2-Day Hanoi exploration from Halong
Experience the best of Hanoi’s rich history, culture, and local charm with our 2-Day Hanoi exploration from Halong. This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their time in the capital after an unforgettable cruise in Halong Bay. This Hanoi shore excursion is also one of the top options for guests from cruises such as ms Noordam (Holland America), Seven Seas Explorer (Regent Seven Seas Cruises), Seabourn Encore (Seabourn Cruises), Celebrity Solstice (Celebrity Cruises), etc, which stop at Halong Bay Cruise Port.
Immerse yourself in Hanoi’s unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy by visiting historic temples, learning about the city’s poignant past, and discovering traditional Vietnamese crafts. This short but comprehensive tour will take you to some of the city’s most iconic sites, ensuring a memorable and authentic experience.
Highlights of the 2-Day Hanoi Exploration
- Tran Quoc Pagoda: the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located on a serene islet on West Lake, known for its elegant architecture and peaceful ambiance. Explore the beautiful courtyards, see the ancient Bodhi tree, and admire the pagoda’s towering structure. Tran Quoc offers a perfect introduction to Hanoi’s spiritual side and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets.
- The Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first national university, built in 1070, a historical site dedicated to Confucius and honors scholars and sages of Vietnamese history. As you walk through the five courtyards, you’ll discover stunning traditional architecture, peaceful gardens, and stelae of doctors, which celebrate the country’s academic achievements. The Temple of Literature remains a symbol of Vietnam’s reverence for education and culture, making it a must-see for all visitors.
- Hoa Lo Prison Museum: originally built by the French to imprison Vietnamese political activists, the site later became infamous as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War, where American POWs were held. The museum presents a sobering look at the struggles for independence and resilience of Vietnamese revolutionaries, as well as the experiences of American prisoners. It’s an educational and emotional experience that provides a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s complex history.
- Bat Trang Pottery Village: Conclude your exploration by traveling to Bat Trang Pottery Village, located on the outskirts of Hanoi, known for its centuries-old pottery tradition, a hub for those who appreciate art and craftsmanship. Witness skilled artisans crafting beautiful ceramics by hand and try your hand at making your own piece to take home as a souvenir. The village also has a bustling market where you can buy unique pottery items, from vases and plates to decorative figurines.
Ideal Time to Travel for a 2-Day Hanoi Exploration from Halong
The best time to embark on this 2-Day Hanoi exploration from Halong is during the cooler months of September to April. During this period, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for sightseeing. You’ll be able to comfortably visit outdoor sites like Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Temple of Literature without the intense heat and humidity. Additionally, the months of March and April, as well as October and November, offer the best chances for clear skies, enhancing your experience while exploring Hanoi’s beautiful landscapes and attractions.
Photoes of 2-Day Hanoi Exploration from Ha long
 |
 |
 |
For more trips from Halong Bay Cruise Port: Explore Binh Lieu highland for 2 days 1 night or Discover Ninh Binh for 2 days 1 night.
| By Day | Transfer | Destinations | Activities | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Hanoi | Arrive in Halong Bay, transfer to Hanoi for City tour | Lunch | |
| Day 2 | Hanoi | Hanoi city tour, transfer to Halong and departure | Lunch |
Hanoi
Arrive in Halong Bay, transfer to Hanoi for City tour
Halong Bay Cruise Port-Hanoi | (L)
Morning:
- 08:00am: Pick up from outside the Lounge of Halong International Cruise Port, then depart for Hanoi.
- 11:00am: arrive in Hanoi, visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, where you may explore the beautiful courtyards, see the ancient Bodhi tree, and admire the pagoda’s towering structure. Tran Quoc offers a perfect introduction to Hanoi’s spiritual side and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets.
- 12:30am: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.
Noon:
- Walk through the bustling streets, shop for souvenirs, and explore local life.
- Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi, and visit Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island, offering scenic views and a glimpse into local legends and traditions.
- Visit the Temple of Literature: as you walk through the five courtyards, you’ll discover stunning traditional architecture, peaceful gardens, and stelae of doctors, which celebrate the country’s academic achievements. The Temple of Literature remains a symbol of Vietnam’s reverence for education and culture, making it a must-see for all visitors.
- Cyclo Ride around the French Quarter: take a leisurely ride through the French colonial streets, admiring the architecture.
- 4:30pm: check in the hotel, then free atyourleisure (enjoy a Water Puppet Show at the Thang Long Theatre).
