12-Day Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Vietnam and Bali Itinerary

Depart from Hanoi for a day trip to Ninh Binh. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Bun Bo Nam Bo, a local spot known for its beef noodle salad. Explore the stunning karst landscape of Tam Coc, also known as "Halong Bay on land," by taking a peaceful sampan boat ride through the limestone caves and rice paddies.

Refuel with a countryside-style lunch at Quan An Ngon, offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. Continue your Ninh Binh adventure with a visit to the ancient capital of Vietnam at Hoa Lu, followed by a hike to the panoramic viewpoint at Mua Cave (Hang Mua).

Return to Hanoi and unwind with a delightful dinner at Green Tangerine, housed in a colonial building and serving a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine in an elegant setting.

Start your day with a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME), where you can learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups. Afterward, enjoy a guided Hanoi Food Tour with Train Street Visit, exploring the city's culinary scene and hidden alleyways.

For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Hanoi at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a popular spot known for its bun cha, a local specialty. Spend the rest of your afternoon at the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), the first university in Vietnam, and the peaceful Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc) by the West Lake.

Dine at Madame Hien, a restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the serene West Lake (Ho Tay) to cap off your day.

Begin your morning with a visit to the historic Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien), an iconic symbol of Hanoi. Then, take a relaxing stroll around the picturesque Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), where you can also visit the Jade Mountain Temple (Ngoc Son Temple).

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, which offers panoramic views of the city. Afterward, immerse yourself in the history of the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton," and gain insights into the city's tumultuous past.

For a memorable dining experience, head to Home Hanoi Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of Vietnamese dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, take a relaxing Hanoi Night Market stroll and explore the local handicrafts and street food.

Embark on a full-day trip to the majestic Ha Long Bay. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast on board a traditional junk boat as you cruise through the otherworldly karst formations. Visit the beautiful Ti Top Island for panoramic views and take a refreshing swim in the emerald waters.

Savor a freshly prepared seafood lunch on the boat as you continue to explore the bay. Discover the enchanting Luon Cave (Hang Luon) by kayak or bamboo boat, and witness the natural beauty of the limestone karsts up close.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and dine at Nha Hang Ngon, a restaurant known for its wide selection of Vietnamese street food in a comfortable, indoor setting.

Begin your day in Ho Chi Minh City with a hearty breakfast at Pho Binh, a local favorite for its traditional pho. Afterward, visit the historic Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Cuc Gach Quan, a charming restaurant set in a traditional Vietnamese house, serving a variety of local dishes. Spend your afternoon exploring the city's landmarks, including the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon (Nha Tho Duc Ba) and the Central Post Office (Bu'u dien Thanh pho Ho Chi Minh), both fine examples of colonial architecture.

Dine at Hoang Yen Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and delectable Vietnamese cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll along Bui Vien Walking Street, the heart of the city's nightlife, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to the Imperial City (The Citadel) of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the majestic palaces, temples, and pavilions that once served as the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Enjoy a royal lunch at Au Lac Do Brazil, a unique restaurant offering a fusion of Brazilian and Vietnamese cuisine. Afterward, take a relaxing boat cruise on the Perfume River (Song Huong) and visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda (Pagoda of the Celestial Lady), one of the oldest and most beautiful religious sites in Vietnam.

Dine at Thanh Tam Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of local specialties in a tranquil garden setting. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the river and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this ancient city.

Begin your day with a visit to the charming Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the well-preserved architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant local markets. Don't miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau) and the tranquil Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation (Hoi Quan Phuc Kien).

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant, a popular spot known for its wide range of local dishes. Afterward, take a hands-on Hoi An Eco Cooking Class with Herbal Tour and learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh, organic ingredients.

Dine at Mango Mango Restaurant, where you can enjoy a fusion of Vietnamese and international flavors in a relaxed riverside setting. After dinner, take a stroll through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and soak in the magical atmosphere of this ancient town.

Start your day with a visit to the Cua Dai Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the tranquil waters. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try your hand at Hoi An Stand-Up Paddleboarding Experience.

For lunch, head to White Marble Restaurant, a stylish eatery offering a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely Hoi An Bike Tour to Tra Que Vegetable Village and Bay Mau Coconut Forest and explore the picturesque countryside.

Dine at Red Bridge Restaurant & Cooking School, where you can enjoy a romantic dinner by the river and savor the flavors of local cuisine. Afterward, take a Hoi An Night Market stroll and browse the colorful stalls for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Begin your Bali adventure with a traditional Balinese breakfast at Ibu Oka, famous for its succulent babi guling (suckling pig). Afterward, visit the sacred Tirta Empul Temple (Pura Tirta Empul) and take part in a purifying water ritual.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Clear Cafe, a health-conscious eatery with a serene ambiance. Spend your afternoon exploring the lush Tegallalang Rice Terraces and the nearby Tegenungan Waterfall (Air Terjun Tegenungan), where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool.

Dine at Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique, one of the finest dining establishments in Ubud, known for its innovative cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, catch a traditional Balinese dance performance at Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Palace) or the Ubud Royal Cremation (Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal).

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at Sari Organik, set amidst the rice fields of Ubud. Afterward, visit the Monkey Forest (Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary) and interact with the playful macaques. Continue to the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) to admire a collection of traditional and contemporary Balinese artworks.

For lunch, head to La Lucciola, a beachfront restaurant in Seminyak, and enjoy a meal with a view. Spend your afternoon exploring the trendy boutiques and galleries of Oberoi Street and Petitenget Temple (Pura Petitenget), a cultural and spiritual landmark.

Dine at Metis Restaurant and Gallery, an upscale dining venue with a focus on French Mediterranean cuisine. After dinner, experience the vibrant nightlife of Bali at Ku De Ta or Potato Head Beach Club, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails by the beach.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Bistrot, a stylish eatery in Seminyak. Spend your morning at Jimbaran Beach, where you can relax on the golden sands and later indulge in a fresh seafood lunch at one of the local Jimbaran Seafood Restaurants.

After lunch, take a Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) and Kecak Fire Dance tour to witness the majestic sea temple and an enthralling traditional dance performance. Then, head to the southern tip of the island to explore the unique Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park (GWK) and admire the towering Garuda statue.

Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner at Sarong Restaurant, known for its exquisite Southeast Asian cuisine and elegant ambiance. As the sun sets, reflect on your journey with a beachfront drink at Sundays Beach Club, enjoying the panoramic views and the gentle ocean breeze.