Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hanoi Tour: Explore Vietnam’s Top Highlights

Discover the Heart of Northern Vietnam in 3 Days 

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Northern Vietnam on this 3-day journey. Start with the bustling streets of Hanoi, where ancient traditions blend with modern life, before venturing to the emerald water of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From historic landmarks to breathtaking natural beauty, this journey promises an unforgettable experience filled with history, adventure, and relaxation. 

Day-by-day itinerary 

Hanoi | 1 night 

Day 1: Discover the soul of Vietnam’s capital 

Begin your adventure in the lively capital of Vietnam, where ancient temples coexist with contemporary cafes and bustling streets. Once you’ve settled into your hotel in Hanoi, feel free to discover the city at your own pace, tailoring your exploration to your personal interests. 

Hotel included: 1 night 

• Hotel: MK Premier Boutique Hotel (or alternatives of the same category, depending on availability)
• Check in: 14:00 | Check out: 12:00 

Suggested itinerary: (not included) 

Afternoon (13:00 - 17:00) 

• Start with a hop-on, hop-off city bus tour (like the Hanoi City Tour Bus) to get an overview of the city’s major attractions.
• Key stops may include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and Vietnam National Museum of History.
• Spend about 2–3 hours on the tour, getting off at your points of interest.
• After the bus tour, visit Hoan Kiem Lake. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake and visit Ngọc Sơn Temple located on an island in the lake.
• Walk through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter, known for its colonial architecture and bustling atmosphere.
• Stop by local shops for handicrafts and souvenirs and at a local café for famous Vietnamese egg coffee like Giang Cafe, Dinh Cafe. 

Evening (18:00 - 21:00) 

• Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant. Do not miss some signature Hanoi’s food like Pho, Bun Cha, Cha Ca. 
• Attend a performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre for a unique cultural experience.
• Explore the Hanoi Night Market for more street food, local crafts, and souvenirs.
• Dive into the nightlife of the Old Quarter, with its numerous bars and live music venues.
• Overnight stay in Hanoi. 

Authentic Water Puppet Show

Half-day tour from $90/person

Visit Co Loa, the ancient capital of the Au Lac Kingdom, with local English speaking guide. Then, enjoy a private water puppet show in Dao Thuc Village, a traditional Vietnamese art form performed on a pond using bamboo rods and lacquered puppets.

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This tour will let you leave the hustle and bustle of modern Hanoi and travel to the site of Co Loa ancient citadel which was established as the capital of Au Lac Kingdom since 3th century BCE. Visit the temple dedicated to King An Duong Vuong and Co Loa communal house which was built on the site of the ancient royal palace.

Water Puppetry is a traditional art form closely linked with the agricultural roots of the Vietnamese people on the Red River Delta. It is performed in a pool of water, with the water surface being the stage. The puppeteers stand behind a screen and manipulate the lacquered wooden puppets using long bamboo rods and strings hidden beneath the water surface.

You will have chance to watch a private authentic water puppet show performed by artisans of Dao Thuc Village at the village’s pond.

Hanoi to Halong & Lan Ha Bay | 1 night 

Day 2: Cruise through the beauty of Lan Ha Bay & Halong Bay 

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and get ready to check out and go to the next destination in your journey, Halong Bay, which is famous for its emerald waters and majestic limestone formations. 

Meals included: Breakfast (at Hanoi hotel); Lunch (on Halong cruise); Dinner (on Halong cruise) 

Cruise inlcuded: 2 Days 1 Night 

• The Au Co cruise: 2 Days 1 Night Signature Voyage across Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay
• Check in: 12:00 | Check out: 10:00 

Itinerary: 

Morning: (07:00 - 12:00) 

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and prepare for check-out.   
• Board your shuttle bus to Halong Bay. Arrive at Bhaya Cruise Center, located within the Tuan Chau International Marina after 3 hours. 

Afternoon: (12:00 - 15:00) 

• Board the cruise and enjoy lunch as the Au Co cruises towards Lan Ha Bay.
• Explore Cat Ba Island by bike, pedaling to Viet Hai Village, a hidden gem in Cat Ba National Park. With Bhaya Cruises' expert guides, discover their corporate social responsibility initiatives: "Viet Hai Community Farm" and "Save the Langurs." 
• At Bhaya Cafe, enjoy some time for refreshment and participate in some fun activities. Join a cocktail making session with local ingredients or try your hand at making "Bánh Cuốn" (steamed rolls) - a Vietnamese traditional delicacy.  

Evening: (17:00 - 21:00) 

• Back to the Au Co and enjoy Happy Hour at Lan Ha Bar during sunset.  
• Savor the delicious dinner in the restaurant.   
• Join the exciting Vietnamese rice wine tasting at the bar or try squid fishing with our staff on the main deck.  

Halong to Hanoi  

Day 3: Journey from Halong Bay to Hanoi 

After your morning with some relaxing and adventurous activities in Halong Bay, you will be picked up at Bhaya Cruise Center to return to Hanoi. 

