16-Day Luxury Vietnam and Thailand Itinerary: Cultural Immersion & Coastal Relaxation

Day 1: Arrival & Old Quarter

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 1, 2025

9:00am

Airport Arrival & Transfer

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport and transfer 30-45 minutes to your luxury hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter for check-in and relaxation.
Included with hotel booking, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a stylish setting that features street-food inspired dishes bursting with flavor.
VND200000, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Stroll around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple on the lake’s island, a cultural and spiritual landmark.
VND30000, 1h

3:30pm

Discover Old Quarter

Wander the vibrant streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, famous for its colonial architecture, street vendors, and artisan shops.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Home Restaurant

Experience refined Northern Vietnamese dishes in a warm and intimate atmosphere, perfect for your first night.
VND500000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Historical Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Hanoi Social Club

Start your day with fresh organic food and excellent coffee in this cozy café popular among locals and travelers.
VND150000, 1h

9:30am

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Surroundings

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex including the Presidential Palace and the historic One Pillar Pagoda; arrive early as it closes around noon.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at KOTO Van Mieu

Highly recommended restaurant supporting youth education; serves delicious Vietnamese specialties in a comfortable setting near Temple of Literature.
VND250000, 1h

1:30pm

Temple of Literature

Explore this historic Confucian temple and Vietnam’s first university, showcasing traditional architecture and serene gardens.
VND30000, 1h

3:00pm

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover diverse Vietnamese cultures through immersive exhibits and artifacts, open daily from 8am to 5:30pm.
VND40000, 1.5h

5:00pm

Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Theatre

Catch this traditional Vietnamese performance unique to Hanoi, showcasing folklore and rural life with live music.
VND120000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine

Elegant dining with views of Hoan Kiem Lake, offering classic Vietnamese dishes with a contemporary twist.
VND600000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Culinary Experience

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 3, 2025

7:30am

Vietnamese Cooking Class & Market Tour

Join a half-day class that includes exploring a vibrant local market followed by hands-on instruction in cooking traditional dishes, lasting about 5 hours.
USD85, 5h

1:00pm

Lunch Enjoyed During Class

Eat the dishes you prepared in class, served fresh with authentic flavors.
Included, 1h

3:00pm

Afternoon Free Time

Relax at your hotel or visit a custom tailor in the Old Quarter to experience bespoke Vietnamese tailoring.
Varies, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Madame Hien

Enjoy classic Northern Vietnamese meals served in an elegant colonial villa setting, perfect for a refined evening experience.
VND400000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Ninh Binh Day Tour

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on December 4, 2025

7:00am

Private Transfer to Ninh Binh

Travel approximately 2 hours by private car to Ninh Binh for an immersive day of natural and cultural sites.
Included in tour, 2h

9:30am

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Visit the former imperial capital’s temples amidst lush karst landscape, demonstrating Vietnam’s early history.
VND150000, 1h

10:45am

Climb Hang Mua Viewpoint

Ascend to panoramic views of Tam Coc rice fields and limestone mountains from this popular viewpoint.
VND100000, 1h

12:00pm

Seafood Lunch at Local Restaurant

Dine on fresh river fish and other local specialties in a charming riverside setting.
VND250000, 1h

1:30pm

Boat Ride through Trang An Grottoes

Explore scenic caves and emerald waters by traditional boat, a tranquil experience highlighting natural splendor.
VND200000, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Tour this peaceful pagoda complex built into limestone cliffs with impressive views.
VND100000, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Hanoi

Private transfer of 2 hours back to Hanoi to relax or explore the city at leisure.
Included in tour, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Gourmet Corner Restaurant

Sample elevated Vietnamese dishes with a modern presentation in Hanoi’s French Quarter.
VND450000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Leisure & Local Life

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Giảng

Taste the famous egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty, at this historic café in the Old Quarter.
VND50000, 1h

9:30am

Free Morning - Shopping & Spa

Explore boutiques and silk shops or enjoy a traditional Vietnamese spa treatment to unwind.
Varies, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Xoi Yen

Try a local favorite—sticky rice with savory toppings—in a no-frills but authentic eatery.
VND70000, 1h

2:30pm

Visit West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda

Take a relaxed afternoon stroll around Hanoi’s largest lake and see the oldest Buddhist temple in the city.
VND20000, 2h

