5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Hanoi and Surroundings Itinerary

Explore the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, situated on the West Lake. Then, visit the historic Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), known as the first university of Vietnam.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Green Tangerine, a French-Indochine fusion restaurant located in a charming colonial building. Afterward, take a guided tour of the notorious Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton," which holds a dark history from the Vietnam War era.

Dine at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. After dinner, take a relaxing walk around the serene Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake) and witness the local life and the beautiful The Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple.

Depart from Hanoi for a memorable Hanoi 2-Day Halong Sapphire Cruise with Balcony Cabin. Enjoy the scenic drive to Halong Bay and board your luxurious cruise. Take in the breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters as you settle into your balcony cabin.

Indulge in a sumptuous onboard lunch as the cruise sets sail. Spend the afternoon exploring the stunning caves and grottoes of Halong Bay, and if time permits, enjoy a refreshing swim in the bay's pristine waters.

As the day winds down, savor a delectable dinner on the cruise's sundeck, surrounded by the magical karst landscape. Relax under the stars or participate in the evening activities offered onboard.

Embark on a full-day trip to Ninh Binh, starting with a visit to the ancient capital of Vietnam at Hoa Lu. Explore the historic temples and learn about the region's royal past. Then, take a tranquil sampan boat ride through the stunning Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Quan An Ngon, known for its wide variety of Vietnamese dishes in a traditional setting. Afterward, continue your Ninh Binh exploration with a visit to the majestic Tam Coc, also known as "Halong Bay on land," and the nearby Mua Caves for panoramic views of the karst landscape.

Return to Hanoi and unwind with a dinner at Madame Hien, a restaurant that offers a blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors in a contemporary setting.

Begin your day with a visit to the serene Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), a complex of Buddhist temples located in the Huong Tich mountains. Take a boat trip along the Yen River to reach the pagodas, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously known as the "Obama Bun Cha" restaurant after the former US President dined here. Post-lunch, take a trip to the ancient village of Du Du Village, where you can witness traditional Vietnamese rural life and crafts.

Conclude your Hanoi journey with a farewell dinner at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, which offers a modern take on traditional Vietnamese dishes with panoramic views of the city. Reflect on your cultural and culinary experiences as you enjoy your final evening in Vietnam.