3 DAYS IN DANANG – PLAN A SUMMER VACATION IN VIETNAM

If you’re preparing for a summer trip to Asia, don’t forget Danang – the most worth-living city in Vietnam. Have you ever wondered why people keep talking about Danang by this name? Spending just 3 days in Danang, you can explore lots of amazing sights and experience the comfortable environment there. In this blog, we will give you some useful tips and a quick description of your 3-day trip to Danang City.

Why Choose Danang For Your Vacation

THE VARIETY OF LANDSCAPES

For your vacation time, maybe you will have plenty of places to make a decision. If you want to play on both land and beach, you should put Da Nang – Vietnam at the top of your list. Danang has a diversity of landscapes and provides you with a lot of services and activities at an affordable price.

About the background of the city, Danang is located in the middle of the country. Due to this position, Danang has both massive land and a beautiful beach with a 60-km-long shoreline. Not only famous for its beaches, but Da Nang also has many sightseeing spots. In this article, we will suggest to you some places to go, don’t miss it.

Moreover, the three UNESCO World Heritage sites of My Son Sanctuary, Hoi An Ancient Town, and Hue Citadel are all connected through Da Nang. So visiting Da Nang will give you a chance to come across Hue and Hoi An most conveniently. If you stay 3 days in Danang, you just should explore this city instead of going to Hoi An or Hue. If you have a long time here, you can extend the itinerary and get a look at our 5-day tour as a reference.

THE WEATHER IS ALWAYS NICE

The weather in Da Nang is generally dependable, with high temperatures and minimal alterations. In Da Nang, the annual average temperature is around 25 degrees. The lowest temperature ranges from 18 to 23 degrees Celsius in December, January, and February, while the greatest temperature is a little over 28 to 30OC in June, July, and August.

Plan The Appropriate Time For 3 Days In Danang

CHECK THE SEASONAL TOURISM NEWS

Da Nang beach â Top 8 best beaches in Da Nang, Vietnam - Living + Nomads â Travel tips, Guides, News & Information!

The best period is from April to August because there is less rain and there are more daylight hours for outdoor activities like touring. Although it’s summer at this time of year, it’s not particularly hot. This is also Da Nang’s busiest travel period.

The best time to travel on a budget is from September to March. Since there won’t be as many tourists during the wet season, hotel and restaurant services make lots of hot deals to get people in. When the wet season finishes in January and March, this is the greatest time to visit Da Nang on a budget. There is less rain and the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. Da Nang is likewise not overly congested.

CHECK THE SPECIAL OCCASIONS IN DANANG

Spending 3 days in Danang means that you should decide on a more effective timeline according to your budget and your demand because you don’t have too much time here. So checking the special days in this city can be another way for you to enjoy your vacation. You can also visit Da Nang according to the festivals of the city. Various events are held in Danang per year, some of them are:

Da Nang International Fireworks Festival: March till April 30th – Vietnamese Independence Day

Da Nang International Fireworks Festival - Hidden Hoian

Festivals in Ba Na Hills: Ba Na Hills is well-known for many special festivals during the year
- From February to March, visitors can attend Ba Na Flower Festival to contemplate the beauty of blooming flowers.
- Carnival Festival takes place from April to September.
- B’estival Beer Festival from June to September.
- Wine Festival in May, and Winter Festival during Christmas Eve.

Ba Na Hills Travel Experience 2020 - Private Car Transfer Hoi An

Boat Racing Festival: Organized in January of the lunar calendar on the Han River
Quan The Am Festival: from February 19th to 21st of the lunar calendar at Marble Mountains Da Nang

Plan The Must-try Food List For 3 Days In Danang

Planning where to eat is an essential part of the trip. Here are some suggestions you can follow. With a 3-day trip, you should try some traditional food from Danang. Above all, the most exciting thing is: that Danang has a wide variety of food, from meat to seafood, from rice to noodles. Therefore, whether you are a vegetarian or meat eater, Danang can serve you lots of cheap and delicious dishes.

QUANG NOODLES (MY QUANG)

Quang Noodles are the kind of noodles with a few sloths, yellow noodles, and grilled pork. On top of the bowl, there are fried peanuts and rice crackers, which will make the noodles more interesting.

This well-known dish’s foundation is a mixture of rice noodles with meat (or seafood), various fresh herbs, and a tiny bit of broth flavored with turmeric for flavor. Basil, cilantro, and onion leaves are the typical herbs used by locals.

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Price: From 30.000 per dish
>>>Recommendations:

Madame Xuan – 77 Ha Huy Tap Street, Chinh Gian Province, Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City

Miss Dung – 121 Do Ba, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang city

GRILLED PORK NOODLES (BUN THIT NUONG)

A bowl of fresh grilled pork noodles is the food you’re looking for if you enjoy a barbecue and peanut products, such as peanut butter. It’s a well-liked dish in central and southern Vietnam, and fortunately, Da Nang has some of the best bowls of this well-known cuisine on its streets. Vermicelli noodles, green salad, bean sprouts, peanuts, and cooked peanut sauce are all placed in a bowl with vermicelli noodles. Fresh herbs (mint and basil) are also presented.

