14-Day Adventure in Hanoi: Explore Culture, Cuisine, and Nature

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Giang

Start your journey with a famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang, a beloved local spot.
You can walk or take a short taxi ride to reach the café from your hotel.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, visiting Ngoc Son Temple set on an island.
It’s a short walk from Cafe Giang, perfect for an easy morning stroll.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cha Ca La Vong

Taste the authentic Cha Ca fish dish, known for its unique blend of spices.
Head to Cha Ca La Vong via taxi, approximately 10 minutes.
VND 160,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Old Quarter

Wander through the bustling Old Quarter streets, discovering street vendors and shops.
Walk from the restaurant, it's about 1.2km away.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savour Bun Cha, grilled pork with rice noodles, a local favourite often enjoyed by Barack Obama.
It is a quick taxi ride from the Old Quarter.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening Water Puppet Show

Experience the traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.
It's a 10-minute walk back towards Hoan Kiem Lake.
VND 100,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Revel in a steaming bowl of traditional Pho at this famous local establishment.
A short taxi ride will get you there in about 15 minutes.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects at the mausoleum and learn about Vietnam’s revolutionary leader.
Follow this with a short walk to the complex.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at KOTO Restaurant

Enjoy delicious Vietnamese dishes while supporting a noble cause; they train disadvantaged youth.
Take a taxi, about 10 minutes from the mausoleum.
VND 150,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam’s first university and admire the ancient architecture.
It's a short taxi ride from KOTO, approximately 8 minutes.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ly Club Hanoi

Dine in an elegant setting with a mix of traditional and contemporary Vietnamese cuisine.
Take a local taxi, about 15 minutes from the Temple.
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Night Market Visit

Explore the vibrant night market in the Old Quarter, ideal for souvenirs and street food.
Walk to the Old Quarter; it’s about a 20-minute stroll.
Free, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Historical Divulgence

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 16, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Hanoi Social Club

Start your day with a western-style breakfast in a charming café.
A 15-minute taxi ride will get you to the café.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover the rich diversity of Vietnam’s ethnic groups through engaging exhibits.
It’s a 12-minute taxi ride from the café.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Delight in various traditional Vietnamese dishes in a local food court setting.
Take a taxi, approximately 15 minutes away.
VND 120,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll the Botanical Gardens

Relax in the tranquil gardens surrounded by lush flora and historical monuments.
A short 5-minute walk will get you there.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Presidential Palace

Admire the French colonial architecture and gardens surrounding the palace.
It’s adjacent to the Botanical Gardens.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Pho 10

Savour their renowned Pho which is embraced by both locals and tourists.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the palace.
VND 70,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Art and Architecture

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 17, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Note Coffee

Grab a coffee at this artistic café filled with sticky notes from visitors.
Walk from your hotel, around 15 minutes.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Fine Arts Museum

View works from Vietnam’s talented artists in this delightfully curated museum.
A 10-minute taxi ride will take you there.
VND 30,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Phin

Indulge in an array of light meals and beverages at this chic café.
It is a 5-minute walk from the museum.
VND 90,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Lotte Observation Deck

Have a stunning panoramic view of the city from the Lotte Tower's observation deck.
A taxi from the café will take around 10 minutes.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore West Lake

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the largest lake in Hanoi.
It's about a 15-minute taxi ride to the West Lake area.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Enjoy a wholesome meal filled with Vietnamese dishes in a lively setting.
Take a taxi, around 15 minutes from the lake.
VND 250,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Café Visit at Tranquil Books & Coffee

Unwind at this cozy café, perfect for book lovers and coffee enthusiasts.
Take a taxi, approximately 10 minutes away.
VND 60,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Halong Bay Adventure

Halong Bay, Vietnam on February 18, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel before departing.
Prepare for a 3.5-hour drive to Halong Bay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Halong Bay

Enjoy the scenic views during your journey to the stunning Halong Bay.
Transfers are typically arranged by your tour company.
Included, 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch on Cruise

Savour a seafood feast served fresh on the boat as you cruise through the bay.
Included in your cruise package.
Included, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Discover the stunning formations within the impressive Sung Sot Cave.
The cave is a popular stop on the cruise itinerary.
Included, 1 hour

5:00PM

Kayaking Experience

Paddle through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, exploring the stunning limestone karsts.
Kayaks are typically available through your cruise company.
Included, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner on Cruise

Enjoy an exquisite dinner aboard your boat while watching the sunset over the bay.
Included in your cruise package.
Included, 2 hours
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Day 6: Halong Bay Excursion

Halong Bay, Vietnam on February 19, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast on Cruise

Start your day with a delightful breakfast on board the cruise.
Included in your cruise package.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ti top Island

Climb to the viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of Halong Bay.
Part of your cruise itinerary.
Included, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy another delightful meal served on board as you relax.
Included in your cruise package.
Included, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Swimming and Sunbathing

Relax and enjoy some free time swimming in the emerald waters.
Typically arranged by your cruise.
Included, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Head back to Hanoi after a memorable trip in Halong Bay.
Travel time is about 3.5 hours.
Included, 3.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Minh Chai

Finish your day with a delicious meal featuring local flavours.
A 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel.
VND 120,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Nature Retreat

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on February 20, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Ninh Binh.
Preparation time is important for the journey ahead.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Enjoy a scenic drive to Ninh Binh, known for its staggering landscapes.
Allow approximately 2 hours for the trip.
Included, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Green Valley Ninh Binh

