taste.

By sunset, we arrive in the lantern-lit UNESCO town of Hoi An, where Vietnam Revealed feels especially enchanting. For over 500 years, this historic trading port has served as a crossroads of cultures, spices, and techniques, shaping a richly layered Vietnam culinary tradition that continues to glow.

Stay: 4-star Boutique Beach/Riverside Resort

Day 13 Day 11: Herbs of Tra Que • Lunch at Mai Fish (B/L)

Your journey into the heart of Hoi An’s flavors begins at the Tra Que Organic Village, a lush haven where Vietnam Revealed through centuries-old farming traditions. What makes the herbs here world-renowned is the unique soil, enriched exclusively by seaweed harvested from the nearby Co Co River lagoon. This natural fertilizer imparts an intense aroma and distinctive flavor to basil, spicy mint, and coriander that cannot be replicated elsewhere. These herbs are truly the "soul" of Hoi An’s gastronomy, forming a foundation of Vietnam culinary excellence; without the subtle fragrance of Tra Que greens, iconic dishes like Cao Lau or Hoi An Chicken Rice would lose their authentic character.

Roll up your sleeves and join the local farmers in the fields, getting your hands dirty as you learn to harvest these delicate greens. Afterward, we head to the iconic Mai Fish to see those very same herbs transformed. Here, you will savor a complete "farm-to-table" experience with the roots of Vietnam culinary tradition.

Stay: 4-star Boutique Beach/Riverside Resort

Day 14 Day 12: The Street Food Safari in the evening (B/D)

After a morning by the turquoise waters of the beach, Vietnam Revealed gently shifts gears as your "Culinary Safari" begins just as the golden hour settles over the town. As the lanterns begin to glow, you’ll meet our expert Vietnam culinary guide to weave through a labyrinth of hidden back alleys, away from the usual tourist paths.

We’ll make a pilgrimage to the humble stall serving the "World’s Best Banh Mi". This is a title famously bestowed by the legendary Anthony Bourdain. The Vietnam Revealed tour continues into secret courtyards to savor the delicate "White Rose" dumplings, translucent pockets of shrimp and pork that resemble blooming flowers, showcasing the quiet elegance of Vietnam culinary craftsmanship.

Do you know? To truly experience Hoi An is to eat like a local: perched on low plastic stools tucked into bustling corners, surrounded by the rhythmic hum of evening life.

Stay: 4-star Boutique Beach/Riverside Resort

Day 15 PHASE 3: THE TROPICAL DELTA & SAIGON VIBES
Day 16 Day 13: Flight to the River Kingdom (B/D)

Fly to Can Tho, the pulsing heart of the Mekong Delta. The air here is thick with the scent of fruit and river water. We enjoy a súnet dinner by the Hau River, sampling the famous "Elephant Ear Fish"—crispy, upright-standing fish wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs—a true Vietnam culinary masterpiece.

Stay: 4/5-star Riverside Resort

Day 17 Day 14: Orchard Foraging • The Delta Table (B/L)

Spend your morning cycling, then we’ll stop to pluck vibrant rambutan, sweet longan, and "queenly" mangosteen straight from the heavy-laden branches. This connects you directly to the land and the fresh foundations of Vietnam culinary tradition.

The highlight of the day is a hosted lunch at a welcoming local family home, where Vietnam Revealed through the generous spirit and flavors. You will savor a "Table of Abundance" centered around the iconic Elephant Ear Fish, fried to a perfect golden crisp and served standing upright. Experience the soulful depth of Caramelized Pork with Eggs (Thit Kho Trung) and Clay-pot Catfish (Ca Kho To), where the slow-simmered sauces create a rich, savory glaze. To complete this gourmet journey, indulge in Giant Freshwater Prawns (Tom Cang Xanh), freshly caught and steamed inside a young coconut to infuse the meat with a delicate, creamy sweetness. Shared in the warmth of local hospitality, this feast is a heartfelt celebration of Vietnam culinary culture — an unforgettable moment of Vietnam Revealed.

Stay: 4/5-star Riverside Resort

Day 18 Day 15: Cai Rang Floating Market: A Symphony of Senses • Transfer to Saigon (B/L)

At dawn, Vietnam Revealed comes alive amid the vibrant chaos of Cai Rang, the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. It’s not just about the bowl of Hu Tieu (noodle soup) passed boat-to-boat, but about immersing yourself in a living showcase of Vietnam culinary culture found nowhere else.

As you sit on your boat, gently bobbing on the water, you are surrounded by an endless sea of colorful produce and the rhythmic, joyful hum of trade. Beauty lies in the details: steam curling up from hot soup, laughter echoing between boats, and the vibrant pulse of river life that defines this floating world of Vietnam culinary tradition.

In the afternoon, you get transferred to Saigon.

Stay: 4-star Hotel

Day 19 Day 16: Saigon by Day & Night: From Tranquil Leisure to Urban Pulse (B)

The morning and afternoon are yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to recharge at your hotel, explore the city’s French colonial landmarks, or wander through hidden art galleries, the day is designed for personal discovery.

However, as the sun sets, this Vietnam Revealed tour takes on an entirely new energy. Your "Saigon By Night" journey begins, immersing you in the electric energy of Vietnam’s most dynamic metropolis. We’ll dive into the heart of the local "eating and drinking" culture and the bold flavors that define modern Vietnam culinary culture.

The night then takes a sophisticated turn as we uncover "speakeasy" bars tucked away in secret, historic buildings, before ending the evening at a glittering Sky Bar. From here, the relentless pulse of a city that never sleeps unfolds below.

