- Overview
- Captured moments
- Day by day
- What's included
- Travel notes
- Not included
- Your questions answered
Tết comes alive each year across Vietnam, a time of colour, ritual, and renewal. This is not a festival observed from the outside. It is an invitation into the traditions that shape the beginning of a new year.
Experience highlights
- Explore Hanoi’s pre-dawn flower markets as the city prepares for Tết
- Experience ancestral traditions and temple rituals during the Lunar New Year
- Glide by boat through the limestone landscapes of Ninh Bình
- Step into the lantern-lit celebrations of Hội An
- Experience Ho Chi Minh City's spectacular Tết celebrations
Our journey begins in Hanoi, where the days leading up to Tết are filled with anticipation. Flower markets, decorative streets, and everyday rituals offer a first glimpse into the traditions that define the celebration.
In Ninh Bình, the pace softens. Among limestone mountains and rice fields, we experience a quieter side of Tết through temples, countryside life, and time spent close to the land.
The journey continues to Hội An, where lantern lit streets, riverside traditions, and centuries of heritage reveal a more intimate side of the Lunar New Year before we travel south.
Our final days unfold in Ho Chi Minh City, where elaborate floral displays, festive streets, and the remarkable energy of Vietnam's largest city provide a spectacular finale as the country welcomes the Lunar New Year.
It is a journey through preparation, tradition, celebration, and renewal, where Vietnam's traditions are experienced with clarity, warmth, and intention.
Limited to just 12 travellers to keep the experience intimate.
This journey unfolds across Vietnam during Tết, the Lunar New Year, when the country pauses, gathers, and begins again. From the vibrant preparations in Hanoi and the peaceful landscapes of Ninh Bình to the lantern lit streets of Hội An and the spectacular celebrations of Ho Chi Minh City, each destination reveals a different chapter of Vietnam's most important festival.
As the days progress, we move between ritual and everyday life, witnessing ancestral traditions, local customs, and the changing atmosphere as anticipation builds towards Tết before culminating in the country's largest celebrations. The journey balances vibrant cities with peaceful countryside, creating space to experience both the excitement and quieter moments that define the Lunar New Year.
Our itinerary is designed around the cultural rhythm of Tết, allowing us to experience both the preparation and celebration itself. As with all journeys shaped by living traditions, timings and flow may adjust slightly to honour local customs and preserve the authenticity of each experience.
Itinerary
Day 01 | Hanoi
Date : 17/01/2028
First Impressions | Symbols of the New Year
Highlights
Tết preparations • Decorative streets experience • Old Quarter by night • Street food journey
Along the way
Stepping into Hanoi's Old Quarter, our guided street food journey introduces the flavours that have shaped northern Vietnam for generations. Between long established eateries and hidden street food stalls, flower stalls spill onto pavements, kumquat trees line the streets and red lanterns sway overhead as neighbourhoods prepare for Tết, while our local guide shares the customs and symbolism behind Vietnam's most important celebration.
Hanoi reveals another side of itself as evening settles. Lanterns illuminate the narrow streets, scooters weave effortlessly through the Old Quarter and the aromas of charcoal grills, simmering broths and fresh herbs fill the air. Sharing our first meal together on a guided street food journey, we discover the flavours that have shaped northern Vietnam for generations.
Behind the design
Arrival days are designed to land softly. Guests often arrive at different times after long international journeys, so rather than launching straight into sightseeing, our Three Tenths Signature Welcome brings everyone together through local food in a relaxed and informal setting. It creates natural conversation, allowing strangers to become travelling companions before the journey truly begins. Hanoi's seasonal food culture and everyday traditions offer an authentic introduction to Vietnam as preparations for Tết unfold across the city.
Inclusions
Airport transfer • Tết decorations experience • Guided Old Quarter exploration • Street food journey • Welcome dinner • Accommodation in Hanoi
Day 02 | Hanoi
Date : 18/01/2028
Markets and Traditions | Preparing for the New Year
Highlights
Dawn Quảng Bá Flower Market • Vietnamese coffee culture workshop • Time to explore Hanoi
Along the way
Thousands of flowers arrive at Quảng Bá Flower Market long before sunrise, supplying homes, temples and ancestral altars across northern Vietnam ahead of Tết. Walking amongst fragrant lilies, chrysanthemums, peach blossoms and kumquat trees, we discover how families prepare for the Lunar New Year through traditions that have been passed down for generations.
