Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey through Northern Vietnam, where you will explore the dynamic cultural heritage of Hanoi, immerse yourself in the rich ethnic traditions of Sapa, and cruise through the breathtaking emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. This meticulously crafted itinerary seamlessly integrates cultural exploration with stunning natural landscapes, ensuring a deeply immersive and memorable travel experience.
Landing at the Noi Bai airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy 45-minute driving to the city center (Hanoi Old Quarter) with city's briefing information about the most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine....Arrive in your hotel, check in and have a rest.
Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00
Get pick up by tour guide to the 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.
In the afternoon, you visit the 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.
Exploring the Hanoi Old Quarter which was built in the 15th century as a trading center in the capital city with 36 streets of different products. Despite the changes, the Old Quarter is always considered a live city museum. The unique tube houses, small alleys, temples, open door markets and street vendor foods come together in a beautiful harmony. Discovering the town by walking is the best way to stimulate all your senses.
Get a pick up by tour guide and driver for a journey from Hanoi to Sapa. The drive on new highway offers beautiful views of rural countryside, mountain and Red River.
Pick up at your hotel (in the Hanoi Old Quarter). Enjoy 3-hour drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Your journey will pass the series of villages and rice fields in Red River Delta. Have a stop for drink and restroom. Continue your driving, arrive at the harbor around noon, get warmly welcomed at reception.
8:15 AM: Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter (for private transfers) or at the cruise waiting lounge (for shared transfers). Depart for Halong bay. The journey to Halong Bay takes around 2.5 - 3 hours. We'll have a quick pit stop for refreshments along the way (about 20 minutes).
11:30 – 11:45 AM: Arrive at Halong harbor, Halong City. You'll receive a warm welcome at our Essence Grand Cruise Yacht waiting lounge by our friendly staff.
12:00 – 12:15 PM: Hop on board our Essence Grand Superyacht, grab a welcome drink at Cloud Nine restaurant during the cruise briefing, and settle into your super spacious suite.
1:00 PM: Lunchtime at Cloud Nine restaurant as we cruise among thousands of islands and islets of stunning Halong Bay.
2:30 – 3:15 PM: Let's check out Luon Cave, a hidden lagoon perfect for kayaking or leisurely paddling in a bamboo boat. Witness the incredible karst formations up close.
3:30 – 4:30 PM: Off to Titop Island known for its gorgeous crescent moon-shaped beach and breathtaking views of Halong Bay from the peak, reached by climbing 400 steep steps.
2:30 – 5:30 PM: Stay on board, relax in your comfy suite, or dive into various onboard services and activities like La Spa (spa and massage), swimming pool, pool bar, cigar club, poker, 3D golf simulator, billiards, table soccer, library, and a kid’s club.
5:30 PM: Don't miss the stunning Halong Bay sunset at our Lighthouse Sky Bar with cocktails and a cooking demonstration amidst the dramatic limestone peaks and emerald-green coves.
7:00 PM: Indulge in a mix of Western and Vietnamese cuisine. After dinner, chill in your suite, pamper yourself at La Spa, try some squid fishing, or hang out at the poker club, cigar club, karaoke club, Sky bar, or the Pool bar.
Spend the night on Essence Grand Cruise – Superyacht.
5:30 – 6:00 AM: Experience the sunrise over Halong Bay.
6:15 AM: Start the day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, a workout in the gym, or simply sleep in.
6:45 AM: Enjoy a light breakfast at Cloud Nine restaurant.
7:30 – 8:15 AM: Our speed boat will take you to Sung Sot Cave – the biggest and most stunning cave in Halong Bay.
9:00 AM: After exploring the cave, return to Essence Grand Superyacht to pack your bags and check out.
9:30 AM: Cruise back through the bay to Ha Long harbor while enjoying a delicious morning brunch.
10:45 AM: Say your goodbyes and head back to the harbor.
11:00 AM: Once back on land, our driver will pick you up again at the port and bring you back to Hanoi. Expected arrival back in Hanoi around 2:30-2:45 PM.
Welcome by driver at the harbor then enjoy travel back to Hanoi. Have a rest at the middle of the way. Drop off at your hotel (in the Hanoi Old Quarter).
Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) for about 45 minutes to Noi Bai airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city.
Note: International flights require you to be at the airport 3 hours and domestic is 2 hours before departure time.