Hanoi 18-Day Trip Itinerary

Depart London Heathrow

Begin your journey to Vietnam with an international flight from London Heathrow to Hanoi.

Enjoy the in-flight services and prepare for your adventure.

Ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for check-in and security procedures.

Arrive in Hanoi

Land at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.

Clear immigration and customs, then transfer to your accommodation.

Pre-book an airport transfer for ease and comfort for a group of 8. Visa on arrival or pre-arranged e-visa may be required.

Hotel Check-in & Refresh

Check into your hotel, drop off your luggage, and take some time to refresh after your long journey.

Many hotels offer early check-in for a fee, or can store luggage until your room is ready.

Old Quarter Walk

Take a leisurely walk through the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, soaking in the atmosphere, observing daily life, and admiring the architecture.

Keep an eye out for interesting street art, traditional shops, and bustling local markets. Watch out for motorbikes!

Local Street Food Lunch

Indulge in your first taste of authentic Vietnamese street food.

Try classics like 'Pho' (noodle soup), 'Bun Cha' (grilled pork with noodles), or 'Banh Mi' (Vietnamese baguette sandwich).

Don't be afraid to try different vendors; look for places with many locals. Ask for recommendations!

Hoan Kiem Lake Visit

Stroll around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, a central point of Hanoi, and learn about the legend of the giant turtle. See Ngoc Son Temple on a small island.

The lake area is especially lively on weekends when traffic is often restricted.

Traditional Water Puppet Show

Experience a unique Vietnamese art form with a traditional water puppet show, depicting folklore and daily life in rural Vietnam.

Book tickets in advance, especially for a group of 8. Shows are very popular.

Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at a local restaurant, sampling more Vietnamese specialties.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Visit the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the revered leader of Vietnam.

Explore the complex including his stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). The mausoleum has strict visiting hours and is closed on Mondays and Fridays, and for an annual maintenance period (typically Sept-Nov). Good thing this is a Thursday!

Temple of Literature

Discover Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful temple dedicated to Confucius and scholars.

A peaceful and historically significant site. Look for the stelae of doctors mounted on stone turtles.

Authentic Pho Lunch

Savor a traditional bowl of Pho, Vietnam's national dish, at a highly recommended local eatery.

Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum

Explore a rich collection of Vietnamese art, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.

A fascinating insight into Vietnamese culture and history through its artistic expressions.

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Embark on an evening street food tour with a local guide, trying various delicacies like Bún đậu mắm tôm, egg coffee, and fresh spring rolls.

This is a fantastic way to discover hidden gems and local favorites. Come hungry!

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Visit the infamous 'Hanoi Hilton' prison, a historical site detailing Vietnam's struggle for independence and the experiences of POWs.

A poignant and thought-provoking visit, offering a stark look at a difficult period in history.

Nguyen Art Gallery

Explore contemporary Vietnamese art at the Nguyen Art Gallery, showcasing local talent.

A great place to appreciate modern Vietnamese artistic expression and perhaps find a unique souvenir.

Local Vietnamese Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant specializing in traditional Vietnamese dishes outside of street food.

Hanoi Flag Tower

Visit the Hanoi Flag Tower, a historic landmark and symbol of the city, part of the Vietnam Military History Museum complex.

Offers a good vantage point and insight into military history.

Shopping & Relax

Enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping in the Old Quarter, or relax at a local cafe with a famous Vietnamese egg coffee.

Many cafes offer great views for people-watching. Haggle respectfully in shops.

Dinner in Hanoi

Dine at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps trying a different cuisine or revisiting a favorite Vietnamese dish.

Chùa Quán Sứ Pagoda

Visit Chùa Quán Sứ, one of Hanoi's most important and active Buddhist pagodas, offering a serene atmosphere.

Observe local worshippers and admire the traditional Buddhist architecture. Dress respectfully.

Pearls Lake Pagoda

Discover Pearls Lake Pagoda, another beautiful and tranquil place of worship in Hanoi.

Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and intricate designs.

Leisurely Lunch

Enjoy a relaxed lunch, perhaps trying a dish you haven't had yet or revisiting a favorite.

Free Time & Packing

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping, revisit a favorite spot, or return to the hotel to relax and pack for your departure to Sapa.

Consider leaving your main luggage at the Hanoi hotel if you are taking an overnight train to Sapa, and only bring a small backpack for your Sapa trip.

Farewell Hanoi Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Hanoi before heading to the train station for your overnight journey to Sapa.

Transfer to Train Station

Transfer from your hotel to Hanoi Railway Station to catch your overnight sleeper train to Lao Cai (Sapa).

Ensure you have your train tickets and are aware of the departure time. The actual train journey will be detailed in the next chunk.

