3-Day / 2-Night Ha Noi – Ha Long Bay Tour

Tour Highlights

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🏙️ Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter & Cultural Landmarks
Stroll through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and admire French colonial architecture like the Opera House and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

🎭 Experience Traditional Vietnamese Culture
Enjoy optional activities like a water puppet show or local food tasting in Hanoi’s lively downtown.

🚢 Overnight Cruise in Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Spend a night on a luxury cruise surrounded by limestone karsts and calm green waters.

🌄 Visit Stunning Natural Attractions
Explore Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, swim or hike at Titop Island, and kayak through hidden lagoons and floating villages.

🍽️ Delicious Local Cuisine
Savor authentic Vietnamese dishes from Hanoi street eats to fine dining and fresh seafood on board the cruise.

🛏️ Premium Accommodations
Stay in handpicked 4- or 5-star hotels in Hanoi and enjoy top-tier overnight cruises with private cabins and balcony views.

💬 English-speaking Guides & Seamless Transfers
Relax with well-organized logistics, private transportation, and local guides who bring the experience to life.

Recommended Tour Itinerary

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Below is the detailed itinerary for the 3-day, 2-night free & easy Hanoi – Ha Long tour, offering a cultural and historical exploration of Hanoi, a chance to admire the stunning World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, and a unique overnight cruise experience on the bay.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – City Highlights Tour

Morning

• Pick-up at Noi Bai International Airport or hotel (if already in Hanoi)
• Transfer to hotel for check-in and freshening up
• Recommended Hotels in Hanoi:
  • 4-Star: La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa, Hanoi Pearl Hotel
  • 5-Star: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Capella Hanoi

Afternoon

• Guided walking tour of the Old Quarter
• Visit key landmarks:
  • Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
  • St. Joseph’s Cathedral
  • Hanoi Opera House (photo stop)

Evening

• Enjoy traditional water puppet show or live Vietnamese music performance
• Dinner at a local Vietnamese fine-dining restaurant (e.g., Home Hanoi, Madam Hien)
• Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi

Day 2: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise (Overnight on Boat)

06:30 – 07:00

• Hotel pick-up and transfer to Ha Long Bay by highway (~2.5 hours)

10:30 – 11:30

• Arrive at Ha Long Bay
• Welcome drinks and check-in on cruise ship

Recommended Overnight Cruises:

• 4-Star: Peony Cruise, Glory Legend Cruise
• 5-Star: Orchid Cruise, Heritage Line – Ginger Cruise

Afternoon Activities

• Buffet lunch on board while cruising past limestone islands
• Visit a cave (Sung Sot Cave or Thien Canh Son)
• Kayaking or bamboo boat ride around floating villages
• Swimming or sunbathing at Titop Island (depending on weather)

Evening

• Sunset party on deck with cocktails and fruits
• Onboard cooking demonstration (Vietnamese spring rolls)
• Seafood dinner served on board
• Optional: Squid fishing, spa services, or stargazing
• Overnight in private cabin on the cruise

Day 3: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi – Departure

06:30 – 07:00

• Tai Chi session on sundeck (optional)
• Light breakfast (pastries, tea, coffee)

08:00 – 09:00

• Explore a hidden lagoon by boat or kayak (depends on cruise)

09:30 – 10:30

• Brunch served on board as the boat returns to port

11:00 – 11:30

• Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi

15:00 – 16:00

• Arrival in Hanoi
• Drop-off at hotel or airport for departure

HANOI CAPITAL – THINGS TO DO AND SEE

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city where history, culture, and daily life intersect in fascinating ways. With its centuries-old temples, lively street food scene, and the buzz of motorbikes weaving through narrow alleys, Hanoi offers an experience that’s both intense and rewarding.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or coming back for more, here are the best things to do and see in Hanoi – places that showcase the city’s character and rhythm.

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1. Explore the Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the beating heart of the city. It’s a maze of narrow streets, each traditionally named after the product once sold there – from silver and paper to herbs and bamboo. While those trades have faded in some areas, the charm remains.

Wandering around here is a must. You'll see colonial-era buildings with moss-covered walls, shopfronts barely wide enough for one person, and locals sitting on plastic stools sipping tea or slurping noodles. Stop by a street vendor for a quick snack or pop into a tiny bar tucked away behind a café. The chaos is part of the magic.

