The Best Highlights Of Hanoi 6 Days -

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Duration

6 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

Commence and conclude your journey in Hanoi! Embark on The Best Highlights of Hanoi 6 Days Explorer tour, a comprehensive 6-day itinerary guiding you through Hanoi, Vietnam, and four additional captivating destinations. This package encompasses accommodation in a hotel, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and more.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Indochina Royal Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span> Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam

Upon your arrival at the airport, our amiable representative will extend a warm welcome, and a waiting car will promptly transport you to the hotel. Nestled in an ideal location for discovering Hanoi Old Town at your own pace, check-in at the hotel marks the beginning of your stay. Rest assured, airport pick-up is part of the package.

Exploring the charming city of Hanoi, adorned with lakes, tree-lined boulevards, and delightful public parks, you'll discover the captivating capital of Vietnam. This city boasts alluring French-style architecture that adds to its allure. Your day of sightseeing is brimming with cultural gems, commencing with a visit to the One Pillar Pagoda, an architectural marvel constructed by Ly Thai Tong. The Temple of Literature, founded by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, awaits your exploration.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Hanoi at Hoan Kiem Lake, featuring an islet adorned with the quaint Tortoise Pagoda. A delectable lunch at a local restaurant fuels your adventure, followed by visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Opera House, and St. Joseph Cathedral. Your exploration concludes with a visit to Bao Tang Lich, once the museum of l'Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient, housing artifacts that narrate Vietnam's dynamic history. The day unfolds with a Water Puppet Show and a Cyclo tour through the captivating Old Quarter. Rest for the night in Hanoi.

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi - Halong Bay | Overnight on Cruises

7:30 am to 8:30 am: Pick up from your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

As we journey towards Halong Bay, a brief stop at an arts and crafts center allows you to witness local craftsmanship and enjoy a quick meal.

12:00 pm: Arrival at the port and transfer to the Glory Legend Cruise. Receive a welcome drink, cruise briefing, safety instructions, and check-in.

Relish a Vietnamese lunch while cruising through the bay, passing by the majestic limestone formations. Subsequently, board a bamboo craft navigated by local experts, guiding you through a mesmerizing cave formation into a serene bay where, if fortunate, you may encounter playful monkeys.

Later, unwind at Ti Top beach, offering opportunities to swim in the warm waters, sunbathe, or trek to the summit for panoramic views. Return to the boat and enjoy free time while sailing to the Luon Bo area, anchoring for the night.

Engage in a Cooking class on the sundeck, followed by Happy Hour (Buy one drink, get one free). Witness the breathtaking sunset over Halong Bay and savor a Deluxe Vietnamese and International BBQ Set Menu Dinner at 19:30 pm.

Evening activities comprise leisure time for socializing at the bar, watching movies, enjoying various Vietnamese cultural films, and spending a romantic night with music on Glory Legend Cruise. Additional options include playing cards, chess, reading magazines in your room and the dining room. For those seeking adventure, try your hand at squid fishing or fishing from the boat.

23:00 pm: Conclusion of day two.

6:00-7:00 am: Kickstart your day with an early Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan, harmonizes deep breathing and relaxation with deliberate, slow, and gentle movements.

7:00-8:00 am: Indulge in a delightful breakfast featuring coffee, tea, and pastries served in the dining room, accompanied by captivating morning views of the bay's landscape.

8:00-9:30 am: Explore Sung Sot Cave, one of Halong Bay's largest caves, showcasing stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

9:30-11:00 am: Enjoy brunch while cruising back to Tuan Chau Wharf. Take this time to unwind and absorb the last glimpses of Halong Bay.

Check out before 11:30 am.

12:00 pm: Depart from Halong Bay to Hanoi.

15:30 pm: Our team will drop you off at your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

<span> Day 5</span> Excursion to Bai Dinh - Trang An in Ninh Binh

07:45 - 08:15: Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi city to commence your journey to Ninh Binh province (120 Km) for the Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda tour.

