Hanoi and Halong Bay Itinerary: Best Plans for Every Travel Style

So, why should we combine Hanoi & Halong Bay in one itinerary?

Hanoi and Halong Bay are two iconic destinations in Northern Vietnam, offering different yet perfectly complementary experiences. This combination creates an ideal balance between culture, nature, and cuisine.

Hanoi, Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital, is a city shaped by layers of history with fascinating historical sites, rich cultural traditions, and a vibrant local life. Halong Bay presents a striking contrast as a globally renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its dramatic geology, imposing limestone formations, emerald waters, majestic caves, and unique floating villages.

This pairing is also convenient for transportation, as the destinations are located close to each other. Hanoi serves as the main gateway with direct international flights, and the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes around 2.5 hours by road, making it suitable for travelers of all ages.

Follow this guide to discover how many days to spend in Hanoi and Halong Bay, along with flexible itineraries tailored to different travel styles, budgets, and interests.

How Many Days Are Enough for Hanoi and Halong Bay?

Depending on your available time and interests, the most popular itineraries range from 3 to 5 days, each offering a different level of depth and pace.

• 3 days: Best for travelers with limited time, focusing on the key highlights.
• 4 days: A well-paced itinerary with added time for Hanoi’s culture and a longer overnight Halong cruise.
• 5 days: An in-depth itinerary with unhurried downtime to explore hidden corners.

Top Recommended Hanoi - Halong Bay Itineraries

3-Day Itinerary: Quick Glimpse

This 3-day Hanoi and Halong Bay itinerary focuses on the highlights, combining a brief exploration of Hanoi city with an overnight cruise in Halong Bay.

Day 1: Explore Hanoi Highlights – Taste of Street Food

Start your day early and begin exploring around 8:00, when Hanoi is at its most pleasant and energetic. Breakfast is best enjoyed like a local, with a steaming bowl of pho at a neighborhood eatery or a freshly made banh mi from a street stall.

From here, begin your cultural journey with the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, where ancient architecture offers insight into the country’s long-standing respect for education and Confucian values.

Continue to the nearby Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, an important historical site that includes the mausoleum itself, the Presidential Palace area, and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house. Just a short walk away, the One Pillar Pagoda makes a quick but meaningful visit, known for its unique lotus-inspired design. Later in the morning, head toward West Lake to visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, beautifully set by the water.

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – a meaningful stop to learn about Vietnam’s history

In the afternoon, you can shift to a more relaxed sightseeing pace. A walk around Hoan Kiem Lake allows you to observe daily local life while enjoying one of Hanoi’s most iconic public spaces (on weekends, the road around the lake is walkable, perfect for a nice stroll).

From there, explore the surrounding streets toward St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a striking example of French colonial architecture and a popular area for cafés and people-watching. 

If timing allows, a visit to Hanoi Train Street offers a fascinating glimpse inches from an active railway line; best done with awareness of train schedules (15:30, 19:00, 19:45,...).

As evening approaches, Hanoi’s street food tour takes center stage. Begin with casual street food such as spring rolls (Nem cuon), or kebab rice noodles (Bun cha), then move on to local restaurants for classic dishes like Hue beef noodle soup (Bun bo Hue). End the day with Hanoi’s signature egg coffee or a traditional iced coffee (notice that these are quite strong) at a small café in the Old Quarter.

Savor Hanoi’s iconic egg coffee, a unique blend of strong coffee and creamy egg foam

Most of today’s itinerary can be covered on foot, with short taxi or Grab rides for longer distances, making it easy to get around. Overnight in a centrally located hotel in the Old Quarter or Hoan Kiem Lake, for convenience and atmosphere.

Have a chance to interact with local people, taste the delicious food prepared by them, such as Banh Mi, Bun Cha, Banh Cuon, and Egg Coffee, or visit narrow streets which are never found in any guidebook.