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Price: From 30.000 VND per bowl
>>>Recommendation: Grab yourself a full of noodles in some restaurants on Pham Cu Luong street

SEAFOOD

Because you’re spending just 3 days in Danang, you must take a seafood excursion as soon as you arrive there! In the entire nation, Da Nang is probably the most well-liked location for dining on fresh and varied seafood. Since drinking while enjoying a table of freshly prepared fish is ingrained profoundly in the Danang culture, seafood restaurants are frequently crowded to the very last seat practically every night.

There are a lot of seafood eateries with welcoming locals and have more affordable costs. Searching for a genuine regional experience? Wander around Nguyen Tat Thanh Street on the opposite side of the city. The entire street offers breathtaking views of the neighborhood beach and Hai Van Pass, as well as numerous seafood eateries that are crowded with locals.

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Price: For the cozy dinner for 4 people, the price can be from 500.000 VND per person
>>>Recommendation: For the best view, you can choose a restaurant on Nguyen Tat Thanh Street

PANCAKE (BANH XEO)

The name of this well-known food, Banh xeo, which means sizzling pancake, accurately describes what it is. If you enjoy pancakes, you’ll undoubtedly want to know what sizzling is. The name for this dish originates from the loud sizzling sound that occurs when the rice batter is dropped into heated oil on a skillet. Rice flour, turmeric powder, and water are combined to create a pancake batter.

People typically combine it with little shrimp, various cuts of meat, beans, and bean sprouts, depending on the eatery. Typically, it is served with lettuce, mint, and basil.

Price: From 20.000 per piece of cake
>>>Recommendation: Madame Duong Pancake – K280/23 Hoang Dieu Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City

SWEET SOUP (CHE)

What could be greater after a filling and delicious lunch than to indulge in a sweet soup, a typical Vietnamese dessert? This famous treat is a reference to any sweet Vietnamese dish, including pudding or soup. Sweet soup is typically created with a mixture of coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, frozen beans, peas, and kidney beans as well as various kinds of jelly and fresh fruit pieces.

Price: From 10.000 VND per dish

>>>Recommendation: Almost every corner of the street in Da Nang will sell this food and they are all sweet and delicious.

One must-try food we recommend for you: If you like durian, Ms. Lien Durian Sweet Soup is the best choice for you – 198 Hoang Dieu Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang city

Plan The Places To Visit For 3 Days In Danang

“What to do in Danang for 3 days” can be a hard question for you. In a short time, you can follow our must-visit checklist and some suggestions for the itinerary.

DAY 1: EXPLORE DANANG MOUNTAIN AND THE BEACH

The Marble Mountains

This collection of five magnificent marble hills, which is not far from the city center, attracts tourists with its abrupt emergence from the nearby delta, Da Nang’s earliest Buddhist temples, and fascinating caverns. The best time of day to explore the area’s hills is early in the morning. The art of carving stone sculptures is still practiced close to the mountain. During the busiest season, there are 2,2 million visitors.

Dragon Bridge Fireshow – Weekend Only

The Dragon Bridge that spans the Han River breathes fire and water on Saturday and Sunday. The show starts at 9 and lasts till 9:30. The riverbank park below, on a balcony of a café or restaurant, on a boat, or on a bridge for a closer view are all options for spectators.

My Khe Beach

From the Lady Buddha to the city’s core, My Khe is traveling. Forbes listed this extensive stretch of fine sand as one of the top six attractive beaches in the world. Travelers can pause here for a little while to take in the scenery and take a barefoot stroll along the water’s edge. If you’re traveling alone, pack a swimsuit.

Staying for 3 days in Danang Beach can give you so much entertainment, fun, and joy. Let’s prepare carefully for the beach with sunscreen, a straw hat, and rubber slippers.

DAY 2: EXPLORE BA NA HILLS

Linh Ung Pagoda – 67m Lady Buddha in Son Tra Peninsula

The tallest Lady Buddha in Vietnam resides in Linh Ung Pagoda, which is located north of the coast. It was built between 2004 and 2010 and reaches a height of 67 meters. The Buddha is said to face the city to protect its inhabitants from natural catastrophes. There are large worshiping shrines, bonsai gardens, picturesque vistas, and bodhi trees nearby.

Sunset in the Golden Hand Bridge

With 3 days in Danang, you can not miss the huge Golden Hand Bridge. Travelers will begin an astonishing adventure on the world-record Ba Na Hills cable car, before arriving close to the Golden Bridge, 40 minutes to the west. The bridge was opened in 2018, and because of its incredibly spectacular, surreal beauty, it quickly gained popularity on social media. It is tenderly held by two enormous hands that symbolize the hands of the Mountain God drawing golden silk from the highlands. To avoid the crowds and the hot weather, come here in the late afternoon.

