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12-Day Vietnam Cultural and Culinary Adventure Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Welcome to Hanoi

Morning

Start your journey with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This iconic site is a must-see for anyone visiting Hanoi. The mausoleum is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader who played a crucial role in Vietnam's history. The solemn atmosphere and grand architecture make it a deeply moving experience.

Afternoon

After the mausoleum, head over to Presidential Palace, which is located nearby. This beautiful French colonial building offers a glimpse into Vietnam's political history. Afterward, enjoy lunch at Quan An Ngon, known for its wide variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes served in a charming setting.

Evening

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake). The lake is beautifully lit up at night and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. For dinner, dine at Duong's Restaurant & Cooking Class, where you can enjoy delicious Vietnamese cuisine and even participate in a cooking class if you wish.

Bedtime

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4.72
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
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4.95
Presidential Palace
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Historical and Cultural Insights

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam's first national university. This ancient temple is dedicated to Confucius and scholars, offering beautiful gardens and well-preserved architecture.

Afternoon

Next, explore the Vietnam National Museum of History to delve deeper into Vietnam's rich history. For lunch, head to The Hanoi Social Club, a cozy café known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food.

Evening

In the evening, visit the famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre for an enchanting performance that showcases traditional Vietnamese water puppetry. End your day with dinner at Essence Restaurant, which offers an exquisite dining experience with both local and international dishes.

Bedtime

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4.67
Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam)
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4.94
Vietnam National Museum of History
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Exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter

Morning

Start your day by exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi Old Quarter. This area is famous for its narrow streets filled with shops selling everything from souvenirs to street food. Don't miss out on trying some local delicacies as you wander around.

Afternoon

After exploring the Old Quarter, visit the historic St Joseph’s Cathedral (Nha Tho Lon), an impressive neo-Gothic church that stands as one of Hanoi's most notable landmarks. For lunch, dine at Green Tangerine, housed in a beautifully restored colonial villa offering French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine.

Evening

Conclude your day with a visit to the vibrant Dong Xuan Market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and experience local life. Enjoy dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long, renowned for its delectable cha ca (grilled fish) dish.

Bedtime

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4.60
Hanoi Old Quarter
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4.79
St Joseph’s Cathedral (Nha Tho Lon)
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Artistic and Scenic Delights

Morning

Begin your morning with a visit to the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), one of Hanoi's oldest pagodas located on West Lake. The tranquil setting provides an excellent start to your day.

Afternoon

Next, head over to explore more about Vietnamese culture at the fascinating Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME). For lunch, stop by at Home Hanoi Restaurant which offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an elegant setting.

Evening

Spend your evening enjoying some artistic performances or exhibitions at Hanoi Opera House (Nha Hat Lon). End your day with dinner at Sen Trang An Vietnamese Restaurant which provides an extensive buffet featuring various traditional dishes.

Bedtime

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4.70
Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc)
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4.63
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME)
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Cruising Ha Long Bay

Morning

Start your day early with a transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. Upon arrival, embark on the Ha Long 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Luxury 5 Star Cruise with Balcony. This luxurious cruise will take you through the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay, known for its emerald waters and limestone islands.

Afternoon

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board as you sail through the bay. In the afternoon, participate in various activities such as kayaking or visiting a floating village. The cruise offers plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Evening

In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner on board while watching the sunset over the bay. The serene atmosphere and beautiful views make for an unforgettable experience.

Bedtime

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Ha Long 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Luxury 5 Star Cruise with Balcony
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Exploring Lan Ha Bay

Morning

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise over Lan Ha Bay. After breakfast on board, continue exploring the bay with activities such as visiting hidden caves or swimming in secluded lagoons.

Afternoon

After lunch, disembark from your cruise and transfer back to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, take some time to relax at your hotel or explore more of the city at your leisure.

Evening

For dinner, head to Bún Chả Hương Liên, famous for its delicious bún chả (grilled pork with noodles). This restaurant gained international fame after being visited by former US President Barack Obama.

Bedtime

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Journey to Hoi An

Morning

Start your day with a flight from Hanoi to Da Nang. Upon arrival in Da Nang, transfer to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture.

Afternoon

After checking into your hotel in Hoi An, spend the afternoon exploring the town's historic sites such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and ancient houses. For lunch, dine at Morning Glory Restaurant, which offers traditional Vietnamese dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Evening

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An's Old Town. Enjoy dinner at Heritage Restaurant, known for its elegant setting and delicious fusion cuisine.

Bedtime

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Cultural Immersion in Hoi An

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to one of Hoi An's local markets where you can experience daily life and shop for unique souvenirs. Next, head over to one of Hoi An's renowned tailor shops where you can get custom-made clothing.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Bale Well Restaurant, famous for its spring rolls and other local specialties. Afterward, visit some of Hoi An's cultural sites such as temples or museums that showcase its rich history.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing boat ride along Thu Bon River while enjoying beautiful views of illuminated lanterns reflecting on water surface followed by dinner at Cao Lau Ba Le Well which is known for serving authentic Cao Lau noodles.

Bedtime

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Exploring Hoi An's Countryside

Morning

Hoi An Eco Tour - Start your day with an eco-tour that takes you through Hoi An's picturesque countryside. You'll have the opportunity to experience local farming practices and even try your hand at traditional fishing techniques.

Afternoon

Cooking Class in Hoi An - For lunch, enjoy a meal that you've prepared yourself during a cooking class. Learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh local ingredients.

Evening

Hoi An Lantern Festival - In the evening, participate in Hoi An's famous Lantern Festival (if it coincides with your visit). The town is beautifully illuminated with colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at Mango Mango, known for its innovative Vietnamese cuisine.

Bedtime

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Discovering Hue's Imperial Past

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The complex is a vast walled fortress and palace that was the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Wander through its ancient gates, palaces, and temples to get a sense of its historical significance.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to Anh Binh Restaurant, known for its traditional Hue cuisine. Afterward, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in Hue. The pagoda offers stunning views of the Perfume River.

Evening

In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride along the Perfume River. Enjoy dinner at Les Jardins de La Carambole, which offers French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine in a charming colonial setting.

Bedtime

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Relaxing on My Khe Beach

Morning

My Khe Beach - Spend your morning relaxing on My Khe Beach in Da Nang. Known for its white sandy shores and clear blue waters, it's an ideal spot for swimming or simply soaking up the sun.

Afternoon

Marble Mountains - After lunch at A La Carte Da Nang Beach Restaurant, head over to explore the Marble Mountains. These five limestone hills are home to caves, tunnels, and Buddhist shrines offering panoramic views of Da Nang.

Evening

Dragon Bridge - In the evening, visit Dragon Bridge which lights up spectacularly at night with LED lights changing colors every few seconds creating mesmerizing visual effects followed by dinner at La Maison 1888 which is known for its exquisite French cuisine.

Bedtime

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Exploring Ho Chi Minh City's Highlights

Morning

War Remnants Museum - Begin your day with a visit to War Remnants Museum which provides deep insights into Vietnam War through various exhibits including photographs & military equipment showcasing harsh realities faced during wartime period making it both educational & emotional experience.

Afternoon

Ben Thanh Market - For lunch head towards Ben Thanh Market where you can savor delicious street food while shopping around vibrant stalls selling everything from clothes & souvenirs providing perfect blend between culinary delight & retail therapy experience!

Evening

Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck - End your day by visiting Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck offering breathtaking panoramic views over bustling cityscape especially during sunset hours followed by dinner at Nha Hang Ngon which serves variety authentic Vietnamese dishes ensuring memorable dining experience!

Bedtime

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