North Vietnam itinerary - 5 unique ideas

If you're seeking an unforgettable journey through the heart of Southeast Asia, look no further than a northern Vietnam itinerary. This captivating region, steeped in history and natural beauty, offers travelers a plethora of unique experiences. In this article, we will delve into five distinctive and off the beaten path North Vietnam itineraries that will take you through the hidden gems of this region.

How to plan a North Vietnam Itinerary?

Hanoi is the most common starting point for exploring North Vietnam. You can fly into Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider whether you want to loop back to Hanoi or exit from a different city like Hai Phong or Halong Bay.

Decide how many days you have available for your North Vietnam adventure. A typical North Vietnam itinerary could range from 7 to 14 days, depending on your interests and the places you want to visit.

Consider having a local expert take care of the planning and booking for you. Our tailor-made trip service offers you fantastic customizable trips to North Vietnam. 

Best places to visit in North Vietnam

Northern Vietnam boasts a plethora of destinations that cater to diverse interests and preferences. Here are the must-visit places that should be on your northern Vietnam itinerary:

Hanoi

Your northern Vietnam itinerary is likely to begin in the capital city of Hanoi. This vibrant metropolis is a blend of old-world charm and modernity. Start your exploration with a visit to the historic Old Quarter, where narrow streets are lined with traditional shops and bustling markets. Don't miss the chance to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine at street food stalls or dine in elegant French colonial-era restaurants

Ha Long Bay

No northern Vietnam itinerary is complete without a visit to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning karst formations and emerald waters. Spend a night on a traditional junk boat, cruising past towering limestone islands and enjoying fresh seafood. 

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on Land," is a hidden gem just a few hours south of Hanoi and a must-visit in any northern Vietnam itinerary. The dramatic limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and serene rivers create a picturesque landscape. Take a boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes or Tam Coc, where you'll pass through ancient caves and witness breathtaking scenery. 

Sapa

Nestled in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains, Sapa is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. The region is home to various ethnic minority communities, including the Hmong and Dao people. While here, embark on hikes through terraced rice fields.

Ha Giang

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, Ha Giang in Northern Vietnam is an excellent choice. This remote region boasts breathtaking landscapes, with winding roads through towering mountains and deep valleys. Take a motorcycle or car tour along the Ma Pi Leng Pass, often dubbed the "Himalayas of Vietnam," to witness dramatic cliffs and the Nho Que River below.

Cao Bang

Cao Bang is another hidden gem in Vietnam, known for its lush forests, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls. Ban Gioc Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Vietnam, is a highlight of the region.

Cat Ba Island

Add to your northern Vietnam itinerary with a visit to Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Halong Bay. Relax on beautiful sandy beaches, go kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, and hike through Cat Ba National Park to discover its diverse flora and fauna.

Have the time to explore Vietnam in depth? Explore our Vietnam 3-week itineraries for inspiration.

Itinerary #1: 7 days in North Vietnam — a food adventure

Embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Vietnam with this 7-day food-focused trip that will tantalize your taste buds and immerse you in the rich flavors of North Vietnamese cuisine.

Itinerary overview

Begin your trip with famous street foods in Hanoi, including pho, banh mi, and egg coffee. 

Explore bustling markets and savor local delights like bun cha and nem ran. Feast on seafood amidst Halong Bay's stunning karsts and enjoy fresh catches on Cat Ba Island.

 In Sapa, relish hearty mountain meals and a home-cooked village feast with breathtaking views. Conclude your food adventure with a farewell dinner featuring authentic northern Vietnamese cuisine back in Hanoi.

Ready to take this trip? Our tailor-made trip service makes going on your dream trip easy by taking care of the planning and booking.

Check out this North Vietnam itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel.
• Explore the Old Quarter and try famous street foods like pho, banh mi, and egg coffee.

Day 2

• Join a guided food tour through Hanoi's bustling markets and street food stalls.
• Savor dishes like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) and nem ran (spring rolls).

Day 3

• Travel to Halong Bay and board a traditional junk boat.
• Enjoy a seafood feast on the cruise while admiring the stunning limestone karsts.

Day 4

• Explore Cat Ba Island and its fresh seafood restaurants.
• Try local specialties like grilled squid and crab soup.

Day 5

• Return to Hanoi and catch an overnight train to Sapa.
• Arrive in Sapa, check into your hotel, and enjoy a hearty mountain meal.

Day 6

• Embark on a trek through Sapa's terraced rice fields.
• Enjoy a home-cooked meal in a local village with breathtaking views.

Day 7

• Return to Hanoi from Sapa.
• Savor a farewell dinner at a renowned restaurant with authentic northern Vietnamese cuisine.

Itinerary #2: 10 days of adventure in North Vietnam 

This northern Vietnam itinerary is a thrilling 10-day journey through the rugged beauty of North Vietnam, where you'll explore stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in local cultures, and embrace adrenaline-pumping adventures along the way.

