Day 1
Hanoi Arrival, Half Day City Tour ( Ba Dinh Square, One Pillar Pagoda, The Temple of Literature), Water Puppet Show
Welcome to Hanoi!
Upon your arrival at Hanoi Airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly local representative who will whisk you away for an unforgettable half-day sightseeing tour of this vibrant city.
Your adventure begins at the historic Ba Dinh Square, where you’ll have the opportunity to pay your respects at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (please note: the mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, throughout October and November, and all afternoons). Picture yourself standing in the very heart of Vietnam’s history, where Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945.
Just a stroll away, admire the charming exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s former residence. Its quaint architecture is a window into the simple lifestyle of one of the most influential leaders in Vietnamese history.
Next, visit the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a breathtaking structure built in the middle of a serene square lake. Its unique design represents a lotus blossom rising from the water, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.
Then, immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich educational heritage at the Temple of Literature. This sacred site was once home to the Imperial Academy, the first national university in Vietnam, dedicated to Confucius. Stroll through its tranquil courtyards and feel the wisdom that fills the air.
After a morning filled with exploration, indulge in a delicious lunch before checking into your hotel in Hanoi. In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time!
Explore the bustling streets of the Hanoi Old Quarter, where vibrant markets, historic architecture, and mouth-watering street food await. Don’t miss a visit to the bustling Dong Xuan Market, the magnificent Opera House, and the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake. Wander across The Huc Bridge, admire the picturesque Thap But (Pen Tower), and visit the serene Ngoc Son Temple, nestled on an island within the lake. Enjoy some exciting shopping at the charming boutiques and stalls in the Old Quarter.
As the sun sets, savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sampling the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. To cap off your day, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Vietnamese culture with a mesmerizing performance of the traditional art of Water Puppetry at the Theatre.
Breakfast: Not included in tour price
Lunch and Dinner: Included in tour price
DAY 2
Hanoi, Halong Bay Tour (Thien Cung, Dau Go Grotto)
After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, your adventure begins as your guide arrives to whisk you away on an exciting journey 165 kilometers east of Hanoi to the breathtaking Halong Bay. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning destination is a jewel of Vietnam, renowned for its incredible natural beauty and fascinating rock formations.
Upon arrival, you’ll board a charming boat and set off on a leisurely 4-hour cruise across the emerald waters of Halong Bay. As you sail, marvel at the whimsical rock formations, including the iconic Dinh Huong (the Incense Urn) and Cho Da (the Stone Dog), along with picturesque islands adorned with sandy beaches and the famous Ga Choi (the Fighting Roosters) islets. Halong Bay, known in Vietnamese as “Rồng Bay Xuống Biển” (Dragon Descending to the Sea), is a place where legends and natural wonders converge, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Your journey continues as you explore the stunning Thien Cung (Heaven Palace) cave, celebrated as the most beautiful primitive cave in Halong Bay and the longest dry cave in Asia. As you navigate through its impressive chambers, take in the awe-inspiring stalactites and vibrant rock formations that tell stories of ancient times. Next, enjoy a short hike to the nearby Dau Go grotto, where you can hear the captivating legend behind the cave and witness its enchanting waterfall, adorned with hundreds of stunning stalactites resembling sparkling gems.
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, savor a delicious seafood lunch served fresh on the boat, a quintessential part of any Halong Bay experience. Afterward, it’s time to sail back to the harbor and disembark, cherishing the memories of this remarkable day.
Finally, relax on the scenic drive back to Hanoi, where your evening awaits in the vibrant heart of the city. An overnight stay in Hanoi ensures that your adventure continues, with more exploration and excitement on the horizon!
Breakfast and Lunch: Included in tour price
Dinner: Not included in tour price
DAY 3
Hanoi to Sapa, Cat Cat Village ( Lao Cai City, H’mong Ethnic Tribe)
After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, let’s get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey! We’ll check out of the hotel and set off on an exciting 295-kilometer drive along Vietnam’s new highway, weaving through the scenic beauty of five enchanting provinces: Ha Noi, Vinh Phuc, Phu Tho, Yen Bai, and Lao Cai.
