Northern & Central Vietnam Highlights: Hanoi to Hue

08 Days   View Prices  
    
Hanoi - Ngoc Son Temple
Hanoi - Old Quarter
Hanoi - Quan Thanh Temple
Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Hoi An - Ancient town
Hoi An - Cam Thanh Village
Hoi An - Chua Cau Pagoda
Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda
Hue - Khai Dinh Tomb
Hue - Minh Mang Tomb
Hue - Imperial City
Overview
highlight-of-the-northern-central-vietnam.webp
  • Start/End: Hanoi/Hue
  • Route: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Hue
  • Duration: 08 Days
  • Theme: Most popular
  • Tour type: Private tour
  • Tour schedule: Daily departure
  • Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Italiano
Highlight

A Journey to discover the most famous sites of Vietnam, from the north to the center. Leave your footprints on incredible destinations, admire beautiful sceneries, have encounters with local residents and enjoy the unique culture and local cuisines.

  • Bustling Hanoi Capital
  • Hue ancient city of Nguyen Dynasty
  • Hoi an Heritage Old town
  • Ha long World Nature Heritage
  • Overnight on Bay
  • Historical, cultural, local life and stunning landscapes experience
Notes
  • Summer season (June to August) is the rainy and hot season in the north and center of Vietnam
  • Possibility of typhoons in rainy season
Itinerary
Day by day itinerary Expand All
  • Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter

    Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide and driver at the pickup lobby. 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.

    Continue the day, tour guide will escort you walking around the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake to the Opera House, stopping at the statue of King Ly Thai To and Vietnamese Government Guest House, Sofitel Metropole Hanoi. Walk back to the Old town, visit some main streets before returning to your hotel.

    Option: If your flight arrives late or you are jet lag after long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the city tour day.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Conifer Grand Hotel(Deluxe Room) *or similar hotel
    42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Visiting the city's highlights, travelling to French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh complex, leisurely walk by the West Lake

    9:00 AM: Get Pick up by tour guide to Temple of Literature which was built under the Ly dynasty in 11th century for worshipping Confucius and teaching Royal children. Enjoy a walk in the garden to the city’s symbol Khue Van Cac. You will then visit the World Heritage "stone steles” which shows the name of outstanding students. Continue to explore the Quoc Tu Giam which is considered as the first national university of Vietnam.

    Follow it with a visit to one of the city’s museums (choose among the National history museum, Hoa Lo, Museum of Ethnology and Fine art museum) before having a break for lunch or some drink (by your own budget).

    In the afternoon you visit French Quarter – it is a “little Paris” in Hanoi with tree-lined boulevards, government head offices and a big square. Visit (outside) Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum before having a leisurely walk in the botanical gardens to visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts where he used to live and work. Towards the unique One – pillar pagoda which is one of the city’s symbols. It takes us from 1 to 2 hours to explore this complex, depending on the number of traveler.

    Continue to Quan Thanh temple, one of the four most important temples in the city, dated back to the 11th century under Ly Thai To King, worshipping the Tran Vu gods, the principal deities in Taoism. Take a leisurely walk on a romantic road crossing the West Lake with beautiful city views. Stop at the Tran Quoc pagoda which dates back to the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De Dynasty.

    Finally enjoy the water puppet shows that is the unique performances, first appeared in the 11th century. In these shows, the daily life, culture and belief of Vietnamese people are described by puppets on water. The show usually integrates a traditional music performance as well.

    Come back to hotel. End of the day

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Water puppet
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Conifer Grand Hotel(Deluxe Room) *or similar hotel
    42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Amazing sailing route, Pearl farm excursion, swimming and hiking at Titov Island, offering a great panoramic views

    8:00 AM: 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.

    11:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina and check in at the waiting lounge.

    12:00: Board the cruise ship, enjoy welcome drinks, and receive a short briefing. Check into your room and prepare for lunch.

    12:30: Indulge in a Vietnamese and international lunch while taking in the scenic beauty of the bay, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, and Three Coconuts Island.

    14:30: Explore Halong Bay further by visiting the Pearl Farm. This is an ideal opportunity for kayaking and experiencing the timeless beauty of Ha Long Bay up close.

    16:00: Explore Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Grotte des Surprising, the largest limestone cave in the area. Marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. (Proper footwear is highly recommended, especially in wet conditions.)

    17:45: Return to the boat and enjoy the bar’s Happy Hour (buy 2, get 1 free).

    (Option: Massage service available. Please book directly with the Cruise Manager.)

    19:30: Delight in a deluxe dinner featuring traditional and fusion dishes prepared by our talented chefs.

    21:00: After dinner, unwind at the bar and spa, participate in squid fishing, watch a movie in your cabin, play cards or chess, or simply relax on the sundeck.

    23:00: Overnight on board.

    Included:
    Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L, D
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Swimming,Squid fishing
    Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Mila Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
    7 Nghi Tam, Tay Ho, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Exploring Sung Sot Cave then leisurely sailing before transfering back to Hanoi for a flight to Danang, Hoi An

    06:15: Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to awaken your senses, followed by breakfast in the restaurant.

    06:30: Enjoy breakfast with coffee, tea, and pastries.

    07:30: Visit Titov Island, known for its stunning sandy beaches and panoramic views of the bay from the top of the limestone island. (Proper footwear is recommended, especially when wet.)

