If you are seeking breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and hidden mountain gems, then North Vietnam is the perfect destination. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the misty rice terraces of Sapa, or the dramatic mountains of Ha Giang to the emerald waters of Halong Bay, the north offers a complete and unforgettable adventure.
Highlights of a Classic North Vietnam Tour
If your time is limited but you want to see the very best of the north, here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary:
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in the Old Quarter. Free time to rest and explore at leisure.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Explore Hanoi’s highlights, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, Museum of Ethnology, Hoan Kiem Lake, plus a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter and a water puppet performance.
Day 3: Hanoi – Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – Tam Coc – Hanoi
A short drive (2.5 hours) takes you to Ninh Binh. Visit Vietnam’s ancient capital before enjoying a boat trip through Tam Coc, often called “Halong Bay on land.” Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.
Day 4: Hanoi – Halong Bay
Travel to Halong Bay (3.5 hours) and embark on a luxury overnight cruise. Explore limestone islands, mysterious caves, and enjoy swimming or kayaking in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi Departure
Wake up with Tai Chi on the sundeck and watch the sunrise over the bay. After brunch on board, disembark and return to Hanoi for your onward flight.
✨ Tip: If you have more time, add a Sapa tour for the ultimate northern Vietnam journey.
Discovery Tour of Northwest Vietnam
The northwest is a dream for photographers, trekkers, and those who want to experience authentic mountain life. Here’s a 5-day route:
- Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau
A peaceful valley where White Thai people live in stilt houses amid rice paddies and mountains. Overnight in a homestay. - Day 2: Mai Chau – Nghia Lo
Head deeper into the mountains, visiting ethnic villages and enjoying landscapes rarely seen by tourists. Overnight in Nghia Lo. - Day 3: Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai – Sapa
One of Vietnam’s most beautiful drives. Pass through Mu Cang Chai, home to UNESCO-recognized rice terraces, then climb to Sapa with stops at Heaven’s Gate and Silver Waterfall. - Day 4: Sapa – Lao Chai – Ta Van – Sapa
Trek through Muong Hoa Valley to admire some of Asia’s most stunning rice terraces and visit Black Hmong and Day minority villages. Overnight in Sapa. - Day 5: Sapa – Hanoi
Enjoy free time in Sapa before driving back to Hanoi via the new expressway.
Discovery Tour of Northeast Vietnam
For true explorers, northeast Vietnam remains a hidden gem, with dramatic mountain passes, ethnic markets, and spectacular natural wonders. Suggested 6-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Hanoi – Ha Giang
Drive north to Ha Giang, passing villages, rice fields, rivers, and mountains. Overnight in Ha Giang. - Day 2: Ha Giang – Quan Ba – Dong Van
Visit the Quan Ba Heaven Gate, Dong Van Karst Plateau (UNESCO Global Geopark), Pho Bang Old Town, and the Vuong Palace. Overnight in Dong Van. - Day 3: Dong Van – Meo Vac – Ba Be Lake
Cross the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, visit Meo Vac Market, and continue to Ba Be National Park for a homestay with a Tay family. - Day 4: Ba Be Lake – Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall
Take a boat trip on Ba Be Lake, then drive to Ban Gioc, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Asia. Overnight nearby. - Day 5: Ban Gioc – Nguom Ngao Cave – Bac Son Valley
Explore Nguom Ngao Cave, then continue to Bac Son Valley, famous for its sweeping views of rice fields and mountains. Homestay overnight. - Day 6: Bac Son – Hanoi
Morning exploration of the valley before returning to Hanoi.
Why Choose North Vietnam?
Whether you’re passionate about history and culture, trekking and adventure, or photography and landscapes, North Vietnam offers it all—from the charm of Hanoi and the serenity of Mai Chau, to the jaw-dropping rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai and the rugged passes of Ha Giang.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey that blends nature, heritage, and authentic local encounters.