After breakfast and time to refresh, Vietnam's remarkable coffee culture takes centre stage. Guided by local experts, we learn the art of brewing traditional phin coffee before preparing favourites such as rich egg coffee and smooth coconut coffee, discovering how coffee has become an essential part of everyday life throughout the country.
With space to enjoy free time, you can witness Hanoi as it continues preparations for Tết. The city's colourful streets, neighbourhood cafés and festive atmosphere invite you to experience the capital at your own pace before we gather once again for dinner.
Behind the design
Some experiences are worth setting the alarm for. The best time to experience Quảng Bá Flower Market is at dawn, when Hanoi is still waking and the market is at its busiest. We've paired this early morning tradition with Vietnam's celebrated coffee culture, offering the perfect boost after an early start while revealing how everyday rituals become an important part of preparing for Tết.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Guided Quảng Bá Flower Market visit • Vietnamese coffee workshop • Dinner • Accommodation in Hanoi
Day 03 | Hanoi
Date : 19/01/2028
Sacred Traditions | Temples and Ancestral Rituals
Highlights
Ancestral worship traditions • Trấn Quốc Pagoda • Ngọc Sơn Temple • Long Biên Bridge at sunset
Along the way
Flowers, fruit, incense and carefully prepared offerings become the focus of today's journey as we discover the traditions of ancestral worship that lie at the heart of Tết. Guided by local insight, we learn how these rituals express gratitude, remembrance and hopes for the year ahead, quietly connecting Vietnamese families across generations.
Trấn Quốc Pagoda rises peacefully beside West Lake before Ngọc Sơn Temple offers another glimpse into Hanoi's enduring spiritual life. As worshippers arrive with offerings and prayers, these remarkable places reveal themselves not simply as historic landmarks, but as living traditions that continue to shape everyday life. We pause for lunch before continuing our exploration of the city.
Late afternoon gives way to early evening as we make our way to historic Long Biên Bridge. Watching trains, bicycles and scooters cross the Red River from a nearby café whilst enjoying Vietnamese coffee, we reflect on another day of discovery as Hanoi's final preparations for Tết continue into the night before gathering for dinner together.
Behind the design
Rather than rushing to visit every landmark, we've carefully chosen places that tell Hanoi's story. Trấn Quốc Pagoda and Ngọc Sơn Temple reveal the spiritual traditions that shape Tết, while Long Biên Bridge reminds us that a city's history isn't only found in its temples and monuments. Sometimes the most meaningful places are those woven into everyday life.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Guided cultural experiences • Trấn Quốc Pagoda • Ngọc Sơn Temple • Lunch • Long Biên Bridge at sunset • Dinner • Accommodation in Hanoi
Day 04 | Ninh Binh
Date : 20/01/2028
Karst Landscapes | Arrival in the Countryside
Highlights
Journey to Ninh Bình • Hang Múa viewpoint • Countryside dinner
Along the way
Towering limestone peaks, winding rivers and emerald rice fields gradually replace Hanoi's busy streets as we journey into the heart of northern Vietnam. Villages decorated for Tết sit quietly beneath dramatic karst mountains, revealing a gentler side of the country where daily life remains closely connected to the land.
Hang Múa rewards the climb with one of Vietnam's most spectacular panoramas. From the summit, rivers weave through limestone valleys, rice fields stretch towards the horizon and tiny villages disappear into the landscape, revealing why this region is often described as one of the country's most breathtaking.
As evening settles across the countryside, we gather for dinner surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Ninh Bình. It's a welcome change of pace before our journey continues towards the Lunar New Year celebrations in central Vietnam.
