Best Of North Vietnam

From: €361 4-star hotels

4.9

(124 reviews)

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Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay

Commence your journey in Hanoi and conclude in Halong Bay! Embark on the Active tour “Best of North Vietnam – 7 days,” a 7-day package that guides you through Hanoi, Vietnam, and two additional captivating destinations. This tour package encompasses accommodations in hotels, flights, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, insurance coverage, meals, transportation, and more.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Upon your arrival in Hanoi, your driver will be ready to welcome you at the airport. You'll be transferred to your hotel located in the city center for check-in. The remainder of the day is free for your leisure.

Please note:

The hotel room will be available by 2:00 pm. If you wish to secure an early check-in, an additional charge will be applied.

Airports, both international and domestic, can be busy at times. If you face difficulty finding our representatives, please proceed to Pole No.16 outside lobby A2 (International) or the Lobby of domestic arrival (Domestic flight) and get in touch with us. This will help us locate you easily.

Meals: Not Applicable

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 2</span> HANOI CITY TOUR - OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO SAPA

Today, we will dedicate a full day to exploring the city. Our journey begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and residence. Adjacent to it is the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, renowned for its unique architecture. After exploring the President's complex, our next stop is the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu). Although there are several Van Mieu sites across Vietnam, the most notable and prestigious one is located in Hanoi. It served as Vietnam's first university.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, we proceed to the Museum of Ethnology. This outstanding museum showcases ethnic costumes from various minorities in Vietnam. It houses relics, tools, and even life-size replicas of their homes and structures.

Return to the hotel and enjoy free time until the transfer to the train station for the overnight journey to Lao Cai (for Sapa). A driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi around 21:00 hrs, transferring you to Hanoi train station. The overnight train departs at approximately 22:00 hrs, and you will share sleeping compartments (2 lower and 2 upper berths per compartment) with other passengers.

Note*:

Late checkout at the hotel is not included.

Our tour guide will not accompany you during the train journey.

Train schedule is subject to change depending on availability.

Private compartments are available upon request at an additional cost.

Train journeys offer a unique local experience, and cabins are shared with other passengers unless a private cabin is requested and paid for (with a supplement). Restrooms are located at either end of the carriages.

Accommodation: Overnight train to Sapa

<span> Day 3</span> Y LINH HO - LAO CHAI - TA VAN VILLAGES TREKKING

Sa Pa stands as a serene mountain town, boasting a rich tapestry of ethnic minority communities. The majority of these communities engage in farming on the terraced slopes, as much of the land is characterized by its mountainous terrain. Rice and corn serve as their primary sustenance. The labor-intensive nature of rice cultivation underscores the daily struggle for survival. The distinctive climate in Sapa significantly influences the residents, with subtropical summers, temperate winters, and 160 misty days annually impacting agricultural yields and health.

05:30 ~ 06:00: Arrival at Lao Cai Train Station. You will be greeted at the train station and transferred to Sapa. Early check-in is possible upon room availability (additional charges may apply). Enjoy breakfast and take some time to relax before embarking on our full-day tour.

9:30 am: Meet your local guide and commence a 6 km trek, descending to the southeast of Sapa along the Muong Hoa valley to reach Y Linh Ho village of the Black H'mong. Continue with a 2 km trek to Lao Chai village, passing through terraced rice fields, and then proceed to Ta Van village of the Dzay minority. Along the way, gain insights into local agriculture practices and daily lifestyles. Lunch will be hosted by a local family, providing a valuable opportunity to learn about their unique house architecture, reflecting their daily routines and distinct customs. Return to Sapa by jeep or motorbike.

Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa

<span> Day 4</span> CAT CAT - SIN CHAI VILLAGES TREKKING - BUS TO HANOI

08:30: Hotel pickup marks the beginning of our journey. Embark on a scenic walk towards the southwest of Sapa, covering approximately 4 km, to reach Cat Cat village, home to the Black H'mong ethnic group. Take in the beauty of a mesmerizing waterfall and explore the remnants of a hydroelectric power station dating back to the French colonial era in Vietnam. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch along the riverbank, followed by a 6 km trek to Sin Chai village nestled at the base of Fansipan Mountain, often referred to as the "Roof of Vietnam and Indochina." Marvel at the vast and breathtaking landscapes before ascending on the return journey to Sapa.

