Power yourself over to an excellent exploration of the best of Northern Vietnam, through these three tours that expose you to a thrilling adventure of the dynamic capital city of Hanoi, the awesome natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, and the peaceful landscapes of Ninh Binh. Each spot has something different to offer, from the historical sites, the weekend journeys in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam, taking a boat trip in the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the lush rice paddies and ancient temples of Ninh Binh. Perfect Blend. Let us begin our awesome journey together!
Hoan Kiem Lake
8:00 AM – Start at Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Start with a casual morning walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, considered the soul of Hanoi. The cool breeze and still waters are an excellent way to start the weekend journeys in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam. And why be surprised, there comes the site of the The Huc Bridge, which further would lead to the location of Ngoc Son Temple-a spiritually and historically rich site.
9:00 AM – Cyclo Ride through the Old Quarter
Embark on a traditional cyclo to padded seats for an authentic ride through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. This is a great opportunity to take in the charm of the city as we wind through ancient alleys, French colonial architecture, and vibrant markets. At almost every turn, feel the pulse of bustling Hanoi life: street vendors, cafes, and even boutique shops. This is truly one of the best ways to experience a city tour of Hanoi.
10:30 AM – Visit the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam)
We will then proceed to the Temple of Literature, which is Vietnam’s first university. Founded in 1076 and dedicated to Confucius, it is a serene oasis in which history lies buried in its walls. Stroll through the elegant courtyards and discover the ancient stone stelae that acknowledge scholars from Vietnam of yesteryear. This stop gives a real insight into both the country’s intellectual and architectural beauty.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break: Pho at Pho Thin
Time to enjoy some real traditional Hanoian food! Head to Pho Thin, one of the most famous spots around the city for Vietnam’s national dish: Pho . Have a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup with its rich, flavorful broth that will keep you energized for the whole day.
1:30 PM – Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
After lunch, drive to see one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks: the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This imposing structure displays the body of President Ho Chi Minh in the state. Pay respects and learn about his huge contribution to Vietnam. You will then gain an even deeper understanding of the historical importance of this area while exploring Ha Dinh Square.
2:30 PM – Visit the One Pillar Pagoda
Within walking distance, the One Pillar Pagoda rises from the incense-wreathed lotus pond to evoke the image of purity. The origin of this pagoda dates back to 1049 and still represents one of the most startling religious monuments in Vietnam.
One Pillar Pagoda
3:00 PM – Walk Around the Presidential Palace Grounds
Continue our journey with a visit to the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, and see for yourself how this national hero lived modestly. The pretty gardens and tranquil surroundings are highly contrasting to the grand offering quite another look at the life of the leader.
6:30 PM – Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong
Conclude your day with a culinary experience at one of the restaurants in the city, Cha Ca La Vong. Its name is shared with the signature dish of this restaurant: Cha Ca, an exquisite specialty from Hanoian cuisine consisting of pan-frying fish with turmeric and dill with vermicelli noodles, roasted peanuts, and fresh herbs. The dinner will be an anniversary of your cultural day in the city.
8:00 AM – Start Your Day with Egg Coffee at Giang Cafe
Begin your day a little differently with something uniquely Hanoian: egg coffee at Giang Café. Made with whisked egg yolk and coffee, creamy and rich, this is a must-try for any visitor to the city. Have it while soaking in the local café culture.
9:00 AM – Explore Hanoi Old Quarter on Foot
Now, let’s get back to the Old Quarter time, on foot! This walking tour will take us across the famous 36 streets named for specific crafts or trades. From Hang Gai, known as Silk Street, to the Dong Xuan Market, see local artisans and boutiques, street food vendors bustling with life-and-take-home traditional souvenirs, or first-hand experience of daily life in Hanoi.
12:00 PM – Lunch at bu cha Huong Lien
bu cha Huong Lien
Relax at bu cha Huong Lien, popularly known due to its status as the restaurant where President Obama and Anthony Bourdain dined together. Sample bu cha, a meal of grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce.