5:00pm

Explore French Quarter

Admire colonial architecture and stop for coffee or cocktails at a stylish café or bar.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Relish Hanoi’s signature grilled fish dish served tableside with fresh herbs and rice noodles.
VND400000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cat Ba Island Arrival

Cat Ba Island, Vietnam on December 6, 2025

7:00am

Private Transfer and Ferry to Cat Ba

Travel approximately 2.5 to 3 hours combining private car and ferry transfers to reach Cat Ba Island with ease.
Included, 3h

10:30am

Check-In at Hotel Perle d'Orient

Settle into your upscale accommodation known for exceptional service and prime location on Cat Ba.
Pre-booked, 30m

11:30am

Relax at Cat Co Beach

Enjoy the sun and sea at a beautiful sandy beach with calm waters, perfect for an afternoon unwind.
Free, 2h

2:00pm

Visit Cannon Fort

Explore this historic fortress with panoramic views over Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba town; ideal for photos and history enthusiasts.
VND80000, 1.5h

5:00pm

Sunset at Hotel or Beachfront Restaurant

Dine at a nearby beachfront restaurant savoring fresh seafood as the sun sets over the bay.
VND400000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam on December 7, 2025

8:00am

Board Orchid Cruise

Embark on a luxury overnight cruise with Orchid Cruise company, featuring kayaking through limestone karsts and visits to floating fishing villages.
USD300 per person, 2h

10:00am

Kayaking & Sightseeing

Explore secluded lagoons and limestone caves via kayak, enjoying tranquility and natural beauty.
Included in cruise, 3h

1:00pm

Seafood Lunch on Board

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch prepared onboard using local ingredients while cruising the bay.
Included, 1h

2:00pm

Swimming & Relaxation

Swim in clear waters or relax on deck appreciating the spectacular scenery and sunset later from the cruise.
Included, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner & Overnight on Board

Savor dinner under the stars aboard the cruise, creating a peaceful and memorable experience on Lan Ha Bay.
Included, Overnight
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Travel to Koh Samui

Hanoi to Koh Samui via Bangkok on December 8, 2025

7:00am

Disembark & Transfer to Hanoi Airport

Cruise ends early morning; transfer back to Hanoi airport for your connecting flight to Koh Samui.
Included, 1.5h

10:00am

Flight Hanoi to Koh Samui via Bangkok

Fly from Hanoi to Bangkok then connect to Koh Samui; total travel about 6–7 hours including transit and layovers.
USD150–200, 6h

4:00pm

Arrival & Check-In at Four Seasons Resort

Upon arrival, transfer 30-45 minutes to your luxury beachfront resort to relax and unwind.
Pre-booked, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Edge Beach Restaurant

Savor exquisite Thai and international cuisine with stunning ocean views to welcome your island stay.
THB1500, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Island Exploration

Koh Samui, Thailand on December 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Resort

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the sea, with fresh fruit, Thai specialties, and international options.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Fisherman’s Village

Explore charming shops, cafes, and small markets in this popular seaside township known for its relaxed vibe.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fisherman’s Restaurant

Sample local seafood dishes right by the water, featuring freshly caught fish and traditional flavors.
THB700, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Chaweng Beach

Sunbathe, swim, or stroll along the wide, white sandy beach known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful setting.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Barracuda Restaurant

Enjoy sophisticated Thai and Mediterranean-influenced dishes in an intimate garden setting.
THB1200, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Relax & Wellness

Koh Samui, Thailand on December 10, 2025

8:00am

Optional Thai Cooking Class & Market Visit

Join a morning class including a visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients followed by hands-on preparation.
THB2500, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cooking Class Venue

Enjoy eating the dishes you prepared during the cooking class in a scenic setting.
Included, 1h

2:00pm

Spa Treatment at Resort

Indulge in a traditional Thai massage or wellness treatment to revitalize your body and mind.
THB3500, 2h

5:00pm

Poolside Relaxation

Spend the late afternoon relaxing at your resort pool or on the private beach.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Jungle Club

Dine with panoramic views atop a hill, enjoying fusion cuisine and sunset vistas.
THB1200, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Snorkeling Adventure

