Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The First Taste of Vietnam
You start your journey as soon as you touch down in Hanoi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you were greeted with familiarity and also excitement at the modernization. Enjoy a smooth pickup and hotel transfer, and then the city is up to you to explore.
Your first steps in Hanoi’s Old Quarter bring you to a labyrinth of 36 historic streets, all named after the traditional craft once sold there. Silk Street, Bamboo Street, Silver Street. Hanoi is best enjoyed on foot as every turn brings a new delight.
- Hoan Kiem Lake: Another tranquil haven right in the heart of the city, and a great spot to wander.
- Ngoc Son Temple: A small yet important pagoda on a small island in the heart of the lake which can be accessed by the famous red-painted The Huc Bridge.
- Traditional Cyclo Ride: This allows you to ride around the busy streets of the Old Quarter whilst still avoiding the hustle and bustle of Hanoi’s everyday life.
Your taste of Vietnam has come, and as night falls there’s no better way than through a street food tour. You will indulge in:
- Pho Bo: The ever-world-famed noodle soup beef, a divine combination of broth-savvy, soft meat, and fresh herbs.
- Bun Cha: Delicious grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, and a tangy spring roll dipping sauce all of which have both locals and tourists salivating.
- Egg Coffee: A Hanoi specialty I did not know I wanted, but once learned, could not live without.
After a tasty introduction to the food culture of Hanoi, you head back to your hotel for some rest, preparing for the thrilling adventure ahead.
Hoan Kiem Lake (Source: canva)
Day 2: A Walk Through History – Hanoi’s Cultural Treasures
If Saigon is the economic capital of Vietnam, then Hanoi is the country’s political, historical, and cultural heart. This day is about finding its most significant landmarks, each with an important story to tell about Vietnam and its history.
The day starts with a visit to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where Vietnam’s revered leader lies. A short stroll takes you to the Presidential Palace, a stately colonial-era structure encircled by wide gardens. Just nearby, you will find:
- One Pillar Pagoda: A unique Buddhist temple built in 1049, designed to look like a lotus blossom.
- Temple of Literature: The first university in Vietnam devoted to Confucian scholars and the pursuit of learning.
A lunch break allows you to sample Hanoi’s traditional dishes, possibly a plate of cha ca (turmeric-marinated fish) or a refreshing green papaya salad.
The afternoon includes a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where interactive displays, traditional houses, and fascinating artifacts provide insight into the country’s 54 ethnic groups.
As the evening arrives, make your way to one of the most unique shows in Hanoi the Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Theater. This ancient style of puppetry, done on the water with wooden puppets, tells the stories of rural Vietnam to the accompaniment of live folk music.
After an educational day, you go back to the hotel, maybe stopping at a night market for evening shopping.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Source: canva)
Day 3: Ninh Binh – Vietnam’s Hidden Gem (Optional Day Trip)
Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination This province, a two-hour drive from Hanoi, is nicknamed “Halong Bay on Land” thanks to its juicy limestone karst formations and winding rivers.
Your day in Ninh Binh includes:
- A boat ride in Trang An: Sail through a labyrinth of caves and waterways, stopping at ancient temples and lush greenery.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda: The biggest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia with tons of huge golden statues and quiet courtyards.
- Hang Mua Viewpoint: This is a short but steep hike that offers you panoramic views of the valley below; it’s truly picture-perfect.
Afterward, you’ll return to Hanoi in the evening, with the rest of the day free to sightsee on your own, whether that involves sipping a cocktail at a rooftop bar or hunting for another tasty dish of street food.
Hang Mua (Source: canva)
Day 4: Halong Bay – A Natural Wonder of the World
No Colombia to Hanoi tour would be complete without the spectacular seascape of Halong Bay (UNESCO World Heritage site). A scenic drive from Hanoi brings you to a glamorous cruise boat that ferries you deep into the bay.
During your cruise, you will:
- Explore Sung Sot Cave: An incredible cave with massive stalactites and delicate light formations.
- Kayak through hidden lagoons: Paddle through the quietest corners of the bay, revealing pristine beauty.
- Visit Titop Island: A short walk leads to a view station with one of the most magnificent panoramas in Vietnam.
On board, enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood while cruising through emerald waters. By night, you go back to Hanoi and treasure the memories of this wonderful day.
Titop Island (Source: halongbaytours)
Day 5: Local Life and Departure
On your last day, continue to soak up some final pieces of Hanoi’s magic. A morning cyclo ride through the Old Quarter is a nice touch to bid farewell to the city as you pass local vendors cooking their morning dishes and artisans at work.
Offering a perfect last stop for budget souvenirs, silk scarves, handcrafted ceramics, or local coffee beans to take home to remind you of the vibrant kingdom, a visit to Dong Xuan Market is recommended.
After your journey, you are transported to the airport with the images, sounds, and tastes of Hanoi Tours (5,6 days) an experience that will linger in your heart well after returning home.
