North of Viet Nam Highlight 7 days 6 nights

Tour Code: IC10POCY1IP8

5 (115 Reviews)

Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay

From: $411 4-star hotels

(115 reviews)

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Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay

Commence and conclude your journey in Hanoi! Embark on the North of Vietnam Highlight 7 days 6 nights, a comprehensive 7-day tour that navigates you through Hanoi, Vietnam, and three other captivating destinations. This tour package encompasses accommodation in well-selected hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, delectable meals, seamless transportation, and 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

Arrive in Hanoi! Our team will warmly greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Upon completing the check-in process, the remainder of the day is at your leisure. Hanoi, a vibrant and lively city, serves as one of the nation's historic centers, the economic hub, and a torchbearer of cultural heritage. Within the bustling cityscape, you'll discover the enduring traditions and charm of an ancient culture.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi – Sapa – Cat Cat – Sapa

Between 6:30 and 7:00 AM, our dedicated driver and knowledgeable tour guide will be at your hotel in Hanoi to commence our journey to Sapa.

By 10:00 AM, we'll embark on a scenic route to Lao Cai City, with a pleasant break along the way to Sapa.

Upon reaching Sapa by 1:00 PM, you'll be greeted by the vibrant traditional attire of the H'mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic groups. Welcome drinks and a briefing on the itinerary will be provided, followed by a delicious lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes before checking into the hotel.

Starting at 2:30 PM, we'll begin a downhill trek to Cat Cat village, nestled at the base of Muong Hoa Valley. Revel in the breathtaking views of the valley, with the majestic Fansipan, Vietnam and Indochina's highest peak, as your backdrop. Upon arrival in Cat Cat, explore traditional stilt houses of the Black H'mong, witnessing activities like weaving, embroidery, and cloth drying. Continue the journey to marvel at the scenic Cat Cat Waterfall, offering an ideal setting for captivating photographs.

By 5:00 PM, return to Sapa town for a delightful dinner. The evening is yours to explore Sapa Market and the town's charm.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

<span> Day 3</span> Sapa – Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van – Sapa – Hanoi

Commencing at 9:00 AM, embark on a trek from Sapa, venturing into another segment of Muong Hoa Valley that unfolds captivating landscapes of the mountainous terrain. Traverse Y Linh Ho, the village of the Black H'mong, and continue the expedition through verdant rice terraces to explore Lao Chai village, immersing yourself in the daily life and traditional culture of the Black H'mong.

By 11:30 AM, reach Ta Van village, inhabited by the Tay minority, characterized by a profound influence from Chinese culture.

Take a bus journey back to Sapa around 2:30 PM, allowing for some leisure time in Sapa to refresh.

At 3:15 PM, board a bus for your return journey to Hanoi.

By 9:15 PM, you'll arrive back in Hanoi, concluding the tour.

<span> Day 4</span> Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Bai Dinh pagoda and Trang An eco complex

Between 7:15 AM and 8:30 AM, our tour guide and driver will collect you from your hotel in Hanoi city, commencing the journey to Ninh Binh province (120 Kms) to embark on the Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda tour.

By 10:30 AM, you will reach Bai Dinh Pagoda, a significant Buddhist sanctuary boasting 500 La Han statues and the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam, standing at 10 meters in height and weighing 100 tons. Delight in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, featuring special dishes such as goat meat with elderberry and pork storage vessel.

At 1:00 PM, proceed to explore the Trang An tourist attraction, partake in a boat excursion to traverse cave complexes like Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Nau Ruou, experiencing the mystery and wilderness while witnessing the scenic beauty reminiscent of Halong Bay on the land of Ninh Binh.

By 4:00 PM, return to Hanoi in a comfortable car.

At 6:00 PM, arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi, concluding the day.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Between 7:45 AM and 8:15 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel (Note: this time applies to those who have booked our shuttle bus service).

At 10:00 AM, take a short break at a stopover in Hai Duong Province.

From 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM, embark on Lavender Cruise, where you'll receive a brief cruise overview and enjoy a welcome drink. Proceed to check into your cabin.

Starting at 1:15 PM, relish a delightful lunch featuring regional fresh seafood. Cruise through the stunning waters, passing by Incense Burner Island, Fighting Cock Islet, Stone Dog, and other captivating landmarks. Lavender Cruise will guide you through the most enchanting route, a path less traveled by other cruises.

