How to Plan the Best North Vietnam Itinerary ?

For nature lovers, Northern Vietnam is where you can find the majestic mountains, ethnic hillside villages, and vibrant culture. You also find the off-the-beaten-path routes to breathtaking bays, and stunning rice fields. This North Vietnam travel guide will give you some ideas on the best time to visit, places to go in North Vietnam, what activities you can take as well as the tips to combine these destinations to make your most memorable trip in Northern Vietnam.

Keep reading to discover the way to perfectly plan your Northern Vietnam tour.

1. Best month to visit North Vietnam

The weather in North Vietnam varies from Delta to the Mountain. In general, the good time to visit North Vietnam is from September to November and from March to May when the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C. During these months, you can expect clear skies and a more comfortable climate for outdoor activities, compared to heat in the summer.

In contrast, the winter months from December to February can be very cold and damp, particularly in the mountainous regions, with temperatures dropping to below 10°C. The summer months from June to August are hot and humid, with frequent rain showers and the possibility of typhoons.

If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the beauty of the autumn foliage, September to November is an excellent time to visit. On the other hand, if you plan to trek in the mountains or visit the hill tribes, March to May offers the best weather conditions.

2. Best places to visit in North Vietnam

All of these destinations offer unique experiences and attractions that make them worth visiting. If you're interested in exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Vietnam, these places are definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, which is a cultural and historical hub that offers visitors a glimpse of Vietnam's rich heritage. The city is the starting point of many travel itineraries to the North of Vietnam. You can spend 1 day and 1 night or more staying in Hanoi.
Find out more information about Hanoi attractions:

• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Temple of Literature and Imperial Academy
• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
• Museums in Hanoi

Halong Bay

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and picturesque fishing villages. A cruise on a traditional junk boat is the best way to explore this natural wonder. Junk boat allows you to explore the bay with some fixed itineraries. You can spend 1 day to 3 days on a Halong Bay cruise, so it is important to choose the right cruise operator.
Find out more about some Halong Bay cruise operators.

• Bhaya Legend Cruise
• Le Theatre Cruise
• Scarlett Pearl Cruise

Lan Ha Bay

From Hanoi with only a 2-hour drive, Lan Ha Bay is one of the must see destinations in North Vietnam. Located adjacent to Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay offers visitors a quieter and less crowded alternative to the popular tourist destination. The bay is known for its clear blue waters, stunning limestone cliffs, and unique floating fishing villages. If you would like an off-the-beaten-path destination, why not add Lan Ha Bay to your itinerary.
Find out more about some Lan Ha Bay cruise operators.

• Orchid Cruise
• Peony Cruise
• Sealife Legend Cruise
• Cat Ba Ocean Cruise (private boat)

Ninh Binh

Many people refer to Ninh Binh as "Halong Bay on land" due to its towering limestone karsts and rice paddies. The landscape in Ninh Binh is so peaceful that you should spend a day and an overnight at a local host’s house. Not only mesmerising natural views like Trang An, Tam Coc, Hang Mua, visitors can find multiple rich-cultural historic sites such as Thai Vi temple, Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh pagoda,...
Find out more about some What to see and do in Ninh Binh.

• Natural beauty spots
• Cultural, historical sites

Sapa

Located west-north of Hanoi with a 5.5-hour drive, Sapa is home to ethnic minority communities who still practise their traditional way of life. Trekking through the terraced rice paddies and visiting local markets is a must-do. In the town of Sapa, you may expect many tourists and sometimes children selling souvenirs follow you. This is normal so do not get confused. Just spend a night in town if possible, and spend the rest of your excursion discovering off-the-beaten-path villages. 
Find out more about top Sapa tourist attractions:

• Sapa waterfalls
• Muong Hoa valley
• Cat Cat village
• Fansipan mountain
• Bac Ha ethnic market

Mu Cang Chai

If you see the picture above so familiar, it is understandable because Mu Cang Chai’s terraced rice fields have appeared in several world magazines like Condé Nast Traveler, . Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mu Cang Chai terraced rice fields create a stunning landscape of rolling hills that change colour with the seasons. The yellow season in Mu Cang Chai falls in September and October, while the flooding season is in May and June. These are the season for photo hunters, however, you still can see the beauty of rice terraces at other times of year.

