9 Days in Northern Vietnam

8:00 - 8:30: Meet your driver and tour guide at the hotel for the Hoa Lu - Tam Coc tour. Enjoy a refreshing break halfway through the journey to stretch your legs and capture the picturesque countryside with your camera. Continue the trip to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th century, ruled by the Dinh and Le Dynasties. Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and architecture of Vietnam as you explore the temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le. Indulge in a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, featuring a variety of delicious Vietnamese dishes, including the famous goat meat of Ninh Binh. After lunch, your guide will provide insights about Tam Coc before embarking on a peaceful rowing boat adventure along the Ngo Dong River. Sail through the mesmerizing landscapes of three caves - Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba - often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land." Encounter local farmers working in the rice fields, allowing you to witness the serene countryside life of Vietnam. Conclude the Tam Coc experience and hop on bicycles to traverse paddy fields and local villages, immersing yourself in the simplicity of everyday life. 16:00: Return to the bus and begin the journey back to Hanoi, bidding farewell to this charming destination. 18:30: Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter. Overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi.

Today, you have the morning free to explore Hanoi at your leisure until 6:00 PM. At that time, your tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to our meeting point to start the exciting journey of discovering Hanoi's local street food. Embark on a leisurely walk through the charming old streets, immersing yourself in the historical and cultural sites of Hanoi. Visit the Heritage House to gain insights into the traditional architecture of ancient Hanoi. Indulge in the famous "Bánh Cuốn" (steamed rice rolls) at a renowned local restaurant. These delicate rolls are made from rice flour and filled with a savory mixture of ground pork and ear mushrooms. Continue your culinary adventure with a stop at a traditional space to savor the delightful "Che" (sweet gruel), a popular and delectable sweet soup in Hanoi's old quarter. Experience the heavenly taste of authentic Hanoi cuisine with a bowl of Pho, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup. Delight in the flavors and textures that make it a beloved dish worldwide. Explore a local market and witness the vibrant display of various products, providing fascinating insights into the lifestyle and culture of the local people. Indulge in the absolute highlight of Hanoi's culinary scene, Bun Cha (Vermicelli with grilled pork), a must-try dish that represents the essence of local cuisine. Immerse yourself in the true Hanoian atmosphere by enjoying a refreshing cup of "Bia Hoi" (Fresh beer) at a cozy corner of Hanoi. Finally, savor the unique flavor of Vietnamese culture with a cup of "Cafe Trung" (egg coffee), a delightful specialty that you must experience. At 9:00 PM, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. Overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi.

8:00 - 8:30 am: Meet your tour guide at the hotel and begin your journey to Halong Bay. Enjoy a short break halfway to relax before arriving at the bay. After checking into your cabin on the cruise, indulge in a delectable Vietnamese lunch while cruising through the picturesque bay. Explore the enchanting Surprising Cave, the largest and most beautiful cave in the bay. Take your time to leisurely hike and swim at the pristine beach of Titop Island. Return to the boat for a Sunset Party, complete with refreshing fruits and local wine. Savor a delicious dinner featuring local specialties and enjoy a free evening to immerse yourself in the beauty of Halong Bay. Overnight on the cruise.

Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over Halong Bay. After breakfast, embark on a kayaking adventure to explore the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay. Participate in a Cooking Demonstration on the cruise and learn the art of making Vietnamese Spring Rolls. Enjoy a delicious lunch as you cruise back to the harbor. Board the bus and return to Hanoi. 17:00: Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi. Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi.

Today, you have free time to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the local life, culture, and customs while indulging in various local delicacies. 17:00: Your guide will accompany you to the Water Puppet Theatre for an enchanting traditional show. Afterward, you can return to the hotel on your own. Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi.

Embark on a 12km trekking adventure through the picturesque terrace fields to reach the homestay. 06:30: Arrive at the designated pick-up point where our friendly bus staff will welcome you aboard the sleeper bus. Depart for Sapa, with a short break along the way. 12:30 pm: Upon arrival in Sapa, our knowledgeable guide will greet you and begin the Real Sapa Experience. Start by exploring the town of Sapa, immersing yourself in the local daily life and architectural beauty. Wander through the terrace rice, corn, and potato fields, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the stunning natural landscapes. Interact with the welcoming locals who will gladly share their customs and traditions, giving you an authentic, non-touristy experience. Continue the trekking journey through the villages, gaining deeper insights into the lives of the ethnic minorities in Sapa. Experience their simple houses, way of life, and genuine hospitality that will make you wish to stay longer. Along the trekking route, be captivated by the sight of cascading terrace fields and take a delightful break near a charming waterfall, perfect for relaxation and photography. Arrive at the guide's house, where you will be welcomed as a long-lost family member. If you wish, you can join in preparing dinner with the family, picking fresh vegetables from the garden and cooking local dishes together while sharing stories and creating lasting memories. Evening time is the most magical, as you fully immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of the local family. Embrace the opportunity to learn and exchange cultural experiences, as the host joyfully shares their stories with you. Overnight at the guide's house, embracing the genuine hospitality of Sapa.

Start your day by witnessing the host's morning routine, as they prepare breakfast and invite you to join them. You have two options: Embark on a trek to explore the neighboring villages, immersing yourself in the captivating bamboo forests and terrace fields. Alternatively, express your interest to your guide in participating in activities such as harvesting, planting, or tending to the family's fields. Return to Sapa town by shuttle bus. Enjoy some free time to visit the local market in Sapa town and explore its charming streets at your own pace before returning to Hanoi. 15:30: Board the sleeper bus for the return journey to Hanoi. 21:30: Arrive in Hanoi. The shuttle bus will transfer you back to your hotel/stay in Hanoi's Old Quarter. Overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

Today, you have leisure time to unwind and indulge in some shopping for souvenirs for your loved ones. Later, our driver will transfer you to Hanoi airport for your onward flight. If you wish to extend your trip, kindly inform us in advance. Thank you for choosing our services, and we hope you had a wonderful time exploring Vietnam. Safe travels!