6 Days Discover Northern Vietnam From Hanoi

After breakfast, our guide will meet you to begin a full-day exploration of Hanoi, Vietnam’s elegant capital. We'll start the city tour at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which includes his mausoleum, gardens, stilt house, and a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

Our first stop is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, located in the heart of Ba Dinh Square, where the nation’s founder rests. This significant monument is open to visitors from Tuesday to Thursday, and on weekends, between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM.

Next, we’ll visit the nearby Presidential Palace and the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique structure resembling a lotus rising from a square pond. Originally built in 1049 by King Ly Thai Tong, inspired by a dream of the Goddess of Mercy, it was destroyed in 1954 and later restored in 1955.

We'll continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Here, you'll gain insight into the country's educational history, which dates back over a thousand years.

In the afternoon, we’ll explore the Ethnology Museum, which showcases the rich diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. The museum features both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including traditional houses reflecting various architectural styles. Please note, the museum is closed on Mondays.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Hanoi.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive through the fertile farmlands of the Red River Delta to Ha Long City.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam's most stunning natural wonders. Located nearly 200 kilometers from Hanoi, the bay boasts 1,600 limestone islands, each offering a breathtaking view.

Upon arrival in Ha Long, board a luxurious wooden sailing junk for a cruise through the bay's limestone formations and emerald waters. This is a perfect opportunity to marvel at the extraordinary scenery of this World Heritage Site. Onboard, savor a delicious fresh seafood lunch, then enjoy swimming and exploring some of the bay's limestone caves. As the sun sets, we’ll anchor near a secluded island for the night. Dinner will be served on board, followed by an overnight stay on the junk.

Waking up to the serene beauty of the bay, we have time for an early morning swim, taking in the joys and emotions of watching the sunrise over the sea, followed by breakfast on board. This morning, we continue exploring the bay, seeking out more secluded areas. The junk will remain nearby, serving as a support vessel for anyone who may need it. Around midday, we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our awaiting vehicle for a 3-hour drive to Ninh Binh.

On arrival, check - in hotel and time on your own.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Ninh Binh.

After breakfast in the morning, you’ll explore Ninh Binh, the former capital of ancient Vietnam before Hanoi took its prominent role in the 11th century. The region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the Tam Coc Caves and Hoa Lu, the ancient capital with its historic temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, who ruled in the 10th century.

Your Ninh Binh experience begins with a boat trip through Tam Coc, where majestic limestone karsts rise dramatically from the lush green rice fields, evoking comparisons to Guilin in China and earning the area the nickname “Ha Long Bay on land.”

Next, delve deeper into Ninh Binh's history at the site of the 10th-century royal palace, now famous for the intricate wooden carvings of the serene Dinh and Le temples. Continue to Mua Cave, a site known for its captivating legends. Climb 500 stone steps to the peak, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the countryside and the meandering Ngo Dong River.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Ninh Binh.

Breakfast is served at the hotel. After that, transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight.

End of our service.