Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Thailand 7-Day Itinerary

Friday, October 20, 2023: Arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam

Morning: After arriving in Hanoi, start your day with a visit to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can take a leisurely walk or rent a paddleboat. Visit the Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island in the lake.

Afternoon: Explore the bustling Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and French colonial architecture. Don't miss the chance to try some delicious street food and shop for souvenirs at the local markets.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre: Estimated cost - $5-10, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su, a popular local spot known for its delicious pho noodle soup. The average cost for a meal here is about 70,000 VND (around $3) per person.
• For lunch, try Bun Cha Huong Lien, the restaurant made famous by former President Barack Obama's visit. Enjoy their signature dish, bun cha, a combination of grilled pork and noodles. The average cost for a meal here is about 100,000 VND (around $4.50) per person.
• For dinner, visit Quan An Ngon, a bustling eatery offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes. This restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere and flavorful cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about 200,000 VND (around $9) per person.

Saturday, October 21, 2023: Ninh Binh Day Trip

Morning: Take a day trip to Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." Visit the famous Trang An Landscape Complex and take a boat ride through the scenic karst mountains and lush greenery.

Afternoon: Explore the ancient city of Hoa Lu, the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Visit the historic temples dedicated to the kings of that era.

Evening: Return to Hanoi and indulge in some authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the Old Quarter.

• Trang An Landscape Complex: Estimated cost - $15-20, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Hoa Lu Ancient City: Estimated cost - $2-5, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dinner in the Old Quarter: Estimated cost - $10-20, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 22, 2023: Explore Hanoi

Morning: Visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the preserved body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader is displayed. Explore the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum and One Pillar Pagoda.

Afternoon: Stroll through the beautiful Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, established in 1070. Discover its tranquil gardens and ancient architecture.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese egg coffee at one of the cafes in Hanoi's French Quarter.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• One Pillar Pagoda: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
• Temple of Literature: Estimated cost - $2-5, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Egg coffee: Estimated cost - $2-5, Time spent - 1 hour

Monday, October 23, 2023: Halong Bay Cruise

Morning: Depart from Hanoi to Halong Bay for a memorable overnight cruise. Enjoy stunning views of the limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters of the bay.

Afternoon: Explore the caves and grottoes of Halong Bay, such as Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave. Take part in kayaking or swimming activities.

Evening: Experience a sunset dinner aboard the cruise, followed by squid fishing or simply relaxing on the deck.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - $100-200 (including transportation), Time spent - Overnight
• Caving and activities: Estimated cost - Included in the cruise package, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sunset dinner and onboard activities: Estimated cost - Included in the cruise package, Time spent - Evening

Tuesday, October 24, 2023: Return to Hanoi and Depart to Thailand

Morning: Disembark from the cruise and return to Hanoi. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups.

Afternoon: Depart from Noi Bai International Airport and fly to your chosen destination in Thailand.

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Estimated cost - $2-5, Time spent - 2 hours
• Flight from Hanoi to Thailand: Check flight prices here

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Hanoi, be sure to explore the vibrant Ba Dinh Square, where you can witness the changing of the guards at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Don't miss the opportunity to try bia hoi, a refreshing Vietnamese draft beer, at one of the lively street-side beer joints. For authentic local cuisine, head to the atmospheric food stalls in the Hang Buom area of the Old Quarter.