Vietnam Highland Explorer 7 Days

Tour Code: WHF3ZB9S0AS9 

5 (115 Reviews)
Hanoi, Lao Cai, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park
From: €578 4-star hotels
5
(115 reviews)
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Duration

7 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

About this tour

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey, the Vietnam Highland Explorer tour, commencing and concluding in Hanoi. This immersive cultural experience will take you through Hanoi and four other captivating destinations in Vietnam. Your tour package encompasses accommodation in well-appointed hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, sumptuous meals, seamless transportation, and much more, ensuring a truly enriching adventure.

Highlights

  • * 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

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span>Hanoi Arrival

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, our attentive guide and driver will be awaiting your arrival to warmly welcome you. They will promptly transfer you to your hotel for a seamless check-in process. Please note that your room will be available from 2:00 PM. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax and settle in at the hotel, soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant city. Overnight stay at the comfortable hotel in Hanoi.

<span> Day 2 </span>Hanoi - Afternoon Motorbike Tour - Night Train to Lao Cai

Spend the morning leisurely exploring the enchanting Old Quarter area and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake. Around noon, savor a delectable lunch that awaits you. Afterward, embark on a captivating motorbike tour of Hanoi's famous landmarks, such as the Opera House, the historic Long Bien Bridge, and the mesmerizing Ceramic Road. Venture to a Red River island to immerse in the authentic local life, meandering through lush banana and vegetable farms. The journey continues to the picturesque West Lake, where you'll visit the revered Phu Tay Ho Temple, an homage to the Mother Goddess. Capture the beauty of the West Lake at the Dragon Tail, and explore the insightful Tao Sach Pagoda, which bears witness to 1000 years of Vietnam's history. Uncover the heart of Hanoi as you ride through its narrow alleys, offering glimpses into the vibrant life near the railroad. Return to your hotel to unwind and enjoy dinner at your preferred location. Take pleasure in your remaining time in Hanoi before being transferred to the railway station for an overnight train to Lao Cai, in a shared 4-berth cabin.

<span> Day 3 </span>Lao Cai - Local Market - Sapa Town

Upon arrival at Lao Cai station, you'll be greeted and taken to the Hoang Lien Son mountains, where nature's marvels and rich ethnic culture await. Relish the scenic beauty of magnificent valleys and vast rice paddies along the way. Embark on a leisurely walk to the vibrant local market, where ethnic communities don their colorful traditional costumes and sell an array of local produce, from fresh vegetables to medicinal herbs and beautiful brocade textiles. Capture the vibrant atmosphere and consider purchasing delightful gifts for your loved ones back home, always seeking permission before taking photographs with the sellers. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Return to the hotel to unwind. The rest of the day is yours to relish at your leisure. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice. Overnight stay at the hotel. Please note that each market operates on specific days: Monday – Phiet Village Market; Tuesday – Coc Ly Market; Wednesday – Cao Son Market; Thursday – Lung Khau Nhin Market; Friday – Chau Market; Saturday – Can Cau Market; Sunday – Bac Ha Market.

<span> Day 4 </span>Lao Chai - Tavan Trekking - Bus to Hanoi

Fuel up with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an exploration of the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley. The journey takes you through Northern Vietnam's scenic roads, surrounded by majestic mountains and breathtaking valleys. Immerse in the tranquil landscape and the melodious songs of birds along the way, and if luck is on your side, you may catch a charming moment of a local boy guiding a group of buffaloes with a stick. After about a 7 km drive on the main road, we reach Lao Chai village and traverse a small trail that winds through the lush rice paddies. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to delve into the local way of life, gaining insight into their culture and cherished traditions. Next, we head to Ta Van village, home to the Giay ethnic group, where we engage with local families, experiencing their customs and discovering the fascinating distinctions between hill tribes. Savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, our car awaits at the main road to transport us back to Sapa. After refreshing, we board a bus bound for Hanoi. Arrival in Hanoi is in the evening. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice, followed by an overnight stay in Hanoi.

