Hanoi, Vietnam 10-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Noi Bai Airport

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), proceed through immigration, and collect your luggage.

This process typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours.

Check-in & Settle In

Check into your accommodation in the Old Quarter, leave your luggage, and refresh after your journey.

This hotel is highly-rated and centrally located.

The Old Quarter is a vibrant area, perfect for experiencing local life and close to many attractions.

Light Lunch: Banh Mi

Enjoy a light and delicious Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwich from a local street vendor.

Banh Mi 25 is a popular choice.

A quick and tasty introduction to Vietnamese street food.

Explore Old Quarter

Wander through Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter, soaking in the atmosphere, historic architecture, and bustling streets.

This area is known for its narrow streets, each historically dedicated to a specific trade.

Be mindful of scooters and traffic. Many shops sell handicrafts, silks, and souvenirs. Keep an eye out for street performers.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the city center, and Ngoc Son Temple, situated on an island in the lake, accessible by a charming red bridge.

The lake is beautiful in the late afternoon. There is a small entrance fee for Ngoc Son Temple. Look out for the Turtle Tower in the center of the lake.

Thang Long Water Puppet Show

Experience a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a unique art form depicting folk tales and daily life.

Tickets should be booked in advance.

Shows are popular and often sell out. Aim for an early evening performance.

Dinner & Drinks on Beer Street

Enjoy dinner and soak in the lively atmosphere of Ta Hien Beer Street, famous for its 'Bia Hoi' (fresh beer) and street food vendors.

A great spot to experience Hanoi's nightlife. Many options for local dishes and cheap beer.

Ho Chi Minh Complex

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside view), One Pillar Pagoda, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn about Vietnam's revered leader.

The Mausoleum has strict dress codes (shoulders and knees covered). Check opening times as it closes certain days and times.

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Dine at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting.

Great for trying many different local specialties. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

Temple of Literature

Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.

A tranquil escape from the city bustle, rich in history.

Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum

Discover Vietnamese art through various periods at the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, showcasing traditional and contemporary works.

Offers a fascinating insight into Vietnam's cultural heritage. Alternatively, the Women's Museum is also a great choice.

Hanoi Backstreet Food Tour

Embark on an authentic street food experience, exploring hidden alleys and trying local delicacies like Pho, Nem Ran (spring rolls), and Banh Xeo (savoury pancakes) with an expert local guide.

A fantastic way to taste the real Hanoi and learn about its culinary culture. Come hungry!

Visit Train Street

Experience the unique Train Street, where a train passes just inches from residential homes.

While official access can be restricted, parts are usually accessible for photos from cafes.

Be aware of official warnings and safety. Some cafes along the tracks offer views. Check locally for current access rules.

Coffee Hopping Experience

Enjoy Vietnamese coffee culture with a session of coffee hopping.

Try the famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang or a traditional drip coffee at a local cafe.

Vietnamese coffee is strong and delicious, often served with condensed milk. Egg coffee is a must-try specialty.

Explore West Lake & Lunch

Head to the West Lake (Ho Tay), Hanoi's largest freshwater lake.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a lakeside restaurant with scenic views.

The West Lake area offers a different, more relaxed vibe compared to the Old Quarter, with many upscale cafes and restaurants.

Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda

Discover Tran Quoc Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist temple located on a small island near the southeastern shore of West Lake, one of the oldest pagodas in Hanoi.

Beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings, especially nice for photos during sunset if time permits.

Early Dinner & Sapa Preparation

Enjoy a final dinner in Hanoi before preparing for your early morning transfer to Sapa.

Pack essential items for cooler mountain weather.

Ensure you have layers of clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and any necessary medications for Sapa's cooler climate.

Transfer to Sapa

Begin your journey from Hanoi to Sapa via a comfortable sleeper bus or limousine van.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you head north.

Arrive Sapa & Lunch

Upon arrival in Sapa, check into your hotel and enjoy a local lunch in town, sampling some of the regional specialties.

Sapa cuisine often features fresh vegetables, local pork, and warming hot pots.

Explore Sapa Town

Take a leisurely walk around Sapa town, visit the stone Sapa Church, and browse the vibrant local market where ethnic minority groups sell their handicrafts and produce.

Sapa can be quite chilly in February, so dress warmly. The market is a great place to observe local life and find unique souvenirs.

Dinner with Mountain Views

Enjoy a cozy dinner at a restaurant with panoramic views of Sapa's mountains and valleys, reflecting on the day's journey.

Many restaurants offer balconies or outdoor seating with heaters for a comfortable experience.

Guided Trek: Lao Chai & Ta Van

Embark on a full-day guided trek through the stunning terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van. Immerse yourself in the local culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Wear sturdy trekking shoes. The paths can be muddy, especially if it has rained recently. Hiring a local Hmong guide is highly recommended for cultural insights.

Lunch in Local Home

Enjoy a simple yet authentic lunch prepared by a local family in one of the villages, a wonderful cultural experience.

This is often included in guided trekking tours and offers a unique insight into local life.

Hot Shower & Massage

After your trek, return to Sapa town for a relaxing hot shower and consider a traditional Vietnamese massage to soothe tired muscles.

Many spas in Sapa offer affordable and therapeutic massages.

Cozy Dinner in Sapa

Enjoy a warm and hearty dinner in Sapa, perhaps trying a hot pot or other local comfort food perfect for the cool mountain evenings.

Many restaurants feature fireplaces or cozy settings, ideal for the chilly weather.

Fansipan Cable Car

Take the scenic cable car ride to the peak of Fansipan, known as the 'Roof of Indochina'.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range and visit the spiritual complex at the summit.

Dress warmly as temperatures at the summit can be significantly colder. Book your cable car tickets in advance.

Lunch in Sapa Town

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant in Sapa town before your journey back to Hanoi.

Travel from Sapa to Hanoi

Embark on a comfortable sleeper bus or limousine van journey back to Hanoi.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend from the mountains.

Check-in to Hanoi Accommodation

Upon arrival in Hanoi, check into your chosen accommodation in or near the Old Quarter.

Late Dinner in Old Quarter

Grab a relaxed late dinner at a local eatery in the Old Quarter.

Relaxed Morning

Enjoy a leisurely morning, sleep in, and have a relaxed breakfast after your journey from Sapa.

Explore Dong Xuan Market

Wander through Hanoi's largest indoor market, offering a vast array of goods from fresh produce to clothes and souvenirs. A great place to experience local life.

Haggle for prices! Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Street Food Lunch

Grab a casual lunch at one of the many street food stalls or small restaurants in the Old Quarter.

Visit Hanoi Train Street

Experience the unique narrow residential street where an active train track runs mere inches from houses.

A fascinating glimpse into local life.

Access to some sections may be restricted for safety. Check train schedules to witness a passing train (with caution).

Relaxing Vietnamese Massage

Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or traditional Vietnamese massage to unwind.

Dinner & Cruise Packing

Enjoy dinner at your leisure and then prepare your bag for the Ha Long Bay cruise tomorrow.

Cruise Pickup from Hotel

Your cruise company will pick you up from your Hanoi hotel for the transfer to Ha Long Bay.

Transfer to Ha Long Bay

Enjoy a comfortable bus transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, usually to Tuan Chau Harbor.

There will typically be a short rest stop along the way.

Board Cruise & Lunch

Arrive at the harbor, complete check-in procedures, board your luxury cruise, and enjoy a delicious welcome lunch as you begin sailing through the karst landscape.

Kayaking & Cave Exploration

Participate in activities like kayaking through hidden lagoons or visiting a stunning cave such as Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, revealing magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.

Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen/hat. Follow your guide's instructions during kayaking.

Sunset on Deck & Happy Hour

Relax on the sundeck and witness a spectacular sunset over Ha Long Bay, often accompanied by happy hour promotions on drinks.

Gourmet Dinner Onboard

Savor a gourmet dinner featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties, prepared by the cruise chef.

Evening Leisure & Activities

Enjoy evening entertainment like squid fishing, a cooking class, or simply relax with a drink.

Sunrise & Tai Chi

Wake up early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the bay.

Join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck (optional) to start your day.

Light Activities/Breakfast

Enjoy a light breakfast and possibly visit another small island or explore a grotto by rowboat.

Brunch Onboard & Check-out

Savor a final brunch onboard as the cruise makes its way back to the harbor.

Complete check-out formalities.

Ensure all personal belongings are collected.

Return Transfer to Hanoi

Take the shuttle bus back from Tuan Chau Harbor to your hotel in Hanoi.

Vietnamese Egg Coffee Break

Enjoy a classic Vietnamese egg coffee at a popular cafe in the Old Quarter, a must-try local specialty.

Farewell Dinner in Hanoi

Enjoy a special farewell dinner to celebrate your trip, perhaps at a restaurant offering traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a lovely setting.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final Vietnamese breakfast at your hotel.

Hotel Check-out

Complete your check-out process from the hotel.

Transfer to Noi Bai Airport (HAN)

Take a taxi or Grab car to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure.

Depart Vietnam

Board your flight from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) back to Singapore, concluding your memorable Vietnam adventure.