Afterward, you have free time to explore the town until the bus transfer to Hanoi, departing at 3:00 pm. Anticipate arrival in Hanoi around 9:00 pm.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 5</span> HANOI - HALONG BAY - NIGHT ON BOARD

08:00: Your hotel in Hanoi is the starting point for your adventure. Embark on a scenic journey to Halong City, weaving through picturesque paddy fields in the Red River Delta.

10:00: Take a refreshing break during the journey.

12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau wharf, a perfect opportunity for a break and photography session.

12:30: Board the cruise, where a welcome drink awaits.

13:00: Relish lunch while cruising through the captivating bay.

15:30: Explore the fascinating Cua Van fishing village. This village is a peaceful enclave devoid of busy roads, electric lights, and towering buildings. Immerse yourself in the traditional culture and customs of the fishermen.

16:30: Enjoy kayaking or swimming, weather permitting.

17:00: Return to the cruise and continue the journey.

19:00: Savor a delightful dinner on board.

21:00: Utilize some leisure time for conversations at the bar or partake in night fishing.

Note: The specific itinerary and onboard activities may vary based on your chosen boat. Please refer to the boat options in the Hotel Inclusions.

Accommodation: Overnight on board

07:00: Indulge in a serving of coffee and tea.

08:00: Resume the enchanting cruise.

08:15: Explore the magnificent Sung Sot Cave.

09:00: Check out and relish a breathtaking cruise through Halong Bay, passing notable landmarks such as Dinh Huong Island, fishing villages, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, and Sail Island.

09:30: Delight in a buffet brunch (a combination of breakfast and lunch) while cruising back to the pier.

11:30: Reach the pier, bidding farewell to the crew.

12:00: Depart from Halong and return to Hanoi. Anticipate arrival in Hanoi at around 17:00.

Note: The specific itinerary and onboard activities may vary based on your chosen boat. Please refer to the boat options in the Hotel Inclusions.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Enjoy some leisure time until our transfer service arrives at your hotel to take you to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the conclusion of your journey.

Note: Depending on your flight schedule, our airport transfer will be arranged accordingly, allowing for 2.5 hours for domestic flights and 3.5 hours for international flights.

