Hanoi Shore Excursion: Cook, Explore & Savor in a Day From Halong

Hanoi , Vietnam

Hanoi Shore Excursion: Cook, Explore & Savor in a Day From Halong

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step away from the cruise crowds and experience the vibrant soul of Hanoi. Begin with a hands-on cooking class led by a friendly local chef, starting with a market visit to select fresh ingredients. Learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes, then savor your creations alongside unlimited local wine.

In the afternoon, explore the city’s highlights with a guided tour tailored to your interests. You may visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the Mausoleum, Stilt House, Presidential Garden, and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda. Alternatively, take a relaxing rickshaw ride around Hoan Kiem Lake, passing Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple; or enjoy the lively Train Street with a drink as trains pass just inches away.

Sightseeing options may vary depending on traffic. Afterward, sit back and enjoy your return to Ha Long, arriving at your cruise with unforgettable memories of Hanoi’s culture, flavors, and charm.

Available options

JOIN-IN

Group Tour: You will join this tour with a small group (maximum 12 guests/group).<br/>Shared Transportation

PRIVATE

Private Option: Transportation in a private car.<br/>Private Cooking Class: 5-dish Cooking Class with customized menu. Free & unlimited beverages.

What's included

All ingredients and cooking equipment.

Guidance from a professional English-speaking home chef.

Hands-on experience learning how to cook four (4) iconic Vietnamese dishes.

English-speaking tour guide.

Fresh, top-grade ingredients and never-used oil to ensure hygiene and safe consumption.

Local wet market tour

All entrance and sightseeing fees.

Free digital certificate upon request.

Free & unlimited homemade local wines.

Round-trip transfer from/to Ha Long International Port.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Hanoi’s largest and most bustling indoor market, housed in a historic French colonial building. It’s a vibrant maze of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and local street food to clothing, souvenirs, and household goods, offering visitors a true taste of local life.

Come back to your venue to start the hands-on Cooking Class. You'll then learn to make classic Vietnamese dishes, mastering traditional techniques you can take home. After finishing, you'll enjoy your effort with a delicious meal and unlimited tastings of local wine.

Stop 3

The Ho Chi Minh Complex is a cultural and historical landmark in Hanoi, honoring Vietnam’s beloved leader. Visitors can admire the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, explore the simple yet symbolic Stilt House where he once lived, stroll through the tranquil Presidential Garden

Stop 4

Visit One Pillar Pagoda - a unique lotus-shaped Buddhist temple in Hanoi, built on a single stone pillar and revered as a symbol of purity, longevity, and resilience.

At Hanoi Train Street, travelers can sip coffee or tea at tiny local cafés, watch as towering trains rumble past just a few feet away, and capture striking photos of this lively, one-of-a-kind urban experience.

What's not included

Beverages not included.

Tips and personal expenses.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We'll meet you right at your cruise port, which is just 5 mins walk from your ship. We will contact you for your cruise ship after receiving booking for more pick-up details.

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.