Explore North & Center of Vietnam in 10 days

10D9N

Discover the highlights of Northern and Central Vietnam on a 10-day journey through Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hue, and Da Nang. Explore the vibrant streets and cultural heritage of Hanoi, experience the spectacular mountain landscapes and ethnic culture of Sapa, and cruise through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Continue to Ninh Binh for peaceful waterways and dramatic scenery before heading to Central Vietnam to discover the imperial heritage of Hue and the breathtaking mountain views of Ba Na Hills. Combining culture, nature, adventure, and local experiences, this itinerary offers a memorable introduction to the diverse beauty of Northern and Central Vietnam.

🚶 Hanoi Walking Experience – Old Quarter & Local Life
Discover the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, and explore hidden local corners on a guided walking tour.

🏔️ Sapa – Mountain Scenery & Ethnic Culture
Discover Sapa’s spectacular mountain landscapes, terraced rice fields, and traditional villages while experiencing the unique cultures of Vietnam’s ethnic communities.

🌾 Sapa Villages & Rice Terraces – Nature & Local Life
Trek through scenic valleys and terraced rice fields, visit traditional villages, and experience the peaceful rhythm of daily life in the Sapa highlands.

🚢 Ha Long Bay Day Cruise – Limestone Karsts & Scenic Views
Enjoy a memorable day cruise through Ha Long Bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts, emerald waters, and spectacular natural scenery.

🛶 Trang An Boat Ride – Caves & Limestone Landscapes
Glide along tranquil waterways through mysterious caves and towering limestone karsts in the spectacular “Ha Long Bay on land.”

🐒 Son Tra Peninsula – Nature & Wildlife
Explore the lush landscapes of Son Tra Peninsula, home to the rare Red-shanked Douc Langur and a beautiful combination of forest and coastal scenery.

⛰️ Marble Mountains – Caves, Temples & Panoramic Views
Discover sacred temples, fascinating caves, and scenic viewpoints as you explore the impressive Marble Mountains overlooking Da Nang.

🏯 Hue Imperial City – Royal Heritage & History
Step into Vietnam’s imperial past and discover magnificent royal architecture, ancient tombs, and cultural treasures from the Nguyen Dynasty.

🥥 Cam Thanh Coconut Village – Coconut Forest & Local Life
Explore the peaceful waterways of Cam Thanh, experience traditional basket boat activities, and discover the daily life of local fishing communities.

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: Ha Noi – Sapa – Cat Cat Village (B)

Hanoi – Sapa ~320 km | Duration: 5.5–6.5 hours (limousine/van)

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi for Sapa on a scenic mountain drive. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to refresh.

In the afternoon, visit Cat Cat Village, home to the H’mong ethnic minority. Stroll through a picturesque valley of terraced rice fields, waterfalls, and traditional wooden houses while discovering local handicrafts and daily life. Return to Sapa town in the late afternoon.

Enjoy your evening in Sapa town:

• Visit Sapa Night Market
• Enjoy local mountain BBQ dishes
• Relax at cafés overlooking the misty mountain valley
• Explore Sapa town center and local handicraft shops

Overnight in Sapa.

Day 3: Fansipan Peak – Return to Hanoi (B)

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Fansipan – the “Roof of Indochina.” Soar above the clouds on a spectacular cable car ride, taking in sweeping panoramic views of the majestic Hoang Lien Son Range.

At the summit, embrace the exhilarating feeling of standing at the highest point in Indochina, surrounded by misty peaks and dramatic landscapes—an iconic highlight of your journey.

Descend back to Sapa, then return to Hanoi in the afternoon by limousine.
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 4: 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 5: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Trang An – Mua Cave (B/L)

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

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi for Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land.”

Upon arrival, embark on a peaceful boat trip in Trang An, gliding through crystal-clear rivers, limestone mountains, and mystical caves. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a serene and breathtaking natural setting.

You may choose to climb to the top of Mua Cave for a panoramic view over the entire valley—one of the most iconic viewpoints in Northern Vietnam.

Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.

What to do at night in Hanoi:

• Explore Hanoi Old Quarter and its lively streets

• Walk around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake
  • Visit local cafés or rooftop lounges
  • Discover the vibrant Hanoi Night Market (weekend)

Overnight in 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 6: Flight Hanoi – Da Nang – Free time

After breakfast, enjoy your free time until transfer to Noi Bai International Airport to Da Nang.

Upon your arrival, our vehicle and guide from Viet Impression Travel will welcome you at Da Nang International Airport, then move to the hotel for check in.

