North Vietnam Explorer 8 Days -

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Duration

8 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

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About this tour

Embarking from Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, this comprehensive tour captures the diverse charm of the northern region. Sapa beckons with captivating trekking paths and cultural minority enclaves, while the Ninh Binh region boasts limestone peaks rivalling Halong Bay. Our journey unfolds with an immersive Hanoi city tour, followed by an overnight train to Lao Cai, the gateway to Sapa’s trekking haven. Two days of exploration reveal valleys and summits, unveiling local customs.

Returning to Lao Cai, the train whisks us back to Hanoi for leisurely city discovery. Next, Hoa Lu, once the capital (968-1009 AD), unveils natural beauty via tranquil Boi River boat rides. Our odyssey leads to Halong Bay, two days cruising serene waters aboard a traditional junk, indulging in kayaking and swimming. The journey culminates in Hanoi.

This itinerary complements southern Vietnam exploration, offers coastal solace, or extends to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and Tonle Sap. A personalized blueprint, adaptable to preferences, beckons. Your desires dictate daily plans, duration, and accommodations.

Highlights

* Ha Long Bay: A stunning bay with thousands of limestone cliffs and islets rising from the water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam.
* Sapa: A mountainous region in the northwest of Vietnam, known for its beautiful rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities.
* Ninh Binh: An area of natural beauty, with stunning karst landscapes, rice fields, and ancient temples.
* Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam, with a mix of old and new architecture, street food, and cultural sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.

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
* All sightseeing as specified including entrance fees
* Airfares if specified in the program. ( E-Economy class, B-Business calss)
* Visa Approval Letter if specified in the program

• Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
• Meals not mentioned in the program
• Any flights (Domestic and International) and airport tax
• 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 Arrival & Culinary Exploration

Upon your arrival in Hanoi, we extend a warm welcome at the airport and offer a private transfer to your chosen hotel. Settle in and acquaint yourself with the surroundings. Later, your guide leads you on an enthralling street food journey. Our venture commences with a sip of "bai hoi," a fizzy draft beer originating from Eastern Europe, setting the tone for the culinary odyssey. Wandering through vibrant streets and stalls, you'll indulge in Vietnamese flame-grilled barbecue, skewers laden with meats, tofu, and vegetables, unveiling a plethora of gastronomic treasures. Concluding the evening, a leisurely lakeside stroll culminates with dessert at Hanoi's iconic ice cream parlor. | Overnight: Hanoi - 3-star hotel. Extras: Single room supplement (VETMNV)

<span> Day 2 </span>Hanoi City Insights & Overnight Train to Lao Cai

Our comprehensive city tour unearths Hanoi's essential landmarks. The morning unveils the Ho Chi Minh Complex, encompassing the Mausoleum, his stilt-house residence, the Presidential Palace, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a potent political center for nearly 13 centuries, awaits your exploration. Afternoon excursions include The Temple of Literature, Vietnam's inaugural university dating back to 1070, and the Long Bien Bridge—a relic of French occupation (1899 - 1902). A spirited one-hour cyclo tour through the bustling Old Quarter ensues, a requisite experience. The day culminates with Vietnamese coffee at a local café, overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. Note: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and approximately from 1st October to 30th November for preservation. In the evening, you board an overnight train to Lao Cai, drifting into slumber within comfortable soft sleeper berths. Departing around 21:00, you'll arrive in Lao Cai at approximately 06:00 the following day. | Overnight: On board sleeper train. | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

<span> Day 3 </span> Lao Cai Arrival, Sapa Ascent & Enthralling Trek

Our trekking odyssey commences with a scenic drive from Lao Cai Station to Sapa, the charming mountain town. This hour-long journey unveils dramatic highland landscapes that capture the essence of nature's grandeur. Arriving in Sapa by 8:00 am, we fuel up with a hearty breakfast before plunging into the day's adventures. Perched at 1600m elevation, Sapa's cool climate and picturesque mountains have historically lured visitors. Once a French hill station and now a global attraction, Sapa's allure lies in its captivating scenery, vibrant markets, and the presence of ethnic hill tribes in neighboring villages. Our journey takes us on a jeep ride to the trekking trailhead, leading us through the scenic Ban Ho valley. En route, we encounter traditional wooden houses of the Tay ethnic minority. Our trek continues to Thanh Phu village, where a local house serves as a lunch venue. Subsequently, we journey to Sin Chai village, the domain of the Red Dao minority, for an immersive experience in bamboo huts, enriched by the warm hospitality of the Red Dao. Approx: 1-hour drive / 5-hour trek / 1-hour lunch. | Overnight: Sin Chai village - Bamboo huts. | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

