North Vietnam Itinerary – The Ultimate Travel Plan for First-Time Visitors
Looking for the best North Vietnam itinerary? Whether you have 5, 7, 10 or 14 days, this complete guide helps you explore the region’s most iconic destinations — from Hanoi’s culture and street food to Ninh Binh’s limestone karsts, Sapa’s terraced mountains, and Ha Giang’s scenic motorbike loop.
Discover when to visit, where to go, and how to plan your route for a smooth and unforgettable journey through Northern Vietnam.
🧭 Ideal for: First-time visitors seeking a mix of adventure, culture & nature.
✅ Best for: Nature lovers, culture seekers, photographers.
👉 Explore More: North Vietnam cities: Discover the hidden gems of the Northern Vietnam!
Quick Overview – North Vietnam at a Glance
Before diving into your full Northern Vietnam itinerary, here’s a quick snapshot to help you plan — how long to stay, what to see, and the best time to visit each region on the North Vietnam travel map.
🕐 5 Days – Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay
- A snapshot of North Vietnam’s greatest hits — buzzing streets, emerald rivers, and limestone bays.
✅ Perfect for first-time visitors & short getaways.
🗓️ Best time: Mar–May / Sept–Nov
📍 Don’t miss: Tam Coc boat ride at golden rice season.
🌾 7 Days – Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay
- From misty mountains to glowing rice fields — this 7-day Northern Vietnam route blends culture, nature, and serenity.
✅ Ideal for slow travelers & photographers.
🗓️ Best time: Apr–Jun
🚐 Tip: Try a homestay in Sapa for a real local touch.
🏔️ 10 Days – Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang & Ha Long Bay
- Adventure meets authenticity. Ride the Ha Giang Loop, trek Sapa, and end with a Ha Long cruise.
✅ Made for explorers & adventure seekers.
🗓️ Best time: May–Oct
📍 Highlight: The mountain passes of Ha Giang.
🌄 14 Days – The Full Northern Loop
- The ultimate North Vietnam travel map — a journey from mountains to sea: Sapa, Ha Giang, Ba Be, Ninh Binh & Ha Long.
✅ Ideal for those who want it all.
🗓️ Best time: Sept–Oct
💡 Pro Tip: Combine local homestays with boutique stays for balance.
✨ Quick Takeaway: No matter how long you stay, Northern Vietnam rewards slow travel — golden rice terraces, limestone peaks, and stories that unfold at river pace.
Suggested North Vietnam Itinerary: Plan Your Trip Easily
Discover the best way to explore Northern Vietnam — from misty mountains in Sapa to the emerald waters of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh’s limestone caves. Below are carefully crafted itineraries for 5, 7, 10, and 14 days, designed by local experts to suit every pace of travel.
5-Day North Vietnam Itinerary — Short but Spectacular Escape
Perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to capture the soul of Northern Vietnam — where ancient streets meet rice fields, and limestone peaks rise from emerald waters.
🗓️ Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Explore the Old Quarter
- Arrive in Hanoi and dive straight into its charm — wander Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the maze-like Hanoi Old Quarter. Savor pho, bun cha, and the iconic egg coffee.
- Evening options: water puppet show or a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
🕒 Transfer: Airport → hotel (45 mins).
📍Explore: Hanoi City Tour Full Day – Explore Highlights of Hanoi as a Local
🌾 Day 2: Hanoi → Ninh Binh (Trang An & Mua Cave)
- Morning transfer (2 hrs).
- Take a sampan boat through Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, gliding under limestone caves and ancient temples.
- Climb Mua Cave for the most iconic panorama of Ninh Binh.
- Overnight in Tam Coc or Trang An area.
Optional: As an alternative to Trang An, you can take a bamboo boat trip in Tam Coc, explore the caves, and admire the rice fields winding along the river, which look like silk strips.
📍Book Trang An & Mua Cave Day Tour
🌊 Day 3: Ninh Binh → Ha Long Bay
- Drive ~5 hours to Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone karsts rise from tranquil waters.
- Board an overnight cruise: kayak, swim, and visit Sung Sot Cave before enjoying dinner under the stars.
