8-Day Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hanoi and Surroundings Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn about the life of the revered leader. Then, explore the serene One-Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university.

For lunch, head to Bun Bo Nam Bo, a local favorite for its delicious beef noodle salad. Afterward, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to gain insights into the country's diverse ethnic groups.

In the evening, take a stroll around the West Lake and enjoy a dinner cruise on the lake. Indulge in a sumptuous meal at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant while taking in the beautiful views.

Explore the lesser-known attractions of Hanoi, starting with a visit to the Long Bien Bridge, an iconic symbol of the city. Then, discover the historical significance of Hoa Lo Prison and the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at La Verticale, a fine dining restaurant known for its French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine. Afterward, take a guided street food tour with a visit to the famous Train Street.

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Green Tangerine, housed in a charming French colonial villa. Experience the unique blend of Vietnamese and French flavors in a romantic setting.

Embark on a full-day trip to Ninh Binh, known for its stunning landscapes and ancient temples. Visit the Tam Coc and Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously visited by former President Obama. Afterward, explore the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and relax with a delicious dinner at Madame Hien, known for its refined Vietnamese cuisine in a colonial setting.

Start your day with a visit to the Dong Xuan Market, one of the largest markets in Hanoi. Sample local snacks and buy some souvenirs.

Join a guided street food tour to explore the hidden culinary gems of Hanoi. Taste a variety of dishes at local eateries and experience the vibrant food scene of the city.

For dinner, head to Cha Ca Thang Long, a restaurant specializing in the famous Hanoi dish, cha ca. Enjoy the interactive cooking experience and savor the flavors of this traditional dish.

Visit the Hanoi Opera House, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Then, explore the Vietnam Military History Museum to learn about the country's rich history.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Quán Ăn Ngon, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes. Afterward, visit the St Joseph’s Cathedral and the Perfume Pagoda.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Hanoi Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that dates back to the 11th century. After the show, have dinner at Nha Hang Ngon, known for its extensive menu of Vietnamese dishes.

Transfer to Halong Bay and embark on a luxurious 2-day cruise with a private balcony and bathtub. Enjoy the stunning karst landscapes and explore the Surprise Cave.

Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch on board the cruise. Afterward, take a kayak excursion to explore the hidden corners of the bay.

Relax on the sundeck and enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars. Spend the night on the cruise, surrounded by the serene beauty of Halong Bay.

Wake up to the peaceful surroundings of Halong Bay and enjoy a hearty breakfast on board. Take in the breathtaking views as you cruise through the bay.

Disembark from the cruise and transfer back to Hanoi. On the way, stop at the Perfume Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples built into the limestone cliffs.

Arrive in Hanoi in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can savor the flavors of this iconic dish one last time.