Behind the design
Many travellers head to Hạ Long Bay, and with good reason. It's one of Vietnam's most iconic landscapes. We've chosen Ninh Bình because it offers a more immersive experience, where dramatic limestone mountains, winding rivers and rural villages can be explored on foot and at ground level. Rather than simply admiring the scenery, you'll experience life amongst it, creating a deeper connection with both the landscape and the people who call it home.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Transfer to Ninh Bình • Lunch • Hang Múa viewpoint • Dinner • Accommodation in Ninh Bình
Day 05 | Ninh Binh
Date : 21/01/2028
Pilgrimage and River Valleys | Traditions Before Tết
Highlights
Bái Đính Pagoda • Countryside breakfast picnic • Village cycling • Tam Cốc boat journey • Overnight sleeper train
Along the way
Pilgrims arrive at Bái Đính Pagoda carrying incense and offerings as preparations for Tết continue across northern Vietnam. One of the country's most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, its impressive temples and peaceful courtyards provide the setting to our morning discovery of the traditions, symbolism and quiet rituals that make this such a meaningful time of year.
A relaxed countryside breakfast picnic follows before we explore the surrounding villages by bicycle. Quiet lanes wind between rice fields, waterways and family homes where farmers tend their fields, children play outdoors and water buffalo graze beneath towering limestone cliffs, revealing the gentle rhythm of rural life.
The afternoon unfolds aboard a traditional sampan on the Ngô Đồng River, where dramatic limestone mountains, hidden caves and peaceful valleys reveal one of Vietnam's most iconic landscapes. Returning to Ninh Bình, we gather for dinner before boarding our overnight sleeper train, falling asleep in the countryside and waking in central Vietnam as the next chapter of our journey begins.
Behind the design
After the energy of Hanoi, we've deliberately slowed the pace in Ninh Bình. Exploring by bicycle, sharing breakfast in the countryside and drifting through Tam Cốc by sampan creates a relaxed finale before we continue south aboard an overnight sleeper train. We've turned the journey between two regions into another memorable part of the adventure while making the most of our time in central Vietnam.
Inclusions
Bái Đính Pagoda • Countryside breakfast picnic • Village cycling • Lunch • Tam Cốc boat journey • Dinner • Private sleeper compartment aboard the overnight train to Da Nang • Overnight on board
Day 06 | Hoi An
Date : 22/01/2028
Coastal Charm | Lanterns and Waterways
Highlights
Overnight train arrival • Coconut basket boat experience • Time to explore Hoi An
Along the way
Morning light reveals the colourful coastline of central Vietnam as our overnight train arrives in Da Nang. From here, we continue to the lantern lined streets of Hoi An, a beautifully preserved trading port where influences from China, Japan and Europe have shaped the town for centuries.
Following lunch, we discover another side of the region aboard traditional coconut basket boats. Guided through the peaceful waterways of the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, we learn how these distinctive boats have long been used by local fishing communities before enjoying the light hearted atmosphere that has made the experience one of Hoi An's most popular traditions.
Hoi An invites you to explore your own pace and time spent here reveals why this historic trading port continues to captivate visitors from around the world. Hundreds of lanterns illuminate the streets throughout the evening, while seasonal decorations and preparations for Tết reveal how traditions continue to shape everyday life in central Vietnam before we gather for dinner together.
Behind the design
Rather than spending much of today travelling, we've chosen to journey overnight, allowing us to wake in central Vietnam and begin exploring almost immediately. Pairing the overnight train with Hoi An's relaxed atmosphere creates a gentle transition between the dramatic landscapes of northern Vietnam and the excitement that still lies ahead.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Overnight train to Da Nang • Transfer to Hoi An • Lunch • Coconut basket boat experience • Dinner • Accommodation in Hoi An
Day 07 | Hoi An
Date : 23/01/2028
Mountains and Heritage | Bridges and Marble Peaks
Highlights
Golden Bridge • Ba Na Hills cable car • Marble Mountains • Free time in Hoi An
Along the way
High above the forests of Ba Na Hills, the Golden Bridge appears to float amongst the clouds, its remarkable stone hands supporting one of Vietnam's most recognisable landmarks. Reached by one of the world's longest cable car journeys, the views stretch across the surrounding mountains and coastline, revealing a spectacular perspective of central Vietnam.