Travel to Sapa

Board a comfortable sleeper bus for the scenic journey from Hanoi to Sapa.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you head into the mountains.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in Sapa town and drop off your luggage.

Local Lunch

Enjoy your first meal in Sapa.

Try local specialties like Thang Co (hotpot) or salmon hotpot.

Explore Sapa Town

Take a leisurely walk around Sapa town, visit the Stone Church, and soak in the atmosphere of this mountain town.

Dinner in Sapa

Dine at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling grilled meats or more Sapa specialties.

Fansipan Cable Car

Take the world's longest three-rope cable car system to the summit of Fansipan, the 'Roof of Indochina'.

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range and lush valleys.

Dress warmly as it can be significantly colder at the summit. There are also stairs to climb from the cable car station to the very peak.

Explore Fansipan Summit

Spend time at the summit, visiting pagodas, statues, and enjoying the incredible cloudscapes.

Lunch at Fansipan

Grab a quick bite at one of the restaurants or cafes available at the Fansipan cable car station or near the summit.

Relax & Free Time

Return to Sapa town and enjoy some free time to relax, browse local shops, or enjoy a coffee with mountain views.

Evening Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with panoramic views of the Sapa valley.

Cat Cat Village Trek

Embark on a guided trek to Cat Cat Village, a traditional village of the H'mong ethnic minority.

Walk through terraced rice fields, visit local homes, and learn about their customs and crafts.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Consider hiring a local guide for a more insightful experience.

Lunch in Cat Cat

Enjoy a simple but delicious lunch at a local eatery within or near Cat Cat Village.

Return to Sapa & Relax

Return to Sapa town.

You might opt for a traditional herbal foot bath or massage to soothe tired muscles after your trek.

Dinner & Evening

Enjoy a hearty dinner.

Perhaps visit a local bar for a drink or simply relax at your hotel.

Sapa Market Visit

Explore the vibrant Sapa market, where ethnic minorities from surrounding villages come to trade goods.

Observe local life, sample fresh produce, and find unique handicrafts.

This is a great place to buy souvenirs, but be prepared to bargain politely.

Ham Rong Mountain

Ascend Ham Rong Mountain for a bird's-eye view of Sapa town, Cat Cat village, and the stunning terraced fields.

Explore the orchid gardens and rock formations.

Lunch in Sapa

Enjoy lunch in town, perhaps trying a different local dish or revisiting a favorite.

Afternoon Coffee/Tea

Spend a relaxed afternoon at one of Sapa's charming cafes, enjoying the views and reflecting on your mountain adventures.

Farewell Sapa Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Sapa, savoring the last tastes of the local cuisine.

Check-out & Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and complete check-out procedures.

Return to Hanoi

Board a comfortable sleeper bus for your journey back to Hanoi.

This will take approximately 6 hours.

Transfer to Hanoi Airport

Take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer from the bus station to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).

Flight to Hue

Board your domestic flight from Hanoi to Hue (Phu Bai International Airport - HUI).

Domestic flights are efficient for covering long distances within Vietnam.

Arrive in Hue & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), transfer to your accommodation in Hue and check-in.

Arrive & Check-in

Arrive in Hue after your journey from Sapa/Hanoi.

Check into your hotel and take some time to settle in and freshen up.

Upon arrival, consider a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to your hotel. Look for a reputable taxi company like Mai Linh or Vinasun.

Leisurely City Stroll

Take a relaxed walk around the hotel's vicinity, getting a feel for the charming city of Hue.

You might explore some local streets or find a nice spot for a refreshing drink.

Dinner & Perfume River

Enjoy your first dinner in Hue, sampling some of the city's renowned imperial cuisine.

Afterward, take an evening stroll along the illuminated Perfume River.

Hue is famous for its delicate and flavorful cuisine. Try Bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup) or Nem lụi (grilled pork skewers).

Explore Imperial City

Immerse yourselves in the grandeur of the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore the Forbidden Purple City, royal palaces, temples, and gardens.

Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved. Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for deeper insights (optional).

Lunch Near Citadel

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant just outside the Imperial City walls.

Many good eateries offer local specialties in this area.

Visit Royal Garden House

Explore a traditional garden house, an iconic architectural style of Hue.

Many are privately owned and offer a glimpse into local heritage and serene beauty.

Some garden houses require a small entrance fee or prior arrangement.

Dinner & Relaxation

Have dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Afterward, enjoy some free time or perhaps a relaxing foot massage.

Perfume River Cruise

Embark on a scenic boat trip along the Perfume River on a traditional dragon boat.

Enjoy the tranquil views and fresh air as you head towards Thien Mu Pagoda.

Confirm the duration and stops with the boat operator. Bargaining for private boat prices is common.

