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

Begin with a delightful breakfast at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes. 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.

Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Madame Hien, offering a blend of French and Vietnamese cuisine. Spend your afternoon at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME), where you can learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups and their cultural heritage.

Explore Hanoi's vibrant street food scene on a Hanoi Small-Group Street Food Walking Tour with a local guide. Taste a variety of local delicacies and experience the culinary traditions of the city.

Embark on a memorable 1-day cruise to Ha Long Bay with a visit to Titop Island & Luon Cave. Enjoy the breathtaking limestone karsts and pristine waters as you cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage site. Indulge in a hearty breakfast onboard with the mesmerizing views.

Delight in a delectable lunch served on the cruise, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties. Take in the panoramic vistas of the bay and explore the stunning caves and islands.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long, famous for its grilled fish with turmeric and dill, a Hanoi specialty.

Begin your day with a visit to the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu. Explore the historic temples and learn about the country's rich history. Afterward, take a scenic boat ride through the majestic limestone karsts and lush rice paddies at Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land."

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Quan An Ngon, known for its wide selection of local dishes. After lunch, visit the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam.

Return to Hanoi and dine at Nha Hang Ngon, where you can enjoy a variety of Vietnamese street food in a comfortable setting.

Enjoy a leisurely morning with breakfast at a local cafe of your choice. You have the option to revisit a favorite spot, explore a museum, or indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.

For your final meal in Hanoi, savor the flavors of Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously known as the "Bun Cha Obama" restaurant. Relish the iconic Vietnamese dish that former President Obama enjoyed during his visit to Vietnam.

Departure from Hanoi. If time allows, take a stroll around the vibrant Hanoi Opera House (Nha Hat Lon) area and reminisce about the cultural and culinary journey you've experienced in this captivating city.