Using a Cable Car to reach the top of the mountain, you can observe the natural beauty of Danang City from a high level. This is an incredible experience that no words can describe.

DAY 3: DA NANG CITY TOUR

Sun World Park

Sun World Da Nang Wonders, also known as Asia Park, is the most famous modern amusement park in this city. The park has a huge area of nearly 900,000m2 with 22 games. You have to go for nearly a day to be able to experience it all. Located on the banks of the Han River, players in the park will see beautiful Da Nang from different angles.

Moreover, there are several monthly events in the park depending on the month you get there. You should check the website: https://asiapark.sunworld.vn/

The price is different for the activities, so you can check with the ticket seller before choosing which game to play. Besides, visitors are free to visit and go sightseeing around the park.

Place: 01 Phan Dang Luu, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City

Opening hours: 15h – 22h (Monday to Friday), 9h – 22h (Weekend)

Love bridge

Love Bridge is a nice bridge in Danang, with many heart-shaped lights along the bridge. People check in here not just because of the scenery but also because they want to save memories with their lovers. So if you go to Danang as a couple or a family, don’t forget to come across and take a photo on this bridge!

For the more memorable moments, you can buy a lock, put it on the bridge and throw the key to the beach. It’s proof of the love of you and your partners.

Place: Han River at Tran Hung Dao Street, Son Tra District, Da Nang City

Final Thought

3 days in Da Nang is perfect for you to enjoy Da Nang because it’s enough for relaxing and discovering famous sights and having some tasty meals. Your vacation will be even more exciting if you have a detailed plan. We hope that our information will be useful for you. Moreover, we wish you a nice and safe summer vacation on one of the six most beautiful beaches in the world (according to Forbes US 2016). If you have any difficulties in planning your trip, please leave the contact details for us on this website.

To have the closer look at the itinerary, visit our tour: Heavenly Danang Bana Hills and Golden Bridge 5 Days

March 26, 2020March 27, 2020

3 Days In Hanoi and Halong Bay: Explore The Beauty of Northern Vietnam

Halong Bay - 3 days in hanoi and halong bay

Not only is the region home to the capital city, but Northern Vietnam is also an outstanding destination. You can immerse in the stunning beauty of turquoise seas, dazzling rice terraces, and divergent cultures. Hanoi and Halong Bay are the unrivaled treasure to explore during your 3-day itinerary in Northern.

Coming up with local experiences in 3 days in Hanoi and Halong Bay seems to be difficult. You do not need to worry, our handy travel guide will be useful for your trip. So, are you ready to explore Northern Vietnam known as a true adventure? Check it out now!

A Glimpse of Your 3-day Itinerary in Hanoi and Halong Bay

Hanoi and Halong Bay are the must-visit destinations in Northern Vietnam. The advisable time to visit two places is in the Spring (from March to May) because of pleasant weather, no rain, and no cloudy sky. Here is a brief of your trip in Hanoi and Halong in 3 days:

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival and discover the ancient capital city
Day 2: Explore Halong Bay – Bai Tu Long on your cruise
Day 3: Relax on Halong bay and come back to Hanoi city

A Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Start off your first adventure in Hanoi city

Arrival at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi. After a short break, we will take a cyclo tour around the old town.

1. Wander around Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake

Located near to Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old Quarter is one of the most attractive cultural and historical attractions in Hanoi. Getting lost in Hanoi Old Quarter on your one-hour cyclo tour is the best way to enjoy the bustle and hustle atmosphere here. Starting from the Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, you can watch the old-styled houses hidden in a row of colorful shops.

During the 15th century, there are a total of 76 streets (instead of the current 36 streets), in which each street name represents the name of the product the guild was specialized in. The long and narrow buildings called tube houses became a familiar image in the Old Quarter because taxes were imposed based on the width of their storefront. The bustling exchanging activities in markets and craft guilds take place in the east of the city. Also, the craft and agricultural village lies on the north and west of Hanoi city.

2. Enjoy the authentic tastes of Hanoi food

What’s more, you will round-eye with surprise by the fact that there is a whole range of products and dishes you can discover without planning in advance. One day is not enough for culinary exploration but our incentive food list can give you the most wonderful taste buds.

* Vietnamese Noodle (Pho)

Firstly, the melt-in-your-mouth flavor with a reasonable price (about $2) of Vietnamese noodles will make you full all day.

Recommend:
– Pho Bat Dan – 49 Bat Dan street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District
– Pho Lam – 7 Nam Ngu Street, Cua Nam Ward, Hoan Kiem District

*, Grilled & Fried Fish with Rice Noodles (Cha ca)

Cha Ca involves pan-fried chunks of meaty, fatty skinned fish, turmeric, dill, peanuts, shrimp paste, and rice noodles.

Recommend:
– Cha Ca La Vong – 84 Tran Quoc Toan Street, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District

*, Grilled Pork & Noodles (Bun Cha)

Lastly, bun cha is one of the national dishes in Vietnam. Do not forget to add fried spring rolls to your portion in order to fill your stomach with your unique local taste.

