7-Day Relaxation Itinerary in Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, and Hoi An

Saturday, December 2: Arrival in Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi! Start your trip by exploring the charming Old Quarter, with its narrow streets filled with shops and local markets. Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

• Hanoi Old Quarter: Free, 3 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1 hour
• Ngoc Son Temple: VND 30,000 (approx. $1.3), 1 hour
• Water Puppet Show: VND 100,000-200,000 (approx. $4.4-$8.8), 1 hour

Sunday, December 3: Halong Bay Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking cruise in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the stunning limestone karsts, visit floating fishing villages, and enjoy various water activities. Revel in the serenity and natural beauty of the bay.

• Halong Bay Cruise: From $100 per person, full day

Monday, December 4: Ninh Binh - Trang An Grottoes

Travel to Ninh Binh and visit the Trang An Grottoes. Take a boat tour through the scenic waterways, surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush greenery. Explore ancient temples and caves, including the famous Hang Mua (Mua Cave) viewpoint.

• Trang An Grottoes Boat Tour: VND 200,000-300,000 (approx. $8.8-$13.3), 5-6 hours
• Hang Mua (Mua Cave): VND 100,000 (approx. $4.4), 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Ninh Binh - Tam Coc Biking

Rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque countryside of Tam Coc. Cycle through rice fields, visit ancient temples, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through caves and admiring the natural scenery.

• Bicycle Rental: VND 30,000 (approx. $1.3), 4-5 hours
• Tam Coc Boat Ride: VND 150,000-200,000 (approx. $6.6-$8.8), 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Hoi An Ancient Town

Arrive in Hoi An and explore the enchanting Ancient Town. Marvel at the well-preserved architecture, enjoy the colorful lanterns, and stroll through the narrow streets filled with shops and art galleries. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Free, 4-5 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: VND 20,000 (approx. $0.9), 1 hour
• Assembly Hall: VND 20,000-30,000 (approx. $0.9-$1.3), 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 7: Hoi An Countryside Biking

Experience the serenity of Hoi An's countryside by cycling through scenic rice fields, peaceful villages, and local markets. Interact with friendly locals, learn about traditional handicrafts, and enjoy a leisurely day immersed in nature.

• Bicycle Rental: VND 30,000 (approx. $1.3), 4-5 hours
• Local Market Visit: Free, 1-2 hours

Friday, December 8: Relaxation and Departure

Spend your last day in Hoi An relaxing at the beach or indulging in a spa treatment. Take some time to soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, and reflect on your wonderful journey. Depart for your onward destination in the evening.

• Hoi An Beach: Free, flexible time
• Spa Treatment: From VND 300,000 (approx. $13.3), flexible time

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly relaxing experience, consider visiting the Bai Tu Long Bay near Halong Bay. This lesser-known bay offers tranquility and pristine natural settings, perfect for unwinding. In Hoi An, explore the countryside beyond the Ancient Town, where you can cycle through lush fields and discover hidden gems like Tra Que Vegetable Village.