Ultimate 5-Day Hanoi and Halong Bay Exploration Itinerary

Have a leisurely breakfast at Giang Cafe Egg Coffee, a must-visit for their signature egg coffee. Then, explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the One-Pillar Pagoda.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can try the dish famously shared by President Obama and Anthony Bourdain. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups.

For dinner, experience a blend of French and Vietnamese cuisine at La Verticale, a fine dining restaurant. Take a leisurely walk around West Lake to end the day.

Start your day with a cooking class at Home Vietnamese Restaurant, where you'll learn to prepare local dishes. Enjoy the meal you've cooked for lunch.

Afterward, take a guided street food tour with a visit to the famous Train Street, experiencing the vibrant food scene of Hanoi. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university.

For dinner, head to Madame Hien, a restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Vietnamese dishes. Afterward, explore the bustling night market in the Old Quarter.

Transfer to Halong Bay for a full-day cruise. Explore the stunning karst landscapes, visit Titop Island, and enjoy activities like kayaking.

Enjoy a seafood lunch on board as you cruise around the bay. Visit the Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Halong Bay.

Watch the sunset from the deck of the cruise ship before having a delightful dinner on board. Relax and enjoy the peaceful night on the bay.

Return to Hanoi from Halong Bay. Spend your last morning visiting any remaining sites on your wishlist or shopping for souvenirs.

For your final meal in Vietnam, indulge in a variety of local dishes at Nha Hang Ngon, a restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Take a leisurely walk around the city to soak in the last moments of your trip.

Transfer to the airport for your departure, ending your 5-day adventure in Hanoi and Halong Bay.