7-Day Northern Vietnam Discovery: Sapa, Ninh Binh & Halong Bay

7 days (approximately)
Offered in: English

In just seven days, experience the most spectacular destinations in Northern Vietnam—its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, rich history, and warm-hearted people. Step inside the legendary Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most impressive limestone cavern in UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay. Continue to the enchanting province of Ninh Binh, a magical land of winding rivers, golden rice fields, and dramatic karst formations.

Your journey then takes you to Sapa, a charming mountain town where adventure, natural beauty, and cultural heritage come together. Trek through ethnic minority villages, meet local communities, and take in sweeping valley views. Along the way, savor Vietnam’s iconic street food, discover historic landmarks, kayak or swim in Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters, and enjoy fresh seafood amid awe-inspiring scenery. This 7-day adventure offers a complete and unforgettable immersion into the heart of Northern Vietnam.

What's Included

Ninh Binh Day Trip: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital- Tam Coc Boat Trip- Mua Cave Hiking, Biking
Muong Hoa Valley, Y Linh Ho Village, Lao Chai Village, Ta Van Village, Cat Cat Village
Entrance fees
Meals (not drink) as stated in the itinerary (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner)
1 Way Overnight Train Hanoi - Sapa ( share cabin )
Lunch (Optional[5])
Lunch
Dinner
English-speaking guide
Breakfast (Optional[6])
Breakfast
Transfers: Airport Pick up and drop off as per your flight timings, comfortable and hygienic vehicle
2 Days 1 Night cruise exploring the most stunning beauty of Ha Long Bay Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island
Personal Expenses & Beverages
Holiday surcharge & All other services not clearly mentioned above

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Noi Bai International Airport

Meet our driver at Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi and board your transfers to reach the hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 7 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    DAY 1: HA NOI ARRIVAL

    2 stops
  • 1
    Noi Bai International Airport

    Upon reaching Hanoi, complete the immigration and visa on arrival process at the airport. Meet our driver at the airport and board your transfers to reach the pre-booked hotel.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Old Quarter

    Complete the check-in procedure at the hotel and get ready to explore this capital city of Vietnam. Free time for leisure to enjoy Old Quarter to enjoy the bustling local life. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers. It's a great place to explore with plenty of photo opportunities all around you. Return back to the hotel for an overnight stay.  

    15 hours Admission ticket included
  • Day 2

    DAY 2: HOA LU – TAM COC – MUA CAVE DAY TRIP ( B/L )

    6 stops
  • 3
    Old Quarter

    After getting up and enjoy your tasty breakfast at hotel in Hanoi, be ready to get picked up by our friendly guide then depart for Ninh Binh province. On the way, you will have a short break for 15 – 20 minutes to relax.

    3 hours Admission ticket included
  • 4
    Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

    Then reach Ninh Binh after approximately 2 hours. You will visit Hoa Lư, ancient capital of Vietnam between 968 and 1010. You have a chance to learn about Vietnamese history in the feudal system under Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasty.  

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 5
    Ninh Binh

    Then in the middle of day, you will have lunch in the restaurant with a lot of local foods such as goat meat, fish, chicken, fried rice…. Vegetarian foods are always available in the buffet lunch.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Tam Cốc-Bich Dộng

    After lunch, you will visit Tam Coc by 1.5-hour bamboo boat. You will be surprised by the charming beauty her with paddy fields, river, water, cloud, sky, and a stunning cave system during the boat trip. All make a masterpiece that the Vietnamese people called “Ha Long Bay on land”. Continue the tour for 45 mins - cycling around the village to discover the life of the local people.  

    3 hours Admission ticket included
  • 7
    Mua Caves

    Get back to the bus then leave for Mua Cave (Dancing Cave). Walk up almost 500 steps, you can reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain & have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 8
    Old Quarter

    After the tour ends, you will get on the bus to return to Hanoi and drop you off at hotel at Hanoi Old Quarter.

    2 hours 30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • Day 3

    DAY 3: HA NOI – HA LONG BAY ( B/L/D )

    2 stops
  • 9
    Old Quarter

    Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel and gear up for an exciting excursion to the stunning Halong Bay. Embark on a fascinating journey through the Red River Delta, where you can witness the day-to-day lifestyle of the Vietnamese villagers.

    3 hours Admission ticket included
  • 10
    Hạ Long Bay

    Upon arrival at Halong, hop on board a luxurious cruise ship and receive a warm welcome from the friendly crew members. In the afternoon, explore some of the hidden gems scattered across the Bay of the Descending Dragon. Get enchanted by the fascinating caves, pristine beaches, picturesque floating villages, and incredible rock formations emerging from the emerald waters. Relish a delectable lunch on board and enjoy some leisure time. You can learn the art of making spring rolls by attending the chef's cooking demonstration or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views. As the sun sets, marvel at the stunning colors painting the sky while lounging on the sundeck of your cruise. In the evening, treat your taste buds to a delicious dinner accompanied by a wide selection of wines and beverages (additional cost for drinks).   Stay overnight on the luxurious cruise amidst the tranquil and captivating Halong Bay.