Recommend:
– Bun Cha Hang Quat – 74 Hang Quat Street, Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District
– Bun Cha Huong Lien – 24 Le Van Huu street, Phan Chu Trinh Ward, Hai Ba Trung District

>> Fun Fact: Bun Cha is famous in the world when Anthony Bourdain and Barack Obama sat on little chairs to enjoy at Bún Chả Hương Liên.

3. Watch the cultural show “My Village” in Hanoi Opera House

Constructed in 1911, it is historical and cultural evidence of Vietnam under the ruling French. It is also the biggest theatre in Vietnam where is more appreciated than the theater in France. Specially, A wide range of important musical performances takes place in this French architectural landmark.

Specifically, this show offers you a deep insight into the traditional village life displaying through the new-circus approach. The bamboo trunk is the main acting tool throughout Lang Toi (My Village) with the skillful artists which create the acrobatics, breathtaking juggling, and graceful contortion. Additionally, this stage is combined with more than 20 different traditional Vietnamese instruments.

Address: No.01 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.

4. Go sightseeing in the historical landmarks in the middle of Hanoi

*, Ngoc Son Temple

First of all, you will impress with the red wooden bridge (The Huc Bridge) connected with the mainland. Appeared more than 1000 years, this temple is dedicated to the national hero, Tran Hung Dao, who defeated the Mongols in the 13th century. Ngoc Son Temple is also called “Lake of the Returned Sword”. Specifically, it attached to the famous Vietnamese legend of “magical sword” which helped an emperor defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty.

Inside this temple, you admire the traditional architecture of Vietnam pagodas. There is a wide range of large bronze Buddha statues, many ceramic artifacts, and a huge turtle found in the lake weighing apparently 250kg. Especially, it is also an ideal destination for you to rest and enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake.

*, Hoa Lo Prison ‘The Hanoi Hilton’

Known as Maison Centrale, Hoa Lo Prison was constructed during the long struggle of the French between 1886 to 1901. This place is a historical symbol of the Vietnamese patriots’ will and sacrifice for national independence. Furthermore, it also reminds the sufferings of Vietnamese revolutionaries in the 20th century.

You will watch the frightful French guillotine that is used to behead Vietnamese revolutionaries during the American War. The artifacts, the cramped confinement cells are clear evidence of hideous treatment for prisoners during the war. All you see in the current Hoa Lo Prison is just the small part of this complex because the majority of the prison was destroyed to build the luxurious complex – Hanoi Towers.

*, Van Mieu (Temple of Literature)

Near the Presidential palace and Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, the temple of Literature is the first university in Vietnam dedicated to Confucius, scholars, and sages. What’s more, this ancient temple offers traditional-style Vietnamese architecture, from the Well of Heavenly Clarity to pavilions, courtyards.

Established from the Ly and Tran dynasties, you will explore historic buildings where thousands of doctors graduated and contributed highly to the education and literature. Their name had been engraved on a stone stele which can be found on the top of the stone turtles.

*, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the most visited destinations you cannot ignore when coming to Hanoi. This huge monumental marble edifice is the final resting place of Vietnamese leader, Ho Chi Minh, who declared the independence of Vietnam.

Vietnamese people call him the Great Father of the country. A tour around Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum only lasts for 1.5 hours, which gives you many historical secrets of Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

5. Have a nightlife on the Walking Street

Your Hanoi nightlife will not be complete without drinking beer on the sidewalk on Ta Hien Street or join in street activities with local people.

It only opens on the weekend (from Friday nights to Sunday nights). Take a short walk along the street, you can immerse in many street art performances and traditional games.

Day 2: Explore the natural wonder Halong Bay on your cruise

Halong Bay – “Descending Dragon Bay” has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1994 and 2000. According to the legend, if Halong Bay is the Mother Dragon then Bai Tu Long Bay is the Child Dragon. Bai Tu Long is more primitive and pristine, with the luxury of having fewer tourists cruising around.

*, How to get to Halong Bay:

About 125km from Hanoi, it takes 2-2.5 hours to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay. There is a wide range of transportations you can use to go to Halong Bay such as a local bus, motorbike, private car, train, or waterways.

Taking a Halong Cruise is nice to admire the majestic beauty of limestone islands on 434 sq km of green-emerald sea. With a 3-day itinerary in Hanoi and Halong Bay, we recommend you to choose a one-night cruise.

