You will begin by uncovering the historic highlights of Hanoi, before escaping the city to something a little more relaxed, like Ninh Binh. Conclude your amazing short trip on a cruise around the captivating karsts, grottoes and amazing caves of the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Halong Bay.

The Essential North Vietnam - 5 Days tour is one of the best tours of Vietnam, offering a comprehensive introduction to the beautiful country's northern region. This 5-day tour takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history of northern Vietnam.

On this tour, you will visit the vibrant city of Hanoi, where you will see the bustling Old Quarter and the iconic Temple of Literature. You will also have the opportunity to explore the stunning countryside of the north, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay and the picturesque rice fields of Ninh Binh.

In addition to sightseeing, this tour also includes a range of exciting activities. You will also have the chance to interact with local people and learn about their customs and way of life.

Overall, the Essential North Vietnam tour is a perfect way to experience the beauty and diversity of this region. Book now and discover the hidden gems of northern Vietnam on this unforgettable tour.

Start city: Hanoi

End city: Hanoi

Durations 5 Days 4 Nights

Cities to visit: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay

Extendable with optional tours from Hanoi

 

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour.
Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh.
Day 4: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay.
Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Departure.

 

PRICE & PAYMENT

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Price Included

  • Accommodation in a shared twin or shared double room.
  • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • English speaking guide (other languages at additional surcharge).
  • Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Entrance fees for mentioned visits.
  • Service charges and government VAT tax.

Price Excluded

  • Visa stamp fee.
  • Other meals than mentioned in the itinerary.
  • International flight into and out Vietnam.
  • Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of personal expenses.
  • Gratuities for tour guides/driver.
  • Travel insurance.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival.
Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam's bustling colonial capital. Your guide will meet you when you touch down at Noi Bai International Airport and you’ll be taken to your hotel. Check in and spend the rest of time at your leisure.
Meals: N/A.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour.
In the morning, you will leave the hustle and bustle and take to the countryside by bicycle. You’ll pedal through quaint villages and along the river banks, stopping to take tea with a local family to learn about Vietnamese life. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university – before walking through Hanoi’s Old Quarter where you can chat with locals and bag a bargain at the market.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh (Hoa Lu & Tam Coc).
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to Ninh Binh. Hoa Lu, situated 100 km south of Hanoi, was the capital city of Vietnam under the Dinh Dynasty between 968 and 1009 AD. Some of the sanctuaries and tombs have survived the years and can still be seen today. Start cycling on countryside roads onto Hoa Lu and the ancient 10th century citadel. Apart from the historical interest, the area is also one of astounding natural beauty with limestone peaks whose splendor is often said to surpass that of Halong Bay. Continue your ride through the limestone peaks to Tam Coc, passing rice paddies and rural villages. In Tam Coc lunch is served at a local restaurant with a view over the boat pier. The tour includes being rowed along the Ngo Dong River, which makes for a truly unforgettable experience, passing between towering limestone peaks. You conclude an excursion day with a visit to Bich Dong Pagoda.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ninh Binh.


Day 4: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Overnight on cruise.
(The itinerary is a sample, depends on weather and it will be different between cruises. Our travel consultants will provide the exact schedule and program if you book other cruise such as Hera Cruise, Halong President Cruise, Emperor Cruise, Halong Violet, Halong Jasmine, Paradise Luxury Cruises, Ginger Cruise, Orchid Cruise, Indochina Sails, Au Co Cruise, Starlight Cruise, Sealife Cruise, Oriental Sails etc.)
Halong Bay is one of the most loved spots in Vietnam for a reason - it's gorgeous. On this Halong Bay tour, we take you away from the hectic pace of life in Hanoi and introduce you to the tranquil, beautiful Halong Bay... Following breakfast, journey northeast through the rich farmland of the Red River Delta (Nam Dinh, Thai Binh & Hai Phong) to Halong Bay, truly one of Vietnam's most scenic impressive sights. On arrival you are welcomed onboard a traditional junk. Settle into a private comfortable cabin and unpack for a two-day cruise around Halong Bay. Along the way, enjoy a huge lunch served on board and admire the picturesque scenery of islands. These limestone karst formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. You will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and an enjoyable visit to Sung Sot Cave, one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. The remainder of day is for your own pleasure; observing the bay, lazing around the deck or simply soaking up the sunshine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: on cruise on Halong Bay.

Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Departure.
Awake early and participate in Tai Chi on the top deck or simply relax and enjoy the sunrise over the bay’s towering islands. Enjoy a morning cup of coffee or tea, before setting out to explore nearby islands by rowboat. Return to the junk for breakfast then take advantage of the sundeck and admire the amazing rock formations of the bay as you navigate back to the harbour. Savor a fresh seafood lunch, served on board before sailing back to Halong City, where your car will be waiting to take you back to Hano’s International Airport for your departure flight.
If you need any further tour arrangements, accommodation booking or excursion, please contact us for assistance.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: N/A.

TRAVEL MAPS

Essential North Vietnam - 5 Days map
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Since 2005, we have been Indochina’s foremost active travel company designing journeys of comfort and authenticity to the most amazing destinations in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. Read more ...

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