<span> Day 5 </span>Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Van Long

The morning brings us to Ninh Binh, a scenic 110 km drive that takes approximately 2 hours. We arrive at Van Long Nature Reserve, famed as the breathtaking setting for the blockbuster movie, Kong: Skull Island. Embark on a delightful rowboat journey (around 1.5 hours) through the enchanting wetland, feasting your eyes upon magnificent limestone peaks and lush paddy fields. Our next adventure leads us to Gia Hung village, where we embark on an 8 km bike tour along the Boi River dike, immersing in the local community and its enchanting surroundings. Following this, we make our way to Nho Quan village for a delightful lunch shared with friendly locals. Later, visit the Hoa Lu ancient capital, exploring the remnants of the Dinh and Le dynasties from the 10th century and relishing in the nation's glorious history. Transfer to your hotel in Ninh Binh. Enjoy dinner at your leisure and spend a restful night at the hotel.

<span> Day 6 </span>Cuc Phuong National Park - Hanoi

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a captivating journey to Cuc Phuong National Park, one of Vietnam's oldest and most cherished national parks. Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside of Ninh Binh before arriving at the park. Upon reaching our destination, we visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, a vital organization dedicated to preserving endangered primate species. Savor a delicious lunch within the park. In the afternoon, immerse in a refreshing trek through the enchanting forest, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this sanctuary. Afterwards, take a brief break before returning to Hanoi. Enjoy dinner at your preferred location, followed by a relaxing overnight stay at the hotel.

<span> Day 7 </span>Hanoi - Departure - No Guide

Savor your remaining time in Hanoi as you select wonderful souvenirs for your friends and family, creating cherished memories of your journey. At the designated time, you will be transferred without a guide to the airport for your onward flight. Meals are at your expense. This marks the end of our services, and we bid you farewell!

Durations

5 - 8 days

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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Tour's Location

