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Wonderful Holidays

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This short but immersive itinerary combines the rich cultural heritage of Hanoi with the stunning natural beauty of Halong Bay. Spend two days exploring Hanoi’s historic sites, vibrant Old Quarter, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Then, retreat to Halong Bay for an unforgettable overnight cruise, where you’ll marvel at limestone karsts, explore caves, and enjoy activities like kayaking and sunset viewing.
It’s the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation in northern Vietnam.
Included/Excluded
Hanoi, located on the banks of the Red River, is one of the most ancient capitals in the world. Visitors can find well-preserved colonial buildings, ancient pagodas, temples, and unique museums within the city center.
Have breakfast at the hotel & be ready for the trip in the lobby
Our guide will pick you up at the hotel between 08:05 am and 08.10 am
08h30: Arrive at Tran Quoc Pagoda – the oldest pagoda in Ha Noi built in the 6th century.
09h00 – 9h15: Visit Ho Chi Minh complex, you have a chance to see the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh then walk around the garden to see 2 houses where he lived & worked from 1954 to 1969. Then visit One Pillar Pagoda which worships the Goddess of Mercy – It is the most unique pagoda in the world.
10h30-11h00: Visit one of 2 options below
Option 1: Visit Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the culture of 54 ethnic groups living in Vietnam (Tuesdays-Thursdays-Saturdays & Sundays)
Option 2: Visit Bat Trang ceramic village where we can explore the daily life of the locals & learn about the process of how to make a perfect product (on Mondays-Wednesdays – Fridays)
12h30: Have lunch at our restaurant. You have an opportunity to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine with 8 delicious dishes.
13h30 – 13h45: Continue visiting the Temple of Literature – the first university of Vietnam, established in the 11th century.
15h45: Leave for Hoan Kiem Lake to visit Ngoc Son Temple, which honors General Tran Hung Dao who defeated the invader in the 13th century.
16h15: Tour finishes. Back to the hotel
8h30: After breakfast, our driver (no guide) will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Ha Long.
Our trip follows Hanoi – Haiphong – Tuan Chau Highway (about 3 hours of driving)
12h00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor, and get on the cruise with a warm welcome from the crew.
Enjoy a welcome drink then start the excursion to discover the beauty of the world heritage site.
12h30: Lunch time. While having lunch, the boat will pass by the scenery on both sides with thousands of limestones such as Fighting Chicken and Incense Burner Islets – 2 symbols of Ha Long Bay.
14h00: Arrive at Bo Hon Island, and visit Sung Sot cave – the most beautiful cave with many stalagmites and stalactites.
14h45: Do kayaking or a bamboo boat through Luon cave to discover the beautiful lagoon.
15h15: Visit Ti Top Island with its sandy beach. You can go swimming here or trek up the top of the island for sightseeing all over Ha Long Bay.
17h45: Arrive back at the Harbor. Get on the bus and return to your hotel in Hanoi.
Terms And Conditions
* The tour won’t be confirmed until 50% of the tour’s total cost is paid at the moment of confirmation
* Deposit paid by credit card online link will be charged 3.3%, which is the third party (OnePay Vietnam) regulations
Cancellation And Refund Policies
Count on the deposit amount and clients will pay the transaction fee
* Airfare is NOT refundable
* Cancellation within 21 days notice will be 100% refunded
* Cancellation with 14-20 days notice will be 75% refunded
* Cancellation with 7–13 days notice will be 50% refunded
* Cancellation with 6 days notice will be 0% refunded
* Cancellations due to subjective conditions such as typhoons, earthquake terrorism, or pandemics will be 100% refunded or discussed in a more beneficial way for guests
* When cancellation is a must for tourists, such as when family members pass away or the flight is canceled or delayed, we will base it on reality to help our guests lose as little as possible from our honesty
Discover the essence of Northern Vietnam in one perfectly balanced short break. Beautiful Northern Highlight 4 Days 3 Nights blends the soulful history of Hanoi with the cinematic seascapes of Halong Bay, giving you culture, light adventure, and genuine relaxation—without wasting a minute of your holiday. You’ll have guided city discovery, a scenic Halong day cruise, and the confidence that every transfer and timing is handled for you.