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2. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

In the center of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake offers a peaceful contrast to the busy streets. Locals come here early in the morning to jog, do tai chi, or simply enjoy the calm. The lake is especially beautiful at sunrise or after dark, when the lights from surrounding buildings reflect on the water.

On the northern end of the lake sits Ngoc Son Temple, accessible via a red wooden bridge. The temple is small but full of symbolism and spiritual meaning. It’s a good spot to slow down and appreciate traditional Vietnamese architecture.

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3. Try Hanoi’s Street Food

Hanoi is one of the best food cities in Southeast Asia. It’s not about fancy restaurants – the real stars are on the sidewalks.

Start with pho – Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup. While pho is popular nationwide, Hanoi-style pho is lighter and more delicate. Next, try bun cha – grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce. President Obama famously ate it at a small shop on Le Van Huu Street.

Don’t skip banh mi, xoi (sticky rice), or nem ran (fried spring rolls). If you're feeling adventurous, try egg coffee – a creamy, sweet drink made with egg yolks, sugar, and strong Vietnamese coffee. Café Giang, the birthplace of egg coffee, is a solid choice.

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4. Pay Respect at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

One of the most important landmarks in Hanoi, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is where the embalmed body of the founding father of modern Vietnam lies in state. It’s a solemn and symbolic place, and visitors are expected to dress respectfully and stay silent.

After viewing the mausoleum, explore the surrounding area. The Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, and the One Pillar Pagoda are all nearby, offering insight into Vietnam’s political history and architectural styles.

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5. Take a Walk Through the Temple of Literature

Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature was Vietnam’s first university and remains one of Hanoi’s most beautiful historic sites. The complex features peaceful courtyards, ancient stone stelae, and well-preserved pavilions that honor Confucian scholars.

It’s not only a tourist site but also a place of inspiration for students and graduates. During exam season, you’ll often see students visiting to pray for success.

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6. Visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum or Museum of Ethnology

For deeper cultural context, head to one (or both) of these excellent museums.

The Vietnamese Women’s Museum celebrates the role of women in Vietnam’s society and history – from mothers and farmers to soldiers and leaders. It's modern, informative, and eye-opening.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, on the other hand, offers a look into the lives and customs of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. The outdoor exhibits with full-scale houses are particularly impressive.

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7. Watch a Traditional Water Puppet Show

Water puppetry is a unique Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century. Using water as the stage, puppeteers behind a screen manipulate lacquered wooden puppets to perform folk stories, often accompanied by live traditional music.

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, near Hoan Kiem Lake, is the most popular venue. While the show is in Vietnamese, the performances are easy to follow and offer a fun cultural experience.

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8. Hang Out in Tay Ho (West Lake)

West Lake is Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake and a quieter area to escape the intensity of downtown. The neighborhoods around it are home to a mix of locals, expats, and artists. It’s a great place to rent a bike, enjoy lakeside cafés, or visit historical sites like Tran Quoc Pagoda – the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi.

Sunset over the lake is stunning, and the area comes alive in the evening with casual bars and cozy restaurants.

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9. Get Lost in Local Markets

Markets are a window into local life, and Hanoi has no shortage of them. Dong Xuan Market is the largest, offering everything from dried seafood and fabric to souvenirs and electronics. It can be hectic, but it's worth checking out.

For a more laid-back vibe, try Hom Market for fresh produce or explore neighborhood wet markets early in the morning. It’s raw, real, and very Hanoi.

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10. Take a Day Trip Outside the City

If you have extra time, consider a short trip outside Hanoi. Popular options include:

• Bat Trang Pottery Village – known for centuries-old ceramics and hands-on workshops.

• Perfume Pagoda – a scenic complex of temples set in limestone mountains.

• Duong Lam Ancient Village – for a glimpse into rural life with ancient houses and temples.

