Exploring Vietnam: Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Cultural Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Commence with a serene stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, encapsulating Hanoi's charm and tranquility.
Hoan Kiem Lake is conveniently situated in the Old Quarter, easily accessible on foot or by taxi.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Old Quarter

Immerse in the vibrancy of the Old Quarter's streets, adorned with quaint shops, street food vendors, and historic temples.
Best explored on foot to relish the narrow alleys and lively ambiance.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Delight in the famed bun cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a culinary gem famously visited by Barack Obama.
Located a short walk from the Old Quarter, this eatery ensures an authentic Vietnamese dining experience.
10 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Temple of Literature

Unravel the historical richness of the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's inaugural university and an architectural marvel.
A brief taxi ride from the Old Quarter, offering insights into Vietnam's academic past.
3 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Savor diverse Vietnamese flavors at Quan An Ngon, celebrated for its extensive menu and genuine taste.
Near the Old Quarter, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.
15 USD, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Hanoi to Halong Bay Adventure

Halong Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Halong Bay

Embark on a scenic journey to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and limestone islands.
Opt for a pre-booked tour or bus ride from Hanoi to Halong Bay, usually taking around 4 hours.
30 USD (round trip), 4 hours

12:00PM

Board the Cruise

Step aboard a traditional junk boat for a cruise around Halong Bay, navigating stunning karst formations and hidden caves.
Your tour operator will arrange the cruise departure from Halong Bay's port, offering onboard meals and activities.
Included in tour package, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Boat

Enjoy a scrumptious lunch on the boat, featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties amidst breathtaking scenery.
Served onboard as you sail through the picturesque waters of Halong Bay.
Included in tour package, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kayaking or Swimming

Engage in kayaking or swimming in the bay's crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves and tranquil lagoons.
Guided by the crew, this activity offers an up-close encounter with Halong Bay's natural beauty.
Included in tour package, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner on the Boat

Relish a delectable dinner onboard, relishing the sunset over the limestone formations for a magical dining experience.
Served under the starlit sky, creating an unforgettable evening on Halong Bay.
Included in tour package, 2 hours
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Day 3: Halong Bay Exploration Continues

Halong Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Trek to Surprise Cave

Embark on a morning trek to Surprise Cave, one of Halong Bay's most renowned caverns with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites.
Guided by local experts, this moderate hike offers panoramic views of the bay from the cave's entrance.
5 USD (entrance fee), 2 hours

11:00AM

Cruise to Ti Top Island

Indulge in a cruise to Ti Top Island for sunbathing, swimming, and panoramic vistas of Halong Bay from the island's summit.
Accessible by boat, this island escape allows for relaxation and exploration.
Included in tour package, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Boat

Savor a final lunch on the boat before disembarking, enjoying the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine against the backdrop of Halong Bay.
Aboard the cruise vessel, providing a fitting finale to your Halong Bay experience.
Included in tour package, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Bid farewell to Halong Bay and journey back to Hanoi, reminiscing about the natural wonders and tranquility of the bay.
Travel by bus or private transfer for the return trip to Hanoi, lasting approximately 4 hours.
30 USD (round trip), 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ngon Villa

Unwind with a delectable dinner at Ngon Villa, offering a blend of Vietnamese and international cuisines in an elegant setting.
Situated in Hanoi, this restaurant provides a sophisticated dining experience after your Halong Bay adventure.
20 USD, 2 hours
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Day 4: Hoi An Heritage Exploration

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Arrive in Hoi An

Arrive in the ancient town of Hoi An, renowned for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural heritage.
Either take a domestic flight or overnight train from Hanoi to Da Nang, followed by a short transfer to Hoi An.
50 USD (flight) / 30 USD (train), 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Embark on a walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, meandering through its charming alleyways and visiting historic sites like Japanese Covered Bridge and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.
Travel on foot to gaze at Hoi An's illustrious past and architectural splendors.
5 USD (entrance fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Delight in a sumptuous meal at Morning Glory, a renowned restaurant serving traditional Hoi An delicacies amidst a vibrant ambiance.
Located in the heart of Hoi An, offering authentic flavors and a relaxing dining experience.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Embark on a cycling tour to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can partake in farming activities and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.
A short bike ride from Hoi An, allowing you to engage with local farmers and experience rural life.
10 USD, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cargo Club

