Northern Vietnam Tour – Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh

Upon arrival, depending on your flight arrival time, our car will pick you up to transfer to the hotel for check in (Time for check in: 14.00. Early check-in is NOT included and subject to hotel’s availability). 

OPTIONAL:  Half Day City Tour is available at your request

You will start exploring the city's charming Hanoi:

• Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Situated in the heart of Hanoi, the relic has its outstanding Universal Values which reflect its historical longevity, its continuous role as a seat of power, and its multiple cultural layers. In 2010, with the celebration of Hanoi's millennial anniversary, the Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long was listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. 
• Continue to drive to Hoan Kiem Lake to visit Ngoc Son Temple where General Tran Hung Dao – The most talented general of Vietnam in the ancient time.
• The Old Quarter to experience the exciting local daily life of Hanoians, enjoy some of the 36 shaded streets of this historic district. Admire the products made and sold on each street, such as sugar, bamboo, leather or silver. 
• A short visit to the famous Hanoi Train Street, where you can sip a local coffee and feel the thrill as the train passes just a few feet away — a truly unique Hanoi experience.

08:45 – 09:15 | Our bus and tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and depart for Tuan Chau Island, Halong City via the new expressway. Enjoy a short rest stop along the way.

12:30 | Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor, receive a warm welcome aboard, and attend a short safety briefing. Begin your 5-hour journey through the stunning seascape of Halong Bay, following the route of the 2-day cruise. Admire fascinating limestone formations such as Cock Fighting Islet and Thumb Islet, while enjoying a delicious Vietnamese lunch on board.

13:45 | Visit Bo Hon Archipelago and explore the impressive Surprising Cave (Sung Sot Cave), filled with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. Continue to Luon Cave for kayaking or a bamboo boat ride through its tranquil lagoon. Then head to Titov Island, where you can relax on the sandy beach or hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the bay.

16:30 | Return to the cruise for Afternoon Tea as you leisurely sail back toward Tuan Chau Harbor. Relax on the sundeck, enjoy music, and soak in the world-famous natural scenery.

18:00 | Disembark and take the expressway back to Hanoi.

20:30 | Drop off at your hotel. End of the tour.

Distance: ~120km - 2 -> 2.5 hours | Duration: Full day

07:30–08:30 | Pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. Depart to Ninh Binh (~120km, ~2.5 hours).

09:30 | Short 20-minute break en route.

10:30 | Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – the first capital of Vietnam. Visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le, built in the 17th century. Learn why the capital was moved to Hanoi and admire the ancient architecture amidst scenic surroundings.

11:45 | Enjoy a buffet lunch with local specialties such as goat meat, fried rice, and vegetarian options.

13:00 | Take a peaceful 1.5-hour sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc. Marvel at the dramatic limestone karsts, lush rice fields, and a series of natural caves – often called “Halong Bay on Land.”

14:30 | Continue with a 45-minute cycling tour through the countryside and local villages – a great way to experience authentic rural life.

15:30–16:00 | Return to the bus and head back to Hanoi.

18:30 | Drop-off at your hotel. End of tour.

Please note: This is a group tour with a fixed schedule. If you prefer more flexibility, a private tour option is available, allowing for a later pick-up and earlier return upon request.

Depending on your flight schedule, you'll have some time in the morning for any last-minute sightseeing or shopping before transferring to the airport for your departure.