Meals included: Breakfast (on Halong cruise) 

Itinerary:  

Morning: (07:00 - 12:00) 

• Rejuvenate the body and mind with a refreshing Tai Chi lesson during sunrise. 
• Enjoy breakfast as the boat cruises towards the center of Halong Bay. 
• Kayaking around Trinh Nu area - an exclusive combination of beach and cave surrounded by cascading mountains.   
• Back to the ship and prepare to check out. 
• Disembark at Bhaya Cruise Center and take some time to rest at Bhaya Cruise Center before returning to Hanoi. (approximately 2.5 hours by car) 

Reviews

Hotels, transfers & FAQ

Accommodation

Each hotel in Hanoi and Halong Bay cruise we select is carefully chosen to offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and authentic local character. While the specific accommodations may differ depending on your travel dates, we regularly use these hotels for the tour and are certain they'll meet your expectations.

MK Premier Boutique Hotel - Hanoi

Luxury Room - 4 star hotel - Located in the heart of Hanoi, combining modern elegance with traditional Vietnamese hospitality, provides easy access to city attractions.

The Au Co Cruise - Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay

Deluxe Cabin - The luxury steel-hulled Au Co with vintage style offers smooth sailing through Halong and Lan Ha bays, well-planned itineraries to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and discover cultural traditions.

FAQ

What is the best month to go to Hanoi and Halong Bay?

The best time to visit Hanoi and Halong Bay depends on your preferences, as each season has something unique to offer: 

• Spring (March to April): Mild weather with blooming flowers and calm waters, perfect for cruising, kayaking, and sightseeing.
• Summer (May to August): Warm temperatures, vibrant landscapes, and ideal for swimming and water activities, with fewer crowds and lower prices as it’s the off-peak period.
• Autumn (September to November): Cool weather, clear skies, and stunning views, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and photography.
• Winter (December to February): Cool but peaceful, with misty, serene landscapes in Halong Bay and cultural highlights like Tet in Hanoi. 

Each season offers its own charm, ensuring a memorable experience year-round. 

What is the best way to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

The best way to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay depends on your budget and time. A private car or taxi is convenient and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, costing $75 to $100. Shuttle buses or minibuses are affordable, with travel times of 3 to 3.5 hours, costing $10 to $25 per person. For a more luxurious option, seaplanes take 45 minutes and offer scenic views, but cost around $350 one way. Moreover, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. 

Is it worth spending a night in Halong Bay?

Spending a night in Halong Bay is definitely worth, as it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty and tranquility of the bay. An overnight stay offers the opportunity to explore the bay at different times of the day, witnessing stunning sunrises and sunsets that a day trip may not provide. You can enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, and visiting caves without the rush of a day tour. Additionally, many cruises offer onboard experiences like yoga session, cooking classes and cultural performances, enhancing your overall visit and creating lasting memories. 

How many days in Hanoi is enough?

One day and one night in Hanoi can be enough to experience the city’s highlights, such as the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and booking a Hop-On Hop-Off bus city tour could be good option, which is the flexible and budget-friendly tour to allow you explore the popular attractions of Vietnam’s capital city in 24 hour such as Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square –Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Flag Tower, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and One Pillar Pagoda.  

However, if you have more time, staying for two or three days lets you explore at a slower pace, visit museums, or enjoy day trips to destinations like Bat Trang pottery village, located outside the city center. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture and history. 

What is the best way to get around Hanoi?

The best way to get around Hanoi is by using a combination of options. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab, Xanh SM offer convenient transport, while local buses are budget-friendly. For a more immersive experience, consider cycling or walking through the Old Quarter to enjoy the vibrant street life. Renting a motorbike is another popular choice, but be cautious of traffic. Additionally, guided tours often provide transport, making it easy to explore various attractions without the hassle. 

What are the must-try dishes in Hanoi and Halong Bay?

When visiting Hanoi, do not miss some signature food such as Pho (noodle soup), Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and Vietnamese Coffee, especially Egg Coffee, a local specialty.   

Most cruises offer a range of Vietnamese and international dishes, with an emphasis on seafood. Dishes like grilled squid, sea bass, and fresh oysters are popular. 

Is the 3-day journey tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, this tour is ideal for families, as the activities in Hanoi and Halong Bay cater to all age groups. The Halong Bay cruise, for example, includes kid-friendly options like swimming, kayaking, and exploring caves. However, if you're traveling with young children, it’s wise to select a tour that offers a flexible itinerary and confirm that the accommodations or cruise provide family-friendly facilities. 

Is it possible to customize or change the itinerary?

The Halong Bay cruise follows a set schedule with activities like cruising through the bay, visiting caves, kayaking, and possibly swimming, depending on the weather and time of year. In contrast, Hanoi offers more flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace with various optional activities. While we offer a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time, you’re free to customize your experience to suit your preferences. 

Dates & prices