Alternatives

For travelers who want a deeper cultural immersion, consider adding special experiences such as a Water Puppet Show, Hoa Lo Prison Night Tour, Vietnamese cooking class, or a jewelry-making workshop. These activities work well as add-ons if you prefer more than sightseeing.

Recommended Tours

In short, traveling independently can make sightseeing in Hanoi more challenging, as entrance tickets, transportation, and opening hours are not always easy to coordinate. For a smoother experience, booking a guided tour, combined with transportation, will help save time, avoid logistics issues, and allow you to focus more on the experience.

Day 2 & 3: Overnight Cruise in Halong – Kayaking & Caves

Day 2 usually starts with departure from Hanoi around 8:00 - 8:30. When booking a Halong Bay cruise, most travelers choose to add a transfer service, typically by shuttle bus or limousine (around US$40/pax/round-way), which offers a comfortable journey of about 2.5 hours via expressway.

Upon arrival at the cruise port, check-in procedures typically begin around 11:30, followed by boarding between 12:15 and 12:30. Depending on the cruise and port location, guests may board directly at the pier or transfer to the ship by tender boat/speedboat.

After a welcome drink and lunch onboard, guests check into their cabins and have time to rest before the first afternoon excursion. Most 2-day-1-night cruise activities include guided cave exploration, kayaking, island exploration, or bamboo boat rides. Later in the afternoon, the ship often continues to a quieter area of the bay to anchor for swimming or other water-based activities.

Paddle quietly through emerald waters and dramatic limestone cliffs in Halong Bay

For reference, you can see the details of a typical 2D1N Halong Bay cruise itinerary. There are three main routes for a Halong Bay cruise with slightly different experiences: 

>> If you are not sure which route to take, we can give you a detailed explanation of this guide on How to Choose a Halong Bay Cruise.

After sightseeing, travelers get back on board to unwind. Late afternoon activities vary by cruise but often include Happy Hour and a Vietnamese cooking class to make spring rolls or fried rolls.

Followed by that is a set-menu dinner featuring fresh seafood and flavorful local cuisine. After a meal, guests may enjoy light entertainment such as board games, live music, movie screenings, or try squid fishing, etc.

On Day 3, the experience slows down with a peaceful morning on the water. Guests may choose to relax on the sundeck, join a sightseeing trip, or enjoy onboard facilities such as the spa, jacuzzi pool, and lounge areas.

Unwind onboard with a jacuzzi pool and panoramic views of Halong Bay

After checking out of cabins, a brunch is served while the ship cruises back toward the port, with disembarkation typically taking place around 11:00 - 11:30, followed by the return transfer to Hanoi.

After arriving back in Hanoi at around 15:00, travelers who don’t need to travel to the airport or move on immediately can slow down and enjoy a well-earned break at the hotel. As evening falls, the city comes alive again, making it the perfect time to wander through Hanoi’s most energetic streets.

Ta Hien Street buzzes with laughter, clinking glasses, and sidewalk beer stalls, while Hang Ma Street glows with colorful lights and festive displays that are always changing based on the holiday. Nearby, the Old Quarter night market offers a mix of local snacks, souvenirs, etc, creating a lively snapshot of Hanoi after dark.

Recommended Tours

Let’s take a look at some packages you can pick for a seamless experience.

4-Day Itinerary: Balanced Journey

This 4-day Hanoi and Halong Bay itinerary offers a well-paced balance between city exploration and nature, combining one full day of Hanoi highlights, a 2-day overnight cruise in Halong Bay - same as the 3-day itinerary, and an extra day to explore traditional craft villages around the capital.

Day 2: Journey through Handicraft Villages

In this extra day, let’s travel beyond Hanoi’s busy streets into the quieter countryside, where traditional craft villages reveal the artistic soul of northern Vietnam. After breakfast, depart Hanoi by private car or minivan, heading toward rural areas. 

