Exploring North and Central Vietnam

Day 1: Hanoi Highlights

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a peaceful walk around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Free, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, filled with narrow lanes, street food vendors, and traditional shops.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savor the famous Vietnamese dish 'Bun Cha' at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a restaurant known for its delicious grilled pork and noodles.
50,000 VND, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Discover Vietnam's first national university at the Temple of Literature, a well-preserved complex showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture.
30,000 VND, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a variety of Vietnamese dishes in a charming courtyard setting at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant offering local cuisine.
200,000 VND, 1-2 hours

Day 2: Hanoi Cultural Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay respects to Vietnam's founding father at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where his embalmed body is on display.
Free, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Learn about Vietnam's history at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton', showcasing the country's struggle for independence.
30,000 VND, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long

Indulge in 'Cha Ca', a traditional Vietnamese dish of grilled fish with herbs and noodles, at Cha Ca Thang Long restaurant.
150,000 VND, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at Dong Xuan Market

Browse through the stalls at Dong Xuan Market, one of the oldest and largest markets in Hanoi, offering a variety of goods and souvenirs.
Free (Shopping costs vary), 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lotte Center Hanoi

Enjoy a panoramic view of Hanoi while dining at one of the restaurants in Lotte Center Hanoi, a modern skyscraper in the city.
300,000 VND, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Nature and Tranquility in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

8:00AM

Boat Tour at Trang An Grottoes

Embark on a scenic boat tour at Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning karst landscapes and caves.
200,000 VND (Boat tour), 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at a local restaurant in Ninh Binh, known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
100,000 VND, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Tam Coc

Visit the picturesque Tam Coc, often referred to as 'Halong Bay on land', and take a boat ride through the limestone karsts and rice paddies.
150,000 VND (Boat ride), 2-3 hours

Day 4: Imperial History in Hue

Hue, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit the Imperial City

Explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial City of Hue, a former capital of Vietnam with well-preserved palaces, temples, and gates.
150,000 VND (Imperial City ticket), 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ancient Hue Restaurant

Savor Hue's traditional cuisine at Ancient Hue Restaurant, known for its royal dishes and unique flavors.
200,000 VND, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thien Mu Pagoda

Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple overlooking the Perfume River and surrounded by lush gardens.
Free, 1-2 hours

Day 5: Cultural Delights in Hue

Hue, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Khai Dinh Tomb

Discover the elaborate architecture of Khai Dinh Tomb, a royal tomb blending traditional Vietnamese and European styles.
100,000 VND, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Madame Thu Restaurant

Indulge in Hue's famous 'Bun Bo Hue' soup at Madame Thu Restaurant, a local favorite known for its flavorful broth and tender beef.
80,000 VND, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Dong Ba Market

Explore Dong Ba Market, the oldest market in Hue, offering a wide range of local products, handicrafts, and street food.
Free (Shopping costs vary), 1-2 hours

Day 6: Charming Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

9:00AM

Walking Tour of Hoi An Ancient Town

Stroll through the well-preserved Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient houses, temples, and lantern-lit streets.
120,000 VND (Entrance ticket), 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant

Experience Vietnamese home cooking at Morning Glory Restaurant, a popular dining spot in Hoi An serving authentic local dishes.
150,000 VND, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Japanese Covered Bridge

Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, and admire its unique architecture blending Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese styles.
20,000 VND, 1-2 hours

Day 7: Hoi An Leisure Day

Hoi An, Vietnam

9:00AM

Relax at An Bang Beach

Spend a leisurely day at An Bang Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline near Hoi An perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside dining.
Free, Half day

1:00PM

Lunch at Soul Kitchen

Enjoy fresh seafood and international cuisine at Soul Kitchen, a beachfront restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere and scenic views.
250,000 VND, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Hoi An Night Market

Browse through the stalls at Hoi An Night Market, where you can find a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products.
Free (Shopping costs vary), 1-2 hours