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2024 HANOI & HALONG BAY TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG with a ₱7,700 DIY Itinerary, Things to Do, Tourist Spots and More!

THINGS TO DO IN HANOI TOURIST SPOTS TRAVEL GUIDE BLOGS ITINERARY AND HALONG BAY TOURS BUDGET

Planning a trip to Hanoi and Halong Bay, Vietnam for the first time? Let me help you plan your trip with this comprehensive HANOI TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG 2024 with Halong Bay tour featuring a DIY itinerary, list of top things to do in Hanoi, tourist spots and attractions, breakdown of expenses, and more!


Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is the jump-off point to the world-famous Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are so many interesting sites, tourist spots, attractions and things to do in Hanoi that any kind of traveler will surely enjoy. And I can say, as a first timer, I truly enjoyed our trip to Hanoi. This trip is so special and memorable for me, because it's my very first international travel. I had a lot of good memories about this trip and I would love to share it to all of you.

In this Hanoi & Halong Bay Travel Guide Blog, I will help you in planning your trip to Vietnam with useful information on visa requirements, how to get there, cheap hotels, awesome things to do, tourist spots and attractions, DIY itinerary, budget, tour package, and more. This is ideal for for-time travelers to Hanoi and Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Okay, let's get started.


2024 HANOI TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG FOR FIRST TIMERS WITH HALONG BAY TOUR



WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS HANOI & HALONG BAY TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG?


Vietnam Visa Requirements for Filipinos


Visa is not required for Filipinos to enter Vietnam. You just need to have a passport with 6 months validity left before expiration. Philippine passport holders are allowed to stay for up to 21 days Visa-free in Vietnam.

To avoid any inconvenience, be sure to have your return or onward tickets and proof of hotel booking/s ready if ever the immigration officer ask for it. Also, always check the date of your departure to make sure that it is within the number of days allowed for you to stay in Vietnam.

IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIP: Getting a travel insurance is highly-recommended when traveling abroad. Travel with confidence anytime, anywhere you go! Get a travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage for your peace of mind!

√ GET A TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH COVID-19 COVERAGE HERE!


Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

How to get to Hanoi from Manila Philippines?


Cebu Pacific flies 3 times weekly (Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturday) from Manila to Hanoi, leaving Manila at 10:20 PM and arriving in Hanoi at 12:30 AM. Return flights leave Hanoi for Manila at 1:00 AM every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, and arrive in Manila at 5:15 AM.

For bookings and inquiries, kindly visit www.cebupacificair.com, or call Cebu Pacific Air's reservation hotlines at (02) 7020–888 or (032) 230–8888. You may also visit their official Twitter (@CebuPacificAir) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/cebupacificair) for the latest news on their seat sale and promos.

How to Get from Hanoi Airport to City Center?


The airport is quite far to the city center. The best way to get to Hanoi City Center from Noi Bai (Hanoi) Airport is by getting a private car transfer. This is convenient and safe way to get to the city center, especially if you're arriving late at night in Hanoi or traveling with kids and senior citizens. Let me warn you that scams are rampant in Hanoi. By renting a private car via Klook, you will be assured that you can avoid being scammed at the airport.

If you're arriving by day time, your other options are: airport shuttle bus, public buses, and taxi. But I don't really recommend these because you might get scammed. Still, the best way to get to the city center from the airport is by taking a private car transfer which is quite affordable for PHP 540 pesos per car. The car could fit a maximum of 10 persons depending on the type you choose.

BOOK AND RESERVE HERE


VIETNAM HANOI BUDGET TRAVEL GUIDE

Going Around and Outside Hanoi


There are taxis, buses, rickshaw, and Grab car/taxi around the city. For ease and convenience, you may also consider the following transportation options:

HANOI PRIVATE CAR CHARTER - If you want to explore Hanoi on your own with the convenience of a private car, you may rent a private car for a day and explore the best spots of Hanoi. Plan your itinerary in advance and let your driver bring you to where you want to go. You can choose either full day or half day charters to suit your trip requirements.