Between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM:

Engage in kayaking amidst the breathtaking landscape with limestone mountains in Luon Cave.
Visit Titop Island for swimming or relaxation on the sun-deck, enjoying fantastic views of the bay.
Return to Lavender Cruises and partake in the sunset party.
Cruise by Soi Sim Beach, "Rang Dua" Island, heading to the sleeping area near the Surprising Cave.
Join our Cooking Class in the restaurant, where you'll learn to make fresh/fried spring rolls and mix fish-sauce.
At 7:30 PM, beneath the magnificent night sky, savor our set-menu dinner featuring a variety of Vietnamese and Asian dishes.

Evening activities:

Participate in squid fishing on the boat with our crews. Enjoy the squid cooked with assistance from our chef, indulge in playing cards, karaoke, or simply relax with our happy-hour drinks at the bar.
Overnight on Lavender Cruises.

At 6:15 AM, partake in morning exercises on the Sun-deck.

At 7:15 AM, relish a breakfast featuring coffee, tea, and bakeries served on board.

By 8:00 AM, explore the Surprising Cave (Hang Sung Sot), a discovery made by the French in 1901. Opened to tourists since 1936, it has become a must-see attraction and a symbol of Halong's geological significance.

Around 9:30 AM, it's check-out time. Relax on the sun-deck or inside the restaurant, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the bay.

At 10:15 AM, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch while cruising back to the pier.

By 12:00 PM, complete the cruise check-out. Our car will be ready to pick you up and drive you back to Hanoi.

Between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM, arrive in Hanoi, marking the end of the trip!

Take the remainder of your time in Hanoi at your leisure until your flight departs.

Please note that hotel check-out time is at 12:00 PM.

Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey back home!

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, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay

Trúc Bạch Lake - 🌸 Trúc Bạch Lake – Hanoi’s Hidden Gem Beside West Lake (2025 Travel Guide) 📍 Location: Ba Đình District, Hanoi, Vietnam🕒 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily💸 Entrance Fee: Free (pedal-boat rental available for a small fee)🚲 Nearby Attractions: West Lake (Hồ Tây), Trấn Quốc Pagoda, Quan Thanh Temple 🌿 Introduction: Where Peace Meets History Tucked away beside the grand expanse of West Lake, Trúc Bạch Lake (Hồ Trúc Bạch) offers a quiet, romantic corner of Hanoi where time seems to flow more slowly. Once a royal retreat for Vietnam’s aristocracy, this small but storied lake has evolved into a favorite spot for locals, expats, and travelers seeking calm moments away from the city’s chaos. In 2025, Trúc Bạch remains one of Hanoi’s best-kept secrets — a blend of ancient history, lakeside charm, and everyday local life. Whether you come for a peaceful stroll, a sunset coffee, or a leisurely pedal-boat ride, the atmosphere here feels effortlessly authentic. 🌅✨ 🏰 A Glimpse into the Past: The Story Behind the Name The name “Trúc Bạch” dates back to the 18th century, when the ruling Trịnh Lords built a summer palace on the lake’s shore. It wasn’t all royal luxury, though — legend tells that the palace later became a place of confinement for disfavored concubines and “wayward women” of the court. These women were ordered to weave fine white silk as a form of penance — and thus, the silk became known as “Trúc Bạch silk”, prized for its delicate texture and purity. Today, the lake carries that legacy of beauty and craftsmanship in its very name. 🕊️ 🌸 The Modern Lake: A Local Favorite Fast-forward to 2025, and Trúc Bạch Lake has transformed into a beloved local hangout. The lake’s perimeter, framed by tree-lined streets and charming cafés, exudes a peaceful, almost European ambiance — yet it remains deeply rooted in Hanoi’s spirit. The Thanh Niên Causeway, which separates Trúc Bạch from West Lake, is one of the most scenic roads in Hanoi. 🌳 During summer, flame trees bloom with fiery red blossoms, turning the avenue into a vibrant tunnel of color. Families picnic on the grassy banks, couples stroll hand-in-hand, and street vendors sell refreshing drinks and ice cream. 🍦 In the evenings, the lake glows softly with reflections of lanterns, café lights, and the occasional swan-shaped pedal boat gliding lazily across the water. 🚣‍♀️ It’s peaceful, poetic, and unmistakably Hanoian. ☕ Lakeside Cafés and Dining The Trúc Bạch neighborhood has become one of Hanoi’s most charming dining districts. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern coffee shops, cozy bakeries, and local eateries serving everything from fusion dishes to traditional Vietnamese favorites. A few must-visit spots in 2025 include: Café Trúc Bạch: Perfect for a morning espresso while watching the sunrise shimmer across the lake. ☀️ Maison de Tet Décor: A hidden gem known for organic brunches, vegan options, and rustic interiors. Pho Cuon Huong Mai: Famous for phở cuốn — fresh rice noodle rolls that originated right here in Trúc Bạch! It’s light, delicious, and a local must-try. 🍜 If you’re into food with a story, don’t miss the street stalls that serve fried fermented shrimp paste (bún chả mắm tôm) — the scent might be strong, but the taste is pure northern Vietnamese magic. 🚣‍♀️ Fun on the Water For a bit of lighthearted fun, rent one of the swan-shaped pedal boats that dot the lake. It’s a classic Hanoi pastime that families and couples have enjoyed for decades. 🦢 Pedaling across the lake offers a lovely new perspective — you’ll see the city skyline, the ancient pagoda spires, and the tranquil rhythm of daily life from the water. Rentals are inexpensive (around 50,000–80,000 VND per boat as of 2025) and available all day, especially on weekends. If you prefer to stay on land, simply walk or cycle around the lake. The 1.5-kilometer loop is an easy, breezy route perfect for sunset photography and people-watching. 📷 🛕 Nearby Cultural Highlights Trúc Bạch Lake sits at the heart of one of Hanoi’s most culturally rich districts. Within walking distance, you can explore: Trấn Quốc Pagoda: 🕊️ Located on a small island in West Lake, this 6th-century pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi and a must-see at dusk. Quan Thanh Temple: ⚔️ A beautiful Taoist temple dedicated to Tran Vu, the God of the North, featuring a colossal bronze statue. Chau Long Market: 🍉 An authentic local market where you can browse Vietnamese herbs, tropical fruits, and street snacks. Combining a lake stroll with visits to these nearby attractions makes for a perfect half-day cultural itinerary. 🌇 When to Visit Trúc Bạch Lake ✨ Best Time:Visit early in the morning (6–8 AM) to catch locals exercising and fishermen casting their lines — or come at sunset (5–6 PM) for golden light and a romantic view. 🌤️ Seasonal Tips: Spring (Feb–Apr): Flowers bloom along Thanh Niên Causeway, making it one of Hanoi’s most photogenic spots. Summer (May–Aug): The flame trees turn fiery red, and evenings are lively with street vendors and families. Autumn (Sept–Nov): The weather is cool and crisp, perfect for coffee by the water. Winter (Dec–Jan): Misty mornings give the lake a mysterious, poetic look ideal for photographers. 🏨 Where to Stay Near Trúc Bạch Lake Trúc Bạch’s central yet peaceful location makes it an ideal base for exploring Hanoi. A few recommended options for 2025: The Hanoi Club Hotel & Residences: 🏖️ Overlooking West Lake, offering a pool, spa, and lake-view suites. Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture: Elegant boutique hotel just a short walk away. Local homestays and serviced apartments: Great for long-term stays or travelers who prefer a neighborhood vibe. 