Northern Vietnam Heritages 6 Days
Highlights
- Explore Hanoi’s iconic landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.
- Cruise through the stunning karst landscapes of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and cycle through scenic villages in Ninh Binh.
- Discover the serene beauty of Trang An, also known as “Halong Bay on land,” with its mesmerizing caves and lush landscapes.
- Experience the vibrant culture of Northern Vietnam’s ethnic minorities in breathtaking natural settings.
Full Itinerary
Welcome to Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, where the timeless charm of its French colonial heritage meets the energetic pulse of modern Asia. Here, you’ll find a fascinating mix of traditional architecture, tranquil lakes, and the hustle and bustle of motorbikes, all set against a backdrop of trendy restaurants, chic boutiques, and a dynamic cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be greeted with a welcome signboard bearing your name and whisked away in a private transfer to your selected hotel. Settle in and unwind, or step out to immerse yourself in the city’s unique energy and start exploring Hanoi’s captivating blend of old and new.
Overnight in Hanoi.
08:00 – 08:30: Begin your day with a hotel pickup by our guide and bus as we embark on a fascinating journey to explore Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks.
08:45: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the final resting place of Vietnam’s beloved leader, Uncle Ho. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see his embalmed body and stroll around the surrounding gardens, including the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969.
Next, explore the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique and historically significant structure dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy.
Important Notes:
- Modest attire is required when visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, temples, and pagodas (cover shoulders and knees).
- The Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, but you can still take photos of the exterior and explore the surrounding area.
- The Mausoleum also undergoes annual maintenance from June 15th to August 15th.
10:15: Head to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum, where you’ll discover the rich cultural heritage of the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam.
Special Note: If visiting on a Monday, we’ll substitute this with a visit to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum.
12:30 – 12:45: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Vegetarian options are available.
13:30: Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda on Golden Fish Island in West Lake, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, dating back to the 6th century.
14:30: Continue your exploration at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1070. This historical landmark is one of Northern Vietnam’s most famous tourist attractions.
15:30: End the afternoon at Hoa Lo Prison, also known as Maison Centrale during French colonial rule. This former prison, which earned the nickname “A Hell on Earth,” now serves as a museum shedding light on Vietnam’s struggle for independence from French rule.
16:30: After a full day of discovery, we’ll return to your hotel, concluding the tour.
Overnight in Hanoi.
07:00: Our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi for a scenic drive to Ninh Binh province, located 120 km south of the capital.
09:00: We’ll make a brief 20-minute stop to relax and stretch.
10:30: Begin your exploration with a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the first capital of Vietnam. Here, you’ll learn about the historical significance of Hoa Lu and why the capital was eventually moved to Hanoi. The temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, the first two emperors of Vietnam, will captivate you with their impressive 17th-century architecture. Immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere of this historical site.
11:30: Afterward, enjoy a leisurely 45-minute cycling tour around a picturesque village, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
12:30: Relish a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll have the chance to try regional specialties like goat meat and fried rice. Vegetarian options are also available.
13:30 – 14:00: Next, visit the stunning Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Known for its impressive cave system, Trang An served as a filming location for the 2016 movie “Kong: Skull Island.” Embark on a scenic boat ride through Trang An, navigating through fascinating caves such as Sang Cave (Light Cave), Toi Cave (Dark Cave), and Nau Ruou Cave (Cooking Wine Cave), all while taking in the lush greenery and tranquil waters of this spectacular landscape.
16:00: After an unforgettable day, board the bus for the return journey to Hanoi.
18:30 – 19:00: Arrive back in Hanoi, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or our office.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before our driver and tour guide pick you up for a scenic transfer to Hai Phong, where you’ll board your boat for an unforgettable overnight cruise through the stunning Halong Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly 2,000 karst limestone peaks that rise majestically from the emerald waters.
The bay’s serene beauty is complemented by lush forested islands, hidden caves, and a rich variety of birdlife, making it a must-see destination. Whether enveloped in mist or bathed in sunlight, a cruise through these captivating waters is one of Vietnam’s most unforgettable experiences.
Arriving in the late morning, you’ll be welcomed at the pier and board your boat for the overnight journey. Enjoy a delicious lunch served on board as you sail through Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay, passing by iconic rock formations and scenic vistas. As the sun begins to set, the boat will anchor, offering you a front-row seat to the breathtaking view. A relaxing dinner will follow, allowing you to unwind and take in the tranquil surroundings.
Overnight on the cruise.
Note: The itinerary may vary slightly depending on the specific cruise schedule.