BOOK AND RESERVE HERE


SHARED SHUTTLE BUS TRANSFERS BETWEEN HANOI AND SAPA - If you want to visit Sapa from Hanoi, you take a shared shuttle bus and discover Sapa on a long but comfortable trip to the mountainous landscapes of Sapa with a shared shuttle bus. This service includes complimentary Wi-Fi service onboard, light blankets, and a refreshing bottle of water. It also includes free hotel pick-up and drop-off if you're staying within Hanoi's Old Quarters area.

BOOK AND RESERVE HERE


PRIVATE CITY TRANSFERS IN HANOI AND SURROUNDING AREAS - Enjoy comfortable transfers between Hanoi and surrounding areas, including Ninh Binh, Hai Phong, Tam Coc, Ha Long Bay, and Sapa. You can choose a vehicle that's suitable for groups of 3, or a vehicle for larger groups of 5 and could fit your luggage.

BOOK AND RESERVE HERE


For other transportation options on how to get to Hanoi from anywhere in Vietnam, check out this link.

Internet Connection in Hanoi


You have two options. (1) buy a local sim or (2) rent a portable pocket WiFi. If you're traveling with a group, I recommend renting a portable pocket WiFi and share the connection to your travel buddies. You can save on travel expenses because you can also divide the cost with your group. For solo travelers, buying a local sim is your best option.

CLICK HERE TO RENT A PORTABLE WIFI


Where to Stay in Hanoi?


During our trip, we stayed in one hotel in Hanoi and one hotel in Halong Bay.

Hanoi Hotels Crowne Plaza Hotel West Hanoi

HOTELS IN HANOI, VIETNAM: Crowne Plaza West Hanoi


Address: 36 Le Duc Tho Street, My Dinh 2 Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

ROOM RATES:
  • Deluxe Twin Room - starts at ₱6,695.00 per night
  • Deluxe King Room - starts at ₱6,695.00 per night
  • Premier King - starts at ₱7,440.00 per night
  • Club Room - starts at ₱10,500.00 per night

MY REVIEW: I had an awesome and remarkable stay at Crowne Plaza West Hanoi. With its top-notch amenities, superb customer service, delectable food offerings and value-for-money-rates, Crowne Plaza West Hanoi is certainly one of the best hotels in Hanoi, Vietnam! I wouldn't think twice to book here next time I visit Hanoi. Highly recommended! Read full review here.

SEE ROOM RATES AND AVAILABILITY


Halong Plaza Hotel Vietnam

HOTELS IN HA LONG BAY: Halong Plaza Hotel


Address: No 8, Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, 200000

ROOM RATES:
  • Superior Ocean View - starts at ₱3,783.00 per night
  • Deluxe Sea View Room - starts at ₱5,159.00 per night
  • Junior Suite Sea Room - starts at ₱8,250.00 per night
  • Executive Suite Sea View Room - starts at ₱9,280.00 per night

MY REVIEW: We a sweet and short stay at Halong Plaza Hotel but I really enjoyed it. The rooms are very nice, the staff are genuinely accommodating and the breakfast buffet was great! I wouldn't think twice in staying at Halong Plaza Hotel if I visit Halong Bay again anytime soon. Read full review here.

SEE ROOM RATES AND AVAILABILITY


Top-Rated Hotels in Hanoi


For other top-rated hotels in Hanoi from cheap to luxury accommodations, I listed here some of the popular hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Hanoi according to guest reviews.

Hanoi Tomodachi House

Address: 5 Tong Duy Tan, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi city, Vietnam, 10000110604
Room Rates: Starts at 1,000 pesos
Book Here: See room rates and availability

Hanoi Street Hotel

Address: No 1 Hang Bong Alley, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi city, Vietnam, 110605
Room Rates: Starts at 1,400 pesos
Book Here: See room rates and availability

Hanoi Golden Hostel

Address: 51 Nguyen Sieu, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi city, Vietnam, 111502
Room Rates: Starts at 1,050 pesos
Book Here: See room rates and availability

Hanoi Majestic Hotel

Address: 210 Hang Bong Street, Hoan Kiem Distric,, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi city, Vietnam, 100000
Room Rates: Starts at 1,700 pesos
Book Here: See room rates and availability

1968 Homes Alex's Cozy Vintage City Centre Home

Address: Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam 100000
Room Rates: Starts at 5,075 pesos
Book Here: See room rates and availability

