A Culinary and Cultural Tour through Vietnam with Every Element
The scent of lemongrass, the clang of street-side woks, or that first bite of bánh xèo, Vietnam is a destination that captivates both the palate and the spirit.
Vietnam is a destination that stirs all five senses — from the sizzle of street food stalls in Hanoi to the peaceful hum of lantern-lit evenings in Hoi An. I recently hosted a small group tour of 8 woman through Vietnam, and what unfolded was a deliciously rich adventure steeped in flavour, history, and connection. We had the most amazing time. This is not just a place to visit — it’s a country to savour.
Vibrant Hanoi
Hanoi
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a captivating mix of old-world charm and urban dynamism. Here, tree-lined boulevards and ancient temples coexist with the buzz of scooters and modern cafés. The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi — a maze of narrow streets filled with French-colonial architecture, street food vendors, and hidden art galleries. It’s a place where you can sip egg coffee in a centuries-old café, then stroll to a tranquil lake surrounded by locals practicing tai chi. Hanoi is an immersive introduction to Vietnam’s culture, cuisine, and energy — the perfect starting point for your journey.
STAY:
Hanoi LE Jardin Hotel & Spa
La Siesta Classic Ma May – boutique style, excellent location in the Old Quarter
Oriental Jade Hotel
EAT:
Met Vietnamese Restaurant - Try the Vietnamese Pancakes
Vi Ha Noi Restaurant & Cafe
Duong’s Restaurant – for elevated traditional Vietnamese
DO:
Street food walking tour with a local guide - sample all the local favourites
Water puppet theatre
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Temple of Literature
Judy’s Insider tips:
Don’t miss Train street — where the railway cuts through a narrow alley lined with cafés. Grab a coffee, but stay alert — the train really does come speeding past - and it’s so exhilarating.
Have a delicious Vietnamese egg coffee at Note Cafe, near the lake
2. Halong Bay
This UNESCO World Heritage site is Vietnam’s iconic seascape — emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts and floating villages. The best way to experience it? A stylish overnight cruise where you’ll dine under the stars, kayak through hidden lagoons, and soak up the serenity.
STAY:
Indochine Cruise – Traditional luxury with spacious cabins
Heritage Line – Violet – Boutique and romantic
Peony Cruise – Elegant and luxurious
EAT:
Meals are usually onboard and include fresh seafood, Vietnamese specialities, and international dishes. You may also enjoy:
Onboard cooking class – Learn to make fresh spring rolls
Candlelit dinner on deck – If weather permits, it’s magical
DO:
Kayak or bamboo boat through caves and lagoons
Visit floating fishing villages
Tai Chi at sunrise on deck
Judy’s Insider Tips:
This overnight cruise is a must do - an absolutely wonderful experience
3. Hoi An
Charming, colourful and steeped in history, Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most magical destinations. The UNESCO-listed Ancient Town is a maze of lantern-lit streets, mustard-yellow facades, and riverside cafes. It has a wonderfully laid-back vibe, blending centuries of influence from Japan, China, and Europe. It's also the perfect spot for food lovers – from street vendors to stylish restaurants, Hoi An offers some of the best culinary experiences in Vietnam.
STAY:
Anmira Resort & Spa - Beautiful, elegant resort
Anantara Hoi An – colonial charm and walking distance to Old Town
Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort – great location + spa
EAT:
Miss Ly’s Café – best cao lầu in town
Dao Tien Riverside Restaurant
Cam Linh Vietnamese Restaurant
DO:
Do a walking tour of the Ancient Town and the vibrant night markets
Make lanterns at one of Hoi An’s famous lantern workshops - a really fun thing to do
Go on a bike ride through the picturesque rice paddies to An Bang Beach for a cocktail at a beach side bar.
Enjoy a home hosted dinner in a local house
Get your clothes custom-tailored! Bring a favourite piece or photo, and they’ll recreate it in a day or two.
Judy’s Insider tips:
Don’t miss an enchanting night time cruise to release lanterns into the river
Enjoy wandering the streets of the small town taking time to explore and shop - it’s really a gorgeous town worth spending time in
4. Hue
Once Vietnam’s imperial capital, Hue is steeped in history and elegance. Set along the Perfume River, this graceful city is home to ancient citadels, royal tombs, and peaceful pagodas. It’s where Vietnam’s regal past meets slow-paced charm — perfect for culture lovers.
STAY:
Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort – peaceful and beautiful
Silk Path Grand Hue - a beautiful and refined hotel
Senna Hue Hotel - an upscale hotel with spa
EAT:
Les Jardins de La Carambole – French-Vietnamese fusion.
Hanh Restaurant – for traditional bánh khoai (Hue pancakes)
VI Hue Restaurant & Cafe
DO:
Explore the Imperial City and royal tombs
Wander the French Quarter and the Hue Citadel
Experience a Hue culinary experience with a food tour
Judy’s Insider tips:
Enjoy a boat cruise on the peaceful Perfume river to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda
Take a cyclo (bike rickshaw) ride through the city at dusk — it's the best way to soak it all in without the traffic chaos
5. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Energetic, cosmopolitan and endlessly fascinating, Ho Chi Minh City is a place where ancient culture and modern life collide. From bustling markets and street food stalls to glitzy rooftop bars and French colonial architecture, Saigon serves up a deliciously eclectic experience. It’s the perfect finale to a Vietnam journey – full of life, flavour, and vibrant city buzz.
STAY:
Hotel des Arts Saigon – MGallery – Chic and stylish with incredible views
Grand Hotel du Lac Boutique Saigon
Hotel Indigo Saigon the City
EAT:
Propaganda Bistro – Colourful, creative and delicious
The Deck Saigon – Elegant riverside dining
Hoa Tuk - tucked into an alley that was the city’s largest opium producing factory
DO:
Enjoy a night foodie tour by vespa
Crawl through the Chi Chi Tunnels
Explore Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office
Enjoy a visit to the flower market.
Judy’s Insider tips:
Go by sampan down the Mekong River - such a fun experience
Shop for ingredients in the markets and do a cooking class
🧳 Thinking of Joining a Future Trip?
If this sounds like your dream kind of adventure — food, culture, connection and a touch of luxe — I’d love to have you on my next hosted tour. Join my mailing list or send me a message and I’ll send you the details when they’re ready.
