How to Plan Your Hanoi Full-Day Discover Ancient Hoa Lu and Trang An Tour

Are you traveling to Hanoi and looking for a unique and exciting adventure? Consider booking the Full-Day Discover Ancient Hoa Lu and Trang An Tour! This tour takes you to see the stunning scenery of Northern Vietnam and to explore the history of the Hoa Lu capital city. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your tour and make the most of your experience.

Overview of the Experience

This full-day tour will take you from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Province, where you will visit the ancient capital city of Hoa Lu and the Trang An eco-tourism complex. You will be picked up at your hotel and transported to Hoa Lu, where you will learn about the 10th and 11th century history of Vietnam’s imperial dynasties. After lunch at a local restaurant, you will take a boat ride through the stunning Trang An grottoes, admiring the stunning scenery of karst mountains and caves.

Highlights of the Tour

– Learn about the fascinating history of Vietnam’s 10th and 11th-century dynasties at the Hoa Lu ancient capital city. – Enjoy a scenic drive through the highlands of northern Vietnam. – Take a boat ride through the stunning, lush landscape of Trang An grottoes. – Marvel at the natural beauty of Vietnam’s “Inland Ha Long” and witness 31 valleys and 50 cross-water caves.

Details of the Tour

The Full-Day Discover Ancient Hoa Lu and Trang An Tour begins with hotel pickup from your hotel in Hanoi. You will then embark on a two-hour drive to Ninh Binh Province, where you will visit the ancient capital city of Hoa Lu. The city served as the capital for 41 years during the 10th and 11th centuries, under the Dinh and Le dynasties. During your visit to Hoa Lu, you will have an opportunity to see two temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. After visiting the ancient capital, you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on a boat ride through the Trang An grottoes. The journey through the grottoes takes you through stunning scenery featuring 31 valleys and 50 cross-water caves surrounded by karst mountains. You will have the opportunity to admire the unique geology of the area while taking in the stunning landscape of lush vegetation.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the Full-Day Discover Ancient Hoa Lu and Trang An Tour is straightforward. Simply book your tour through the GetYourGuide website on this page: book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

Exploring the history and natural beauty of Vietnam’s northern landscape is an experience like no other, and the Full-Day Discover Ancient Hoa Lu and Trang An Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore it all. With this guide, you can effortlessly plan your tour and make the most of your experience. We hope you enjoy your time in Hanoi and on this incredible tour.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a beautiful city with a rich history and vibrant culture. If you are planning a trip to this charming city anytime soon, you might have a few questions in mind. Here are some frequently asked questions about Hanoi that will help you plan your trip better.

1. What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is from September to November or from March to April when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thin. The temperature during these months usually ranges from 17 to 27 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for exploring the city. However, if you want to experience the festive spirit of Hanoi, visit during the Lunar New Year, which is usually in January or February.

2. How to reach Hanoi?

Hanoi is well-connected to the world. You can reach Hanoi by air, rail, or road. The Noi Bai International Airport is the main airport connecting Hanoi to the rest of the world. You can also board a train to Hanoi from other parts of Vietnam. If you prefer to travel by road, take a bus or taxi to Hanoi.

3. What are the top attractions in Hanoi?

Hanoi is a city full of interesting sites and experiences. Some of the top attractions in Hanoi are:

Hoan Kiem Lake:

Located in the heart of the city, this lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can stroll around the lake or visit the Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the lake.

The Old Quarter:

The Old Quarter is the historic part of the city, and it’s a must-visit for anyone. It’s a maze of narrow streets, lined with ancient houses, temples, and shops.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum:

Ho Chi Minh was the founder of modern Vietnam, and his mausoleum is a popular attraction in Hanoi. Here, you can pay your respects to the great leader.

Temple of Literature:

This is the first university of Vietnam, and it’s a beautiful complex of traditional buildings and gardens.

Water Puppet Theater:

Water puppetry is a traditional art form of Vietnam. You can catch a water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.

4. What is the currency used in Hanoi?

The currency used in Hanoi is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). However, most major shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions also accept US dollars.

5. Is it safe to drink tap water in Hanoi?

No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Hanoi. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available.

6. What is the local cuisine like?

The local cuisine in Hanoi is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Some of the must-try dishes include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and cha ca (turmeric fish with noodles).

7. What are the best markets in Hanoi?

Hanoi is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of markets selling everything from souvenirs to food. Some of the best markets in Hanoi are:

Dong Xuan Market:

This is the largest market in Hanoi, and it’s a great place to buy souvenirs, clothes, and electronics.

Night Market:

This market opens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, and it’s a great place to sample local food and buy handicrafts.

