Highlights of Hanoi

Start at 08:30AM for a full-day exploration of Hanoi. First visit the renowned Temple of Literature and the Quoc Tu Giam—Vietnam's first university, was founded within the temple to educate the royal family, mandarins, and elite members for an impressive 800 years.

Afterward, you can choose between museum options (to be decided on the tour day):

Option 1:Vietnam Women’s Museum. This highly regarded museum showcases the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam and highlights the vital role women play in society.

Option 2:Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays). A must-visit for those interested in Vietnam's cultural diversity, this museum features a vast array of interactive exhibits representing the 54 ethnic groups of the country.

Option 3: Hoa Lo Museum - The "POWS" Known as the "Hanoi Hilton", this historic site was built by the French and served during both the French colonial period and the Vietnam War. It offers documentaries of Vietnamese history in 20-21 centuaries. 

Following your museum visit, enjoy your lunch.

Once refreshed, head to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. This fascinating site involves considerable walking, so be prepared (note that the Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, as well as every afternoon and annually from June 12th to August 14th).

Continue on foot past the Mausoleum (viewed from the outside) to learn about the life and legacy of the nation’s founder. Then, visit the Presidental Palace and the 'house on stilts' where 'Bac Ho' lived from 1958 to 1969 (closed on Mondays and Fridays). Take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful botanical garden, concluding at the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique symbol of Hanoi built in 1049.

Then enjoy some coffee at Train Street. The century-old train tracks that run through the heart of Hanoi’s Old Town have recently transformed into an intriguing attraction known as Hanoi Train Street, especially popular among travelers and foreigners. Sitting at a café adjacent to the railway and observing the daily lives of local residents can be somewhat risky, yet it continues to draw many curious visitors eager for the experience.
In the mid to late afternoon, explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter on the cyclo. This labyrinth of alleyways is filled with hidden gems, offering a glimpse into local life in the ‘36 guilds’ as you navigate the bustling streets.

To wrap up the day, travel back to the 11th century with an enchanting performance of the ancient art of water puppetry at the famous Water Puppet Theater.

After this captivating introduction to Hanoi’s highlights, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel.