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12-Day Vietnam Adventure: Nature, City, and Relaxation

Viewed by 58 travelers

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Phở Thìn

Start your journey with a warm bowl of the famous Hanoi beef phở to fuel your day.
Walk to Hoàn Kiếm Lake to enjoy the serene views.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hoàn Kiếm Lake

Stroll around this picturesque lake and visit the Ngọc Sơn Temple.
Easy walk of 15 minutes from breakfast.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the bustling and colorful streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, sampling local street food along the way.
15-minute walk from the lake.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Ta

Indulge in some authentic Bún chả, a delicious local dish of grilled pork and noodles.
5-minute walk from the Old Quarter.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Learn about the revolutionary leader and visit his final resting place.
20-minute taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Water Puppet Show

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance that narrates folklore stories.
15-minute taxi ride from the mausoleum.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Savor Cha Ca, a unique northern dish featuring grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
15-minute walk from the theater.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Cultural Insights

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:30AM

Breakfast at Dinh Café

Start the day with a traditional Vietnamese egg coffee, a must-try in Hanoi.
10-minute walk from hotel.
VND 50,000, 45 minutes

9:30AM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Discover Vietnam’s first university and its beautiful traditional architecture.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Gain insight into Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups through artifacts and exhibitions.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nha Hang Ngon

Enjoy dishes from various regions of Vietnam in a charming setting.
15-minute drive from museum.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Hanoi Opera House

Admire the French colonial architecture and catch a rehearsal if you can.
15-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Explore the local market for souvenirs and handicrafts.
15-minute walk from the opera house.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Green Mango

Dine in a contemporary restaurant offering Asian fusion cuisine.
20-minute walk from the market.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Cruising Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Depart to Halong Bay

Travel by bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay to start your breathtaking cruise.
Both private and group shuttles available.
VND 350,000, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in to Cruise

Settle into your cabin and prepare for a welcoming lunch on board while cruising through stunning limestone karsts.
On the cruise ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Visit one of the largest and most beautiful caves, known for its impressive stalactites.
By tender boat from the cruise.
Included with cruise., 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kayaking in Halong Bay

Experience the beauty of the bay from up close while paddling through its secluded areas.
Kayak rentals provided by the cruise.
Included with cruise., 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening Cooking Class

Learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes from your cruise chef.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner on Board

Enjoy a seafood feast while overlooking the magnificent sunset over the bay.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Evening Movie Night

Relax on deck with a movie under the stars, a perfect way to wind down after a day of activities.
Onboard the ship.
Free, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 4: Halong Bay Adventures

Halong Bay, Vietnam

6:30AM

Tai Chi on Deck

Join an early morning Tai Chi session for a refreshing start to your day.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

8:00AM

Breakfast on Board

Fuel up with a healthy breakfast while admiring the morning scenery.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ti Top Island

Hike to the viewpoint for panoramic views and enjoy the sand beach.
By tender boat from the cruise.
Included with cruise., 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-out from Cruise

Check-out process and enjoy brunch before heading back to the mainland.
Back to the mainland.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

1:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Enjoy the scenic drive back to Hanoi with stops for breathtaking views.
By bus back to Hanoi.
VND 350,000, 3.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Hanoi Night Market

Wander through the street market offering local handicrafts and street food.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bún Thang

Savor a bowl of Bún Thang, a delicate noodle soup with various toppings.
10-minute walk from the Night Market.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 5: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

7:00AM

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Catch an early flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
Private transfer to the airport.
VND 1,200,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at L’Usine

Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast in a unique café setting.
10-minute taxi ride from the airport.
VND 120,000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Learn about Vietnam's history through powerful exhibits.
15-minute taxi ride from cafe.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Taste an iconic bowl of pho at one of the best spots in the city.
10-minute walk from the museum.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Reunification Palace

Discover the historical significance of this landmark and its well-preserved interiors.
15-minute walk from lunch.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

Admire the stunning architecture of this French-colonial cathedral.
10-minute walk from the palace.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Experience a unique dining atmosphere serving traditional Vietnamese dishes.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 6: Cultural Depths & Local Life

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Apartment

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast in a vibrant, multi-story café filled with unique options.
5-minute walk from hotel.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cholon District & Thien Hau Temple

Explore Ho Chi Minh's Chinatown and visit this ornate temple dedicated to the sea goddess.
20-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Shop for souvenirs, textiles, and local snacks in this bustling market.
15-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hai Sinh