Hanoi, Lao Cai, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park
Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture - 🏛️ Exploring Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture: A Journey Through Time in the French Quarter When most travelers think of Hanoi, their minds often jump to the lively chaos of the Old Quarter — buzzing scooters, sizzling street food stalls, and narrow alleyways filled with history. But just a short stroll away lies another side of the city: the French Quarter, where grand boulevards, leafy trees, and elegant colonial mansions whisper stories of Vietnam’s colonial past. If the Old Quarter feels like a vibrant maze, then the French Quarter offers space, serenity, and timeless elegance. And what makes it truly fascinating is how these buildings — constructed during French rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries — now blend seamlessly into modern-day Hanoi. In this blog, let’s dive deep into Hanoi’s colonial architecture, explore the must-see landmarks, uncover hidden gems, and share insider tips to make your visit in 2025 unforgettable. 🌿 A Different Pace: From Old Quarter to French Quarter After the sensory overload of the Old Quarter, stepping into the French Quarter feels like a breath of fresh air. The streets are wider, the pace slower, and the trees taller. Instead of tiny tube houses, here you’ll find broad boulevards, neoclassical façades, and elegant villas that once housed colonial administrators and wealthy merchants. This neighborhood, located around Hoan Kiem Lake and stretching toward Ba Dinh District, is sometimes called Hanoi’s “second French Quarter.” Both areas showcase different layers of colonial influence, each with its own unique atmosphere. Walking here is a joy: you can actually hear birdsong, admire the pastel-colored villas, and feel the cool shade of banyan and flamboyant trees. It’s no wonder that many embassies, luxury hotels, and cultural institutions now call this district home. 🏰 Architectural Styles: From Neoclassical to Art Deco The architecture of Hanoi’s French Quarter isn’t uniform. Instead, it’s a rich mix of styles that evolved over decades: ✨ Neoclassical (early 1900s) – Think grand pillars, symmetrical facades, and whitewashed walls. These buildings often housed important colonial offices.✨ Beaux-Arts & Renaissance influences – Characterized by ornate balconies, arched windows, and elaborate detailing.✨ Art Deco (1930s) – Sleek, geometric lines that represented modernity at the time.✨ Oriental touches – Some villas incorporated tiled roofs or dragon motifs, blending French design with Vietnamese aesthetics. The result? A living museum of architectural evolution, all within walking distance. 🌟 Must-See Colonial Landmarks in Hanoi (Updated for 2025) Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss when exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter and beyond: 1. Hanoi Opera House 🎭 Perhaps the most iconic colonial building in Hanoi, the Opera House (built in 1911) was modeled after Paris’s Palais Garnier. With its elegant yellow façade, grand columns, and ornate interior, it remains a cultural hub. Today, it hosts concerts, ballets, and international performances — check the 2025 schedule for special events if you want to experience it firsthand. 2. Government Guest House 🏛️ Originally the residence of the Governor of Tonkin, this grand neoclassical mansion now serves as the Government Guest House. While it’s not open to the public, you can admire its pastel-yellow walls and elegant gardens from the outside. It’s located at the intersection of Ngo Quyen and Le Thach streets, just a few steps from Hoan Kiem Lake. 3. Metropole Hanoi Hotel ✨ A living legend of colonial luxury, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi (built in 1901) has hosted everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Angelina Jolie. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can enjoy afternoon tea in the glass-roofed Le Club Bar or sip cocktails at the Bamboo Bar by the pool. 4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral ⛪ Although technically in the Old Quarter, this Gothic Revival church (built in 1886) reflects the French colonial period. Often compared to a mini version of Notre-Dame de Paris, it’s still an active place of worship and a popular photography spot. 5. Ba Dinh’s Colonial Villas 🏡 Along Phan Dinh Phung and Dien Bien Phu streets in Ba Dinh District, you’ll find tree-lined avenues dotted with French villas. Many of them now serve as embassies or government offices. These quieter streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll away from tourist crowds. 6. Vietnam National Museum of History 📚 Housed in a former colonial building with yellow walls and Indochinese architectural flair, this museum is worth visiting not only for its exhibits but also for its design. The mix of French style and Vietnamese motifs makes it a standout landmark. 🚶 Best Ways to Explore the French Quarter Exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter is best done on foot. Here are some tips for your 2025 visit: 👟 Walking Tour – Start from Hoan Kiem Lake, pass by the Opera House, then wander down Trang Tien Street, where luxury boutiques now sit inside colonial storefronts. Continue toward Ngo Quyen Street to see the Government Guest House, then loop around toward the Metropole. 🚲 Cyclo Ride – For a slower pace, hop on a cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) and let a local guide pedal you through the boulevards while you sit back and soak in the views. 🚌 Guided Tour – Several Hanoi walking tour companies now offer themed “Colonial Architecture Tours,” which include hidden villas and access to buildings usually closed to the public. ☕ Cafés & Dining in Colonial Buildings One of the best ways to experience colonial architecture is to enjoy it from the inside. Many of Hanoi’s historic villas have been transformed into stylish cafés, restaurants, and art spaces: Maison de Tet Décor – A villa-turned-café with garden views, perfect for brunch. L’Espace (French Cultural Center) – A cultural hub with exhibitions, film screenings, and a cozy café. Metropole’s Angelina Bar – For fine dining and crafted cocktails inside one of Hanoi’s most elegant hotels. 