Eclipse Legend Hotel

Address: No.36 Hang Voi Street - Hoan Kiem District., Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam, 10000
Room Rates: Starts at 1,000 pesos
Book Here: See room rates and availability

Galliot Central Hotel

Address: 13, Au Trieu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam, 100000
Room Rates: Starts at 1,300 pesos
Book Here: See room rates and availability

CLICK HERE TO SEE OTHER HOTELS IN HANOI




Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam

Top Things To Do in Hanoi, Vietnam + Tourist Spots and Attractions


A city tour of Hanoi will give you a deeper insight into the unique culture and history of Vietnam. Do not miss the chance to explore and experience the culture, taste the food, and see Vietnam’s rich history, and fall in love with its natural attractions. In this Hanoi Travel Guide, I listed my "Top 10 Things To Do and Should not be Missed" when visiting Hanoi. Be sure to check them out!

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam

1. Visit Ho Chi Minh Complex


The Vietnamese people take pride on their very first President – Ho Chi Minh (or Uncle Ho), the National Liberation Hero. Dedicated to him, the Ho Chi Minh complex is one of the most popular destinations to tourists visiting Hanoi. Start your city tour with a visit to Ho Chi Minh Complex where you could find the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum which is an important place of pilgrimage for many Vietnamese., Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Residence, Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Museum and many others. The Ho Chi Minh complex is a huge construction of a complex to express the pride of Vietnamese people to its very first president. Considered as "the heart of Vietnamese people", this is also a great way to know more about the people and culture of Vietnam.

USEFUL INFO: Ho Chi Minh also known as "Uncle Ho" is Vietnam's National Liberation Hero who founded the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. His embalmed body lies in state at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum which is open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM except Mondays and Fridays.

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Ho Chi Minh Complex

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Ho Chi Minh Complex

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Ho Chi Minh Complex

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Ho Chi Minh Complex

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Ho Chi Minh Complex

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam

2. Pay a visit to the One Pillar Pagoda


This is a historic Buddhist temple in Hanoi located inside Ho Chi Minh complex. The One Pillar Pagoda was originally built by the Emperor Ly Thai Tong who ruled from 1028 to 1054. Built of wood in the middle of a lotus pond, the temple stands on a single stone pillar resembling a blossoming lotus flower, which a Buddhist symbol of purity. Along with Perfume Temple, it is considered as one of the Vietnam's two most iconic temples.

USEFUL INFO: The One Pillar Pagoda is located in Ong Ich Khiem St., Ngoc Ha, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi and it is open daily from 08:00 a.m to 05:00 p.m. Entrance is free.

TRAVEL TIP: If you want to also visit the Perfume Pagoda, you can book a day tour HERE.

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam One Pillar Pagoda

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam One Pillar Pagoda

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam One Pillar Pagoda

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam One Pillar Pagoda

3. Walk around the Temple of Literature


An awesome example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture, the Temple of Literature was built in 1070 at the time of Emperor Lý Thánh Tông. Considered as the oldest university in Vietnam, it is dedicated to Confucius, sages and scholars and is where you could witness the ancient historical-cultural heritage of Hanoian's spirit of study in the past. This is also a great place to interact with Vietnamese students visiting the temple.

USEFUL INFO: Entrance fee at the complex is about 20,000 VND ($ 1 USD). It is open from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM everyday except Mondays and national holidays.

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam Temple of Literature

4. Go on a Cyclo Tour


Riding a cyclo will give you an amazing insight of the daily lives of the Vietnames people as you explore the maze of labyrinth streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter. A great way to explore Hanoi's old quarter and to see the other attractions around the city, the perspective you'll get from a cyclo tour is worth the experience. This is definitely a must-try when visiting Hanoi.

USEFUL INFO: Cyclo tour costs around 100,000 VND ($ 5.00 USD) for one person for one hour of tour within Hanoi city center. Just be careful and avoid the scammers at all cost. Always ask first how much is the fare and where you will be going before riding the cyclo to avoid being scammed.

TRAVEL TIP: The best way to avoid the scammers is to book a Cycle Tour from a trusted local travel agency. Try the local delicacies and explore the historical parts of Hanoi by foot and by cyclo via Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour with Cyclo Ride.