Savor fresh seafood in a local-style setting.
5-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Take a guided tour through the network of tunnels that played a significant role in history.
1 hour drive from lunch.
VND 230,000, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a dinner featuring various regional dishes.
1 hour drive back.
VND 200,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 7: Explore the Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

7:00AM

Drive to Mekong Delta

Set out early for a day trip to explore the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta.
2-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City.
VND 300,000, 2 hours

9:30AM

Boat Ride on Mekong River

Get on a boat to navigate through the river's winding waterways, observing local life.
Arranged through tour operator.
Included in tour., 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Local Markets

Experience the vibrant floating markets, a quintessential part of Mekong life.
On the boat.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch on a Local Homestay

Enjoy a traditional meal prepared by a local family.
At selected homestay.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit a Coconut Candy Workshop

Learn about the traditional methods of making coconut candy and taste some.
By boat.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Traditional Crafts Village

Explore local craftsmanship at nearby villages producing traditional goods.
By boat.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Enjoy delicious river fish dishes before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.
By bus back.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta

Day 8: Charming Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Fly to Hoi An

Catch a morning flight to Da Nang, followed by a short transfer to Hoi An.
Private transfer from airport.
VND 1,000,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check-in to Hotel

Drop off your luggage and get ready to explore Hoi An.
5-minute walk to hotel.
VND 400,000, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Walking Tour of Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site, admiring the well-preserved buildings and vibrant shops.
Begin at the Japanese Covered Bridge.
VND 120,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Taste some of Hoi An's most famous dishes in a cozy setting.
5-minute walk from the Ancient Town.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Hoi An Market

Explore the traditional market filled with local produce and handicrafts.
5-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Bike Ride to An Bang Beach

Rent a bike to ride along the beautiful countryside to An Bang Beach for relaxation.
5 minutes on bike.
VND 50,000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman

Savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying views of the river.
15-minute bike ride back.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 9: Discover Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cargo Club

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with views of the river.
5-minute walk from the hotel.
VND 120,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Take a short trip to this local farm and learn about organic farming practices.
15-minute bike ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Cooking Class at Tra Que

Participate in a hands-on cooking class and learn to make local dishes.
On the farm.
VND 300,000, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Nha Hang Hoi An

Refuel with a delightful array of local dishes after your cooking class.
5-minute bike ride.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at An Bang Beach

Enjoy a lazy afternoon at the beach soaking in the seaside atmosphere.
10-minute bike ride.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bater Cafe

End the day with delicious local dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
20-minute bike ride back.
VND 180,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 10: Historic Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Hue

Board a morning bus or train to the historic city of Hue.
2-hour bus ride from Hoi An.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Imperial City

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hanh Restaurant

Indulge in some local specialties like Bánh bèo (water fern cake).
5-minute walk from the imperial city.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Admire the stunning architecture and views of the Perfume River.
40-minute boat ride from lunch.
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Tombs of the Emperors

Visit the ornate tombs belonging to the Nguyen dynasty.
30-minute taxi ride from the pagoda.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ancient Hue

Dine in an imperial-style restaurant that serves traditional Huế cuisine.
30-minute taxi ride.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 11: Cultural & Culinary Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bánh Mì Shop

Enjoy a Vietnamese baguette filled with various ingredients.
5-minute walk from hotel.
VND 50,000, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Cyclo Tour of Hue

Take a leisurely cyclos ride through the main attractions of Hue.
arranged through hotel.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Dong Ba Market

Experience local life at this vibrant market, great for shopping and tasting local foods.
15-minute walk from cyclo drop-off.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Bo Hue

Relish the salty and spicy goodness of this famous noodle soup specific to Hue.
10-minute walk from market.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cook a Huế Style Dish

Join a cooking class to learn about Huế’s unique culinary traditions.
At a local cooking school.
VND 250,000, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hue Cuisine

Enjoy a variety of Huế dishes served in a quaint restaurant.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 200,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 12: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Da Nang

Take a bus or train to reach the airport in Da Nang for your flight back to Hanoi.
2-hour bus ride.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Fly to Hanoi

Catch a direct flight back to Hanoi and prepare for your departure.
Airport transfer included.
VND 1,200,000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Last Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy one last meal of diverse Vietnamese dishes in a relaxed setting.
15-minute taxi ride from airport.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll Around Hoan Kiem Lake

Spend your last moments in Vietnam soaking up the atmosphere at this iconic lake.
20-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Pick up some last-minute souvenirs from the Old Quarter for memories of your trip.
15-minute walk from the lake.
Varies, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Viet

Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner featuring a fusion of traditional and modern cuisine.
15-minute walk from the market.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi
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