Vietnam Express - Treasures of the East

Day 1 : Saigon

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, where comfort and relaxation awaits. Take some time to unwind before joining your fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception Dinner, offering a perfect introduction to Vietnam’s culinary heritage and a chance to connect with new friends.

Day 2 : Saigon

Begin your day in Saigon with time to unwind at your hotel. You can opt for a morning excursion to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels by private speedboat. You will cruise along the Saigon River into the countryside, then explore the vast underground network used by Viet Cong fighters. Enjoy a delicious lunch en route before returning to the city.

This afternoon, delve into Saigon’s layered past with a guided tour of its key landmarks, including the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral, the French colonial Central Post Office, the former Presidential Palace, and the poignant War Remnants Museum. Pause to sample street coffee while your guide offers a short Vietnamese language lesson and insight into local daily life. As evening falls, take time to explore the bustling energy of Nguyen Hue Walking Street, alive with lights, music, and open-air markets. For a special cultural treat, opt to attend the A O Show at the Saigon Opera House — a vibrant blend of acrobatics, dance, and traditional Vietnamese storytelling. Return to your hotel after the experience.

Day 3 : Saigon

Today begins at leisure in the heart of Saigon. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at the Park Hyatt before taking time to unwind or explore at your own pace — perhaps a gentle stroll through the city’s buzzing boulevards to soak up its vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, board the Vietnam Express train and settle in for a gourmet lunch as the train begins its journey north toward Hoi An. Spend a serene afternoon on board, with gracious service and comfort.

Day 4 Da Nang > Hoi An

Step off your train in Da Nang and prepare to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of central Vietnam with a choice of two unforgettable excursions.

Option one: Start at the beguiling town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its cobbled, lantern-lined streets on a guided walking tour, discovering a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architecture in merchant houses, temples, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Explore the bustling market, famed for its silk and tailoring, where centuries-old traditions still thrive. Continue your journey with a peaceful cruise along the Thu Bon River to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where artisans have crafted ceramics for generations. Enjoy a hands-on pottery experience, then create your own silk lantern — a cherished symbol of Hoi An’s cultural soul.

Option two: Journey deep into the forested valley of My Son, a sacred Hindu site once the spiritual heart of the Champa Kingdom. Explore its crumbling temple towers dedicated to Shiva and marvel at the intricate carvings that whisper tales of a lost empire. A live Champa dance performance brings the ancient rituals and artistry of this UNESCO-listed sanctuary to life.

Day 5 : Ninh Binh

Arriving into Ninh Binh, embark on a captivating journey, beginning with a visit to Hoa Lu — the 10th and 11th-century capital of Vietnam. Here, amidst scenic limestone karsts and temple ruins, uncover the legacies of the Dinh and Le dynasties that laid the foundation for the nation’s early identity. We then retreat to the serene Emeralda Tam Coc Resort for a leisurely lunch, served against the backdrop of Ninh Binh’s dramatic landscapes. In the afternoon, glide through the tranquil waters of Thung Nang aboard a traditional sampan. The journey continues with an exhilarating open-air jeep tour, venturing off the beaten path through rustic villages and verdant rice paddies. Return to the Vietnam Express, where dinner awaits.

Day 6 : Ha Long Bay

This morning depart for enchanting Ha Long Bay, where your private cruise awaits at the pier. Set sail across the emerald waters of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where towering cliffs rise dramatically from the sea. Leaving the main route behind, venture into the quieter, unspoiled beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay. A gourmet lunch is served on board. Early afternoon, immerse yourself in the rhythm of waterborne life at Vung Vieng, a traditional floating fishing village.

Optional activities: Choose between a self-rowed kayak adventure or a gentle ride in a rustic rowing boat guided by a local — an intimate window into a way of life that has endured for generations. Alternatively, simply unwind on deck, soaking in the serenity of the bay.

Later, arrive at Hon Co Island, where those seeking further exploration may visit the hidden Thien Canh Son cave, a cavern adorned with stalactites and soft natural light. Or, continue sailing through the tranquil seascape, enjoying uninterrupted views as the sun sets.

Day 7 : Hanoi

Begin your final day in Vietnam immersed in Hanoi’s Old Quarter with a one-hour cyclo tour, weaving through the legendary “36 Streets of 36 Wares.” This labyrinth of narrow lanes, named after the artisan guilds that once flourished here, reveals Hanoi’s eclectic soul. As your cyclo glides past hidden courtyards and vibrant shopfronts, you’ll soak in the living history of this dynamic district.

Next, visit the serene Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in the 11th century. This architectural treasure invites quiet contemplation amid tranquil courtyards and pavilions that echo Vietnam’s scholarly traditions.

An optional visit is available to Hoa Lo Prison — grimly nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton” – for a powerful insight into Vietnam’s turbulent past.

Return to the station where a final local lunch is served aboard the Vietnam Express. As the train glides north toward the Chinese border, you’ll transition to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express for a welcome dinner, marking the beginning of the next chapter of your journey.

