Beauty of Northern Vietnam
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Northern Vietnam on this 7-day journey that takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Mai Chau, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long Bay. This tour combines cultural exploration, gourmet experiences, and stunning natural scenery, offering a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Begin your adventure with a warm welcome in Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital. Spend your first day diving into the city’s cultural depths with a full-day exploration that includes visits to historic sites and a delectable street food journey through the bustling Old Quarter. Savour the unique flavours of Vietnamese cuisine as you wander through the lively streets.
Leave the city behind as you travel to the picturesque valley of Mai Chau, where you’ll be surrounded by verdant rice fields and traditional stilt houses. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the local ethnic minorities and delve into their unique way of life. Continue your journey to Ninh Binh, where you’ll discover the ancient temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties, nestled amidst stunning karst landscapes.
The adventure continues with a cycling and sampan journey through the scenic beauty of Tam Coc, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land.” Pedal through peaceful countryside paths and glide along the tranquil rivers, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery.
From Ninh Binh, head to the world-famous Ha Long Bay, where you’ll embark on a memorable cruise through its emerald waters and dramatic limestone formations. Spend the night on board, enjoying the serene beauty of this natural wonder.
As your journey draws to a close, return to Hanoi with cherished memories of your time in Northern Vietnam. With its blend of cultural richness and natural splendour, this 7-day tour offers an unforgettable experience, leaving you with a deep connection to the heart of Vietnam.
Welcome to Vietnam!
Upon arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport, a hostess with your name sign will guide you through fast-track security services. After obtaining a Visa stamp and collecting your luggage, the hostess will lead you to your awaiting guide and vehicle. Enjoy a private transfer to your accommodations with a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.
Meals: N/A
Stay overnight in Hanoi
Embark on a captivating morning journey through Hanoi’s cultural and historical gems. Begin with a peaceful visit to Tran Quoc Pagoda, a revered ancient temple nestled by West Lake, offering serene views and spiritual ambiance. Continue to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay respects to Vietnam’s beloved leader and explore the surrounding complex, including the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh Museum. Next, immerse yourself in Vietnam’s academic heritage at the Temple of Literature, a beautifully preserved sanctuary of Confucian scholarship, where tranquil courtyards and historic architecture provide a glimpse into the country's intellectual past. Round off your morning with a delightful culinary experience, savouring traditional Vietnamese dishes like Pho, Banh Cuon, and Nom Bo Kho, celebrating the rich and diverse flavours of the local cuisine.
In the afternoon, delve into Vietnam’s historical past with a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, a sombre yet insightful museum showcasing the country's colonial and wartime struggles. Continue your exploration with a quintessential Vietnamese street food experience, enjoying the iconic Banh Mi, a perfect blend of crispy baguette, savoury meats, and fresh herbs. As you unwind from the day's activities, treat yourself to a cup of the famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang, a creamy and indulgent blend of egg yolks, condensed milk, and strong coffee, providing a sweet conclusion to your day of discovery in Hanoi.
Meals: Breakfast, Street food
Stay overnight in Hanoi
At 08:00, we will set out from Hanoi, leaving behind the vibrant cityscape for the tranquil countryside. Our first stop will be Luong Son, where you'll have the opportunity to capture the essence of the local market through your lens. We will then continue our journey to Hoa Binh before arriving at the charming Mai Chau Stilt House, our accommodation for the night. After checking in, indulge in a traditional lunch featuring authentic dishes from the Thai ethnic minority.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the idyllic landscapes of Mai Chau as we explore the enchanting Mo Luong (Soldier) Cave and visit the picturesque Lac Village and Poom Coong Village. You can choose to discover these locations by bicycle or on foot, and you will be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local people. Engage in meaningful conversations to gain a deeper understanding of their lifestyle and cultural heritage. After a day of exploration, return to your stilt house or hotel for a delightful dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.
For those interested in a unique cultural experience, an optional folk dance performance featuring traditional Thai singing and dancing is available. Please note that this activity is not included in the tour price.
Surcharge for Friday and Saturday
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay overnight in Mai Chau
Begin your day with a traditional breakfast before transferring to Ninh Binh.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich history of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam founded in the 10th century by the Dinh Dynasty. Once a formidable political and military stronghold, Hoa Lu played a crucial role in defending against northern invaders before being succeeded by the Le Dynasty.
