North & Central Vietnam Tour - Nature, Culture, and Heritage

09 Days   View Departures  
    
Hanoi - Hoan Kiem Lake
Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu
Ninh Binh - Tam Coc
Ninh Binh - Tam Coc
Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay
Hoi An - Cam Thanh Village
My Son
Overview
ninh-binh-26.webp
  • Start/End: Hanoi/Da Nang
  • Route: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Bai Tu Long Bay - Da Nang - Hoi An
  • Duration: 09 Days
  • Theme: Culture and Heritage, Nature & Discover
  • Tour type: Group tour ( Max 12 Adults)
  • Tour schedule: Daily departure
  • Tour guide in: English
Highlight

Join us on this 9-day journey to explore the must-see destinations of Northern and Central Vietnam, including the vibrant capital city of Hanoi, the ancient Dinh and Le Temples in Hoa Lu, the peaceful beauty of Tam Coc in Ninh Binh, and an unforgettable overnight cruise on Bai Tu Long Bay. You'll also enjoy a delightful bamboo basket boat trip in Hoi An and explore the ancient ruins of My Son. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers with limited time in Vietnam, this trip offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and stunning landscapes of these iconic locations.

Notes
This is not a group tour from start to finish; instead, you will join different group tours in various cities, which we co-organize with our local partners. Each day, you’ll be part of a new group of fellow travelers. After receiving your inquiry, one of our travel consultants will promptly get in touch to confirm the availability of your trip.
Itinerary
Day by day itinerary Expand All
  • Arrival in Hanoi, pick-up at Noi Bai Airport, and transfer to hotel

    Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our driver at the exit of the arrival hall. You’ll then enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, passing over the Red River, where you can catch a glimpse of the city’s unique architecture and its famously bustling traffic. Once you arrive in the Old Quarter, the driver will drop you off at your hotel.

    Included:
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Hanoi city tour 1 day (group tour)

    8:00 - 8:30 AM: Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. If you are staying outside the Old Quarter, you can either arrange your own transportation to our departure point or we can arrange a hotel pick-up for an additional fee. From there, we will start our exploration of the city.

    08:45: Our first stop will be at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the final resting place of Vietnam's revered leader, Uncle Ho. You’ll have the chance to view the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh and stroll through the garden to see the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Afterward, we’ll visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique structure dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy.

    10:15: Next, we’ll explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the diverse cultures of the 54 ethnic groups that call Vietnam home. (Please note: If the museum is closed on Mondays, we will visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum instead.)

    12:30 - 12:45: Enjoy a lunch break at our restaurant, where you can savor Vietnamese cuisine. Vegetarian options are available upon request (please inform us when booking).

    13:30: We’ll then visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. This is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, dating back to the 6th century.

    14:30: Our next stop is the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1070. It’s one of Northern Vietnam’s most popular tourist attractions.

    15:30: We’ll continue to Hoa Lo Prison, originally built by the French from 1886 to 1901 during their occupation of Vietnam. Known as “Maison Centrale” by the French, this site is now a museum, offering insights into Vietnam’s struggle against French colonial rule.

    16:30: Finally, our bus will take you back to your hotel, concluding our one-day city tour.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Day trip to Ninh Binh, visit Hoa Lu and Tam Coc (group tour)

    7:00 - 7:30 AM: Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. If you are staying outside the Old Quarter, you can either arrange your own transportation to our departure point or we can arrange a hotel pick-up for an additional fee. We will then set off for Ninh Binh. The province is located about 120 km from the center of Hanoi, and the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

    9:00 AM: We'll make a brief stop along the way for you to stretch and relax.

    10:30 AM: Upon arriving in Ninh Binh, our first stop will be Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010. Here, you'll have the opportunity to delve into Vietnamese history, exploring the feudal system under the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties. We’ll visit the Temple of King Dinh and the Temple of King Le.

    11:30: We'll hop on bikes for a 45-minute ride through the village, giving you a chance to experience local life firsthand.