Here are some of the most fascinating villages that are worth visiting, with travel times between villages generally ranging from 30 to 60 minutes:

• Lang Non: Known for producing Vietnam’s iconic non la, this village showcases the delicate, hands-on process of shaping bamboo frames and layering palm leaves. It’s an authentic place to understand how a simple object becomes a national symbol.
• Quang Phu Cau (Incense Village): Famous for its vibrant incense-making tradition. The landscape here is strikingly colorful, with bundles of incense sticks everywhere, providing excellent photo opportunities while offering insight into the spiritual significance of incense in Vietnamese daily life.
• Ha Thai Lacquer Village: One of the most well-known lacquerware centers near Hanoi. Here, artisans demonstrate the intricate, multi-layered process of creating lacquer products, from applying natural resin to polishing each piece by hand. 
• To He Folk Art Experience: For something more playful, you can opt for a To He workshop, where colorful figurines are crafted from glutinous rice dough. This folk art is engaging for families or travelers seeking hands-on cultural interaction.

Watch artisans handcraft Vietnam’s conical hats – simple, skilled, and timeless

Throughout the day, interactions with local artisans highlight how these traditional skills have been preserved despite modern changes, offering a meaningful cultural contrast to Hanoi’s urban energy. 

Alternatives 

For travelers who prefer relaxation over cultural exploration, you can spend only one day in Hanoi and extend the Halong Bay experience to a 3-day-2-night cruise. Longer cruises typically reach more hidden and less-crowded areas of the bay, allowing for a slower pace and more discovery.

Recommended Tours

Those who are actually looking for a unique tour package can check out these options below:

>> Explore the full Halong Bay itinerary here for a perfectly planned trip.

5-Day Itinerary: The Ultimate Experience

This specially curated 5-day itinerary offers a distinctive way to experience Hanoi and Halong Bay beyond the usual highlights. Designed for travelers who value depth and comfort, it blends authentic culinary exploration in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a meaningful spiritual and wellness retreat in Yen Tu Mountain, and a slow-paced overnight cruise through Halong Bay.

Day 1: Explore Michelin-Selected Street Food in Hanoi

Today is dedicated to discovering the historic Old Quarter, where narrow streets and centuries-old trade lanes reflect the city’s layered past. Spend the morning wandering around iconic areas such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Hang Ma Street, and O Quan Chuong. The Old Quarter is compact and best explored on foot, allowing you to easily move while soaking in the lively street atmosphere.

As the day unfolds, explore a street food tour thoughtfully curated to showcase Hanoi’s most iconic flavors. This guided tasting focuses on Michelin-recognized local eateries, allowing travelers to experience signature dishes at places known for quality, authenticity, and consistency.

• Southern-Style Beef Rice Noodles: Mr Bay Mien Tay - Banh Xeo (79 Hang Dieu Street)
• Vietnamese Bread: Banh Mi 25 (25 Hang Ca Street)
• Sweet Potato/ Banana Fritters: Hang Dieu Street (Seasonal street vendors)
• Mango Sweet Soup & Sticky Rice Ice Cream: Che Huong Hai (93 Hang Bac Street)
• Coconut Coffee: Cafe Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street)

Join a Michelin-selected Street Food Tour to experience the most acclaimed local dishes

Day 2 & 3: Yen Tu Heritage Journey - Wellness & Energy Renewal

After a leisurely breakfast, check out from your Hanoi hotel and set off for a scenic journey to MGallery - Legacy Yen Tu, one of Vietnam’s most important spiritual and cultural centers.

Arrive at the resort and receive a warm welcome in the lobby. Spending two days here allows you to slow down and immerse yourself in a unique blend of spiritual heritage, cultural performances, and holistic wellness, with notable experiences below:

• Tinh Hoa Sac Mau Show: A vibrant cultural performance combining music, dance, and elaborately crafted traditional costumes, offering an inspiring introduction to Vietnam’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
• Village Night Festival: An interactive evening with the Dao Thanh Y community, featuring traditional singing, dancing, and cultural exchanges in a lively yet intimate village setting.
• Mountain Mindscape - Wellness Signature at Am Tue Tinh: This holistic body - mind - soul experience includes a foot massage, herbal steam therapy, sauna, hydrotherapy springs, and guided meditation rituals, designed to restore balance and renew energy.

