Excursion Hanoi capital city discovery tour at Halong Bay

Explore the notable sites in the historical capital of Vietnam during this full-day outing.

Stretching along the banks of the Red River, Hanoi is a city of lakes, boulevards, parks, and a curious blend of colonial architecture and modern economic resurgence. Relax and enjoy the countryside during your mini-van drive to Hanoi, getting a glimpse of the scenic Red River Delta and its farming activities.

Hanoi

Depart the ship for the 2.5-hour journey with a comfort stop prior arriving in Hanoi.

With its French-colonial style buildings, tree-bordered boulevards, numerous pagodas and scenic lakes, this thousand year old city offers many attractions. With a population of roughly three and a half million, Hanoi is the country's economic, cultural and political centre. Its unique atmosphere derives from a blend of East and West, with beautiful French colonial buildings standing next to traditional houses, historical monuments and revered temples. The city's streets teem with thousands of bicycles, vying for space with cars and buses. Upon arrival, enjoy an orientation drive while heading to Hanoi's main square, which you explore on foot.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Area

The huge square is dominated by the monumental shrine containing the embalmed body of the "Father of the Country". Opposite stands the impressive former Presidential Palace and one-time residence of the French Governor. There is time for photographs before walking to Ho's garden, located behind the mausoleum. Stroll past tranquil lotus ponds to Ho's cottage, a simple stilt house resembling the style of the ethnic hill tribes. Take a look inside this humble abode, which Ho preferred to living in the palace. Nearby stands the "One Pillar Pagoda", shrouded in local legends.

Temple Of Literature

Next, drive to this ancient temple complex, a pleasant retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Founded in 1076 during the Ly Dynasty, the temple complex is the site of the country's first university and the pride of the nation. The unique entrance gate and 82 stone steles bear witness to an early high level of education at the time when the country gained independence from Chinese occupation. Walk through walled courtyards with ancient pavilions and enter the ornate main shrine dedicated to Confucius. Leaving the Temple of Literature, head to the Hanoi lunch venue for a local fare mid-day meal.

Hoa Lo Prison ("Hanoi Hilton")

Visit to H?a Lò Prison was a prison used by the French colonists in French Indochina for political prisoners, and later by North Vietnam for U.S. prisoners of war during the Vietnam War.

Encounter a touch of old Hanoi with a stop at a tiny island located in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword) and a visit to the Ngoc Son pagoda, reached by an arched footbridge. Experience the charming Old Quarter, which has survived surprisingly intact, and considered the most beautiful area of the city. Drive through the narrow streets, named for the products sold on each (Basket Street, Paper Street, Silk Street, Jewelers Street).  The crafts of the past have given way to new products, but the fascinating color and activity of the old city endures. Enjoy free time to explore on foot before meeting your guide at the appointed time and beginning the journey back to HaLong Bay and the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Red River, Hanoi's Main Square, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Pagoda, Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Hoa Lo Prison ("Hanoi Hilton")

Note

Please note:  This tour requires an extensive amount of walking, with many steps to climb. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. We suggest you wear comfortable walking shoes. The order of sites seen or visited may vary. Traffic may cause delays.  The drive to/from Halong Bay and Hanoi is approximately 2,5 hours and can be uncomfortable due to the local road conditions. Although English is very popular language in Vietnam, local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility and understanding. Guests are required to wear T-shirt/shirt that coverts their shoulders and pants that cover their knees to enter the temple, the pagoda and Ho Chi Minh house.