    12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties like goat meat and fried rice. Vegetarian options are also available at the buffet.

    13:30 - 14:00: After lunch, we'll embark on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride to explore Tam Coc . As we glide along, you'll be captivated by the picturesque beauty of the area, with its lush paddy fields, winding river, and stunning cave formations, all set against a backdrop of sky and clouds. This enchanting landscape, often referred to as 'Halong Bay on land,' truly lives up to its name.

    4:00 PM: We’ll board the bus for our return trip to Hanoi.

    6:30 - 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi, with drop-off at your hotel in the Old Quarter, concluding our one-day excursion.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Tam Coc
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Bike: Ninh Binh
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Travel from Hanoi to Halong city by shuttle bus, embark at Bai Chay port, and cruise in Bai Tu Long bay (join-in cruise)

    If transport is included, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. From there, we’ll begin our journey to Halong City, enjoying a scenic drive through the picturesque Red River Delta. The trip takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with a convenient stop along the way for restrooms if needed.

    11:45: Arrive at Sunworld International Harbor, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City.

    12:15: Transfer to the Garden Bay Cruise boat by tender (5-10 minutes).

    12:30: Enjoy a welcome drink, followed by a safety briefing, and then check into your cabin.

    13:00: Cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay while enjoying a set-menu lunch.

    15:30: Kayak to explore the lagoons, swim, or relax on the beach at Cap La.

    17:30: Relax and enjoy the sunset party during Happy Hour (from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM), while the boat cruises to the Cong Dong - Cong Do area, where it will anchor for the night.

    19:00: Savor a BBQ dinner (on the sundeck if weather permits, otherwise in the restaurant).

    21:00: Free time for evening activities, such as board games, squid fishing, playing guitar, watching movies, or karaoke (upon request). You can also visit our luxury sky bar (drinks are chargeable) and choose from a wide variety of wines, cocktails, brandy, and juices.

    Included:
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L, D
    Entrance fees
    Kayak: Bai Tu Long
    Leisure: Squid fishing
    Garden Bay Legend Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
    73 Ly Nam De street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Cruise ends, disembark, and travel back to Hanoi by shuttle bus.

    06:30: Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the deck.

    07:00: Enjoy a light breakfast while the boat cruises toward the Vung Vieng area (approx. 45 minutes).

    07:45: Explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village by bamboo boat, and experience the daily life of the local fishing community.

    09:00: Return to the main boat for some relaxation and packing.

    09:30: Check out of your cabin and unwind on the sundeck.

    10:30: Savor your last view of Halong Bay over brunch as the boat heads back to shore.

    11:30: Disembark and relax at the café lounge.

    You will be met at the cruise waiting lounge, then transferred to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 2.5–3 hours, with an optional restroom stop along the way.

    Included:
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Halong bamboo boat
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Fly to Da Nang, travel to Hoi An

    Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Noi Bai Airport. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.

    Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Hoi An, a journey of approximately 1 hour. 

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Flight :Flight (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 04 tickets
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Explore Cam Thanh coconut village and experience bamboo basket boat ride (group tour)

    9:00 AM: Our friendly tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hoi An Ancient Town. From there, we’ll transfer to Cam Thanh village.

    Upon arrival, you'll meet local fishermen and get a firsthand look at their daily lives. Experience traditional fishing methods with both round nets and cast nets, guided by the local fishermen. Learn to paddle a unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat and even join in on a basket boat race. You'll also enjoy a basket boat performance. Try your hand at crab catching and net casting.

    Afterward, we'll head back to a fisherman’s house for a cooking show, featuring a fire performance by the master chef. If you're interested, you can even step in as the chef yourself.

    Next, we'll enjoy a meal of local dishes. Finally, we'll transfer you back to your hotel in Hoi An.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Cam Thanh
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Morning trip to My Son with lunch, and boat trip on Thu Bon river (group tour)

    07:30 – 08:00 AM: Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hoi An ancient town. From there, we’ll set off for My Son sanctuary.