Reconnect your body and mind with the Yen Tu’s signature wellness experience

Meals are an integral part of the experience. Lunches and dinners here feature refined Vietnamese cuisine inspired by royal traditions, where traditional flavors are elevated with elegant presentation in a tranquil setting.

One of the most worthy activities in Yen Tu is exploring the sacred mountain, one of Vietnam’s most important spiritual destinations. You can start the journey on Day 3 morning with a hike to Hoa Yen Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist site set peacefully within the mountain landscape and closely associated with the Truc Lam Zen tradition. From here, visitors can choose between taking the cable car for effortless access and sweeping views over forests and valleys, or walking up along shaded mountain trails for a slower, more contemplative experience immersed in nature.

For exploration lovers, don’t miss the summit where the sacred Dong Pagoda lies, offering a dramatic panoramic perspective over the breathtaking Yen Tu landscape (cable car is recommended as the road is harder to navigate).

Visit Yen Hoa Pagoda, a peaceful stop within the sacred Yen Tu complex

Day 4 & 5: Halong Bay Cruise – Kayak & Cave Visit – Back to Hanoi

After the journey to Yen Tu, we embark on a 2-day, 1-night Halong Bay cruise, cruising through limestone karsts and tranquil waters. Highlights include a guided cave visit (Sung Sot Cave/Dark & Bright,...), kayaking to explore hidden lagoons of Luon Cave/Tra Bau, relaxing swim on Titop Island, followed by sunset activities on board. 

Start the next day with a morning Tai Chi session, then enjoy free time to explore the bay before disembarking and returning to Hanoi.

Flow into the morning with Tai Chi on deck, surrounded by Halong Bay’s serene seascape

Alternatives

For travelers seeking a deeper wellness-focused experience, consider spending 3 days in Legacy Yen Tu - MGallery to fully embrace the spiritual journey. Take time to unwind with mindful rituals, heritage walks, and signature wellness treatments. On the final day, enjoy a short Halong Bay day cruise for a gentle taste of the bay’s natural beauty before returning to Hanoi.

Recommended Tours

>> If you’re looking for a longer route, check out our Best Hanoi Sapa Halong Bay Vietnam Itinerary 6 days

Getting Around Hanoi and Halong Bay

Hanoi to Halong Bay

The transport from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes around 2.5 hours via the modern expressway. For a smooth, hassle-free experience, it’s highly recommended to book transport directly through a travel agency or cruise company.

Getting around Hanoi

Hanoi is compact and lively, making it easy to explore with a mix of short rides and walking.

• Ride-hailing apps (US$5 - 10/person/day): Most convenient, with Grab or Be being the most popular options
• Electric bike rental (US$7 - 10/bike/day): Fun and eco-friendly for short distances
• Walking: Perfect for wandering around the old quarter and nearby attractions

For deeper local insights and smoother logistics, you can also book a guided tour with a Dcar, motorbike, or cycling experience, which combines transport with a knowledgeable guide. Let's explore more Hanoi City Tour options below.

Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Itinerary

You may need these few practical tips to travel smarter, stay comfortable, and enjoy a seamless journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay.

Best time & Weather

The best time to visit Hanoi and Halong Bay is from March to April and October to November, offering pleasant weather, lower humidity, and less rainfall. There are also some alternatives.

• Summer (May - Aug): Hot with occasional rain, making cruises with swimming pools, balcony cabins, and flexible indoor activities the best choice.
• Winter (Nov - Jan): Cool and dry, with limited swimming; ideal for sightseeing and enjoying onboard experiences.

