Best Of Northern Vietnam 9 Days

As you step off the plane and into Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport, your journey into the heart of Vietnam begins. A warm and hospitable welcome awaits you, as our guide, bearing a sign adorned with the unmistakable Asia Tour Advisor logo and your name, greets you. From here, you will be seamlessly transported to the heart of downtown Hanoi.

During your transfer, your guide will offer you a delightful introduction to the city, setting the stage for your exploration. Keep an eye out for the ASIA TOUR ADVISOR LOGO signboard held by your driver, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to your destination.

With the day now yours to command, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating essence of Hanoi. The city is a harmonious blend of tree-lined boulevards, French Indochinese architecture, and tranquil lakes, each contributing to its unique allure.

Hanoi, Vietnam's resplendent capital, is home to seven million inhabitants. With its graceful French colonial architecture, shaded boulevards, picturesque lakes, and the bustling charm of the Old Quarter, Hanoi exudes an understated sophistication. While exploring the city, you'll witness locals practicing Tai Chi by the serene lake, and you'll find barbers and street food vendors engaged in their trade, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

The capital of Vietnam, a city with a history that celebrated its millennium in 2010, boasts a wealth of captivating cultural and historical sites. Today's tour will unveil the city's most notable highlights, granting you a glimpse into its rich heritage.

Begin your journey with a visit to the grand and solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an iconic structure (please note it is closed on Mondays and Fridays from October to November). Next, discover the famed One Pillar Pagoda, often considered the symbol of Hanoi. The serene Temple of Literature, nestled beside West Lake, along with Tran Quoc Temple and Quan Thanh Pagoda, each offers its own unique charm.

A visit to the bustling Old Quarter sets the scene for your exploration of Hanoi's vibrant streets. Finally, your day concludes with an enchanting water puppet performance, a cultural gem that promises to leave a lasting impression.

At approximately 9:00 AM, a private car and guide will arrive to embark on a picturesque journey to Mai Chau, a serene and beautiful valley that has long been home to various ethnic groups, including the Thai, Muong, Hmong, Tay, and Viet. Mai Chau provides the perfect sanctuary, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, tranquil villages, local lifestyles, and captivating cultures.

After a scenic 3.5-hour drive, you'll arrive in Mai Chau. Here, you'll savor a delightful lunch at a local eatery before checking in at your homestay.

In the afternoon, the choice is yours: embark on a leisurely walk or bicycle ride through the valley, passing by picturesque Thai ethnic villages, where you can witness their farming practices, observe their distinctive house styles, and even engage with the locals to gain fascinating insights into their unique cultures. Mai Ha village is one of the suggested destinations to explore, although your guide can customize the route to match your preferences.

As the day winds to a close, enjoy a hearty dinner and spend the night in a homestay, hosted by a local family in Mai Hich village.

Awaken to the gentle songs of roosters, the crisp mountain air, and breathtaking mountain vistas. After a nourishing breakfast, embark on a 2.5-hour trek through the valley, passing through various villages in Sam Khoe commune to further immerse yourself in local life.

You'll break for lunch with a local family in Buoc village before making your way to your charming lodge for check-in. Poom Coong or Lac Village are recommended stops for the afternoon, given their proximity to your lodging.

Enjoy a second tranquil night in the embrace of Mai Chau's natural beauty.

(Note: The choice of villages may vary based on current conditions.)

Perhaps you'll want to savor the tranquility of your lodge a bit longer. At around 9:00 AM, prepare to journey to the Pu Luong Nature Reserve in Ba Thuoc commune, Thanh Hoa province, a scenic drive that takes approximately 2 hours.

Upon arrival, if your room at Pu Luong Retreat is not yet available, you can store your luggage there. Then, embark on a gentle trek downhill into the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, visiting Don village along the way. Here, you'll witness captivating rice cultivation and observe local farming activities. Later, ascend to the mountain's peak for panoramic views that encompass the region's dotted villages. In the afternoon, return to your accommodation for check-in and relaxation.

(Note: Village choices may be adjusted based on current conditions.)

After a hearty breakfast, discuss your preferences with your guide and choose from a variety of magnificent trekking routes. These trails offer glimpses of extraordinary rice terraces, stunning hills and valleys, and captivating hamlets, providing insight into daily life. The trekking options range from easy strolls through nearby villages to more challenging hikes extending into more remote areas.

At the appropriate time, journey to Ninh Binh, where you'll check in to your hotel and enjoy leisurely free time.

(Note: The choice of villages may vary based on current conditions.)

After a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, your day unfolds with a visit to Ninh Binh's most iconic attractions. The itinerary is flexible, offering you the choice of exploring Hoa Lu, the ancient royal capital of Vietnam. You'll have the chance to visit the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, both dating back to the 10th century, and delve into the heroic histories of these two monarchs during the Chinese Wars.

Other attractions that might pique your interest include the magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda and a boat excursion on either Tam Coc, Trang An, or Van Long. Your guide will assist you in selecting the most appealing options based on your preferences.