Your journey begins in Hanoi, Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital where layers of history blend seamlessly with modern life. Tree-lined boulevards, French-influenced architecture, hidden cafés, and a refined culinary culture give the city a timeless charm. This morning, you explore some of Hanoi’s most significant cultural landmarks before heading east toward the coast.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the Mausoleum area, the Presidential Palace, and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, which offer insight into the life and legacy of Vietnam’s modern founder. Nearby stands the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi whose origins date back nearly a thousand years.

Note: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, and annually for maintenance from September to November. During closures, visitors can still explore the surrounding complex and take photos. Please dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees when visiting sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Complex, temples, and pagodas.

Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, founded in the 11th century and dedicated to Confucian learning. Its tranquil courtyards and ancient stone stelae provide a peaceful contrast to the city’s bustling streets.

In the afternoon, depart Hanoi for Ha Long City, a scenic drive of approximately 2.5 hours with a refreshment stop along the way. As you approach Quang Ninh Province, the landscape opens toward the sea, signaling your arrival in one of Vietnam’s most famous coastal regions.

Visitors will have the chance to explore Tuan Chau Island, often described as a “shining pearl” of the city. Located just 2 km from the city center, this 400-hectare island is connected to the mainland by a 2 km causeway, making it easily accessible. Thanks to its prime location, Tuan Chau serves as a key gateway to Ha Long Bay and stands out as a must-visit destination on Quang Ninh’s tourism map.

The remainder of the day is free at leisure. Suggested evening activities include exploring Ha Long Night Market for local snacks and souvenirs, or enjoying a relaxed stroll along Ha Long Walking Street, where live music, street performances, and cafés create a lively seaside atmosphere.

Overnight in Ha Long.

A morning in Ha Long begins gently, with a cool sea breeze and the first light of day dancing across the emerald waters. The journey leads visitors to the Bai Chay Lighthouse, a prominent symbol of Ha Long City. Standing at 55.5m, it is the tallest lighthouse in Vietnam, offering not only a fascinating visit but also breathtaking panoramic views of the entire bay.

Afterward, guests can take a leisurely stroll to breathe in the fresh salt air at Bai Chay Beach, taking in the serene beauty of the blue sea and white sands in the quiet morning light.

The second and third days of the journey offer two distinct ways to experience Ha Long Bay—a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its thousands of limestone karsts rising from the jade-green water.

OPTIONAL TOUR: OVERNIGHT ON CRUISE (Price: 125 USD/ person (Twin-shared))

DAY 1:

11:30 Arrive at Halong International Cruise Port – Bai Chay – Ha Long, express check-in before boarding.

12:15 Check-in aboard with a welcome drink from crew member while the manager introduces the safety briefing and the boat cruises to the Bai Tu Long Bay.

13:15 Let your vacation start with a delicious lunch in the restaurant.

15:30 Discover Thien Canh Son cave located on top of mountain, containing the long history of geological value and natural beauty. Recommend you bring camera and wear sport shoes for hiking.

17:30 Enjoy your time with the beautiful sunset on the bay and join “Happy Hour”

18:00 Cooking class on sundeck with the Deep Fried Spring rolls, one of the unique flavor of Vietnamese food.

19:30 Dinner will be served on sundeck or restaurant.

21:00 Feel free to relax on boat, join Squid fishing at the area of Reception deck.

Note:Cruise itinerary may vary depending on weather and operational conditions. Detailed cruise schedule will be confirmed upon booking.

FOR GUESTS NOT JOINING THE OPTIONAL TOUR ON DAY 2:

Free time to relax or explore Halong City.

Overnight in Ha Long.

OPTIONAL TOUR: OVERNIGHT ON CRUISE

DAY 2:

06:30 Start your day with the Taichi on sundeck.

07:00 Light breakfast serve in dining room.

07:45 Visiting Vung Vieng floating fishing village, one of the biggestvillages in HaLong Bay, you will have the chance to learn about fishermen’s living and feel free with some option activities: bamboo boat or kayaking.

09:00 Back to the main boat for relaxing and check out at the reception, please put all your luggage at the outside of your cabin door, crew member will help to bring luggage on land.

09:45 Brunch is served in the restaurant while the boat heads back to the harbor.

11:00 Disembark at the harbor.

Note: Cruise itinerary may vary depending on weather and operational conditions. Detailed cruise schedule will be confirmed upon booking.

FOR GUESTS NOT JOINING THE OPTIONAL TOUR ON DAY 2:

Today, the journey offers you the chance to explore Ha Long City at your own pace with two exciting choices: delve into local history and culture at the Quang Ninh Museum.

13.00: The whole group gathers at the meeting point and departs for Ninh Binh

Begin the journey south to Ninh Binh, a region often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on Land.” As you leave the coast behind, the scenery gradually shifts to poetic rivers, limestone mountains, and vast rice fields. Ninh Binh is home to the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Mixed Heritage Site where natural beauty and ancient history coexist.

Upon arrival, visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital in the 10th century. Explore the historic temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le, and learn about the early foundations of the Vietnamese state before the capital moved to Hanoi.

