Vietnam Adventure, Relaxation, Nature, and Cultural Immersion 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a peaceful walk around the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by historical temples and vibrant street vendors.
Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, easily accessible by foot or taxi.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long

Indulge in a traditional Vietnamese delicacy, Cha Ca (turmeric fish with dill), at the famous Cha Ca Thang Long restaurant.
Cha Ca Thang Long is located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.
$10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Temple of Literature

Immerse yourself in Vietnamese history at the Temple of Literature, the country's first national university and a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
The Temple of Literature is located in the Ba Dinh district of Hanoi.
$3, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Experience the famous dish Bun Cha while dining at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a favorite spot of former President Obama during his visit to Vietnam.
Bun Cha Huong Lien is situated in the Dong Da district.
$8, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cruise and Relaxation

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Embark on a Ha Long Bay Cruise

Set sail on a traditional junk boat excursion through the stunning limestone islands and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cruise departure points are located in Ha Long City, easily reachable from Hanoi by bus or car.
$150, Full Day

7:00PM

Dinner on the Junk Boat

Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner on the deck of the junk boat under the starlit sky, in the midst of the picturesque Ha Long Bay.
The junk boat will anchor at a scenic spot in Ha Long Bay for dinner.
Included in cruise package, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Historical Exploration

Hoi An, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit My Son Sanctuary

Discover the ancient ruins of the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the unique Hindu-influenced Champa architecture.
My Son Sanctuary is located about an hour's drive from Hoi An.
$15, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant

Treat yourself to authentic Vietnamese cuisine at the renowned Morning Glory Restaurant in Hoi An, known for its delicious local dishes.
Morning Glory Restaurant is situated in the heart of Hoi An's Old Town.
$12, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Stroll through the charming narrow streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, lined with historic yellow buildings, lanterns, and bustling markets.
Hoi An Ancient Town is best explored on foot, with various landmarks within walking distance.
$5 (entrance fee for some attractions), 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bale Well

End your day with a delightful dining experience at Bale Well, a local favorite renowned for its fresh spring rolls and barbecue skewers.
Bale Well is located near the Hoai River in Hoi An's Old Town.
$10, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Delights

Hue, Vietnam

10:00AM

Visit Imperial City

Step back in time as you explore the grandeur of the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the ancient citadel, palaces, and temples of the Nguyen emperors.
The Imperial City is located in the heart of Hue, easily accessible by foot or cyclo.
$8, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lac Thien Restaurant

Savor traditional Hue cuisine at Lac Thien Restaurant, known for its specialties such as Com Hen (clam rice) and Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).
Lac Thien Restaurant is situated near the Imperial City in Hue.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Thien Mu Pagoda

Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest religious building in Vietnam, overlooking the Perfume River and surrounded by beautiful gardens and bonsai trees.
Thien Mu Pagoda is a short drive from the city center of Hue.
$2, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ancient Hue Restaurant

Enjoy a royal dining experience at Ancient Hue Restaurant, where you can taste traditional imperial dishes inspired by the Nguyen dynasty.
Ancient Hue Restaurant is located in the historic district of Hue.
$20, 1 hour
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Day 5: Metropolitan Exploration

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into Vietnam's turbulent past at the War Remnants Museum, which displays exhibits related to the Vietnam War, including powerful imagery and war artifacts.
The War Remnants Museum is located in District 3 of Ho Chi Minh City.
$5, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Savor a bowl of authentic Pho at Pho 2000, a famous eatery visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton during his Vietnam trip.
Pho 2000 is situated in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City's bustling streets.
$8, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub for local vendors selling a variety of goods, souvenirs, and street food.
Ben Thanh Market is located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City.
Free, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Nha Hang Ngon, a popular restaurant serving a wide array of Vietnamese street food specialties in a chic setting.
Nha Hang Ngon is located near the central District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City.
$15, 1 hour
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