Family Friendly 5-Day Vietnam and Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, known for its scenic beauty and the iconic Turtle Tower.
Hoan Kiem Lake is centrally located in Hanoi and can be reached by walking or taking a short taxi ride from most hotels.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Stroll through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, filled with shops, street food vendors, and historic architecture.
The Old Quarter is a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, making it a convenient next stop.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a famous spot known for its delicious Bun Cha dish.
Bun Cha Huong Lien is located in the Old Quarter and is a popular dining spot among locals and tourists.
20 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Immerse yourself in Vietnam's rich history by exploring the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university.
The Temple of Literature is a short drive from the Old Quarter and can be easily reached by taxi.
5 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Indulge in a variety of Vietnamese dishes at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant offering local flavors in a vibrant setting.
Quan An Ngon is located near the Old Quarter, perfect for a relaxing dinner after a day of exploration.
30 USD, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Delights of Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a significant historical and political landmark in Vietnam.
The mausoleum is a short distance from the Old Quarter and can be reached by taxi or public transportation.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, showcasing cultural artifacts and exhibitions.
The museum is located outside the city center and can be accessed by taxi or a hired car.
3 USD, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at KOTO Van Mieu Training Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at KOTO Van Mieu Training Restaurant, a social enterprise supporting disadvantaged youth through culinary training.
The restaurant is close to the museum, offering a meaningful dining experience with a cause.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at Dong Xuan Market

Explore Dong Xuan Market, one of Hanoi's largest indoor markets, perfect for shopping for souvenirs and local goods.
Dong Xuan Market is located in the Old Quarter and is a short walk from the museum, ideal for an afternoon shopping spree.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Treat your taste buds to Cha Ca La Vong, a famous Hanoi dish of grilled fish served with herbs and noodles, at the historic restaurant.
Cha Ca La Vong is a traditional restaurant in the Old Quarter, offering a unique dining experience for dinner.
25 USD, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cruise Adventure in Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Embark on a Halong Bay Cruise

Start your day by boarding a cruise to explore the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of Halong Bay.
From Hanoi, take a 3.5-hour scenic drive to Halong Bay to reach the cruise port.
Cost included in cruise package, Full day

1:00PM

Seafood Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board the cruise while taking in the breathtaking views of Halong Bay.
Lunch is typically provided as part of the cruise package, offering a taste of fresh local seafood.
Included, 1 hour

4:00PM

Kayaking in Halong Bay

Experience the beauty of Halong Bay up close by kayaking through the limestone formations and hidden caves.
The cruise will provide kayaking equipment and guides for a memorable adventure on the emerald waters.
Included, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner with Sunset Views

Savor a scrumptious dinner on the cruise deck, surrounded by the magical sunset hues of Halong Bay.
Enjoy a relaxing evening onboard, watching the sunset over the bay while dining on fresh Vietnamese cuisine.
Included, 2 hours
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Day 4: Discovering Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Marble Mountains

Explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and panoramic views.
From Halong Bay, take a flight to Da Nang, followed by a short drive to the Marble Mountains.
5 USD, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ba Duong Restaurant

Taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Ba Duong Restaurant, known for its local specialties and charming ambiance.
Ba Duong Restaurant is located near the Marble Mountains, offering a convenient dining spot after sightseeing.
20 USD, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore My Khe Beach

Relax on the pristine shores of My Khe Beach, a popular stretch of white sand known for its clear waters and gentle waves.
My Khe Beach is a short drive from the Marble Mountains, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Linh Ung Pagoda

Admire the beauty of Linh Ung Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple with a towering statue of the Goddess of Mercy overlooking the sea.
Linh Ung Pagoda is located near My Khe Beach, offering a peaceful retreat for spiritual reflection.
2 USD, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Apsara Restaurant

Enjoy a fusion of Vietnamese and international flavors at Apsara Restaurant, known for its delicious seafood dishes and riverfront setting.
Apsara Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Da Nang, perfect for a relaxing dinner after a day of exploration.
30 USD, 2 hours
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Day 5: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Explore the poignant exhibits at the War Remnants Museum, offering insights into the Vietnam War and its impact on the country.
From Da Nang, take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City and then a short taxi ride to the museum.
3 USD, 2 hours

11:00AM

Discover Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and experiencing local culture.
Ben Thanh Market is located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Savor a bowl of traditional pho at Pho 2000, a famous eatery frequented by former U.S. President Bill Clinton.
Pho 2000 is located near Ben Thanh Market, offering a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a presidential history.
10 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Notre Dame Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral, a French colonial church in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
Notre Dame Cathedral is a short walk from Ben Thanh Market, allowing for easy exploration of the historic site.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Take a leisurely stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a pedestrian promenade lined with shops, cafes, and vibrant street performances.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a popular evening destination in the city, perfect for soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Indulge in a culinary feast at Nha Hang Ngon, a renowned restaurant offering a variety of Vietnamese street food in a charming setting.
Nha Hang Ngon is located near Nguyen Hue Walking Street, ideal for a delightful dinner experience to conclude your day in Ho Chi Minh City.
25 USD, 2 hours
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