Northern Vietnam is a region that captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, ancient culture, and deep history. Traveling through the north offers an authentic experience of Vietnamese traditions, thousand-year-old heritage, and stunning natural wonders that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
Suggested Itinerary – 8 Days in Northern Vietnam
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Arrive in the capital city and settle in.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Explore the charm of Hanoi through its historic landmarks and vibrant old quarter.
Day 3: Hanoi – Lao Cai – Ethnic Market – Sapa
Take an overnight train to Lao Cai, then continue to Sapa. Visit a colorful hill tribe market, where ethnic minorities gather to trade goods, socialize, and celebrate life.
Day 4: Sapa Exploration
Discover magnificent rice terraces, trek to local ethnic villages, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the highlands.
Day 5: Sapa Free Day – Lao Cai – Train to Hanoi
Enjoy free time in Sapa before returning to Hanoi.
Day 6: Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Trang An Grottoes – Ninh Binh
Travel to Ninh Binh to visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and take a scenic boat trip through the magical caves of Trang An, often called “Halong Bay on land.” Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Day 7: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay
Head to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and board an overnight cruise among thousands of limestone islands.
Day 8: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Departure
Savor the morning on the bay before returning to Hanoi for your departure flight.
Tour Highlights
Hanoi City Tour
Discover the heart of the capital with visits to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his house, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Museum of Ethnology, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan Thanh Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Hanoi Old Quarter, plus a cyclo ride and traditional Water Puppet show.
Sapa
Experience the lively ethnic markets and meet diverse hill tribes. Trek through breathtaking rice terraces, explore remote villages, and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Hoa Lu & Trang An Grottoes
Step back in time at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first capital, before taking a peaceful boat trip through the spectacular Trang An grottoes.
Halong Bay
Cruise through thousands of limestone islets rising dramatically from the sea. The overnight boat trip is the highlight of any journey to Vietnam.
More Northern Vietnam Experiences
Beyond the main route, there are plenty of other gems worth exploring:
- Tam Coc – another “Halong Bay on land.”
- Perfume Pagoda – a famous pilgrimage site.
- Duong Lam Ancient Village – with traditional houses dating back centuries.
- Bat Trang Ceramic Village – where artisans keep the craft alive.
- Thay & Tay Phuong Pagodas – spiritual and architectural highlights.
- Mai Chau Valley – perfect for a homestay among Thai ethnic people.
- Northeast & Northwest Vietnam – ideal for adventure seekers and off-the-beaten-path explorers.