⛅ Day 4: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
- Morning Tai Chi on deck, brunch, and disembarkation.
- Return to Hanoi by afternoon (~4 hrs).
- Free evening for last-minute shopping or nightlife in the Hanoi Old Quarter.
🏮 Day 5: Hanoi Departure
- Depending on your flight, visit the Temple of Literature or sip coffee by the Train Street Café — a final glimpse of authentic Hanoi life.
💬 Want a personalized itinerary or private tour quote? Message us directly on WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535 — our local experts can tailor your North Vietnam journey perfectly for you.
7-Day North Vietnam Itinerary — Mountains, Rivers & Culture
This 7-day itinerary captures the very best of Northern Vietnam — from ancient temples and tranquil rice fields to misty mountain trails and limestone bays. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of culture, nature, and soft adventure.
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi – The City of a Thousand Years
- Step into Hanoi’s vibrant rhythm. Wander the Old Quarter, sip egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake, and explore the French Quarter Hanoi.
- Evening options: watch a traditional Water Puppet Show or join a Hanoi Street Food Tour to taste authentic local flavors.
📍 Book Hanoi City or Street Food Tour
Day 2: Hanoi → Ninh Binh (Trang An, Tam Coc & Hoa Lu)
- Morning drive (2 hrs) to Ninh Binh, the “Inland Ha Long Bay.”
- Sail through the mystical caves of Trang An or Tam Coc, surrounded by limestone cliffs and golden rice fields.
- Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and Bich Dong Pagoda, then relax overnight in a peaceful eco-lodge.
📍 Explore More: Ninh Binh Day Tour from Hanoi
Day 3: Ninh Binh → Ha Long Bay – UNESCO Wonder
- Morning transfer (4.5 hrs) to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Board an overnight cruise, kayak through hidden lagoons, and explore Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave.
- Enjoy a sunset dinner on deck as limestone peaks fade into twilight.
📍 Find Your Ha Long Bay Cruise
Day 4: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi → Sapa (Night Train or Bus)
- After brunch onboard, return to Hanoi by afternoon.
- Board a night train or sleeper bus to Sapa (6–8 hrs).
- Rest and get ready for the mountain breeze awaiting you.
Day 5: Sapa – Trekking Through Terraced Fields
- Wake up in the misty highlands of Sapa. Trek through Cat Cat village, Lao Chai and Ta Van villages — meet the Hmong and Dao ethnic groups, and stay in a cozy local homestay overlooking the rice terraces.
📍 Read more: Sapa Trekking: Best Tips, Routes, to Have Your Amazing Trip!
Day 6: Sapa – Fansipan Peak & Return to Hanoi
- Ride the Fansipan Cable Car, the “Roof of Indochina,” for breathtaking mountain views.
- Afternoon: return to Hanoi by bus or train.
Day 7: Hanoi Free Day or Departure
- Enjoy a relaxed final day — stroll the French Quarter, visit Long Bien Bridge, or explore local art cafés.
Optional: extend your trip to Mai Chau or Ha Giang for deeper cultural immersion.
💬 Want to extend this into a personalized 8–10 day Northern Vietnam route? Message our local experts on WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535 for a custom itinerary and quote.
10-Day North Vietnam Itinerary — The Classic Adventure Route
If you have around 10 days in Northern Vietnam, this itinerary gives you the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and stunning nature — from the Red River Delta to the far northern mountains. Ideal for explorers who want the full Northern experience without rushing.
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi – Vietnam’s Timeless Capital
- Ease into your adventure with a day in Hanoi. Wander through Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and colonial French architecture.
- Evening: taste local favorites like Pho, Bun Cha, and egg coffee, or unwind with a rooftop sunset view.
Day 2: Hanoi → Ninh Binh (Tam Coc & Mua Cave)
- Morning transfer (2 hrs). Take a Tam Coc boat ride through caves and limestone peaks — a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Hike to Mua Cave viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas, then visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
- Overnight in Ninh Binh countryside.
