7-Day Nature Itinerary: Exploring Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh & Halong Bay

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your journey with a leisurely walk around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, soaking up the serene beauty.
Head south from your accommodation, approximately 15 minutes walk.
0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Ngoc Son Temple

Discover the enchanting Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the lake, rich with history and stunning views.
Cross the red wooden bridge to the temple, which is a mere 5-minute walk.
20000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savour the famous Bun Cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish of grilled pork and noodles in a rich broth.
Located approximately 20 minutes walk north from the lake.
60000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through the Old Quarter

Wander through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter, taking in the local shops and stunning architecture.
Head back south towards the Old Quarter, about 15 minutes walk.
0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Visit the historic Hoa Lo Prison Museum, showcasing the turbulent history of Vietnam.
Walk about 20 minutes towards the museum from the Old Quarter.
30000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Enjoy a delicious dinner of Cha Ca, a local specialty of grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
A short 10-minute walk from the museum.
70000, 1 hour
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Day 2: Hanoi Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Thin

Start your day with a comforting bowl of Pho at Pho Thin, known for its unique preparation.
Take a 10-minute taxi ride to the restaurant.
50000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an iconic site in Vietnam's history.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Temple of Literature

Discover Vietnam's first university at the Temple of Literature, with its beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens.
A 10-minute drive from the mausoleum.
25000, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at KOTO Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at KOTO, a restaurant offering delicious Vietnamese dishes with a social mission.
A quick 10-minute drive from the temple.
100000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore diverse Vietnamese cultures at the fascinating Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
About 10 minutes by taxi from the restaurant.
40000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to the hotel to prepare for the evening.
A 15-minute taxi drive back.
0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hanoi Social Club

Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and tasty fusion meals at The Hanoi Social Club.
A 10-minute walk from your hotel.
120000, 1 hour
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Day 3: Journey to Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

5:00AM

Depart for Sapa via Train

Take an early morning train from Hanoi to Sapa and enjoy the beautiful countryside views.
Head to Hanoi Station, a 15-minute taxi ride.
500000, 8 hours (including transfer)

1:00PM

Arrive in Sapa and Check-In

Arrive in Sapa and check into your lovely guesthouse amidst stunning mountains.
Your guesthouse will be within walking distance from the station.
600000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Sapa Highland Restaurant

Taste authentic local dishes while enjoying breathtaking views of Sapa's hills.
A 10-minute walk from your guesthouse.
80000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Cat Cat Village

Explore the charming Cat Cat Village, known for its traditional Hmong culture and stunning waterfalls.
A 30-minute walk from the restaurant.
50000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Hill Station

Enjoy a delicious dinner made from locally sourced ingredients, providing a true taste of Sapa.
A 20-minute walk back into town.
120000, 1 hour

8:00PM

Relax in Your Guesthouse

Spend a relaxing evening in your guesthouse, admiring the starry night skies.
Back to your guesthouse.
0, 2 hours
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Day 4: Trek in Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Guesthouse

Enjoy a local breakfast provided by your guesthouse to fuel your day's trek.
At your guesthouse.
0, 1 hour

8:00AM

Start Trekking to Ta Van Village

Embark on a scenic trek to Ta Van Village, exploring lush rice terraces and traditional homes.
A guide can be arranged with your guesthouse.
300000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with a Local Family

Enjoy an authentic home-cooked meal with a local family in Ta Van, immersing yourself in their culture.
Meal prepared by your guide's family.
100000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Ta Van Village

After lunch, take time to explore the village and interact with locals.
With your guide's assistance.
0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Trek back to Sapa

Return to Sapa while enjoying the beautiful landscape.
With your guide for assistance.
300000, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Viet Flower Restaurant

Indulge in Sapa's famous mushroom dishes at Viet Flower Restaurant.
10 minutes walk from your guesthouse.
90000, 1 hour
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Day 5: Explore Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Guesthouse

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before departing for Ninh Binh.
At your guesthouse.
0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Leave for Ninh Binh and enjoy the scenic journey, which takes about 2.5 hours.
Private car or bus arranged by your guesthouse.
500000, 3 hours (including transfer)

11:30AM

Check-In and Lunch at Tam Coc Garden Resort

Check into your resort and enjoy a delicious lunch with a view of the lush landscapes.
Your resort is located in the Tam Coc area.
150000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Boat Tour in Tam Coc

Take a serene boat ride along the Tam Coc River, passing through stunning caves and rice paddies.
Boat hire available from the resort.
400000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Explore the majestic Bich Dong Pagoda nestled in the hills, offering tranquil surroundings.
A 15-minute bike ride from the boat dock.
0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Thuy Nguyen Restaurant

Dine on delectable local cuisine while enjoying the beautiful views of surrounding landscapes.
15-minute walk from your resort.
100000, 1 hour
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Day 6: Halong Bay Adventure

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Enjoy a fresh breakfast at your resort before heading to Halong Bay.
At your resort.
0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Halong Bay

Depart for Halong Bay, a journey of about 2 hours.
Your resort will arrange transportation.
300000, 2 hours (including transfer)

10:30AM

Board a Cruise Boat

Step aboard a cruise boat and begin your exploration of the breathtaking Halong Bay.
Your cruise booking will provide specific details.
2000000, 1 hour for boarding

11:30AM

Lunch on the Cruise

Savour a delightful seafood lunch while taking in the stunning scenery.
Onboard the cruise.
Included in the cruise package, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore Halong Bay

Take part in various activities like kayaking or visiting caves, exploring the beauty of the bay.
Arranged by your cruise operator.
Included in the cruise package, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return to the Dock

Conclude your cruise experience and return to the harbour.
Skipper will guide you back.
0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

End your day with a splendid seafood dinner at a local restaurant in Halong City.
A short walk or taxi ride from the dock.
150000, 1 hour
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Day 7: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for Hanoi.
At the hotel.
0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Hanoi

Travel back to Hanoi, a journey of about 2.5 hours.
Transportation arranged by your hotel.
300000, 3 hours (including transfer)

12:00PM

Lunch at Hanoi Street Food

Indulge in various street food options as you explore the streets of Hanoi one last time.
Take a 15-minute taxi from the hotel to the city.
50000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Last-Minute Shopping in Old Quarter

Spend your final hours in Vietnam shopping for souvenirs and enjoying the bustling streets.
Head back to the Old Quarter.
0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Head to Airport for Departure

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, cherishing the memories you’ve created.
Arrange transportation with your hotel.
200000, 1 hour
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