Route	Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Island – Ha Long Bay (2D1N or longer)	Halong Bay – Bai Tu Long Bay (2D1N or longer)	Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay – Bai Tu Long Bay (3D2N or longer)
Port	Got Ferry Terminal (Cat Hai, Hai Phong)	Hon Gai International Harbor (Halong City)	Hon Gai International Harbor
Cruises Departing	Paloma cruise, Lan Ha Legend cruise, Emerald cruise	Dragon Pearl Junk, White Dolphin cruise, Huong Hai Sealife, Royal Wing, Dragon Legend, Swan Cruise and more	Au Co, White Dolphin cruise, Royal Wing, Dragon Legend, Swan Cruise and more
Facility	Hotel Style (Sea-view rooms with private bathrooms, spa, gym)	Hotel Style (Sea-view rooms with private bathrooms, spa, gym)	Hotel Style (Sea-view rooms with private bathrooms, spa, gym)
Type of Trips	Private/Shared Cruise	Private/Shared Cruise	Private/Shared Cruise
Type of Boats	Classic Wooden Junk / Modern Luxury Cruise	Classic Wooden Junk / Modern Luxury Cruise	Classic Wooden Junk / Modern Luxury Cruise
Capacity	1-40 cabins	1-40 cabins	1-40 cabins
Activities	Cave visiting Beach & inland activities Kayaking Floating village Fishing	Cave visiting Beach activities Kayaking Floating village Fishing	Cave visiting Beach & inland activities Kayaking Floating village Fishing BBQ

1. Marvel at the pristine and unspoiled beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay

Compared to Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long is more pristine and less-touristy, which is your ideal off-the-beaten-track destination that attracts many adventures recently.

To be specific, what makes Bai Tu Long special is the majestic nature of karsts and limestone mountains rising from the water. The route to Bai Tu Long is quite long with lesser attractions for various activities. However, you can enjoy the fresh air with the tranquil mode throughout your trip.

2. Get the heavenly sight from Thien Canh Son Cave

Situated in the tranquil region of Bai Tu Long Bay, you must climb up 60 steps to enter the cave. Opposite to the unassuming entrance, you will be round-eye with surprise by what is held within. It consists of three main caverns in which each strewn is filled with ethereal stalactites and stalagmites.

You’ll hear about the formation of Thien Canh Son cave as well as the special structure attached to recognizable objects such as lotus flower, a baby elephant. So, it is a good chance for extending your imagination and sense of humor. After finishing your exploration tour, it is nice to step back out into daylight and take some shots.

3. Kayaking on Cong Do Island

According to the National Geographic Adventures Magazine, Halong Bay is one of the top 25 kayaking destinations in the World. Many archaeologists prove that Cong Do Island had been a transit point of goods in the system of Van Don Commercial Port.

Located about 25km away from Bai Chay Wharf, Cong Do Island covers an area of nearly 23.4 sq km that is full of pristine coral reef and tropical forests. With its various winding hollows, it is perfect for your kayaking activity or trekking. Scuba diving is expected to develop in this area.

4. Make “spring rolls” and enjoy the evening activities

Nextly, you take part in one of the most refreshing travel experiences – the night squid fishing. The best time to catch the big-sized squids is from October and lasts till January of the next year, specifically on nights without the moon. However, it also depends on natural conditions and your luck. Do not worry and ask the local experienced fishers, they will help you.

Last but not least, enjoying fresh squids with your family and friends is a reward for your hard work. We make sure that you will love the fancy feeling of the ink line exploding in your mouth. Moreover, you also gaze at the seawater surface sparkling with lights at night.

Day 3: Learn about the traditional fishing village & Come back to Hanoi

1. Watch amazing dawn on Bai Tu Long Bay

Participating in Tai Chi sessions is the best way to start your new day in Halong Bay. It is a martial art with the combination of breathing and slow movements, which helps you to refresh your body and soul, reduce stress as well as improve balance. Additionally, you can breathe the fresh air and witness the amazing dawn of the bay.

After that, you enjoy your breakfast with Vietnamese specialties including Vietnamese noodles, baguette, and coffee.

2. Visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village

You want to wander through the floating villages and understand about the traditional village life of fishermen here, Vung Vieng Fishing Village is your must-try destination. Located 24km from the mainland, more than 160 residents live in Vung Vieng Fishing Village still maintaining traditional features of fishing communities in Halong Bay.

A trip to visit these villages you will gain a deep insight into their simple local lifestyle. They earn from fishing and a bit of traveling. After that, local fishermen will teach you how to catch fishes by using the fishing net as well as control the fishing rod. Experience one day as a real fisherman, why not? Sounds great!

Extend your trip to Ninh Binh or Sapa

If you can spend more time in Northern Vietnam, setting up your trip for the following day is a good idea. Therefore, you can refer more with our best tour as below:

1. Hanoi- Halong – Sapa – 7 Days

About 100km south of Hanoi, “Halong Bay on land” is surrounded by karst limestone cliffs and endless golden rice fields. This legendary land is famous in the world because of historical secrets and a massive system of pagodas.

2. Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh Tour – 4 Days

In addition, Sapa town is another attractive spot with the poetic natural beauty with the diverse culture of the highland tribe groups.

July 5, 2019July 22, 2019

Things to do in Hanoi for a week – Suggested One week Itinerary in Hanoi

Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam has so many things to offer, from cultural experience to tasteful streetfood, to stunning landscape. There are many unforgettable experience awaiting you to explore. In the article, we will help you find out what’s the best things to do in Hanoi in a week and some suggested itineraries for you to choose.