📍 Book Tam Coc & Mua Cave Day Trip
Day 3: Ninh Binh → Ha Long Bay – The Jewel of the North
- Drive 3.5 hrs to Ha Long Bay. Board a deluxe overnight cruise, kayak around floating villages, and visit Sung Sot Cave and Titop island.
- Evening: seafood dinner on deck under the stars.
👉 Read more: Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay: 4 Most popular transportation options for tourists
Day 4: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi (Rest & Recharge)
- Start the morning with Tai Chi on the sundeck, enjoy brunch, enjoy sunset party sundeck, and cruise back to port.
- Return to Hanoi by afternoon for a relaxed evening — visit night markets or enjoy live music at a local café.
📍 Find Your Ha Long Bay Cruise
Day 5: Hanoi → Ha Giang (The Mountain Gateway)
- Morning bus or private transfer (6–7 hrs) to Ha Giang City.
- Check into a local homestay, enjoy dinner with your host family, and prepare for the Ha Giang Loop adventure.
Day 6: Ha Giang Loop (Quan Ba – Yen Minh – Dong Van)
- Drive through twisting mountain passes, scenic valleys, and ethnic minority villages.
- Stop at Quan Ba Heaven Gate and Lung Tam weaving village.
- Overnight in Dong Van.
Day 7: Dong Van → Ma Pi Leng Pass → Meo Vac
- Experience one of Asia’s most dramatic roads — Ma Pi Leng Pass.
- Photo stops, local markets, and a lunch overlooking the canyon.
- Overnight in Meo Vac or return to Ha Giang.
Day 8: Ha Giang → Hanoi (Sleeper Bus or Private Transfer)
- Morning coffee in the mountains, then travel back to Hanoi (approx. 6–8 hrs).
- Evening free for rest or exploring Hanoi’s local food scene.
Day 9: Hanoi Free Day – Culture & Chill
- Enjoy a leisurely day visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and West Lake.
Optional: Cooking class, spa treatment, or a quiet afternoon café-hopping experience.
Day 10: Departure / Extend to Mai Chau or Pu Luong
- Depending on your flight, enjoy a final walk in the Old Quarter or souvenir shopping.
Optional extension: head to Mai Chau or Pu Luong for a soft adventure amid rice terraces and stilt houses.
💬 Want to customize your 10-day North Vietnam adventure? We can tailor the route, hotels, and activities based on your interests — from culture & nature to photography & adventure.👉 Message us on WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 / +84 914 815 535 for a free consultation & quote.
14-Day North Vietnam Itinerary — Full Northern Vietnam Experience
Two weeks in Northern Vietnam lets you experience everything — from misty mountains and golden rice terraces to ancient capitals and emerald bays. This itinerary is crafted for travelers who crave depth, culture, and authentic local encounters.
Day 1–2: Hanoi – The Heartbeat of Vietnam
- Begin in Hanoi, where the past meets the present.
- Stroll the Old Quarter, explore Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and watch the sunset by West Lake.
- Evening: dive into street food — Pho, Bun Cha, and Egg Coffee — or enjoy a traditional water puppet show.
Day 3–4: Ninh Binh – Limestone Valleys & Ancient Temples
- Drive 2 hours to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land.”
- Sail through the magical caves of Trang An, climb Mua Cave for panoramic views, and visit Bai Dinh Pagoda — Southeast Asia’s largest.
- Overnight at a peaceful eco-lodge surrounded by rice paddies.
📍 Explore: Bai Dinh – Trang An & Mua Cave Tour
Day 5–6: Mai Chau / Pu Luong – Rice Fields & Village Life
- Travel 3–4 hours to Mai Chau or Pu Luong, home to Thai ethnic villages and terraced valleys.
- Cycle between bamboo forests, learn weaving from locals, and enjoy homestay dinners with dance and rice wine.
- Wake up to birdsong and mist rolling over green hills — a perfect slow-travel moment.
Day 7–10: Ha Giang Loop – The Soul of the North
- Venture north to Ha Giang, where dramatic limestone peaks meet winding mountain passes.
- Ride or travel by car through Quan Ba Heaven Gate, Dong Van Karst Plateau, and the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass.