Explore the historical grandeur of this site by visiting the two revered temples: the Temple of Dinh Tien Hoang, dedicated to the first emperor of Vietnam and the sole monarch of the Dinh Dynasty, and the Temple of the Le Kings, honouring the successive rulers of the Le Dynasty. Despite the passage of time, these temples continue to showcase invaluable antique carvings and sculptures in stone and wood, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay overnight in Ninh Binh
Meet your guide at the hotel and embark on an engaging journey. Arrive in Tam Coc and start your adventure with a cycling trip through the scenic landscape. Visit Bich Dong, an ancient, three-tiered cave pagoda accessible by a challenging ascent of steep stone steps. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views and the tranquil beauty of the pagoda.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savouring authentic regional cuisine.
In the afternoon, set off on a tranquil Sampan cruise along the Hoang Long River, meandering through the picturesque landscape of Tam Coc. Often referred to as "an inland Ha Long Bay," this 350-hectare expanse features striking karst formations amid lush wetlands and verdant paddy fields. Depending on the season, you might witness local farmers engaged in rice harvesting or planting new crops. Glide through the three majestic caves—each contributing to the area’s name, "Tam Coc," which means "three caves" in Vietnamese—while marvelling at the dramatic natural scenery.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant in Ninh Binh, savouring traditional Vietnamese cuisine. After dinner, check into your accommodation in Ninh Binh for an overnight stay.
Relax and unwind at your chosen accommodation, preparing for a restful night after a day of exploration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay overnight in Ninh Binh
Begin your adventure with a morning pickup at 08:00 from your hotel for a scenic transfer to Ha Long Bay, approximately 160 km away, a journey of around 3.5 hours. Along the way, you will pass through the charming rural landscapes of the Red River Delta, offering ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs of local Vietnamese farmers tending to their lush paddy fields. Midway through the journey, enjoy a stop at a handicraft workshop, known for its exquisite fine clothing and beautifully embroidered paintings.
Arriving in Ha Long City at 11:30, you'll be welcomed aboard your selected junk boat, where a refreshing welcome drink will be served. As the cruise begins, delight in a delectable lunch onboard while taking in the breathtaking vistas of the mighty bay. Ha Long Bay, which translates to Descending Dragon Bay, is steeped in legend and said to be the sacred landing place of a celestial dragon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the natural wonders of the world, boasts an impressive formation dating back over 500 million years, with approximately 2,000 stunning karst islands and islets scattered across 1,553 km2.
Your journey continues with close-up views of the iconic Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, and Sail Island. Explore the enchanting Sung Sot Cave and enjoy a refreshing swim at the picturesque Titov Beach. Unwind as you watch the sun set over the bay's shimmering waters before savouring a delightful dinner on board. Later in the evening, try your hand at night fishing at 21:00, and relax with an overnight stay on the peaceful waters of Ha Long Bay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay overnight on Ha Long Bay Cruise
Early risers will be rewarded with a breathtaking and serene view of Ha Long Bay at dawn. Immerse yourself in the refreshing sea air, enjoy the gentle morning breeze, and listen to the melodic sounds of birds overhead. After a delightful breakfast, continue your cruise to explore the Human Head Shaped Island and Tortoise Island. Sail further into Bai Tu Long Bay to uncover the beauty of this lesser-known gem, aptly named "The Little Dragon Bowing to His Mother."
As your journey concludes, check out and enjoy a leisurely lunch on board while cruising back to the shore.
Disembark and transfer to Hanoi Airport for your flight home. End trip!
Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
- Accommodation in a twin or double room with daily breakfast
- One-night cruise on Ha Long Bay
- Lunch or dinner as specified in the itinerary
- Services of a driver and private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers
- Experienced English-speaking guide during all tours and transfers
- Entrance fees for all visits as mentioned in the itinerary
- Private boat for sightseeing as mentioned in the programme
- Mineral water is available as complementary
- International & Domestic flight tickets
- Personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc. All other services not specified in the itinerary
- Meals, if not specified in the itinerary
- Vietnam visa approval letter on arrival
- Visa stamping fee at the airport (25 USD single entry to Vietnam paid by cash at the airport)
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Travel insurance (we highly recommend that you purchase adequate insurance)
HOTEL LISTS
Destination |
Superior packages | Deluxe packages |
Luxury packages |
HA NOI |
SILK PATH LUXURY HANOI HOTEL | PAN PACIFIC HOTEL |
SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE |
MAI CHAU |
MAI CHAU HIDEAWAY | MAI CHAU ECOLODGE |
AVANA RETREAT |
NINH BINH |
NINH BINH HIDDEN CHARM | EMERALDA RESORT TAM COC |
ARAVINDA RESORT |
HA LONG |
DORIS CRUISE | HERITAGE CRUISES (BINH CHUAN) |
CAPELLA CRUISE |