North of Viet Nam Highlight 7 days 6 nights

Tour Code: IC10POCY1IP8

5 (115 Reviews)

Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay

From: ₹477 4-star hotels

(115 reviews)

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Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay

Commence and conclude your journey in Hanoi! Embark on the North of Vietnam Highlight 7 days 6 nights, a comprehensive 7-day tour that navigates you through Hanoi, Vietnam, and three other captivating destinations. This tour package encompasses accommodation in well-selected hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, delectable meals, seamless 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

Arrive in Hanoi! Our team will warmly greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Upon completing the check-in process, the remainder of the day is at your leisure. Hanoi, a vibrant and lively city, serves as one of the nation's historic centers, the economic hub, and a torchbearer of cultural heritage. Within the bustling cityscape, you'll discover the enduring traditions and charm of an ancient culture.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi – Sapa – Cat Cat – Sapa

Between 6:30 and 7:00 AM, our dedicated driver and knowledgeable tour guide will be at your hotel in Hanoi to commence our journey to Sapa.

By 10:00 AM, we'll embark on a scenic route to Lao Cai City, with a pleasant break along the way to Sapa.

Upon reaching Sapa by 1:00 PM, you'll be greeted by the vibrant traditional attire of the H'mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic groups. Welcome drinks and a briefing on the itinerary will be provided, followed by a delicious lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes before checking into the hotel.

Starting at 2:30 PM, we'll begin a downhill trek to Cat Cat village, nestled at the base of Muong Hoa Valley. Revel in the breathtaking views of the valley, with the majestic Fansipan, Vietnam and Indochina's highest peak, as your backdrop. Upon arrival in Cat Cat, explore traditional stilt houses of the Black H'mong, witnessing activities like weaving, embroidery, and cloth drying. Continue the journey to marvel at the scenic Cat Cat Waterfall, offering an ideal setting for captivating photographs.

By 5:00 PM, return to Sapa town for a delightful dinner. The evening is yours to explore Sapa Market and the town's charm.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

<span> Day 3</span> Sapa – Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van – Sapa – Hanoi

Commencing at 9:00 AM, embark on a trek from Sapa, venturing into another segment of Muong Hoa Valley that unfolds captivating landscapes of the mountainous terrain. Traverse Y Linh Ho, the village of the Black H'mong, and continue the expedition through verdant rice terraces to explore Lao Chai village, immersing yourself in the daily life and traditional culture of the Black H'mong.

By 11:30 AM, reach Ta Van village, inhabited by the Tay minority, characterized by a profound influence from Chinese culture.

Take a bus journey back to Sapa around 2:30 PM, allowing for some leisure time in Sapa to refresh.

At 3:15 PM, board a bus for your return journey to Hanoi.

By 9:15 PM, you'll arrive back in Hanoi, concluding the tour.

<span> Day 4</span> Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Bai Dinh pagoda and Trang An eco complex

Between 7:15 AM and 8:30 AM, our tour guide and driver will collect you from your hotel in Hanoi city, commencing the journey to Ninh Binh province (120 Kms) to embark on the Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda tour.

By 10:30 AM, you will reach Bai Dinh Pagoda, a significant Buddhist sanctuary boasting 500 La Han statues and the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam, standing at 10 meters in height and weighing 100 tons. Delight in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, featuring special dishes such as goat meat with elderberry and pork storage vessel.

At 1:00 PM, proceed to explore the Trang An tourist attraction, partake in a boat excursion to traverse cave complexes like Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Nau Ruou, experiencing the mystery and wilderness while witnessing the scenic beauty reminiscent of Halong Bay on the land of Ninh Binh.

By 4:00 PM, return to Hanoi in a comfortable car.

At 6:00 PM, arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi, concluding the day.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Between 7:45 AM and 8:15 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel (Note: this time applies to those who have booked our shuttle bus service).

At 10:00 AM, take a short break at a stopover in Hai Duong Province.

From 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM, embark on Lavender Cruise, where you'll receive a brief cruise overview and enjoy a welcome drink. Proceed to check into your cabin.

Starting at 1:15 PM, relish a delightful lunch featuring regional fresh seafood. Cruise through the stunning waters, passing by Incense Burner Island, Fighting Cock Islet, Stone Dog, and other captivating landmarks. Lavender Cruise will guide you through the most enchanting route, a path less traveled by other cruises.

Between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM:

Engage in kayaking amidst the breathtaking landscape with limestone mountains in Luon Cave.
Visit Titop Island for swimming or relaxation on the sun-deck, enjoying fantastic views of the bay.
Return to Lavender Cruises and partake in the sunset party.
Cruise by Soi Sim Beach, "Rang Dua" Island, heading to the sleeping area near the Surprising Cave.
Join our Cooking Class in the restaurant, where you'll learn to make fresh/fried spring rolls and mix fish-sauce.
At 7:30 PM, beneath the magnificent night sky, savor our set-menu dinner featuring a variety of Vietnamese and Asian dishes.

Evening activities:

Participate in squid fishing on the boat with our crews. Enjoy the squid cooked with assistance from our chef, indulge in playing cards, karaoke, or simply relax with our happy-hour drinks at the bar.
Overnight on Lavender Cruises.

At 6:15 AM, partake in morning exercises on the Sun-deck.

At 7:15 AM, relish a breakfast featuring coffee, tea, and bakeries served on board.

By 8:00 AM, explore the Surprising Cave (Hang Sung Sot), a discovery made by the French in 1901. Opened to tourists since 1936, it has become a must-see attraction and a symbol of Halong's geological significance.

Around 9:30 AM, it's check-out time. Relax on the sun-deck or inside the restaurant, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the bay.

At 10:15 AM, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch while cruising back to the pier.

By 12:00 PM, complete the cruise check-out. Our car will be ready to pick you up and drive you back to Hanoi.

Between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM, arrive in Hanoi, marking the end of the trip!

Take the remainder of your time in Hanoi at your leisure until your flight departs.

Please note that hotel check-out time is at 12:00 PM.

Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey back home!

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, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay

The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.

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About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi Arrival

Day 2 Hanoi – Sapa – Cat Cat – Sapa

Day 3 Sapa – Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van – Sapa – Hanoi

Day 4 Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Bai Dinh pagoda and Trang An eco complex

Day 5 Hanoi - Halong Bay

Day 6 Halong Bay - Hanoi

Day 7 Hanoi Departure

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