- Stay in ethnic homestays, visit local markets, and experience raw, untouched Vietnam.
📍 Explore:
Day 11–12: Sapa – Terraces & Tribal Trails
- Continue to Sapa, the land of misty mountains and ethnic diversity.
- Trek through Cat Cat, Lao Chai, and Ta Van villages; meet Hmong and Dao communities; and enjoy breathtaking views of Fansipan Peak — “the Roof of Indochina.”
Optional: Cable car or guided hike.
Day 13–14: Ha Long Bay – A Grand Finale at Sea
- End your journey with two unforgettable days cruising through Ha Long Bay.
- Kayak beneath limestone arches, visit Sung Sot Cave, and enjoy sunset cocktails on deck.
- Spend your last night on the water — the perfect ending to a two-week odyssey.
- Return to Hanoi on Day 14 for your flight home.
💬 Want to personalize this 14-day itinerary? We can tailor it to your pace and interests — from photography and trekking to cultural immersion or family travel. 👉 Chat now on WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 / +84 914 815 535 to design your dream North Vietnam adventure and get a custom quote instantly.
Practical Information for Visitors
Planning your North Vietnam itinerary is easier than you might think — the region is compact, well-connected, and packed with breathtaking scenery. Whether you have 5, 7, 10, or 14 days, knowing when to go, how to move, and where to stay helps you make the most of your North Vietnam travel.
Best Time to Visit North Vietnam
The best time to visit North Vietnam is from September to November or March to May, when weather conditions are ideal for exploring mountains, rivers, and rice fields.
- Spring (Mar–May): Cool weather, blooming flowers — great for sightseeing.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Lush green fields and waterfalls, but expect some rain.
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Golden harvests and crisp air — best for trekking.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Misty, romantic, perfect for cozy homestays.
💡 Travel tip: For the most photogenic North Vietnam itinerary, plan your trip in late September — golden terraces in Sapa and Ha Giang are at their peak.
👉 Read more: Full Guide North Vietnam weather
North Vietnam Map & How the Route Connects
Most North Vietnam travel routes start and end in Hanoi — the capital and main transport hub. From there, travelers usually follow a loop through Ninh Binh, Sapa, Ha Giang, and Ha Long Bay.
- Typical route: Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Sapa → Ha Giang → Ha Long Bay → return to Hanoi.
⏱️ Most transfers take only 2–6 hours, making it easy to customize your trip.
💡 Pro tip: Start your Norther Vietnam itinerary in Hanoi (international hub), head south to Ninh Binh, then move north to Sapa and Ha Giang, finishing with Ha Long Bay for relaxation.
Transportation Tips – Getting Around
Getting around North Vietnam is simple once you know your options:
- Private car / Limousine bus: Most comfortable (Hanoi to Ninh Binh or Ha Long).
- Train: Scenic overnight rides to Sapa (Lao Cai).
- Local bus: Cheapest for short routes like Hanoi ↔ Ninh Binh.
- Motorbike: Ideal for the Ha Giang Loop — adventurous but thrilling.
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💡Insider tip: Combine transport + tour packages to save time and cost.
Accommodation Guide by Region
Your accommodation adds flavor to your journey. Here’s where travelers usually stay during a North Vietnam trip:
- Hanoi: Stay in Old Quarter for charm, French Quarter for comfort.
- Ninh Binh: Choose Tam Coc for riverside views, Trang An for nature retreats.
- Sapa: Town center for convenience, Ta Van for authentic homestays.
- Ha Giang: Split nights between Ha Giang City and Dong Van / Meo Vac.
- Ha Long Bay: Overnight cruise or Cat Ba Island stay for budget options.
💡 Tip: Many boutique stays and eco-lodges offer sustainable options that fit perfectly into a slow-travel style North Vietnam itinerary.
North Vietnam Highlights by Region
Each region offers a different rhythm — from city culture to remote ethnic villages and world-class natural wonders. Here are the top places to visit in North Vietnam you shouldn’t miss:
Hanoi – Gateway to Every North Vietnam Itinerary
- Every North Vietnam itinerary begins in Hanoi, where colonial charm meets street food heaven.
