10 days explore North & Center of Vietnam

10D9N

Discover the highlights of Northern and Central Vietnam on a 9-day journey from Hanoi to the beautiful coast of Central Vietnam. Explore the vibrant streets and cultural heritage of Hanoi, cruise among the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, and discover the spectacular landscapes of Ninh Binh. Continue south to Hue to uncover Vietnam’s imperial heritage, experience the mountain scenery of Ba Na Hills, and wander through the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town. Complete your journey with a relaxing escape to Cu Lao Cham, combining cultural discovery, natural beauty, and unforgettable coastal experiences.

🚶 Hanoi Walking Experience – Old Quarter & Local Life
Explore Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, and discover hidden local corners while experiencing the city’s vibrant everyday life.

🚢 Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise – Kayaking & Cave Exploration
Cruise among Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone karsts, enjoy kayaking and cave exploration, and relax with sunset views and exciting onboard activities.

🌅 Ha Long Bay Morning Experience – Tai Chi & Scenic Cruising
Start the morning with Tai Chi on the sundeck before enjoying a peaceful cruise through Ha Long Bay’s spectacular limestone landscapes.

🛶 Trang An Boat Ride – Caves & Limestone Landscapes
Glide along tranquil waterways through impressive caves and towering limestone karsts in Trang An, often known as the “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.

🏮 Hoi An Ancient Town – Heritage & Local Culture
Wander through Hoi An’s charming historic streets, admire its well-preserved architecture, and experience the town’s unique blend of traditional culture and local life.

🥥 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.

🏯 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.

Day 1: Ha Noi 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 Ha Noi Old Quarter. Discover the vibrant streets, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ha Noi 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 Ha Noi

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

Ha Noi – 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 Ha Noi (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: Ha Noi – Ninh Binh – Trang An Boat Trip- Mua Cave (B)

Ha Noi – 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 often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land.”

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 Ha Noi.

Explore Ha Noi 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 Ha Noi

Day 5: Flight Ha Noi – 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 6: 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 7: 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 8: 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 9: Cu Lao Cham – Group tour (B/L)

(Da Nang city- Cu Lao Cham~45 km | Duration 45–60 minutes)

Have breakfast at the hotel. Then get ready for Cu Lao Cham.

Cham Islands is a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and peaceful fishing villages that offer an authentic coastal experience.

• Explore Lang Beach with visits to the Marine Protected Area, Hai Tang Pagoda, and the traditional fishing village, gaining insight into local life.
• Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in clear blue waters, discovering colorful coral reefs and marine life.
• Relax at Bai Ong or Bai Chong beach, savor a fresh seafood lunch, and unwind in a tranquil island setting.
• Return to Da Nang in the afternoon by 3 p.m

Overnight in Danang.

• Take a relaxing evening stroll along the Han River and enjoy the city lights
• Don’t miss the Dragon Bridge fire and water show (available on weekends)

Explore vibrant local night markets for street food, shopping, and local culture.

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=central Vienam. Over a 10-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:

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

Required: A light jacket, cardigan, or shawl

Ha Long Bay Cruise: The weather can be windy on the bay, while swimming and kayaking may get your clothes wet.

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

Cham Island: Generally warm.

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.

Required: Swimwear, hat, and sunscreen. Check the weather forecast before boat or snorkeling tours.

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