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What to do in Hanoi for 4 days

5 Best tour packages for 7 days in Vietnam

Option 1: Hanoi – Halong – Sapa 7 days

Best for: Suitable for all kind of visitors: family, couples, etc. It is easiest itineray for one week in Hanoi yet including the most desired destination in the North of Vietnam.
Style: Classic
Best in : May/ September, November to March
Brief itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

Explore Hanoi Old Quarter – Hanoi Ancient House – Enjoy Hanoi Streetfood

Day 2: Hanoi city Tour

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – One Pillar Pagoda – Temple of Literature – Museum of Ethnology – Hanoi Puppet Show or Hanoi Foody Tour by motobike

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay by shuttle bus – overnight in Halong

After having breakfast and checking out, we were picked up by a shuttle to head over to the cruise centre, head to Halong Bay by shuttle bus.

Embarking on a 2D1N cruise tour, we travelled towards Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rock formations surrounding us were a truly spectacular sight, and everyone got on the cruise’s upper deck to snap photos as keepsakes.

Allow your eyes to swim through the azure waters of this magical place, where thousands of sculpted limestone and islands rise from the water like gigantic teeth of dragons.

Enjoys Sunset party while our cruise sailing to the overnight anchorage. In the evening, free time for joining games, you may also try your luck with squid fishing.

For Halong Bay cruise, you can either choose Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay, Bai Tu Long route if you want to visit less-touristy places yet wonderful.

Day 4: Halong Bay to Hanoi by Shuttle bus – Night Train to Sapa

After a night’s sleep swaying with the ocean’s waves, a pearl farm, where the farmers extracted pearls from oysters to crafted into jewellery. This was followed by a Vietnamese spring roll making class back at the cruise. On a side note, I find a one-day cruise to be sufficient for seeing the wonders of Ha Long Bay.

Back to Hanoi around 3pm in the afternoon and settle at a coffee house in Hanoi Old Quarter.

In the evening, catch a night train or bus to Sapa.

Day 5: Sapa – Ta Van Village

If you catch a night train, you will wake up in Lao Cai station around 5:30am, then hop on a bus or hire taxi to drive up to Sapa about 30 minutes.

Visit Ta Van Village. Ta Van village is hidden in the foggy cloud, far away from Sapa busy streets. All its natural beauty are well reserved by over 110 households living in this village. Though you can definitely to get there and back in a day, many choose to stay overnight at the homestay in Ta Van village to fully experience a day with the minorities groups culture other than H’mong, one of the most popular minorities group in Sapa region.

This afternoon, l explore some of the neighboring villages on foot, passing through picturesque scenery as you walk. Visits between May and October coincide with the planting and harvesting season, a chance to see local farmers in action.

Stunning Golden Terraced Field in May/ October

Overnight in Sapa

Day 6: Sapa – Hanoi

Day 7: Hanoi Departure

Option 2: Hanoi – Puluong – Ninh Binh – Halong – Hanoi

Style: Mix of classic and adventure/ off-the beaten-path
Best in : May/ September, November to March
Brief itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi arrival
Day 2: Hanoi full day city tour
Day 3: Hanoi – Pu Luong

Remote, rustic and supremely beautiful, Pu Luong might be one of the last places in Vietnam where you can truly unplug. Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Khu bảo tồn Thiên nhiên Pù Luông) was established in 1999 to protect the area’s biodiversity. Inside the reserve, you’ll find a mix of pristine forest and cultivated rice terraces. It’s a perfect landscape for trekking, and multi-day hikes are a favourite activity.

Day 4: Pu Luong – Trang An – Mua Caves

Day 5: Ninh Binh – Ha Long overnight cruise

Day 6: Ha Long – Hanoi

Day 7: Hanoi Departure

Option 4: Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Perfume Pagoda – Halong Bay – Bat Trang Ceramic – Hanoi Departure

Style: Family, culture
Best in :
Brief itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi arrival
Day 2: Hanoi city tour
Day 3: Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Trang An – Hanoi
Day 4: Hanoi – Huong Perfume Pagoda – Hanoi
Day 5: Hanoi – Halong bay – Hanoi
Day 6: Hanoi – Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Day 7: Depart Hanoi

Bat Trang Ceramic Village is a 14th century porcelain and pottery village near Hanoi, housing local artisans who combine both traditional and modern techniques to create beautiful porcelain artworks. Not only are you able to purchase some of the finest handmade ceramic products in Vietnam, you can also see them made right before your eyes during your visit.

Chrilden learn to make pottery in Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Huong Perfume Pagoda is a complex of temples scattering from the foot to the peak of Huong Tich Mountain is one of the alluring spiritual tourist attractions in Hanoi.