As your local expert, Asian Link Travel curates trusted hotels, comfortable transport, and friendly English-speaking guides. From airport welcome to farewell, we keep the logistics seamless so you can focus on tasting, seeing, and feeling Northern Vietnam at its best.
Northern Vietnam rewards the curious traveler with contrasts: Hanoi’s Old Quarter hums with timeless craft streets, while jade-green Halong waters cradle thousands of limestone peaks. This itinerary gives you two days to settle into Hanoi’s rhythm and one immersive day at sea, carefully paced so you never feel rushed yet still see the essentials. It’s ideal for first-timers, couples, families, or anyone with limited time.
This program prioritizes your time and comfort. Rather than cramming a bucket list into a blur, we design each day around shorter hops and meaningful stops, so your memories feel vivid—not hurried. You’ll gain context for what you’re seeing, thanks to our personable guides who connect the dots between history, daily life, and modern Vietnam. The Halong day cruise delivers postcard views, a gentle taste of exploration, and golden-hour light—without needing to repack for an overnight on the bay.
If you want the classic highlights in a compact window, this is your match. First-time visitors get clarity and confidence; couples enjoy stress-free logistics with plenty of shared moments; families appreciate flexible pacing and central hotel locations; and solo travelers value a sociable, small-group format with the option to add privacy upgrades. Anyone balancing work trips with a mini-break will also love how effortlessly this itinerary fits a busy schedule.
Across four days and three nights, you’ll base yourself in Hanoi for two full days of cultural immersion, then head out to Halong Bay for a full day cruise. Expect small-group touring for discovery, air-conditioned vehicles for comfort, and thoughtfully chosen meal inclusions (B/L as specified). The style is relaxed yet efficient: just enough structure to keep things smooth, with pockets of free time to sip coffee, explore a lane, or linger over a lakeside sunset.
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This day-by-day outline shows how we balance curated experiences with breathing room. Meal codes appear as (B/L/D). Group touring increases value and connection, while private upgrades remain available on request.
Welcome to Vietnam! On arrival, our representative greets you and escorts you to your hotel in the city center. After check-in, shake off the flight with a gentle wander: perhaps Hoan Kiem Lake at dusk, the Old Quarter’s lantern-lit lanes, or a casual café to sample your first Vietnamese coffee. Prefer guidance? Ask us for easy, walkable suggestions near your hotel. We’re on hand 24/7 should you need assistance, directions, or dinner ideas.
After breakfast, join your guide for a captivating introduction to the capital. Trace Vietnam’s narrative through emblematic landmarks and atmospheric neighborhoods: serene pagodas, leafy boulevards, and the labyrinthine Old Quarter where guild streets still whisper their craft legacies. Expect thoughtful commentary, short walks, and a local lunch that showcases Hanoi flavors. The pace is comfortable, with time for photos and questions. Return to your hotel mid-afternoon with evening free for independent dining.
Set out early for legendary Halong Bay. After a scenic drive, board your shared boat for a day cruise across emerald waters stippled with towering karsts. Glide past floating villages, step into a dramatic limestone cave, and—weather permitting—opt for gentle kayaking or a short bamboo boat ride to view hidden inlets. A fresh on-board lunch is included. The afternoon light turns the cliffs to gold; by early evening you’ll be back in Hanoi, content and camera-happy.
Enjoy a slow breakfast and a final stroll for last-minute souvenirs or a lakeside coffee. Depending on your flight time, we can help arrange a smooth transfer back to the airport. Not ready to leave? Ask about adding a night in Hanoi, a day in Ninh Binh, or rail up to Sapa for cool-mountain air. Whether you head home or continue onward, we’ll ensure your farewell is as effortless as your arrival.
We believe clarity builds trust. Below is a transparent summary of what’s covered in your program and what remains flexible by design, so you can tailor the experience to your preferences and budget.
Your tour includes comfortable accommodation in Hanoi with daily breakfast, guided small-group touring on Day 2 and the Halong Bay day cruise on Day 3, lunch on touring days as listed, and all scheduled ground transport in air-conditioned vehicles. You’ll be accompanied by English-speaking guides during touring, and we provide bottled water on travel days. Our team supports you throughout—from arrival assistance to departure coordination—so you can simply enjoy the journey.
