Northern Vietnam Discovery

Arrive in Hanoi – the charming capital of Vietnam known for its tree-lined boulevards, peaceful lakes, and rich history. After landing at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be picked up by our driver (without guide) and transferred to your hotel in the city center.

Standard hotel check-in time is after 14:00 (early check-in is subject to availability). You’ll have the rest of the day at leisure to relax after your flight or start discovering the city on your own. Whether it’s strolling through the Old Quarter or enjoying a bowl of pho at a local spot, Hanoi has something for everyone.

Lunch and dinner are at your own arrangement. Overnight in Hanoi.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Between 08:30 and 09:00, you will be picked up and head east for a 3.5-hour drive to Ha Long Bay by shuttle bus (private vehicle provided for group from 8 pax). Along the way, admire the peaceful countryside of the Red River Delta, where rice paddies stretch across the landscape and farmers work with buffaloes in traditional scenes of rural life.

Arrive at Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, often called the “Bay of Descending Dragons.” Board your overnight cruise and enjoy a welcome drink as the boat sets sail into the emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts and islets.

After lunch on board, enjoy a range of activities such as visiting caves, swimming, or kayaking. You’ll pass floating fishing villages and get up close to dramatic rock formations. Later, take part in a cooking demonstration before a delicious dinner is served onboard.

In the evening, join optional activities or relax at your own leisure. Overnight on the cruise.

Cruise Notes:

• Itinerary and timeline are subject to change depending on weather and cruise operations

• All activities are optional – feel free to relax on the boat if you prefer

• Please inform us in advance of any dietary needs (at least 48 hours before departure)

• Valid passport is required for cruise check-in

Start your day early to catch the magical sunrise over the limestone islands—an unforgettable experience in the “Eastern Sea,” as the Vietnamese call it.

Enjoy breakfast on board as the cruise continues through the bay, passing iconic islets such as Sail Island, Fisherman’s Head, Butterfly Rock, and Turtle Islet. Take in the peaceful morning atmosphere and capture your last photos of this stunning natural wonder.

After a light brunch, check out and disembark at the pier. The shuttle bus (or private transfer for groups) will take you back to Hanoi. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.

Lunch and dinner are on your own arrangement. Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, depart at 08:30 AM for a full-day adventure to Ninh Binh, known as “Ha Long Bay on land.” First stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Explore the remnants of this historic site and learn about its past glory.

Continue to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its scenic landscapes and karst formations. Hop on a traditional boat and drift through peaceful waterways, caves, and lush green surroundings.

After a local lunch, ride a bike through the countryside to discover the authentic rural life of Ninh Binh. End the day with a visit to Mua Cave. Climb nearly 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of Tam Coc and the surrounding valleys.

Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon. Dinner on your own. Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, begin your half-day tour of Hanoi’s cultural highlights. Visit the outside of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an important symbol of Vietnamese history, located in the historic Ba Dinh Square.

Then, explore the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, beautifully situated on the edge of West Lake. Just nearby, stop by Quan Thanh Temple, one of Hanoi’s Four Sacred Temples, dedicated to the Deity of the North in Taoism.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport by private car for your international flight home.

We sincerely thank you for traveling with Viet Prestige Travel and hope to welcome you back on your next adventure in Vietnam!