Hanoi, Vietnam 21-Day Trip Itinerary

Noi Bai Airport Transfer

Enjoy a polite and safe transfer from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter with a friendly driver.

Book your transfer in advance for a smooth arrival experience.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in the lively Old Quarter.

Many hotels offer early check-in subject to availability, but standard check-in is usually 2 PM.

Old Quarter Walk

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, soaking in the atmosphere, observing local life, and discovering hidden shops.

Be mindful of motorbikes and scooters. It's a great area for photography and people-watching.

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Embark on a luxury small-group walking tour to discover Hanoi's famous street food at hidden local spots, including a visit to the iconic Train Street.

Come hungry! You'll try a variety of local delicacies. Product Code: 469660P3.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Start your day with a peaceful walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a central point of Hanoi, and visit Ngoc Son Temple, accessible via the iconic Huc Bridge.

Learn about the legend of the giant turtle and the magic sword. Entrance fee to Ngoc Son Temple is minimal.

Temple of Literature

Explore Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful complex of temples, courtyards, and pavilions dedicated to Confucius.

A tranquil escape from the city bustle. Often visited by students for good luck during exams.

Local Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery near the Temple of Literature.

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Visit the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, also known as 'The Hanoi Hilton,' to learn about its history during French colonial rule and the Vietnam War.

A poignant historical site, offering a sobering glimpse into Vietnam's past.

Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum

Immerse yourself in Vietnamese art history, from ancient sculptures to modern paintings, housed in a beautiful colonial building.

A great way to understand the cultural evolution of Vietnam through its art.

Dinner & Free Evening

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice in the Old Quarter or explore the bustling streets at night.

Hanoi Coffee Class

Learn about and taste 5 famous Vietnamese coffee drinks in a coffee shop with a long history.

You'll get to see, touch, and smell popular coffee beans.

Discover the unique nuances of Vietnamese coffee culture, including the famous egg coffee. Product Code: 393985P1.

Local Lunch

Savor another authentic Vietnamese meal in a cozy local restaurant.

Afternoon Relaxation or Shopping

Spend your afternoon relaxing at a cafe, exploring souvenir shops, or visiting a market.

Shop Craft Link (51 Phố Văn Miếu) is a good option for ethical souvenirs.

Thang Long Water Puppet Show

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

Book tickets in advance, especially for evening shows. The theater is near Hoan Kiem Lake.

Dinner & Night Market

Enjoy dinner and explore the Hanoi Weekend Night Market (if Thursday - Sunday) or find a lively bar in the Old Quarter.

The night market is vibrant with street food, clothes, and souvenirs.

Luxury Ninh Binh Full Day Tour

Embark on a full-day luxury tour to Ninh Binh, visiting Trang An grottoes (UNESCO site) with a scenic boat trip and exploring Hoa Lu ancient capital.

This small group tour includes high-quality transfer and a professional guide.

Known as 'Halong Bay on land,' Ninh Binh offers stunning karst landscapes and historical sites. Product Code: 252399P16.

Dinner in Hanoi

Enjoy dinner back in Hanoi after a full day of sightseeing in Ninh Binh.

Explore Bat Trang Ceramic Village by Motorbike

Take a unique vintage Minsk Motorcycle tour to the 1000-year-old Bat Trang Ceramic Village.

Drive along the dyke roads, experience local life, and learn about traditional ceramic craftsmanship.

A fascinating cultural experience to see artisans at work and perhaps try making your own pottery. Product Code: 216020P3.

Leisure Afternoon in Hanoi

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon.

You might visit a local market, revisit a favorite cafe, or prepare for your next segment of the trip.

Consider getting a Vietnamese massage or enjoying a final bowl of pho.

Farewell Dinner in Hanoi

Have a special dinner to conclude your time in Hanoi, perhaps trying a different local dish or returning to a beloved spot.

Transfer to Ha Long Bay

Board a shuttle bus from Hanoi to Ha Long City.

The scenic drive takes you through the Red River Delta, offering glimpses of rural Vietnamese life.

Embark on Ha Long Cruise

Arrive at Tuan Chau or Hon Gai harbor, check-in for your chosen overnight cruise.

Enjoy a welcome drink and safety briefing.

It's recommended to book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season.

Lunch with Bay Views

Savor a delicious Vietnamese lunch on board as the cruise begins to navigate through the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay.

Explore a Cave

Visit one of Ha Long Bay's magnificent caves, such as Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) or Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave), marveling at the stalagmites and stalactites.

Kayaking & Swimming

Enjoy kayaking through tranquil lagoons or swimming in the emerald waters of the bay.

Many cruises provide kayaks.

Sunset & Dinner

Watch the sunset over the bay, followed by a sumptuous dinner on the cruise, often featuring fresh seafood.

Evening Onboard Activities

Participate in evening activities like squid fishing, board games, or simply relax on the sundeck under the stars.

Sunrise Tai Chi

Start your day with a calming Tai Chi session on the sundeck, enjoying the serene morning views of the bay.

Breakfast/Brunch on Cruise

Enjoy breakfast or a light brunch while cruising back towards the harbor, passing by more stunning islets.

Disembark & Transfer to Cat Ba

Disembark the cruise.

Take a speed boat or ferry directly from the Ha Long Bay area to Cat Ba Island.

Check-in Cat Ba Hotel

Arrive at Cat Ba Town and check into your accommodation.

Take some time to freshen up.

Lunch in Cat Ba Town

Enjoy a local lunch in Cat Ba Town.

Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties.

Relax at Cat Co Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at one of Cat Ba's beautiful beaches, such as Cat Co 1, 2, or 3, easily accessible from town.

Sunset at Cannon Fort

Head up to Cannon Fort for panoramic views of Cat Ba Town, Lan Ha Bay, and the surrounding islands, especially beautiful at sunset.

Dinner in Cat Ba Town

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Cat Ba Town, trying more fresh seafood.

Breakfast in Cat Ba Town

Grab some local breakfast or coffee at a cafe in Cat Ba Town.

Hike in Cat Ba National Park

Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike to Ngu Lam Peak for stunning panoramic views of the entire national park and Lan Ha Bay.

Lunch Near National Park

Have lunch at a local restaurant near the National Park entrance or pack a picnic.

Visit Hospital Cave

Explore Hospital Cave, a fascinating historical site used as a secret, bomb-proof hospital during the Vietnam War.

It's built inside a large cave.

Explore Cat Ba Town

Return to Cat Ba Town.

Spend some time exploring the local market, shops, or enjoy a drink at a cafe.

Dinner in Cat Ba

Enjoy dinner at a different restaurant in Cat Ba Town, perhaps trying a different local dish.

Breakfast & Prepare for Trip

Have breakfast and get ready for a full day boat trip around Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay, known for its pristine waters and smaller islets.

Lan Ha Bay Boat Tour

Join a boat tour to explore Lan Ha Bay, including stops for kayaking, swimming in secluded coves, and visiting a floating fishing village.

Many tour operators in Cat Ba Town offer full-day trips. Book a day in advance.

Lunch on Boat

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on board the boat, often with seafood.

Optional Rock Climbing/Deep Water Soloing

For adventurers, consider trying rock climbing or deep water soloing (climbing without ropes over water) in the scenic karsts of Lan Ha Bay.

Requires booking with a specialized tour operator.

Return to Cat Ba Town

Head back to Cat Ba Town after a day of bay exploration.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner on Cat Ba Island, perhaps trying a more upscale seafood restaurant or a favorite local spot.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and check out from your accommodation in Cat Ba.

Cat Ba Market Visit

Explore the bustling local market in Cat Ba Town, observing daily life and perhaps picking up some snacks for your journey.

Farewell Coffee

Enjoy a final Vietnamese coffee overlooking the harbor before heading to your next destination.

Travel to Hue/Da Nang

Begin your journey south.

This typically involves taking a ferry/speed boat from Cat Ba to Hai Phong or Ha Long, then a bus/taxi to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) or Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) for a flight to Hue or Da Nang.

Arrive in Hue

Arrive at Hue railway station or bus terminal after an overnight journey from the northern regions.

Take a taxi or Grab to your accommodation to check in and drop off your bags.

Check-in & Freshen Up

Check into your hostel or guesthouse and freshen up after your travel.

Take some time to relax before beginning your exploration of Hue.

