8-Day Vegetarian Culinary and Cultural Journey through Vietnam Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Son Sushi Bar to fuel up for the day. Continue to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum to gain insights into the lives of Vietnamese women throughout history.

For lunch, savor the flavors of Vietnam at Cheers Bar Hanoi, which offers a menu of local favorites. Post-lunch, explore the beautiful West Lake (Ho Tay) and make a stop at the historic Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc).

Dine with a view at Skyline Hanoi, where you can enjoy a mix of international and Vietnamese dishes. Cap off the evening with a visit to the Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien), an iconic symbol of Hanoi's resilience and history.

Embark on a cultural morning with a visit to the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam's first national university. After exploring the temple, enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Hudson Rooms. Then, head to the Van Phuc Silk Village to witness the traditional art of silk weaving and shop for high-quality silk products.

Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Colette French Bistro & Wine Bar, offering a range of French delicacies. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Dong Xuan Market, one of the largest and oldest markets in Hanoi. Explore the stalls and shop for local souvenirs.

For dinner, experience the lively street food scene at Bia Hoi Corner, where you can enjoy fresh beer and a variety of local dishes. End the night with a visit to the St Joseph’s Cathedral (Nha Tho Lon), a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture in the heart of Hanoi.

Depart from Hanoi and head to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. Enjoy a scenic cruise with a sumptuous onboard breakfast, taking in the surreal beauty of the karst landscape.

Explore the otherworldly caves and grottoes of Ha Long Bay, including the famous Sung Sot Cave (Amazing Cave). Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on the boat as you continue to be mesmerized by the natural wonders around you. Afterward, engage in optional activities such as kayaking or swimming in the bay's pristine waters.

As the sun sets over the bay, savor a delectable dinner on the cruise, accompanied by the tranquil sounds of the water. Relax on the deck and take in the starry night sky, capping off a day of unforgettable experiences in Ha Long Bay.

Journey from Hanoi to the picturesque province of Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." Enjoy a scenic morning boat ride through the stunning karst formations and lush rice paddies of the Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), a UNESCO-recognized landscape.

After the boat ride, savor a local lunch at Pine & Dine Skybar and Restaurant with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Continue your exploration with a visit to the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, where you can explore the historic temples and learn about the region's rich history.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner at Feliz - Modern Tapas Bar, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures in Ninh Binh.

Discover the lesser-known side of Hanoi with a visit to the Cat Cat Village, where you can learn about the traditional crafts and cultural heritage of the local ethnic groups. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Hummingbird - Restaurant & Cocktail Bar before immersing yourself in the village's charm.

For lunch, head to Ignite Sky Bar and enjoy a meal with a view. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the Sun World Fansipan Legend, an amusement park with a blend of cultural and modern entertainment, offering a unique experience in the heart of Hanoi.

Dine at Hanoi Fusion Pub & Restaurant, which offers a fusion of international and local flavors in a vibrant setting. End the evening with a visit to the Temple of the Jade Mountain (Ngoc Son Temple) located on an islet in the middle of Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), where you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the illuminated bridge leading to the temple.

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Hanoi Opera House (Nha Hat Lon), a symbol of French colonial architecture. After admiring the exterior, enjoy a guided tour of the interior to learn about its history and significance. For breakfast, indulge in the pastries and coffee at Le Club Bar, located in a historic setting.

Explore the vibrant art scene of Hanoi at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME), which showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. After gaining cultural insights, have a delightful lunch at Chestnut Restaurant & Sky Bar, offering a mix of international and Vietnamese cuisine with a view.

As the day winds down, take a relaxing stroll around West Lake (Ho Tay), the largest lake in Hanoi, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. For dinner, experience the innovative dishes at Cloud Sky Bar Hanoi, where you can also enjoy panoramic views of the city lights. Conclude your evening with a visit to the Vietnam Military History Museum, which provides a comprehensive look at the country's military history and the struggles for independence.

Enjoy a final breakfast in Hanoi at Diamond Sky Bar, taking in the city views one last time. Afterward, visit the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), a complex of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the limestone Huong Tich mountains. Take a scenic boat ride to reach the pagodas, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

Return to Hanoi for a memorable farewell lunch at Mint Bar, known for its innovative dishes and refreshing drinks. Spend your final afternoon in Hanoi exploring the city at your own pace, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot or picking up some last-minute souvenirs.

For your last evening in Hanoi, dine at The Hanoi Social Club, where you can enjoy a blend of international and Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy, artistic setting. Reflect on your journey through Vietnam and raise a glass to the memories made.