Returning to sea level, Marble Mountains reveal another side of the region. Hidden caves, Buddhist sanctuaries and panoramic viewpoints are woven throughout these limestone peaks, where centuries of spirituality continue to shape everyday life. As families across central Vietnam make their final preparations for Tết, the temples offer a peaceful glimpse into the traditions that remain an important part of the celebrations.
Hoi An offers one final opportunity to wander beneath its colourful lanterns and seasonal Tết decorations before we gather for dinner together. Tomorrow brings another chapter of the journey, but tonight belongs to one of Vietnam's most charming towns.
Behind the design
Some experiences are worth setting the alarm for. By arriving before the crowds, we experience the Golden Bridge at its most peaceful, allowing you to appreciate one of Vietnam's most photographed landmarks in the quiet of the early morning. Combined with Marble Mountains later in the day, it creates a balanced introduction to the landscapes and heritage of central Vietnam.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Ba Na Hills cable car • Golden Bridge • Lunch • Marble Mountains • Dinner • Accommodation in Hoi An
Day 08 | Ho Chi Minh City
Date : 24/01/2028
Urban Energy | Vietnam in Motion
Highlights
Journey to Ho Chi Minh City • Guided scooter adventure • Time to explore Ho Chi Minh City • Bamboo Circus
Along the way
Riding pillion with experienced local drivers, we discover Ho Chi Minh City from the perspective of those who know it best. Our guided scooter adventure weaves between neighbourhoods and some of the city's most recognisable landmarks, including the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Saigon Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market and Notre Dame Cathedral. Along the way, elaborate floral displays, colourful decorations and lively streets reveal a city preparing to celebrate Tết on a truly remarkable scale.
With ample time to continue exploring Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace, we gather once again for dinner before spending the evening at the Bamboo Circus, where contemporary acrobatics, live Vietnamese music and theatrical storytelling offer a vibrant celebration of modern Vietnam ahead of tomorrow's Tết festivities.
Behind the design
We couldn't think of a more vibrant or authentic way to experience Ho Chi Minh City than aboard the scooters that have become synonymous with Vietnam. It's how millions of Vietnamese navigate their cities every day, making it one of the country's most recognisable and unforgettable experiences. Our Signature Welcome places you right in the heart of the action, immersing you in the sights, sounds and rhythm that define modern Ho Chi Minh City.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City • Guided scooter adventure • Lunch • Bamboo Circus • Dinner • Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 09 | Ho Chi Minh City
Date : 25/01/2028
Tết Eve | The City's Biggest Celebration
Highlights
Silver jewellery workshop • Free afternoon exploration • Tết Eve celebrations
Along the way
Guided by skilled local artisans, we transform sterling silver into a handcrafted piece to take home, creating a lasting reminder of our journey through Vietnam. Each piece is individually crafted, making it as unique as the experiences we've shared throughout the journey.
Wander Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant streets independently or join your Tour Director for a more structured exploration as the city transforms in anticipation of the celebrations ahead. However you choose to spend the afternoon, there's plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere before we come together once again.
This evening, we gather for a celebratory group dinner before heading out to experience Ho Chi Minh City's Tết Eve celebrations together. From colourful festival streets to the city's spectacular midnight fireworks, your Tour Director will lead those wishing to remain with the group, while guests are equally welcome to continue the celebrations independently.
Behind the design
Ho Chi Minh City embraces Tết like nowhere else in Vietnam. Long before the celebrations reach their peak, the streets fill with elaborate floral displays, live entertainment and an unmistakable sense of excitement as the entire city prepares to welcome the Lunar New Year. Rather than competing for your attention with a full day of sightseeing, we've deliberately designed today to embrace the celebrations that inspired us to end our journey here in the first place.
Inclusions
Leisurely breakfast • Silver jewellery workshop • Tết Eve celebrations dinner • Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 10 | Ho Chi Minh City
Date : 26/01/2028
Stories and Celebration | A Farewell to Vietnam
Highlights
Cu Chi Tunnels • Traditional Vietnamese massage • Free time in Ho Chi Minh City • Farewell dinner cruise
Along the way
The celebrations may have come to an end, but Vietnam still has one remarkable story left to tell. At the Cu Chi Tunnels, we explore an extraordinary underground network that played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War, offering a powerful insight into the resilience, ingenuity and determination of those who lived through one of the country's most defining chapters.
