3-Day Vietnam Itinerary: Discover Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Hoi An Highlights

Day 1: Hanoi Culture & Cuisine

Hanoi, Vietnam on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Start your day with a traditional bowl of Pho at this highly rated local spot famous for authentic northern-style beef noodle soup.
VND60000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk around this scenic lake located in the heart of Hanoi, and visit the charming Ngoc Son Temple on the lake’s island.
VND30000, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander the bustling narrow streets filled with shops, street vendors, and colonial architecture to experience local daily life and vibrant commerce.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try the iconic Hanoi dish Bun Cha, charcoal-grilled pork served with rice noodles and herbs, known globally from President Obama's visit here.
VND70000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Temple of Literature

A serene temple complex dating back to 1070, dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s first university - an important cultural and historical site.
VND30000, 1h0m

4:00pm

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Visit the resting place of Vietnam’s most revered leader, including the mausoleum, presidential palace grounds, and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Savor the famous dish Cha Ca, turmeric-marinated fish cooked tableside with dill and noodles, a Hanoi culinary specialty.
VND150000, 1h30m

8:45pm

Evening Water Puppet Show

Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance at Thang Long Theater that depicts local folklore and rural life.
VND100000, 1h0m
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Day 2: Ha Long Bay Adventure

Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh, Vietnam on July 2, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Ha Long Bay

Depart early from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by shuttle or private car, approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour journey for scenic coastal views.
VND500000, 4h0m

11:30am

Lunch aboard Ha Long Bay Cruise

Embark on a cruise ship to explore the stunning limestone karsts and islands of Ha Long Bay, enjoying fresh seafood for lunch on board.
USD50, 1h0m

12:30pm

Kayaking & Cave Exploration

Paddle through the emerald waters to explore hidden caves and floating villages surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Included in cruise, 2h0m

3:00pm

Relax on the Deck & Sunset Watching

Unwind on the boat’s deck, watch the sunset over the bay’s spectacular rock formations with a drink in hand.
Included, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner on board

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local specialties as you stay overnight on the boat under the stars.
Included, 1h30m
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Day 3: Hoi An Heritage

Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam on July 3, 2025

7:00am

Return to Hanoi and flight to Da Nang then transfer to Hoi An

Early transfer back to Hanoi, catch a mid-morning flight to Da Nang and short 45-minute drive to the ancient town of Hoi An.
Flight USD70, transfer VND300000, 5h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Morning Glory

Enjoy traditional Central Vietnamese cuisine in a delightful setting at this well-known Hoi An restaurant famous for its authentic dishes.
VND120000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town

Stroll through UNESCO-listed Hoi An with its charming lantern-lit streets, ancient wooden houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and vibrant markets.
Entry ticket VND120000, 2h0m

4:30pm

Visit An Bang Beach

Relax at this popular nearby beach with soft sands and calm waters, perfect for a refreshing swim and sunset views.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cargo Club

Dine beside the Thu Bon River enjoying delicious seafood, fusion dishes, and a good selection of desserts in a charming atmosphere.
VND150000, 1h30m
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