Best Of Northern Vietnam 9 Days 8 Nights -

From: €469 4-star hotels

4.9

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Duration

9 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Ba Be National Park, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island

Embark on a journey that commences and concludes in Hanoi! The Best of Northern Vietnam 9 days 8 nights is an active tour package spanning 9 days, guiding you through Hanoi and 7 other captivating destinations in Vietnam. This inclusive package features accommodations in hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, 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 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 - Ba Be National Park

Your guide and driver will rendezvous with you at your Hanoi hotel. The expedition commences as you bid farewell to the cityscape, traversing the rolling landscapes adorned with tea plantations and idyllic villages along the route. This initial encounter introduces you to the charm of rural Vietnam, providing a glimpse of what lies ahead in the coming days. The journey to Ba Be is anticipated to conclude in the mid to late afternoon, contingent upon the road conditions and traffic. Upon arrival at Mr. Linh’s Homestay, you'll have leisure time to wander or unwind by the tranquil lake.

Highlighted features and activities: Ba Be Lake, a 2 - 3 km trek

<span> Day 2</span> Ba Be lake - Na Hang - Ha Giang

Ba Be National Park is centered around the expansive expanse of Ba Be Lake, a singular continuous water reservoir despite its name implying three lakes. Technically, it comprises three smaller lakes. Today's exploration involves a boat excursion around the lake, offering the optimal perspective to unveil the park's splendor. En route, there will be halts at hill tribe villages, culminating in a visit to the Dau Dang Waterfall. Following a brief descent to the waterfall, you'll embark on a trek to Na Hang Lake, breaking for lunch along the trail. Post-lunch, the journey continues on the boat, meandering along the river to Bac Me, where your driver awaits to transport you to Ha Giang. The evening unfolds with dinner and an overnight stay in a homestay in Ha Giang.

Highlighted features and activities: Dau Dang waterfall, Na Hang, Bac Me, a 3-5 km trek

<span> Day 3</span> Trekking in Ha Giang

Embark on a captivating trek today, navigating the breathtaking landscapes for approximately five to six hours towards Nam Hong Village. The trail offers mesmerizing panoramas of rice terraces, mountains, and bamboo forests. Encounter locals from diverse ethnic minority communities along the way, such as the Man and Ta Pan Dao. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings before progressing to the secluded village of Ta Pan Man. Witness farmers cultivating the fields, and perhaps engage in some hands-on experience with their agricultural activities. Return to the homestay in the village for a hearty dinner and an overnight stay.

Highlighted features and activities: Nam Hong village, Ta Pan Dao, Ta Pan Man, a 15 - 17 km trek

Due to the region being under military supervision, obtaining a travel permit in Ha Giang is a prerequisite, and your guide will assist you in this process. Subsequently, you'll embark on a scenic journey traversing through a sequence of dizzying and striking mountain passes en route to Dong Van. A lunch break awaits you in the quaint mountain town of Tam Son. Continuing, you'll pass through an expansive pine forest to explore the Hmong King's Palace, a historical structure constructed by Vuong Chinh Duc during his collaboration with the French. By approximately 18:00, you'll reach Dong Van, where dinner will be served at a local restaurant, and your overnight stay arranged in a hotel.

Highlighted features and activities: Dong Van, King's Palace, a 2 - 3 km trek

<span> Day 5</span> Dong Van - Meo Vac - Cao Bang

Following breakfast, on a Sunday, a visit to Dong Van Market is in store, providing an opportunity to witness the vibrant local trade where residents from nearby villages gather to exchange fresh produce and handcrafted items. Following this, a trip to the well-preserved French fortress, Pu Lo, built in 1980 and inhabited until 1945, is on the agenda. The journey continues along the awe-inspiring Ma Pi Leng Pass, situated at an elevation of 2000 meters, offering unparalleled panoramic views of valleys, rice terraces, and hemp fields. Descending into the Meo Vac valley, the road leads to Bao Lac for lunch. Post-lunch, the expedition proceeds to Cao Bang, where accommodation has been arranged for the night at a hotel.

