7-Day Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Hoi An

A week in Vietnam pairs the north's capital and limestone bay with the central coast's lantern town, linked by one short domestic flight.

Day by day

1. Day 1 · Hanoi

   Arrive, Hoan Kiem Lake and an Old Quarter street-food walk.

2. Day 2 · Hanoi

   Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and a water puppet show.

3. Day 3 · Ha Long Bay

   Day cruise among the limestone islands and caves.

4. Day 4 · Hoi An

   Fly to Da Nang, drive to Hoi An; lantern-lit old town at night.

5. Day 5 · Hoi An

   Ancient town, Japanese Bridge and a tailor visit or cooking class.

6. Day 6 · Hoi An

   Marble Mountains or An Bang beach, then a slow evening by the river.

7. Day 7 · Hanoi

   Fly back to Hanoi and home.

Vegetarian, Jain & halal food

Ask for 'chay' (vegetarian): Buddhist vegetarian restaurants are common, especially near pagodas. Pho and bun cha are meat-based, so try banh mi chay, fresh spring rolls and cao lau without pork.

Travelling with kids or parents

Hanoi's traffic is intense: use Grab cars rather than walking long distances with children. A day cruise on Ha Long Bay is easier than an overnight boat for parents.

Good to know

• Check the e-visa rules for your passport before booking.
• October to April is the most comfortable time in the north.
• Grab is the easiest way to get around cities.

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