Six-Day City Experiences & Nature Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Laos and Hanoi

Day 1: Exploring Vientiane

Vientiane, Laos on May 19, 2024

8:00AM

Patuxai Monument

Start your day by visiting the iconic Patuxai Monument, also known as the 'Victory Gate'. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the monument.
The monument is centrally located in Vientiane and can be reached by walking from most accommodations.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

That Dam Stupa

Head to That Dam Stupa, a black stupa located in the city center. Learn about the history and significance of this ancient structure.
That Dam Stupa is a short walk from Patuxai Monument.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

COPE Visitor Centre

Visit the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the impact of UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) in Laos and the efforts to clear affected areas.
Take a leisurely walk to the visitor centre from That Dam Stupa.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Night Market

End your day at the Vientiane Night Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and enjoy delicious street food.
The night market is a short walk from the COPE Visitor Centre.
Budget-friendly, 2 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, Laos on May 20, 2024

8:00AM

Kuang Si Falls

Embark on a day trip to Kuang Si Falls, a stunning waterfall with turquoise pools perfect for swimming and relaxing in nature.
Take a local bus or shared minivan from Luang Prabang to Kuang Si Falls (around 45 minutes to 1 hour).
Low cost, Half-day

1:00PM

Royal Palace Museum

Visit the Royal Palace Museum to explore the history and culture of Laos through artifacts and exhibits.
Walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride from the falls to the museum.
Affordable, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Mount Phousi

Climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views of Luang Prabang and enjoy a beautiful sunset from the hilltop.
Walk to the base of Mount Phousi and hike up to the summit.
Low cost, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Luang Prabang Night Market

Explore the vibrant Night Market in Luang Prabang, filled with local handicrafts, textiles, and delicious street food.
The night market is located in the city center and can be easily reached on foot from Mount Phousi.
Budget-friendly, 2 hours
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Day 3: Continuing Luang Prabang Exploration

Luang Prabang, Laos on May 21, 2024

8:00AM

Alms Giving Ceremony

Experience the traditional Alms Giving Ceremony in the early morning to witness monks collecting alms from locals.
Walk to one of the main streets in Luang Prabang to participate in or observe the ceremony.
Free (donations welcome), 1 hour

10:00AM

Wat Xieng Thong

Visit the beautiful Wat Xieng Thong, a historic temple known for its intricate architecture and religious significance.
Walk to Wat Xieng Thong from the ceremony location.
Low cost, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Traditional Lao Cooking Class

Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Lao dishes using fresh local ingredients.
Most cooking classes offer hotel pick-up and drop-off services.
Moderate cost, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Mekong River Sunset Cruise

Relax on a Mekong River sunset cruise and enjoy the views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
Book a sunset cruise tour which usually includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Affordable, 2 hours
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Day 4: Arrival in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 22, 2024

10:00AM

Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your Hanoi exploration with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, a picturesque spot in the heart of the city.
Hoan Kiem Lake is centrally located and can be reached by walking or taking a short taxi ride from your accommodation.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Old Quarter Exploration

Stroll through the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its narrow lanes, traditional shops, and vibrant atmosphere.
Explore the Old Quarter on foot, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic area.
Free, 2-3 hours

5:00PM

Vietnamese Street Food

Indulge in delicious Vietnamese street food for dinner, trying local specialties like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.
Head to a popular street food area in the Old Quarter to sample a variety of dishes.
Budget-friendly, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Hanoi City Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 23, 2024

9:00AM

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum to learn about the history of the prison and its significance during the Vietnam War.
Take a short walk or taxi ride to the museum from your accommodation.
Low cost, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Temple of Literature

Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university and a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the Temple of Literature from the museum.
Affordable, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to pay respects to the founding father of modern Vietnam and learn about his legacy.
Take a taxi or public transport to the mausoleum from the Temple of Literature.
Low cost, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Water Puppet Show

End your day with a traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique Vietnamese art form depicting rural life and folklore.
Book tickets for a water puppet show in advance at a nearby theater.
Affordable, 1 hour
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Day 6: Final Day in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 24, 2024

8:00AM

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the diverse ethnic groups and cultures of Vietnam.
Take a taxi or public transport to the museum for a deeper understanding of the country's heritage.
Low cost, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

West Lake

Spend some time relaxing by West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to West Lake for a tranquil break from the city hustle.
Free, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Treat yourself to a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee, a local specialty that combines strong coffee with a creamy egg topping.
Head to a nearby cafe or coffee shop to savor this unique beverage.
Budget-friendly, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant in Hanoi known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes and bustling atmosphere.
Make a reservation or walk in to experience the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
Budget-friendly, 2 hours
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