Morning: Depart from Hanoi Time: Around 7:00–7:30 AM Transport: Pick-up from hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter (if on a tour) or private car/minibus Travel time: ~2 hours (100 km) First Stop: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Time: 9:30–10:30 AM Explore the remains of the ancient capital of Vietnam (10th and 11th centuries) Visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le Learn about early Vietnamese dynasties Second Stop: Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Ride Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Choose between: Trang An (UNESCO site): Known for cinematic limestone cave systems (featured in Kong: Skull Island) Tam Coc: More open, peaceful rice paddies with a similar boat experience Sit in a small rowboat paddled by locals (feet sometimes!) through caves and along the river Lunch Break Time: 1:00–2:00 PM Local buffet or set menu Try specialties like goat meat, crispy rice, and mountain snails

Afternoon: Biking (Optional) Time: 2:00–3:00 PM Hop on a bike and pedal through quiet village lanes, surrounded by rice paddies and limestone peaks. Tip: The bike ride is flat and leisurely—great for soaking in local life. Last Stop: Mua Cave (Hang Múa) Time: 3:30–4:30 PM The highlight for many! Climb ~500 stone steps to the peak of Mua Cave. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Tam Coc, rice fields, and the river snaking through the valley. There’s also a dragon statue and a small temple at the summit. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, take breaks on the way up, and bring water. The climb is steep but worth it! Return to Hanoi Time: Depart around 4:30–5:00 PM Back in Hanoi by 7:00–7:30 PM Tips: Bring sunscreen, hat, water, and comfy shoes Wear light, breathable clothes (but modest for temples) Bring cash (some places don’t take cards)