Planning a trip to Vietnam? Northern Vietnam offers a mesmerizing blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures. This comprehensive 10-day itinerary is designed to give you a perfect taste of the region’s highlights, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the majestic rice terraces of Sapa and the surreal limestone karsts of Halong Bay.
This guide is built to serve your search intent, whether you’re a first-time visitor, a solo traveler, or an adventurer looking to experience the authentic heart of Vietnam. We’ll cover everything you need, from daily schedules to practical tips and entity-rich insights to make your trip planning effortless.
Day-by-Day Breakdown: Your Northern Vietnam Adventure
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi and Old Quarter Immersion
- Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). Take a taxi or private car to your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Settle in and combat any jet lag.
- Evening: Your Hanoi journey begins! Wander through the narrow, bustling streets of the Old Quarter. Enjoy a classic Vietnamese street food tour or simply find a cozy spot to try Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles) and a refreshing Bia hơi (local draft beer). Don’t miss a Water Puppet Show—a traditional performance telling ancient folk tales.
Day 2: Hanoi’s Historical and Cultural Highlights
- Morning: Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s history. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, a place of great reverence, and explore the nearby One Pillar Pagoda and Temple of Literature & National University, Vietnam’s first national university.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a key landmark in the city’s heart. Walk across the stunning red Huc Bridge to explore Ngoc Son Temple.
- Evening: For dinner, try the famous Phở (beef noodle soup) or Bánh Mì, and finish with a strong Vietnamese Egg Coffee at a local café.
Day 3-4: Halong Bay Cruise – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Morning (Day 3): Depart from Hanoi early for a scenic 3-hour drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board your cruise ship.
- Afternoon (Day 3): Savor a delicious seafood lunch as your ship sails through thousands of breathtaking limestone karsts. Your activities will include kayaking or bamboo boat rides, exploring majestic caves, and swimming in the emerald waters.
- Evening (Day 3): Enjoy a gourmet dinner on board, try some squid fishing, or simply relax on the deck and watch the sunset. Overnight on the cruise.
- Morning (Day 4): Start your day early with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Indulge in a farewell brunch before you disembark and head back to Hanoi.
Day 5: The “Inland Halong Bay” – Ninh Binh
- Morning: Take a comfortable bus or private car from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a tranquil province known for its stunning natural beauty.
- Afternoon: Experience the iconic Tam Coc or Trang An boat tour, where local women row you through a labyrinth of rice paddies and caves.
- Evening: Settle into a homestay or hotel and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.
Day 6: Climbing to New Heights and a Night Train to Sapa
- Morning: Challenge yourself with a hike up Mua Cave (Hang Múa) for a panoramic, “dragon’s eye” view of the Tam Coc river winding through the mountains.
- Afternoon: Visit the ancient Hoa Lu temples or the massive Bai Dinh Pagoda.
- Evening: Travel back to Hanoi. Catch the overnight Lao Cai Express train to Sapa. Enjoy the unique experience of sleeping on a train and wake up surrounded by mountains.
Day 7-9: Sapa Trekking and Cultural Immersion
- Morning (Day 7): Arrive in Lao Cai and transfer to Sapa town. Check into your hotel and get ready for a day of trekking.
- Afternoon (Day 7): Begin your trek through the scenic valleys, passing through ethnic minority villages like Lao Chai and Ta Van. Stay in a traditional homestay to experience local life with the Hmong or Dao people.
- Day 8: Continue your trek through magnificent rice terraces, learn about local farming practices, and discover hidden waterfalls.
- Day 9: Explore more of the area, perhaps visiting the iconic Fansipan Mountain (by cable car for a breathtaking view) or Silver Waterfall. In the afternoon, return to Hanoi on a comfortable bus.
Day 10: Departure from Hanoi
- Morning: After arriving back in Hanoi, you’ll have some free time. Do some last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. You’ll leave with a camera full of memories and a heart full of new experiences.
Key Travel Tips and Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
- September to November & March to May: These are the ideal times. The weather is pleasant, and you can see the golden rice harvest in Sapa.
- June to August: Hot and humid, but lush green landscapes.
- December to February: Expect cold, foggy weather, particularly in the Sapa region.
How to Get Around
- Between Cities: You’ll use a combination of overnight trains, sleeper buses, and private transfers. Book these in advance, especially during peak season.
- Within Cities: Grab, Xanh SM (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber) is widely available for taxis and motorbikes. In the Old Quarter, consider walking or taking a cyclo ride for a classic experience.
Accommodation
- Hanoi: The Old Quarter is the best place to stay for its convenient location and lively atmosphere.
- Halong Bay: Choose a reputable cruise provider for a safe and comfortable experience.
- Sapa: A homestay is highly recommended for an authentic cultural exchange.
RELATED: How to Travel from Hanoi to Sapa by Train: Your Complete Guide
Estimated Budget
A 10-day trip can cost anywhere from $400 – $1,500+ per person, depending on your style of travel (budget, mid-range, or luxury). The biggest costs will be accommodation and the Halong Bay cruise.
This 10-day Northern Vietnam itinerary is more than just a trip—it’s an unforgettable adventure through breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the history of Hanoi to the tranquility of Halong Bay and the majestic mountains of Sapa, every day offers a new experience. We hope this guide helps you plan the perfect journey to the heart of Vietnam.