Perfume River Walk & Dragon Boat

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beautiful Perfume River (Sông Hương).

Consider taking a traditional dragon boat ride to see the city from a different perspective.

Dragon boat rides typically last 1-2 hours and can be shared or private.

Lunch & Dong Ba Market

Have lunch at a local eatery near Dong Ba Market, then explore this bustling market.

It's a great place to find local produce, street food, souvenirs, and traditional Vietnamese clothing.

Explore an Ancient Garden House

Visit one of Hue's traditional garden houses, like An Hien Garden House, which offers a glimpse into aristocratic life and traditional Vietnamese architecture amidst serene gardens.

Hue Imperial Cuisine Dinner

Enjoy a dinner featuring Hue's distinctive imperial cuisine, known for its refined presentation and delicate flavors.

Look for restaurants offering 'Com Cung Dinh' (royal rice).

Hue Imperial Citadel

Spend the morning exploring the vast complex of the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the gates, palaces, and temples of the former Nguyen Dynasty.

Forbidden Purple City

Inside the Imperial Citadel, explore the Forbidden Purple City, once reserved for the emperor and his closest family. Discover the ruins and restored sections.

Lunch: Bun Bo Hue

Savor a traditional 'Bun Bo Hue' (spicy beef noodle soup), a signature dish of Hue, at a local restaurant near the Citadel.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's iconic seven-story pagoda, situated on the banks of the Perfume River.

Take a short taxi ride or a scenic bike ride along the river.

Tomb of Khai Dinh

Explore the opulent Tomb of Khai Dinh, a striking blend of Vietnamese and European architecture.

Known for its elaborate mosaics and intricate details.

Evening Free Time

Enjoy a relaxing evening in Hue.

Explore the walking streets, try some more local delicacies, or visit a cafe for a Vietnamese coffee.

Tomb of Minh Mang

Visit the Tomb of Minh Mang, known for its harmonious blend of architecture and natural landscape.

A serene and picturesque site.

Travel to Da Nang via Hai Van Pass

Embark on a scenic journey from Hue to Da Nang.

The Hai Van Pass is a breathtaking coastal road. You can hire a private car with a driver, take a 'motorbike tour' with a local driver, or brave it yourself if you're an experienced rider. The train journey also offers stunning views.

Check-in to Da Nang Accommodation

Arrive in Da Nang, check into your hostel near My Khe Beach, and drop off your bags.

Relax at My Khe Beach

Head to My Khe Beach, one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches.

Relax on the sand, swim in the sea, or simply enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Dinner & Dragon Bridge View

Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant along the Han River.

Afterwards, walk to see the iconic Dragon Bridge, especially impressive at night when lit up. On weekend evenings (Sat/Sun at 9 PM), the dragon breathes fire and water.

Explore Marble Mountains

Visit the Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn), a cluster of five limestone and marble hills.

Explore the caves, tunnels, and pagodas, and enjoy panoramic views from the peaks.

Museum of Cham Sculpture & Lunch

Discover the Museum of Cham Sculpture, home to the world's largest collection of Cham artifacts.

Afterward, have lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Shopping at Han Market

Experience the bustling atmosphere of Han Market, a central market where you can find everything from local delicacies and fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.

Da Nang City Walk

Take a leisurely walk through the city center, discovering modern Da Nang's architecture, bridges, and vibrant streets.

Dinner & Rooftop Bar

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery.

Consider finding a rooftop bar for drinks and panoramic views of Da Nang's illuminated skyline and bridges.

Morning at the Beach

Enjoy a relaxed morning at My Khe Beach.

You can swim, sunbathe, read a book, or take a refreshing walk along the shore.

Brunch at a Local Cafe

Indulge in a late breakfast or brunch at one of Da Nang's many charming local cafes, perhaps trying Vietnamese coffee or a banh mi.

Optional Sightseeing/Shopping

Depending on your interests, you could revisit a favorite spot, explore other parts of Da Nang, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Relax & Prepare for Hoi An

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your accommodation or a quiet cafe.

Begin packing and preparing for your short journey to Hoi An Ancient Town tomorrow.

Farewell Dinner in Da Nang

Enjoy a final dinner in Da Nang, perhaps trying a different local dish or revisiting a favorite spot.

Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Hoi An and check into your accommodation.

Take some time to settle in.

Many guesthouses offer bike rentals for easy exploration.

Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Ancient Town.

Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and ancient houses.

You'll need a ticket to enter some of the historical sites, which can be purchased at various entry points.

Riverside Dinner & Lanterns

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, taking in the enchanting view of the lantern-lit Thu Bon River.

Consider taking a short boat ride on the river for a different perspective of the lanterns (optional).

Hoi An Cooking Class

Learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes, often including a market visit to pick fresh ingredients.

Many classes include pick-up from your accommodation and a boat trip to the cooking school.

Custom Tailor Visit

Explore Hoi An's famous tailor shops.

Get measured for custom-made clothing like suits, dresses, or shirts, with quick turnaround times.

Research tailors beforehand and compare prices/quality. Fittings usually take place the next day.

Banh Mi Dinner

Savor an authentic Vietnamese Banh Mi from a renowned local vendor, such as Banh Mi Phuong or Madame Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen.

Don't be deterred by queues; it's worth the wait for these iconic sandwiches.

Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village

Rent a bicycle and cycle to the picturesque Tra Que Vegetable Village.

Learn about organic farming methods and even try your hand at gardening.

The route is mostly flat and scenic, passing rice paddies and water buffalo. Many tours include a foot massage and lunch.

Relax at An Bang Beach

Head to An Bang Beach for some relaxation, swimming, or simply lounging by the sea.

Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

Easy to reach by bicycle or a short taxi ride from the Ancient Town. Many beachfront spots offer sun loungers for a small fee or if you buy drinks/food.

Hoi An Lantern Making Class

Participate in a workshop to learn how to make your own traditional Hoi An lantern, a beautiful souvenir.

Several workshops are available throughout the Ancient Town; look for those with good reviews.

Boat Trip to Cam Kim Island

Take a local ferry or small boat across the Thu Bon River to Cam Kim Island.

Explore traditional carpentry villages and rice paper making.

A quieter alternative to the bustling Ancient Town, offering a glimpse into local rural life. Bicycle rental on the island is recommended.

Coconut Forest Basket Boat Ride

Experience a unique basket boat ride through the Bay Mau coconut forest.

Enjoy traditional fishing techniques and sometimes lively boat spinning performances.

A fun and interactive experience, often including crab fishing.

Hoi An Street Food Tour

Embark on a self-guided or organized street food tour to sample Hoi An's culinary delights like Cao Lau, White Rose dumplings, and Mi Quang.

Many tours are available, or you can explore local stalls on your own for an authentic experience.

Morning Coffee & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy a leisurely Vietnamese coffee at a charming cafe.

Spend time browsing for last-minute souvenirs and gifts in the Old Town.

Look for local handicrafts, silks, and tailored items.

Relaxing Spa or Massage

Indulge in a traditional Vietnamese massage or spa treatment to relax and rejuvenate before your next journey.

Many spas offer great value for money. Book in advance for popular spots.

Farewell Dinner & Packing

Enjoy a final dinner in Hoi An, perhaps trying a dish you haven't yet.

Afterwards, return to your accommodation to pack and prepare for departure to Ho Chi Minh City tomorrow.

Reflect on your time in this charming ancient town.

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Embark on a guided tour to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Learn about the history and experience crawling through some of the reconstructed tunnels.

Tours often include hotel pickup/drop-off. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing. Book in advance. You will learn about the history of this underground system.

Local Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant after your return from the tunnels.

Try some Banh Mi or Pho, popular Vietnamese dishes.

Ho Chi Minh Square & Nguyen Hue Street

Stroll through the bustling Ho Chi Minh Square and the adjacent Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

Admire the City Hall, the Rex Hotel, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

A great spot for people-watching and enjoying the city's modern pulse.

Last-minute Souvenirs

Browse for souvenirs or unique gifts at a local market or shop.

Takashimaya is a modern department store if you prefer air-conditioned shopping. Ben Thanh Market offers a traditional Vietnamese market experience.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final Vietnamese dinner, perhaps trying a dish you haven't had yet, to conclude your backpacking adventure.

Many restaurants offer rooftop dining experiences with city views.