Northern Vietnam Highlights For Family 6 Days -

From: €305 4-star hotels

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Duration

6 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Bat Trang Ceramic Village – Ky Son Village – Halong Bay

Discover the captivating natural landscapes of Vietnam and the enchanting lifestyle of Hanoi with our “Northern Vietnam Highlights for Family in 6 days.” This itinerary features a range of family-friendly activities, perfect for your entire family. Immerse yourself in the alluring beauty of the capital, experience the charm of Ky Son villages, and embark on a spectacular cruise in Halong Bay. Whether you are a solo traveler or a senior seeking to explore Vietnam, this trip is tailored just for you!

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

Our driver will be waiting for you at Noi Bai Airport to provide a comfortable transfer.
Note: Please proceed to Pole No.10 (Outside the Terminal Gate) to meet our representatives, considering the airport's bustling atmosphere.

Enjoy a 45-minute drive to your hotel in the city center.

While the standard check-in time is 14:00, an early check-in can be arranged with a slight surcharge.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore. Feel free to reach out if you'd like to book any of our tours to discover the charms of Hanoi.

Recommendations:

Thang Long Water Puppet Show: Immerse yourself in the traditional art of water puppetry, showcasing Vietnam's culture and stories. Experience the performance by skilled puppet artisans at Thang Long Theater.

The Quintessence of Tonkin Show: Dive into the cultural richness of the Northern delta with water puppetry, the breathtaking Chua Thay performance, the story of venerable monk Tu Dao Hanh, and the history of the ancient Thang Long royal palace. (For show reservations, please contact our travel consultant)

Meals: NA
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi Half-day City Tour - Bat Trang Pottery Village

Morning

At 8:00, your tour guide will pick you up from the hotel lobby for a captivating Hanoi sightseeing tour.

Explore renowned tourist attractions, beginning with the Temple of Literature, a historical landmark and the first university in Vietnam, symbolizing the country's rich culture.

Visit Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh delivered the Declaration of Independence.

Stroll along the enchanting Thanh Nien Road, graced by the serene West Lake.

Conclude your morning tour with visits to Quan Thanh Temple and Tran Quoc Pagoda, offering insights into traditional Vietnamese religions.

Relish a delicious Vietnamese meal at a local restaurant.

Afternoon

Venture to Bat Trang Ceramic Village, renowned for its ceramics.

Participate in engaging pottery workshops, getting your hands dirty for a fun and educational pottery-making experience.

In the late afternoon, return to Hanoi.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Morning

At 8:00, your tour guide will pick you up for an enriching full-day excursion to Ky Son village.

After approximately one and a half hours of scenic driving, arrive at Moon Garden Homestay in Ky Son.

Delight in a tasting of local fresh green tea along the journey.

Following a short break, choose between a 6 km or 12 km cycling option.

Short ride

Explore the farming communities of Ky Son, Tam Son, Van Minh, and Cham by bicycle.

Visit local families for tea, engaging in conversations about their daily lives and farming activities.

Depending on availability, visit a kindergarten or assist farmers with various tasks such as plowing, transplanting seedlings, and harvesting crops.

Long ride

Extend your cycling adventure to additional villages in Ky Son, including Tam Son, Van Minh, Cham farming communities, Duong Lam ancient village, Mia Pagoda, and Mong Phu Communal House.

Pause at a local family specializing in traditional candies.

Cycle back to Moon Garden Homestay along the ritual paths of Thang Thac village.

Participate in a cooking class at the homestay, followed by a delicious lunch.

Afternoon

Enjoy a soothing hand massage with fingers dipped in a fragrant lime bowl infused with traditional herbs. Engage in conversations with local families about snacks, cultures, and traditional customs.

Indulge in a foot bath featuring warm water infused with ginger, salt, and mugwort medicinal herbs.

Savor local products such as traditional desserts, maize, sweet potato, cassava, peanuts, etc.

Your free time begins around 15:00, allowing you to explore Moon Garden Homestay, visit the local market, and discover the kindergarten.

Bid farewell to Ky Son and return to Hanoi.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 4</span> Halong Bay Overnight on Cruise

Morning

Commence your day with a prompt 8:00 transfer from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter to embark on a journey to Halong Bay, renowned as one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from the dedicated crew staff.

Complete the check-in process while the cruise gracefully sails along the breathtaking Halong Bay.

Note: Depending on the outlined itinerary, consider selecting a family cruise to create lasting memories with your children.

