5-Day Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Northern Vietnam Itinerary

Embark on a full-day trip to the stunning From Hanoi Ninh Binh, Trang An, Bai Dinh, and Mua Cave Trip. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, take a boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, visit the Bai Dinh Pagoda, and hike up to the Mua Caves for panoramic views. Enjoy a packed lunch with local specialties during the tour.

After returning to Hanoi, relax and unwind at the peaceful Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, situated on the West Lake. Then, indulge in a delightful dinner at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist.

Take a leisurely walk around the West Lake area, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the local lifestyle. If you're up for a nightcap, head to one of the lakeside bars for a drink with a view.

Begin your Sa Pa adventure with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, enjoying the fresh mountain air. Then, set out to explore the terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages on a From Hanoi 2-Day Sa Pa Ethnic Homestay Tour with Trekking. Learn about the traditional customs and daily life of the local hill tribes as you trek through the breathtaking landscapes.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery, and continue your trek to visit more remote villages. Immerse yourself in the unique culture and interact with the friendly locals. As the afternoon winds down, return to your homestay for a rest and to freshen up.

Share a communal dinner with your host family, tasting traditional Sa Pa dishes and exchanging stories. After dinner, take in the starry night sky and the peaceful ambiance of the mountains before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Cat Ba Island, part of the stunning Cat Ba Archipelago. Explore the island's lush landscapes, hidden coves, and pristine beaches. You can also opt for a guided kayaking tour to discover the karst formations and floating villages.

Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant on Cat Ba Island, savoring the fresh catch of the day. Afterward, take a boat to the otherworldly Lan Ha Bay, a less-visited gem with crystal-clear waters and towering limestone islets. Spend the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the boat deck.

Return to Hai Phong and unwind with a leisurely walk along the Hai Phong Promenade (Bai Chay Beach). As the sun sets, enjoy the sea breeze and the vibrant colors reflecting off the water. For dinner, indulge in the local specialty, Cha Ca Thang Long, a delicious fish dish with a unique preparation.

Explore the ancient capital of Vietnam at Hoa Lu, visiting the historic temples and learning about the country's royal past. Then, take a sampan boat ride through the mystical karst formations of the Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land." Marvel at the natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere as you glide through the waterways.

Enjoy a leisurely cycling tour through the picturesque countryside, passing by rice fields, limestone mountains, and rural villages. Stop for a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, refueling for the rest of your day's adventures. After lunch, visit the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Conclude your Ninh Binh experience with a visit to the serene Tam Coc, also known as the "Halong Bay on land." Take a boat ride along the winding river, passing through three natural caves and soaking in the majestic karst scenery. As the day winds down, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and delectable dishes.