1:30 PM – Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The afternoon is dedicated to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology very interesting place where one can learn about the 54 ethnic groups in the rich cultural mosaic of Vietnam. The museum offers indoor and outdoor presentations-from the houses the various ethnic groups reside in mini-exhibitions showing how they earn their living, what clothes they wear, etc.
3:30 PM – Stroll Around West Lake (Ho Tay)
Afterward, head to West Lake also known as Ho Tay, which is the largest lake in Hanoi, and take a walk around the lake or rent a bicycle and cycle along its shores. You can then visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple of Hanoi, perfectly situated on a small island. The atmosphere is tranquil with great views quite opposite to busy Old Quarter streets.
6:00 PM – Dinner and Drinks at The Summit Lounge
End your weekend in style at The Summit Lounge, the rooftop bar of the Pan Pacific Hotel, with stunning views over West Lake and the Red River. This is the perfect spot to reflect on your weekend journey in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam as the city lights come alive beneath you. Enjoy a cocktail and light dinner at this great closing highlight on any of our Hanoi Tours.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
7:30 AM – Departure from Hanoi
Early in the morning, your exciting weekend journey in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam starts! A drive of about 2.5-3 hours from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay passes by beautiful countryside, rice fields, and small towns that give you a glimpse of rural Northern Vietnam.
11:00 AM – Arrival at Ha Long Bay and Begin Your Cruise
Ha Long Bay
Once you arrive, board on a traditional wooden boat or a luxury cruise ship to start your adventure on Ha Long Bay. Enjoy a welcome drink as the crew introduces the day’s schedule and then the boat will start its cruise into the bay. It will glide through the limestone karsts and islands. This is supposed to be a time of relaxation, observing the beauty of the surroundings.
12:30 PM – Lunch on Board
Lunch is taken on board while still cruising in the bay, with a delicious seafood lunch served. Savor the newly caught fish, prawns, and local specialties, and enjoy further sightseeing amidst emerald waters and striking rock formations.
1:30 PM – Visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)
Following lunch, Sung Sot Cave-the largest and one of the most amazing caves in Ha Long Bay- will be the first stop. Walk into the huge chambers with extraordinary stalactites and stalagmites. The well-lit visibility inside the cave discloses the unbelievable natural creations. Though the climb up to the entrance of the cave may be steep, it will turn out to be rewarding with a fascinating glimpse of the bay from atop.
3:00 PM – Kayaking Adventure
Now it is time to get personal with the bay! Take a kayak and paddle through the calm waters, coming across hidden lagoons, small caves, and quiet corners of Ha Long Bay. You will be much closer to nature since you glide along and pass beside the tall limestone cliffs and areas big boats cannot venture into.
5:00 PM – Ti Top Island and Hiking
Next is the most panoramic of all, Ti Top Island of Ha Long Bay. Follow through for a short hike to the top of the island for an unforgettable 360-degree view of the bay. Remember to take your camera, as this is one of the most very scenic spots in Ha Long! Take an opportunity later to relax on the island’s beach, swim, or just bask in the serene ambiance.
6:30 PM – Sunset Cruise and Dinner
Later in the afternoon, return to your cruise vessel and enjoy a sunset over Ha Long Bay. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness the sun set behind limestone formations in a blaze of gold across the water. Enjoy a gourmet dinner onboard with fresh seafood, local dishes, and international cuisine.
8:00 PM – Evening Activities on the Boat
Free time to relax on the boat after dinner. Depending on the cruise, there is a different evening entertainment that involves squid fishing, movie watching, or just enjoying a drink under the stars. To the relaxational ones, serenity at anchoring for the night is what this bay avails.