📸 Photography Tips for 2025 Morning Light: The soft glow between 7–9 AM is ideal for capturing yellow façades. Avoid Midday Heat: Hanoi can get hot, especially from May to September. Details Matter: Don’t just snap the whole building — zoom in on wrought-iron balconies,...Hanoi Opera House - 🎭 Hanoi Opera House in 2025: A Timeless Icon of Art, Culture & History Few landmarks in Hanoi capture the city’s unique mix of history, culture, and elegance quite like the Hanoi Opera House. Known officially as the Municipal Theatre, this magnificent building stands proudly at the eastern end of Trang Tien Street, where French charm meets Vietnamese soul. More than just a venue for performances, the Opera House is a symbol of Hanoi’s colonial heritage and its continuing transformation into a global cultural capital. Let’s dive into its history, architecture, experiences, and tips for visiting in 2025. 🏛️ A Journey Through Time 🇫🇷 French Ambitions in Vietnam Construction of the Opera House began in 1901 and lasted nearly ten years. Built on reclaimed land, it officially opened in 1911, modeled after the neo-Baroque Palais Garnier in Paris. With its Ionic columns, slate tiles imported from France, and intricate façade, it was the ultimate jewel of French Hanoi. During the colonial era, it wasn’t just a building — it was the epicenter of high society, where the French elite attended operas, ballets, and classical concerts. ✊ The August Revolution of 1945 In August 1945, the Opera House became a stage for politics rather than performance. From its balcony, the Viet Minh proclaimed the success of the August Revolution, marking a turning point in Vietnam’s fight for independence. 🎭 From Socialist Realism to Global Stage After independence, the Opera House hosted plays and performances centered on Socialist Realism and revolutionary ideals. However, following a major restoration in the early 2000s, the building returned to its former grandeur, once again shining as a cultural hub. Today in 2025, it remains a living monument where history, art, and architecture merge. ✨ Architectural Grandeur Step inside (or even admire from outside), and you’ll instantly understand why this is one of Hanoi’s crown jewels. 🕯️ Interiors That Breathe Elegance The Opera House is adorned with: Crystal chandeliers ✨ Sweeping marble staircases 🪞 Ornate Parisian mirrors Red velvet seats and golden accents Every detail reflects Parisian luxury, yet it has been carefully restored to preserve authenticity. 🌙 Exterior Beauty If you don’t attend a show, don’t worry. The facade is a masterpiece in itself — especially under: Evening floodlights 🌆 The soft glow of a full moon 🌕 Early morning golden light 🌞 It’s a photographer’s dream, and many locals gather here just to enjoy the atmosphere. 🎶 Performances & Events in 2025 The Hanoi Opera House isn’t just about history — it’s an active cultural hub. 🎻 What You Can See In 2025, the Opera House continues to host: Classical concerts featuring Vietnamese and international orchestras 🎼 Ballet & opera performances in collaboration with global companies 🩰 Traditional Vietnamese music and dance shows with modern interpretations 🎶 Contemporary fusion events, blending Vietnamese instruments with Western symphonies 🎷 💡 Pro Tip Tickets often sell out quickly, especially for international collaborations. Book online directly at the official Hanoi Opera House website or via reputable Vietnamese ticketing platforms. 🍵 Experiences Around the Opera House The Opera House is located in the French Quarter, one of Hanoi’s most elegant districts. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss nearby: ☕ Café Terrace at Sofitel Metropole Hotel – enjoy afternoon tea in Hanoi’s most iconic hotel. 🛍️ Trang Tien Plaza – luxury shopping and local designer boutiques. 🎨 L’Espace (Institut Français) – exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events. 🌳 Hoan Kiem Lake – just a short walk away, perfect for an evening stroll. 📸 Best Photo Spots For the perfect Opera House picture in 2025: 📍 Across Trang Tien Street – for a full frontal view. 📍 From the side boulevards – to capture the columns and angles. 📍 At night – when the building glows in golden light. 📍 During Tet Festival – when the Opera House is decorated with flowers and lights. 🗺️ Practical Travel Tips (2025) 🕰️ Opening Hours The Opera House is only open to the public during performances and special tours. If you don’t attend a show, you can still admire the exterior anytime. 🎟️ Ticket Prices Local performances: From 150,000 VND (~6 USD) International shows: Up to 2,500,000 VND (~100 USD) Guided tours (when available): Around 200,000–300,000 VND (~8–12 USD) 🚕 Getting There 🚶 Walking: Only 10–15 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake. 🚖 Taxi or Grab: Affordable and convenient. 🚲 Cyclo ride: A charming old-fashioned way to arrive. 👜 Dress Code While not extremely strict, smart casual is recommended. Locals often dress elegantly for evening shows. 🌟 Why Visit the Hanoi Opera House in 2025? It’s Hanoi’s most iconic colonial building. It’s a living museum of Vietnamese history — from colonial times to independence. It offers world-class performances in a unique setting. It’s surrounded by the French Quarter’s charm — perfect for a half-day cultural stroll. 🎭 Final Thoughts The Hanoi Opera House is more than just a building — it’s a symbol of Hanoi’s identity. From colonial glamour to revolutionary history and modern-day cultural rebirth, it has witnessed the city’s greatest transformations. In 2025, whether you attend a world-class ballet, enjoy a Vietnamese traditional concert, or simply admire its architecture under the moonlight, the Opera House promises an unforgettable experience. 👉 My advice: Don’t just pass by. Book a performance, step inside, and let the magic of Hanoi’s Opera House transport you across time.

