Want an itinerary like this for your trip?
Tell us where you're going and get a personalized plan in seconds — completely free.
Plan My Trip

5 Nights in Vietnam: Explore Hanoi and Ha Long Bay

Viewed by 145 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Phở Gia Truyền

Start your day with the famous Vietnamese phở, prepared by a family that has been perfecting the recipe for generations. It's a true taste of Hanoi.
VND50000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around this picturesque lake and take in the serene beauty of Ngoc Son Temple situated on an island within the lake.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the buzzing streets filled with shops, street food vendors, and colonial architecture. Don't miss out on the famous '36 Streets'.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Ta

Savour the local delicacy of bun cha, grilled pork served with rice noodles and fresh herbs, creating a refreshing and satisfying lunch.
VND70000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Explore this iconic site to learn about the life of Vietnam’s revered leader, Ho Chi Minh, and witness the changing of the guards.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Enjoy Cha Ca, a renowned Hanoi dish consisting of grilled fish mixed with turmeric and dill, served with vermicelli and peanuts.
VND150000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Cultural Discoveries

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hanoi Social Club

This trendy café serves a delightful breakfast menu with fresh juices, smoothies, and an excellent take on eggs Benedict.
VND100000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Dive into Vietnam's history at this ancient university dedicated to Confucius and a vibrant place to understand Vietnamese culture.
VND30000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Tour the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover the diverse cultures of Vietnam's ethnic groups through engaging exhibits and artifacts. A must-see for history buffs!
VND40000, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Daluva

This restaurant serves a fusion of Vietnamese and Western cuisine, offering a great selection of vegetarian options too.
VND120000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Enjoy a Water Puppet Show

Experience the traditional Vietnamese art of water puppetry, featuring colourful puppets performing stories inspired by rural life.
VND100000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Koto

This training restaurant employs street kids and serves delicious Vietnamese dishes, contributing to social causes while enjoying your meal.
VND130000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Cruising Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on February 27, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up before your journey, enjoying a spread of local Vietnamese pastries and fresh fruit.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Ha Long Bay

Take a scenic bus ride to Ha Long Bay, famed for its emerald waters and limestone islands topped with rainforests.
VND250000, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Join a cruise and enjoy a buffet lunch of fresh seafood while sailing through this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site.
VND600000, 2 hours

2:30PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Visit one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay, filled with stunning rock formations and a fascinating history.
VND50000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay

Get up close to the stunning karst landscapes while kayaking among the tranquil waters of the bay.
VND300000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner on the Cruise

Indulge in another delicious dinner onboard, featuring freshly caught seafood and local cuiisine.
Included, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ha Long Bay

Day 4: Continued Exploration

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on February 28, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast on the Cruise

Enjoy a delightful breakfast aboard the cruise with options like pancakes, eggs, and fresh fruit.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Ti Top Island

Relax on the sandy beaches and hike up to the viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the surrounding bay.
FREE, 2 hours

11:00AM

Swimming in the Bay

Jump into the pristine waters for a refreshing swim among the stunning scenery.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy another fresh seafood buffet while taking in the views of the bay.
Included, 2 hours

2:30PM

Visit Floating Villages

Explore the unique lifestyle of fishermen living on the water, visit their floating houses and learn about their culture.
VND40000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

After returning to the mainland, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Vietnamese barbecue.
VND120000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ha Long Bay

Day 5: Final Day in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on March 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bread & Butter

Indulge in a Western-style breakfast featuring freshly baked bread, pastries, and excellent coffee to kickstart your day.
VND95000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Discover the history of Vietnam's struggle for independence and the stories of the political prisoners held here.
VND40000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich history of Hanoi over thousands of years.
VND30000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Green Grape

This highly-rated eatery offers healthy and delicious Vietnamese dishes in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a final meal.
VND110000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Last-minute Shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Experience the local hustle and bustle while shopping for souvenirs and local crafts before you depart.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Home Hanoi Restaurant

Savor a farewell dinner featuring classic Vietnamese dishes in a welcoming setting, ensuring a memorable end to your trip.
VND130000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi
0
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Vietnam, Hanoi, ha long bay, beach, sites, attractions, must do, 5 nights Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go