6-Day Itinerary in Hanoi and Sapa: Experience Vietnam's Culture and Nature

Day 1: Explore Vibrant Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Start your day with a hearty bowl of authentic pho at Pho Gia Truyen, known as one of the best pho spots in Hanoi.
Located in the Old Quarter, it's easily accessible on foot.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hoan Kiem Lake Walk

Stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can admire the picturesque scenery and visit Ngoc Son Temple.
The lake is just a short walk from your breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Dive into the rich culture of Vietnam at the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing diverse ethnic groups.
Take a taxi (15 minutes) from Hoan Kiem Lake to the museum.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savor bun cha, a delicious grilled pork dish served with vermicelli noodles, at the famous Bun Cha Huong Lien.
It's about a 10-minute taxi ride from the museum.
VND 75,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter, where you can shop and experience local street food.
Head back to the Old Quarter on foot (15 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Enjoy a Traditional Vietnamese Coffee

Indulge in a refreshing egg coffee at Cafe Giang, a local favorite that's a must-try.
A short 5-minute walk from the Old Quarter.
VND 50,000, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Experience the unique dish of cha ca, a flavorful fish dish cooked with turmeric, at this iconic restaurant.
Take a quick taxi ride (10 minutes) to the restaurant.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Wonders of Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Banh Mi 25

Start your day with a delicious banh mi – a Vietnamese sandwich filled with savory ingredients and fresh vegetables.
Located in the Old Quarter.
VND 35,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects to Vietnam's beloved leader at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore the surrounding gardens.
A short taxi ride (15 minutes) from your breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at KOTO

Enjoy lunch at KOTO, a social enterprise restaurant that trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality.
About 10 minutes away by taxi.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Temple of Literature

Explore Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature, filled with beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens.
A short taxi ride (10 minutes) from KOTO.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Water Puppet Show

Enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show, an ornate performance art native to northern Vietnam.
Head back to the Old Quarter via taxi (15 minutes).
VND 100,000, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Dong Xuan Market

Dive into local culture with a visit to Dong Xuan Market, where you’ll find a variety of shops and street food.
Within walking distance from the Water Puppet Show venue.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Madame Hanh

Taste some incredible street food dishes at Madame Hanh, known for its variety of food options.
Take a short taxi ride (10 minutes).
VND 80,000, 1 hour
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Day 3: Journey to Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

6:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start your day with a quick breakfast at your hotel before check-out, prepping for your travel ahead.
Depending on your hotel, most offer breakfast at 6:00AM.
Included, 1 hour

7:30AM

Travel to Sapa via Train or Bus

Catch a sleeper train or bus to Sapa, enjoying beautiful landscapes along the way.
Trains or buses depart from Hanoi railway station.
VND 600,000, 8 hours

3:30PM

Check-in to Hotel

After arriving in Sapa, check-in to your accommodation and refresh for an evening of exploration.
Many hotels are within walking distance from the bus/train station.
Varies based on hotel, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Cat Cat Village

Explore the charming Cat Cat Village, known for its stunning landscapes and local handicrafts.
A short taxi ride or walk from your hotel.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Hill Station

Choose from a variety of local dishes in a cozy atmosphere at The Hill Station.
About 15 minutes on foot from Cat Cat Village.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your day of adventure.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Trek to Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages

Enjoy a scenic trek through rice terraces to the traditional villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van, immersing in local culture.
A guided tour from your hotel can be arranged.
VND 400,000, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Local Homestay

Experience a home-cooked meal by a local family in Ta Van, providing a taste of Sapa's culinary delights.
Part of your trekking tour package.
Included, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return Trek

Trek back to Sapa, taking in the breathtaking views of the landscapes surrounding you.
Guided trek, back to your hotel.
Included, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Rest at Hotel

Relax and recharge at your hotel after a fulfilling day of trekking.
Leisure time until dinner.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at A Previous Meal or Local BBQ

Opt for another local restaurant or try the street BBQ for a delicious meal filled with fresh grilled meats.
Stroll down the street to find a BBQ spot.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before checking out and heading back to Hanoi.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Return to Hanoi via Train or Bus

Travel back to Hanoi and unwind as you enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Departure from Sapa bus/train terminal.
VND 600,000, 8 hours

5:30PM

Check-in and Refresh

Check back into your Hanoi hotel and take some time to freshen up after the long journey.
Most hotels are centrally located.
Varies based on hotel, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Tonkin Restaurant

Feast on traditional Vietnamese dishes at Tonkin Restaurant, celebrated for its flavorful meals.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Final Day in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Hanoi, savoring the flavors one last time.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Imperial Citadel

Explore the historical site of the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site with rich history.
A taxi ride from your hotel (15 minutes).
VND 30,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Green Tangerine

Indulge in a French-Vietnamese fusion lunch at Green Tangerine, famous for its cozy atmosphere.
A short walk from the Citadel.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Hanoi Opera House

Take a guided tour of the Hanoi Opera House and uncover its architectural beauty and history.
Easily accessible on foot from the lunch location.
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shop for Souvenirs

Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs at local markets or shops in the Old Quarter.
Return to the Old Quarter on foot (15-20 minutes).
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Com Pho

End your trip with a farewell dinner at Com Pho, known for its delicious rice dishes and friendly atmosphere.
A short ride close to your hotel.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours
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