8-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Vietnam Itinerary

Start your day with a guided street food tour, sampling local delicacies and learning about Hanoi's culinary scene. Visit hidden food spots and enjoy the morning like a true local.

After the food tour, take a break and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. For lunch, head to The Hanoi Social Club, a charming venue with a focus on organic and sustainable cuisine.

Dine at Skyline Hanoi, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city while savoring a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes. End the evening with a drink at Cloud Sky Bar Hanoi, one of the highest rooftop bars in the city.

Depart from Hanoi for a 2-day cruise in the stunning Ha Long Bay. Enjoy the scenic drive and board your cruise ship, where you'll be treated to fresh seafood and breathtaking limestone karsts.

Explore the otherworldly beauty of the bay, visit the famous Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot), and take a kayak to get up close to the karsts. Relax on the sundeck and witness the magical sunset over the emerald waters.

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner on the cruise, accompanied by live music. Afterward, you can try your hand at squid fishing or simply enjoy the serenity of the bay under the starry sky.

Wake up to the gentle lapping of the waves and join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the morning sun casts a golden glow over the karsts. Enjoy a hearty breakfast on board before setting out for more exploration.

Visit the floating village of Vung Vieng Fishing Village, where you can witness the daily life of the local fishermen. Learn about their traditional methods and perhaps even try your hand at rowing a bamboo boat.

As the cruise returns to the harbor, savor your final dinner on the bay with a sense of gratitude for the natural wonders you've experienced. Spend the evening reflecting on the tranquility of Halong Bay.

Depart from Hanoi for a day trip to Ninh Binh. Enjoy breakfast at Pine & Dine Skybar and Restaurant before visiting the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu. Explore the historic temples and learn about the region's royal past.

After a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Capos, embark on a serene sampan boat ride through the lush greenery of the Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes). Marvel at the karst formations and hidden caves as you glide along the water.

Return to Hanoi and dine at Feliz - Modern Tapas Bar, where you can enjoy a fusion of Vietnamese flavors with a contemporary twist. Relax and reminisce about the day's natural wonders over a glass of wine.

Begin with a visit to the Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien), an iconic symbol of Hanoi's resilience. Then, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Bia hơi Lương Ngọc Quyến, a local spot known for its fresh beer and street food.

Explore the somber history of Hanoi at the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton." Afterward, take a guided tour of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME) to gain insight into the country's diverse ethnic groups.

Dine at La Table Hanoia, a restaurant that celebrates the fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. End the evening with a visit to Ignite Sky Bar, where you can enjoy innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Essence Restaurant before heading to the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), a complex of Buddhist temples nestled in the Huong Tich mountains. Take a boat ride along the Yen River to reach the pagodas, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

After returning to Hanoi, have lunch at The Hudson Rooms, a contemporary dining space with a diverse menu. Spend the afternoon wandering through the Dong Xuan Market, one of the largest and oldest markets in Hanoi, where you can find everything from local produce to souvenirs.

For dinner, indulge in the flavors of Cheers Bar Hanoi, which offers a mix of international and Vietnamese dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), enjoying the serene atmosphere and the sight of the iconic red bridge leading to the Ngoc Son Temple.

Begin your final day with a cooking class at Hanoi Fusion Pub & Restaurant, where you'll learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, accompanied by local beers or refreshing beverages.

After the cooking class, take a trip to the outskirts of Hanoi to visit the Cat Cat Village, where you can witness the traditional customs and crafts of the H'mong people. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, consider a spa treatment at a reputable local spa.

Conclude your journey with a memorable dinner at Garbo Bar - Melia Hanoi, a sophisticated venue with a menu that highlights the best of Vietnamese and international cuisine. Raise a glass to the experiences you've had and the memories you've made during your time in Vietnam.