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5-Day Hanoi and Ha Long Bay Adventure

5-Day Hanoi and Ha Long Bay Adventure Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jul 03

Exploring the Heart of Hanoi

Morning
Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Hoa Lo Prison. This historical site, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton,' offers a deep dive into Vietnam's turbulent past and provides an insightful look at the country's history. After exploring Hoa Lo Prison, head over to The Note Coffee for a refreshing cup of Vietnamese coffee. This charming café is famous for its colorful sticky notes left by visitors from around the world.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, join the Hanoi: Small-Group Street Food Walking Tour. This tour will take you through Hanoi's bustling streets, where you'll get to sample a variety of delicious local dishes. From pho to banh mi, this tour is a food lover's dream. After your food tour, take a leisurely stroll around Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake). This serene lake is perfect for an afternoon walk and offers beautiful views of the surrounding city.
Evening
End your day with a visit to Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This traditional Vietnamese art form is performed on water and is accompanied by live music. It's a unique cultural experience that you won't want to miss. For dinner, head over to Chim Sao, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Cultural Immersion in Hanoi

Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to Vietnamese Women’s Museum. This museum highlights the contributions of women in Vietnamese society and features exhibits on women's roles in family life, history, and fashion. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast at Café Pho Co, which offers stunning views of Hoan Kiem Lake from its rooftop terrace.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, embark on the exciting Hanoi: Half-Day Guided City Tour on Vintage Minsk Motorbike. This tour will take you through Hanoi's hidden gems and vibrant neighborhoods on a vintage motorbike. It's an exhilarating way to see the city from a different perspective. Following your motorbike tour, visit Temple of the Jade Mountain (Ngoc Son Temple), located on an island in Hoan Kiem Lake. The temple is dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao and offers beautiful views of the lake.
Evening
Spend your evening exploring Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and street vendors. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. For dinner, dine at Madame Hien, which serves traditional Vietnamese dishes in an elegant setting.
Bedtime
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Day Trip to Ha Long Bay

Morning
On your third day, embark on an unforgettable journey with the From Hanoi: 2-Day Halong Sapphire Cruise with Balcony Cabin. Depart early from Hanoi and travel by bus or car to Ha Long Bay (approximately 3-4 hours). Upon arrival at Ha Long Bay, board your luxury cruise ship and settle into your private balcony cabin. Enjoy welcome drinks as you set sail through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon cruising through Ha Long Bay's emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts. The cruise includes stops at various attractions such as caves and floating villages. Enjoy activities like kayaking or swimming in secluded spots away from tourist crowds. A buffet lunch featuring fresh seafood will be served onboard.
Evening
As evening falls, relax on deck with sunset views over Ha Long Bay while enjoying cocktails or mocktails. Dinner will be served onboard featuring local delicacies prepared by talented chefs. After dinner entertainment may include squid fishing or watching movies under starlit skies.
Bedtime
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Adventure and Relaxation in Ha Long Bay

Morning
Start your day with a hearty breakfast on board your cruise ship. The morning will be spent exploring more of Ha Long Bay's stunning landscapes. Join the Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking and Cruise tour, which offers an exciting opportunity to paddle through hidden lagoons and discover secluded beaches. This kayaking adventure allows you to get up close to the limestone karsts and enjoy the tranquility of Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded area compared to Ha Long Bay.
Afternoon
After returning from your kayaking tour, enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board the cruise ship. The afternoon is perfect for some relaxation. Lounge on the sun deck or take a dip in the emerald waters. For those seeking more adventure, there are options for swimming or snorkeling. The cruise will also make stops at picturesque spots for photo opportunities.
Evening
As the day winds down, enjoy a beautiful sunset over Ha Long Bay from the deck of your cruise ship. Dinner will be served onboard, featuring a variety of local dishes. After dinner, participate in evening activities such as squid fishing or simply relax with a drink while enjoying the serene night views of the bay.
Bedtime
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Return to Hanoi and Final Exploration

Morning
Begin your final day with breakfast on board as you sail back to the harbor. Disembark from your cruise ship and travel back to Hanoi (approximately 3-4 hours). Upon arrival in Hanoi, check into your hotel and freshen up before heading out for more exploration.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, visit Dong Xuan Market, one of Hanoi's largest markets. Here you can shop for souvenirs, local handicrafts, and sample street food. Next, head over to St Joseph’s Cathedral (Nha Tho Lon). This stunning neo-Gothic cathedral is one of Hanoi's most iconic landmarks and offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city streets.
Evening
Conclude your trip with an evening at Hanoi: Water Puppet Show Tickets. This traditional Vietnamese art form is performed on water and accompanied by live music – it's a must-see cultural experience. For your final dinner in Hanoi, dine at Green Tangerine, known for its French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine served in a charming colonial-era building.
Bedtime
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