The Temple of Literature has a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, and this monument is one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam’s first university. In one courtyard, giant stone tortoises bear stele on their backs, listing the accomplishments of graduating scholars.

Hoan Kiem Lake (Hoan Kiem means Lake of the Returned), is a lake in the historical centre of the Hanoi capital. It is one of the major scenic spots in the city and serves as a focal point for its public life. Legend has it that King Le Loi handed a magic sword called Heaven’s Will which brought him victory in his revolt against the Chinese Ming dynasty back to the Golden Turtle God in the lake. The Tortoise Tower (Thap Rua) standing on a small island near the centre of the lake is linked to the legend.
Continue to visit the brightly painted red wooden bridge so-called The Huc (the Rising Sun bridge) which connects Hoan Kiem lake and its largest islet.

The magnificent 900-seat European-style Opera House was built in 1911. May be viewed from the outside onl – Overnight in Hanoi

– Overnight in Halong

Arrive at Tuan Chau Island. Transfer to cruise ship. Welcome drink – cruise briefing, safety instructions, check-in cabins. Depart to Halong Bay – cruise and programme commence. Enjoy lunch while the cruise sails passing by magnificent sceneries of the World Heritage site. In the afternoon, explore Sung Sot cave, hiking up and down 600 steps to the magnificent limestone formations of the biggest and most marvelous cave in Halong bay or enjoy kayaking (with supplement) around the islets. Back to the vessel and participate in cooking demonstration with cruise’s chef. Dinner on board. Overnight on board – Overnight in cabin / onboard (Vietnam)

Join an early morning Tai Chi session on the sundeck while tea, coffee and assorted pastries are being served. Relax on board or go visit Titov island. Back on board enjoy breakfast, check out and return to Tuan Chau Island. End of the program.

See a Water Puppet Show, a fantastic art form that originated in northern Vietnam, but is now best seen in Hanoi – Overnight in Hanoi

Start from your hotel, drive through the maze of bustling streets of the Old Quarter, stop to experience one of the most young local’s popular drink – lemon-tea and sunflower seeds. Continue through the Opera House, then along impressive ceramic road for Hanoi specialty – Pho Cuon. Explore a romantic Hanoi by visit West Lake then enjoy rock music performance at Cowboy Bar. Continue the party with the young Hanoian crowd in another local bar with live trendy music where you have chance to take the stage and perform yourself or listen to local musical talent performing both in Vietnamese and English showing off their unique style – Overnight in Hanoi

– Overnight in Hanoi