Day 8 : Guilin

This morning, wake up for the first time aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. Indulge in breakfast before we reach Guilin, a breathtaking haven where nature’s artistry takes centre stage, offering a front-row view of landscapes that evoke the beauty of traditional Chinese scroll paintings.

Embark on an enchanting private cruise along the Lijiang River from Guilin to Yangshuo. As we glide along this legendary waterway, the ever-shifting scenery of misty valleys, jagged peaks and mirror-still waters unfolds. As evening descends upon Yangshuo, we board an exclusive fishing boat for a serene sunset voyage, witnessing the age-old tradition of cormorant fishing — an atmospheric finale to the day.

Day 9 : Guangzhou

Today we explore the culinary delights and cultural treasures of Guangzhou, beginning with an exquisite Guangzhou Dim sum experience. This curated dining experience showcases the artistry of dim sum, reflecting Guangzhou’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Afterward, step into the timeless charm of the Shamian District and Yongqing Fang Square for a leisurely stroll. Shamian, a historic island, captivates with its colonial-era architecture, tree-lined streets, and serene riverside ambiance, offering a glimpse into Guangzhou’s cosmopolitan past. Continue to Yongqing Fang Square, a revitalised cultural hub where traditional Lingnan-style buildings house trendy cafes, artisan shops, and galleries. Wander at your own pace, soaking in the blend of old and new before reboarding the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express for lunch and time at leisure.

Day 10 : Jingdezhen

Begin your day in Jingdezhen, China’s legendary porcelain capital, with a visit to the Jingdezhen Chinese Ceramic Museum — a world-class showcase of over 2,000 years of ceramic artistry. Explore galleries filled with Song dynasty celadons and Ming vases, while expert guides share the stories of emperors and artisans.

Continue to the Ancient Kilns & Folk Customs Expo Area, where centuries-old dragon kilns still burn. Here, amid restored workshops and wood-fired furnaces, you’ll enjoy a rare opportunity to work alongside master potters. Under their expert guidance, take part in a hands-on porcelain experience — shaping, carving, and painting your own ceramic creation using time-honoured techniques. As the afternoon draws to a close, rejoin the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express for your onward journey to Yichang.

Day 11 : Wuyi Mountains

This morning, your train arrives into the breathtaking Wuyi Mountainss. For those who choose, begin the day with an optional Jiuqu River experience — gliding gently along its winding course aboard a traditional bamboo raft. Framed by lush forest and soaring cliffs, this peaceful journey offers an intimate encounter with the natural splendour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the afternoon, delve into the rich heritage of Wuyi’s most treasured export with the Wuyi Mountain Tea Culture Experience. At a renowned tea estate, discover the refined art of cultivating and crafting oolong tea, including the legendary Da Hong Pao. Enjoy a guided tasting session, where each cup reveals the depth, aroma, and character that have made Wuyi teas revered across centuries. This evening, return to the train for a memorable farewell dinner aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express — an elegant celebration of the journey shared.

Day 12 : Shanghai

After a leisurely morning and lunch aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, your Shanghai adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Shanghai Tower—China’s tallest skyscraper. Rising to 632 metres, this architectural marvel is home to the J Hotel’s celestial lounge, where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable afternoon tea on the 120th floor. Sip rare teas and sample exquisite pastries infused with local flavours, all while gazing out across a breathtaking panorama.

As evening falls, step aboard a luxurious private yacht for an enchanting night cruise along the Huangpu River. Drift past Shanghai’s illuminated skyline, where the glowing colonial façades of the Bund meet the dazzling skyscrapers of Pudong, including the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower. As city lights shimmer on the water, enjoy a bespoke dinner blending Shanghainese flair with international cuisine, perfectly paired with fine wines.

Day 13 : Shanghai

This morning, we have an optional visit to the enchanting Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, a picturesque water town just outside Shanghai, often called the “Venice of the East.” Embark on a peaceful sculling boat ride through the town’s tranquil canals, gliding past charming stone bridges, ancient residences, and willow-lined waterways.

Your expert guide will share the rich history of this 1,700-year-old town, highlighting its Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and vibrant local culture. Stroll along cobbled streets to explore quaint shops, traditional teahouses, and historic landmarks like the Fangsheng Bridge.

Those who want to explore the local cuisine of Shanghai can opt for an exclusive cooking class. Guided by a local chef, explore a vibrant local market to select fresh ingredients, then craft iconic dishes like xiaolongbao in a private kitchen. Savour your creations in an elegant setting, gaining insights into Shanghai’s rich culinary heritage.

The afternoon is at your leisure to unwind or explore Shanghai’s dynamic offerings. As the day concludes, gather for our Farewell Dinner, a fitting tribute to the incredible experiences shared on this journey.

Day 14 : Shanghai

Your journey concludes with private transfers to Shanghai Airport.