Hanoi Highlights
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Port
Halong Bay, Vietnam
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$290
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 11 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Welcome to Hanoi, a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern progress. As the capital of Vietnam, it reflects Asian and French influences ingrained in daily life -- baguettes sold everywhere alongside cellophane noodles, fresh vegetables, and sticky rice.
A 2.5-hour drive to Hanoi brings you to the capital's Ba Dinh Square in the Ho Chi Minh Quarter.
Nearby, you will find the One Pillar Pagoda and step inside the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius. This serene retreat was Vietnam's first university.
After a tasty lunch, make your way to Hoa Lo Prison. Many American pilots were arrested and imprisoned here. These included the late Senator John McCain and Pete Peterson -- the first American ambassador to Vietnam after the war.
Visit a historical house at 87 Ma May Street. It was built in the late 19th century in Hanoi's Old Quarter and showcases the architecture that is typical of Hanoi's age-old residences.
In the Sword Lake area, take photos of the Ngoc Son pagoda, reached by an arched footbridge and perching on a tiny island in the middle of the lake. Hoan Kiem Lake is also home to a huge turtle species -- keep an eye out for these.
You have some free time to walk around the booming 36 Street District of Hanoi. This myriad of streets were traditionally named after the trades found there -- Tin Street, Paper Street, Silk Street. It's a brilliant glimpse of a day in the life of Old Hanoi and the people who lived here long before Vietnam made global headlines.
Please note:
Travel time to Hanoi is approximately 2.5 hours each way. Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered. Shorts and tight clothing are not allowed. Long pants or a long skirt and a full-coverage shirt are required -- a wrap is not sufficient. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Traffic can be unpredictable; your patience is greatly appreciated if a delay extends the tour duration.