INTRODUCE:
Northern Vietnam Highlights – 3 Days: Hanoi, Halong Bay & Ninh Binh
Discover the very best of Northern Vietnam on this well-crafted 3-day journey, designed to showcase the region’s most iconic destinations, natural beauty, and cultural highlights in a short yet enriching timeframe. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the spectacular limestone seascapes of Ha Long Bay and the serene countryside of Ninh Binh, this itinerary delivers an unforgettable snapshot of northern Vietnam.
Begin your journey in Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and lively street life create a unique cultural atmosphere. Continue with a scenic cruise through the emerald waters of UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, surrounded by thousands of limestone islands and dramatic karst formations. The adventure concludes in Ninh Binh, known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” featuring peaceful rivers, rice paddies, and stunning limestone caves explored by traditional sampan boat.
This 3-day itinerary is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience the essential highlights of Northern Vietnam, combining culture, nature, and relaxation in a smooth and well-paced journey.
Tour Highlights
• Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, historic landmarks, and vibrant street life
• Cruise through UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay with stunning limestone islands
• Visit Sung Sot (Surprising) Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay
• Enjoy scenic boat trips through rivers and karst landscapes in Ninh Binh
• Discover Trang An or Tam Coc, known as “Ha Long Bay on land”
• Experience a perfect balance of culture, nature, and relaxation
• Travel comfortably with air-conditioned transportation and professional local guides
• Ideal for short stays, first-time visitors, couples, families, and small groups
ITINERARY:
DAY 1: HANOI CITY TOUR – CULTURAL DISCOVERY
Upon arrival in Hanoi, meet your local guide and begin exploring Vietnam’s historic capital.
Morning sightseeing:
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Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside view) & Ba Dinh Square
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One Pillar Pagoda – a unique symbol of Hanoi
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Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university
Lunch:
Lunch at a local restaurant (own expense).
Afternoon activities:
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Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
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Walk through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter
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Experience Hanoi’s famous street food culture
Optional evening activity:
Overnight: Hanoi
DAY 2: HANOI – HA LONG BAY CRUISE (LUNCH INCLUDED)
08:00 – 08:30 – Pick-up from hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter and depart for Ha Long Bay
(Approx. 2.5–3 hours via expressway).
11:30 – Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor, check in, and enjoy a welcome drink.
12:30 – Board the cruise and enjoy a delicious lunch while sailing through the emerald waters and limestone karsts of UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay.
Afternoon activities:
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Visit Sung Sot (Surprising) Cave, the largest cave in Ha Long Bay
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Kayaking or bamboo boat ride through scenic lagoons
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Swimming or relaxing on the sundeck
16:30 – Enjoy sunset time on board while cruising back to the harbor.
17:30 – Transfer back to Hanoi.
Overnight: Hanoi
DAY 3: HANOI – NINH BINH (TRANG AN / TAM COC) – DEPARTURE
07:30 – Pick-up from hotel and transfer to Ninh Binh Province
(Approx. 2 hours).
Morning highlights:
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Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the first capital of Vietnam
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Explore Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
or Tam Coc, depending on itinerary
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Enjoy a peaceful boat trip through rivers, caves, and limestone formations
12:30 – Lunch at a local restaurant featuring Vietnamese specialties.
Afternoon activities:
16:30 – Return to Hanoi.
Transfer to Noi Bai International Airport or drop-off at hotel.
End of Northern Vietnam Highlights – 3 Days Tour
TOUR INCLUDED:
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Private airport pick-up & drop-off
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All ground transfers with air-conditioned vehicles
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Ha Long Bay 1-day cruise with lunch
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Boat trips as per itinerary
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English-speaking professional tour guides
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All entrance fees at sightseeing points as mentioned
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Daily bottled water during tours
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Meals as specified in the itinerary
TOUR EXCLUDED:
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Drinks during meals
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Accommodation
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Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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International & domestic flight tickets
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Vietnam visa & visa stamping fees
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Tips for guides, drivers, hotel staff, boat rowers, and restaurant staff
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Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, additional drinks, shopping, etc.
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Meals not specified in the itinerarySurcharges during peak seasons, Tet (Lunar New Year), and compulsory gala dinners at some hotels or resorts on Christmas & New Year’s Eve
THING TO BRING:
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Wear light, comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Bring sunscreen and a hat.
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Vietnam has a warm tropical climate year-round.
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Currency: Vietnam Dong (VND) – cash recommended for small purchases.
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Passport must be valid for at least 6 months; visa required depending on nationality.
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Travel insurance is highly recommended.
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Tipping is optional but appreciated.
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Free Wi-Fi available at hotels and most tourist areas.