4-Day Relaxing and Scenic Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Day 1: Hanoi Cultural Walk

Hanoi, Vietnam on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese breakfast of traditional pho in a highly-rated local eatery known for its rich flavors and fresh ingredients.
VND60000, 1h

9:30am

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

A scenic and serene morning walk around the picturesque lake in the heart of Hanoi, visiting the iconic Ngoc Son Temple on the lake’s small island.
VND30000, 1h30m

11:00am

Old Quarter Walking Tour

Explore the bustling streets filled with colonial architecture, small shops, and street vendors. Experience the traditional and modern side of Hanoi.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Taste the famous Hanoi dish bun cha, grilled pork with noodles, in the place where even President Obama dined.
VND120000, 1h

2:30pm

Temple of Literature

Visit this historic temple and Vietnam's first national university, enjoying the peaceful gardens and traditional architecture.
VND30000, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at a local cafe near Hoan Kiem Lake

Experience Hanoi’s famous egg coffee in a cozy cafe with a view of the lake, a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
VND50000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Enjoy the unique Hanoi delicacy 'Cha Ca,' a flavorful turmeric fish dish cooked at your table with fresh herbs.
VND150000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel in Hanoi

A light and easy breakfast before transfer to Ha Long Bay for a scenic cruise experience.
Included in hotel stay, 1h

8:30am

Transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Travel approximately 3.5 hours by comfortable shuttle bus to the UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its limestone karsts and emerald waters.
USD25, 3h30m

12:00pm

Boarding Ha Long Bay Cruise

Check-in and start a relaxing cruise, enjoying a scenic lunch on board while sailing amidst stunning limestone formations.
USD120 (including lunch and cabin), 5h

5:00pm

Onboard Leisure and Sunset Viewing

Relax on the deck or join optional activities such as kayaking or visiting caves, before viewing the beautiful sunset over the bay.
Optional: Kayaking USD10, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner on the Cruise

Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner prepared on board with scenic views of the bay at night.
Included in cruise fare, 1h30m

9:00pm

Overnight on Ha Long Bay Cruise

Spend a peaceful night onboard, surrounded by serene waters and beautiful natural scenery.
Included in cruise fare, Overnight
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Day 3: Ha Long Bay Relaxation

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Morning Tai Chi on Deck

Start the day with a calming Tai Chi session on the cruise deck while watching the sunrise over Ha Long Bay.
Free, 30m

7:30am

Breakfast on Cruise

Enjoy a buffet breakfast on board with a variety of fresh fruits, Vietnamese coffee, and pastries to energize your day.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island

Explore one of Ha Long Bay’s largest caves and relax on Titov Island's sandy beach, offering stunning panoramic views.
Included, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch on Board

Indulge in a fresh Vietnamese meal prepared on the cruise ship as you sail back toward the harbor.
Included, 1h

2:00pm

Disembark and Transfer back to Hanoi

Return by shuttle bus to Hanoi, enjoying the countryside scenery on the journey back.
Included in cruise package, 3h30m

6:00pm

Check-in and Rest at Hanoi Hotel

Relax and refresh after the day’s travel at your centrally located hotel in Hanoi.
Varies, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine

Dine elegantly with a view of Hoan Kiem Lake, enjoying well-crafted Vietnamese dishes in a relaxing setting.
VND250000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Countryside Escape

Hanoi, Vietnam on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading out to the countryside.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Duong Lam Ancient Village

Explore this well-preserved traditional village famous for its ancient architecture and peaceful rural atmosphere, just 50 km from Hanoi.
VND50000 (transport optional USD10-20), 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at local family restaurant in Duong Lam

Taste traditional northern Vietnamese home-style cooking in the village, highlighting fresh and local ingredients.
VND100000, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Hanoi, visit West Lake

Enjoy an afternoon visit around West Lake with its peaceful pagodas and gardens, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee break at a lakeside cafe

Sip a traditional Vietnamese drip coffee with a scenic lake view, soaking in the relaxing atmosphere.
VND60000, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Home Hanoi Restaurant

End your trip with a cozy dinner that beautifully presents Hanoi’s signature dishes in a traditional Vietnamese house setting.
VND220000, 1h30m
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