<span> Day 4 </span>Sapa Exploration, Treasured Trek & Return to Hanoi

Today's trek is a downhill escapade toward My Son village, home to the Xafo ethnic minority, a rare gem among Northern Vietnam's ethnic groups. A 90-minute walk guides us to Nam Toong, a Red Dao village where a sumptuous lunch awaits. The descent resumes, leading us to Ban Ho village, where an invigorating swim at La Vie waterfall beckons. As the afternoon sun wanes, we transition to Lao Cai for our overnight train journey back to Hanoi. Enveloped in the comfort of soft sleeper berths, the express train departs around 20:00 and graces Hanoi's embrace by approximately 05:00 the following day. | Overnight: On board sleeper train. | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

<span> Day 5 </span>Hanoi Arrival, Ninh Binh Expedition

Hoa Lu, the former Vietnamese capital during the Dinh and Le Dynasties (968-1009 AD), stands as a testament to history's endurance. Structures and tombs from that era persist, embellishing the landscape with echoes of the past. Notably, the region's natural allure, characterized by limestone peaks rivaling Halong Bay's splendor, beckons. As morning light bathes the train station, your guide awaits your arrival, commencing our journey. A two-hour drive brings us to Ninh Binh province. Here, the Dinh and Le sanctuaries unveil their historic significance, preceding a delectable lunch at a local eatery in Tam Coc. Embarking on a traditional boat, we glide along the Boi River, guided by rice paddies and shielded by limestone cliffs, a voyage that reveals hidden caves and time-honored temples. Thereafter, our path winds to Cuc Phuong National Park, where the evening unveils serenity. | Overnight: Ninh Binh - 4-star hotel. | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

<span> Day 6 </span>Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Discovery

An early morning summons adventure as you're transferred to the ethereal realm of Halong Bay. The allure of this UNESCO-listed World Heritage Area's natural beauty is unmatched. Aboard an overnight junk boat, Halong Bay unveils its timeless charm. Venture into ancient limestone caves, engage in sea kayaking and swimming amidst captivating surroundings. Weather permitting, you'll witness a mesmerizing sunset from the boat's deck, serenaded by gentle waves. As stars twinkle above, a delectable seafood feast awaits, celebrating a day of enchantment. | Overnight: Halong Bay - Junk boat. | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

<span> Day 7 </span>Lan Ha Bay Discovery

Embracing the dawn, we embark on a smaller vessel, venturing into the enigmatic Lan Ha Bay, a secluded haven within the bay's expanse. Our journey unveils the Leaning Tower, a renowned rock climbing cliff, as well as the intriguing floating fishing villages that harbor locally farmed fish, shrimps, and crabs in serene bay waters. Amidst this exploration, you can partake in refreshing swims or navigate the waters by kayak, basking in the pristine surroundings. Post-lunch, we set course for Three Peaches Beach, a serene expanse of white sands, where time awaits for sun-soaked relaxation, weather permitting. | Overnight: Halong Bay - Junk boat. | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

<span> Day 8 </span>Halong Bay Epilogue, Return to Hanoi

Commence the day with an invigorating swim followed by a hearty breakfast. Our itinerary guides us to the "Cave of Surprises," a natural marvel within Halong Bay. As the journey cycles to its end, we cruise back to the harbor, embarking on the return to Hanoi. The day crescendos as you're chauffeured to the airport for your homeward-bound flight. Note: Day use room in Hanoi not included. | Overnight: N/A. | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Durations

5 - 8 days

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Lao Cai, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hanoi

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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North Vietnam Explorer 8 Days

About this tour

Highlights

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1Hanoi Arrival & Culinary Exploration

Day 2 Hanoi City Insights & Overnight Train to Lao Cai

Day 3 Lao Cai Arrival, Sapa Ascent & Enthralling Trek

Day 4 Sapa Exploration, Treasured Trek & Return to Hanoi

Day 5 Hanoi Arrival, Ninh Binh Expedition

Day 6 Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Discovery

Day 7 Lan Ha Bay Discovery

Day 8 Halong Bay Epilogue, Return to Hanoi

Durations

Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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