Overnight hotel at Hanoi Old Quarter.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, is situated on a small islet on West Lake. Originally built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De, it has a history spanning over 1,500 years. Known for its tranquil setting, the pagoda features a beautiful red tower, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere, making it a spiritual haven for locals and visitors. The complex also includes a centuries-old Bodhi tree, a gift from India, symbolizing enlightenment. Tran Quoc Pagoda remains a significant cultural and religious landmark, reflecting the traditional architecture and spiritual heritage of Vietnam
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, or "Lake of the Restored Sword," is a scenic freshwater lake located in the heart of Hanoi. It is steeped in legend, named after a mythical tale in which Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to a golden turtle in its waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, the lake is a popular spot for morning walks, exercise, and relaxation. At its center is Turtle Tower, a symbol of the city. The area around Hoan Kiem Lake is lively, with cafes, shops, and traditional markets, making it a hub of cultural and social activities for locals and tourists.
Ride a cyclo around Hanoi Old Quarters
A cyclo ride through Hanoi’s Old Quarter offers a charming and immersive way to explore the city’s bustling streets and rich heritage. Seated in a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi, visitors can leisurely glide through narrow alleys lined with colonial architecture, colorful shops, and street food vendors. The ride allows travelers to soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of daily life, from vibrant markets to historical landmarks. It’s a perfect way to experience the local culture up close, with the gentle pace providing ample opportunity to observe the unique blend of old and new that characterizes this iconic part of Hanoi.
Ngoc Son temple
Ngoc Son Temple is a historic temple situated on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, accessible by the iconic red The Huc Bridge. Dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao, a national hero, along with the deity of literature and the god of medicine, the temple is a place of cultural and spiritual importance. Visitors can explore its peaceful surroundings, admire traditional Vietnamese architecture, and view ancient artifacts, including preserved remains of a giant turtle linked to the lake’s legend. Ngoc Son Temple offers a serene escape amidst the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, reflecting the city’s rich history and heritage.
San Grand Hanoi Hotel 3***
The hotel is perfectly located at No. 02 Cau Go Alley, Hoan Kiem Old Quarter. The hotel offers 54 guestrooms...
Hanoi
Hanoi city tour, transfer to Halong and departure
Hanoi city tour – Halong, Departure | (L)
Morning:
- 8:00am: check out your hotel, transfer to Hoa Lo Prison Museum which presents a sobering look at the struggles for independence and resilience of Vietnamese revolutionaries, as well as the experiences of American prisoners. It’s an educational and emotional experience that provides a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s complex history.
- 10:00am: conclude your exploration by heading to Bat Trang Pottery Village. You may witness skilled artisans crafting beautiful ceramics by hand and try your hand at making your own piece to take home as a souvenir. The village also has a bustling market where you can buy unique pottery items, from vases and plates to decorative figurines.
- 12:00am: Have lunch with the local dish before transfer back to Halong.
4:00 pm: Transfer back and drop off at outside the Lounge of Halong Bay Cruise Port, concluding your 2-day Hanoi Exploration from Halong.
Hoa Lo Prison Museum
The museum presents a sobering look at the struggles for independence and resilience of Vietnamese revolutionaries, as well as the experiences of American prisoners. It’s an educational and emotional experience that provides a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s complex history
Bat Trang Pottery Village
You may witness skilled artisans crafting beautiful ceramics by hand and try your hand at making your own piece to take home as a souvenir. The village also has a bustling market where you can buy unique pottery items, from vases and plates to decorative figurines
No relevant information is available
Inclusions
2 lunches
Private Transportation
- Air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers (round-transfer Halong-Hanoi) and sightseeing as the itinerary.
- Cyclo ride around the French Quarter.
- Entrance Fees: All entry fees for attractions listed in the itinerary, including Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ngoc Son temple, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, Bat Trang Pottery Village.
- Guided Tour: Experienced English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
- Activities: Pottery-making experience at Bat Trang village.
Exclusions
- Accommodation: 1-night stay at a comfortable hotel in Hanoi (twin/double sharing basis).
- Entrance Fees: Water Puppet Show
- Transport to Halong & from Ha Long Bay: Flights or any transportation to Halong before the tour starts and transport from Ha Long Bay after the tour ends.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal items such as souvenirs, snacks, and additional drinks.
- Travel Insurance: Travelers are encouraged to purchase their own travel insurance.
- Tips and Gratuities: For guides, drivers, and other service staff.
- Meals Not Mentioned
- Optional Activities: Any additional activities or entrance fees not specified in the itinerary.
Complimentaties
- Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water during transfers and sightseeing.
