Vietnam Classic North: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay
A 5-day journey exploring the essence of Northern Vietnam: Hanoi's Old Quarter, Ninh Binh's scenic wonders, and a Ha Long Bay cruise
Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
Overview
A 5-day, 4-night tour exploring three iconic Northern destinations: Hanoi – Old Quarter and cuisine, Ninh Binh – Trang An and Mua Cave, Ha Long Bay – overnight cruise on the bay.
Introduction
Vietnam Classic North is the perfect journey for first-time visitors to Northern Vietnam, combining three iconic experiences: the thousand-year culture of Hanoi, the majestic landscapes of Ninh Binh, and the legendary beauty of Ha Long Bay. From the ancient streets of the capital, the limestone mountains and serene waterways of Ninh Binh, to the mystical karst islands on the bay – all create an unforgettable trip.
Highlight Experiences
You will stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi's Old Quarter, savoring famous street food. In Ninh Binh, you will take a boat to explore Trang An – a UNESCO World Heritage site, and climb Mua Cave for a panoramic view of Tam Coc. The highlight of the journey is an overnight stay on a cruise in Ha Long Bay – where you watch the sunset over the bay, kayak to explore caves, and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner under the moonlight.
Why Choose This Tour
This is the best-selling classic tour in Northern Vietnam, ideal for first-time visitors. With a private car, English-speaking guide, and standard cruise, you will have a complete and comfortable journey. The itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted according to flight times and preferences.
Highlights
Explore Hanoi: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, and street food
Boat trip to explore Trang An – UNESCO World Heritage site in Ninh Binh
Climb Mua Cave for panoramic view of Tam Coc – 'Ha Long Bay on land'
Overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay – watch sunset and sunrise on the bay
Kayak to explore caves and fishing villages on Ha Long Bay
Enjoy fresh seafood on the cruise and specialties from three regions
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Hanoi – Explore the Old Quarter
Pick up at Noi Bai Airport or your hotel in central Hanoi. Check in hotel. Afternoon: stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge. Evening: walking food tour in the Old Quarter – enjoy beef pho, bun cha, fried spring rolls, and egg coffee. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2
Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Trang An – Mua Cave
After breakfast, check out and depart for Ninh Binh (approx. 2 hours). Visit Trang An – take a boat to explore the cave system and ancient pagodas. Lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon: climb Mua Cave for a panoramic view of Tam Coc. Check in hotel/resort in Ninh Binh. Evening: enjoy Ninh Binh specialties: crispy rice, mountain goat. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Day 3
Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay – Cruise
After breakfast, check out and depart for Ha Long Bay (approx. 3.5 hours). Arrive at the pier, board the cruise. Lunch on the cruise as you begin exploring the bay. Afternoon: visit famous islands and caves: Sung Sot Cave, Fighting Cock Islet, Incense Burner Islet. Kayak or bamboo boat to explore the quiet bay area. Evening: enjoy a seafood dinner on the cruise. Overnight on the cruise.
Day 4
Ha Long Bay – Hanoi
Early morning: watch sunrise on the bay, join a cooking class or tai chi on the deck. Visit a cave or fishing village. Light breakfast on the cruise. Check out cabin. Return to the pier. Car transfer to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi, check in hotel. Evening free to explore the Old Quarter or relax. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 5
Hanoi – Departure
After breakfast, free time for shopping, coffee, or additional sightseeing depending on flight time. Check out hotel. Car transfer to Noi Bai Airport or a meeting point in central Hanoi. End of program.
Included / Not Included
Included
- 04 nights accommodation: 02 nights in Hanoi, 01 night in Ninh Binh, 01 night on Ha Long Bay cruise
- Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the journey
- English-speaking guide
- Meals as per program
- Entrance fees: Temple of Literature, Trang An, Mua Cave, Sung Sot Cave
- Ha Long Bay cruise: cabin, meals, kayak, cooking class
- Bottled water on the vehicle
Not included
- Flights, visa
- Airport transfers if not specified
- Beverages on the cruise
- Tips
- Single room supplement, holiday surcharge
- Travel insurance