Savor a delectable seafood feast served on board.

Amidst lunch and leisure, engage in exciting activities such as cave exploration, kayaking, and swimming.

Afternoon

Unwind and anticipate a delightful dinner upon returning to the cruise.

Participate in Happy Hour, the Sunset Party, and a Cooking Class while aboard.

Conclude your evening with dinner, followed by engaging activities like squid fishing, singing, and dancing.

Accommodation: Halong Bay cruise

Morning

For early risers, relish the serene beauty of the morning sunrise casting its glow upon the majestic karst formations of Halong Bay.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast on board as the boat gently navigates through the extraordinary rock formations.

Depending on the cruise itinerary, partake in a variety of captivating activities before concluding the journey.

Upon disembarking, transportation will be arranged to transfer you to your hotel in Hanoi for check-in.

Afternoon & Evening

Embrace free time to independently explore the city.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Relish the remaining hours of the day at your leisure.

Note: The hotel room is accessible until 12:00. Kindly reach out to us if you wish to arrange a late checkout.

Our driver will collect you from the hotel and facilitate your transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
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 - Bat Trang Ceramic Village - Ky Son Village - Halong Bay

Quan Su Pagoda - 🛕 Quan Su Pagoda: The Beating Heart of Buddhism in Hanoi If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to discover not just its bustling streets and famous lakes but also its spiritual soul, then Quan Su Pagoda (Chùa Quán Sứ) is a must-visit. Known as the Ambassadors’ Pagoda, this sacred site is more than just a place of worship—it’s the headquarters of Vietnamese Buddhism and a living, breathing symbol of faith in the capital. Located at 73 Quan Su Street, right in the center of Hanoi near the junction with Tran Hung Dao, this pagoda welcomes thousands of worshippers and curious travelers every month. Whether you’re seeking peace, cultural insights, or simply a break from the city’s traffic, Quan Su offers a rare mix of spirituality, history, and living tradition. 📜 A Journey Through History Quan Su Pagoda has roots stretching back to the 15th century, during the reign of King Le The Tong. It was originally built as part of a guesthouse for Buddhist envoys and ambassadors visiting from neighboring countries such as Laos, Cambodia, and China—hence its name, “Quan Su,” meaning Ambassadors. Though the structure has undergone many renovations, the current building was completed in 1942 and reflects a harmonious blend of Vietnamese traditional architecture with subtle modern touches. Over the centuries, the pagoda has grown from a diplomatic spiritual hub into one of the most important religious sites in Vietnam. 🏮 A Living Pagoda in Modern Hanoi Unlike some temples that feel frozen in time, Quan Su Pagoda is very much alive. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant scene: 🙏 Worship Days – On the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, the courtyard fills with worshippers offering incense, fruits, and flowers. The atmosphere is both festive and deeply spiritual. 🕯️ Sacred Atmosphere – Inside the main hall, you’ll be greeted by the sight of rows of crimson-lacquered Buddha statues, glowing softly under the dim light of an iron lamp adorned with dragon motifs. 🌳 Peaceful Courtyard – The compound is shaded by ancient trees, creating a tranquil contrast to Hanoi’s bustling streets outside. The air is often thick with the fragrance of burning incense, giving visitors a true sense of Buddhist devotion. For locals, it’s a place of prayer, reflection, and community. For travelers, it’s a window into Vietnamese spirituality. 📚 A Center of Buddhist Learning Quan Su is not just a place for worship—it is also the headquarters of the Central Buddhist Congregation of Vietnam. This makes it the nerve center of Buddhist activities nationwide. At the back of the pagoda, you’ll find: 📖 A Well-Stocked Library – Home to rare Buddhist texts, scriptures, and modern publications. 🏫 Classrooms for Buddhist Studies – Where monks, nuns, and laypeople come to learn about Buddhist philosophy, rituals, and history. 🌏 Cultural & Religious Events – Throughout the year, Quan Su hosts important ceremonies such as Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday), Dharma talks, and international Buddhist exchanges. If you’re visiting during a festival, you may witness large gatherings, chanting rituals, or even cultural performances tied to Buddhist traditions. 