    09:30: Return to the cruise ship. Check out and settle your bill at the reception.

    10:00: Enjoy brunch while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Relax on the sundeck or in the restaurant.

    11:30: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and bid farewell to the crew.

    Our driver will greet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfer you to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, with a restroom stop available along the way (optional).

    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 guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Da Nang, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. Once you reach your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Flight :VN181 (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:10 - 17:40 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Full day to visit Hoi An city tour

    9:00 AM: Pick up from hotel for Hoian excursion. Hoi An used to be one of the most typical South-East Asian trading ports dating from the 15th to the 19th century and the Old Town is still well-preserved. The exchanged cultures is displayed on many historic buildings, religion, daily business and enriched by the authentic lifestyle of local inhabitants.

    First stop is Cam Pho - one of the oldest communal houses in Hoi An. It was built in the shape of Chinese character means the country for worshipping and trading business and cultural exchange between locality and Chinese, Japanese traders.

    Leisurely walk to Hoi An city’s symbol - the Chua Cau or the Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 17th century to allow the Japanese quarter to be accessible from the Chinese neighborhoods. The bridge’s original style has been carefully preserved for the last 400 years.

    Continue walking through the town, immersing into local life and stop at Quan Thang ancient house - one of the most authentic old houses in Hoi An with the lively and fine architecture and sculptures were made by craftsmen of famous Kim Bong carpentry village in the oriental style. The house offers a good look of Hoi An family's daily life. 

    Enrich your tour by visiting Phuc Kien or Fujian Assembly Hall, built since 17th century, is the gathering place for residents, traders and visitors from a specific area in China called Fujian. It is also a religious site to honor the deity Thien Hau. Spend a visit, you will admire the colorful fountains in the courtyard, the ornate gates surrounding the property and the beautiful carved dragons in the main room.

    In the afternoon, drive Tra Que farming village is famous for its aromatic herbs, mint and basil. Their leaves are smaller than normal ones and have a special flavor. Enjoy an interesting introduction to the village’s history, the vegetable cultivation and the usage of vegetables as traditional Vietnamese medicine. It is also a good opportunity to meet and take pictures with local people. 

    After the excursion, travel back to city, free to explore the town or leisure on beach.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    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:
  • Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham sculpture museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue citadel

    8:00 AM: Pick up from hotel then travel to Hue by passing Da Nang along the sea road. Once you arrive in Da Nang, stop to visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections in the world. Then, walk to My Khe beach where you can enjoy the view of giant Goodness of Mercy statues in the Linh Ung Pagoda. Take photos of fishermen by the beach then continue driving along the coastline to Hue ancient capital. Make a stop at top of the Hai Van pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean. 

    Arrival in Hue, enjoy lunch then Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Hue, dating back to 1601. This is the spiritual highlight of the city and well known for its majestic octagon tower and beautiful view of the Perfume River.  

    Keep your tour Hue Citadel, the only vestige symbol for what was once the imperial city of Vietnam. It is inspired by the fortification of Vauban. The city is composed of three parts: Kinh Thanh (the Capital city), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial city) and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). The most beautiful sites in Hue are concentrated in this area including the flag tower, the South gate, the palace of supreme Harmony, the Dynasty temple area and the settlement area.

    End of the day, check in hotel and enjoy stay in ancient capital.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel
    36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Full day to Explore Hue, Boat trip Huong river, Ming Mang's tomb, Thuy Bieu village.

    Transfer from hotel to visit tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, an architectural masterpiece that harmoniously highlights the nature and imperial religious works. The tomb was planned during Minh Mang’s reign (1820–40) but built by his successor, Thieu Tri with the effort of ten thousand workers and artisans.

    Continue your trip, take a boat along Huong River (or Perfume River) to Thuy Bieu Village, admire the picturesque landscapes on both sides. After 1 hour, we arrive to Thuy Bieu, well-known for its divine grapefruit trees where you can take a bike around the village under the shade of the grapefruit trees and enjoy their pleasant perfume aroma and the harvested straw. The peaceful atmosphere is in every corner of the village. Then, visit a temple dedicated to the village protector, a traditional garden house built several centuries ago. This is a wonderful opportunity to stop for great photos and interact with the villagers working in the gardens and vegetable fields which should not be missed.

    Join in cooking class with Hue's specialties selected then have lunch in village then transfer back to city in the afternoon. Tour end around 3:00 PM

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Thuy Bieu - Minh Mang
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Bike: Thuy Bieu
    Cooking class: Thuy Bieu
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel
    36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
    Video:
  • From Hue, flying to other destinations

    Our driver picks you up from your hotel lobby in Hue City and transfers you to Phu Bai Airport. The journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Video:
Prices
Group size
Sharing Twin/Double Room
Private Single Room

Traveling with more than 8 people? You can select a different group size in the next step.

Group Size 9+
Inclusions
  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Mila Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: Thuy Bieu - Minh Mang
  • Transportation
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Flight Ticket: VN181 HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 07, Lunch: 04, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Thuy Bieu
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Swimming, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
  • Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration, Thuy Bieu
  • Service charges and Taxes
Exclusions
  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
Extensions
Why not treat yourself to a relaxing beach break or a cultural discovery?
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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 French-speaking 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.

Select Date and Travelers

Price per pax in USD
  • Adult in sharing Twin/double room$891
  • Adult in single room $1,147

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