    9:30 AM: Arrive at My Son, where you'll have about two hours to explore this ancient site. Stroll through the stunning landscape, uncover the rich history of the Champa Kingdom with our knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and be captivated by traditional Champa performances.

    11:45 AM: Return to the bus and head to a local house where you'll learn the art of making rice paper. Get hands-on and enjoy the satisfaction of tasting your own freshly made creation!

    12:30 PM: Hop back into the van and travel to another local house for lunch. Savor delicious, authentic dishes while relaxing with cold herbal tea in the peaceful surroundings, enjoying the fresh air.

    1:00 PM: Embark on a scenic boat trip along the Thu Bon River, the largest in Central Vietnam. Feel the refreshing breeze as you take in the beautiful river views, offering a perfect end to your journey.

    1:30 PM: Arrive in Hoi An, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Thu Bon river
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Transfer to Da Nang airport for onward flight

    Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hoi An and transfer you to Da Nang Airport.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Video:
Extensions
Why not treat yourself to a relaxing beach break or a cultural discovery?

    Inclusions
    • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
    • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
    • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
    • Cruise: Garden Bay Legend Cruise - 2D1N
    • Boat: Tam Coc, Halong bamboo boat, Cam Thanh, Thu Bon river
    • Transportation
    • Flight Ticket: Flight HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
    • Meal: Breakfast: 08, Lunch: 06, Dinner: 01
    • Bike: Ninh Binh
    • Kayak: Bai Tu Long
    • Leisure: Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
    • Service charges and Taxes
    Exclusions
    • International flight from/to your country
    • Travel insurance
    • Personal expenses
    • Tipping and Gratuities
    • Other not mentioned in the program
    Departures
    Starting
    Ending
    Price
    Good to know
    • Passeport & Visa

      Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival in Vietnam and contain a minimum of two blank pages.

      French citizens, as well as nationals of 12 other countries (including Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain), may enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 days. If you plan to stay longer, or if your nationality is not eligible for this exemption, please check with the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or feel free to contact us for further information.

    • International flights

      International flights are not included in the price of our tours. You are free to choose and book the flights that best suit your needs and schedule. If you wish, our travel consultants can assist you in finding the best available options.

    • Travel insurance

      Valid travel insurance is mandatory to participate in the tour. It must cover the following:

      • Emergency medical expenses (including hospitalization and repatriation)
      • Trip cancellations or interruptions
      • Activities included in your itinerary, including outdoor excursions

      Before departure, please provide us with the following information:

      • The name of your insurance company
      • Your policy number
      • A 24/7 emergency assistance contact number

      Please check whether your credit card already provides coverage and consider purchasing additional insurance if necessary.

    • Weather & best time to visit Vietnam

      Spring (February to April) and autumn (September to December) are the most pleasant seasons to visit Vietnam, with mild weather and limited rainfall. However, the country stretches over more than 1,600 km, and weather conditions vary significantly. Vietnam can be visited year-round:

      • North: Cool winters (December to February), hot and humid summers.
      • Central: Rainy season from September to November.
      • South: Tropical climate, warm year-round, with frequent showers from May to October.

      Please pack clothing suitable for each region according to your itinerary.

    • Time zone

      Vietnam operates on GMT+7 year-round. There is no seasonal time change.

    • Currency and Payments

      The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US dollars and euros are sometimes accepted in hotels, but this is not guaranteed.

      • Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in most mid-range to high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops.
      • ATMs are widely available in major cities.
      • Currency exchange is possible at the airport, banks, or authorized exchange offices.

      Tip: Avoid using old, damaged, or torn banknotes, as they are often refused for payment.

    • Domestic flights

      If your tour includes domestic flights, the exact schedules, flight numbers, and relevant details will be provided in your travel documents.

      Please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, bringing your passport and electronic ticket (or booking reference).

