Best Of Northern Vietnam 6 Days -

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Duration

6 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Halong Bay

Commencing in Hanoi and concluding in Halong Bay, the Best of Northern Vietnam 6-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region. This tour package encompasses a journey through Hanoi, Vietnam, and three additional captivating destinations within the country. Included in the Best of Northern Vietnam 6-day experience are accommodations in well-appointed hotels, guidance from a knowledgeable expert, meals, and transportation throughout the itinerary.

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 Indochina Royal 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

<span> Day 1</span> Hanoi Half day City tour

Embark on the initial day of the journey with a tour around Hanoi. Commence the exploration by departing from the hotel and heading to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's inaugural university, founded in 1076. Within this temple, Quoc Tu Giam was established to educate the country's royalty, mandarins, and elite members.

Proceed to the renowned One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic temple in Vietnam. Adjacent to it is the mausoleum housing the historic figure pivotal to modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, along with his unassuming stilt house. (Note: These sites are observed from the exterior, closed on Mondays and Fridays, and during June to August.)

Subsequently, visit the charming West Lake and the Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda, which dates back to the sixth century. Tran Quoc Pagoda stands as the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, boasting a history of over 1,500 years.

Conclude the morning with a meal at an authentic Vietnamese restaurant, followed by leisure time for the remainder of the day.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hanoi - Night train to Lao Cai

Embark on a captivating journey just a few hours' drive from Hanoi, venturing deep into the scenic countryside of Vietnam. Explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital during the Dinh and Le dynasties, before embarking on a tranquil sampan trip along the Tam Coc River. Often referred to as the 'Halong Bay on Land,' this area is renowned for its enchanting grottoes and limestone karst mountains.

Commence your day by departing from the hotel around 08:00 for a scenic 2-hour drive through the rural landscapes of northern Vietnam. Pause at Hoa Lu, where temples pay homage to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-80) and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980-1009).

If time permits after exploring Hoa Lu, consider a half-hour walk up one of the neighboring limestone karst hills—an invigorating climb offering spectacular views. (Please note that a moderate level of physical fitness is required.)

Continue to Tam Coc Town, where a delightful Vietnamese-style lunch awaits. Along the journey, there will be ample opportunities to capture photographs of charming villages and picturesque landscapes.

For the adventurous souls, ascend to the 15th-century Bich Dong Pagoda on the nearby Ngu Nhac Mountain, consisting of three structures: Ha, Trung, and Thuong Pagodas (in ascending order).

Subsequently, board the bus as our driver escorts you back to Hanoi.

Gather at your Hanoi hotel around 20:00 hrs for a transfer to Hanoi train station. Prepare for an overnight train journey to Lao Cai, sharing sleeping compartments with fellow passengers (2 lower & 2 upper berths per compartment). The train departs at approximately 21:15 hrs.

Notes:

Our tour guide will not accompany you during the train trip.
Train schedules are subject to change.
Private compartments are available upon request with a surcharge.
Train journeys offer an authentic local experience, sharing cabins with other passengers (unless a private cabin is requested and fully paid for, with a supplement). Restrooms at either end of the carriages complete the local experience.

Accommodation: Overnight train to Lao Cai

<span> Day 3</span> Lao Cai – Road transfer to Sapa – Y Linh Ho - Lao Chai - Ta Van - Sapa

Between 05:30 and 06:00, the arrival at Lao Cai Train Station marks the beginning of your day. A warm reception awaits you at the station, followed by a seamless transfer to Sapa. Early check-in is available upon arrival, subject to room availability (with an applicable surcharge). Take a moment to unwind and prepare for a full day of exploration.

At 9:30 am, meet your knowledgeable local guide to kick off the trekking adventure. The initial stretch follows the road before veering right onto a small path that leads down the valley to Y Linh Ho village, nestled by the Muong Hoa River. From here, proceed to the Black H’mong village of Lao Chai. The Black H’mong people, constituting one of the prominent minority groups in the Sapa region, boast their own language and distinctive indigo blue attire. Witness the transition in their way of life from nomadic to sedentary, evident in remnants such as rudimentary houses and stone walls around homes. The journey continues to Ta Van village (1,200 m), where you'll encounter the Zay people. The Zay community, numbering around 38,000 individuals, predominantly resides in the mountainous regions of Northwest Vietnam.

Following the visit to Ta Van village, the car will transport you back to Sapa. Enjoy leisure time for the remainder of the day, culminating in an overnight stay at a Sapa hotel.

Accommodation: Overnight in Sapa

<span> Day 4</span> Sapa - Cat Cat - Sin Chai - Sapa - Hanoi - Road transfer

Embark on a leisurely stroll towards the South-west of Sapa, covering a distance of approximately 3 km, to explore Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’mong people—a well-known ethnic community in Sapa. Unwind amidst the captivating scenery at the base of a splendid waterfall and the remnants of a hydroelectric power station, a relic from the French colonial era in Vietnam.

Indulge in a picnic lunch by the river, and then extend your trekking journey by 3 km to reach Sin Chai Village, situated at the foothills of Fansipan Mountain, often referred to as the "Roof of Indochina." Revel in the breathtaking landscapes of the majestic mountain.

Return to the main road for a jeep transfer covering 3 km to reach Sapa town.

Between 15:00 and 15:30, the driver will be at your service to transport you on a 5-hour journey back to Hanoi.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 5</span> Hanoi- Halong Bay Cruise Tour

Halong Bay has earned its prestigious recognition as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and has been acclaimed as one of the New7Wonders of Nature by the New7Wonders Foundation. Your overnight stay in this globally renowned bay is a truly exceptional experience.

Commencing the day with breakfast in Hanoi, you'll embark on a captivating 3-hour and 30-minute journey to Halong Bay. Upon reaching the jetty in Halong City around noon, proceed with the check-in procedures. Following a warm welcome aboard, savor a delectable lunch while the cruise sets sail through the mesmerizing bay. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in sightseeing, partake in on-board activities (depending on the boat's itinerary), or simply unwind and enjoy the serene ambiance on the vessel. As the day unfolds, the boat anchors among the breathtaking karst formations for the night. A delightful dinner is served on board.

Accommodation: Cruise in Halong Bay

For those who appreciate an early start, relish the opportunity to witness a remarkable sunrise casting its glow over the enchanting karst formations of Halong Bay. Following this awe-inspiring spectacle, a delightful breakfast will be promptly served.

Savor your breakfast (or brunch on select boats) as the vessel gracefully navigates through the captivating rock formations, making its way back to the port. Upon arrival at the harbor, a convenient transfer will be arranged to return you to Hanoi.

Conclude your journey with a drop-off at your hotel (please note that the hotel in Hanoi is not included).

Accommodation: NA

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, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Halong Bay

Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...

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4.9 (111 Reviews)

Best of Northern Vietnam 6 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi Half day City tour

Day 2 Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hanoi - Night train to Lao Cai

Day 3 Lao Cai – Road transfer to Sapa – Y Linh Ho - Lao Chai - Ta Van - Sapa

Day 4 Sapa - Cat Cat - Sin Chai - Sapa - Hanoi - Road transfer

Day 5 Hanoi- Halong Bay Cruise Tour

Day 6 Halong Bay- Hanoi

Durations

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Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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