Weekend Market:

This market is held every Saturday and Sunday morning at the Hang Da Galleria Mall, and it’s a great place to buy fresh produce and traditional crafts.

8. What is the nightlife like in Hanoi?

Hanoi has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some of the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Hanoi are:

Ta Hien Street:

This street is the heart of the city’s nightlife. It’s packed with bars and restaurants, and it’s a great place to meet locals and fellow travellers.

Long Bien Bridge:

The bridge offers a stunning view of the city by night, and it’s a popular spot among locals for hanging out and drinking beer.

Bia Hoi Junction:

This junction in the Old Quarter is famous for its cheap beer and lively atmosphere.

9. What are some etiquette tips for travelling to Hanoi?

When travelling to Hanoi, keep the following etiquette tips in mind:

• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s house or a temple.
• Do not point with your finger; use your entire hand.
• Try to learn a few words in Vietnamese, such as “Hello” (Xin chao) and “Thank you” (Cam on).
• Avoid discussing politics or religion with locals, as it can be a sensitive topic.
• Do not touch anyone’s head, as it’s considered disrespectful.

10. What is the best way to get around in Hanoi?

The best way to get around in Hanoi is on foot. The city is compact and easy to navigate, and walking is a great way to explore the streets and soak in the local culture. You can also take a taxi or a motorbike taxi (xe om) if you need to travel longer distances. However, be prepared for traffic jams and chaotic driving.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hanoi

If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, there are countless attractions and experiences to enjoy. Hanoi is a city of contrasts, blending its rich cultural heritage with modern amenities and a dynamic pace of life. From the historic Old Quarter streets to the lush Hoan Kiem Lake, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here’s our guide for how to spend your time as a tourist in Hanoi.

Explore the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi, home to narrow streets, ancient temples, and traditional shops selling everything from silks and spices to souvenirs and street food. Take a stroll around the neighborhood to soak up the atmosphere and get a sense of Hanoi’s past. The Old Quarter is also an excellent place to enjoy some of the city’s best street food, such as banh mi and pho.

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake is a tranquil oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The lake is surrounded by lush gardens, ancient temples, and a bustling market. Take a walk around the lake to enjoy the scenery, and visit the Ngoc Son Temple on the island in the middle of the lake.

Visit the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature, or Van Mieu, is a beautiful complex of buildings dating back to the 11th century. It was the first university in Vietnam and is dedicated to Confucius, the Chinese philosopher. The temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Hanoi’s heritage and history.

Explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex

The Ho Chi Minh Complex is a series of buildings dedicated to the Vietnamese revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. Here you can visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, as well as his residence, office, and other important sites from his life. The complex is a fascinating look at Vietnam’s modern history.

Try the Street Food

One of the best things about Hanoi is its street food scene. The city is famous for dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha, all of which are readily available from street vendors and small shops. Be adventurous and try some of the city’s lesser-known specialties, such as bun cha ca and lau.

Visit Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is the largest market in Hanoi, selling everything from clothing and shoes to electronics and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs, or just to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere.

Take a Cooking Class

If you’re interested in Vietnamese cuisine, why not take a cooking class while you’re in Hanoi? There are many options available, from street food tours to more in-depth cooking classes where you can learn to make dishes like pho and banh xeo.

Visit the Museums

Hanoi is home to many museums dedicated to art, history, and culture. Here are a few of the best:

Visit the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

The Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts is a stunning collection of Vietnamese art from the 20th century to the present day. It’s a great place to learn about the country’s artistic heritage and see some remarkable works of art.

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a fascinating look at the country’s many ethnic groups and their cultures. The museum has exhibits on everything from traditional costumes to farming techniques.

Visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum

The Vietnamese Women’s Museum is dedicated to the history and contribution of women in Vietnamese society. The museum has exhibits on everything from the role of women in the revolution to traditional family life.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Hanoi has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Here are a few of the best places to enjoy a night out:

Visit Beer Corner

Beer Corner, also known as Ta Hien Street, is a narrow street in the Old Quarter packed with bars and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a cold beer and some street food while watching the hustle and bustle of Hanoi.

Visit the Rooftop Bars

Hanoi has a number of rooftop bars with stunning views over the city. Some of the best include the Summit Lounge at the Sofitel Legend Metropole, and the Twilight Sky Bar at the Hanoi La Siesta Hotel.

Visit the Night Market

Hanoi’s Night Market is a bustling street market that takes place on the weekends. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, street food, and other local products.

Book Your Tour Now

Hanoi is a city full of life and energy, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nightlife, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this magnificent city. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to experience all that Hanoi has to offer.