Returning to the city, a traditional Vietnamese massage offers the opportunity to relax and unwind after the excitement of the previous evening. With free time to enjoy the city at your own pace, there's space to savour a final afternoon in Ho Chi Minh City before we gather once more.
A luxury dinner cruise on the Saigon River provides a spectacular setting to end our final full day in Vietnam.As Ho Chi Minh City's illuminated skyline glides past, live entertainment, exceptional dining and spectacular waterfront views create a vibrant finale to our final full day in Vietnam, revealing yet another perspective of this remarkable city after dark.
Behind the design
After the excitement of Tết, we've balanced one of Vietnam's most significant historical experiences with time to relax before ending the day aboard one of Ho Chi Minh City's premier dinner cruises. It provides a fitting contrast between Vietnam's past and present while showcasing the city's spectacular skyline after dark.
Inclusions
Late breakfast • Cu Chi Tunnels • Traditional Vietnamese massage • Farewell dinner cruise • Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 11 | Ho Chi Minh City
Date : 27/01/2028
Tạm biệt | Until We Meet Again
Highlights
Farewell breakfast
Our journey comes to a gentle close this morning as we gather for one final breakfast together before departures begin. There's time for one last conversation, another cup of coffee and a final opportunity to reflect on the remarkable journey we've shared through Vietnam during its most meaningful celebration.
Over the past eleven days, we've experienced Vietnam through the traditions of Tết, from the flower markets and ancient temples of Hanoi to the peaceful landscapes of Ninh Bình, the lantern lined streets of Hoi An and the unforgettable celebrations of Ho Chi Minh City. We hope you'll return home with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam's rich culture, warm hospitality and the traditions that make this remarkable time of year so special.
When the time comes, we transfer to the airport for our onward journeys. While our time together may be coming to an end, we hope the experiences we've shared continue to inspire new adventures for years to come.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Airport transfer
Hanoi and Tết preparations
- Old Quarter street food experience
- Guided visit to Quảng Bá pre-dawn flower market
- Vietnamese coffee culture workshop
- Guided cultural visits including temples and ancestral traditions during Tết
Signature Ninh Bình experiences
- Hang Múa viewpoint experience
- Sunrise visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda
- Countryside village cycling through rice fields
- Tam Coc river boat journey through limestone landscapes
Signature Hội An experiences
- Coconut basket boat experience with local lunch
- Early morning visit to the Golden Bridge
- Marble Mountains exploration
- Evening exploration of Hội An during Tết
Signature Ho Chi Minh City experiences
- Guided scooter adventure with local drivers
- Bamboo Circus performance
- Silver jewellery workshop with local artisans
- Tết Eve celebrations
- Cu Chi Tunnels experience
- Traditional Vietnamese massage
- Luxury farewell dinner cruise on the Saigon River
Food and dining
- 10 included breakfasts
- 6 included lunches
- 10 included dinners
- While many are shared experiences, selected evenings offer the flexibility to enjoy dinner independently if you prefer to discover somewhere of your own
- A selection of local restaurants showcasing regional cuisine and seasonal specialities
- Experiences ranging from street food and Vietnamese dishes to refined riverside dining
Accommodation
- 3 nights in Hanoi
- 1 night in Ninh Binh
- 1 night aboard the Laman Express
- 2 nights in Hội An
- 3 nights in Ho Chi Minh City
- Accommodation is minimum 3-star standard, with exceptional unrated properties chosen when they offer a more memorable experience
- All rooms are private and include en-suite bathrooms
Transport and logistics
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- Domestic flight within Vietnam included:
- Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City
- Overnight two person sleeper train included:
- Ninh Bình to Da Nang
- Private transport between experiences and excursions included
- All entrance fees and logistical arrangements handled throughout
Guidance and support
- Fully guided throughout by a dedicated tour leader and knowledgeable local hosts
- Cultural insight and thoughtful guidance woven throughout the journey
- Seamless coordination throughout, allowing you to stay present in the experience
The Three Tenths Promise
- Maximum 12 guests • Every journey is limited to twelve guests, or fewer
- Inclusive pricing • All gratuities for guides, transport and activities are included throughout
- No "optional" up-selling • Every experience is included because we believe it belongs in the journey
- Thoughtfully paced • Structure when it matters. Freedom when it doesn't
- Hand selected stays • Every stay is personally visited before it's included because where you stay shapes how you experience a destination