What to pack

• Clothing & accessories: Light jacket, Hat, 3–4 outfits (at least one long outfit), Swimwear, Comfortable shoes 
• Health & personal care: Sunblock, Motion sickness pills
• Travel essentials: Passport, some cash, Universal adapter

Food, Safety & Payments

• Eat at well-reviewed, tourist-friendly restaurants. If possible, dine outside 12:00 - 13:00 and 19:00 - 20:00 to avoid crowds.
• Most local eateries do not accept credit cards, so carrying cash is more convenient.
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; US$2 - 4 is sufficient for good service.

Hotel & Cruise tips

• Stay in the Old Quarter or within 2 km for easy movement to attractions in Hanoi.
• Higher-deck cabins with private balconies offer better views but cost more.
• Choose well-established Halong Bay cruise lines known for strong safety standards and consistently high guest reviews, and explore trusted options.

Estimated Costs and Tour Options

Here’s a quick breakdown of typical costs per person (including accommodations, transportation, and meals), helping you balance budget, comfort, and experiences when planning your Hanoi - Halong Bay journey.

Whether you choose a group tour or a private tour, each option comes with its own advantages:

• Group tours are value-for-money, well-organized, and a great way to meet fellow travelers, though the schedule is usually fixed.
• Private tours, while more expensive, offer maximum flexibility, personalized pacing, and privacy, making them ideal for couples, families, or travelers who want a tailor-made experience.

No matter which style you prefer, the smartest choice is to book a combo tour that includes Hanoi sightseeing, Halong Bay cruise, transfers, and hotels. This not only saves time and effort but also ensures smooth logistics, consistent service quality, and better overall value.

For a hassle-free, well-curated journey, contact BestPrice Travel to get expert advice and the best combo options for your itinerary.

FAQs

1. If I only have 2 days, how should I plan Hanoi and Halong Bay?

With just 2 days, the most practical option is to focus on Halong Bay. You can join a 2D1N overnight cruise with round-trip transfer from Hanoi, which already includes meals, activities, and sightseeing.

If you really want to explore Hanoi, you can join a city tour on the 1st day and book a Halong Bay day cruise on the next day.

2. Halong Bay or Ninh Binh: Which is better if I only have 2 - 3 days?

• 2 days: Choose Ninh Binh if you prefer a land-based trip with minimal travel time from Hanoi and no overnight packing.
• 3 days: Halong Bay is the better choice, especially with a 2D1N cruise, as it offers a more iconic seascape and a fuller experience.

In short, Ninh Binh can be explored in only 1 day, so it suits short, relaxed trips, while Halong Bay shines when you have at least 3 days.

3. How much does an overnight Halong Bay cruise typically cost? 

On average, prices range per person per day as follows:

• 3-star cruises: From US$65 - 70+/pax/day
• 4-star cruises: From US$75 - 80+/pax/day
• 5-star cruises: From US$90 - 150+/pax/day

Prices usually include cabin accommodation, meals, onboard activities, and sightseeing fees, but transfers from Hanoi may be extra unless booked as a package.

4. Should I book a Halong Bay cruise in advance or upon arrival in Hanoi?

It is strongly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons (Oct - Apr), to ensure better cabin availability, clearer cruise standards, and transparent pricing. 

>> You can read a detailed comparison here: Should I Book Halong Bay Cruise in Advance or On Arrival?

5. Can I combine Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh or Sapa in 6 days? 

Yes, 6 days is enough for a well-paced combination. Here is a sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi - Old Quarter Walk & Street food
• Day 2 & 3: Halong Bay 2D1N Overnight Cruise
• Day 4: Ninh Binh Day Trip (Trang An - Hoa Lu - Mua Cave) - Night Train/ Sleeper Bus to Sapa
• Day 5: Sapa Trekking/ Fansipan Exploration
• Day 6: Back to Hanoi - Free Day

Huan Nguyen

(Image source: Internet)