3-Day Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay Adventure

Dreaming of Vietnam but only have a few days to explore? You’re not alone! Vietnam tourism offers unforgettable experiences—from bustling Hanoi streets to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay. A short 3-day Vietnam itinerary can help you enjoy adventure, culture, and relaxation without feeling rushed. Whether you prefer budget-friendly travel, mid-range comfort, or luxury indulgence, this guide shows you how to make the most of northern Vietnam in just 72 hours. Let’s dive in.

Vietnam Travel Costs 2025: Budget, Mid-Range & Luxury Options

Category	Budget (per person)	Mid-range (per person)	Luxury (per person)
Accommodation (per night)	400,000–800,000 VND (₹1,280–₹2,560) – hostel/homestay	1,000,000–2,000,000 VND (₹3,200–₹6,400) – 3–4 star hotel	3,500,000–7,000,000 VND (₹11,200–₹22,400) – luxury hotel or cruise cabin
Food (per day)	150,000–300,000 VND (₹480–₹960) – street food, local cafes	400,000–700,000 VND (₹1,280–₹2,240) – restaurants, local dishes	1,000,000–2,500,000 VND (₹3,200–₹8,000) – fine dining, seafood
Local Transport (per day)	50,000–100,000 VND (₹160–₹320) – buses, taxis	150,000–300,000 VND (₹480–₹960) – taxis, ride-hailing	500,000–1,000,000 VND (₹1,600–₹3,200) – private cars
Intercity Travel (Hanoi–Ha Long)	200,000–400,000 VND (₹640–₹1,280) – shuttle bus	1,000,000–2,000,000 VND (₹3,200–₹6,400) – private car	3,000,000 VND (₹9,600) – seaplane

3-Day Vietnam Itinerary 2025: Hanoi & Ha Long Bay

DAY 1: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay – Cruise & First Sights

• Morning: Break into the bustling Hot Quarter of Hanoi, where you will wander through the quaint side streets, quaint coffeehouses and beautiful French colonial buildings. Then drive to Ha Long Bay by shuttle or personal vehicle (3-5 hours). To see the scene spectacularly, a seaplane will do.
• Afternoon: Cruise, have a new lunch on board and visit a legendary cave, the Sung Sot Cave. Additionally, you can go kayaking, one of the top things to do in Vietnam, through the limestone karsts, which are beautiful and spend 1-2 hours.
• Evening: Behold the sunset through your deck, enjoy dinner on the cruise, and rest with the calm water in the bay embracing you.

Total Cost (Day 1):

• Budget: 700,000 VND (₹2,240)
• Mid-range: 2,000,000 VND (₹6,400)
• Luxury: 3,500,000 VND (₹11,200)

DAY 2: Islands, Villages & Kayaking in Ha Long Bay

• Morning: Begin the day by having breakfast on board and tour Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long. Go to floating villages and see the untouched beauty. You can rent a bike and ride through Viet Hai Village to get a better insight into the local life.
• Afternoon: Go on a sailing expedition to smaller islands, climb Ti Top Island or swim in undisclosed beaches. Take a break and go kayaking to get closer to the karst formations of the bay.
• Evening: Spend the night on the cruise, and in case you want to, go night fishing or just spend time under the stars.

Total Cost (Day 2):

• Budget: 800,000 VND (₹2,560)
• Mid-range: 2,500,000 VND (₹8,000)
• Luxury: 4,000,000 VND (₹12,800)

DAY 3: Sunrise, Last Stops & Return to Hanoi

• Morning: Early in the morning, take out the Tai Chi mats and meet the day with a serene practice on the deck, and then have a relaxing brunch on the board. Stop once more at Ti Top Island or any other cave before getting off late in the morning.
• Afternoon: Go back to Hanoi (around 2-4 hours by road) or use a seaplane to get there faster. There are more streets and markets in Hanoi, which are considered the best venues for Shopping in Vietnam.
• Evening: Leave Hanoi and head home, and pick up some local street food (unless you are hungry). Pho (noodle soup) or banh mi (baguette sandwich) are both great snacks.