- Wander around Hoan Kiem Lake, the Hanoi Old Quarter, and Train Street. Taste Pho, Bun Cha, and Egg Coffee, or enjoy a Water Puppet Show.
Ninh Binh – “Inland Ha Long Bay”
- Known as the “Inland Ha Long Bay,” Ninh Binh is a must on any North Vietnam travel route.
- Take a Trang An boat tour through limestone caves, hike to Mua Cave Viewpoint, and visit Bai Dinh Pagoda.
- Don’t miss the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve — a quiet alternative with limestone peaks and rare Delacour’s langurs.
👉 Explore All Best Ninh Binh Day Tours
Sapa – Terraces & Ethnic Villages
Sapa – Mountains, Rice Terraces & Ethnic Culture
- Famous for trekking, Sapa offers postcard-perfect rice terraces and cool mountain air.
- Walk through Lao Chai village, Ta Van village, and Cat Cat villages, or ride the Fansipan Mountain with Cable Car — the “Roof of Indochina.”
👉 Find your Best Sapa Tours package
Ha Giang – The Ultimate Northern Adventure
- For those seeking raw beauty, Ha Giang Loop is the soul of Northern Vietnam.
- Ride past Quan Ba Heaven Gate, Dong Van Plateau, and Ma Pi Leng Pass — the most dramatic road in Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay – A Stunning Finale
- No North Vietnam itinerary is complete without Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Cruise through limestone islands, kayak hidden lagoons, and enjoy sunset dinners on deck.
💡Travel insight: Combine Ninh Binh + Sapa + Ha Giang + Ha Long for a full Northern loop — landscapes, culture, and unforgettable people.
Bonus Stop: Mai Chau & Pu Luong
- A peaceful escape of stilt houses, rice terraces, and cultural immersion.
- Perfect for travelers seeking slow travel and authentic local life, just 3 hours from Hanoi.
💬 Need help planning your route? Our local experts can customize your North Vietnam itinerary — from transfers and accommodations to authentic local experiences. Chat on WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 914 815 535. We’ll help you design a route that perfectly fits your time, interests, and travel style.
Practical Travel Tips
- Visa: E-visa available for most nationalities (30 days).
- Money: Cash is king; ATMs in major towns.
- SIM cards: Viettel or Mobifone — best coverage.
- Clothing: Layers for mountains, light clothes for Hanoi & Ninh Binh.
- Safety: Vietnam is very safe; watch for motorbikes when crossing streets.
- Best time to visit: Oct–Apr (cool & dry).
North Vietnam Itinerary FAQs
How many days do you need for North Vietnam?
- Most travelers spend 7–10 days exploring the North.
- A 7-day North Vietnam itinerary covers Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay.
- If you have more time, a 10–14 day itinerary lets you add Ha Giang Loop and Mai Chau for a deeper cultural experience.
What is the best time to visit North Vietnam?
- The best time is September to November and March to May, when the weather is cool and dry.
- Rice terraces in Sapa and Ha Giang are at their most beautiful from late September to early October.
Is North Vietnam safe for tourists?
- Yes! North Vietnam is generally very safe. Just take common-sense precautions — keep your belongings secure and use official transportation or trusted tour operators.
How do I get around North Vietnam?
- You can travel between regions by limousine bus, train, or domestic flights.
- For Ha Giang or Mai Chau, guided motorbike tours or private cars are highly recommended for comfort and safety.
What are must-try local dishes in North Vietnam?
Don’t miss:
- Pho Bo (Hanoi-style beef noodle soup)
- Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli)
- Goat meat & scorched rice in Ninh Binh
- Sapa salmon hotpot
- Ha Long grilled squid (Cha Muc)
Can I customize my North Vietnam itinerary?
- Absolutely! You can easily tailor your trip to your interests — from cultural immersion to eco-adventures or culinary discovery.
👉 Contact our travel experts for a free customized North Vietnam itinerary today. Message us on WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 / +84 914 815 535 — we’ll help you craft a tailor-made journey, including transfers, local tours, and authentic stays.