🌟 Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss When visiting Quan Su Pagoda in 2025, here are the must-see and must-experience moments: 🪔 The Main Hall (Chính Điện) – Admire the intricate architecture, lacquered statues, and the iconic dragon-carved iron lamp. 🌿 The Courtyard – Take a quiet stroll under ancient trees, a perfect pause in the middle of Hanoi’s busy downtown. 🎐 Incense Offering – Join locals in offering incense. Even if you’re not Buddhist, it’s a respectful way to connect with the atmosphere. 🧘 Meditation Time – In recent years, the pagoda has introduced short meditation sessions for visitors, particularly in the early mornings. 📍 Practical Information for Visitors (Updated 2025) ✨ Address: 73 Quan Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕕 Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM💰 Entrance Fee: Free (donations welcome)⌛ Recommended Duration: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours 👉 Travel Tip 2025: In response to growing international visitors, the pagoda now offers multilingual leaflets in English, French, Japanese, and Korean, making it easier to understand the site’s history and symbolism. 🛵 How to Get There Quan Su Pagoda is centrally located, making it very accessible: 🚶 On Foot: If you’re staying around Hoan Kiem Lake, it’s just a 15-minute walk. 🚖 By Taxi/Grab: A quick ride from anywhere in central Hanoi. 🚲 By Bicycle: Combine your visit with a cycling tour around Hanoi’s Old Quarter and French Quarter. 🛍️ Nearby Attractions Since you’re already in Hanoi’s cultural heart, combine your visit with these nearby highlights: 🏛️ Hoa Lo Prison Museum (5-minute walk) – A sobering look into Vietnam’s colonial and wartime history. ☕ Hidden Cafés on Tran Hung Dao Street – Perfect spots to sip egg coffee after your temple visit. 🎭 Vietnam National Tuong Theatre – Just around the corner, where you can catch traditional opera performances. 🌳 Thống Nhất Park – A green escape if you want more tranquility. 🌸 Visiting Tips for 2025 ✔️ Dress respectfully – Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees) is recommended.✔️ Avoid peak worship times unless you want to experience the full crowds—early morning is the most peaceful.✔️ Photography – Allowed in most areas, but be mindful during prayer times.✔️ Bring small offerings – Incense, fruits, or flowers are appreciated if you’d like to participate.✔️ Check festival dates – Visiting during Vesak (usually in May) offers a colorful, festive experience. 🌍 Why You Should Visit Quan Su Pagoda In a city filled with famous landmarks—Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the Temple of Literature—Quan Su stands apart. It’s not just about ancient architecture or history frozen in time. Instead, this pagoda represents Vietnamese Buddhism in motion: alive, active, and deeply integrated into modern life. For locals, it’s a sanctuary of faith. For travelers, it’s a chance to step into a living tradition, where the past and present blend seamlessly. 📝 Final Thoughts Quan Su Pagoda may not have the sprawling size of Hanoi’s other temples or the...Hoa Lo Prison - 🏯 Hoa Lo Prison (The “Hanoi Hilton”): A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi in 2025, chances are Hoa Lo Prison Museum will pop up on your must-visit list. This isn’t just another historical site—it’s one of the most haunting reminders of Vietnam’s turbulent past, layered with stories of colonial rule, war, resilience, and propaganda. Nestled right in the heart of Hanoi at 1 Hoa Lo Street, the prison once stood as a symbol of fear. Today, it’s a museum where visitors can step into history and walk through the cells that once held revolutionaries, intellectuals, and later, American prisoners of war. Let’s dive into its history, what to expect when visiting, and why it’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the depth of Vietnam’s journey. 📖 A Brief History of Hoa Lo Prison Originally built by the French in 1896, Hoa Lo was intended to suppress Vietnamese resistance against colonial rule. The name “Hoa Lo” translates to “fiery furnace” or “stove,” but ironically, the neighborhood was known for ceramic stoves before the prison existed. During the colonial era (1896–1954), it became notorious for housing Vietnamese nationalists and revolutionaries. Overcrowding was extreme: while designed for around 450 prisoners, records show it sometimes held over 2,000. Among its inmates were five future General Secretaries of the Vietnamese Communist Party, men who would later help shape modern Vietnam. After the French departure in 1954, the prison continued to function under the Vietnamese government. By the 1960s and 70s, it took on a new identity—one that would make headlines around the world. ✈️ The “Hanoi Hilton” Era For many Western visitors, Hoa Lo is best known by its infamous nickname: the “Hanoi Hilton.” This was the name sarcastically given by American POWs (mostly pilots and crew) during the Vietnam War. Captured servicemen—including some who later became well-known figures like U.S. Senator John McCain—were detained here. Vietnamese state media at the time portrayed the prison as a place where POWs were well-fed and treated humanely. Television broadcasts showed smiling prisoners, neatly clothed and playing games. However, accounts from veterans after the war revealed starkly different experiences—harsh interrogations, cramped living conditions, and psychological strain. Even today, guides sometimes tell foreign visitors with a straight face, “That’s why it was called the Hanoi Hilton.” The irony, of course, is not lost on those familiar with the history. 