    6 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 4

    DAY 4: HA LONG BAY – HA NOI - SAPA ( B/L )

    3 stops
  • 11
    Hạ Long Bay

    Experience the enchantment of a new day in Halong Bay as you rise early and behold the mesmerizing sunrise casting its golden hues over the vast bay. Engage in a revitalizing Tai Chi session on the Sundeck, allowing the gentle movements to invigorate your body and rejuvenate your spirit. Begin your day with a light and nourishing breakfast, preparing you for the adventures that lie ahead. Indulge in a delightful brunch adorned with vibrant colors as you continue your cruise through this picturesque haven.   Embark on a captivating exploration of Halong Bay, navigating through over 2000 islets that dot the azure waters. Discover the awe-inspiring caves, each adorned with natural wonders that will leave you breathless. Unwind on stunning beaches, basking in the warmth of the sun's rays while reveling in the serenity that surrounds you. Immerse yourself in the charm of the floating villages, capturing the essence of traditional life amidst this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    4 hours Admission ticket free
  • 12
    Old Quarter

    As the day draws to a close, return to the vibrant city of Hanoi. Around 4.00 pm, get back to Hanoi. Here, you can indulge in a delectable dinner of your own before embarking on an extraordinary Sleeping train ( share Cabin ) journey to Sapa.

    5 hours Admission ticket included
  • 13

    Around 9:00 - 10.00 pm, departs from Hanoi Train Station, carrying you towards the captivating destination of Lao Cai. Allow the rhythmic motion of the sleeping bus to lull you into a restful sleep, as anticipation for the wonders that await in Sapa fills your dreams. 

    7 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 5

    DAY 5: SAPA – LAO CHAI - TAVAN ( B/L/D )

    4 stops
  • 14

    *Optional: Trekking by the less busy way and stay in the homestay with local people! 6.00: Meet our driver at Lao Cai Train Station then wait to be whisked away to the enchanting town of Sapa, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes. Relax and take in the mesmerizing views during the scenic uphill drive, which grants you an initial glimpse of the awe-inspiring vistas and the magnificent rice terraces that grace this region.  

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 15
    Sapa

    Upon reaching your destination, be warmly received at the hotel. If your room is available, an early check-in will be arranged for your comfort. Alternatively, during the interim, you will be provided access to a basic room where you can refresh yourself before indulging in a delightful breakfast.   At 09:30, let the adventure unfold as you embark on a 6-kilometer trek downhill towards the Southeast of Sapa, traversing the captivating Muong Hoa Valley towards Y Linh Ho village, the ancestral abode of the Black H'mong people. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this community as you stroll through their village, taking in the sights, sounds, and traditions that define their way of life. Continuing onwards, an additional 3-kilometer trek leads you to the picturesque Lao Chai village, where a delectable lunch awaits. Delight in the flavors of the region, nourishing both your body and soul.  

    3 hours Admission ticket free
  • 16
    Ta Van Village

    Resume your trek, meandering through the terraced rice fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, ultimately arriving at the charming Ta Van village, home to the Tay minority. This portion of the trek, while relatively easy, may present some challenges if rain has rendered the trails slippery. It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear, ensuring your safety and comfort.  

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 17
    Sapa

    As the clock nears 15:00, embark on a shared bus journey back to Sapa, where you will check back into the hotel. With the remainder of the day at your leisure, seize the opportunity to explore the vibrant Sapa town, with its bustling market brimming with an array of vibrant handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance, discovering treasures that serve as delightful mementos of your Sapa sojourn. Overnight in Sapa town (homestay available upon request).  

    10 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 6

    DAY 6: SAPA – CAT CAT VILLAGE- HANOI ( B/L )

    4 stops
  • 18
    Sapa

    Commence the second day of your remarkable journey after a delightful breakfast at 8:00 AM. Prepare to venture into the captivating villages situated in the southwest region of Sapa, approximately 4 kilometers away.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 19

    Your first destination is Cat Cat village, a charming enclave that serves as the ancestral home of the Black H'mong community. As you embark on this trek, be prepared to feast your eyes upon breathtaking vistas that unfold before you. Admire the enchanting beauty of a picturesque waterfall, cascading gracefully amidst the lush surroundings. Witness the vestiges of a hydro-electric power station, a testament to the region's history, dating back to the early 20th century. Immerse yourself in the local way of life as you observe villagers diligently tending to the fertile paddy rice fields. Capture heartwarming moments of children joyfully playing, while water buffaloes, pot-bellied pigs, and chickens add to the bucolic ambiance. Take advantage of the opportunity to capture up-close photographs, preserving these precious memories.  

    4 hours Admission ticket included
  • 20
    Sapa

    At noon, satiate your hunger with a delectable lunch served in the town, savoring the flavors of the region while immersed in the cultural tapestry that surrounds you. At 2:00 PM, embark on a comfortable VIP sleeper cabin bus, transporting you back to the bustling city of Hanoi. Relax and enjoy the journey as you traverse the scenic landscapes, reflecting upon the captivating experiences of your Sapa adventure.  

    3 hours Admission ticket free
  • 21
    Old Quarter

    Anticipate arriving in Hanoi in the evening, around 9:00 - 9:30 PM, where you will spend the night in this vibrant city. Allow yourself to unwind and reflect upon the wonders you have encountered, relishing in the memories of the past days while preparing for future adventures that lie ahead.  

    7 hours Admission ticket included
  • Day 7

    DAY 7: DEPARTURE ( B )

    2 stops
  • 22
    Old Quarter

    Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at the hotel and bid farewell to the friendly hotel staff.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 23
    Noi Bai International Airport

    Check out from the hotel and board your comfortable transfer to the airport, where you will embark on your journey back home with a heart full of unforgettable memories and experiences from your amazing Vietnam Tour.

    1 hour Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Chill Tourist

Tags

Hiking Tours
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Mountain Bike Tours
Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
4WD Tours
Walking Tours
Kayaking Tours
Multi-day Cruises
Underground Tours
Water Tours
Nature Walks
Bike Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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