7-Day Northern Vietnam Exploration from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay Itinerary

Take a day trip to Ninh Binh and visit the historic Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Explore the temples and learn about the country's history.

Enjoy a boat ride through the stunning Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural beauty. Have a late lunch at Banh Mi 25 back in Hanoi.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and have dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can try the famous dish that former President Obama enjoyed.

Travel to Ha Long Bay and embark on a cruise to explore the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy a welcome drink and lunch on board as you sail through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit Titop Island for panoramic views of the bay and enjoy swimming and kayaking. Relax on the sundeck and watch the sunset over the karsts.

Have a seafood dinner on the cruise and participate in squid fishing or simply stargaze on the deck.

Explore the Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay. Learn about the rock formations and the cave's history.

Visit the floating fishing village of Cua Van and learn about the daily life of the local fishermen. Enjoy a seafood lunch on the boat.

Watch the sunset from the deck of the cruise and enjoy a farewell dinner with a cooking demonstration of Vietnamese dishes.

Return to Hanoi and spend the morning exploring the vibrant Dong Xuan Market. Shop for souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Have a leisurely lunch at Bun Bo Nam Bo and then take a cyclo ride to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum for a guided tour. Visit the nearby One-Pillar Pagoda.

Enjoy a street food tour in the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter, sampling local delicacies at various stalls and eateries. Visit the famous Train Street for a unique dining experience.

Start your day with a cup of traditional egg coffee at Giang Cafe Egg Coffee. Then, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups.

Enjoy a late lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can try the dish famously shared by President Obama and Anthony Bourdain. Afterward, visit the Temple of Literature and the Hoa Lo Prison.

For dinner, experience French-inspired Vietnamese cuisine at Green Tangerine, located in a colonial building. Take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy the city's evening ambiance.

Spend your last morning in Hanoi visiting the St Joseph’s Cathedral and taking a stroll around the West Lake. Have a relaxing brunch at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant by the lake.

Explore the Long Bien Bridge and the Old Quarter, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. Shop for any last-minute souvenirs.

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at La Verticale, a fine dining restaurant with a panoramic view of the city. Reflect on your Northern Vietnam adventure and prepare for your next journey.