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6-Day Itinerary: Vietnam, Hoi An, Halong Bay

Friday, December 22: Arrive in Hoi An

Start your trip by arriving in the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Halls for a glimpse into Hoi An's rich history. Enjoy a delicious local lunch by the Thu Bon River. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to the nearby Kim Bong Carpentry Village and witness traditional craftsmen at work. As the evening sets in, wander through the Night Market and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere.

  • Ancient Town: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Free, 30 minutes
  • Assembly Halls: VND 80,000 (approximately $3.50), 1-2 hours
  • Kim Bong Carpentry Village: VND 20,000 (approximately $0.90) for boat ride, 2-3 hours
  • Night Market: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 23: Hoi An Countryside Tour

Embark on a scenic tour of the Hoi An countryside. In the morning, rent a bicycle and ride through picturesque rice fields and rural villages. Make a stop at Tra Que Vegetable Village and learn about traditional organic farming practices. Enjoy a cooking class and savor a delightful lunch with fresh ingredients. In the afternoon, visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village and try your hand at pottery making. End the day with a relaxing boat ride along the Thu Bon River, taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings.

  • Bicycle Rental: VND 30,000-50,000 (approximately $1.30-$2.20), 4-5 hours
  • Tra Que Vegetable Village: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.30) for entrance fee, 2-3 hours
  • Cooking Class: VND 300,000-500,000 (approximately $13-$22) including lunch, 2-3 hours
  • Thanh Ha Pottery Village: VND 20,000 (approximately $0.90), 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride: VND 150,000-200,000 (approximately $7-$9), 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Travel to Halong Bay

Leave Hoi An and head to the breathtaking Halong Bay. In the morning, catch a flight from Da Nang to Hanoi. From Hanoi, embark on a scenic drive to Halong Bay, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way. Arrive at the bay and board a traditional junk boat for a magical overnight cruise. Feast on a delicious seafood lunch as you sail through the emerald waters, passing limestone karsts and hidden caves. In the evening, enjoy a sunset kayak excursion and a sumptuous dinner on board.

  • Flight from Da Nang to Hanoi: Prices vary, approximately 1.5 hours
  • Drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay: VND 200,000-300,000 (approximately $9-$13), 3-4 hours
  • Overnight Cruise: Prices vary, inclusive of meals and activities
Monday, December 25: Halong Bay Exploration

Awake to the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay. In the morning, enjoy a Tai Chi session on the deck, followed by a visit to a floating fishing village. Immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the traditional way of life. After a hearty brunch on board, explore more of the bay's wonders by visiting hidden caves and pristine beaches. Take a swim in the turquoise waters or simply relax on the sundeck, soaking in the beauty of your surroundings. As night falls, indulge in a delicious dinner and enjoy some onboard entertainment.

  • Tai Chi Session: Free, 30 minutes
  • Floating Fishing Village: VND 30,000-50,000 (approximately $1.30-$2.20), 2-3 hours
  • Visit Caves and Beaches: VND 30,000-50,000 (approximately $1.30-$2.20), 3-4 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Return to Hanoi

Bid farewell to Halong Bay and return to Hanoi. In the morning, disembark from the cruise and travel back to Hanoi by road. Once in Hanoi, explore the vibrant Old Quarter with its narrow streets and bustling markets. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, and learn about the country's rich educational history. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum and gain insight into Vietnam's colonial past. End the day with a relaxing stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and witness the iconic Hanoi Opera House.

  • Return Road Trip: VND 200,000-300,000 (approximately $9-$13), 3-4 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Temple of Literature: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.30), 1-2 hours
  • Hoa Lo Prison Museum: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.30), 1-2 hours
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Departure

Take your last moments in Vietnam to explore any remaining sights or indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping. Head to the airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to the beautiful country and its warm hospitality.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Hoi An, make sure to visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village for an authentic glimpse into local farming practices. The village offers cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients. In Halong Bay, consider venturing off the beaten path and exploring the less crowded Lan Ha Bay. This hidden gem offers similar stunning landscapes as Halong Bay but with fewer tourists. Locals also love indulging in street food in Hanoi, so don't miss the opportunity to try delicious specialties like pho or banh mi from local food stalls.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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