Jewels of Hanoi, Sapa & Halong Bay

From: $413 4-star hotels

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Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Cat Cat Village

Embark on a journey that begins and concludes in Hanoi! With the Explorer tour “Gems of Hanoi, Sapa & Halong Bay – 7 Days,” you will experience a 7-day tour package that immerses you in the wonders of Hanoi, Vietnam, and three other captivating destinations. This adventure features accommodations in well-selected hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, delicious meals, convenient transportation, and much more.

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

<span> Day 1</span> Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam

Upon your arrival at the airport, our amiable representative will extend a warm greeting, and a car will be at your service to transport you directly to the ideally situated hotel. This establishment provides the perfect starting point for exploring the enchanting Hanoi Old Town at your own pace. Enjoy your overnight stay in Hanoi.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi City Tour full day

We will meet you for a comprehensive exploration of Hanoi's rich offerings throughout the day. In the morning, you'll visit the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, the esteemed founder of the nation (closed on Monday & Friday), the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's stilt house, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, you'll explore the remarkable Museum of Ethnology, focusing on Vietnam's 54 officially recognized ethnic groups. The itinerary includes visits to the scenic West Lake, Tran Vu Pagoda, the serene Restored Sword Lake (Hoan Kiem Lake), and the Ngoc Son Temple. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Quarter's bustling streets with a one-hour rickshaw ride and conclude the day with a captivating traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form. Your overnight stay will be in Hanoi.

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi - Sapa - Cat Cat Village - Sapa

Between 6:30 and 7:00 am, our designated driver and tour guide will pick you up from your Hanoi hotel for your journey to Sapa. By 10:00 am, you'll be following the scenic highway to Lao Cai City, with a pleasant break en route to Sapa. At 13:00 pm, you'll arrive in Sapa and be captivated by the vibrant traditional attire of the H'mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic groups. Enjoy welcome drinks and receive an overview of the itinerary, followed by a delicious lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes before checking in to your hotel.

At 14:30 pm, embark on a downhill hike to Cat Cat village nestled in the Muong Hoa Valley. Take in the breathtaking views of the valley, stretching towards Fansipan, Vietnam and Indochina's highest peak. Explore the Black H'mong's traditional stilt houses, observing activities such as weaving, embroidery, and clothes drying. Continue the walk to the impressive Cat Cat Waterfall, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

By 17:00 pm, return to Sapa town for dinner, and enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Sapa Market and the town itself.

<span> Day 4</span> Trek to Lao Chai - Ta Van Villages | Back to Hanoi

Commence your trek around 9:00 am from Sapa, heading towards a different section of Muong Hoa Valley, offering awe-inspiring landscapes of the mountainous terrain. Traverse through verdant rice terraces to reach Lao Chai village, immersing yourself in the daily life and rich cultural heritage of the Black H’mong community.

By 11:30 am, arrive at Ta Van village, inhabited by the Tay minority, showcasing a distinctive influence from Chinese culture. A bus will then take you back to Sapa.

Take advantage of free time in Sapa from 14:30 pm for personal refreshment.

At 15:15 pm, board a bus for the return journey to Hanoi.

Expect to arrive in Hanoi at 21:15 pm.

Between 7:30 am and 8:30 am, our team will pick you up at your accommodation in Hanoi Old Quarter.

During the journey to Halong Bay, we'll make a brief stop at an arts and crafts center. Here, you can observe local craftspeople at work and grab a quick snack.

Around 12:00 pm, we'll reach the port, where you'll be transferred to the Glory Legend Cruise.

Upon boarding, enjoy a welcome drink and receive a cruise briefing along with safety instructions during check-in.

Lunch will be served with a selection of delicious Vietnamese dishes as you sail through the bay, passing by the impressive limestone formations.

Embark on a bamboo craft guided by indigenous locals, navigating through a captivating cave formation into a serene bay where you might even spot some monkeys.

Relax on Ti Top Beach, swim in the warm waters, sunbathe, or trek to the summit for panoramic views.

As the boat sails towards Luon Bo area, take advantage of free time and anchor overnight.

Participate in a Cooking class on the sundeck, followed by Happy Hour (Buy one drink, get one free). Witness the breathtaking sunset over Halong Bay.

From 19:30 to 23:00 pm, savor a Deluxe Vietnamese and International BBQ Set Menu Dinner.

Evening activities offer leisure time for chatting at the bar, watching movies and various Vietnamese cultural films, or enjoying a romantic night with music. Board games like chess and playing cards are available, as well as reading magazines in your room and the dining area. Additionally, try your hand at squid fishing or fishing directly from the boat.

The day concludes at 23:00 pm.

Between 6:00 am and 7:00 am, the day commences early with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan, incorporates deep breathing and relaxation with slow, gentle movements.

From 7:00 am to 8:00 am, enjoy coffee, tea, and pastries for breakfast served in the dining room while taking in the morning view of the bay's landscape.

Between 8:00 am and 9:30 am, explore Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest caves in Halong Bay, featuring beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

From 9:30 am to 11:00 am, indulge in brunch while cruising back to Tuan Chau Wharf. Relax and absorb the final views of Halong Bay.

Check-out is before 11:30 am.

At 12:00 pm, depart from Halong Bay for Hanoi.

By 3:30 pm, our team will drop you off at your hotel. Check-in and stay overnight in Hanoi.

Enjoy a leisurely morning on your own before our Private Car takes you to the Airport for your homeward flight. Conclude your unforgettable Hanoi & Halong Bay journey with Legend Travel Group. Farewell and until we meet again!

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, Halong Bay, Sapa, Cat Cat Village

The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.