Our accommodation
- Our accommodation throughout the journey has been carefully selected to reflect the atmosphere and contrast of each destination, balancing vibrant city stays with peaceful countryside settings and heritage accommodation
- In Hanoi, properties are chosen for their character, comfort, and proximity to the cultural neighbourhoods and experiences that shape the opening days of Tết preparations
- In Ninh Bình, accommodation reflects the slower rhythm of the countryside, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by limestone landscapes and rice fields
- In Hội An, properties place us within easy reach of the lantern lined streets and riverside atmosphere that make the ancient town so special during Tết
- In Ho Chi Minh City, our centrally located accommodation places us close to the city's spectacular Tết celebrations, making it easy to experience the vibrant atmosphere both day and night
- Across all locations, properties have been selected not for excess, but for comfort, atmosphere, and ease throughout the journey
- All rooms are private and include en suite bathrooms
Arrival and departure days
- Airport transfers are included for all guests arriving on Day 1 and departing on the final day of the journey
- Arrival day is intentionally designed with flexibility in mind, allowing time to settle into the hotel, explore the surrounding neighbourhood, or simply pause before the journey begins
- Our first shared experience takes place in the late afternoon on Day 1, allowing guests arriving earlier in the day time to comfortably transfer from the airport and settle in before meeting the group
- Hotel check in is typically available from 3:00pm onwards. Guests arriving earlier may store luggage with the hotel prior to check in
- Your tour host will be waiting to welcome you at the hotel on arrival day, offering assistance with check in and luggage storage where needed, along with recommendations for exploring the surrounding neighbourhood before the journey begins
- On departure day, no activities are planned beyond breakfast, allowing flexibility for onward travel arrangements
- We recommend booking onward flights departing from midday onwards on the final day to allow comfortable transfer time to the airport
Festival timing
- Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is the most important cultural celebration in Vietnam, with festivities unfolding over several days according to the lunar calendar
- In the days leading up to Tết, cities and towns transform as families prepare ancestral altars, decorate homes with flowers and lanterns, and gather for reunion celebrations
- Markets become especially vibrant during this period, filled with peach blossoms, kumquat trees, flowers, traditional foods, and seasonal decorations
- During Tết itself, many businesses temporarily close as families spend time together, honour ancestors, and participate in traditions marking the beginning of the new year
- Our journey is intentionally timed to experience Tết as it unfolds, from the anticipation and preparation in the days leading up to the Lunar New Year to the vibrant celebrations that bring Vietnam's biggest festival to life
What to expect
- Tết carries a unique atmosphere that shifts between lively public celebration and quieter moments centered around family, ritual, and reflection
- Cities may feel busier in the days leading into Tết, particularly in markets, train stations, and shopping districts as preparations intensify
- As our journey progresses, you'll experience both the quieter traditions of Tết and the vibrant public celebrations that unfold in Ho Chi Minh City, revealing the festival through very different perspectives
- Many experiences throughout the itinerary are centered around culture, ritual, food, craftsmanship, and community rather than fast paced sightseeing
- Lantern displays, floral decorations, incense, ancestral offerings, and seasonal foods become part of daily life throughout the journey
Why this region
- Hanoi offers an atmospheric introduction to Tết traditions, where markets, temples, and daily street life reflect the anticipation and preparation surrounding the Lunar New Year
- Ninh Bình provides a quieter and more reflective setting, where rural landscapes and slower rhythms reveal another side of Vietnamese life during Tết
- Hội An offers a beautifully preserved heritage setting, where lantern lit streets, riverside traditions, and centuries of history create an intimate celebration of the Lunar New Year
- Ho Chi Minh City provides a spectacular finale, where elaborate floral displays, festive streets, and the remarkable energy of Vietnam's largest city showcase Tết on its grandest scale
- The journey moves intentionally between energetic cities and peaceful countryside, revealing the many ways Vietnam celebrates its most important festival
- Travelling during Tết offers a deeper cultural perspective into Vietnamese traditions, family life, and seasonal rituals rarely experienced during ordinary travel periods
Seasonal weather
- January in northern and central Vietnam generally brings mild and comfortable weather conditions