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11. Ha Noi Cathedral

Ha Noi Cathedral was built on the site of the former Bao Thien Tower, which was famous in the ancient capital of Thang Long under the Ly Dynasty (the 11th and 12th centuries). Ha Noi Cathedral, also known as Saint Joseph’s Cathedral, was inaugurated on Christmas Day 1886, two years after its construction. Its design is similar to the architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

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12. Hanoi Opera House

One of the most elegant buildings in all of Hanoi is undoubtedly the Hanoi Opera House in the heart of the French Quarter. Built in 1911, is exudes Parisian charm from its ivory-toned columns, ornate balustrades and Gothic domes. Inside, performances range from opera, to dance, drama and international artists from every corner of the world. Large events are well publicized so keep an eye out and you might get lucky and get to see one of the world’s leading performers in one of the most beautiful buildings in Asia

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13. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an intriguing relic of Vietnam’s history and, signifying its historical and cultural importance, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Standing 40 metres high, the central flag tower is the most recognizable feature of the Imperial Citadel and is often used as a symbol of Hanoi. This was the centre of ancient Hanoi and served as the political centre for eight centuries. Located in Ba Dinh, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is close to many other tourist attractions.

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Hanoi isn’t a city that tries to impress you with skyscrapers or flashy attractions. Instead, it invites you to look closer – to observe how history lives in its streets, how people adapt tradition to modern life, and how chaos and calm somehow coexist.

It’s not always easy to describe Hanoi. It’s loud but poetic, old but constantly changing. But once you’ve walked its streets, tasted its food, and watched the city breathe at night – you’ll understand why so many travelers fall in love with it.

HALONG BAY - THINGS TO DO AND SEE

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains a crown jewel of Vietnam's tourism. With its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone karsts topped by rainforests, it's a spectacle that captivates every visitor. This year, Halong Bay continues to refine its offerings, blending natural beauty with enhanced tourism experiences. This year, sustainable tourism initiatives are more prominent, emphasizing eco-friendly practices and community engagement. New regulations aim to minimize environmental impact, ensuring the bay's pristine condition for future generations. Additionally, advancements in cruise technology and service standards have elevated the luxury experience, making it even more appealing for discerning travelers.

1. Cruising Amongst the Limestone Karsts

Embarking on a cruise is the quintessential way to experience Halong Bay's breathtaking scenery. Sailing through the bay allows travelers to witness the majestic limestone formations up close and enjoy the serene environment. Both day cruises and overnight options are available, with the latter offering a more immersive experience.

2. Exploring Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

Discovered in 1901, Sung Sot Cave is one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights, creating a surreal underground landscape.

3. Kayaking and Swimming

Halong Bay's calm waters are ideal for kayaking. Paddling through the bay offers a unique perspective of the towering karsts and hidden caves. Many cruises include stops at secluded beaches where travelers can swim in the bay's clear waters.

4. Visiting Ti Top Island

Ti Top Island is famous for its panoramic views of Halong Bay. After a short but steep hike, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding seascape. The island also features a sandy beach, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

5. Discovering Floating Fishing Villages

Halong Bay is home to several floating fishing villages, such as Vung Vieng and Cua Van. These communities offer insights into the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen. Tours often include visits to these villages, where travelers can interact with residents and learn about their daily routines.

6. Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay

For those seeking a less crowded alternative to Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay offers equally stunning landscapes with fewer tourists. This area provides a more tranquil experience, ideal for kayaking, swimming, and exploring untouched caves.

7. Cooking Classes and Tai Chi Sessions

Many luxury cruises offer onboard activities such as Vietnamese cooking classes and early morning Tai Chi sessions on the sundeck. These activities provide cultural enrichment and a chance to engage with fellow travelers.

8. Squid Fishing

Trying your hand at night squid fishing from the cruise ship, a popular activity that provides a unique cultural experience.

9. Scenic Cruising

Simply relaxing on the sundeck of your cruise ship and enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay.

10. Photography

Halong bay is a photographers dream. The landscapes are stunning, and the lighting during sunrise and sunset is amazing.

11. Spa and Wellness

Many luxury cruises have now included high end spa facilities.

12. Helicopter Tours

For those who want to see Halong bay from a truly unique perspective, Helicopter tours are available.

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Tips for Foreign Tourists

• Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visa for Vietnam. Check the latest visa regulations before your trip.
• Currency: The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry some cash.
• Weather: Halong Bay experiences a tropical climate. Pack light, breathable clothing, and rain gear, especially during the rainy season (May to September).
• Health: Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and health precautions.
• Safety: Halong Bay is generally safe for tourists, but exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings.
• Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can enhance your experience.
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local traditions.

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Halong Bay promises an unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty with enhanced tourism offerings. By planning your trip carefully and choosing a luxury cruise that suits your preferences, you can create lasting memories of this enchanting destination.