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13-Day Adventure Itinerary in Hanoi, Vietnam

Viewed by 127 travelers

Day 1: Explore Old Quarter

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Giang

Kickstart your first day with an authentic Vietnamese breakfast of 'pho' at Cafe Giang, renowned for its egg coffee.
Located in the Old Quarter, just a short walk from your hotel.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Just a 10-minute walk from your breakfast spot.
VND 20,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Relish a bowl of Bun Cha, a classic dish of grilled pork with noodles, popularized by Obama’s visit.
A quick 10-minute drive from Hoan Kiem Lake.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects at Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, an iconic symbol of Vietnam.
Take a taxi, about 15 minutes from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the One Pillar Pagoda

Discover the unique architecture of the One Pillar Pagoda, close to the Mausoleum.
A short walk of roughly 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Enjoy the famous Cha Ca, grilled fish with herbs, in a historic restaurant.
20-minute taxi ride from the pagoda.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Watch a Water Puppet Show

End your day with a traditional water puppet show at the Thang Long Theatre.
Just a 10-minute walk from dinner.
VND 100,000, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hanoi Social Club

Enjoy a healthy breakfast in a bohemian ambiance with options like avocado toast.
Located in the Old Quarter, within walking distance.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore Vietnam's rich culture and ethnic diversity in this well-curated museum.
Ride a taxi, taking about 15-20 min.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pho 10

Savor the city's best Pho, a must-try authentic Vietnamese dish.
Taxi ride back to the Old Quarter, about 20 min.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Cyclo Ride around the Old Quarter

Experience Hanoi in a traditional cyclo as you weave through bustling streets.
Pick up a cyclo just outside the restaurant.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at Dong Xuan Market

Dive into the local shopping scene at Dong Xuan Market, a bustling place for Vietnamese souvenirs.
A short walk from your cyclo drop-off point.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Taste a variety of Vietnamese street food dishes at this popular eatery.
A short taxi ride from the market.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Night Market Visit

Immerse yourself in the vibrant night market atmosphere, sampling street food and shopping.
Just moments away from your dinner location.
Free to browse, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Historical Sites

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Xoi Yen

Indulge in sticky rice dishes at this famous breakfast spot.
A short walk from your hotel.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site and delve into Vietnam’s history.
A quick taxi ride, about 10 minutes.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum

Discover Vietnamese art and exhibitions in an atmospheric setting.
A short 10-minute walk from the Citadel.
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nha Hang Ngon

Enjoy a lunch that showcases the country's regional specialties under one roof.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Peruse the beautiful grounds of Vietnam's first university, offering stunning architecture.
A short taxi ride, about 10 minutes.
VND 30,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Black Cat

Dine at this rooftop restaurant offering views of the Old Quarter while enjoying traditional cuisine.
Taxi from the temple, around 15 minutes.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening walk around the West Lake

Conclude the evening with a leisurely stroll beside the scenic West Lake, immersing in the tranquil views.
A taxi service will take approximately 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 4: Day Trip to Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your accommodation before your adventure.
Breakfast in-house.
Included with stay., 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Embark on a journey to Ninh Binh via a pre-booked tour bus.
Travel time approximately 2 hours.
VND 250,000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Tam Coc Caves

Row through the Tam Coc caves and marvel at the serene limestone landscapes.
Arrange a boat ride on-site.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a local restaurant

Savor local dishes like goat meat and rice while enjoying the countryside view.
Nearby restaurants offer a short walk from the boat dock.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Explore this beautiful pagoda tucked within the scenic mountains.
Short drive from lunch, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Travel back to Hanoi

Return to the transport hub to catch your bus back to Hanoi.
Bus organized by tour provider.
Included in your ticket., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pizza 4P's

Unwind with delicious pizza at one of Hanoi’s trending restaurants.
15-minute taxi ride from the bus drop-off.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 5: Ninh Binh Adventures

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before setting off for a day of exploration.
In-house breakfast.
Included with stay., 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Trang An on a guided boat tour.
Organized transport from the hotel.
VND 200,000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Enjoy a meal of delicious local cuisine at a roadside restaurant.
Conveniently nearby after the boat tour.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Step back in time at the ancient capital, visiting historical temples.
A quick taxi ride, roughly 15 minutes.
VND 30,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Bike through Countryside

Rent a bike and enjoy cycling through the peaceful rural routes of Ninh Binh.
Cycling station near Hoa Lu.
VND 50,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Local BBQ Place

Dine on BBQ dishes in an open-air setting to mingle with locals.
Head back to Ninh Binh town.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 6: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with another satisfying breakfast before heading back.
In-house breakfast.
Included with stay., 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel back to Hanoi

Take a tourist bus back to the bustling city of Hanoi.
Bus organized by your hotel.
VND 250,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Hanoi Botanical Garden

Enjoy a refreshing morning walk in the city's botanical garden.
Plan for a taxi ride from the bus station, roughly 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hanoi Street Food Tour

Join a street food tour where you can sample iconic dishes from various local vendors.
Group tour, venue provided by tour operator.
VND 250,000, 2 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Hanoi Opera House

Fascinate yourself with the incredible architecture of this colonial building.
Taxi to the Opera House takes around 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit St. Joseph's Cathedral

Marvel at the unique Gothic architecture of Hanoi's iconic cathedral.
Short walk from the Opera House.
Free, 30 minutes