🏛️ What You’ll See Inside the Museum Visiting Hoa Lo Prison Museum is an intense, emotional experience. While much of the original complex was demolished in the 1990s to make way for the modern Hanoi Towers, parts of it remain preserved for public education. Here’s what stands out: 🔒 Preserved Prison Cells – Walk through dark, narrow cells where prisoners were once shackled. The claustrophobic atmosphere offers a chilling glimpse into their reality. ⚖️ French Colonial Artifacts – Rusty shackles, leg irons, and even a guillotine remain on display, stark reminders of the brutal colonial justice system. 📸 Historic Photographs – Rooms filled with images and records of famous political prisoners, many of whom later played pivotal roles in Vietnam’s independence. 🎥 POW Exhibits – Displays highlighting the Vietnam War era, though with a heavy dose of propaganda that emphasizes supposed humane treatment of American prisoners. 🕯️ Memorial Spaces – Sections dedicated to honoring the Vietnamese revolutionaries who sacrificed their lives here. 📍 Practical Visitor Information (Updated 2025) ✨ Location: 1 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)🎟️ Ticket Price: 50,000 VND (approx. $2 USD)⌛ Recommended Visit Duration: 1–2 hours 👉 Travel Tip 2025: The museum has recently upgraded its multilingual audio guides (available in English, French, Japanese, and Korean), making it easier for visitors to navigate the complex stories presented. 🛵 Exploring the Surrounding Area After such a heavy experience, you might want a lighter change of pace. Luckily, Hoa Lo is located in a vibrant part of Hanoi: 📚 Publishing Street (Pho Sach Ha Noi) – Just a short walk east, this gentrified street is lined with cozy cafés and bookshops. While most books are in Vietnamese, the peaceful atmosphere is a refreshing break from Hanoi’s traffic chaos. ☕ Hidden Cafés – Nearby, you’ll find small coffee shops serving Vietnam’s famous egg coffee (cà phê trứng)—a sweet treat to decompress after your visit. 🛍️ Trang Tien Plaza & Hoan Kiem Lake – Both within walking distance, perfect for combining history with shopping and sightseeing. 🌍 Why Hoa Lo Prison Should Be on Your Hanoi Itinerary Visiting Hoa Lo isn’t about ticking off another tourist attraction—it’s about connecting with Vietnam’s layered history. It forces you to confront the brutal realities of colonialism and war, while also reflecting on themes of resilience, propaganda, and national identity. Unlike temples or lakes, this is not a place of beauty, but of memory. And in that sense, it adds incredible depth to any trip to Hanoi. ✨ Tips for Visitors in 2025 ✔️ Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.✔️ Take your time in the exhibits—don’t rush, as much of the information is nuanced.✔️ Bring water, but note that food and drinks are not allowed inside.✔️ Be mindful when taking photos—some areas are solemn memorials.✔️ Pair your visit with other nearby cultural sites like the Vietnam National Museum of History or the Temple of Literature for a well-rounded day of exploration. 📝 Final Thoughts Hoa Lo Prison Museum isn’t an easy visit—it’s sobering, sometimes uncomfortable, but always enlightening. Standing inside its walls, you can almost hear the echoes of the past: the voices of revolutionaries who dreamed of independence, and the whispers of captured soldiers who longed for home. In 2025, as Hanoi continues to modernize with skyscrapers, trendy cafés, and bustling nightlife, Hoa Lo remains a stark reminder of where the city has come from. It’s this balance between old and new, tragedy and triumph, that makes Hanoi such a fascinating place to explore. So if...

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From: €305

4-star hotels

4.9 (123 Reviews)

Northern Vietnam Highlights for Family 6 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi Arrival

Day 2 Hanoi Half-day City Tour - Bat Trang Pottery Village

Day 3 Ky Son Full Day

Day 4 Halong Bay Overnight on Cruise

Day 5 Halong Bay - Hanoi

Day 6 Hanoi Departure

Durations

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Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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