Land in Hanoi and take a pre-booked taxi or airport shuttle (approx. 35–50 minutes) to your Old Quarter hotel to drop bags and freshen up; allow time for immigration and baggage.
A gentle orientation stroll around scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple (open ~8:00–17:00) and the lively Old Quarter streets — great for photos and people-watching.
Try a classic Hanoi dish such as cha ca (grilled turmeric fish) or bun cha at an Old Quarter restaurant; many places open until late but check individual hours for peak season.
Visit the mausoleum area to learn about Ho Chi Minh’s legacy; the mausoleum usually opens 8:00–11:00 (closed on Mondays and Fridays and schedules can change in winter), so check opening times beforehand.
See a traditional water puppet performance (theatres run multiple shows daily; check the schedule) then dine at a nearby restaurant in the Old Quarter.
Early breakfast then transfer by road (approx. 3.5–4 hours) to Halong Bay harbour to board your 2-night cruise; confirm cruise check-in/boarding times with operator.
Board the boat, settle into your cabin and enjoy the included lunch as the boat begins cruising among limestone islands; cruising schedules and meal times vary by operator.
Join optional kayaking or small-boat excursions to caves and floating villages; activities usually run 14:00–17:00 and are included or offered as extras by the cruise company.
Enjoy lunch as the boat continues cruising; cruise menus often feature fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes — ask about any special Christmas arrangements when booking.
Enjoy a special dinner onboard – many operators offer a festive meal or relaxed seafood banquet; confirm whether special menus are provided and any supplement costs.
Take a domestic flight (approx. 1h20m). Book an afternoon flight to arrive into Da Nang with time to check into your hotel and enjoy an evening by the coast.
Take a morning transfer to Hoi An to wander the UNESCO-listed streets, Japanese Covered Bridge and tailors; Hoi An shops typically open from 8:00 but may vary during holidays.
Return to Da Nang for any final shopping, a spa treatment, or more beach time before onward travel; shops and spas commonly operate until early evening.