Landed at Hanoi (Noi Bai) — clear immigration, grab a local SIM and cash; taxis/Grab from airport to Old Quarter take ~40–60 minutes depending on traffic.
Classic Hanoi breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen or Pho Bat Dan in the Old Quarter; great to sample authentic pho and warm up after your flight. These spots open early (around 6am–7am).
Recommended hotels with good pools and convenient locations: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi (luxury, downtown with pool); La Siesta Central Hotel & Spa (boutique, rooftop pool near Old Quarter); or Azerai La Residence (Riverside pool). Choose Old Quarter/Hoan Kiem for walking access or Tay Ho (West Lake) hotels for larger pools and quieter nights.
Check in and set sail. Typical cruises include lunch on board, cabin check-in and safety briefing. Choose a well-reviewed cruise (mid-range to luxury) for comfort.
Cruise typically visits Sung Sot or similar cave and offers kayaking or swimming in calm coves (check cruise specifics); most sites open for visitors year-round depending on water/sea conditions.
Overnight on the cruise ship. Recommended cruise operators: Signature Halong, La Regina Cruise, or Bhaya Cruises for reliable 2D1N packages with included meals and activities.
Enjoy street food at the weekend night market (if it’s a weekend in the Old Quarter) or dine at a recommended restaurant; stroll the lively streets after dinner.
Same hotel as Day 1 recommended for convenience; if you prefer a pool-focused stay, opt for a West Lake hotel (e.g., Sheraton Hanoi, Apricot has rooftop facilities).
Stroll Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and tailors (shops open 9:00am–9:00pm); evening is especially picturesque when lanterns are lit.
Beach/resort options: Anantara Hoi An Resort (riverfront + pool), Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa (Cua Dai beachfront + family-friendly pools), Nam Hai or Four Seasons The Nam Hai (premium beachfront). For boutique/pool: Almanity Hoi An or La Siesta Hoi An & Spa.
Join a popular cooking class (Green Bamboo or Red Bridge) that typically runs 9:00am–1:00pm and includes market visit and lunch with your cooked dishes. Book in advance.
Short bicycle ride to Tra Que Herb Village to see local farming, optional foot-massage, and learn about local produce; bicycle rentals open all day (bike lanes are safe).
Take a midday flight back to Hanoi (about 1h15m). Book a flight that lands with enough time for a relaxed last afternoon in Hanoi (avoid late evening arrivals).
Walk the Old Quarter for souvenirs, or visit Hanoi Train Street and nearby cafes (shops open through evening; Train Street times vary—check local schedule for train passes).
Leave for Noi Bai International Airport to check in for your 19:40 international flight — aim to arrive at airport by ~17:40 (2 hours before departure). Travel time from Old Quarter is ~40–60 minutes depending on traffic.