Option 5: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Sapa – Can Cau Market – Gian Ta Phin – Mu Cang Trai

Best in May and September

Day 1 : Hanoi Arrival
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Day 3 Hanoi – Ninh Binh -Night train to Sapa
Day 4: Sapa – Can Cau Market
Day 5: Sapa – Ban Khoang – Giang Ta Phin
Day 6: Sapa – La Pan Tan – Mu Cang Chai
Day 7: Mu Cang Chai Trekking – Mam Xoi – Hanoi

Mu Cang Chai Vietnam is one of the most amazing landscapes of rice-terraced fields in Vietnam.

Mu Cang Chai is famous for the stretch of hazardous roads spreading out for tens kilometers of infinite and primeval landscapes, grandiose ranges of mountains and the peaceful and poetic picture of ethnics’ houses covered by terrace fields.

Can cau market is remarkable market where Hmong, Tay and Ha Ninh ethic people exchanging goods for their daily life. The market is organized on a high land with lush forests mingling wonderful wavy terraces from afar. Here, tourists will find easy to catch a colorful upland fair in the costume of young girls of Hoa (Chinese) Hmong, Tay or Ha Nhi ethnic groups. Exploring Can Cau Market is one of things to do in Sapatourism. Going to Can Cau Market in Sapa travel, tourists have a chance to much more soak up the vivid upland fair; simultaneously, ascertain about the daily life of the locals. The market usually held on every Saturday and holidays during the year.

Tips for things to do in Hanoi for one week

Hanoi is an extremely crowded city, so traversing using cars is still a good choice but not the optimal one. For traveling in the city, some of the best choices would be bicycle, motorbike, or Xe Om (motorbike-taxi). With the appearance of Grab (Uber for motorbikes) getting around the city will be much easier for tourists.

June 21, 2019December 25, 2019

What to do in Danang in 5 Days? – Da Nang Itinerary, Travel Guide

The central part of Vietnam where the cities of Hoi An, Hue and Da Nang are located, is considered to be one of the main touristic centers of the country. The region contains a diversity of attractions ranging from a UNESCO World Heritage town to archeological sites and even Vietnam’s former imperial capital. For outdoorsy types, the area also has plenty to offer in terms of beaches and you can find plenty of award-winning luxury resorts here. The world’s largest cave – Hang Son Doong – can also be found in the region.

If you are visiting Da Nang, Hoi An and Hue and thinking how long you need to spend in the area, I would suggest you go for 5 days / 4 nights minimally. The three cities are accessible from each other to be day trip destinations but I would suggest spending at least a night per city to really appreciate the distinct vibe in each place.

Where you start really depends on your personal preference and where you are coming from. During my trip to Central Vietnam, I arrived via Da Nang International Airport and headed to Hue right away as it was the farthest of the three cities. From Da Nang, Hue is around a 2 hour drive.

Day 1: Danang – Marble Mountain – Hue City

Upon on arrival on Da Nang Airport, from here, you can head straight to visit Marble mountain. The five mountains consist of rock outcrops that are made of marble. Each mountain is said to represent a natural element and is named accordingly to Water, Wood, Fire, Gold and Earth. The largest, Water, has a number of grottos and caves.

After visiting Marble Mountains, you will leave Da nang to Hue city.
Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at a lovely hotel in Hue.

Overnight in Hue.

Day 2: Hue city Tour – Hoi An

Visit the Royal Palace which has three perimeters of rampart, namely from outside to inside: Kinh Thanh (Capital Citadel), Hoang Thanh (Royal Citadel) and Tu Cam Thanh (Forbidden Citadel)

Capital Citadel: This construction started in 1805 under the reign of Emperor Gia Long and completed in 1832 under the reign of Emperor Ming Mang.
Royal Citadel: The Imperial City is located in the center of the Citadel where established highest offices of Viet Nam’s feudalism and sanctums honoring the cult of decreased Emperors.
Forbidden Citadel: Located inside the Imperial City, behind the Throne Palace, the Forbidden Purple City is reserved for Emperor and his family.

Continue to visit the tomb of King Khai Dinh which is located in Chau Chu Mountain near Hue in Vietnam. It was built from 1920 to 1931 taking 11 years to complete. In comparison with those of the preceding emperors, Khai Dinh’s tomb is much smaller in surface but it is very elaborate

Enjoy a boat trip to Thien Mu pagoda, an ancient pagoda in Hue city. Its pagoda has seven storeys and is the tallest one in Vietnam. The temple is often the subject of folk rhymes about Hue, such is its iconic status and association with the city. It is regarded as the unofficial symbol of the former imperial capital.

