7-Day Northern Vietnam Adventure: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam's first national university. Afterward, explore the solemn Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton." For lunch, savor the authentic flavors of Banh Mi 25, a popular spot for traditional Vietnamese sandwiches.

In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre performance, a unique art form that originated in the Red River Delta. After the show, take a leisurely walk around the Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture. For dinner, indulge in a gourmet meal at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, known for its exquisite Vietnamese cuisine.

After dinner, experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi at the Hanoi Opera House (Nha Hat Lon). You can catch a live music performance or enjoy a cultural show at this historic venue.

Depart from Hanoi early in the morning for a full-day Hanoi 1-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise w/ Titop Island & Luon Cave. Marvel at the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters as you cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board and take a dip in the bay's crystal-clear waters.

Continue your cruise and visit Titop Island, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the bay. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the Luon Cave, a hidden gem nestled within the limestone cliffs. Return to Hanoi in the evening and relax at your hotel.

For dinner, savor the flavors of the sea at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood dishes and elegant ambiance.

Embark on a full-day From Hanoi Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Mua Caves Full-Day Trip to explore the picturesque landscapes of Ninh Binh. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and learn about the region's rich history. Then, take a boat ride through the stunning Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), known for its karst formations and tranquil waterways.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your exploration. Visit the Mua Caves, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. You'll also have the opportunity to take a bike ride through the rural villages.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and unwind with a relaxing dinner at Madame Hien, known for its refined Vietnamese cuisine and elegant setting.

Start your day with a visit to the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Vietnam. Take a boat ride along the Yen Stream to reach the pagoda, nestled amidst the limestone cliffs. Afterward, enjoy a traditional vegetarian lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, explore the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Then, take a leisurely walk around the West Lake (Ho Tay), a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the scenic views.

For dinner, indulge in the flavors of northern Vietnamese cuisine at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a famous restaurant known for its grilled pork and noodle dish. Afterward, experience the enchanting Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre performance, a must-see cultural show in Hanoi.

Depart from Hanoi for a 3-day From Hanoi 3-Day Ninh Binh, Ha long, & Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise to explore the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Enjoy a welcome drink and a sumptuous lunch on board as you set sail through the emerald waters.

Relax and take in the breathtaking scenery as you cruise past the iconic limestone karsts. You'll have the opportunity to kayak through the hidden lagoons, visit floating fishing villages, and swim in the bay's pristine waters. In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner on board.

After dinner, you can relax on the sundeck and enjoy the starry night sky, or participate in the onboard activities and entertainment. Retire to your luxurious cabin for a restful night's sleep.

Return to Hanoi from Ha Long Bay and spend your last day exploring the city's culinary scene. Join a Hanoi Food Tour with Train Street Visit to sample a wide variety of local dishes, including the famous "pho" and "bun cha." You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien) and the unique Train Street.

After the food tour, take a leisurely walk around the French Quarter, known for its colonial architecture and charming cafes. For lunch, try the delicious "bun cha" at Green Tangerine, a renowned restaurant housed in a beautiful French villa.

As the sun sets, enjoy a farewell dinner at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant that offers a wide selection of Vietnamese street food in a lively setting. Reflect on your unforgettable journey through northern Vietnam and savor the memories of the local cuisine.