How Many Days Should You Spend in Hanoi and Halong Bay?
You could easily spend a week in Hanoi and Halong bay without feeling bored. However, for most people with limited time, a few days would be good. For example, a 3 days in Hanoi and 2 days in Halong bay itinerary would cover most of both destinations.
Hanoi
Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, remains a captivating urban destination. While many travelers use Hanoi as a gateway to Halong Bay, the city itself warrants a few days of exploration and appreciation.
From the historic Old Quarter to the stylish French Quarter, a stroll through Hanoi's narrow streets reveals a city rich in history and culture. This is a multi-layered destination where traces of various periods of foreign occupation can be found around every corner.
We recommend spending a minimum of three days in Hanoi to fully immerse yourself in the city's charm, particularly if you are visiting for the first time.
3-Day Itinerary Hanoi
Hanoi city bus - an excellent way to explore for sightseeing!
Day 1:
- Your first day in Hanoi should include the morning and afternoon spent in the Old Quarter, relishing in a cup of cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee) and savoring a plate of Bún Chả while immersing yourself in local life. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Opera House and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, followed by a peaceful walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
- In the evening, transition to the more contemporary French Quarter, where you can visit a trendy cocktail bar or experience a traditional Water Puppet Show that showcases Vietnamese culture.
Day 2:
- Start your day with a classic Bánh Mì for breakfast in the Old Quarter before making your way to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum located in Ba Đình Square, right next to Lenin Park. When you’re ready for lunch, indulge in Bún bò Nam Bộ accompanied by refreshing coconut water, available at numerous eateries throughout the city.
- Dedicate the afternoon to appreciating the French-Colonial architecture in Ba Đình as you stroll to the renowned Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
- Conclude your day by West Lake, where you can enjoy dinner at a lovely restaurant overlooking the water, followed by drinks in a local Bia Hoi establishment.
Day 3:
- Begin your morning at the Lotte Tower for shopping and take in breathtaking panoramic views from the observation deck.
- Post-lunch, return to the Old Quarter and visit Train Street for a leisurely afternoon sipping local beers or trying the famous egg coffee.
- As evening falls, explore the expansive Hanoi Night Market and pick up souvenirs for friends and family back home.
Halong Bay
After spending three enriching days in Hanoi, you should consider heading to Halong Bay for at least two days of exploration.
2-Day Itinerary from Hanoi to Halong Bay
Islands on emerald waters - a hallmark of Halong Bay!
Day 1
- Depart early from Hanoi by shuttle bus to Halong Bay. You will arrive around lunchtime, where you can board an all-inclusive Halong Bay cruise.
- Enjoy lunch onboard before exploring one of the famous caves of Halong Bay by kayak. Afterwards, visit a local floating village to discover their culture and lifestyle, and relax on a beach on an uninhabited island before returning for dinner on the boat.
- After dinner, engage in squid fishing or simply relax before settling in for the night.
Day 2
- Start your day with an early morning Tai Chi session on deck, followed by breakfast. Then, take kayaks to explore another beautiful cave.
- Return to the boat for lunch as you cruise back to the port.
- Post-lunch, catch the shuttle bus back to Hanoi. Once you arrive, freshen up at your hotel before heading out for a nighttime exploration of the Old Quarter once again.
This article provides an outline for the number of days recommended for exploring Hanoi and Halong Bay, along with activities to experience during your stay. We hope you find this information helpful and wish you a wonderful holiday!
