Your Vietnam adventure begins in Hanoi, where you'll be greeted by a private driver at the airport, holding a sign with your name for easy identification. He'll guide you to your hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the city.

Hanoi Old Quarter Culture Exchange Center

This prime location allows you to explore the vibrant Old Quarter at your leisure, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of Hanoi. Whether you choose to stroll through the bustling streets or unwind at the hotel after your journey, your arrival marks the perfect start to an unforgettable experience. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

Hanoi Old Quarter Culture Exchange Center

8:00 - 8:30 AM: Begin your adventure with a warm welcome from our friendly guide as you’re picked up from your hotel. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Hanoi! Travelers who stay at outside Hanoi Old Town, we will pick you up at Hanoi Opera house No 1 Trang Tien street instead of your hotel.

Chua Tran Quoc

8:45 AM: Your first stop is the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda, nestled on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. As the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, dating back to the 6th century, this serene site offers stunning views and a glimpse into the city's spiritual heritage.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

9:30 AM: Next, explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex. Pay respects to the embalmed body of Vietnam’s beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh, and stroll through his lush garden.

One Pillar Pagoda

You’ll also visit the two stilt houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969, before marveling at the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, one of the most unique temples in the world. Note: Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) when visiting the mausoleum and temples. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays and for maintenance from June 15 to August 15. However, you can still take photos and explore the surrounding area.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

11:15 AM: Continue your journey at the Vietnam Ethnology Museum, where you’ll dive into the vibrant cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. (On Mondays, we’ll explore the Vietnam Women’s Museum instead.) 12:45 PM: Take a break to enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, featuring mouthwatering dishes that showcase the best of the country’s cuisine.

Vietnamese Women's Museum

On Mondays, we’ll explore the Vietnam Women’s Museum instead of Vietnam Ethnology Museum.

Temple of Literature & National University

2:00 - 2:15 PM: Next, we’ll visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, founded in the 11th century. This peaceful sanctuary honors the country’s rich educational history.

Hoa Lo Prison

3:15 PM: Step back in time at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, once used by French colonists and later by North Vietnam to hold U.S. prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Known to American POWs as the "Hanoi Hilton," this historical site offers a poignant glimpse into Vietnam's turbulent past.

Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam

4:15 - 4:30 PM: Your unforgettable day ends as we return to your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of Hanoi’s history, culture, and charm. Overnight in Hanoi.

Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam

7:25 - 8:00 AM: Start your day with a friendly pickup from your hotel, and enjoy a scenic drive from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Province. (Pickup time varies depending on your location in the Old Quarter or Opera House.)

Hanoi Opera House

For travelers staying outside the Hanoi Old Quarter area, we will pick you up at the Hanoi Opera House, No. 1 Trang Tien Street, Hanoi, instead of your hotel.

Ninh Binh Province

9:15 AM: Take a brief 15-20 minute rest to relax before continuing your journey.

Hoa Lu temples of the Dinh & Le Dynasties

10:15 AM: Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, where the country’s feudal history comes to life. Learn about the powerful Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties, and explore the temples dedicated to these iconic rulers. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely cycling tour around the village, offering a unique chance to see local life and stunning rural landscapes. 12:00 PM: Indulge in a delicious buffet lunch at the Ninh Binh Local Restaurant, a nice venue offering a variety of local specialties, including goat meat, spring rolls, fried rice, chicken, fresh vegetables, and a selection of vegetarian dishes.

Tam Coc

1:30 PM: After lunch, embark on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through Tam Coc. While the rice fields might not be as lush and vibrant outside the rice season ( from May to June), Tam Coc still offers breathtaking views with its tranquil waters and towering limestone peaks. The boat ride is a peaceful and scenic journey through caves and lush countryside, with a serene beauty that is just as captivating during the off-season. Notes : if you prefer to visit Trang An instead of Tam Coc , let us know to arrange trip. No extra fee for this change.

Mua Caves

3:30 PM: Return to your bus and head to Mua Cave (Dragon Peak). Climb nearly 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Tam Coc and its surrounding landscapes. Enjoy the beauty of the lotus paddy fields, especially in summer when they are in full bloom. Note: The climb to the top of Mua Cave can be a bit challenging due to the stairs. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, feel free to take your time or skip the climb. Your guide will ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day.

Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam

5:00 PM: After taking in the beauty of Mua Cave, hop back on the bus for the return journey to Hanoi. 7:00 PM: Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi, bringing an end to a memorable day of adventure and discovery in Ninh Binh. Overnight in Hanoi .

Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam

7h30 - 8h00 : Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter, and we’ll depart for Halong Bay via the Expressway.

Hanoi Opera House

For travelers staying outside the Hanoi Old Quarter area, we will pick you up at the Hanoi Opera House, No. 1 Trang Tien Street, Hanoi, instead of your hotel.

Hạ Long Bay

The scenic drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, and along the way, we’ll make a 20-minute stop at 10:30 AM for a short break to relax.

Tuan Chau Island

We will arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor around 12:00 - 12:30 PM. You’ll be warmly welcomed aboard the Halong Cruise.

Sung Sot Cave

As we cruise through Halong Bay’s stunning scenery, enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch while passing by small islands and rock formations with unique names, reflecting their appearance. At 2:00 PM, we will arrive at Surprising Cave (Sung Sot Cave), one of Halong Bay’s most famous attractions, where you’ll explore beautiful stalagmites and stalactites shaped like sea creatures.

Ti Top Island

Around 3:00 PM, we will visit Titop Island, known for its sandy beach and towering limestone peak. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters or trek to the top of Titop Peak to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Halong Bay.

Hang Luon Cave

At 4:00 PM, we will continue to Luon Cave, where you can board a kayak or bamboo boat to explore the serene lagoon surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery.

Tuan Chau Island

Around 5:00 - 5:30 PM, we will return to Tuan Chau Harbor. On the boat, enjoy a relaxing sunset party with tea, cakes, and music while taking in the stunning views of Halong Bay as we head back to port.

Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam

At 6:00 - 6:30 PM, we will board the bus and begin our journey back to Hanoi. A short break will be taken during the return journey. We will arrive back at your hotel in the Old Quarter of Hanoi around 9:00 - 9:30 PM, marking the end of your memorable Halong Bay Day Trip. Overnight in Hanoi.

Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam

On the final day of your Vietnam journey, begin with a healthy breakfast, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine. After checking out of the hotel, you’ll have some free time to visit the local markets, where you can pick up souvenirs to bring home for your loved ones. Whether it's handcrafted goods, local snacks, or traditional keepsakes, these markets offer a unique glimpse into the culture of Vietnam.

Once you're ready, your private driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home. Say Goodbye Hanoi, Viet Nam . Trip Ends !