International and domestic flights, entry visas (if applicable), personal expenses, dinners, beverages beyond water, and travel insurance are not included, giving you the freedom to choose airlines, dining style, and coverage that suit you best. Gratuities for guides and drivers are appreciated but discretionary. Optional activities like evening shows, private vehicles, or premium cruise upgrades are available on request and priced according to your travel dates and preferences.
Many travelers enhance this itinerary with simple upgrades. Consider private airport transfers, a romantic dinner reservation, or a street-food tasting tour in the Old Quarter. On the bay, upgrade to a premium boat or add kayaking time where conditions allow. If you’re extending, we can fold in a Ninh Binh countryside day (boats among rice fields and limestone), a Sapa overnight for mountain scenery, or extra nights in Hanoi for deeper cultural browsing.
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Comfort and safety come first. We partner with vetted hotels, experienced drivers, and licensed boats that meet local standards—so you can rest well, ride securely, and cruise with confidence.
Our preferred hotels sit in central districts for convenient dining and easy walks to must-see areas. Rooms are tidy and climate-controlled, with the thoughtful touches you need after active days: solid showers, reliable Wi-Fi, and satisfying breakfasts. Families can request connecting rooms or triple setups; early check-in/late check-out is subject to availability. If you favor boutique charm or larger international brands, tell us your style and we’ll match the stay to your taste.
Your day boat is licensed and maintained, operating tried-and-true routes that maximize scenery while managing crowds. Expect safety briefings, lifejackets, and clean facilities. The captain times stops for cave visits and photo vantage points, and staff handle lunch service with efficient care. Sun decks offer open-air views; indoor cabins provide shade and rest. If you seek an elevated feel, we can switch to a premium vessel or extend to an overnight cruise on request.
Road transfers use air-conditioned vehicles sized to your group, with seatbelts, scheduled rest stops, and bottled water. Our drivers are punctual and route-savvy, balancing comfort with timely arrivals. Group touring keeps costs sensible and social; private vehicles reward you with flexibility for photo breaks and pacing. Either way, we plan realistic drive times and pick-ups that align with your energy levels, ensuring each day starts calm—not rushed.
This itinerary stitches together the moods and textures that make the North unforgettable—intimate city moments, luminous waters, and honest food.
Hanoi invites you to slow down and look closely. In the Old Quarter, narrow houses and signboards hint at craft guilds that once shaped street identities. Around Hoan Kiem Lake, locals practice tai chi at dawn while cafés clink with glasses of iced coffee. Pagodas and temples offer cool stone, incense curls, and quiet courtyards—a pause from the bustle. Your guide weaves stories that turn these scenes into a living album you’ll carry home.
Halong’s drama is elemental: wind-carved peaks marching into the horizon, cliffs mirrored in glassy jade water. On your day cruise you’ll slip between islands, step into a stalactite-hung chamber, and watch sunlight tilt from silver to amber. Optional gentle kayaking (conditions permitting) adds a closer feel for quiet coves. Even without an overnight, the bay’s scale and shifting light imprint themselves—majestic, serene, and exactly as your imagination hoped.
Food is the friendliest doorway into local life. Expect broths that steam with star anise, grilled pork brightened by herbs, and rice that carries the fragrance of the countryside. Your included lunches are thoughtfully chosen to be tasty and traveler-friendly, while dinners are your chance to roam—from family-run eateries to polished restaurants with a view. Vegetarians and other diets are welcome; let us know in advance so we can smooth the way.
Northern Vietnam is a year-round destination, but seasons subtly shape your experience—temperature, light, and even the color of the rice fields all shift through the calendar.
Autumn (roughly September–November) and spring (March–April) are beloved for comfortable temperatures and pleasant air. Summer brings warmth and the possibility of quick showers that rinse the streets and freshen the air before the sun returns. Winter is cooler, moody, and romantic—sweater weather that suits old architecture and lake walks. Whatever the season, we tailor pacing, pick-ups, and packing tips so you’re prepared and comfortable.