Today you will have free time to explore Danang city.

Day 7: Hue City Full Day (B/L)

(Da Nang – Hue ~102 km | Duration: 2.5–3 hours one way)

After breakfast, depart from Da Nang to Hue. Enjoy a scenic drive along Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful coastal roads, and stop at Lap An Lagoon for picturesque views.

Visit Khai Dinh Tomb, known for its unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture and the legacy of a Nguyen Emperor. Continue to a local restaurant for lunch.

In the afternoon, explore Hue Imperial City, the former royal palace of the Nguyen Dynasty, including the Forbidden Purple City, temples, and historic gates. Then visit Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic monastery by the Perfume River, famous for its iconic seven-story tower.

Return to Da Nang in the late afternoon. Dinner at your leisure and overnight in Da Nang.

Day 8: Ba Na Hills Full Day (B/L)

(Da Nang – Ba Na Hills ~30 km | Duration: 45–60 minutes)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to Sun World Ba Na Hills for a full-day experience. Take a scenic cable car ride to the mountaintop (1,487m), enjoying panoramic views and the unique “four seasons in a day.” Explore attractions, leisure activities, and diverse dining options.

Visit the iconic Golden Bridge, famous for its giant stone hands, and enjoy a buffet lunch on-site.

In the afternoon (around 15:00–15:30), descend by cable car and return to your hotel in Da Nang. Dinner at your leisure.

In the evening, for a more vibrant atmosphere, you may visit rooftop bars or beachside lounges, and if traveling on weekends, don’t miss the fire and water show at Dragon Bridge.

Day 9: Marble Mountains – Monkey Mountain – Cam Thanh Coconut Jungle – Hoi An Ancient Town (B/L)

Have breakfast at the hotel and free time to relax until our guide and vehicle come to pick you up.

Today, visit Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn), a cluster of five limestone and marble hills in Da Nang, each named after one of the five elements: Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth. Explore its caves, ancient Buddhist temples, and historic pagodas, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

End the morning at Non Nuoc Stone Sculpture Village, where you can see local artisans transform marble into beautiful sculptures, from intricate Buddha figures to detailed decorative pieces.

After leaving Marble Mountains and Non Nuoc Village, visit Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain), about 10 km northeast of Da Nang, known for its lush scenery and protective hills. Continue to Linh Ung Pagoda to see Vietnam’s tallest Guanyin Buddha statue, standing 67 meters high.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit Cam Thanh Coconut Jungle, a serene forest of coconut trees with clear green waters. Experience a basket boat ride, join fun activities with local boatmen, see traditional fishing nets, and get a glimpse of daily life in a Vietnamese fishing village.

Visit Hoi An Ancient Town – a UNESCO-listed heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture. Explore traditional ancient houses, historic Chinese assembly halls, and stop by the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge – a cultural symbol of the town.

Return to Da Nang for rest.

In the evening, free time to enjoy dinner and explore the city at your own pace. You may stroll along the Han River, visit night markets, or relax at seaside cafés.

Day 10: Departure (B)

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

From $ US

Important: Preparing for Your Vietnam Journey (North to South)

Vietnam’s climate varies significantly as you travel from the mountainous north to the south and central Vienam. Over a 15-day trip, you will experience everything from cool mountain air to warm sunshine and potential rain. To ensure your comfort, we recommend the following packing strategy:

• Clothing: Pack light, breathable fabrics (cotton/linen) for warm days, and warm layers (sweatshirts/cardigans) for cooler northern evenings or mountains.
• Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes for cities, sturdy shoes for Fansipan, and sandals for the beach.
• Rain Gear: Always carry a compact waterproof jacket or umbrella.
• Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential.

Here are specific clothing and weather considerations for key locations in your itinerary:

Northern Vietnam (Fansipan – Sapa): The summit is cold, windy, and unpredictable.

Required: Warm layers, a windproof/waterproof jacket, and sturdy, non-slip shoes.

Central Vietnam (Ba Na Hills): Temperatures drop significantly on the mountain.

Required: A light jacket, cardigan, or shawl.

Required: Swimwear, quick-dry clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear.

Ha Long Bay: Kayaking is subject to weather and sea conditions. In case of strong winds, heavy rain, or rough seas, the activity may be adjusted, postponed, or cancelled for safety reasons.

General Etiquette (Temples, Pagodas & Mausoleums):

Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slip-on shoes are recommended for easy removal.

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