🧭 Travel Tips for 2025 ✅ Getting there: Trúc Bạch Lake is about 10 minutes from Hoàn Kiếm Lake by taxi or motorbike. Electric buses and Grab rides are also available.🚲 Getting around: Rent a bike or walk to fully enjoy the relaxed lakeside atmosphere.🍜 What to eat: Don’t miss phở cuốn, bún chả, and Vietnamese...Discovering West Lake - 🌅 Discovering West Lake (Hồ Tây) – Hanoi’s Timeless Escape in 2025 📍 Location: Northwest of Hanoi city center🕓 Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset🚴‍♀️ Activities: Cycling, lakeside cafés, pagoda visits, sunset cruises, and fine dining 🌿 Introduction: Where Tradition Meets Modern Lifestyle Once the tranquil retreat of Vietnam’s emperors, West Lake (Hồ Tây) has now reclaimed its position as Hanoi’s most sophisticated and scenic neighborhood. In 2025, this vast body of water spanning over 500 hectares continues to blend serenity with style — a place where ancient temples, luxury residences, and trendy cafés coexist in perfect harmony. The area has transformed dramatically in recent years, becoming a favored enclave for expats and well-heeled locals. You’ll find modern serviced apartments, high-end fitness clubs, yoga studios with lake views, and rooftop bars that offer breathtaking sunsets. ✨ 🏙️ A Walk Through Modern West Lake If you stroll along Xuan Dieu Street, the area’s bustling main artery, you’ll sense the vibrant energy of modern Hanoi. Stylish restaurants, craft coffee shops, and wine bars line the streets, while boutique stores showcase everything from handmade jewelry to Vietnamese-inspired fashion. In 2025, new luxury developments continue to rise around the lake — yet the charm of tree-lined promenades and lotus ponds remains intact. Whether you’re exploring by foot, electric scooter, or bicycle, the gentle breeze and calm waters provide a welcome escape from the city’s chaos. 🚲💨 ☕ Café Culture by the Water Hanoi’s café scene has truly found its soul around West Lake. From artisan coffee roasters tucked in quiet corners to lakeside cafés with floating decks, every stop offers a unique slice of local life. Some of the most popular spots include: Maison de L'amour Café: Perfect for brunch with a view of the lotus gardens. Tranquil West Lake: A cozy spot to read and watch the sun melt into the horizon. The Loop: Beloved by expats for its hearty breakfast and modern vibe. And yes, you’ll even stumble upon a few taco bars and fusion eateries, a delightful reflection of the area’s growing international community. 🌮🌍 🛕 Cultural Treasures Around the Lake West Lake isn’t just about lifestyle — it’s also deeply steeped in history and spirituality. The area boasts some of Hanoi’s oldest and most revered temples and pagodas, each telling a story from Vietnam’s imperial past. Highlights include: Trấn Quốc Pagoda (Chùa Trấn Quốc): 🕊️ Dating back to the 6th century, this is Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, gracefully set on a small island connected by a red wooden bridge. It’s especially magical at sunset. Phủ Tây Hồ: 🙏 A spiritual haven dedicated to Princess Liễu Hạnh, one of Vietnam’s Four Immortals. Locals come here to pray for health and prosperity. Quan Thanh Temple: ⚔️ Located near the southern tip of the lake, this Taoist temple is famous for its bronze statue of Tran Vu, the God of the North. Each of these sites offers not only historical depth but also stunning photo opportunities — perfect for travelers seeking both culture and beauty. 📸 🌸 Trúc Bạch Lake – The Smaller, Cozier Sister Separated from West Lake by a 17th-century causeway, Trúc Bạch Lake has a charm all its own. Once a quiet fishing area, it’s now surrounded by quaint cafés and boutique hotels, offering a more intimate and romantic setting. Here, you can enjoy a quiet afternoon sipping egg coffee ☕ while watching fishermen cast their nets, or take a gentle evening walk along the Thanh Niên Causeway, one of the most scenic streets in Hanoi. 🏨 Where to Stay: From Lakeside Luxury to Cozy Hideaways West Lake offers an impressive range of accommodations in 2025 — from elegant lakeside resorts to chic boutique hotels. InterContinental Hanoi Westlake: 🏰 Built on the water itself, featuring stunning overwater villas. Elegant Suites Westlake: Perfect for long stays with full amenities and a peaceful atmosphere. The Hanoi Club Hotel & Residences: Combines lake views with spa facilities and a golf driving range. If you’re seeking a local touch, many boutique homestays now blend Vietnamese design with Western comfort, providing a more personal experience. 🌇 Travel Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✨ Best time to visit:Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather and spectacular sunsets. 🚴 Getting around:Rent a bicycle or electric scooter — the 17km loop around the lake is one of Hanoi’s most scenic rides. 📷 Photo tip:Sunset from Trấn Quốc Pagoda or the West Lake Water Park area is absolutely breathtaking. 🍴 Must-try local dish:Sample Phở Cuốn, a light and refreshing rolled version of pho noodles, famous in this area. 🛶 Bonus experience:Take a sunset cruise or paddleboard session to see the city skyline reflected in the calm water — a truly unforgettable experience. 💬 Final Thoughts West Lake today is much more than a neighborhood — it’s a reflection of Hanoi’s evolving identity, where history, spirituality, and modern life intertwine beautifully. Whether you’re seeking peaceful moments by the pagoda, an energetic café crawl, or just the perfect sunset view, Hồ Tây offers it all. It’s no wonder that locals, expats, and travelers alike keep coming back — for here, in the heart of Hanoi, the past and present flow together as gently as the ripples on the lake itself. 🌅💖