Hanoi and Halong Bay discovery

THROUGH HANOI AND HALONG DISCOVERY TOUR, YOU WILL EXPLORE

Day 1: Hanoi – Arrival

Upon arrival to Hanoi, your guide and driver will be waiting for you and provide transport to Hanoi for check in the hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is free at leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Notes: The itinerary may be a flexible basis on your arrival flight schedule; some sites can be visited today (with a small surcharge).

Day 2: Hanoi city tour (B, L)

The tour begins at the Temple of Literature, built in 1076 under Ly Dynasty to worship Confucius Scholar then converted into the first university of Vietnam for nearly 700 years. The Temple of Literature was the place to educate the royal sons and elites. Visiting this to gain a fascinating glimpse of this incredible 700 year university reflecting Vietnam’s past glory.

Next, explore UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thang Long Imperial Citadel. Dating back to the 7th century, the historical site reflects the fusion between Chinese and Champa influences.

Continue to the Ho Chi Minh complex which include Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (view from outside), Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts in a tranquil garden. The house was the final house where he lived from 1958 to 1969 till he passed away. Followed is the Hanoi’s iconic landmark One Pillar Pagoda, founded in 1049 under Ly Dynasty, the wooden structure looks like a big lotus flower erected from the pond.

Before lunch break, stroll along lakeshore between the picturesque West Lake and Truc Bach lake to visit sixth century Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda which has been nominated by some of the reputable travel magazines as one of the world’s sixteen most beautiful pagodas, just a short while away is Quan Thanh Temple dedicated to the Taoism saint.

Discover Hanoi’s Old Quarter on a walking tour through shop jammed Hang Be Street Market and around northern side of HoanKiem Lake, a bustling area with many small businesses. Wrap up the day with a Water Puppet show, a traditional North Vietnamese performance art.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh (B, L)

Depart for 2.5-hour drive through Vietnam’s northern countryside to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam. Visit two temples dedicated to Dinh and Le emperors during the 10th and 11th century.

Then transfer to Tam Coc town for a Vietnamese lunch, after lunch, visit Trang An UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized in 2014. Take a relaxing rowing boat ride on a peaceful river passing through a series of caves. As the boat gently slides along the river winding around the towering mountains which rise a new name “Halong on Land”.

After a short drive, climb up a towering limestone to Bich Dong Pagoda, built in 1428 and comprising a structure of three pagodas; Ha (low), Trung (middle), and Thuong (summit) Pagodas. Transfer to your hotel for relax at end of the afternoon.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 4: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Overnight cruise (B, L, D)

After breakfast at the hotel, you leave Ninh Binh for the 4-hour drive to Halong bay, the Vietnam’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage site where there are more than 1600 limestone islands and islets with different shapes striking out from the sea. The bay name ‘Ha Long” literally means descending dragons.

Arrive at the Halong bay, complete the check-in procedures then board the overnight boat for the unforgettable cruise on Halong bay. After a welcome onboard, enjoy your lunch while your boat is cruising towards the heritage bay. In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing activities or simply spend some time relaxing on board sundeck. Enjoy dinner when the evening sets.

Overnight on board.

Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Departure (B, L)

Early risers can join Tai Chi class on the sun deck. Enjoy the tranquil morning in the middle of the Bay as the sun rises on over the mountains of Halong. A light breakfast is served then followed with a brunch. At the end of the morning, the boat will return to the dock and transfer back to Hanoi airport for the flight to your next destination.

You might be interested in our Absolute Vietnam tour, otherwise look for other interesting options in our Vietnam classic & culture travel style!