10:30: Reach the sacred Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest pagoda in Vietnam boasting 500 La Han statues and the country's largest bronze Buddha statue standing at an impressive 10 meters in height and weighing 100 tons. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant featuring special dishes such as Goat meat with elderberry and pork storage vessel.

13:00: Set off to explore the Trang An tourist attraction, embarking on a boat trip to traverse the cave complex, including Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Nau Ruou, each possessing an air of mystery and wilderness. Admire the breathtaking scenery of mountains and rivers, reminiscent of Halong Bay but on the land of Ninh Binh.

16:00: Return to Hanoi by car.

18:00-18:30: Arrive in Hanoi Downtown. Check into your hotel for an overnight stay.

Enjoy a leisurely morning to unwind and relax before our Private Car arrives to transfer you to the airport for your return flight home. This marks the end of your memorable Hanoi & Halong Bay journey. Farewell, and we hope to welcome you again in the future!

Airport transfer is included!

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture - 🏛️ Exploring Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture: A Journey Through Time in the French Quarter When most travelers think of Hanoi, their minds often jump to the lively chaos of the Old Quarter — buzzing scooters, sizzling street food stalls, and narrow alleyways filled with history. But just a short stroll away lies another side of the city: the French Quarter, where grand boulevards, leafy trees, and elegant colonial mansions whisper stories of Vietnam’s colonial past. If the Old Quarter feels like a vibrant maze, then the French Quarter offers space, serenity, and timeless elegance. And what makes it truly fascinating is how these buildings — constructed during French rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries — now blend seamlessly into modern-day Hanoi. In this blog, let’s dive deep into Hanoi’s colonial architecture, explore the must-see landmarks, uncover hidden gems, and share insider tips to make your visit in 2025 unforgettable. 🌿 A Different Pace: From Old Quarter to French Quarter After the sensory overload of the Old Quarter, stepping into the French Quarter feels like a breath of fresh air. The streets are wider, the pace slower, and the trees taller. Instead of tiny tube houses, here you’ll find broad boulevards, neoclassical façades, and elegant villas that once housed colonial administrators and wealthy merchants. This neighborhood, located around Hoan Kiem Lake and stretching toward Ba Dinh District, is sometimes called Hanoi’s “second French Quarter.” Both areas showcase different layers of colonial influence, each with its own unique atmosphere. Walking here is a joy: you can actually hear birdsong, admire the pastel-colored villas, and feel the cool shade of banyan and flamboyant trees. It’s no wonder that many embassies, luxury hotels, and cultural institutions now call this district home. 🏰 Architectural Styles: From Neoclassical to Art Deco The architecture of Hanoi’s French Quarter isn’t uniform. Instead, it’s a rich mix of styles that evolved over decades: ✨ Neoclassical (early 1900s) – Think grand pillars, symmetrical facades, and whitewashed walls. These buildings often housed important colonial offices.✨ Beaux-Arts & Renaissance influences – Characterized by ornate balconies, arched windows, and elaborate detailing.✨ Art Deco (1930s) – Sleek, geometric lines that represented modernity at the time.✨ Oriental touches – Some villas incorporated tiled roofs or dragon motifs, blending French design with Vietnamese aesthetics. The result? A living museum of architectural evolution, all within walking distance. 🌟 Must-See Colonial Landmarks in Hanoi (Updated for 2025) Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss when exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter and beyond: 1. Hanoi Opera House 🎭 Perhaps the most iconic colonial building in Hanoi, the Opera House (built in 1911) was modeled after Paris’s Palais Garnier. With its elegant yellow façade, grand columns, and ornate interior, it remains a cultural hub. Today, it hosts concerts, ballets, and international performances — check the 2025 schedule for special events if you want to experience it firsthand. 