      Baggage: Checked baggage allowance generally ranges between 20 kg and 23 kg, depending on the airline. Cabin baggage is usually limited to 7 kg.

      Attention: Additional fees may apply if you exceed the permitted limits. We recommend checking the specific conditions of each airline (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, etc.) before your flight.

      Flight schedules are subject to change by the airline. We will keep you informed in case of any updates.

    • Flight Connections

      If you have a connecting domestic flight in Vietnam, please follow these steps upon arrival:

      • Collect your checked luggage.
      • Proceed through immigration and customs.
      • Make your way to the domestic terminal (at some airports, this may require a walk or a shuttle transfer).

      Airport staff are generally available to assist you if needed. Do not hesitate to ask for help.

      Recommended connection time: minimum 2 hours 30 minutes
      This allows sufficient time for possible flight delays, queues at immigration and customs, and transfers between terminals.

      Practical tip: At major airports such as Hanoi (Noi Bai) or Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), domestic and international terminals are not always located in the same building. Please allow ample time and follow the signs upon arrival.

    • Vaccinations & Personal Medication

      No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Vietnam.

      However, health authorities recommend the following vaccinations, especially for long stays or travel in rural areas:

      • Hepatitis A and B
      • Typhoid fever
      • Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (booster shots recommended)
      • Rabies (in case of prolonged stays in rural areas or possible contact with animals)

      If you are undergoing regular medical treatment, please ensure you bring a sufficient supply of medication for the entire duration of your stay.
      Do not forget to carry your prescription, preferably in English, to facilitate any checks or medical consultations on site.

    • Malaria & Mosquitoes

      The risk of malaria is very low in Vietnam’s main tourist areas, including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and the tourist areas of the Mekong Delta. No malaria prophylaxis is generally recommended for these regions.

      However, if you plan to travel to remote rural, forested, or mountainous areas (for example, Muong Te in Lai Chau, certain border or isolated areas of the northern highlands, or deep areas of the Mekong), you should consult a doctor or a travel medicine clinic to assess the need for preventive treatment.

      Tips to protect yourself from mosquito bites

      • Apply insect repellent to exposed skin containing DEET (30–50%), icaridin, or PMD (citriodiol).
      • Wear long, covering clothing, especially in the early evening and at night.
      • Sleep under a mosquito net, particularly in simple accommodations, natural settings, or places without air conditioning.
      • Use electric diffusers or mosquito coils in the evening in non-air-conditioned areas.
      • Avoid stagnant water near your accommodation, as it is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
    • Airport Pick-up

      Upon your arrival in Vietnam, our driver will be waiting for you at the airport exit, holding a sign displaying: “IZITOUR – [Your name]”.

      Please take a moment to carefully check the signs at the arrival exit. If you have any difficulty locating our driver, do not hesitate to contact our assistance team, available 24/7, at the following number:
      +84 382 536 266 (direct call or WhatsApp available).

      Practical tip: Make sure your phone is activated for international calls or internet access upon arrival to facilitate communication if needed.

      Note: At some airports, several drivers may be waiting at the exit. If you do not immediately find our representative, please remain in the meeting area and contact us — we will assist you promptly.

    • Small Group Tour

      Our small-group tours generally bring together between 4 and 7 participants. You will travel alongside people from diverse backgrounds, with different nationalities, cultures, and ages. This is a great opportunity to share experiences, exchange perspectives, and build meaningful connections throughout the journey.

      To ensure that all planned activities run smoothly, punctuality is essential. Please respect the schedules communicated by your local guide to guarantee an enjoyable and seamless experience for the entire group.

    • Shared and private room

      For group tours, room allocation is based on the gender indicated on your passport. By default, you will share a twin room with a traveler of the same gender.
      You will be accommodated in a single room in the following cases:

      • You prefer to have a single room.
      • No other traveler wishes to share a room.

      In both cases, a single supplement applies. Please contact your travel consultant to check availability and the exact supplement amount.
      Note: This supplement does not apply to train cabins, which include four berths per compartment.

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