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Cyclo Tour

5. Try Hanoi's Street Food


Sample on delicious local cuisines and delicacies just like the locals do - on the street. Choose from dozens of street hawkers selling a variety of street food and specialties infused with influences from French and Chinese cuisines. This experience is a great way to learn more about Hanoi’s unique food culture. Don't forget to try the Vietnamese Coffee and Bánh Mì!

JOIN HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR!


TRAVEL TIP: Prepare smaller bills and be sure to always ask for discount! Hahaha! For ease and convenience, you can also book packaged tours such as Old Quarter Food Tour, Hanoi Street Food Tour with Water Puppet Show, or join Cooking Class in Local Garden Villa with Market Tour or Hanoi Apron Up Cooking Class.

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Try Street Food

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Try Street Food

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Try Street Food

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Try Street Food

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Try Street Food

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Try Street Food

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam  Try Street Food

6. Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter


Hanoi's Old Quarter is a maze of streets dating back to the 13th century. Also known as Hoan Kiem District, it is considered as Hanoi's business and commercial hub as well as one of its main tourist destinations. You'll know that you're at Hanoi's Old Quarter when you start seeing streets crowded with scooters, bicycles, cyclos as well as hawkers with shoulder-poles containing their merchandise. This is also where most of the budget hotels and affordable hostels can be found and a favorite among backpackers.

TRAVEL TIP: It is better to explore the old quarter just walking around for you get the feel of the place. Walk around, eat, shop and explore the busy streets of the Old Quarter. Just be careful when exploring the streets because cars, bikes and cyclos are coming from all directions, and sometimes they are fast!

OLD QUARTER FOOD TOUR


You may also join an Old Quarter Food Tour and enjoy Hanoi's famous local delicacies. Try a myriad of local delicacies, from the French-influenced Vietnamese banh mi and Bun Cha noodles to sweet milk dessert and fruity drinks. Learn about the history and landmarks of Hanoi's Old Quarter from your English speaking guide.

JOIN THE FOOD TOUR!


Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

7. Buy Souvenirs


The Old Quarters is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs. From ref magnets, to key chains, paintings, bags and t-shirts, almost all of the souvenir items you could think of are here.

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

8. Walk Around Hoan Kiem Lake


Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as "Lake of the Returned Sword," is a public park near Hanoi's Old Quarter. Also called "Hồ Gươm", it is one of its most distinguishable features is the red bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple in the middle of the lake. The lake is one of the major scenic spots in the city center and serves as a landmark in the city.

Hoan Kiem Lake is located at Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam. It is open to the public and admission id free. This is a good spot to slow down, take a rest after a day of shopping and exploring the Old Quarters.

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

9. Watch The Water Puppet Show


When visiting Hanoi, one should not miss the water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. It is a very unique show as the puppet show is performed in a water pool with the puppeteers submerged in water. It is considered to be one of the cultural highlights of Northern Vietnam with roots dating back to the 11th century.

BUY SHOW TICKETS HERE


TRAVEL TIP: Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is located at 57B, Dinh Tien Hoang street, near Hoan Kiem Lake. The puppet shows are held daily at 15:30, 17:00, 18:30, 20:00 and 21:15. Ticket costs around 60,000 - 100,000 VND ($3-5) which can be purchased at the theater. You can also avail a packaged tour of Hanoi City Day Tour with Water Puppet Show for convenience. BOOK A TOUR HERE.

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

10. Have A Taste Of Vietnamese Cuisines


Dine at one of the many street stalls around the Old Quarter to have a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisines. A must-try is the Bun Cha, a Vietnamese dish of grilled pork, veggies and noodles, which is said to have originated from Hanoi. This is really good! Once you tried it, you will be asking for another serving of it. Paired it with Nem Cua Be (Spring Rolls) and you're set for an amazing gastronomic adventure!

TRAVEL TIP: Try the Bun Cha and Nem Cua Be at Nha Hang Dac Kim Restaurant along Duong Thanh street in Old Quarter, they are one of the best Bun Cha places in Hanoi. Store hours is from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

For ease and convenience, you can also book packaged tours such as Old Quarter Food Tour, Hanoi Street Food Tour with Water Puppet Show, or join Cooking Class in Local Garden Villa with Market Tour or Hanoi Apron Up Cooking Class.

