7 Days in Hanoi and Surroundings: Culture, Nature, and Culinary Delights Itinerary

Take a leisurely walk through the bustling streets of the Hanoi Old Quarter and visit the iconic Dong Xuan Market. Stop for a cup of the famous egg coffee at Giang Cafe Egg Coffee.

For lunch, enjoy a bowl of pho at the legendary Pho Gia Truyen. Afterward, continue your exploration of the Old Quarter, visiting the St Joseph’s Cathedral and the Hoan Kiem Lake.

Embark on a guided street food tour that includes a visit to the unique Train Street and sample a variety of local delicacies. Conclude the day with a dinner at Bun Bo Nam Bo, known for its delicious beef noodle salad.

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam. Afterward, explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at KOTO Van Mieu Training Restaurant, a social enterprise supporting underprivileged youth. In the afternoon, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the St Joseph’s Cathedral.

For dinner, experience fine dining at La Verticale, known for its French-Indochine cuisine with a modern twist.

Take a day trip to Ninh Binh and explore the stunning natural landscapes of Trang An Landscape Complex. Enjoy a boat ride through the picturesque karst formations and visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.

Have a relaxing lunch at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, known for its tranquil setting by the West Lake. Afterward, visit the breathtaking Mua Caves and enjoy the panoramic views from the top.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and have a cozy dinner at Home Vietnamese Restaurant, known for its authentic home-cooked dishes.

Transfer to Halong Bay for a memorable cruise experience. Explore the emerald waters, limestone islands, and hidden caves of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a seafood lunch on board as you sail past the iconic karst formations. Take a swim or kayak in the bay before visiting the stunning Sung Sot Cave.

Relax on the deck and witness a magical sunset over the bay. Indulge in a sumptuous dinner on the cruise, surrounded by the enchanting beauty of Halong Bay.

Embark on a day trip to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay, a hidden gem with crystal clear waters and pristine beaches. Explore the unique rock formations and enjoy activities like swimming and kayaking.

Feast on a fresh seafood lunch on the island. Afterward, continue your exploration of the bay, visiting floating fishing villages and limestone caves.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and have a farewell dinner at Green Tangerine, a charming restaurant housed in a colonial villa, serving a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine.

Spend your last morning in Hanoi visiting any remaining sites on your list or shopping for souvenirs at the Dong Xuan Market. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Madame Hien, known for its traditional Vietnamese dishes with a modern twist.

Take a leisurely walk around the West Lake and visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi. Reflect on your journey and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the lake.

Transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying with you the memories of a wonderful week exploring the cultural, natural, and culinary delights of Hanoi and its surroundings.