Ultimate 5-Day Hanoi and Surroundings Adventure Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam's first national university. Then, explore the historic Hoa Lo Prison and learn about its intriguing past.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at Banh Mi 25, a popular spot for banh mi sandwiches. Afterward, discover the hidden charm of the Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien) and take a leisurely walk across this iconic structure.

Dine at La Verticale, a fine dining restaurant housed in a colonial-era villa. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake and soak in the evening ambiance.

Depart from Hanoi for a 2-day luxury cruise experience in Ha Long Bay. Enjoy the scenic drive and board your cruise ship with a private balcony and bathtub, as you set sail to explore the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.

Indulge in a sumptuous buffet lunch on board and take in the breathtaking views of the bay. Afterward, visit the enchanting Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) and enjoy a kayaking adventure around the karst formations.

Relax on the sundeck and savor a delectable dinner on board, accompanied by the serene beauty of the bay. Spend the night on the cruise ship, surrounded by the magical ambiance of Ha Long Bay.

Disembark from the cruise and head to Ninh Binh to explore the natural wonders of the region. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the nearby Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long, known for its specialty dish of grilled fish. Afterward, embark on a boat trip through the picturesque karst landscape and visit the stunning Mua Caves (Hang Mua).

Return to Hanoi and dine at Quan An Ngon, a renowned restaurant offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the bustling streets of the Hanoi Old Quarter and soak in the vibrant nightlife.

Start your day with a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME) to gain insights into the country's diverse ethnic groups. Then, explore the tranquil grounds of the Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi.

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Madame Hien, known for its traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Afterward, embark on a day trip to the mystical Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), a complex of Buddhist temples nestled in the Huong Tich mountains.

Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Hanoi Opera House (Nha Hat Lon), where you can enjoy a captivating performance. Then, savor a farewell dinner at Green Tangerine, a charming restaurant housed in a colonial-era building.