Itinerary in brief:
- 2 nights Hanoi
- 1 night Halong Bay
- 1 night Hanoi
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
Upon your arrival into Hanoi, you will be met by your private car, and taken to your hotel to check-in for your 2 night stay.
Your journey into Hanoi takes approximately 45 minutes, and once you arrive and settle into your hotel, the remainder of the day is free for you to explore the city, or just relax in a café with a delicious Vietnamese coffee!
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Today you will spend the day in the company of a knowledgeable guide, who will show you everything Hanoi has to offer.
After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you in your hotel lobby, before departing for the mausoleum of the historic figure and father of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. Then it’s on to a wooden house which was his temporary residence from 1954 – 1969. You will also see the One Pillar Pagoda, founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049. This structure has become an important symbol for the people of Hanoi.
Your next stop will be the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university; the gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past. Continue on to the splendid West Lake, and one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Hanoi, Tran Quoc, and the nearby Toaist temple of Quan Thanh which dates from the Ly Dynasty.
The afternoon brings you to the Hoa Lo Prison, and then onto your a walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, also known as the ‘36 streets’. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers. It's a great place to explore and be a part of the exciting and enthralling atmosphere.
Your city tour ends with a traditional and unique Water Puppet Show – a northern Vietnamese art form that depicts scenes from rural life, and national historic events – it really is a must-see while visiting Hanoi!
Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay
You’ll start your journey after breakfast at your hotel. Your driver will collect you from your hotel bright and early, and drive the three and a half hours to Halong Bay.
You will arrive by late morning, and will be welcomed onto your boat. As you cruise into the bay, a delicious lunch will be served, preparing you for a wonderful day on the water. You will cruise by rock formations with names like Dog, Sail, and Dinh Huong (incense pot).
Towards the end of the day, you will set anchor for the night, where you can relax and watch the sun set in this beautiful and majestic paradise, while enjoying another tasty meal on-board.
Day 4: Halong to Hanoi
Today you will weave your way back through the bay while enjoying a full breakfast. Once you return to the dock, your drive will greet you and transfer you back to your hotel in Hanoi.
The rest of the day is for you to enjoy in Hanoi, and it’s the perfect time to pick up those last minute gifts and souvenirs from this diverse, hectic, and fun city!
Day 5: Depart Hanoi
It is now time to continue on with your journey. After breakfast at your hotel, you will be taken to the airport by private transfer to meet your onward flight. If you are looking to extend your time in Vietnam, just ask one of our experienced travel consultants for advice, or help in planning you your perfect trip.
