Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi (Dinner)
Welcome to Hanoi! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel located in the atmospheric Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake. After check-in and some time to refresh, embark on a captivating cyclo ride through the 36 bustling streets of the Old Quarter. Explore the maze of alleys, vibrant markets, and colonial architecture, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this historic city.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi Full-Day City Tour (Breakfast, Lunch)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Visit:
Morning:
- Walk to Hoan Kiem Lake: Stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, a central gathering spot for locals engaging in morning exercises and tai chi. Cross the iconic Red Sunbeam Bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple situated on a small island.
- Ba Dinh Square & Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum: Proceed to Ba Dinh Square to learn about President Ho Chi Minh's legacy. Visit the imposing Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (exterior view), the Presidential Palace, and his humble stilt house residence. Explore the One-Pillar Pagoda, an architectural marvel symbolizing purity.
- Temple of Literature: Visit Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius. Wander through peaceful gardens and pavilions, soaking in the historical significance and traditional Vietnamese architecture.
- Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
- Exploration: After lunch, choose to delve deeper into the Old Quarter's charm on your own or join your guide for a visit to the lively Dong Xuan Market, a bustling hub of local trade. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Halong Bay:
- 9:00 AM: Leave Hanoi and embark on a scenic drive to Halong Bay.
- 11:30 AM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Pier and board your premium cruise ship.
Cruise Highlights:
- Da Chong Islet: Sail past a lighthouse built over a century ago by the French.
- International Buffet Lunch: Enjoy a sumptuous lunch while cruising through the
majestic islets of the Con Vit area, known for its spectacular limestone formations. - Dark & Light Caves: Explore these enchanting caves by sampan boat, paddled by local rowers.
- Swimming at Tra Bau: Take a refreshing dip in the emerald waters amidst stunning karst landscapes.
- Sunset and Cooking Class: Return to the ship to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Participate in a traditional Vietnamese cooking class hosted by the onboard chef.
Evening:
- Relish a delightful dinner on board. Optionally, enjoy evening activities
or relax under the starlit sky. Overnight on the cruise.
Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi (Brunch)
Early Morning:
- Greet the day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the bay.
- Light Breakfast: Enjoy pastries, coffee, and tea.
- Scenic Cruising: Continue cruising through the stunning landscapes of Cat Ba Island, Thoi Quyt area, and Coc Ngoi Islet.
- Trung Trang Cave Excursion: Transfer by bus to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, nestled amid the lush greenery of Cat Ba National Park.
- Brunch Onboard: Return to the ship for a hearty brunch as you cruise back to
the pier. - 11:00 AM Disembarkation: Transfer back to Hanoi.
Afternoon
- City Glimpse: En route, enjoy a brief city tour with photo stops, including experiencing “Bia Hoi”, Hanoi's famous fresh beer, a quintessential local pastime. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 5: Hanoi Departure (Breakfast)
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Free time at your leisure to explore or shop for souvenirs until check-out at 12:00 PM.
- Transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight.
- End of Services.