2. Government Guest House 🏛️ Originally the residence of the Governor of Tonkin, this grand neoclassical mansion now serves as the Government Guest House. While it’s not open to the public, you can admire its pastel-yellow walls and elegant gardens from the outside. It’s located at the intersection of Ngo Quyen and Le Thach streets, just a few steps from Hoan Kiem Lake. 3. Metropole Hanoi Hotel ✨ A living legend of colonial luxury, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi (built in 1901) has hosted everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Angelina Jolie. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can enjoy afternoon tea in the glass-roofed Le Club Bar or sip cocktails at the Bamboo Bar by the pool. 4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral ⛪ Although technically in the Old Quarter, this Gothic Revival church (built in 1886) reflects the French colonial period. Often compared to a mini version of Notre-Dame de Paris, it’s still an active place of worship and a popular photography spot. 5. Ba Dinh’s Colonial Villas 🏡 Along Phan Dinh Phung and Dien Bien Phu streets in Ba Dinh District, you’ll find tree-lined avenues dotted with French villas. Many of them now serve as embassies or government offices. These quieter streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll away from tourist crowds. 6. Vietnam National Museum of History 📚 Housed in a former colonial building with yellow walls and Indochinese architectural flair, this museum is worth visiting not only for its exhibits but also for its design. The mix of French style and Vietnamese motifs makes it a standout landmark. 🚶 Best Ways to Explore the French Quarter Exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter is best done on foot. Here are some tips for your 2025 visit: 👟 Walking Tour – Start from Hoan Kiem Lake, pass by the Opera House, then wander down Trang Tien Street, where luxury boutiques now sit inside colonial storefronts. Continue toward Ngo Quyen Street to see the Government Guest House, then loop around toward the Metropole. 🚲 Cyclo Ride – For a slower pace, hop on a cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) and let a local guide pedal you through the boulevards while you sit back and soak in the views. 🚌 Guided Tour – Several Hanoi walking tour companies now offer themed “Colonial Architecture Tours,” which include hidden villas and access to buildings usually closed to the public. ☕ Cafés & Dining in Colonial Buildings One of the best ways to experience colonial architecture is to enjoy it from the inside. Many of Hanoi’s historic villas have been transformed into stylish cafés, restaurants, and art spaces: Maison de Tet Décor – A villa-turned-café with garden views, perfect for brunch. L’Espace (French Cultural Center) – A cultural hub with exhibitions, film screenings, and a cozy café. Metropole’s Angelina Bar – For fine dining and crafted cocktails inside one of Hanoi’s most elegant hotels. 📸 Photography Tips for 2025 Morning Light: The soft glow between 7–9 AM is ideal for capturing yellow façades. Avoid Midday Heat: Hanoi can get hot, especially from May to September. Details Matter: Don’t just snap the whole building — zoom in on wrought-iron balconies,...Hanoi Opera House - 🎭 Hanoi Opera House in 2025: A Timeless Icon of Art, Culture & History Few landmarks in Hanoi capture the city’s unique mix of history, culture, and elegance quite like the Hanoi Opera House. Known officially as the Municipal Theatre, this magnificent building stands proudly at the eastern end of Trang Tien Street, where French charm meets Vietnamese soul. More than just a venue for performances, the Opera House is a symbol of Hanoi’s colonial heritage and its continuing transformation into a global cultural capital. Let’s dive into its history, architecture, experiences, and tips for visiting in 2025. 🏛️ A Journey Through Time 🇫🇷 French Ambitions in Vietnam Construction of the Opera House began in 1901 and lasted nearly ten years. Built on reclaimed land, it officially opened in 1911, modeled after the neo-Baroque Palais Garnier in Paris. With its Ionic columns, slate tiles imported from France, and intricate façade, it was the ultimate jewel of French Hanoi. During the colonial era, it wasn’t just a building — it was the epicenter of high society, where the French elite attended operas, ballets, and classical concerts. ✊ The August Revolution of 1945 In August 1945, the Opera House became a stage for politics rather than performance. From its balcony, the Viet Minh proclaimed the success of the August Revolution, marking a turning point in Vietnam’s fight for independence. 