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

Hanoi is a vibrant city and there is a ton of things to do and to experience. Start with these 10 things to do and you will be pleasantly surprised at where they will lead you. Enjoy and have fun in Hanoi!


TRAVEL TIP: You can book a Hanoi City Tour on an immersive one day adventure to its best attractions via Klook.com. With this tour, you have the convenience of having a private transportation, English-speaking tour guide, Free hotel pick-up and drop-off, Vietnamese lunch, Free WiFi, and more! BOOK A TOUR HERE

Best Food, Must-eats and Food Experiences in Hanoi



Where to eat in Hanoi
Photo from Klook.com

Old Quarter Food Tour


On this food tour, you'll get to try a variety of local delicacies, from the French influenced Vietnamese banh mi and Bun Cha noodles to sweet milk dessert and fruity drinks, and many more. Join this tour and also learn about the history and landmarks of Hanoi's Old Quarter from your English speaking guide.

SEE RATES AND JOIN THIS TOUR!


Where to eat in Hanoi
Photo from Klook.com

Hanoi Evening Street Eats


On this food tour, you'll be guided by a resident foodie and Hanoi expert. By joining this tour, you'll get to enjoy traditional Hanoi fare by exploring the backstreets and local markets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Enjoy noodles, breads and other tasty snacks, as well as a glass of the local brew at the Bia Hoi corner - a beverage with eastern European roots.

SEE RATES AND JOIN THIS TOUR!


Cooking Classes in Hanoi
Photo from Klook.com

Cooking Classes in Hanoi


Joining a cooking class in Hanoi will let you learn how to cook stunning Vietnamese dishes as well as have taste of the local cuisines and delicacies. Here are some of the cooking classes in Hanoi that you could join and experience.


Halong Bay Vietnam Photos

Best Halong Bay Tour Package


Ha Long Bay is a "UNESCO World Heritage Site" located in the province of Quang Ninh in Vietnam. As a popular travel destination in Vietnam, it is visited by thousands of tourists wanting to see multitude of towering limestone karsts, islands and islets scattered around the 1,553 square km area of the bay.

When in Hanoi, you should not miss visiting Ha Long Bay. For ease and convenience, you can book a packaged tour to Halong Bay via Klook.com. Here are my suggestions:

MORE PHOTOS: 40 Awesome Photos of Ha Long Bay That Will Make You Pack Your Bags And Go To Vietnam

How to get to Halong Bay?


To travel to Halong Bay from Hanoi, there are many options from the local bus, train, to the private car transfers. These options have their own pros/cons and offer unique views. If you're traveling alone, you may book a shared transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay. If you're in a group, your best option is to book a private city transfer.

BOOK A HANOI TO HALONG BAY TRANSFER HERE!


Sample 3 Days and 3 Nights Hanoi and Halong Bay DIY Itinerary


Here's a sample DIY Itinerary that you could follow for your Hanoi and Halong Bay trip. Please note that flights from Manila arrive late night in Hanoi, so it will be 3 nights and 3 full days. You can adjust this itinerary depending on how many days you want to stay in Hanoi, the tourist spots and attractios you want to visit and how many are you in the group. You can also add few more days if you plan to visit Sapa, Ninh Binh, Hai Phong or Tam Coc.

DAY 1 - Arrival + City Tour


00:35 AM - Arrival in Hanoi Airport via Cebu Pacific Air
01:30 AM - Take a private car to Hanoi city center (RESERVE HERE)
03:00 AM - Arrival at the hotel, check-in and sleep
08:00 AM - Hanoi Day Tour via Klook (BOOK HERE)
09:00 AM - Ho Chi Minh Complex (Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum closed on every Monday and Friday)
09:50 AM - One Pillar Pagoda
10:15 AM - Lacquer Paintings workshop
10:45 AM - Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village (Mon, Wed, Fri) Or Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun)
12:30 PM - lunch at local restaurant
01:30 PM - Temple of Literature
03:00 PM - Tran Quoc pagoda
03:45 PM - Ngoc Son temple
04:15 PM - tour ends, drop off at hotel or original meeting point
07:00 PM - Dinner
09:00 PM - Sleep

