Full-Day Hanoi City Tour

Hanoi, the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, is situated at the heart of Northern Vietnam. As the cultural, political, economic, and commercial hub of the country, Hanoi has endured a thousand years of history marked by destruction, wars, and natural disasters. Despite these challenges, the city has preserved many ancient architectural works, including the Old Quarter and over 600 pagodas and temples. Notable sites include the One Pillar Pagoda (built in 1049), the Temple of Literature (built in 1070), Thang Long Citadel, the Hanoi Opera House, and the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh.

Itinerary:

08:00 – 08:30: Pick-up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter or at the Hanoi Opera House.

Morning:

Tran Quoc Pagoda: Located on an eastern isle of West Lake (Tay Ho district), Tran Quoc Pagoda is considered the oldest pagoda in Thang Long – Hanoi, with a history spanning over 1,500 years. The pagoda is a harmonious blend of majestic architecture and the peaceful landscape of West Lake. During the Ly and Tran dynasties, it served as a Buddhist center in Thang Long.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex: Visit the Mausoleum and Stilt House where the great leader Ho Chi Minh lived and worked in his final years. Here, you’ll gain insights into his simple lifestyle. You’ll also stop by the One Pillar Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s four iconic symbols.

Note: On Mondays and Fridays, the Mausoleum Management Board conducts maintenance, so visits to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum will be limited to the exterior, along with the Stilt House and One Pillar Pagoda.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: The museum is one of Hanoi’s most fascinating, showcasing both indoor and outdoor exhibits. The outdoor area features traditional houses of various ethnic minorities, particularly from Northern and Central Highlands.

Note: On Mondays, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is closed. Instead, you’ll visit Bat Trang Pottery Village or the Vietnamese Women’s Museum.

Noon: Return to the Old Quarter for lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, enjoy a drive through the 36 streets of the Old Quarter, with your guide sharing stories about the ancient marketplace.

Afternoon:

Temple of Literature: The first university in Vietnam, this ancient school in Thang Long is a historical and cultural heritage site that offers a deeper understanding of Hanoi’s rich traditions and history.

Hoa Lo Prison: Built in 1899, this prison was used by the French to detain political prisoners and, later, by the Vietnamese to hold American pilots, including John McCain, who sarcastically dubbed it the “Hanoi Hilton.”

16:00: Conclude the Hanoi City Tour with a drop-off at your hotel. Alternatively, you can choose to be dropped off at Ham Ca Map area to explore further on your own (additional costs not included). You may wish to:

Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, admire the blend of Vietnamese and French architecture, visit Ngoc Son Temple, and cross the iconic Huc Bridge.

Rent a bicycle or tram to explore the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake.

Purchase tickets for a water puppet show.

We look forward to seeing you again!

Inclusions:

• AC Transportation
• English-speaking guide
• Lunch
• Bottled water
• Entrance fees

Exclusions:

• Beverages
• Personal expenses
• Drinks
• Travel insurance
• Tips & gratuities (minimum $3/person)

What to Bring:

• A hat & sunscreen
• Appropriate clothing for the season
• Comfortable walking shoes/clothes
• Note: Visitors to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum should avoid wearing shorts.