Discover North of Vietnam 5D4N: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh

5D4N

The  Discovery North of Vietnam 5D4N tour takes travelers on a journey through Northern Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, combining cultural discovery, spectacular landscapes, and an unforgettable overnight experience in Ha Long Bay.

Begin in Hanoi, where centuries-old heritage, vibrant street life, and elegant architecture create a fascinating introduction to Vietnam. Explore the city’s historic charm while discovering its distinctive local culture and cuisine.

The highlight of the journey is an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay, sailing among majestic limestone karsts and emerald waters. Spend a night surrounded by breathtaking seascapes, with opportunities for kayaking, cave exploration, sunset views, and relaxing on board as the bay transforms from day to night.

Continue to Ninh Binh, where peaceful rivers wind through towering limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and lush rice paddies.

With a comfortable and well-balanced pace, this itinerary offers the perfect combination of Hanoi’s culture, an unforgettable overnight Ha Long Bay cruise, and the tranquil natural beauty of Ninh Binh.

🚶 Hanoi Old Quarter – Walking & Local Discovery
Explore the charming Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and hidden local corners on a guided walking tour through the heart of Hanoi.

🚢 Ha Long Bay – Overnight Cruise & Adventure
Sail among spectacular limestone karsts and emerald waters, with opportunities for kayaking, cave exploration, sunset views, and exciting onboard activities.

🌅 Ha Long Bay Morning – Tai Chi & Scenic Cruising
Start your morning with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck before cruising through Ha Long Bay’s peaceful and breathtaking seascapes.

🚣 Trang An – Scenic Boat Ride & Caves
Glide through tranquil waterways, hidden caves, and towering limestone karsts in Trang An

🍜 Vietnamese Local Life – Culture, Cuisine & Traditions
Go beyond the main attractions and discover authentic Vietnamese culture through local cuisine, traditions, everyday life, and meaningful local encounters.

Hanoi – Ha Long Bay (2 days) – Ninh Binh (1 day)

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Half Day walking Tour

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Take some time to relax after your journey.

At around 5:00 PM, your guide will meet you at the hotel and take you on a walking tour of the Hanoi Old Quarter. Discover the vibrant streets, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Cathedral, and the famous Train Street while gaining insight into local life and culture. Your guide will also provide helpful recommendations for sightseeing, food, and shopping to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in Vietnam.

Enjoy a traditional egg coffee during the tour.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 2: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise (B/L/D) – SIC tour

Hanoi – Ha Long Bay ~160 km | Duration: 2.5–3 hours (expressway)

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi for Ha Long Bay by comfortable shuttle bus (SIC tour), starting between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. Upon arrival, board your cruise and enjoy a welcome drink while checking in.

A delicious seafood lunch will be served as the cruise sails through thousands of limestone islands, offering breathtaking views of this natural wonder.

In the afternoon, take part in various exciting activities such as kayaking or a bamboo boat ride, exploring hidden caves, and swimming (weather permitting). Later, enjoy a sunset party on board followed by a fun cooking class.

What to do at night:

• Sunset party on the cruise deck
• Squid fishing
• Relax under the stars on the sundeck

Overnight on cruise.

Day 3: Ha Long Bay – Return to Hanoi (B/Brunch)

Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck while enjoying the peaceful morning views of the bay.

Continue cruising through the stunning limestone landscapes, visiting more scenic spots before returning to the harbor. A light brunch will be served on board.

Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel at around 3:00 PM. Enjoy free time at leisure for the rest of the day.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 4: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Trang An Boat Trip- Mua Cave (B, L)

Hanoi – Ninh Binh ~95 km | Duration: 2–2.5 hours

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi at around 8:00 AM for Ninh Binh. Upon arrival at Trang An, begin your exploration of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Embark on a peaceful rowing boat trip along a gentle river, surrounded by limestone mountains and lush green fields. During the journey, visit a series of fascinating caves, including Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Nau Ruou Cave, while enjoying the tranquil scenery.

The boat trip takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering a unique and immersive experience in nature.

Continue to Hang Mua (Dragon Peak) and climb nearly 500 steps to the summit, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view over Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside.

In the late afternoon, return to Hanoi.

Explore Hanoi at night:

• Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake
• Visit Hanoi Night Market (weekends)
• Experience famous Train Street cafés
• Enjoy egg coffee at traditional coffee shops

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 5: Hanoi Departure (B)

After breakfast, enjoy your free time until transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight.

From $ US

• Temple & Pagoda Visits: When visiting temples, pagodas, and other religious sites, please avoid shorts or skirts above the knee, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing. Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering religious areas.
• Hang Mua: The climb to Hang Mua (Dragon Peak) involves nearly 500 stone steps and some steep sections, so The Hang Mua climb is not recommended for young children, elderly travelers, or guests with mobility difficulties or limited physical fitness. Guests who do not wish to climb can remain at the lower area and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
• Weather conditions: Activities such as kayaking, swimming, cycling, and the Hang Mua climb may be adjusted or canceled depending on weather and safety conditions.

 

CHILDREN POLICY

• Children under 5 years old: free of charge for the first child (excluding sightseeing tickets), the second charged 50% tour price
• Children from 5-8 years old: 75% of tour price
• Children from 9 years old: charged as an adult