After that, transfer to Hoi An and enjoy Hoi An – Hoi An is very beautiful city at night. Check out things to do in Hoi An at night here

Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 3: My Son Sanctuary – Hoi An

Visit My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu Temples onstructed between the 4th and the 14th century AD by the kings of Champa The My Son temple complex is regarded one of the foremost Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia and is the foremost heritage site of this nature in Vietnam. It is often compared with other historical temple complexes in Southeast Asia, such as Borobudur of Java in Indonesia, Angkor Wat of Cambodia, Bagan of Myanmar and Ayutthava of Thailand. As of 1999, My Son Sanctuary has been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

In the afternoon, take a walking tour around this enchanting port town of Hoi an, follow the narrow lanes lined with centuries-old houses influenced by Chinese, Japanese, French and European architectures and visit its numerous places of interest: the 400-year old Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Halls, the Tan Ky old house, the local market …

Japanese Covered Bridge dated back to the 18th century and is a beautiful historical piece of Japanese architecture. It is claimed that it was created by the Japanese then living in Hoi An as a way to reach the Chinese quarter across the water.
Phuc Kien Assembly Halls was built around 1690 and functions as a traditional assembly hall for the Chinese ethnic group from Fujian, China to socialize, but later was transformed into a temple dedicated to their deity named Thien Hau – the goddess of sea who protects sailors from danger.
Tan Ky old house is an almost perfect example of an 18th merchant’s residence in this major commercial port town.

Back to Danang and overnight in Danang.

Day 4: Bana Hill- Golden Bridge

Start our trip to Ba Na Hills, a hill station and resort located in the Truong Son Mountain west of the city of Danang. The station, advertised as “the Dalat of Danang province” by local tourism authorities, was founded in 1919 by French colonists. A trip on cable car will offer you a chance to admire the panorama of Ba Na Hills, spring stream, Danang city and Danang coast from your cabin at the height of 1,487 metres above sea level. Then explore the grandeur of the Golden Bridge and witness the colossal hands stretching out the skies

During your time on the mountain, enjoy a visit to:

The Le Jardin with the relics of the French, such as the force of the French horse, nearly 100-year-old grapefruit trees and traces of ancient villas. Especially Debay cellar, wine cellar was built by the French in 1923, spent nearly a century, they still retain cellar wild, mysterious, is the work of the French single remaining fairly intact Ba Na.
Linh Ung Pagoda, located on the peak of Ba Na Mountain at the height of 1.400 meters, was officially inaugurated on the 5th of March, 2004. Belonging to the Mahayana branch, the pagoda’s architecture is similar to the Tam Thai’s pagoda with a large stone-paved yard and a special pine tree with three different kinds of leaves in front of the temple. The Linh Ung Pagoda is not only built to preserve the spiritual values and ritual implements, but it is also an excellent tourist attraction because of its arrangement, surrounding landscape and architecture which boasts traditional marble carvings and animal statues.

You can also feel your interests with a lot of pretty villas, newly built hotels, and bungalows here. Each one has its own flower garden with many types of aristocratic flower that Frenchmen left during the 50 past years.

Free for joining games in Fantasy Park – the third biggest indoor games zone in Vietnam.

You can book for Bana Hills 1 Day Tour here

Heading back to Danang center around 5-6 pm. If it is Saturday or Sunday, you can enjoy the s the longest bridge in Vietnam – Dragon Bridge breathing fire or spit water from 21:00 onwards. This is one of the most exciting experience everyone should have once in Danang. More things to do in Danang at night here

Overnight in Danang

Day 5: Han Market

Heading to Han Market for souvenir gifts. Han Market is the oldest and biggest market in Da Nang, having been in operation since the French occupancy in the 1940s. This local market is set within a two-story building at the grand intersection of Tran Phu Street, Bach Dang Street, Hung Vuong Street, and Tran Hung Dao Street, where you can find hundreds of stalls selling an array of local produce, handicrafts, T-shirts, and accessories.

Recommend tour: Private Customizable tour Danang – Hue – Hoi An with Bana Hils 5 days – from US$425/pax

March 14, 2019November 11, 2019

How to Spend 4 Days in Hanoi

You are spending 96 hours in the beautiful capital of Vietnam yet have no ideas what to do in Hanoi for 4 days? Worry no longer, we’ll help you with the planning to create the best Hanoi itinerary for four days. In this article, you’ll learn not only all the best things to do in Hanoi but also the itinerary, map and day trips from Hanoi. Continue reading “How to Spend 4 Days in Hanoi”

February 12, 2019February 1, 2020

Top Destinations and Things to do in Northern Vietnam You Can’t Miss (+ Map & Itinerary)

There are many reasons for Northern Vietnam to be your destination of a lifetime. With a wide range of diversity in the landscape as well as in culture authenticity, Northern Vietnam has everything to offer in any time of year. Are you ready to discover the place known as a destination for true travelers? We’ll show you all the best places to visit, things to do, accompanied by a comprehensive itinerary and detail map. Continue reading “Top Destinations and Things to do in Northern Vietnam You Can’t Miss (+ Map & Itinerary)”

January 23, 2019January 10, 2020

How many days you need to travel Vietnam and Cambodia?

If you’re looking for authentic experience including breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and savory tropical fruits, then it cannot go wrong with Vietnam and Cambodia – the two paradises in Southeast Asia, promising you a vacation like nowhere else. The only question left is how many day for Vietnam and Cambodia. We’ll help you find the most suitable answer for you, together with a comprehensive collection of the best places to visit and what to do in Vietnam and Cambodia. Continue reading “How many days you need to travel Vietnam and Cambodia?”