Dong Xuan Market (Source: whereistrond)
Colombia to Hanoi Tours – The Ultimate 6-Day Adventure
Day 5: A Sacred Journey to Perfume Pagoda
Just when you think you’ve had the best of northern Vietnam, the trip keeps on going. Leaving the busy streets of Hanoi behind, you start heading to the Perfume Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most sacred places of worship, tucked away amidst soaring karst mountains and lush forests.
You start your adventure with a boat trip down the Yen River, where mist rising from the water creates an enchanting ambiance. As your boat drifts peacefully through the still waters, you sail past quiet villages, amber rice paddies, and stunning limestone landscapes.
A short hike brings you to Thien Tru Pagoda the gateway to the sacred complex where ancient Buddhist rituals emerge before you in lively animation. But the real star here is the hike to Huong Tich Cave, often referred to as “the most beautiful cave in Vietnam.” Inside are magnificent stalactites and altars for the Buddhist deities that pilgrims light incense for and make offerings for good fortune.
After some exploring, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local riverside restaurant, before returning to Hanoi for the evening. This is no climbing tour of tourist sites it’s a spiritual journey, allowing you to get close to Vietnamese history, religion, and nature.
Perfume Pagoda (Source: vietnamtravel)
Day 6: A Relaxed Farewell to Hanoi
Your last morning in Hanoi is free to enjoy. Now is a great time to enjoy your last few moments in this remarkable city before heading home.
Depending on your preference, you can:
- Stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, collecting last-minute souvenirs from local artisans.
- For a Vietnamese coffee experience, take a seat at a small street café and observe the city wake up.
- Go for a final dose of culture at a hidden pagoda or temple.
- Walk around West Lake, the largest lake in Hanoi, where locals rise early on Tai Chi and morning walks.
With departure time looming, you are transferred back comfortably to Noi Bai International Airport, concluding your incredible Colombia to Hanoi tour.
What remains? Memories for a lifetime, belt stories, and a deep love for the magic of Vietnam.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter (Source: localvietnam)
Travel Essentials & Tips for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
Essential travel tips for those Colombians who want to visit Hanoi Tours.
Visa Requirements for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
Vietnam e-visa online application is a straightforward, simple process that can be completed in a few minutes, and approval is usually issued in a few days for Colombian travelers. Make sure to apply at least a week before you travel, and have a printed copy of the approval letter when you immigrate.
Best Time for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
- The best time to travel is Spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-November) which offer nice weather and clear skies.
- Winter (December-February) is cooler with average temperatures closer to 15°C, which can be great for exploring minus the heat.
- In summer (May-August) you should expect tropical warmth and some rain, but also audiences are smaller.
Currency & Budgeting for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
Comparing currencies? Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Small vendors prefer cash; hotels and larger restaurants take credit cards. As a rough guide:
- A bowl of pho: 50,000 VND (~2 USD)
- A local beer: 25,000 VND (~1 USD)
- Taxi rides within the city: 100,000-150,000 VND (~4-6 USD)
Packing Guide for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
Your packing list depends on the season, but essentials include:
- Warm-weather, light, breathable clothing.
- Comfortable walking shoes, because Hanoi is best discovered on foot.
- A light jacket if traveling in winter.
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for Halong Bay and Ninh Binh trips.
- A small waterproof bag for boat rides and rainy days.
Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
- A slight bow is an appropriate greeting of respect to locals.
- Wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees when visiting temples and pagodas.
- The Vietnamese are warm and hospitable a smile opens many doors here!
Safety & Travel Insurance for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
Traveling in Vietnam is generally safe, but you should always have travel insurance covering medical care, cancellations, and lost items. Watch out for street scams, and always use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab.
Why Book with Impress Travel for Your Colombia to Hanoi Tours
Having more than 15 years of experience in delivering this kind of memorable trip, Impress Travel makes sure that your Colombia to Hanoi tour is easy-going, fun, and stress-free.
What Makes Us Different?
- Expertly Crafted Itineraries: All tours are made with a Colombian audience and have just the right amount of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
- Authentic & Highly-Rated Experiences: We show you the real Vietnam, we go beyond the touristy places.
- Stress-Free Planning: We take care of all the details including visa assistance, and airport pickups, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
- Flexible & Customizable Options: Want an extra day? A private tour? A Spanish-speaking guide? We make it happen.
- 24/7 Customer Support: As they say, you can rely on us with your eyes closed, done deal!
So with thousands of travelers having a good time and recommendations for us, Imagine your stuff with Impress Travel.
Conclusion
Hanoi is not a destination, it is an unforgettable experience. Every glimpse of its ancient temples, every unique meal in its street markets, every moment near its lakes, and else in nature on a distant site is breathtaking in Hanoi.
A Colombia to Hanoi tour is the perfect third-world backpacking adventure and takes you from jungle to beach to market and back with nature, history, and local charm few places in the world can rival. Whichever you choose, whether the five-day itinerary or the additional six-day extension, you are assured a journey full of memorable moments, cultural discoveries, and stunning scenery.