Stay: 4-star Hotel

Day 20 Day 17: The Farm-to-Table Challenge: A Charismatic Culinary Finale (B/L)

Head to a lush organic farm in Cu Chi for our final and perhaps most intriguing culinary encounter. The soul of this farm is its owner and head chef, a charismatic character who spent a decade honing his craft in Australia before returning to Vietnam to establish this restaurant right in the heart of his family’s farmland. His story alone offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving spirit of Vietnam culinary innovation.

A natural storyteller as much as a cook, he famously claims to have mastered over 300 different dishes, a bold statement that adds a layer of mystery and humor to the experience, as no one has ever dared to verify them all! Under his guidance, Vietnam Revealed went far beyond a typical cooking class. You will learn to prepare "bravery dishes" using exotic local ingredients like crickets and scorpions, perfectly balanced with fresh, farm-grown vegetables, an adventurous expression of Vietnam culinary creativity.

Stay: 4-star Hotel

Day 21 Day 18: Departure (B)

Savor one last cup of thick, condensed-milk Vietnamese coffee as you watch the city wake up. Transfer to the airport with a full heart and a deeper understanding of Vietnam culinary, ending this Vietnam Revealed tour

  • The 10-Hour Heritage Feast (Red River Delta): Step back in time in a 400-year-old village to witness the slow-burning art of Northern tradition. Experience the patience of heritage cooking with fish simmered for 10 hours in clay pots and pork roasted over sugarcane embers.

  • Highland Foraging & "Jungle Pepper": Trade the city streets for mountain trails in Mai Chau. Join ethnic minority foragers to source Mac Khen and Hat Doi. They are rare, wild spices that provide the aromatic, numbing soul of Northwest Vietnamese cuisine.

  • Imperial Masterclass with a Grandmaster: Enter the private garden houses of Hue for an exclusive residency with a Royal Chef. Learn the meticulous "Phoenix carving" and the balanced medicinal philosophy that once served the Nguyen Emperors.

  • The Street Food Safari (Twilight Edition): Ditch the white tablecloths for Hoi An’s legendary plastic stools. Led by our culinary expert, navigate secret alleys to find the "World's Best Banh Mi" and dumplings hidden from the tourist maps.

  • Sunrise Floating Breakfast: Experience the magic of the Mekong Delta at dawn. There is no table more authentic than a wooden sampan, enjoying steaming Hu Tieu (noodle soup) passed boat-to-boat amidst the vibrant chaos of the floating market.

  • The "Brave Palate" Challenge: Push your culinary boundaries at a sustainable organic farm in Cu Chi. Learn the clean, high-protein art of preparing exotic delicacies like crickets and scorpions - a true badge of honor for any serious food traveler.

  • The Culinary Guide Market Missions: Go beyond just buying ingredients. Join our culinary Guide to learn the "Secret Language" of Vietnamese wet markets, from identifying the freshest morning-glory to selecting the perfect fermented fish sauce (Nuoc Mam).

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Inclusions

  • Expert Guidance: Culinary Guides

  • Accommodation: 17 nights in hand-picked 4-star boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and heritage resorts.

  • The Full Feast: All breakfasts and featured specialty lunches/dinners as specified (B/L/D).

  • Exclusive Experiences: Private Royal Cooking Masterclass, Duong Lam Heritage Feast, Street Food Safari, and Cu Chi Exotic Class.

  • Internal Logistics: Domestic flights (HAN-HUI, DAD-VCA), private AC transport, and all boat/cruise fees.

Exclusions

  • International Airfare: Flights to/from your home country.

  • Visas & Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance and Vietnam visa fees.

  • Personal Libations: Alcoholic beverages (wine, cocktails) not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Leisure Meals: A few select meals (like Day 17 dinner) are left open to allow for personal exploration.

  • Tips: Gratuities for your dedicated chefs, drivers, and local guides.

Remarks:

- Guests should be healthy and in good physical condition

- Weather conditions may impose changes in the program or the cancellation of certain activities

- Guests need to bring a copy of their passport, visa page with a stamp

- AVT Travel reserves the right to adjust our prices if any changes in tax & gasoline prices increase in All Destinations.

- No reservations are made yet.

Payment Policy:

- Pre-payment 100% (after services confirmed, arrival 30 days in advance).

- Deposit 30% (after services are reserved to guarantee the booking).

- Payment can be made by Bank Draft or SWIFT transfer payable to our Bank A/C.

- All Bank service charges will be borne by the payee.

- If payment is by credit card, an additional 3 or 4% will be added to our tariff rates.

- American Express / Visa and Mastercard are accepted.

- Bank draft or cashier’s cheque to be mailed to

- Company cheques or personal cheques are NOT acceptable.

Refunds or Cancellation:

- Tour and transfer deposits are fully refundable if the amendment/cancellation is received more than 20 days in advance. Hotel deposits will be refunded according to the individual hotel's cancellation policy.

- No refund for all flight fares after tour confirmation

- Cancellation fees will be levied according to the time cancellation is made.

- No refund or reduction will be made to any member of GROUP/F.I.T. who breaks the journey from the scheduled itinerary.

Disclaimer:

AVT acts as an intermediary between transportation and airline companies, hotels, tourist offices, and all other contractors providing services for tourists. Additional expenses incurred due to delays, accidents, natural disasters, political action, and unrest must be borne by the clients. Programs and tour prices are based on the situation at the time of printing this proposal and could be subject to change due to local conditions.

Participation in our tour programs implies the client’s agreement to the above. We reserve the right to amend or alter any of the conditions herein without notice from time to time and at our sole discretion.

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Vietnam Revealed the Ultimate Culinary Pilgrimage

Vietnam Revealed the Ultimate Culinary Pilgrimage

Prepare to embark on a definitive journey across Vietnam, where the landscape is as diverse as the flavors it produces. This is more than a tour; it is a pilgrimage through four distinct culinary worlds!

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