Total Cost (Day 3):

• Budget: 500,000 VND (₹1,600)
• Mid-range: 1,500,000 VND (₹4,800)
• Luxury: 3,000,000 VND (₹9,600)

Must-See Highlights on Your 3-Day Vietnam Itinerary

Ha Long Bay is full of iconic sights and unforgettable experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your time:

• Sung Sot Cave: The quintessential karst cave. Spend 30–60 minutes exploring its chambers. Visit in the late morning or mid-afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
• Ti Top Island: The best place to visit in Vietnam, popular for its panoramic bay views and a small beach. A short but steep hike rewards you with one of the most photographed lookouts in Vietnam. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for great lighting and fewer people.
• Kayaking in Lan Ha or Ha Long Bay: Paddle among towering limestone cliffs and enjoy the stillness you cannot experience from the deck. Most tours offer 1–2 hours for this activity.
• Viet Hai Village / Cat Ba Cycling: A half-day ride through the village offers a glimpse of authentic rural island life, perfect for travellers seeking more than just water and rocks.
• Floating Villages: Visit midday or afternoon to observe local life on the water. These visits are usually more for watching than interacting.
• Viewpoints & Short Hikes: Ti Top and Cat Ba islands have short but rewarding trails. Bring good shoes and a camera to capture stunning bay views.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam – Ha Long Bay & Hanoi

• Spring (Feb–Apr): Mild temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant scenery—perfect for cruising and sightseeing.
• Autumn (Sep–Oct): These months are the ideal time to visit Vietnam due to its pleasant weather and bright skies, which are great for kayaking and exploring Hanoi and the bay.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): These months are hot, humid, and storm-prone. Outdoor activities may be uncomfortable.
• Winter (Dec–Jan): Cooler and misty, but great for serene landscapes, but limited swimming or sunbathing.

Essential Tips for a Smooth 3-Day Vietnam Itinerary

1. Pack Smart: Clothes, a rain jacket in summer, swimwear, a quick-dry towel and water shoes are items that should be packed to keep one comfortable and safe.

2. Sun, Safety Gear: It is better to bring sunblock, a hat, sunglasses, motion sickness pills and a small first-aid kit so that the trip on the water is smooth.

3. Money and Documents: Bring small bills of VND to hand out to the extras, bring cards, check your visa status, and make sure that the travel insurance covers the cruises and activities.

4. Weather and Time of the year: Visit during the shoulder seasons between February and April and September and October when there is pleasant weather. The summer is hot and stormy; the winter is misty and picturesque.

5. Booking & Upgrades: Book cruises, transfers, and accommodation in advance. In case of a good budget, you can consider seaplanes or a personal car to have a smoother and less congested experience.

Conclusion – Make the Most of Your 3-Day Vietnam Itinerary

Short on time but craving adventure? In Vietnam, 3 days can be spent in the crowded streets of Hanoi, enjoying the traditional local cuisine, and sailing through the scenic Ha Long Bay. Rafting in between limestone cliffs, floating villages, and beautiful sunsets, all in a small, memorable package. Vietnam tourism demonstrates that a short visit can be a journey that is full of culture, sights, and memories. With smart planning, packing essentials, and booking ahead, your 3-day Vietnam itinerary promises adventure, relaxation, and experiences that will linger long after you leave. So, for a memorable adventure, Pickyourtrail is here for you! Book your Vietnam family tour packages now for a hassle-free trip.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions: 3 Day Vietnam Itinerary

1. What is the best way to spend a 3-day Vietnam itinerary?
Focus on Hanoi’s culture and Ha Long Bay’s scenic cruise. This 3-day Vietnam itinerary balances adventure and relaxation.

2. How much does a 3-day Vietnam itinerary cost?
Budget options start around 700,000 VND per day, while luxury can exceed 3,000,000 VND. Costs depend on food, transport, and accommodation.

3. When is the best time to follow a 3-day Vietnam itinerary?
Spring (Feb–Apr) and Autumn (Sep–Oct) offer mild weather. These months are perfect for sightseeing and cruising.

4. Can a 3-day Vietnam itinerary include both Hanoi and Ha Long Bay?
Yes, a 3-day Vietnam itinerary covers Hanoi’s streets and markets. It also includes Ha Long Bay’s cruise, kayaking, and islands.

5. What essential tips should I know for a 3-day Vietnam itinerary?
Pack sun protection, swimwear, and a rain jacket. Book cruises and transfers in advance for a smooth experience.