Accommodation: Not Applicable

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay

Vietnam Fine Arts Museum - 🎨 Vietnam Fine Arts Museum – Where the Soul of Vietnamese Art Comes Alive 🇻🇳 📍 Address: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi🕘 Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM🎟️ Entrance Fee: Around 40,000 VND for adults (discounts available for students & children)🌐 Website: vnfam.vn 🏛️ A Treasure Trove of Vietnamese Creativity Just a short stroll southwest of the Vietnam Military History Museum, the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum (Bảo tàng Mỹ thuật Việt Nam) is one of Hanoi’s most inspiring cultural stops. Set inside a charming three-story colonial building with signature chocolate-brown shutters, this museum showcases the incredible journey of Vietnamese art — from prehistoric relics to modern masterpieces. Originally established in 1966, the museum was once a French girls’ boarding school before being transformed into a national gallery. Today, it stands as Vietnam’s premier collection of fine art, reflecting the country’s deep cultural roots, spiritual traditions, and the creative evolution shaped by centuries of history. 🖌️ From Bronze Drums to Modern Brushstrokes The museum’s exhibits are arranged chronologically, allowing visitors to follow the flow of Vietnamese art through time. It’s like stepping into a visual history book — each floor reveals a new chapter of the nation’s artistic spirit. 🪶 1. Ancient & Early Vietnamese Art The journey begins with Dong Son culture artifacts — intricately decorated bronze drums, tools, and ceremonial figures dating back over 2,000 years. These remarkable items highlight Vietnam’s early artistic achievements and its connection to agriculture, music, and spiritual life. Next, you’ll encounter Cham sculptures and Angkor-style carvings depicting celestial dancers and Hindu deities. Their elegance and rhythm are breathtaking — proof that art in Vietnam has always been deeply intertwined with religion and mythology. 🪷 2. Buddhist and Imperial Art (17th–19th Centuries) One of the most striking sections features Buddhist art from the 17th and 18th centuries — an era often called the golden age of temple sculpture. ✨ Don’t miss the wooden statues from Tay Phuong Pagoda, famous for their lifelike expressions and intricate carving. These figures, once worshiped in ancient temples, seem almost alive, capturing moments of meditation, serenity, and enlightenment. You’ll also find imperial lacquerware, silk paintings, and altarpieces from the Nguyen dynasty — beautifully preserved works that reflect the aesthetics of Vietnam’s last royal court. 🌾 3. Folk Art and Ethnic Diversity Moving up through the museum, the energy shifts from solemn temple art to the vivid colors of Vietnamese folk art. 🐓 Dong Ho woodblock prints from Bac Ninh Province are particularly delightful — playful yet philosophical, these traditional prints depict scenes of rural life, legends, and moral lessons. There’s also a fascinating section on ethnic minority art, displaying textiles, masks, and ritual objects from groups such as the Tay, Hmong, and Thai peoples. Together, they paint a vivid picture of Vietnam’s incredible cultural mosaic. 🖼️ 4. Twentieth-Century and Contemporary Art The final floors of the museum reveal Vietnam’s journey through colonialism, revolution, and modernization — all reflected through its evolving art styles. 🎨 Early 20th-century works show the influence of French realism and impressionism, as Vietnamese painters studied at the École des Beaux-Arts de l’Indochine in Hanoi. Artists like To Ngoc Van, Nguyen Phan Chanh, and Bui Xuan Phai became pioneers of modern Vietnamese painting, blending European techniques with traditional subjects. Post-1954, during the war years, Socialist Realism dominated — paintings of workers, soldiers, and farmers proudly portrayed the nation’s collective spirit. But since the 1990s, a new generation of artists has emerged, embracing experimental and global influences while maintaining a distinctly Vietnamese voice. Expect to see striking modern installations, abstract works, and mixed-media pieces that reflect themes of identity, resilience, and rapid change in 21st-century Vietnam. 🌟 Why You’ll Love Visiting the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum This isn’t just a place for art lovers — it’s a visual diary of Vietnamese history and culture. Each floor captures the country’s shifting identity, from spiritual devotion to modern expression. 💡 Reasons to visit: 🧭 The most comprehensive fine art collection in Vietnam. 🪷 Beautifully restored colonial architecture. 🖼️ Well-organized exhibits with bilingual information (Vietnamese & English). 📸 A peaceful atmosphere perfect for contemplation and photography. ☕ A cozy museum café nearby where you can relax after your visit. 🧭 How to Plan Your Visit in 2025 🕗 Opening Hours:Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry around 4:30 PM). 🎟️ Ticket Price (as of 2025): Adults: 40,000 VND (~$1.50 USD) Students: 20,000 VND Children: Free entry 💬 Guided Tours:English-speaking guides are available upon request, or you can rent an audio guide for a small fee. This is highly recommended if you want deeper insights into each collection. 🚗 Getting There:The museum is centrally located — about a 10-minute drive from Hanoi Old Quarter or a pleasant 20-minute walk past the Temple of Literature. You can take a Grab, taxi, or even cycle there if you’re feeling adventurous. 📍 Nearby Attractions to Combine If you plan your day well, you can easily explore several nearby landmarks: 🏯 Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu): Just a few blocks away — perfect to pair with your art exploration. 🪖 Vietnam Military History Museum: Learn about the country’s heroic struggles. ☕ Nguyen Thai Hoc Street Cafés: Lined with small coffee shops and local eateries where you can unwind with an iced coffee after your museum tour. 🖋️ Insider Tips for 2025 Visitors ✨ Best Time to Visit:Go in the morning to enjoy soft light through the museum’s tall windows — it makes photography magical. 