🎭 From Socialist Realism to Global Stage After independence, the Opera House hosted plays and performances centered on Socialist Realism and revolutionary ideals. However, following a major restoration in the early 2000s, the building returned to its former grandeur, once again shining as a cultural hub. Today in 2025, it remains a living monument where history, art, and architecture merge. ✨ Architectural Grandeur Step inside (or even admire from outside), and you’ll instantly understand why this is one of Hanoi’s crown jewels. 🕯️ Interiors That Breathe Elegance The Opera House is adorned with: Crystal chandeliers ✨ Sweeping marble staircases 🪞 Ornate Parisian mirrors Red velvet seats and golden accents Every detail reflects Parisian luxury, yet it has been carefully restored to preserve authenticity. 🌙 Exterior Beauty If you don’t attend a show, don’t worry. The facade is a masterpiece in itself — especially under: Evening floodlights 🌆 The soft glow of a full moon 🌕 Early morning golden light 🌞 It’s a photographer’s dream, and many locals gather here just to enjoy the atmosphere. 🎶 Performances & Events in 2025 The Hanoi Opera House isn’t just about history — it’s an active cultural hub. 🎻 What You Can See In 2025, the Opera House continues to host: Classical concerts featuring Vietnamese and international orchestras 🎼 Ballet & opera performances in collaboration with global companies 🩰 Traditional Vietnamese music and dance shows with modern interpretations 🎶 Contemporary fusion events, blending Vietnamese instruments with Western symphonies 🎷 💡 Pro Tip Tickets often sell out quickly, especially for international collaborations. Book online directly at the official Hanoi Opera House website or via reputable Vietnamese ticketing platforms. 🍵 Experiences Around the Opera House The Opera House is located in the French Quarter, one of Hanoi’s most elegant districts. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss nearby: ☕ Café Terrace at Sofitel Metropole Hotel – enjoy afternoon tea in Hanoi’s most iconic hotel. 🛍️ Trang Tien Plaza – luxury shopping and local designer boutiques. 🎨 L’Espace (Institut Français) – exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events. 🌳 Hoan Kiem Lake – just a short walk away, perfect for an evening stroll. 📸 Best Photo Spots For the perfect Opera House picture in 2025: 📍 Across Trang Tien Street – for a full frontal view. 📍 From the side boulevards – to capture the columns and angles. 📍 At night – when the building glows in golden light. 📍 During Tet Festival – when the Opera House is decorated with flowers and lights. 🗺️ Practical Travel Tips (2025) 🕰️ Opening Hours The Opera House is only open to the public during performances and special tours. If you don’t attend a show, you can still admire the exterior anytime. 🎟️ Ticket Prices Local performances: From 150,000 VND (~6 USD) International shows: Up to 2,500,000 VND (~100 USD) Guided tours (when available): Around 200,000–300,000 VND (~8–12 USD) 🚕 Getting There 🚶 Walking: Only 10–15 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake. 🚖 Taxi or Grab: Affordable and convenient. 🚲 Cyclo ride: A charming old-fashioned way to arrive. 👜 Dress Code While not extremely strict, smart casual is recommended. Locals often dress elegantly for evening shows. 🌟 Why Visit the Hanoi Opera House in 2025? It’s Hanoi’s most iconic colonial building. It’s a living museum of Vietnamese history — from colonial times to independence. It offers world-class performances in a unique setting. It’s surrounded by the French Quarter’s charm — perfect for a half-day cultural stroll. 🎭 Final Thoughts The Hanoi Opera House is more than just a building — it’s a symbol of Hanoi’s identity. From colonial glamour to revolutionary history and modern-day cultural rebirth, it has witnessed the city’s greatest transformations. In 2025, whether you attend a world-class ballet, enjoy a Vietnamese traditional concert, or simply admire its architecture under the moonlight, the Opera House promises an unforgettable experience. 👉 My advice: Don’t just pass by. Book a performance, step inside, and let the magic of Hanoi’s Opera House transport you across time.

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From: $356

4-star hotels

4.9 (126 Reviews)

The best Highlights of Hanoi 6 Days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 2 Hanoi City Tour

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay | Overnight on Cruises

Day 4 Halong Bay - Hanoi

Day 5 Excursion to Bai Dinh - Trang An in Ninh Binh

Day 6 Hanoi Departure

Durations

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Regional Tours

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