8 Days Exploring Vietnam From North to South

Hanoi City Tour Activities: Embark on a journey to explore the historical, cultural, and architectural treasures of Vietnam. Our itinerary includes visits to prominent landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Complex, featuring the President's Mausoleum (closed on Mondays and Fridays), the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda. We then proceed to the Temple of Literature, renowned as Vietnam's first university, established in 1070 during the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius, as well as scholars like Chu Van An and numerous doctorate holders from the Mac and Le dynasties.

After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, our afternoon continues with a visit to the Water Puppet Show, showcasing traditional Vietnamese artistry. We conclude the day with a stroll to the Saint Joseph Cathedral, an architectural gem erected in 1886.

Hanoi - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc: Begin the day by arriving at Hoa Lu and exploring the enchanting Tam Coc grottoes, followed by a return to Hanoi and a journey to Sapa by train.

Itinerary: Commence the day's adventure by reaching Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh province, approximately a 3-hour drive from Hanoi. In Tam Coc, experience a sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, navigating through the Tam Coc grottoes. The landscape unfolds with lush green hills and rice fields at their base. The fields, mirroring the changing seasons, transition from green before harvest to golden yellow during harvesting.

Bid farewell to Tam Coc as we proceed to Hoa Lu, once the capital of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties. Explore the Dinh-Le Sanctuary, featuring statues of emperors and other historical relics. Afterward, return to Hanoi, where a private car and guide await to transfer you to Hanoi train station for an overnight journey to Sapa.

Lao Cai - Sapa Exploration: Begin the day upon arrival in Lao Cai, venture into Sapa, and discover the Cat Cat villages. Engage with various ethnic minorities, gaining insights into their cultures.

Itinerary: As you step into Lao Cai and transition to Sapa, you'll immediately sense the unique, chilly beauty of this region, home to diverse ethnic groups. Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant, savoring Vietnamese noodles before immersing yourself in the bustling local market. This vibrant marketplace offers a plethora of goods, from traditional clothing and intricately decorated bracers to crafts. Engage with local minorities, learning more about their daily lives and traditions.

Proceed to the Cat Cat villages, where you'll encounter members of the H'Mong tribe. Take a leisurely stroll through the valley beneath Sapa to explore additional areas and meet other ethnic minorities. After a fulfilling day, savor lunch and check in to your hotel in the afternoon. Relax and continue your exploration of Sapa. Overnight in Sapa.

Sapa Trekking - Return to Hanoi by Night Train: Embark on an exploration of the Sapa surroundings, visiting the villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van, before taking the night train back to Hanoi.

Itinerary: Today's adventure takes us deeper into the Sapa region, with visits to the picturesque villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van. Lao Chai village, nestled in a serene setting, provides an opportunity to encounter the Black H'Mong minority people and gain insights into their traditions and customs. Adjacent to Lao Chai is Ta Van village, inhabited by the Giay minority. While interacting with the locals, marvel at the vast terraced fields and wooden bridges, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. After an enriching day, you'll board the night train bound for Hanoi.

Upon early morning arrival in Hanoi, you can independently check into a nearby mini hotel close to the train station for rest and breakfast. Around 8:00 AM, our designated driver will arrive to pick you up for the journey to Halong Bay. During the approximately 25-minute break en route, you can relax. Upon reaching Halong at around 12:00 noon, board the deluxe junk, where a welcome drink awaits, and savor a delightful lunch featuring local seafood. Embark on a cruise around the bay, marveling at the stunning karsts with distinctive formations such as the Lion, Tea Pot, Toad, and Dau Nguoi (Human Head) islets. The boat makes a stop at Titop Island, allowing you an hour for exploration, climbing, and swimming. If weather conditions permit, indulge in ample time for swimming and sunbathing in the serene sea after the boat anchors. Conclude the day with a splendid sunset dinner in our exquisite restaurant before retiring to the comfort of your cabin. Experience an overnight stay on the boat.

Halong Bay - Hanoi

Activities: Tai Chi on Sundeck, Surprise Cave

Itinerary: Commence your morning with a session of Tai Chi on the sundeck, accompanied by complimentary tea and coffee service. As the boat traverses the bay, you'll pass by enchanting spots like Trong (Drum), Trinh Nu (Virgin), and Me Cung Caves, Coc Ngoi (Toad) Islet, and more. Explore the Surprise Cave (Sung Sot) and savor a buffet brunch served on board. The vessel then gracefully cruises back to the harbor. Return to Halong City around noon and transfer back to Hanoi City, marking the conclusion of the tour.

Hanoi Departure

Activities: N/A

Enjoy a free day for shopping and make preparations for your return flight.