As we cruise along the highway, we’ll take a refreshing 30-minute break to stretch our legs and soak in the surrounding landscapes.
Our next stop is the vibrant Lao Cai city, where we’ll take a second comfort break. Feel free to explore the local surroundings and enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee while we prepare to venture into the heart of Sapa.
Welcome to Sapa! As we arrive in this colorful town, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant traditional costumes of the H’mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic communities. The rich tapestry of cultures makes Sapa a feast for the senses!
Get ready for an immersive cultural experience as we take a short drive to the picturesque gate of Cat Cat village, the home of the Black H’Mong ethnic people. Nestled at the bottom of a deep valley at the foot of the majestic Fansipan Peak, Cat Cat village offers a peek into the daily life of the locals.
As we embark on a leisurely 2-hour trek (approximately 2.5 km) down to the valley bottom, you’ll have the chance to witness breathtaking views and connect with nature. Along the way, we’ll visit a stunning waterfall and the Hydraulic Power Station, where you can snap some unforgettable photos against the backdrop of the serene landscape.
Once we’ve soaked in the beauty of the waterfall and the charming bridge nearby, we’ll trek back up the hill to catch our bus back to Sapa town.
After a day filled with exploration and adventure, you’ll have the evening to relax and recharge in Sapa. Enjoy the cool mountain breeze, indulge in local cuisine, and soak in the magical ambiance of this beautiful mountainous town.
Overnight in Sapa awaits, where dreams filled with the sights and sounds of Vietnam will carry you through the night!
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: Included in tour price
DAY 4
Sapa, Fansipan Peak, back to Hanoi
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, get ready for an unforgettable day. Meet your friendly guide in the hotel lobby, buzzing with excitement for the adventure ahead. Together, we’ll take a short stroll to the nearby Muong Hoa Station, where you’ll board a charming train bound for the Fansipan Cable Car Station.
As you settle into your seat, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking views of the Muong Hoa Valley during the 7-minute ride. Once at the cable car station, prepare for a spectacular ascent over 20 magical minutes, gliding through the air and soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery.
At an impressive altitude of 2,800 meters, you’ll be greeted by panoramic vistas that will take your breath away. Capture stunning photos, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the landscape, and explore the beautiful pagoda that stands as a spiritual beacon among the clouds. For the intrepid, embark on a trek up 600 steps (approximately 20-30 minutes) that leads to the very peak of Fansipan—known as the Roof of Indochina. Spend around 1.5 hours hiking, soaking in the views, and snapping photos that you’ll cherish forever!
After an exhilarating experience at the peak, make your way back down via cable car and train, returning to the charming Sapa Town.
Once back, treat yourself to a delightful lunch and enjoy some leisurely time on your own, exploring the quaint streets, local shops, or simply relaxing in a cozy café.
At 14:30, it’s time to hop aboard your vehicle to head back to Hanoi. Don’t worry, we’ll make two comfortable breaks along the way so you can stretch your legs and take in more of Vietnam’s picturesque landscapes.
As evening falls, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Hanoi, where you can unwind and reflect on an unforgettable day of adventure in the majestic mountains of Sapa. Overnight in Hanoi awaits!
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: Included in tour price
Day 5
Hanoi Departure
Indulge in a leisurely afternoon breakfast, savoring every bite at your own pace. Take this precious time to relax and unwind, soaking in the sights and sounds around you. Whether you choose to explore, read a captivating book, or simply revel in the tranquility of the moment, the choice is yours.
As your day unfolds, you’ll be transferred to Hanoi/Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight, accompanied by our friendly driver. This seamless transition ensures your journey is smooth and stress-free as you reflect on the wonderful experiences you’ve had. Safe travels!
Breakfast: Included in tour price
