Vietnam Classic North: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay
Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
Overview
A 5-day, 4-night tour exploring three iconic destinations in Northern Vietnam: Hanoi – Old Quarter and street food, 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 limestone 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 on the bay, kayak to explore caves, and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner under the moonlight.
Why Choose This Tour
This is the easiest-selling classic tour in Northern Vietnam, suitable for first-time visitors to Vietnam. 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 floating 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 to hotel. Afternoon: stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge. Evening: walking food tour of the Old Quarter – enjoy pho bo, 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. Midday: lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon: climb Mua Cave for a panoramic view of Tam Coc. Check in to 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. Midday: lunch on the cruise as the journey to explore the bay begins. Afternoon: visit famous islands and caves: Sung Sot Cave, Fighting Cock Islet, Incense Burner Islet. Kayak or bamboo boat to explore the tranquil 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 session on the deck. Visit a cave or floating village. Light breakfast on the cruise. Check out of cabin. Return to the pier. Car picks you up for return to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi, check in to 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 of hotel. Car transfers you 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 car throughout the journey
- English-speaking guide on tour days
- Meals as per program: breakfast at accommodation, lunch/dinner according to schedule
- Entrance fees: Temple of Literature, Trang An, Mua Cave, Sung Sot Cave
- Ha Long Bay cruise: cabin, meals, kayak, cooking class
- Bottled water in car and operational support throughout the program
Not included
- International/domestic flights, visa and entry documents
- Airport transfers at Noi Bai if not specified
- Drinks on the cruise (outside meals), minibar, laundry
- Tips for guide, driver, and crew
- Single room supplement, cabin upgrade, and surcharge for holidays/Tet
- Personal travel insurance