Reviews

5/5
Excellent
(115 Reviews)
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115 reviews on this Tour - Showing 46 to 60
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Barry
12/04/2025

Excellent!

Myanmar with Indochina Royal Travel was an unforgettable adventure. The itinerary was well crafted to include key sights and cultural experiences. The hotels were cozy and authentic, and the guides spoke excellent English, sharing fascinating local stories. Their professionalism and care ensured a seamless and enriching travel experience.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Ana
12/04/2025

Excellent!

Traveling with Indochina Royal Travel to Myanmar felt seamless and enjoyable thanks to their outstanding service. The English-speaking guides were approachable and informative, giving deep insights into the local culture and history. The accommodations were comfortable, and the itinerary was well-paced, allowing us to experience everything without feeling rushed.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Sue
10/04/2025

Excellent!

I didn’t expect such a high level of service after booking online, but Indochina Royal Travel truly delivered. Our Myanmar trip was well-paced and featured breathtaking sites. The guide was fluent in English and made every location come alive with stories. Everything exceeded our expectations.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Jean
10/04/2025

Excellent!

I enjoyed my Laos trip arranged by Indochina Royal Travel immensely. The accommodations were authentic yet comfortable, creating a perfect environment for cultural immersion. The itinerary was well paced, allowing time for both exploration and relaxation. Our English-speaking guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Ana
10/04/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar tour with Indochina Royal Travel was remarkable. The hotels were cozy and reflected the local culture well. The itinerary included cultural immersion and sightseeing, all managed smoothly by the professional staff. The English-speaking guides were warm and expert storytellers, making each stop deeply meaningful.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Debbie
10/04/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel’s Myanmar tours are exceptional in every way. The itinerary was thoughtfully curated, the hotels comfortable and authentic, and the guides fluent in English and extremely professional. I felt valued as a customer due to their quick responses and genuine care, making the experience unforgettable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Hayley
06/04/2025

Excellent!

We had an unforgettable time in Cambodia thanks to Indochina Royal Travel’s outstanding service. The tour was well-paced and filled with local experiences. Our guide was engaging and very fluent in English, which helped us understand everything from temple symbolism to market customs. The entire experience was smooth and highly enjoyable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Janelle
06/04/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel’s Myanmar tour was an enriching and smooth experience. The itinerary was perfectly balanced between exploration and relaxation, the hotels were comfortable, and the English-speaking guides were enthusiastic and informative. Their professionalism and attention to customer needs made the trip both comfortable and unforgettable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Alec
06/04/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar journey with Indochina Royal Travel was exceptional. The hotels were authentic and cozy, enhancing the cultural atmosphere. The itinerary balanced exploration and relaxation perfectly. The English-speaking guides were warm, professional, and deeply knowledgeable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Gordon
05/04/2025

Excellent!

I highly recommend Indochina Royal Travel for exploring Laos. The accommodations were authentic and comfortable, adding to the cultural immersion. The English-speaking guides were approachable, knowledgeable, and patient, sharing interesting stories and cultural knowledge that made the trip enriching and enjoyable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Gabrielle
05/04/2025

Excellent!

The Vietnam tour was flawless from the first airport pickup. Indochina Royal Travel made every moment count with smooth planning and top-tier hotels. Our guide’s English was clear, and he answered all our questions with patience and depth. We learned so much and had a great time doing it.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Ryan
05/04/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by Indochina Royal Travel are truly excellent. The hotels were comfortable and well-located, making it easy to explore major attractions. The included meals were delicious and authentic, and the English-speaking guides were professional, friendly, and very informative, enhancing every part of the trip.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Lyric
04/04/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel’s Vietnam tour was a fantastic experience. They arranged beautiful hotels in convenient locations, and the food was a highlight with fresh, authentic Vietnamese dishes. The English-speaking guides were engaging and informative, explaining the history and culture in depth. Their professionalism and attention to detail made the trip easy and highly rewarding.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Thea
04/04/2025

Excellent!

I enjoyed every moment of my Laos journey with Indochina Royal Travel. The company made sure we were comfortable, safe, and engaged throughout the trip. The English-speaking guides offered fascinating commentary that added layers of meaning to temples, villages, and landscapes. I appreciated the thoughtfully chosen hotels, each with its own character.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Kathleen
03/04/2025

Excellent!

I was initially hesitant about booking online, but Indochina Royal Travel’s Cambodia tour quickly won me over. Their team was responsive and tailored the itinerary to my preferences. The hotels were spotless and comfortable, and the English-speaking guides provided deep cultural insights that made the trip truly unforgettable.

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