Legendary Landscapes: Exploring the Wonders of Northern Vietnam
HA NOI – NINH BINH – LAN HA BAY
Time: 5 Days – 4 Nights
Vehicle: Car and Cruise
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day | DATE | ITNERARY | MEAL |
1 |
| HANOI ARIVAL | (-/-/-) |
2 |
| HANOI: The Soul of Hanoi’s Heritage (GROUP TOUR) | (B/L/-) |
3 |
| NINH BINH: HOA LU – TAM COC - CYCLING (GROUP TOUR) | (B/L/-) |
4 |
| LAN HA BAY (HERA 5-STARS DAY CRUISE) | (B/L/-) |
5 |
| HANOI DEPARTURE | (B) |
DAY 1: WELCOME TO HANOI
Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival at NOI BAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Overnight in Hanoi
DAY 2: HANOI: The Soul of Hanoi’s Heritage
Begin your exploration of the thousand-year-old capital at the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi located on a small peninsula of West Lake. Continue to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you will pay your respects at the Mausoleum, visit the humble House-on-Stilts, and admire the unique architecture of the One Pillar Pagoda. In the afternoon, dive into the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups at the Museum of Ethnology (Note: On Mondays, this visit is replaced by the Vietnamese Women’s Museum as the former is closed).
The journey continues to the Temple of Literature, the nation’s first university, to admire its tranquil courtyards and profound scholarly history. Conclude the historical circuit at the Hoa Lo Prison Relic, a poignant site reflecting the country’s colonial past and the resilience of its people.
Optional: To enhance your experience, you may choose to enjoy a traditional Cyclo ride through the bustling 36 streets of the Old Quarter or enjoy a world-famous Water Puppet Show, a unique folk art performance that brings Vietnamese legends to life.
Overnight in Hanoi.
DAY 3: NINH BINH: HOA LU – TAM COC - CYCLING (GT)
Morning: Ancient Capital & Local Gastronomy
Travel south of Hanoi to Ninh Binh province to visit Hoa Lu, the historic capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. Explore the ancient temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, gaining deep insights into the country’s early struggles for independence and its foundational dynasties. Following the historical tour, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties such as savory goat meat and elderberry rice.
Afternoon: Inland Halong Bay & Rural Cycling
In the afternoon, board a hand-rowed sampan boat for a poetic journey through Tam Coc, often referred to as "Halong Bay on Land." Glide along the Ngo Dong River as it winds through towering limestone karsts and three majestic natural caves. To wrap up the day’s adventure, enjoy a leisurely cycling trip along quiet village paths. This ride offers an intimate look at the peaceful Northern countryside, passing through emerald rice paddies and rustic local homes before returning to Hanoi.
Overnight in Hanoi
DAY 4: LAN HA BAY (HERA 5-STARS DAY CRUISE)
Morning: Luxury Embarkation and Pristine Landscapes
Your journey begins with a departure from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Marina, where you will board the Hera Luxury Day Cruise. As the vessel sets sail, enjoy a warm welcome and a premium gourmet lunch while cruising through the magnificent limestone karsts of Lan Ha Bay. Unlike the busier routes, this journey takes you through a more secluded and tranquil area of the bay, characterized by emerald waters and untouched white sand beaches.
Afternoon: Marine Adventure and Sunset Relaxation
In the afternoon, dive into the bay’s natural wonders with a kayaking or bamboo boat excursion through hidden lagoons and dark-and-bright caves. Afterward, return to the cruise to unwind on the spacious sundeck. You can participate in a cooking demonstration to learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine or simply relax in the outdoor Jacuzzi while the ship passes through iconic landmarks like the Ba Trai Dao area. The day concludes with a delightful Sunset Party, featuring tea and snacks, as the cruise returns to the harbor for your transfer back to Hanoi.
Overnight in Hanoi
DAY 5: HANOI DEPARTURE
After breakfast, enjoy free time at leisure until transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your onward departure. End of services.
TOUR PRICE USD/PERSON (Minium 2 persons)
Options
Price
3-star hotels*
280$
4-star hotels*
345$
NOTE
E-Visa fee: 40USD
INCLUDED:
- Accommodation as described in program
- Airport Private Transfers
- Boat trips as described in program
- Daily breakfast in accommodation
- English speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees & excursions as per tour program
- Meals as specified in tour program (B,L,D)
- Mineral water during excursions
- Bus transfer in air conditioned car
- Travel Insurance
NOT INCLUDED:
- Airfare
- Evisa
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned above
- Other meals
- 5% VAT
- International bank transfer fees
- Tips for driver & guide
