Full Day in Charming and Historic Hanoi (Private tour)

Today’s tour begins at 08:00. Set off on a full-day guided tour of Hanoi. Begin with a visit to West Lake to admire the sixth-century Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda.

Next up is a short drive to visit to the famed Temple of Literature. Wander around this incredible compound which was constructed in 1076. Become fascinated with the stories of the building and get a glimpse of the past when it served as a university and temple.

Afterward, head over to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (close on Monday). Here, browse informative exhibitions displaying artefacts and infographics that portray the remarkable diversity of Vietnam’s ethnic communities. Meanwhile, take a look at view traditional costumes on display which represent each of the ethnic groups. As an alternative to the Ethnology Museum, visit the highly-acclaimed Vietnamese Women’s Museum.

The museum is located near Hoan Kiem Lake and offers wonderful insight into the lives and heritage of Vietnamese women. Learn historic and modern-day traditions centered around births, weddings, motherhood, spirituality and more.

After lunch, visit Ho Chi Minh complex and see the famous Mausoleum from a viewing point.

(Note: it is closed Monday & Friday weekly)

Then, take a short walk to Ho Chi Minh’s former house (closed on Monday Afternoon). Built on stilts, this was where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 to 1969 as he orchestrated the movement that eventually lead to Vietnam’s independence. Walk around the serene grounds while learning about Ho Chi Minh’s life and legacy.

There is an option to take a tour of the nearby One Pillar Pagoda. Built in 1049, it’s one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples.

At the end of the afternoon, embark on a walking tour through Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter. This area of 36 narrow streets is a lively place to walk around while seeing and learning about Vietnam’s traditional ways of life. Continue through the busy Hang Be Market and around Hoan Kiem Lake. Snap photos and chat with the locals on the way.

Finish the day at the water puppet theatre. Watch an entertaining live performance of this unique northern Vietnamese art form, a great way to end the tour of Hanoi. (L)

Time: 08:00 – 17:00

Departure: Daily
*If travelers would like to visit inside Mausoleum; please discuss on spot with tour guide to change itinerary arrangement