Ha Giang

Ha Giang, the mountainous province, lies to the far northern point of the country. It is home to the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark and many remote towns and minority villages. The landscape is breathtaking, with steep mountains, winding roads, and remote hill tribe villages. If you visit Ha Giang, do not miss Ha Giang loops which lead you through the most scenic spots in the area. These are experienced best on a two-wheel road trip, and on a four-wheel vehicle, you still enjoy soaking up these majestic views and breathing in the fresh atmosphere.

Mai Chau

This scenic valley is home to several ethnic minority communities like Thai people, Muong people,... known for their traditional stilt houses and weaving skills. The valley is surrounded by lush greenery and rice paddies, making it a popular spot for trekking and cycling. The proximity to the Hanoi capital makes it an ideal escape for anyone. Spending a night or two in a simple stilt house is a must-do, when you can immerse yourself in the rural Vietnamese culture, taste the delicious home-cooked food. It is also a pleasure to cycle through the rice paddies surrounding humble villages.

Find out more about what to see and do in Mai Chau.

Pu Luong

Located between Mai Chau and Ninh Binh, Pu Luong is a hidden gem that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the Vietnamese countryside. The region is known for its picturesque rice terraces, bamboo forests, and traditional stilt houses. Visit Pu Luong, you also can learn about the traditional culture of ethnic minority of Thai and Muong people. Because of similar natural beauty, many people consider choosing between Sapa and Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

Find out more about the difference between Sapa and Pu Luong.

Cao Bang

Tucked away in the Northeast of Vietnam, Cao Bang is home to some of the country's most stunning natural landscapes. The destination’s exceptional diversity makes it a spectacular place for adventurous journeys. Highlights of Cao Bang that you shouldn’t miss are the Ban Gioc Waterfall, the Nguom Ngao Cave, and the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Global Geopark. The trip to Cao Bang within a day is really tiring, so you should spend at least 2 days or combine with an excursion to Ha Giang.

3. How long to spend in Northern Vietnam?

As you see there are many things to do in this region, we can spend around 2 weeks to experience all the beauty. However, given the factors of considerable time, weather, your partners and your travel styles, you can spend from 5 days to 2 weeks exploring North Vietnam. For a shorter time, you should focus on the destinations closer to Hanoi like Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and Mai Chau. Then you can extend to further places like Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Mu Cang Chai if you have additional days.

These journeys can be taken by motorbike or car, both of which turn out to be fantastic experiences. You can base on these suggestions to customise your own schedule. Below is the Vietnam tourist map for various trip lengths, and you can save it to make it come true.

3.1. Northern Vietnam travel Itinerary in 2 weeks

This route allows you to take the journey of a lifetime from West to East of Vietnam. Take a scenic drive to encounter diverse ethnic groups in quaint villages on hidden hills. Witness the beauty of the famous terraced rice fields in Mu Cang Chai, Sapa and experience the majesty of the Dong Van karst plateau. Take an excursion by cruise on the spectacular Ha Long Bay... This is an ideal package tour for travellers who love to discover isolated mountains and interact with cultural minorities, also very suitable for photographers.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, take a walking tour

Day 2: Discover the Hanoi attractions, watch water puppet show

Day 3: Visit Nghia Lo from Hanoi: tea plantation, ethnic groups’ villages

Day 4: Immerse into nature of Mu Cang Chai

Day 5: Trek easy routes in Na Tam, visit Laotian & Lu people’s villages in Mu Cang Chai

Day 6: Visit Lao Chai - Ta Van villages in Sapa

Day 7: Explore Bac Ha region and a typical mountain market

Day 8: Discover authentic features, trek via Me – Lup – Tha villages

Day 9: Full day discovery of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, Twin Fairy mountain, traditional house of Hmong & Bo Y ethnic people, H'mong King’s Palace