Koh Samui, Thailand on December 11, 2025

7:30am

Boat Trip to Koh Tao or Koh Nang Yuan

Embark on a 1.5–2 hour round-trip speedboat tour to pristine snorkeling spots with vibrant coral and marine life.
THB3500, 2h

10:00am

Snorkeling and Swimming

Spend the morning exploring underwater wonders in crystal-clear waters at top snorkeling locations.
Included, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch on Board or Island

Enjoy a fresh seafood or picnic style lunch during your excursion.
Included, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Koh Samui

Relax on the boat ride back taking in scenic views as the afternoon winds down.
Included, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Zazen Restaurant

Dine in a romantic garden setting serving traditional Thai cuisine with a modern twist.
THB1300, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Cultural Exploration

Koh Samui, Thailand on December 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Resort

Enjoy a relaxed morning meal with ocean views to prepare for your day of cultural discovery.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Big Buddha & Wat Plai Laem

Explore two iconic temples featuring impressive statues and tranquil lakeside settings, easily accessible within 30-40 minutes by car.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at a Local Thai Restaurant

Savor authentic Thai flavors at a nearby well-regarded local venue close to the temples.
THB600, 1h

2:00pm

Optional Waterfalls or Elephant Sanctuary

Choose between visiting scenic Na Muang Waterfalls or an ethical elephant sanctuary for up-close wildlife encounters.
THB1000–1500, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Barracuda Restaurant

Return to Barracuda for another memorable meal or try the nearby Fisherman’s Village night market for a casual option.
THB900–1200, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Ang Thong Marine Park

Koh Samui, Thailand on December 13, 2025

7:30am

Boat Trip to Ang Thong Marine Park

Experience kayaking, hiking, and exploration in this stunning marine national park featuring limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons; 1.5 hours each way by boat.
THB3000, 8h

12:00pm

Lunch at Marine Park

Enjoy a picnic or boat-prepared meal surrounded by pristine nature on the islands.
Included, 1h

4:30pm

Return to Resort

Relax after your day of adventure, soaking in the views and calm of your beachfront retreat.
Included, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Jungle Club

Celebrate your day with gourmet dining overlooking Koh Samui’s lush landscapes at twilight.
THB1500, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Travel to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on December 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & Check-Out

Enjoy a final breakfast at your resort before packing and checking out for your flight.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Transfer to Koh Samui Airport

Private transfer approximately 30-45 minutes to the airport for your direct flight to Bangkok.
Included, 45m

12:00pm

Flight to Bangkok

Fly approximately one hour to Bangkok for the final stage of your journey.
USD80, 1h

1:30pm

Check-In at The Siam Hotel

Transfer to your luxury Bangkok hotel known for exceptional service and riverfront elegance.
Pre-booked, 45m

3:00pm

Visit Jim Thompson House

Explore the historic teak wood home of Jim Thompson, showcasing traditional Thai architecture and art, open until 6pm.
THB200, 1h

5:00pm

Shopping at Siam Paragon

Experience luxury shopping and cultural exhibitions in one of Bangkok’s premier shopping centers.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Bo.lan

Enjoy Michelin-starred traditional Thai cuisine emphasizing organic ingredients in an elegant atmosphere.
THB2500, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Bangkok Highlights

Bangkok, Thailand on December 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at The Siam to fuel your cultural excursions.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Grand Palace & Wat Pho

Visit the magnificent Grand Palace complex and nearby Wat Pho to see the reclining Buddha; the sites open from 8:30am and best visited early to avoid crowds.
THB500, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Deck by Arun Residence

Dine with river views and Thai fusion dishes near the iconic Wat Arun temple.
THB900, 1h

2:30pm

Chao Phraya River Cruise

Take a scenic river cruise to experience Bangkok’s historic landmarks from the water, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
THB1500, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Chinatown or Asiatique Night Market

Choose between the bustling street food and shopping of Chinatown or the riverside open-air mood of Asiatique, both lively in evenings.
Free Entrance, 3h

8:00pm

Dinner Sampling Street Food or Market Favorites

Indulge in local delicacies and vibrant nightlife options at your chosen market area.
Varies, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Departure Day

Bangkok, Thailand on December 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Check-Out

Have an early breakfast at the hotel, finishing last-minute packing for your flight home.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Transfer to Airport

Private transfer approximately 45 minutes to Suvarnabhumi International Airport for your departing flight.
Included, 45m
View Hotel Availability