In the evening, enjoy free time with suggested activities such as strolling along Dao Duy Tu Walking Street, visiting Ky Lan Mountain for city views, or dining riverside in Tam Coc, where illuminated karst cliffs and calm waterways create a romantic atmosphere.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

In the morning, immerse yourself in the tranquil charm of Ninh Binh, where limestone karsts rise majestically from emerald waters and rural villages maintain their timeless, traditional rhythm. This region is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and distinctive local cuisine, including mountain goat meat, crispy rice crust (com chay), and fresh river fish.

As our journey winds through the lush, verdant roads of Ninh Binh—often hailed as the “shining landscape painting” of Northern Vietnam—a variety of experiences await.

Bich Dong Pagoda – An Ancient Grotto Sanctuary

Nestled in the heart of the heritage site, Bich Dong Pagoda was originally named “Bach Ngoc Thach Son Dong,” meaning “a stone pagoda as pure and beautiful as white jade in the remote mountains.” It was not until 1774, during a visit by Lord Trinh Sam, that it was renamed to its current name, Bich Dong (Emerald Grotto).

Tam Coc Wharf – “Ha Long Bay on Land”

Tam Coc, which translates to “Three Caves” (Ca, Hai, and Ba caves), features stunning natural tunnels carved by the Ngo Dong River as it pierces through the mountains. Tam Coc Wharf serves as the gateway to this “Ha Long Bay on Land,” where traditional sampans glide peacefully along the river, flanked by towering limestone cliffs and endless, shimmering rice paddies.

The area surrounding the wharf is lined with charming local streets. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll, discover quaint cafes, enjoy regional specialties like mountain goat and crispy rice, or browse souvenir shops filled with intricate handicrafts.

In the afternoon, depart for Mai Chau Valley, ascending into the cooler highlands. Stop at Thung Khe (Mai Chau Viewpoint) for panoramic views over the valley below, dotted with Thai ethnic stilt houses and rice fields.

Arrive in Mai Chau, a peaceful valley known for its traditional villages, woven textiles, and warm hospitality. Spend the evening exploring local crafts, enjoying traditional performances, or simply relaxing in the tranquil countryside.

Overnight in Mai Chau.

Today’s journey continues through Vietnam’s northwestern highlands. Travel to Moc Chau, a cool-climate plateau famous for rolling tea hills, dairy farms, and seasonal blossoms. The area is home to diverse ethnic communities, whose vibrant cultures are reflected in local markets and daily life.

Visit Moc Chau Island, a modern highland tourism complex blending natural scenery with entertainment attractions. Highlights include the Bach Long Glass Bridge, one of the world’s longest and highest glass bridges, offering dramatic views over deep valleys.

Continue onward to Nghia Lo in Yen Bai Province, the cultural heartland of the Thai people and gateway to the vast Muong Lo Rice Fields. The region’s open landscapes and enduring traditions provide a deeper understanding of life in Vietnam’s mountainous northwest.

Overnight in Nghia Lo.

Travel deeper into Yen Bai Province to reach Mu Cang Chai, renowned for its spectacular terraced rice fields carved into steep mountain slopes by generations of H’mong farmers. Recognized as a National Heritage Site, these terraces form one of the most striking agricultural landscapes in Asia.

Seasonal highlights:

• July–mid October: Visit Mong Ngua Viewpoint and Mam Xoi (Rice Tray) Viewpoint, where layered terraces resemble a giant tray of sticky rice.
• Late October–July: Explore the tranquil Bamboo Forest, offering a serene, misty walking experience.

Note: Due to the local terrain, large coaches are unable to access the attraction directly. Guests will be transferred from the main highway to the site via local motorbikes. This fee is not included in the tour price and is payable directly on-site based on actual rates. Our tour guide will be available on-site to assist with arranging motorbikes for all guests.

Continue toward Sapa, stopping at the dramatic O Quy Ho Pass Viewpoint near 2,000 meters above sea level. On clear days, enjoy views toward Fansipan, while shifting clouds create an ever-changing mountain atmosphere.

Arrive in Sapa, a former French hill station nestled among misty peaks and ethnic minority villages.

Overnight in Sapa.

The morning in Sa Pa begins with a sense of gentle relaxation amidst the signature cool air of the highlands. A light mist still lingers over the verdant mountain ranges, creating a tranquil and poetic backdrop for this mountain town. It is the perfect time for visitors to stroll leisurely and embrace the slow-paced rhythm of Sa Pa as a new day unfolds.

The journey leads guests to the Sa Pa Stone Church, an ancient architectural gem steeped in French heritage that has stood as the town’s icon for over a century. Just ahead lies Sa Pa Square, a vibrant hub for local cultural activities and a popular vantage point to admire the majestic mountain scenery surrounding the town.

In the crisp morning air, whether it is enjoying a steaming cup of coffee or taking a slow walk across the square, every moment is enough to fully capture the peaceful and romantic essence of Sa Pa. You may choose from several optional experiences before departure.

In the afternoon, descend from the highlands and return to Hanoi, where the familiar rhythm of the capital marks the conclusion of your northern Vietnam journey.