Highlighted features and activities: Pu Lo fortress, Ma Pi Leng Pass, a 2 - 3 km trek

<span> Day 6</span> Ban Gioc Waterfall - Lang Son

Following breakfast, embark on a journey to Ban Gioc Waterfall, a majestic natural wonder nestled on the border between China and Vietnam. Located 85km from Cao Bang, the route showcases captivating landscapes. Ban Gioc stands as one of Vietnam's largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls. A delightful picnic lunch awaits you. Following this, explore Nguom Ngao, an expansive cave adorned with captivating rock formations on walls and ceilings. Return to Cao Bang and proceed to Lang Son. Enjoy some leisure time before dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Lang Son.

Highlighted features and activities: Ban Gioc waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave, a 2 - 3 km trek

<span> Day 7</span> Lang Son - Halong Bay

Embark on the Ultimate North Vietnam Experience, venturing from Lang Son to Ha Long Bay with a scenic four-hour drive. Upon arrival, board a boat to immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings while savoring a delectable Vietnamese lunch. Cruise past the key attractions of Ha Long Bay, and in the afternoon, drop anchor to explore the mesmerizing Sung Sot (Surprising) Cave. Take the opportunity to kayak or swim, and unwind on deck as the sunset paints the sky. A delightful dinner awaits, followed by your choice of activities—be it drinks, karaoke, or fishing.

Highlighted features and activities: Ha Long Bay, Surprising Cave, a 2 - 3 km trek

<span> Day 8</span> Halong Bay - Cat Ba Island

Embark on the Ultimate North Vietnam Experience with a kayaking adventure in Halong Bay, Vietnam.

For early risers, the sunrise over Ha Long Bay is a breathtaking spectacle. Travel by boat to Gia Luan Harbour on Cat Ba Island, then drive through Cat Ba National Park, immersing yourself in the tropical flora and fauna. At Ben Beo Harbour, take a boat trip through Lan Ha Bay, exploring Cai Beo Village—one of the oldest floating villages in Vietnam. Check into a bungalow at Cat Ong Beach, relish lunch in the beach restaurant, and enjoy free time in the afternoon. Engage in activities like kayaking, football, or volleyball, or opt for a leisurely exploration of the island. A picturesque walk up the mountain provides panoramic views of Monkey Island and Lan Ha Bay. If luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of monkeys playing on the beach. Spend the night in the comfort of a bungalow.

Highlighted features and activities: Cat Ba National Park, Lan Ha Bay, a 2 - 3 km trek

<span> Day 9</span> Cat Ba Island - Ha Noi

Embark on the Ultimate North Vietnam Experience with a stay at Monkey Island Resort.

For those who enjoy morning activities, kickstart your day with beach exercises or a refreshing dip in the sea before relishing breakfast. Following breakfast, board a boat back to Cat Ba town and then catch a bus to Gia Luan Pier. From there, embark on another boat journey to return to Ha Long Bay. This boat will take you along a different route, providing another opportunity to appreciate the stunning islets and dramatic scenery. Upon reaching Ha Long Bay, drive back to Hanoi, where your memorable journey concludes.

Highlighted features and activities: Cat Ba town, Halong Bay, Hanoi

Durations

9 - 12 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, Ba Be National Park, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island

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 (119 Reviews)

Best of Northern Vietnam 9 days 8 nights

About this tour

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Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi - Ba Be National Park

Day 2 Ba Be lake - Na Hang - Ha Giang

Day 3 Trekking in Ha Giang

Day 4 Ha Giang - Dong Van

Day 5 Dong Van - Meo Vac - Cao Bang

Day 6 Ban Gioc Waterfall - Lang Son

Day 7 Lang Son - Halong Bay

Day 8 Halong Bay - Cat Ba Island

Day 9 Cat Ba Island - Ha Noi

Durations

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