7 days discovery north of Vietnam: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh

7 days

Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, families, and travelers looking for a well-paced introduction to Northern Vietnam, this 7-day journey combines the region’s most iconic destinations with a comfortable balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and local experiences.

Discover the vibrant capital of Hanoi, from its historic Old Quarter and cultural landmarks to its authentic street food and local way of life. Continue to Ha Long Bay for an unforgettable overnight cruise among dramatic limestone karsts and emerald waters, with time to enjoy kayaking, cave exploration, and breathtaking scenery.

The journey then takes you to Ninh Binh, where peaceful countryside, ancient temples, limestone mountains, and scenic waterways create a completely different side of Northern Vietnam.

With a carefully designed pace and a mix of culture, nature, light adventure, and free time, this itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience the highlights of Northern Vietnam without feeling rushed.

🏛️ Discover Hanoi’s timeless charm

Wander through the historic Old Quarter, experience local life, and taste iconic specialties such as Bun Cha and egg coffee.

🚢 Cruise through Ha Long Bay

Enjoy an unforgettable overnight cruise among dramatic limestone karsts and emerald waters, with kayaking, cave exploration, and spectacular sunset views.

🏯 Experience Hanoi’s history & culture

 Visit iconic landmarks including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Train Street.

🌸 Visit Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

Discover traditional incense-making craftsmanship and capture vibrant, colorful photographs.

🌿 Explore the beauty of Ninh Binh

Take a scenic boat trip through the spectacular caves and limestone landscapes of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, often known as “Ha Long Bay on land.”

⛰️ Climb to Hang Mua Viewpoint

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Tam Coc’s rice fields and limestone mountains.

🧳 Enjoy a well-balanced itinerary

Combine guided sightseeing with free time to relax, explore independently, and experience Vietnam at your own pace.

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Free time

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

After check-in, enjoy your free time to relax or begin exploring the charming Old Quarter at your own pace.

Overnight in Hanoi.

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

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

After breakfast, depart Hanoi for Ha Long Bay by comfortable shuttle bus.

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.

In the afternoon, join exciting activities:

• Kayaking or bamboo boat
• Cave exploration
• Swimming (weather permitting)
• Sunset party & cooking class

Enjoy a set-menu dinner on board in the evening. Afterwards, relax at your leisure with activities such as squid fishing or simply unwind on the cruise.

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, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the bay. Continue cruising through the stunning limestone landscapes and visit additional scenic spots before returning to the harbor.

Enjoy a light brunch on board as the cruise makes its way back. Upon disembarkation, transfer back to Hanoi at noon.

The rest of the day is at leisure for you to relax or explore the city at your own pace.
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 4: Incense Village + Hanoi City Discovery Tour (B,L)

 (Hanoi – Quang Phu Cau Village ~35 km | Duration ~1 hour)

Begin your day with a pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 07:15 – 07:30, then depart for Quang Phu Cau Incense Village. Discover the traditional craft of incense-making and capture stunning photos of colorful incense drying under the sun.

Continue to the famous Train Street, a unique highlight where trains pass through a narrow residential area—perfect for memorable photos and videos.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on Train Street around 12:00 – 13:00, offering a unique chance to witness the train passing right by.

In the afternoon, explore Hanoi’s cultural and historical landmarks, including Hoa Lo Prison, Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside visit). Continue to Ba Dinh Square and visit Tran Quoc Pagoda.

Conclude the day with a complimentary Vietnamese egg coffee before returning to your hotel by 17:30.
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 5 : Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu – Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex – Hang Mua (B,L)

(Hanoi – Ninh Binh ~100 km | Duration 2–2.5 hours)

Our limousine will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 07:25 – 08:00 for Ninh Binh province, known for its stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy a short break along the way.

Upon arrival, visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, where you can learn about the country’s early dynasties. Continue with a leisurely cycling experience through the peaceful countryside, offering a glimpse into local life.

Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant around 12:00, featuring a variety of Vietnamese specialties, with vegetarian options available.

In the afternoon, take a scenic boat trip through Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its impressive system of limestone caves and tranquil waterways.

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.

Return to Hanoi by limousine in the late afternoon and arrive at your hotel by approximately 19:30.

Overnight in Hanoi.

What to do at night in Hanoi?

• Explore Hanoi Old Quarter and lively beer corners
• Walk around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake
• Visit local cafés or rooftop lounges
• Discover the vibrant Hanoi Night Market (weekend)

Day 6: Hanoi Free Day (B)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before spending a full day at leisure to explore Hanoi at your own pace. You may discover hidden cafés, go shopping, or join optional experiences such as a street food tour or countryside excursion.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 7: Hanoi Departure (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

End of services. We hope you had a wonderful journey with us and wish you a pleasant onward trip!

 

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.
• Comfortable clothing: Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended, especially for Day 4 and Day 5. Bring sun protection, a hat, sunscreen.

 

• CHILDREN POLICY

● Children under 5 years old: free of charge for the first child, the second charged 50% tour price (excluding sightseeing tickets)

● Children from 5-8 years old: 75% of tour price

● Children from 9 years old: charged as an adult