Go on a cruise
6:30 AM – Sunrise and Tai Chi on Deck
Onboard, start your day early with a Tai Chi session on the deck as the morning sun rises amidst the breathtaking Ha Long Bay. Setting your rigid body off and refreshing yourself in the serene surroundings, this ancient practice starts the day perfectly. Even though you are a complete beginner or think you will look stupid trying Tai Chi, it is a very calming and meditative experience that will heighten your appreciation for the bay’s beauty.
7:30 AM – Breakfast on Board
Enjoy light breakfasts of coffee and tea as the boat sails further into newer areas of the bay. Enjoy fresh morning air while taking in the quiet stillness of the bay until it fills with travelers.
8:30 AM – Visit a Floating Fishing Village
This morning, we took a trip to visit one of the floating fishing villages at Ha Long Bay. These villages are interestingly found to provide an insight into life that has so far been led on the water for many generations. Explore the village using a small bamboo boat with a rowing guide from the locals, and see how people farm seafood, live on houses floating in the water, and maintain a living. You can even try some fresh seafood right from the water!
10:00 AM – Explore Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave)
From here, you make your way to the stunningly brilliant Thien Cung Cave, renowned for its stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is filled with colorful lights, adding an extra component of magic to the atmosphere. Winding through chambers, one easily sees why it is described as the “Heavenly Palace." It forms one of Ha Long Bay’s biggest attractions, and the reason why becomes apparent when one reaches here.
11:30 AM – Return to the Boat and Lunch
Then, return to your cruise ship to enjoy the last lunch on board, which will be very laid-back while the boat cruises its way back to the harbor, passing some of the most iconic rock formations in the bay.
12:30 PM – Disembark and Head Back to Hanoi
With the memories of the last 24 hours on Ha Long Bay forever engraved in your mind, it’s time to now disembark and head onward to Hanoi. Your transport shall be waiting to drive you back on the return journey. Sit back and just enjoy the scenic drive.
4:00 PM – Arrival in Hanoi
By late afternoon, you will arrive in Hanoi in time for relaxation or a final night out on the town. Here, your weekend journey in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam comes to an end, while the memories of Ha Long Bay’s natural beauty and unique experiences remain with you forever.
7:30 AM – Depart from Hanoi
Early in the morning, set off for an exciting weekend journey in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam, on a very beautiful ½-hour drive to Ninh Binh. The journey leads through peaceful countryside filled with rice fields and small villages-a perfect escape from bustling streets.
9:00 AM – Arrive at Trang An for a Scenic Boat Ride
The first attraction to visit is Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board a traditional sampan boat and visualize cruising into the serenity surrounded by imposing cliffs of limestone. The special boat will navigate through various caves to let you admire the natural wonders at Ninh Binh. You will head down the river, passing the ancient temples nestled into the mountainside; there are also serene groves of greenery to pass, which give endless Pho to opportunities.
11:00 AM – Explore Tam Coc
Next, head to Tam Coc, which is also known as the “Ha Long Bay on Land." You’ll be taken on another boat ride here through three natural caves known as Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Surrounded by heavy rice paddies. The serenity of the journey makes it an unforgettable experience in any Hanoi tour. If you are traveling in the harvest season, the rice fields will shine in brilliant shades of gold and green.
12:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Following the morning adventures, it is time to recharge for lunch at the local restaurant. You will sample some specialties of Ninh Binh, starting with rice crackers and goat meat-dê núi Ninh Bình-and then the famous com chay crispy rice. Local flavors abound in these dishes, treating your taste buds to a hint of their culinary heritage.
2:00 PM – Hike Mua Caves for Panoramic Views
Ready for some exercise? The Mua Caves have the foot of a mountain with a rather steep but rewarding climb. You’ll find nearly 500 stone steps leading to the top of Mua Mountain for some of the best views in Northern Vietnam. Take a panoramic view of Tam Coc Valley from its summit: the curving river, and the lush rice paddies framed by dramatic limestone cliffs. This is a Pho tography prime spot, so don’t miss capturing the breathtaking scenery!