Enjoy a meal featuring local ingredients in a beautiful setting.
A quick drive from the main road to the restaurant.
VND 150,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Tam Coc Caves

Experience a boat ride through stunning rice paddies and limestone caves.
Short drive to departure point for the boat.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Hike up Mua Caves

Climb the stairs for outstanding views over the countryside.
A quick drive from Tam Coc around 15 minutes away.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hoa Lu Restaurant

Savour local specialities at this rustic eatery in the area.
It's about a 10-minute drive from the hike.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Stay in Ninh Binh

Check into a charming local guesthouse to rest after a fulfilling day.
Nearby accommodations can be found easily.
VND 600,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Countryside Discovery

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on February 21, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your guesthouse.
Fuel up for your countryside adventures.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Tour the historical remnants of Vietnam’s ancient capital and its temples.
A short distance from your guesthouse, around 15 minutes by taxi.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Cycle through the Countryside

Experience rural Vietnam by cycling through picturesque communities and rice fields.
Bicycles can be rented near Hoa Lu.
VND 50,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at local eatery

Taste authentic Vietnamese dishes at a local establishment.
Find a nearby eatery whilst cycling.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Explore this serene pagoda beautifully nestled against the mountains.
A short ride from your lunch spot.
VND 20,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Nice Restaurant

Wind down your day with dinner in a lovely setting.
Pick a local restaurant nearby.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Rest at Guesthouse

Unwind after a fulfilling day of exploration.
Return to your guesthouse for the night.
VND 600,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 22, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading back to Hanoi.
Prepare for your return journey.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Return to Hanoi

Travel back and relax during the scenic drive through the countryside.
About a 2-hour journey.
Included, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Madame Hien

Dive into classic Vietnamese dishes with a modern twist.
A taxi ride should take around 15 minutes from the city center.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Imperial Citadel

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in history and architecture.
A short distance from the restaurant, about 10 minutes by taxi.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Hanoi Opera House

Marvel at the neo-classical architecture and possible performances.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the citadel.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Chả Cá Thăng Long

Feast on the rich flavours of Chả Cá, a Hanoi signature dish.
About a 10-minute taxi ride.
VND 120,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Relax and Enjoy

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 23, 2025

8:00AM

Brunch at S'PANT

Indulge in an all-you-can-eat brunch with a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine.
A short taxi will take you to S'PANT.
VND 250,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Local Markets

Explore Thang Long and Dong Xuan markets for local handicrafts and products.
About 15 minutes away by taxi.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at xôi Yên

Savour the popular Vietnamese sticky rice alongside several delectable toppings.
Just a short 5-minute taxi ride from the markets.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at a Spa

Unwind with a traditional Vietnamese massage to refresh for your continued journey.
Book a nearby spa, typically less than 10 minutes away.
VND 350,000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at 69 Restaurant

Finish the evening with a selection of creative Vietnamese dishes in a stylish setting.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the spa.
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Cooking Class & Culture

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a diverse breakfast at your hotel.
Conveniently located within your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cooking Class

Learn to make famous Vietnamese dishes with a local chef in an interactive class.
Transportation to the class will be provided.
VND 1,200,000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cooking Class Location

Enjoy the fruits of your labour as you dine on your creations.
At the same venue.
Included, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Hanoi Hilton Prison Museum

Discover the sobering history of Vietnam's war and the stories of those who endured it.
A taxi ride will get you there in about 15 minutes.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Enjoy Egg Coffee at Giang Cafe

Experience the iconic egg coffee for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
A quick taxi ride from the museum, 10 minutes.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Legend Restaurant

Indulge in fine dining with contemporary Vietnamese and international flavours.
A short taxi ride from the coffee shop.
VND 400,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Leisure Day

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 25, 2025

9:00AM

Late Breakfast at Orchid Restaurant

Take the day slow with a relaxed breakfast at Orchid Restaurant.
Head towards Hoan Kiem Lake; around 20 minutes by taxi.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Free Day to Explore

Use this free time for the activities you enjoyed most from the previous days.
You’ll be in the heart of Hanoi, making it easy to explore further.
Free, -

1:00PM

Lunch at Noodle 5

Enjoy a bowl of comforting noodle soup and spring rolls.
Walk from the lake to the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Train Street

Witness the train navigating through narrow street cafés, a must-see phenomenon.
A short 15-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bun Bo Nam Bo

Savour the delicious Bun Bo, a Vietnamese beef noodle dish.
Take a taxi, around 10 minutes.
VND 90,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Shopping and Departure

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Refuel with breakfast before your day of shopping.
Conveniently located within your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shopping in Old Quarter

Seek out local crafts, souvenirs, and more in the vibrant old streets.
Just a walk from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Long Bien Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese food in a homey setting.
A short taxi ride from Old Quarter.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Dong Xuan Market

Explore this bustling marketplace for food, clothes, and handmade items.
Take a short taxi ride to the market.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Final Goodbyes

Enjoy your last few moments in Hanoi with a final walk around Hoan Kiem Lake.
A 15-minute walk from the market.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 14: Departure

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Catch your last breakfast in Hanoi at your hotel.
Enjoy one more meal in the vibrant city.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check-Out and Departure

Prepare for your journey home or onwards to your next adventure.
Ensure smooth logistics for your departure.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability