Hanoi: Cultural and Historical Exploration
Morning: Begin your day at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the resting place of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. Explore the surrounding gardens and visit the stilt house where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked. Follow this with a visit to the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple in Hanoi.
Afternoon: Head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, and admire the beautiful traditional Vietnamese architecture. The five courtyards and numerous temples provide a serene atmosphere in the bustling city. Have lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
Evening: Start your evening with a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. The scenic beauty and calm atmosphere make it a perfect place for relaxation. Then, cross the beautiful red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the lake.
Night: As night falls, immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter, known for its busy shops and markets. Try out some delicious street food like Pho or Bánh mì. Finally, round off your day with a traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century. The Thang Long Puppet Theatre is one of the most popular venues for such a performance.