• Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake) - Legend has it that King Le Loi discovered a gleaming metal bar while visiting a friend, who had caught it while fishing. The King took the bar, brought it home, and forged it into a sword. Miraculously, the words “Thuan Thien” (harmonious with heaven) appeared on the blade.

Le Loi realized the sword was a divine gift and used it in battle against a neighboring country. In early 1428, after peace was achieved, he visited Thuy Quan Lake (now Hoan Kiem Lake), where a tortoise emerged from the water and demanded the sword be returned to the Dragon King. Without hesitation, the King threw the sword into the lake, and the tortoise took it and disappeared. From that moment, Thuy Quan Lake became known as Hoan Kiem Lake.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site in Hanoi, dedicated to honoring the national hero, President Ho Chi Minh. This building allows visitors to pay their respects and show gratitude to the leader who guided Vietnam to independence and reunification. Commonly referred to by locals as Uncle Ho’s Mausoleum, it reflects the warm and familiar atmosphere Ho Chi Minh was known for. Constructed between 1973 and 1975, the Mausoleum also symbolizes national unity.
• West Lake - Known both as Ho Tay and West Lake, this is the largest lake in the city, with a 15km circumference surrounded by upscale neighborhoods, including the largely expatriate Tay Ho district. The southern side along Ð Thuy Khue features seafood restaurants, while the eastern Xuan Dieu strip is lined with eateries, cafes, boutiques, and luxury hotels. The serene environment offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling Old Quarter. A pathway encircles the lake, making it ideal for cycling.
• Train Street - Hanoi’s Train Street is a popular spot for tourists who enjoy sipping coffee on the sidewalk and capturing stunning photographs.
• Temple of Literature & National University - This site is a rare example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and honors the country’s greatest scholars. Established in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, the complex is dedicated to Confucius (Khong Tu) and was the location of Vietnam’s first university (1076). Students often visit the altars to pray for good grades, and the pagodas, ponds, and gardens of the five courtyards provide picturesque settings for graduation photos. The Temple is also featured on the 100,000d note.
• Old Quarter - Pause for lunch. Relish a meal at an authentic Vietnamese local eatery. Afterward, you’ll be taken to a renowned coffee shop to try traditional Vietnamese egg coffee. Savor the taste, and let it transport you. The tour concludes with the guide dropping you off at your hotel.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Professional guide
• Fuel
• Motorbike with helmet
• Food tastings and lunch

• Gratuities
• Services not mentioned in the itinerary