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

5D4N

The Explore North of Vietnam 5D4N tour is specially designed for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and food travelers who want to experience the authentic beauty and flavors of Northern Vietnam at a relaxed and comfortable pace.

Begin your journey in Hanoi, where centuries-old heritage, vibrant street life, and rich culinary traditions come together. Explore the city’s historic charm while tasting authentic Vietnamese specialties and discovering the local way of life.

Continue to Ha Long Bay, where dramatic limestone karsts rise from emerald waters. Enjoy a scenic cruise surrounded by spectacular natural landscapes, with opportunities for kayaking, cave exploration, and relaxing on board.

Your journey concludes in Ninh Binh, known as “Ha Long Bay on Land.” Glide along peaceful rivers through towering limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and lush rice paddies while experiencing the tranquil beauty of Vietnam’s countryside.

Combining stunning nature, authentic culture, local cuisine, and unforgettable experiences, this 5-day journey is ideal for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and discover the distinctive character of Northern Vietnam.

🏛️ Hanoi Old Quarter – Heritage & Local Charm
Wander through the lively Old Quarter, where narrow streets, traditional shops, historic architecture, and authentic local life reveal Hanoi’s timeless character.

🚢 Ha Long Bay – Cruise, Kayak & Cave Exploration
Cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts and islands, with opportunities for kayaking, cave exploration, and relaxation onboard.

🏯 Hanoi Icons – History, Culture & Street Life
Visit iconic landmarks such as Hoa Lo Prison, Ba Dinh Square, and Train Street, each offering a unique glimpse into Hanoi’s history and vibrant urban culture.

🚣 Trang An – Caves, Rivers & Limestone Karsts
Take a scenic boat ride through winding waterways, hidden caves, and towering limestone cliffs in Trang An, known as “Ha Long Bay on land.”

🍜 Local Life – Authentic Food & Cultural Encounters
Go beyond the main attractions through local cuisine, traditions, and everyday experiences, with opportunities to interact with locals and discover Vietnam’s warm and vibrant culture.

Hanoi (3 days) – Ha Long Bay (1 day) – Ninh Binh (1 day)

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Late afternoon walking street food tour

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Hanoi.

Enjoy your first glimpse of the capital, where ancient traditions blend with vibrant street life.

By 5 p.m, join in walking street food tour which offers an immersive journey into Hanoi’s rich culinary culture, guided by a local expert.
Travelers explore the Old Quarter, tasting a variety of iconic dishes such as pho, banh mi, bun cha, and other local specialties.
The experience combines vibrant street life, diverse flavors, and insights into daily local habits

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 2: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay 01 day cruise (B/L)

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

You may start your day early to experience the tranquil atmosphere of Hanoi, taking a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake or joining locals for a Tai Chi session. Return to your hotel for breakfast before departing for Ha Long Bay.

Between 08:00 – 08:45, transfer by shuttle bus to Ha Long Bay, one of the world’s natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site, heading to Tuan Chau Harbor via the expressway (approx. 2.5 hours).

Board the cruise around noon and enjoy a buffet lunch while admiring Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone islets.

Visit Sung Sot Cave, the most impressive cave in the bay, filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Continue with kayaking or a bamboo boat ride at Luon Cave, then relax or hike up TivTop Island for panoramic views.

Return to the boat by 4 p.m for a sunset party with light snacks as the cruise heads back to the harbor.

Arrive back in Hanoi around 21:00, drop-off at your hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 3: Hanoi City Tour (B/L)

After breakfast, begin your city tour at around 8:00 AM with a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” a historical site that once housed Vietnamese revolutionaries and American POWs.

Continue to visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where Vietnamese people honor their national hero, and explore Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence on September 2, 1945.

Next, head to the famous Train Street, where you can capture unique photos of the train passing through this narrow residential area—one of the most memorable highlights of Hanoi.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.

Recommended Night Activities in Hanoi:

• Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter
• Visit Hanoi Night Market (weekends)
• Enjoy street food or drinks at Ta Hien Beer Street
• Watch a show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

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, explore the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Embark on a relaxing rowing boat trip along a peaceful 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 breathtaking scenery often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land.” Have lunch at a local restaurant.

The boat trip takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering a tranquil 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.

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