Day 10: Cross spectacular Ma Pi Leng pass to Bao Lac, visit to villages of Lo Lo & H’mong people

Day 11: Meet San Chi ethnic people in hill villages, transfer to Ba Be, explore Hua Ma cave

Day 12: Take a relaxing boat trip, admire the wilderness, Puong cave, Dau Dang waterfall

Day 13: Transfer to Bai Tu Long bay, swimming & sunbathing at Ban Chan beach

Day 14: Discover the charming Thien Canh Son Cave, unique cruising route, get back Hanoi for departure

>>  Check real time price of 2-week Vietnam tour

3.2. North Vietnam Itinerary in 10 days

Ten days are not too short or too long to discover the Northern region of Vietnam. From the hearty Hanoi, you can make your route direction to the Northeast, Northwest or South of Hanoi.

• North Vietnam Itinerary in 10 days including Mai Chau and Pu Luong

This package tour is specifically crafted to show you the best of the North’s beauty. Start from the historical Hanoi capital then discover the beautiful and exotic cultures of the North with an overnight in Mai Chau. Trek through the rolling countryside and immerse yourself in the wonders of the Pu Luong nature reserve. Stay 2 nights in Ninh Binh and explore the Van Long preservation zone as well as the majestic Cuc Phuong National park. End the trip with a relaxing cruise sailing amongst thousands of limestone islands jutting out of the blue water of Halong Bay.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Day 2: Discover the Hanoi attractions on a city tour, watch water puppet show

Day 3: Immerse into gorgeous nature of Mai Chau by easily trekking

Day 4: Mai Chau to Pu Luong

Day 5: Full day trek through ethnic group’s villages

Day 6: Visit beautiful rice terraces, a fish stream

Day 7: Explore the diversity of nature, trek in national park, visit Endangered Primate & Turtle Rescue Centre

Day 8: Cycle & take boat trip in Van Long nature reserve

Day 9: Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay, admire the wonderful seascape, swim in the less touched area of Lan Ha Bay

Day 10: Relax on Lan Ha Bay cruise then prepare for departure

>> Check the real time price of a 10-day Vietnam tour including Mai Chau and Pu Luong.

• North Vietnam Itinerary in 9 days including Ha Giang

With this tour, you will discover the highlights of North – East Vietnam. This package gives you an opportunity to discover the hidden landscapes of Northern Vietnam on the off-the-beaten paths. Start from the historical Hanoi capital, take a drive through spectacular sceneries with visits to traditional markets and remote mountain tribes. Interact with villagers and experience the region's unique culture. Finish the trip with a relaxing cruise on Bai Tu Long Bay. This tour is designed for those who love nature, culture and less touristy sightseeings.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Day 2: Discover the Hanoi attractions on a city tour, watch water puppet show

Day 3: Drive on a scenic route, trek via Me – Lup – Tha villages in Ha Giang

Day 4: Visit Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, Twin Fairy mountain, traditional house of Hmong & Bo Y ethnic people, H'mong King’s Palace

Day 5: Cross spectacular Ma Pi Leng pass to Bao Lac, visit to villages of Lo Lo & H’mong people

Day 6: Meeting San Chi ethnic people in hill villages, transfer to Ba Be, exploring Hua Ma cave

Day 7: Take relaxing boat trip to explore Puong Cave, Dau Dang waterfall

Day 8: Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay, admire the wonderful seascape, swim and sunbathe on a white sand beach

Day 9: Relax on Bai Tu Bay cruise then prepare for departure

>> Check the real time price of a 9-day Vietnam tour including Ha Giang.