5:15PM

Dinner at Home Vietnamese Restaurant

Savor traditional Vietnamese meals in a cozy setting to reminisce about your adventures.
Just a 10-minute walk from the cathedral.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 7: Cruise Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for your journey with an energizing breakfast at the hotel.
In-house breakfast.
Included with stay., 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Ha Long Bay

Take a tourist bus to commence your cruise adventure in Ha Long Bay.
Hotel organized transport, approximately 4 hours.
VND 300,000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Board the Cruise

Check-in and enjoy a delicious lunch with scenic views of the bay.
Cruise staff will be waiting at the port.
Included in your cruise package., 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Venture into one of Ha Long's most famous caves, famed for its stunning natural formations.
Boat ride to the cave entrance takes about 15 minutes.
Included in your cruise package., 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay

Experience the immense beauty of the bay while kayaking among the islets.
Kayaks provided by the cruise.
Included in your cruise package., 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Views on the Deck

Sip on drinks and enjoy the breathtaking sunset views from the cruise deck.
Onboard the cruise ship.
Purchase drinks as desired., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner on Board

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner of seafood specialties while surrounded by incredible views.
Meals included in your cruise package.
Included in your cruise package., 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ha Long Bay

Day 8: Continued Ha Long Bay Adventure

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

6:30AM

Tai Chi on Deck

Start your day with a rejuvenating Tai Chi session on the deck.
Join the morning session on the boat.
Included in your cruise package., 1 hour

7:30AM

Breakfast on Board

Enjoy a delicious breakfast while taking in stunning views of the bay.
Meals included in your cruise package.
Included in your cruise package., 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ti Top Island

Climb to the viewpoint for panoramic views of Ha Long Bay.
Boat ride to the island takes about 30 minutes.
Included in your cruise package., 2 hours

11:00AM

Swimming in the Bay

Cool off with a refreshing swim in the pristine waters.
Swimming area accessible from Ti Top.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch on Board

Savor a delectable lunch while sailing through more beautiful spots.
Part of your cruise experience.
Included in your cruise package., 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Floating Fishing Village

Learn about the local fishermen's lifestyle in a floating village.
Short boat ride to the village.
Included in your cruise package., 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Travel Back to Hanoi

Begin your journey back to Hanoi as the cruise concludes.
Return via pre-arranged bus.
VND 300,000, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Revisit the beloved fish dish that you enjoyed earlier in your trip.
Short taxi ride from your drop-off point.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ha Long Bay

Day 9: Hanoi Market Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Banh Mi 25

Try a delicious Banh Mi sandwich, a popular street food staple.
Conveniently located nearby.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Hang Da Market

Delve into the local lifestyle at this traditional market, offering everything from fabrics to food.
Just a short walk from breakfast.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter Again

Revisit the popular Heroin Alley and discover art and crafts shops.
Easy walking distance.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at 1976 Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes in a historic setting.
Only a 10-minute walk or taxi ride.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Night Market Area

Explore the stalls opening early for shoppers throughout the day.
Followed by a leisurely walk.
Free to browse, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Koto Restaurant

Taste sumptuous Vietnamese dishes that support a great cause, helping underprivileged youth.
Short taxi ride from the market.
VND 120,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 10: Adventure in Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

6:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before departing for Sapa.
In-house breakfast.
Included with stay., 1 hour

7:00AM

Travel to Sapa

Ride the train from Hanoi to Sapa, underway with amazing views of rice terraces.
Train station pre-arranged transport.
VND 1,000,000, 8 hours (including train commute)

3:00PM

Check into Hotel

Arrive in Sapa and check-in to your hotel for some rest.
Close to the train station.
Included with stay., 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Sapa Market

Wander through the market and interact with local tribes' people.
Short walk from your accommodation.
Free to browse, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hill Station Signature Restaurant

Revel in the culinary artistry of Sapa’s premium dining experience.
About a 10-minute walk.
VND 250,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Sapa

Day 11: Sapa Trekking

Sapa, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Replenish yourself at breakfast at your lovely hotel.
In-house breakfast.
Included with stay., 1 hour

8:00AM

Go Trekking in Fansipan

Embark on an adventurous trek up Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam, if you’re feeling up to it.
Hire a local guide for safe trekking.
Guided tours start at VND 1,500,000, Full day

6:00PM

Dinner back in Sapa

Savor a well-deserved meal at a local eatery after a long day of trekking.
Return to town after your trek.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Sapa

Day 12: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Sapa.
In-house breakfast.
Included with stay., 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel back to Hanoi

Train back to Hanoi with more scenic views along the way.
Pre-arranged train tickets.
VND 1,000,000, 8 hours (includes journey time)

4:00PM

Check into Hotel

Arrive back in Hanoi and check in to your hotel.
Conveniently located near your previous stay.
Included with stay., 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Hanoi Street Food

Partake in a street food tour and sample signature dishes one last time.
Tour organized through your hotel.
VND 250,000, 2 hours

8:00PM

Free Time in Old Quarter

Enjoy leisure time in the Old Quarter; shop, relax, or just soak in the atmosphere.
Short walk from dinner.
Free, As long as you like
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 13: Departure from Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a final breakfast of Vietnamese dishes before departure.
Enjoy your last meal in-house.
Included with stay., 1 hour

9:00AM

Check Out and Transfer to Airport

Check out from your hotel and take a taxi to the airport for your flight.
Taxi ride to Noi Bai Airport is about 40 minutes.
VND 300,000, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hanoi
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