Best 3-Day Vietnam Itinerary: Explore Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Hoi An

Day 1: Historic Hanoi Experience

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 31, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with a bowl of authentic Hanoi Pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup known for its rich broth and fresh herbs.
VND60000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Explore the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of Hanoi and visit the peaceful Ngoc Son Temple located on a small lake island.
VND0, 1h

10:45am

Old Quarter Walking Tour

Wander through the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, famous for its narrow alleys, colonial architecture, and street markets.
VND0, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Enjoy Bun Cha, a Hanoi specialty of grilled pork served with noodles and fresh herbs, at this famous eatery known for its authentic flavors.
VND80000, 1h

2:30pm

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover the diverse cultures of Vietnam's ethnic groups through engaging exhibits and traditional artifacts at this well-curated museum.
VND40000, 2h

5:00pm

Evening at Hanoi Opera House and Water Puppet Show

Experience a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show near the Hanoi Opera House, a unique art form reflecting Vietnamese culture and folklore.
VND100000, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Dine on Cha Ca, a famous Hanoi dish of turmeric fish sautéed with dill, served with noodles and peanuts in a lively local atmosphere.
VND150000, 1.5h
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Day 2: Scenic Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam on June 1, 2025

7:00am

Departure to Halong Bay

Travel by road from Hanoi to Halong Bay, approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour scenic drive showcasing northern Vietnam’s countryside.
VND200000, 4h

11:30am

Board Halong Bay Cruise

Embark on a traditional wooden junk boat cruise to explore the majestic limestone karsts and emerald waters of UNESCO-listed Halong Bay.
USD100, 5h

12:00pm

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes freshly prepared on board while cruising through spectacular limestone formations.
Included in cruise, 1h

2:00pm

Kayaking and Swimming

Optional kayaking or swimming in the calm bays near caves and secluded beaches to experience Halong Bay up close.
Included in cruise, 1.5h

4:30pm

Return to Hanoi

Disembark the cruise and head back to Hanoi by road, arriving in the evening for rest or casual strolls nearby your hotel.
Included in cruise, 4h

8:30pm

Light Dinner at Bun Rieu Cua Trang An

Try Bun Rieu, a delicious crab-based noodle soup often enjoyed for late dinners in Hanoi’s old town area.
VND70000, 1h
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Day 3: Cultural Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on June 2, 2025

6:00am

Flight to Da Nang and Transfer to Hoi An

Early morning flight from Hanoi to Da Nang (approx 1.5h), then a quick 30min drive to the charming town of Hoi An.
INR3500 (flight), VND300000 (transfer), 3h

9:30am

Breakfast at Cargo Club Hoi An

Enjoy French-Vietnamese fusion breakfast featuring fresh pastries and strong Vietnamese coffee with a view of the riverside.
VND120000, 1h

10:30am

Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour

Explore the UNESCO-listed old town with its lantern-lit streets, historic temples, Chinese assembly halls, and vibrant markets.
VND120000 (entrance ticket), 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Morning Glory

Delight in authentic Central Vietnamese cuisine featuring signature dishes like Cao Lau noodles and white rose dumplings.
VND150000, 1h

2:45pm

Visit An Bang Beach

Relax at An Bang Beach, known for its clean sands and tranquil sea — perfect for sunbathing or a swim.
VND0, 2h

5:00pm

Lantern Making Workshop

Participate in a traditional lantern making workshop to craft your own Hoi An lantern as a memorable souvenir.
VND200000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Miss Ly Cafe

Enjoy a cozy dinner offering classic Vietnamese home-style dishes, conveniently located in the old town.
VND130000, 1h

8:30pm

Evening Stroll and Lantern Viewing

End the day with a peaceful stroll along the Thu Bon River illuminated by numerous colorful lanterns.
VND0, 1h
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