4:00 PM – Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda
After the hike, we’ll head to Bai Dinh Pagoda, which is one of the biggest and most important Buddhist complexes in Southeast Asia. The pagoda is impressively great, with huge bronze Buddha statues, hundreds of Arhat statues along the paths, and the serene atmosphere that covers the whole complex. Climb to the top of the pagoda for a nice view of the countryside.
6:30 PM – Check-In at Your Accommodation
In the evening, retire to your overnight accommodation. From an eco-lodge to a boutique hotel, to even riverside homestays, all options are available in Ninh Binh. Take your time to rest and freshen up, getting ready for dinner.
7:30 PM – Dinner at the Hotel or Local Restaurant
Enjoy the easy evening meal, trying some more of the local fare. You could dine in your hotel or take a short walk to some restaurants near your hotel where you can try traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Later in the evening, retreat to your room for a refreshing sleep ahead of the following day’s adventure.
7:00 AM – Breakfast and Start Your Day
Start your second day with a heavy breakfast at your host. In the morning, you can taste the meals of the fresh morning air of the countryside of Ninh Binh.
8:00 AM – Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
We go to Hoa Lu in the morning-the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries under the ‘Dinh and Le dynasties’. The place is a beautiful valley covered by mountains. Temples and ruins speak volumes about the early kings of Vietnam and have an interesting history. Its calm atmosphere together with its historical importance makes Hoa Lu a not-to-bypass destination for any weekend tour in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam.
10:00 AM – Cycling Tour Through the Countryside
Now, it’s something a bit more active! Rent a bicycle and, at your own pace, explore the charming countryside of Ninh Binh. Pedal along quiet roads lined with rice paddies and pass water buffalo grazing in the field, pass through small villages where you’ll get a glimpse of traditional Vietnamese rural life. One of the best ways to experience the natural splendor of this region involves biking. It’s very slow and gentle exposure to the landscape.
12:00 PM – Lunch at a Countryside Restaurant
We lunch at a countryside restaurant-this will be a fresh, farm-to-table sort of meal. Take a few minutes to kick back and relax with your other travelers, enjoying the serenity surrounding you before continuing back to Hanoi.
1:30 PM – Final Visit to Bich Dong Pagoda
On the way out from Ninh Binh, we would stop to visit the Bich Dong Pagoda, which was beautifully located on the side of a mountain temple complex. We will hike up by stone steps that lead to the three levels of the pagoda and see the beautiful landscape that surrounds it. The serenity of the pagoda combined with its unique location makes it a good final stop before we head back into the city.
3:00 PM – Depart for Hanoi
After two unforgettable days spent in Ninh Binh, we started driving back to Hanoi. Reflect on the beauty, culture, and tranquility of Ninh Binh while en route back to town.
4:30 PM – Arrival in Hanoi
You will arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon, fresh and full of inspiration after your weekend journeys in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam. You can either head back to your hotel or continue with other trips, but surely the memories of serene landscapes and rich history of Ninh Binh will remain long after the tour.
These weekend journeys in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam have condensed the ultimate regional beauty and culture. From Hanoi’s bustling streets to the cliffs of limestone that emerge out of the water at Ha Long Bay, down to the landscapes of Ninh Binh, every spot had something peculiar. Be it through cruising, exploring temples, or savoring local delicacies, these Hanoi Tours were truly unforgettable. We do hope that the memories of the trip stay with you and look forward to your return to other journeys across Vietnam. Travel safely! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ha Noi and to book Ha Noi Tours at the best prices.
Day 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Day 2: HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Day 3: HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Day 4: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Day 5: HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day Inclusions: Transfer, breakfast, lunch, tour guide, rowing boat, entrance fee, bicycles, hotel in Hanoi.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
What’s included in this trip :
4 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise | Deluxe with windows |
5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Peridot Hotel/Apricot | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Elegance/Au Co | Deluxe with windows |
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
