7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a peaceful walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene spot in the heart of Hanoi where locals practice Tai Chi in the morning.
Hoan Kiem Lake is centrally located in Hanoi, easily accessible by walking from most accommodations.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Ta

Try the famous Vietnamese dish Bun Cha at Bun Cha Ta for an authentic culinary experience.
Bun Cha Ta is located in the Old Quarter, a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.
£5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Temple of Literature

Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, to immerse yourself in the country's rich history.
Take a short taxi ride or walk from the Old Quarter to the Temple of Literature.
£2, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a variety of Vietnamese street food at Quan An Ngon for dinner, a bustling restaurant offering a taste of local flavours.
Quan An Ngon is located in the Old Quarter, easily reachable from the Temple of Literature.
£7, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Explore Hanoi Continued

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Gain insights into Vietnam's history at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, known as the 'Hanoi Hilton' during the Vietnam War.
The museum is a short taxi ride or walk from the Old Quarter.
£3, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pho 10

Savour a bowl of traditional Pho at Pho 10, a local favourite known for its delicious broth and fresh ingredients.
Pho 10 is located near the Hoa Lo Prison Museum.
£4, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Old Quarter

Stroll through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, filled with shops, street food vendors, and historic buildings.
You can explore the Old Quarter on foot, taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Indulge in Cha Ca, a famous Hanoi dish of grilled fish, at Cha Ca La Vong, a renowned restaurant with a long history.
Cha Ca La Vong is located in the Old Quarter, perfect for an evening meal.
£8, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

8:00AM

Take Overnight Bus to Sapa

Catch an overnight bus from Hanoi to Sapa to save on accommodation costs and wake up to the stunning landscapes of Sapa.
Book a ticket at the bus station in Hanoi and settle in for the approximately 6-hour journey.
£10, 6 hours

3:00PM

Arrive in Sapa

Upon arrival in Sapa, check into your accommodation and rest before exploring the picturesque town.
Most accommodations in Sapa are within walking distance from the bus drop-off point.
Free, Rest of the day
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

9:00AM

Hike to Cat Cat Village

Embark on a trek to Cat Cat Village, a traditional Hmong village surrounded by terraced rice fields and stunning scenery.
Join a local tour or hire a guide to lead you on the hike to Cat Cat Village.
£5, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Little Sapa Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Little Sapa Restaurant, serving up delicious local dishes with panoramic views of the valley.
Little Sapa Restaurant is a short walk from the village.
£6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sapa Town

Wander around Sapa Town, visit local markets, and interact with the friendly hill tribe people known for their vibrant culture.
Sapa Town is compact and can be explored on foot.
Free, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Hill Station

Dine at The Hill Station for a fusion of Vietnamese and European cuisine in a cosy atmosphere.
The Hill Station is a popular restaurant in Sapa, perfect for dinner.
£10, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel from Sapa to Hanoi

Take an overnight bus or train back to Hanoi from Sapa and enjoy the scenic journey through the Vietnamese countryside.
Book your return ticket in advance and prepare for the journey of around 6-7 hours.
£10, 6-7 hours

3:00PM

Arrive in Hanoi

Upon arrival in Hanoi, check back into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring any spots you missed on the first day.
Most accommodations in Hanoi are centrally located, providing easy access to popular attractions.
Free, Rest of the day
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Ha Long Bay Day Trip

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Embark on a day trip to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands.
Join a tour or take a bus from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, approximately 4 hours away.
£20, 4 hours

12:00PM

Cruise on Ha Long Bay

Board a traditional junk boat for a cruise around Ha Long Bay, marvelling at the stunning karst formations and enjoying a seafood lunch on deck.
The cruise will take you to various scenic spots around the bay, providing ample photo opportunities.
£15, 4-5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Head back to Hanoi in the evening, reminiscing about the beauty of Ha Long Bay and the relaxing cruise experience.
Travel by bus from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi, with drop-off points in the city centre.
£20, 4 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Departure from Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

Flexible based on departure

Final Explorations

Depending on your departure time, explore any last-minute sights in Hanoi, pick up souvenirs, or indulge in one more bowl of Pho before heading to the airport.
Check out of your accommodation and arrange for transportation to the airport or your next destination.
Variable, Flexible
View Hotel Availability