• North Vietnam Itinerary in 9 days including Mu Cang Chai and Sapa

Starting from Hanoi, you will travel through Northwest Vietnam and its breathtaking mountain landscapes and colourful dress of the local hill tribes. This itinerary takes you on a tour through enchanting, gaping valleys and towering mountains to remote hill tribe villages. Visit cascading waterfalls and typical mountain markets. Finish the trip relaxing on a cruise sailing on Halong Bay with thousands of towering limestone mountains out of the blue water.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Day 2: Discover the Hanoi attractions on a city tour, watch water puppet show

Day 3: Visit Nghia Lo from Hanoi: tea plantation, ethnic groups’ villages

Day 4: Immerse into mesmerising nature of Mu Cang Chai

Day 5: Trek easy routes in Na Tam, visit Laotian & Lu people’s villages in Mu Cang Chai

Day 6: Visit Lao Chai - Ta Van villages in Sapa

Day 7: Explore Bac Ha region and a typical mountain market

Day 8: Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay, admire the wonderful seascape, swim and sunbathe on less touristy area

Day 9: Relax on Lan Ha Bay cruise then prepare for departure

>> Check the real time price of a 9-day Vietnam tour including Mu Cang Chai and Sapa

3.3. North Vietnam Itinerary in 7 days

• Highlight of the North Vietnam Package Tour in 7 days

The "Highlight of the North" package tour for families is a fantastic option for those looking to experience the best of Northern Vietnam in a hassle-free and enjoyable way. The tour includes visits to popular destinations such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, as well as some lesser-known but equally stunning locations like Mai Chau and Ninh Binh. In each location, you will have the opportunity to experience the local culture, sample delicious food, and explore the natural beauty of the area.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Day 2: Discover the Hanoi attractions on a city tour, watch water puppet show

Day 3: Immerse into gorgeous nature of Mai Chau by easily trekking

Day 4: From Mai Chau to Ninh Binh, optional bike or walk to discover the region

Day 5: Visit the highlights of Ninh Binh including Tam Coc, Bich Dong, King temples

Day 6: Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay cruise to visit some caves, karst mountains and beaches

Day 7: Leisure on Lan Ha Bay cruise and prepare for departure

>> Check the real time price of Highlight of the North Vietnam Package Tour in 7 days

• Authentic North Vietnam Itinerary in 7 days

This tour takes you through some of the most popular destinations in the region, each with its own unique charm and character. Starting in Hanoi, the tour includes visits to famous landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hanoi Old Quarter. From there, you will journey to Sapa, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains that is famous for its trekking opportunities and stunning rice terraces. Ninh Binh is the next destination before you disembark on a cruise sailing in legendary Lan Ha Bay.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Day 2: Discover the Hanoi attractions on a city tour, watch water puppet show

Day 3: From Hanoi to Sapa, admire the beautiful valley of Y Linh Ho, ethnic villages

Day 4: Admire the beautiful landscape in Ma Tra, Ta Phin villages

Day 5: From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, bike in Thung La and Van Long Nature Reserve

Day 6: Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay cruise to visit some caves, karst mountains and beaches

Day 7: Leisure on Lan Ha Bay cruise and prepare for departure

>> Check the real time price of Authentic North Vietnam Itinerary in 7 days

3.4. The 5-day North Vietnam itinerary

Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to experience the local culture, sample delicious food, and interact with friendly locals. The detailed itinerary is well-organised and includes all necessary attractions. This tour will be best to be accompanied by a knowledgeable tourist guide, who will help you navigate each destination and provide insight into the local history and culture.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Day 2: Discover the Hanoi attractions on a city tour, watch a water puppet show

Day 4: From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, bike in Thung La and Van Long Nature Reserve

Day 5: Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay cruise to visit some caves, karst mountains and beaches

Day 6: Leisure on Lan Ha Bay cruise and prepare for departure

>> Check the real-time price of a 5-day North Vietnam itinerary

Conclusion

Planning a North Vietnam itinerary can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By taking the time to research your options, create a balanced itinerary that includes a mix of must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-path destinations, and allow for some flexibility in your plans, you can ensure that you have the trip of a lifetime in North Vietnam. Whether you're interested in trekking through the mountains or simply immersing yourself in the local culture, this region of Asia is truly a treasure of excitement to discover. Hopefully, this North Vietnam travel guide will inspire you to start your North Vietnam tour soon.