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Explore the iconic seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue's most historic and beautiful religious sites, offering panoramic views of the Perfume River.

Respectful attire (shoulders and knees covered) is recommended when visiting religious sites.

Lunch near Tombs

Have lunch at a local restaurant conveniently located near the royal tombs area.

Explore Royal Tombs

Visit two of Hue's magnificent Imperial Tombs, such as the Tomb of Minh Mang and the Tomb of Khai Dinh, known for their distinct architectural styles and serene landscapes.

You can take a taxi or hire a private car for the afternoon to visit the tombs, as they are spread out. Entrance fees are per tomb.

Dinner & Cultural Show

Enjoy an evening featuring traditional Hue imperial dinner and a performance of traditional Vietnamese music and dance.

Book this in advance, especially for a group of 8. Many restaurants offer this experience.

Dong Ba Market Visit

Explore Dong Ba Market, Hue's largest and oldest market.

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant local life, browse fresh produce, spices, local crafts, and street food stalls.

A great place for souvenirs and to observe daily life. Practice your bargaining skills!

Hue Street Food Tour

Embark on a guided street food tour to discover the authentic flavors of Hue.

Sample various local delicacies and learn about the city's culinary heritage.

Many tours focus on hidden gems and provide insights into ingredients and preparation.

Relaxation / Free Time

Enjoy some free time in the afternoon.

You could relax at the hotel, visit a local coffee shop, or explore an area you found interesting earlier.

Fine Dining Hue Style

Indulge in a more upscale dining experience featuring refined Hue specialties.

This is a chance to enjoy the nuanced flavors in a beautiful setting.

Visit Citadel Museum

Spend your last morning in Hue visiting the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities, located within the Imperial City, to see a collection of royal treasures and artifacts.

A good way to gain more context after visiting the Imperial City. Check opening times.

Last Minute Shopping

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts.

Hue is known for its conical hats, imperial-style clothing, and religious artifacts.

Farewell Lunch in Hue

Enjoy a final lunch in Hue, perhaps revisiting a favorite dish or trying something new before departing for Phu Quoc.

Prepare for Phu Quoc

Return to your hotel to pack, check out, and prepare for your onward journey to Phu Quoc Island.

Beach Relaxation & Swim

Start your day by soaking up the sun and swimming in the pristine waters of Bai Dai Beach, one of Phu Quoc's most beautiful stretches of sand.

Perfect for unwinding after your journey.

Towels and sun loungers are usually available at the resort. Enjoy the tranquility.

Phu Quoc Pearl Farm Visit

Discover the fascinating process of pearl cultivation at a local pearl farm.

Learn about different types of pearls and perhaps find a beautiful souvenir.

Entry is typically free. You can observe the process and browse the showroom.

Island Lunch

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant on Phu Quoc, sampling fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties.

Ask your hotel for recommendations or look for popular spots near the pearl farm.

OnBird Phu Quoc Snorkeling

Experience professional snorkeling with OnBird Phu Quoc, specializing in coral reefs.

Explore the vibrant underwater world with expert guides focusing on conservation.

High quality and safety standards. Book in advance. Remember your swimwear and sunscreen.

Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a fresh seafood dinner at a recommended local eatery, enjoying the island's culinary delights.

The night market offers a wide array of seafood stalls where you can pick your catch.

Morning Swim & Resort Facilities

Enjoy a final refreshing swim in the ocean or the hotel pool, or simply relax at the resort before preparing for departure.

Make the most of the amenities before checking out.

Phu Quoc Day Spa & Massage

Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or massage, perfect for unwinding after your island explorations. Options like a 'Honeymoon massage' are ideal for couples, or choose individual treatments.

Consider booking in advance, especially for a group of 8. Price varies depending on treatment.

Check-out & Farewell Lunch

Complete your check-out from the hotel and enjoy a final lunch in Phu Quoc before heading to the airport.

Ensure all your belongings are packed and ready for your flight to Hanoi.

Transfer to Phu Quoc Airport

Private transfer arranged from your hotel to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) for your flight to Hanoi.

Flight to Hanoi

Take an internal flight from Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi to position yourself for your international departure tomorrow morning.

Check into Hanoi Hotel

Upon arrival in Hanoi, transfer to a hotel chosen for its convenience to the airport, allowing for an easy early morning departure.

Farewell Dinner in Hanoi

Enjoy a final Vietnamese dinner in Hanoi, reflecting on your incredible journey before your early departure tomorrow.

Choose a restaurant near your hotel for convenience.

Early Check-out & Transfer

Check out from your hotel and transfer to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your flight back to London.

International Flight to London

Depart from Hanoi (HAN) for your international flight back to London Heathrow (LHR), with a stop in Abu Dhabi.

Ensure you arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight time.