For a 5 nights and 6 days trip to Vietnam, you can explore more destinations, including the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the south. Here’s a diverse itinerary that covers Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City:

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

– Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
– Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
– Rest and recover from your journey.
– In the evening, head to the Old Quarter to explore the lively streets and try delicious street food.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

– Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House.
– Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
– Have a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.
– Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country’s diverse ethnic groups.
– In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form.

Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay

– Check out from your hotel in Hanoi and depart for Halong Bay (approximately 3-4 hours’ drive).
– Arrive in Halong Bay and board a traditional Vietnamese junk boat for an overnight cruise.
– Explore the Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) and take in the breathtaking views from the Titop Island viewpoint.
– Participate in optional activities like kayaking or swimming (depending on the weather).
– Watch the sunset over the bay.
– Have a delightful dinner on board and relax under the stars.

Day 4: Halong Bay to Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

– Start your morning with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck.
– Continue to explore the beauty of Halong Bay.
– Return to the main harbor and disembark from the cruise boat.
– Transfer back to Noi Bai International Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
– Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, transfer to your hotel, and check-in.

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City Tour

– Visit the historic Reunification Palace, a significant symbol of Vietnam’s modern history.
– Explore the War Remnants Museum, offering a poignant insight into the Vietnam War.
– Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Central Post Office, beautiful French colonial architectural landmarks.
– Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying some southern Vietnamese specialties.
– Visit Ben Thanh Market for shopping and souvenirs.
– In the evening, take a relaxing stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 6: Cu Chi Tunnels and Departure

– Take a morning excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
– Return to Ho Chi Minh City and have lunch.
– Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
– Check out from your hotel and transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight.

This itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of Vietnam, from the historic and cultural sites of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the natural beauty of Halong Bay and the Cu Chi Tunnels’ historical significance. Adjust the activities and timings according to your preferences and interests for a memorable trip to Vietnam.