Pocket-Friendly Beach and City Adventure from Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 1: Hanoi City Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Enjoy a traditional bowl of pho at this popular spot known for its authentic flavors, perfect for a budget-friendly start.
VND40000, 1h

9:30am

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Stroll around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the historic Ngoc Son Temple on an island in the lake, offering scenic views and cultural insight.
VND30000, 1h30m

11:30am

Old Quarter Walking Tour

Explore Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter with its maze of streets, shops, and street food stalls, giving a snapshot of local life.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Taste bun cha, a famous Hanoi dish of grilled pork with noodles and herbs, in a budget-friendly establishment beloved by locals.
VND60000, 1h

3:00pm

Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam’s first national university, a peaceful and historic site featuring traditional Vietnamese architecture and gardens.
VND30000, 1h

5:00pm

Evening Water Puppet Show

Enjoy the traditional Vietnamese water puppet theater, a unique cultural experience held at the Thang Long Theater.
VND100000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Dine on diverse traditional Vietnamese dishes in a lively market-style setting with affordable options.
VND80000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Ha Long Bay Beach and Water Sports

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on May 15, 2025

6:30am

Travel to Ha Long Bay

Take an early bus or shuttle from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, approximately 3.5 to 4 hours journey.
VND200000, 4h

11:00am

Check in at Bai Chay Beach

Relax and freshen up at accommodation near Bai Chay Beach, a public beach with free access and good facilities.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at a local seafood restaurant

Savor fresh and affordable seafood dishes at a local eatery near the beach.
VND90000, 1h

1:30pm

Beach Sports and Swimming

Enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, and kayaking at Bai Chay Beach, with equipment rentals available at low cost.
VND50000, 3h

4:30pm

Visit Sun Wheel and Quang Ninh Museum

Explore nearby attractions including the giant Ferris wheel for panoramic views and the modern museum showcasing regional history.
VND150000, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at a beachfront cafe

Relax and enjoy casual dining with views of the bay and a variety of affordable local dishes.
VND80000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Cat Ba Island Adventure

Cat Ba Island, Vietnam on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Ferry to Cat Ba Island

Take a morning ferry from Ha Long Bay to Cat Ba Island, known for its beaches and national park.
VND60000, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at local eatery

Try traditional Vietnamese coffee and banh mi at a small local cafe before heading out.
VND30000, 30m

9:00am

Cat Ba National Park Hiking

Spend the morning exploring trails through the national park with views of the island’s lush mountains and wildlife.
VND40000, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at a beachside restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with fresh seafood and local dishes right on the beach.
VND90000, 1h

2:00pm

Relax and swim at Cat Co Beach

Spend the afternoon sunbathing, swimming, or renting paddleboards at Cat Co Beach, a favorite on the island.
Free or rental fees apply, 3h

5:30pm

Return Ferry to Ha Long

Catch the ferry back to Ha Long city to prepare for return to Hanoi the next day.
VND60000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner in Ha Long City

Have dinner at a local restaurant offering budget-friendly Vietnamese cuisine with a cozy atmosphere.
VND70000, 1h
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Day 4: Return to Hanoi and Departure

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Travel back to Hanoi

Take a morning shuttle or bus from Ha Long Bay back to Hanoi, arriving around midday.
VND200000, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long

Try the famous Hanoi specialty Cha Ca, a flavorful fish dish, ideal for a last authentic meal in the city.
VND90000, 1h

2:00pm

Last Minute Shopping or Coffee

Spend some relaxed time in a cafe or shop for souvenirs in the Old Quarter before departure.
Varies, 2h
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