This full day excursion offers the opportunity to visit the historic capital of Vietnam. Sprawled along the banks of the Red River, Hanoi is a city of lakes, boulevards, parks, and a curious blend of colonial architecture and modern economic resurgence. Relax and enjoy the countryside during your mini-van drive to Hanoi, getting a glimpse of the scenic Red River Delta and its farming activities. Along the way, make a stop at Dong Trieu Ceramic Village and observe the process of making traditional ceramics.

On arrival in Hanoi, visit the elegant Temple of Literature, a rare example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and the most important temple complex in the country. Dating from 1070, the temple is dedicated to Confucius and honors scholars of literary accomplishment. Next, tour the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, or "Hanoi Hilton," where American POW's were held during the Vietnam War.

Pause for a lunch of local delicacies at one of Hanoi's deluxe restaurants in the city center. Following lunch, drive to Ba Dinh Square for a photo stop at Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum, a massive granite structure modeled after Lenin's Tomb in Moscow. A short walk from the mausoleum takes you to the One-Pillared Pagoda, originally constructed in 1049 and one of the few structures remaining from the original city.

Encounter a touch of old Hanoi with a stop at a tiny island located in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword) and a visit to the Ngoc Son pagoda, reached by an arched footbridge. Experience the charming Old Quarter, which has survived surprisingly intact, and considered the most beautiful area of the city. Drive through the narrow streets, named for the products sold on each (Basket Street, Paper Street, Silk Street, Jewelers Street). The crafts of the past have given way to new products, but the fascinating color and activity of the old city endures. Enjoy free time to explore on foot before the return drive to the ship at Cai Lan port.

Notes: Travel time to/from Hanoi is approximately 3 hours each way, and may be affected by unpredictable traffic conditions. The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion.