Hanoi & Ninh Binh, Vietnam 4-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Hanoi & Check-in

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

Transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city for check-in and to refresh after your journey.

Pre-arrange airport transfer for a smooth arrival experience.

Lunch: Authentic Phở

Savor your first taste of Vietnam with a traditional bowl of Phở, a quintessential Vietnamese noodle soup.

Ask your hotel for a recommendation for a reputable local Pho spot.

Old Quarter Walking Tour

Immerse yourselves in the bustling, historic streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Wander through narrow lanes, observing daily life, ancient architecture, and vibrant street vendors.

Wear comfortable shoes. Be mindful of motorbikes. Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, a central point of Hanoi.

Visit the Ngoc Son Temple, accessible via a picturesque red bridge.

The temple closes around 5-6 PM. The lake is beautiful for an evening walk.

Dinner: Bún chả

Experience another Hanoi culinary staple, Bún chả, grilled pork with vermicelli noodles and a flavorful dipping sauce.

Thang Long Water Puppet Show

Enjoy a unique and traditional Vietnamese art form with a water puppet show, depicting ancient folktales and rural life.

Book tickets in advance, especially for evening shows. English translation available via headphones.

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Visit the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton', to learn about Vietnam's tumultuous past and the experiences of prisoners during the French colonial era and the Vietnam War.

A poignant and historically significant site. Allow ample time for reflection.

Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum

Explore Vietnam's rich artistic heritage at this museum, showcasing art from ancient times to modern contemporary works.

Lunch in Ba Dinh District

Enjoy a delicious local lunch near the museum area, offering various Vietnamese culinary options.

Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful complex dedicated to Confucius and scholars.

Admire the traditional architecture and serene courtyards, including Khue Van Cac.

Khue Van Cac, the 'Constellation of Literature' pavilion, is an iconic symbol of Hanoi.

Chùa Quán Sứ (Quán Sứ Pagoda)

Visit one of Hanoi's most important and active Buddhist pagodas, known for its intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).

Romantic Dinner Date

Enjoy a romantic farewell dinner in Hanoi at a fine dining restaurant, savoring exquisite Vietnamese cuisine.

Consider restaurants like Cha Ca La Vong (for a specific dish) or a rooftop restaurant for views.

Travel to Ninh Binh

Embark on a scenic journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a province renowned for its breathtaking landscapes of limestone karsts and rice paddies.

A comfortable limousine bus or private car provides a relaxing transfer.

Check-in to Lalita Boutique Hotel

Arrive in Ninh Binh and check into your charming hotel, nestled amidst the stunning natural scenery.

The hotel is strategically located near major attractions.

Lunch: Local Delicacies

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local Ninh Binh specialties, such as goat meat or 'cơm cháy' (burnt rice crackers).

Trang An Grottoes Boat Tour

Embark on a serene boat trip through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Trang An.

Marvel at the dramatic limestone karsts, discover ancient temples, and glide through hidden caves.

This is a must-do experience. The boatmen row with their feet! Bring a hat and sunscreen. Routes vary, all are beautiful.

Mua Caves Viewpoint

Conquer the 500 steps to the top of Mua Caves for breathtaking panoramic views of the Ngo Dong River, Tam Coc, and the surrounding rice paddies.

The climb is steep but worth it for the incredible views. Best visited in the late afternoon for sunset.

Romantic Dinner in Ninh Binh

Enjoy a quiet and romantic dinner at your hotel or a charming local restaurant, reflecting on the day's natural beauty.

Tam Cốc-Bich Dộng Boat Ride

Take another iconic sampan boat ride, this time through the scenic 'Three Caves' of Tam Coc.

Witness local farmers tending their rice paddies and pass through magnificent caves.

The landscape here is often compared to Ha Long Bay on land. The best time to visit for lush green rice paddies is usually May-June or September-October. January is still beautiful, though the paddies might be less vibrant green.

Cycling through Rice Paddies

Rent bicycles and enjoy a leisurely ride through the serene countryside around Tam Coc, passing by traditional villages and picturesque rice fields.

Most hotels and guesthouses offer bike rentals. A great way to enjoy the tranquility.

Farewell Lunch in Ninh Binh

Savor a final Vietnamese meal in Ninh Binh, perhaps trying dishes you haven't yet experienced.

Return to Hanoi

Begin your journey back to Hanoi after an incredible time exploring the natural wonders of Ninh Binh.

Depart from Hanoi

Transfer to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your evening departure from Vietnam, carrying beautiful honeymoon memories.