Itinerary overview

Embark on a 10-day North Vietnam itinerary, starting in the bustling streets of Hanoi and exploring historical sites while savoring local street food.

Then, paddle through the enchanting waters of Halong Bay, camp on remote islands, scale the cliffs of Cat Ba, and uncover the natural wonders of Ninh Binh and Pu Luong Nature Reserve, immersing yourself in diverse landscapes and cultures. 

Conclude your journey in Mai Chau Valley with traditional dances and must-try dishes.

Check out this North Vietnam itinerary:

Day 1: 

• Arrive in Hanoi and settle into your accommodation.
• Explore the city's vibrant streets and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal.

Day 2: 

• Visit historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature.
• Try street food like bun bo Nam Bo (beef noodle salad).

Day 3: 

• Head to Halong Bay for kayaking and swimming.
• Camp on a remote island for a unique adventure experience.

Day 4: 

• Continue your exploration of Cat Ba Island.
• Go rock climbing or hiking in Cat Ba National Park.

Day 5:

• Travel to Ninh Binh and explore the Trang An Grottoes by boat.
• Hike to Hang Mua for panoramic views of the karst landscape.

Day 6: 

• Journey to Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
• Trek through lush forests and stay in a traditional homestay.

Day 7: 

• Continue exploring Pu Luong with activities like bamboo rafting.
• Experience local culture and cuisine with your host family.

Day 8: 

• Travel to Mai Chau Valley and hike to ethnic minority villages.
• Enjoy a traditional Thai dance performance in the evening.

Day 9: 

• Return to Hanoi from Mai Chau.
• Spend your last evening in Hanoi trying adventurous dishes like grilled snakehead fish.

Day 10: 

• Depart from Hanoi.

Eliminate the hassle of organizing and choose to book your adventure with us now.

Looking for more ideas for a 10-day Vietnam trip? Find inspiration in our 10-day Vietnam itineraries.

Itinerary #3: A romantic 2 weeks in North Vietnam

Spend an enchanting two weeks exploring the picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and romantic hideaways of North Vietnam, as you embark on a journey tailor-made for love and adventure.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary is a 14-day journey through North Vietnam that combines adventure with relaxation. From the intimate dinners on rooftop restaurants in Hanoi to the private beach picnics on Cat Ba Island and the leisurely strolls through the terraced rice fields of Sapa, this trip ensures a memorable romantic getaway. Conclude your adventure with couples' spa treatments and a serene lakeside walk in Hanoi.

Check out this North Vietnam itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrive in Hanoi and check into a luxurious hotel.
• Enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

Day 2

• Visit Hanoi's romantic spots like Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake.
• Take a traditional cyclo ride around the Old Quarter.

Day 3

• Travel to Halong Bay and embark on a luxurious cruise.
• Enjoy a private dinner on the deck with a view of the sunset.

Day 4

• Spend the day on the cruise, kayaking and relaxing on the pristine beaches.
• Dine on fresh seafood under the starlit sky.

Day 5

• Continue your cruise to Cat Ba Island.
• Explore the island's secluded beaches and caves.

Day 6

• Have a private beach picnic on Cat Ba Island.
• Enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.

Day 7

• Travel to Sapa and check into a charming boutique hotel.
• Take a leisurely stroll through Sapa town.

Day 8

• Embark on a private trek to the terraced rice fields.
• Share a romantic picnic lunch with breathtaking views.

Day 9

• Explore Sapa's ethnic markets and shop for handmade crafts.
• Dine at a cozy mountain-view restaurant.

Day 10

• Travel to Mai Chau Valley and check into a secluded eco-lodge.
• Enjoy a candlelit dinner by a bonfire.

Day 11

• Take a bike ride through Mai Chau's serene countryside.
• Visit ethnic minority villages and interact with locals.

Day 12

• Return to Hanoi and stay in a luxurious suite.
• Have a romantic dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 13

• Spend the day at a spa for couples' treatments.
• Take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake in the evening.

Day 14

• Depart from Hanoi with cherished memories of your romantic honeymoon.

Looking for more ideas for your 2-week trip to Vietnam? Explore our wide range of 14-day itineraries in Vietnam.

Itinerary #4: Vietnam Culinary Discovery

Looking for a more thorough food tour of Vietnam? This 10 day culinary tour will take you on a sensory journey through the country's diverse culinary landscape, exploring the distinct flavors of the North, Center, and South regions.

Itinerary overview

From your first night's feast at a typical Vietnamese restaurant in Hanoi, you'll dive deep into Vietnamese cuisine secrets, prepare traditional dishes, and embark on a culinary adventure through Hanoi's bustling streets. 

As you cruise through Halong Bay, savor fresh seafood delights on board, and in Hue, explore ancient villages and indulge in an exclusive dinner featuring regional specialties.

Although it's not in North Vietnam, continue your culinary exploration in Hoi An with a cooking class, a market visit, and a river cruise to a cooking school. In Ho Chi Minh City, savor local pho, dine at authentic Vietnamese restaurants, and even visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels.

Check out this North Vietnam itinerary:

Day 1

• Meet at Hanoi/Noi Bai International Airport
• Transfer to hotel for check-in
• Dinner at a typical Vietnamese restaurant

Day 2

• Learn Vietnamese cuisine secrets
• Prepare a typical Vietnamese menu
• City tour in Hanoi, including Fine Arts Museum and more
• Evening Water Puppets Show

Day 3

• Drive to Halong Bay
• Embark on a traditional junk for a cruise
• Explore Thien Cung and Dau Go grottoes
• Lunch and dinner on board
• Overnight on the junk

Day 4

• Morning cruise to beautiful islands and caves
• Brunch on board
• Return to Halong city and transfer to Hanoi airport
• Flight to Hue

Day 5

• Explore ancient villages around Hue
• Visit Thuy Bieu village and its cultural heritage
• Explore Tiger Arena, temple-cemetery, and bronze-casting village
• Cruise on the Huong River, cycling, and local experiences
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda and Imperial City
• Exclusive dinner at Tha Om Garden House or Hue Foodie Tour

Day 6

• Visit Khai Dinh Mausoleum
• Drive to Hoi An with stops at Lang Co Beach and Hai Van Pass
• Visit Cham Museum, Non-Nuoc beach, and Marble Mountain

Day 7

• Morning cooking class at Red Bridge School
• Visit Hoi An's colorful market
• Cruise along Hoi An River to the cooking school
• Learn about Vietnamese dishes and food carving
• Afternoon walking tour of Hoi An's historic town

Day 8

• Visit China Town, Binh Tay Market, and Thien Hau Temple
• Lunch at a "Pho" house
• City tour including Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum
• Dinner at an authentic Vietnamese cuisine restaurant

Day 9

• Visit Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground complex used during the American war
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City
• Explore Chinatown and Thien Hau temple
• Sightseeing with photo stops at the former Presidential Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral

Day 10

• Ho Chi Minh City Departure

Ditch the headache of making arrangements and reserve your getaway with us today.

Itinerary #5: Ancient Meets Modern

This comprehensive 12-day Vietnam journey is designed for those eager to explore the entirety of the country, not just the North. See for yourself the historical allure of Hanoi to the imperial beauty of Hue, the coastal charms of Hoi An with its atmospheric ruins, and the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City.

Itinerary overview

This trip will take you from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. It features a mix of city exploration, cultural tours, and leisure days. Highlights include a photography tour in Hanoi, a Halong Bay cruise, electric scooter and fishing village experiences in Hoi An, a Hue city tour, a Saigon Vespa tour, and a Mekong Delta adventure, offering a diverse range of experiences for your trip to Vietnam.

Check out this North Vietnam itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrival day in Hanoi
• Free time for exploration

Day 2

• Full Day Hanoi Photography Tour
• Explore Old Quarter with photographer
• Visit Ngoc Son Temple, St. Joseph Cathedral, Hang Quat Street
• See Long Bien Bridge
• Lunch at selected restaurant
• Visit Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, One-pillar pagoda, Temple of Literature

Day 3

• Departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• Halong Bay cruise
• Visit Thien Cung grotto
• Enjoy fresh seafood
• Return to Hanoi

Day 4

• Day at leisure

Day 5

• Hoi An Electric Scooter Tour
• Visit Cam Nam Island, craft pottery village, An Bang Beach

Day 6

• Visit a local fishing village
• Experience traditional fishing techniques
• Explore coconut-palm flanked waterways

Day 7

• Day at leisure

Day 8

• Full Day Hue City Tour
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue Citadel, Tu Duc and Khai Dinh Royal Tombs

Day 9

• Day at leisure

Day 10

• Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City
• Saigon "Vietnamese Style" Vespa tour
• Explore local markets and landmarks on a Vespa

Day 11

• Mekong Delta Tour with Mango Cruise
• Visit Ben Tre province in Mekong Delta
• Explore local workshops, rice noodles factory, and more
• Boat ride to Ben Tre City and transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 12

• Departure day

Don't have a lot of time at your disposal? Our 5-day Vietnam itineraries will come to your rescue.

Let us plan your North Vietnam itinerary for you

Allow our team of local experts to curate your dream northern Vietnam itinerary. When you're ready to embark on your adventure, reach out to us, and we'll create a personalized itinerary just for you. You can modify it to your heart's content until it satisfies every aspect of your booking. Feel free to browse our pre-designed Vietnam itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Is your trip to Vietnam just around the corner? Be prepared by reading our tips for traveling in Vietnam and the expertise of our in-house editor.