7-Day Itinerary for Siem Reap, Sapa, and Hanoi

Thursday, January 25: Arrival in Siem Reap

Morning: Explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, and witness the breathtaking sunrise. Afternoon: Visit the Angkor Thom complex, including the Bayon Temple and Terrace of the Elephants. Evening: Enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance.

• Angkor Wat: Entrance fee approx. $37, 3-4 hours
• Angkor Thom: Entrance fee approx. $20, 2-3 hours
• Apsara Dance Show: Ticket approx. $15, 1-2 hours

Friday, January 26: Siem Reap

Morning: Explore the enchanting temples of Ta Prohm, famous for its tree roots intertwined with the ancient ruins. Afternoon: Visit the Banteay Srei Temple, known for its intricate carvings. Evening: Explore the vibrant Pub Street for dining and nightlife.

• Ta Prohm: Entrance fee approx. $37, 2-3 hours
• Banteay Srei Temple: Entrance fee approx. $20, 2-3 hours
• Pub Street: Food and drinks approx. $10-20, evening

Saturday, January 27: Arrival in Sapa

Morning: Take a scenic train ride from Hanoi to Sapa, enjoying the picturesque landscapes. Afternoon: Explore the beautiful rice terraces and ethnic villages around Sapa. Evening: Relax at your hotel and experience local cuisine.

• Train ticket from Hanoi to Sapa: Approx. $20-30, 6-7 hours
• Exploring Sapa: Free or guided tour options
• Dinner in Sapa: Approx. $10-20

Sunday, January 28: Sapa

Morning: Embark on a trekking adventure to the stunning Cat Cat Village and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Afternoon: Visit the Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall for more breathtaking scenery. Evening: Relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.

• Trekking tour to Cat Cat Village: Approx. $15-30, 4-5 hours
• Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall: Entrance fee approx. $2-5, 2-3 hours
• Evening activities: Free or cultural experiences at local homestays

Monday, January 29: Sapa to Hanoi

Morning: Visit the bustling Sapa Market and shop for traditional handicrafts. Afternoon: Take the train back to Hanoi. Evening: Explore the Old Quarter and try local street food.

• Sapa Market: Free to explore
• Train ticket from Sapa to Hanoi: Approx. $20-30, 6-7 hours
• Old Quarter exploration: Free, food approx. $5-10

Tuesday, January 30: Hanoi City Tour

Morning: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and learn about Vietnam's history. Afternoon: Explore the Temple of Literature and the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Evening: Enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, closed on Mondays and Fridays
• Temple of Literature: Entrance fee approx. $2-3, 1-2 hours
• Hoa Lo Prison Museum: Entrance fee approx. $2-3, 1-2 hours
• Water puppet show: Ticket approx. $5-10, 1 hour

Wednesday, January 31: Departure from Hanoi

Morning: Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple. Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Hanoi's French Quarter and visit the iconic St. Joseph's Cathedral. Evening: Depart from Hanoi.

• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• French Quarter exploration: Free, shopping and dining options

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Siem Reap, don't miss out on visiting the lesser-known temples like Banteay Kdei and Preah Khan for a more serene experience. In Sapa, consider taking a homestay tour to immerse yourself in the local ethnic culture. In Hanoi, head to the Train Street and experience the unique sight of a train passing through a narrow residential street.

For hotel and flight bookings, check here.