5-Day Hanoi and Halong Bay Culinary and Cultural Journey

Day 1: Historic Hanoi Introduction

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Enjoy an authentic bowl of Hanoi’s famous pho, with fragrant broth and fresh herbs, to start your Vietnamese culinary experience.
VND60000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Stroll around the peaceful lake and visit the historic Ngoc Son Temple in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
VND30000, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known for its narrow lanes and traditional shops, showcasing Hanoi’s vibrant culture.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savor the iconic Northern Vietnamese dish Bun Cha, grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles and dipping sauce.
VND80000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Temple of Literature

Explore Vietnam's first university, a serene complex dedicated to Confucius and scholars, showcasing fine traditional architecture.
VND30000, 1h0m

3:30pm

Coffee Workshop at The Note Cafe

Learn about Vietnamese coffee culture and brewing techniques in this cozy cafe known for its creative coffee art.
VND100000, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Taste Cha Ca – a famous Hanoi specialty of grilled fish with turmeric and dill, served tableside with rice noodles.
VND150000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise

Halong Bay, Vietnam on May 2, 2025

7:00am

Depart Hanoi to Halong Bay

Travel via shuttle or private car to Halong Bay, about 3.5 hours from Hanoi, for your day cruise.
USD50 (transport + cruise), 3h30m

11:00am

Halong Bay Day Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise through the limestone karsts and emerald waters, with stops to visit caves and floating villages.
Included, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch on the boat

Feast on fresh seafood cooked onboard, featuring shrimp, squid, and local vegetables, while admiring stunning scenery.
Included, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Hanoi

Head back to Hanoi, reflecting on the breathtaking natural beauty seen during the day.
Included, 3h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Dine on a variety of traditional Vietnamese street foods in a comfortable setting, known for its diverse menu.
VND150000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Culinary Workshop & Historic Sites

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Xoi Yen

Sample sticky rice with various toppings – a popular Vietnamese breakfast loved by locals.
VND30000, 1h0m

9:30am

Vietnamese Cooking Workshop

Join a hands-on class to learn to prepare traditional dishes like spring rolls and pho, hosted by local chefs.
USD45, 4h0m

2:00pm

Visit Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Explore the historical prison that once held Vietnamese revolutionaries and American POWs, an important historical site.
VND30000, 1h0m

3:30pm

Coffee Break at Cafe Giang

Try Hanoi's famous egg coffee, a creamy and rich blend that is a must-experience specialty.
VND40000, 1h0m

5:00pm

Walk along West Lake

Relax by Hanoi's largest lake and enjoy picturesque views, especially beautiful at sunset.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Home Vietnamese Restaurant

Enjoy elegantly served Vietnamese home-style dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
VND180000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Relaxation & Local Life

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 4, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Dinh

Experience a nostalgic local cafe famous for its traditional Vietnamese coffee and simple breakfast dishes.
VND40000, 1h0m

10:30am

Spa Day: Nails and Massage

Treat yourself to a luxurious spa day with Vietnamese herbal massage and expert nail care at a top-rated spa center.
USD70, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Bun Rieu Cua Hang Bac

Relish a hearty bowl of Bun Rieu, a delicious crab noodle soup, highly favored by locals.
VND60000, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover the rich diversity of Vietnam’s ethnic groups through extensive exhibits and outdoor displays.
VND40000, 2h0m

6:00pm

Evening Walk and Street Food

Explore lively street food stalls near Dong Xuan Market and try local favorites like grilled corn and banh mi.
VND50000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Final Culture & Departure

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hanoi Social Club

Enjoy a healthy and creative breakfast with vegetarian and Western-Vietnamese fusion options in a cozy atmosphere.
VND80000, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Complex

Pay respects at the mausoleum of Vietnam’s founding leader and explore the surrounding Presidential Palace gardens.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Shopping for Souvenirs at Hang Gai Street

Shop for silk products, souvenirs, and traditional crafts on this famous shopping street before departing.
Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cha Ca La Vong

Try another classic Hanoi dish, the original Cha Ca La Vong grilled fish, for a memorable final meal.
VND150000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Departure or onward travel

Wrap up your memorable trip and head to the airport or your next destination.
Varies, Varies
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