📸 Photo Policy:Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash is restricted. Be respectful around religious statues and ancient artifacts. 🎨 Souvenir Shop:Don’t skip the gift shop! You can find beautiful art books, postcards, and limited-edition prints by contemporary Vietnamese artists. 🧘 Travel Tip:Pair your visit with a stop at The Note Coffee or Cong Caphe nearby — they both make for relaxing spots to reflect on the artistic treasures you’ve just seen. ❤️ Final Thoughts: Where Vietnam’s Heart Beats in Color...B-52 Victory Museum - 🛩️ B-52 Victory Museum in Hanoi: Reliving “Dien Bien Phu in the Air” 🇻🇳 📍 Address: 157 Doi Can Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi🕘 Opening Hours: Tuesday–Thursday, Saturday & Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free🌐 Official Website: baotangchienthangb52.com.vn ✈️ A Patriotic Landmark in the Heart of Hanoi If you’re fascinated by military history or simply want to understand how Vietnam remembers one of the most intense chapters of the 20th century, the B-52 Victory Museum (Bảo tàng Chiến thắng B-52) is an essential stop on your Hanoi itinerary. Tucked away in the quiet Ba Dinh District, this patriotic museum commemorates Vietnam’s remarkable defense during the December 1972 air campaign, known internationally as the “Christmas Bombings” and locally as “Dien Bien Phu in the Air.” It’s here that visitors can witness firsthand the remnants of the war that reshaped global history. 💥 The Story Behind the “B-52 Victory” Between December 18 and 29, 1972, U.S. President Richard Nixon launched Operation Linebacker II, an intense bombing campaign targeting Hanoi and other major northern cities. Over 15,000 tons of bombs were dropped within just 12 days, devastating parts of the capital — including hospitals, schools, and residential neighborhoods. However, the Vietnamese forces stood firm. In one of the most dramatic moments of the war, 15 American B-52 bombers were shot down, a feat that became a powerful symbol of resistance. This turning point strengthened Vietnam’s position during peace talks and marked the beginning of the end of the war. The Vietnamese call it “Dien Bien Phu tren khong” — “Dien Bien Phu in the Air” — drawing a direct comparison to the historic 1954 victory that ended French colonial rule. 🏛️ Inside the B-52 Victory Museum As you step inside, you’ll notice that this isn’t your typical war museum filled only with facts and figures. It’s a deeply emotional and symbolic tribute to Vietnamese resilience and unity. ✨ Highlights include: 🧱 Wreckage of a real B-52 bomber, dramatically displayed in the courtyard. 🖼️ Photographs and documents detailing the December 1972 bombings. 🎖️ Artifacts from the Vietnamese air defense units, including missiles, radar equipment, and uniforms. 🎬 Video presentations explaining how the downing of the B-52s influenced the end of the war. One of the most moving exhibits is the section dedicated to the lives lost during the bombings, showcasing both the tragedy and the determination of Hanoi’s citizens during those dark days. 🌊 Don’t Miss: Huu Tiep Lake (B-52 Lake) Just a short walk away from the museum lies Huu Tiep Lake, a small, peaceful pond with a massive piece of twisted metal rising from the water — the remains of a downed B-52. 🪶 Surrounded by quiet homes and small cafes, the site is haunting yet beautiful. Locals still refer to it simply as “the B-52 Lake,” and it serves as a poignant reminder of how war and daily life once collided in the heart of Hanoi. If you visit both the museum and the lake, you’ll get a complete picture of this historic event — from the strategic overview to the very real scars it left on the city. 📸 Tips for Visiting in 2025 🕓 Plan your visit early: The museum closes by 4:30 PM, so mornings are best for fewer crowds and better light for photography. 🎧 Take a guide or download an audio tour: Some exhibits are labeled in Vietnamese only, but English-speaking guides or online resources can help bring the stories to life. ☕ Combine with nearby attractions: The museum sits between Ba Dinh Square and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, making it easy to include all three in a half-day cultural trip. 📱 Check for temporary exhibits: As of 2025, the museum occasionally features new digital installations and short documentaries about aerial warfare and international peacekeeping missions. 🚖 How to get there: A quick Grab or taxi ride from Hanoi Old Quarter takes about 15 minutes. Parking for scooters is also available onsite. ❤️ Why You Should Visit The B-52 Victory Museum is not only about old aircraft and dusty archives — it’s about Vietnam’s enduring spirit. Walking through the exhibits, you can sense the pride and pain of a people who refused to surrender, even in the face of overwhelming odds. For history lovers, photographers, and curious travelers alike, this museum offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into Hanoi’s wartime past, framed through a uniquely Vietnamese perspective. So next time you’re in Hanoi, take a step off the beaten tourist path — and spend an hour or two exploring this powerful piece of living history. 🇻🇳✨ 🌐 Quick Summary Category Details Location 157 Doi Can Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi Hours Tues–Thurs, Sat & Sun: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Ticket Free entry Highlights B-52 wreckage, air defense exhibits, photos & documents Nearby Ba Dinh Square, Huu Tiep Lake, Museum of Ethnology

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From: €361

4-star hotels

4.9 (124 Reviews)

Best of North Vietnam – 7 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 HANOI ARRIVAL

Day 2 HANOI CITY TOUR - OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO SAPA

Day 3 Y LINH HO - LAO CHAI - TA VAN VILLAGES TREKKING

Day 4 CAT CAT - SIN CHAI VILLAGES TREKKING - BUS TO HANOI

Day 5 HANOI - HALONG BAY - NIGHT ON BOARD

Day 6 HALONG BAY - HANOI

Day 7 HANOI DEPARTURE

Durations

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