- Hanoi and Ninh Bình typically experience temperatures between 15°C and 23°C / 59°F to 73°F, with cooler mornings and evenings
- Central Vietnam, including Hội An, is usually warm and comfortable, with daytime temperatures between 22°C and 28°C / 72°F to 82°F
- Ho Chi Minh City is warmer and more tropical, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 30°C and 34°C / 86°F to 93°F
- Light rain is possible in central Vietnam, though January is generally comfortable for sightseeing throughout the journey
- Humidity is typically lower than during Vietnam’s summer months, creating more comfortable travel conditions throughout the journey
Visa requirements
- Visa and entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, passport, and country of residence
- Guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all passport, visa, transit, vaccination, and entry requirements for Vietnam
- We recommend checking official government travel advice and visa information well in advance of departure, as requirements can occasionally change without notice
- Vietnam may require visa applications, online pre registration, proof of onward travel, accommodation details, or minimum passport validity periods
- Your passport should generally have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of arrival, have sufficient pages for entry and exit stamps, and generally be in good condition (unless otherwise stated by local authorities)
- Once your booking is confirmed, additional guidance and supporting travel information will be provided where relevant
- Official visa information for Vietnam can be found here (this page does take a few moments to load)
Practical considerations
- This journey includes moderate walking through historic streets, temples, markets, countryside paths, and riverside areas
- Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight layers, and a light rain jacket are recommended throughout the journey
During Tết, some shops, restaurants, and businesses may temporarily close, creating a different rhythm to daily life compared to other times of year - Domestic travel periods around Tết can be busier than usual, particularly in airports and transport hubs
- Festival periods may attract both local visitors and travellers, particularly in the days immediately leading into Lunar New Year celebrations
- The itinerary has been designed to balance cultural immersion, seasonal celebration, quieter reflection, and comfortable pacing throughout the journey
Flights and arrival
- International airfare to and from Vietnam: Multi city international airfare required
- Arrive: Hanoi (HAN)
- Depart: Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
Travel requirements
- Travel insurance (required for participation)
- Relevant visas where applicable (see Travel notes section)
Personal expenses and free time options
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
- Personal purchases and incidental expenses
- Optional activities during periods of free time
Yes, Tết is one of the most meaningful and culturally rich times to experience Vietnam. While it is the country’s most important holiday, it is also a period filled with flowers, traditions, ancestral rituals, street markets, lanterns, and local celebrations.
The atmosphere throughout the journey shifts between lively celebration and quieter reflective moments, offering a deeper cultural experience beyond everyday travel.
Some local businesses, family run restaurants, and smaller shops may close temporarily during the main public holiday days as families gather together to celebrate. However, this is already considered throughout the itinerary planning.
Experiences, restaurants, and activities included within the journey are carefully selected around the holiday rhythm to ensure the experience remains smooth, immersive, and enjoyable.
Absolutely. This journey has been intentionally designed for travellers experiencing Vietnam for the first time. The itinerary balances cultural immersion, guided experiences, quieter countryside settings, and comfortable accommodations throughout the journey.
With a dedicated tour leader and local hosts, guests are supported while still having space to experience Vietnam in an authentic and meaningful way.
Tết carries a very unique atmosphere that blends celebration, family tradition, reflection, and renewal. Streets fill with flowers, decorations, food stalls, and local gatherings in the lead up to the new year, while temples and homes become places of prayer, offerings, and reconnection.
In some moments the atmosphere feels vibrant and festive, while in others it becomes unexpectedly calm and reflective as families spend time together.
Vietnamese cuisine is incredibly varied and is often known for its balance of fresh herbs, broths, grilled dishes, rice, seafood, and vibrant flavours rather than intense spice.
The journey includes a thoughtful mix of street food experiences, local restaurants, cooking experiences, and more relaxed dining settings.
Guests are always able to explore at their own comfort level, and dietary preferences can usually be accommodated when advised in advance.