5-Day Northern Vietnam Adventure: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Beyond Itinerary

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, known for its tranquil ambiance and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. After breakfast, visit the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam's first national university, and the peaceful Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi.

Have a delightful lunch at Madame Hien, offering a blend of French and Vietnamese flavors. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the rich history of Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME). Later, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque West Lake (Ho Tay) and explore the surrounding area.

Dine at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, which offers panoramic views of the city. After dinner, enjoy a traditional Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre performance. The ancient art of water puppetry is a unique Vietnamese cultural experience that shouldn't be missed.

Embark on a memorable Ha Long Bay Day Trip with Lunch and Transfers. Cruise through the stunning karst landscape, visit the magnificent caves, and enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board. Take in the breathtaking views of one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Continue your exploration of Ha Long Bay, admiring the limestone formations and relaxing on the sundeck. Engage in onboard activities or simply soak in the serenity of the bay. Capture the magical moments as the sun sets over the karst peaks.

Enjoy a delightful dinner on the cruise, accompanied by the gentle lapping of the waves. Spend a peaceful evening on the water, stargazing and reflecting on the natural beauty surrounding you.

Begin with a visit to the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu. Explore the historic temples and learn about the country's early history. Afterward, take a scenic boat ride through the serene Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), enjoying the natural beauty and limestone karsts.

Have a leisurely lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a famous spot known for its delicious bun cha. Post-lunch, visit the somber Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton," and learn about its historical significance. Then, take a relaxing walk around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the nearby Jade Mountain Temple (Ngoc Son Temple).

For dinner, head to Cha Ca Thang Long and savor the iconic Vietnamese dish, cha ca. Afterward, take a stroll along the vibrant Train Street (Railway Street) and witness the unique sight of trains passing through the narrow street, just inches away from the local houses.

Begin your day with a visit to the well-preserved Hoi An Ancient Town. Explore the charming streets, ancient houses, and historical sites. Don't miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the vibrant local markets. You can also take this time to get tailor-made clothes, a specialty of Hoi An.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Local Restaurant Name, where you can taste the flavors of Hoi An cuisine. Afterward, take a boat ride on the serene Thi Nai Lagoon and witness the beautiful rural landscape and the daily life of the local fishermen.

Dine at Local Restaurant Name, known for its riverside dining experience. After dinner, take a lantern-lit evening walking tour of Hoi An, where you can immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the town illuminated by colorful lanterns.