Indulge in a delectable dinner at Cargo Club, a waterfront restaurant offering a fusion of Western and Vietnamese cuisines with views of Thu Bon River.
Located in Hoi An, providing a picturesque setting for a memorable dining experience by the river.
25 USD, 2 hours
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Day 5: Hoi An Cultural Exploration

Hoi An, Vietnam

9:00AM

Bike to Cua Dai Beach

Cycle to Cua Dai Beach, a tranquil stretch of coastline popular for its soft sands and azure waters, ideal for sunbathing and seaside relaxation.
Rent a bike and enjoy the scenic ride to Cua Dai Beach from Hoi An, offering a refreshing escape by the sea.
5 USD (bike rental), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bale Well

Savor a flavorful lunch at Bale Well, known for its specialty dish, Cao Lau, a traditional Hoi An noodle dish with distinct local flavors.
Situated in Hoi An, indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine at this beloved local eatery.
10 USD, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Hoi An Silk Village

Discover the art of silk production at Hoi An Silk Village, witnessing the intricate process of silk weaving and exploring artisan workshops.
A short drive from Hoi An, this village tour offers insights into Vietnam's silk heritage and craftsmanship.
8 USD (entrance fee), 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll Along Lantern-Lit Streets

Amble through Hoi An's lantern-lit streets at dusk, admiring the magical ambiance created by the colorful lanterns illuminating the town.
Wander through the enchanting alleys of Hoi An, experiencing the beauty of the lantern festival atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mango Mango

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Mango Mango, offering a fusion of Vietnamese and Western dishes in a charming setting.
Nestled in Hoi An's Old Town, this riverside restaurant provides a relaxing dining experience with scenic views.
30 USD, 2 hours
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Day 6: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Depart for Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's bustling metropolis, known for its dynamic culture, historic landmarks, and culinary scene.
Catch a domestic flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City for a swift and convenient journey.
100 USD (flight), 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Kick off your exploration of Ho Chi Minh City with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, a bustling marketplace offering a plethora of local products and street food.
Located in the city center, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this iconic market.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nha Hang Ngon

Delight in a variety of Vietnamese street food delights at Nha Hang Ngon, a popular restaurant offering an array of local specialties under one roof.
Situated near Ben Thanh Market, savor the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in a lively setting.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore War Remnants Museum

Gain poignant insights into Vietnam's wartime history at the War Remnants Museum, featuring exhibits related to the Vietnam War.
Located in the city center, delve into the museum's exhibits and artifacts documenting Vietnam's past struggles.
3 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Secret Garden

Dine at Secret Garden, a rooftop restaurant offering a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle with authentic Vietnamese dishes in a serene ambiance.
Hidden in Ho Chi Minh City's urban landscape, enjoy a peaceful dinner setting at this gem of a restaurant.
20 USD, 2 hours
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Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City History & Farewell

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels

Embark on a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network used during the Vietnam War for military operations and living quarters.
Travel outside the city center for a historical excursion, exploring the underground passages of the Cu Chi Tunnels.
10 USD (guided tour), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Relish a bowl of pho at Pho 2000, a renowned eatery frequented by former U.S. President Bill Clinton, known for its flavorsome noodle soup.
Located near the Cu Chi Tunnels, enjoy a satisfying meal before heading back to the city center.
10 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Bitexco Financial Tower

Admire panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the observation deck of Bitexco Financial Tower, a modern landmark in the city's skyline.
In the city center, ascend to the tower's viewing platform for breathtaking vistas of Ho Chi Minh City.
5 USD, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Refinery

Conclude your Vietnam journey with a memorable dinner at The Refinery, a chic bistro serving French-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting.
Located centrally, dine in style at The Refinery for a sophisticated farewell to your Vietnamese adventure.
30 USD, 2 hours
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