DAY 2 - Halong Bay Day Tour


You can book a Halong Bay day tour via Klook.com. (RESERVE HERE)
08:00 AM - hotel pick up
  • 3.5 hours journey through rice fields to Halong City harbor
  • Board the cruise
  • Seafood lunch aboard the cruise
  • Explore Thien Cung Cave
  • Kayaking around the islands
04:30 PM - back to Halong City harbor
08:00 PM - arrival back at Hanoi city
08:30 PM - dinner
09:30 PM - Sleep

DAY 3 - Food Tour, Shopping, Departure


08:00 AM - 12:00 NN - Free time
12:00 NN - Check out of the hotel, leave bags at the reception
01:00 PM - Old Quarter Food Tour (BOOK HERE)
04:00 PM - End of Old Quarter Food Tour
04:30 PM - Explore Hanoi Old Quarter and shop for pasalubong
08:30 PM - Back to hotel, get your bags
09:00 PM - Proceed to the airport via private car (RESERVE HERE)
10:30 PM - Check-in for your flight
01:00 AM - Flight from Hanoi to Manila

Halong Bay Vietnam Photos

Trip Budget and Expenses


If you will follow the above DIY Itinerary, here's a sample breakdown of expenses. Please note of the following assumptions:
  • You'll be traveling in a group of two.
  • You'll be sharing the hotel room for 1,000 pesos per night or 500 pesos per person.
  • To save on travel expenses, you'll be joining a group tour in Hanoi and Halong Bay with Klook.com.

Pre-travel Expenses

  • Hotel Accommodation for 3 nights - ₱ 3,000 / 2 = ₱ 1,500 per person
    3G/4G SIM Card - ₱ 348 per person (BOOK HERE!)
  • Airport to Hotel Private car transfer - ₱ 541 / 2 = ₱ 270.50 per person(RESERVE HERE!)
  • Hanoi City Tour - ₱ 1,216 per person (BOOK HERE!)
  • Halong Bay Day Tour - ₱ 1,892 per person(BOOK HERE!)
  • Old Quarter Food Tour - ₱ 919 per person (RESERVE HERE!)
  • Hotel to Airport Private car transfer - ₱ 541 / 2 = ₱ 270.50 per person (RESERVE HERE!)

PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES TOTAL - ₱ 6,686 per person

DAY 1 Expenses


Private car transfer to Hanoi city center - pre-booked
Hotel (1st night) - pre-booked
Breakfast - ₱ 150.00 / person
Hanoi Day Tour with lunch - pre-booked
Dinner - ₱ 200.00 / person
TOTAL - ₱ 350.00 / person

DAY 2 Expenses


Hotel (2nd night) - pre-booked
Breakfast - ₱ 150.00 / person
Halong Bay Day tour with lunch - pre-booked
Dinner - ₱ 200.00 / person
TOTAL - ₱ 350.00 / person

DAY 3 Expenses


Hotel (3rd night) - pre-booked
Breakfast - ₱ 150.00 / person
Old Quarter Food Tour - pre-booked
Private car transfer to Hanoi city center - pre-booked
Dinner - ₱ 200.00 / person
TOTAL - ₱ 350.00 / person

BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES

Day 1 - ₱ 350.00
Day 2 - ₱ 350.00
Day 3 - ₱ 350.00
TOTAL - ₱ 1,050.00 per person
+PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES TOTAL - ₱ 6,686 per person

GRAND TOTAL - ₱ 7,736.00 per person


Not included in these computations are the following:
  • Round trip airfare Manila-Hanoi-Manila
  • NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
  • Food expense for snacks
  • Tips or gratuities which is customary in Vietnam
  • Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses

Halong Bay and Hanoi Travel Blogs


For more inspiration, you may also check out my other travel blogs on Hanoi and Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Top Things To Do in Hanoi Vietnam

I hope this Hanoi Travel Guide Blog with Halong Bay Tour helped you in planning an awesome and amazing Hanoi and Halong Bay Adventures! What are you waiting for?! Plan your trip now! Enjoy and have fun in Hanoi, Vietnam!


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1 comment :

  1. Hi! I would just like to know if you contacted your hotel beforehand that you'll be checking in at 3 am? My family's planning to go to Vietnam on April 2020 but would be arriving around 12:30 am.

    ReplyDelete

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