Traveling in peak months can mean livelier crowds at top sights and popular piers. Off-peak days trade a little weather unpredictability for fewer people and potentially gentler pricing. On the bay, mist can sometimes soften visibility into a cinematic haze—a different kind of beauty, especially for photographers who enjoy atmosphere. We’ll advise date-by-date nuances when you inquire, matching expectations with the real rhythm of the destination.
Holiday periods infuse the city with ceremony and cheer, but they also affect traffic and availability. If your dates coincide with major festivals, booking early ensures smooth logistics and the best choice of hotel categories and boats. We keep an eye on calendars and community events and will flag anything that could impact your touring—then adjust pick-ups, dining suggestions, and pacing so you enjoy the energy without the stress.
Matching the right traveler to the right itinerary is our specialty. Here’s who tends to love this program most—and why.
If Northern Vietnam is new to you, this itinerary serves as a welcoming handshake. A compact plan removes guesswork while leaving room for personal discovery. We take care of hotel selection, sightseeing routes, and transfers; you wander, taste, and learn. The result is confidence and clarity: you’ll depart with a genuine feel for Hanoi and an iconic day on Halong, setting the stage for future, deeper adventures.
Traveling together is easier when the plan is already thoughtful. Couples appreciate the romance of lakeside walks and sunset on the bay; families value flexible pacing, central hotels, and the convenience of group touring with room to personalize evenings. We can arrange adjoining rooms, child-friendly dining, and little touches—from car seats to earlier pick-ups—that transform a good holiday into a great one for everyone.
The small-group format offers instant companions for the day while preserving privacy in the evenings. Solo travelers enjoy the security and social ease; friends traveling together like the budget-friendly structure, adding private elements where it matters most. Whether you’re swapping stories on deck or slipping away for a quiet coffee in Hanoi, you’ll find the balance between connection and independence.
A few smart preparations go a long way. We’ll share specific tips once your dates are set, but here are the essentials to consider now.
Comfortable walking shoes, breathable layers, and a light rain jacket suit most months. Bring sun protection for the bay—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—and a compact daypack for camera, water, and souvenirs. Power in Vietnam typically uses Type A/C/F plugs at 220V; a universal adapter is wise. Pack any personal medications in original packaging and keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original.
Entry requirements vary by nationality and can change, so please check official guidance for the latest visa rules that apply to your passport. If an e-visa is available to you, apply ahead of travel to avoid airport delays. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended; choose a policy that covers medical care, trip interruption, and activity elements like boat excursions. Share your policy details with a trusted contact before departure.
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong (VND). ATMs are common in Hanoi and cards are widely accepted in hotels and many restaurants, though small vendors prefer cash. For connectivity, consider an eSIM or local SIM for affordable data. Hanoi is generally safe; as in any city, keep valuables discreet and be mindful in crowded areas. On the water, follow crew instructions and wear lifejackets when kayaking or boarding smaller craft.
These are the questions we hear most often. If yours isn’t here, just ask.
Kayaking is often available as an optional, weather-dependent add-on managed by the boat operator at designated areas. If conditions are calm and schedules align, you can paddle among sheltered coves for a fresh perspective on the karsts. Non-kayakers can relax on deck or take a short bamboo boat ride when offered. We’ll advise the best choice on the day, balancing safety, comfort, and your interests.
Absolutely. A popular extension adds a Ninh Binh day to weave river caves and rice-field scenery into your journey, or you can add an extra night in Hanoi for more museums, cafés, and markets. We can also re-cast the Halong portion as an overnight cruise for slower rhythms and sunrise on the water. Extensions affect pricing and timing; we’ll tailor proposals quickly once you share your wish list.
Safety comes first on both road and water. If conditions prompt authorities or operators to alter routes or timings, we coordinate alternatives—adjusting the cruise schedule, modifying sightseeing, or shifting the order of activities. We keep you informed and, if a service cannot operate, we apply partner policies regarding refunds or credits diligently on your behalf. Your comfort and clarity remain our priority.
Yes—with thoughtful pacing and a few sensible adjustments. City touring involves short walks with frequent pauses and shaded stops. On the bay, steps into caves may be uneven; those who prefer can enjoy the scenery from the boat. We’re happy to arrange child seats, suggest family-friendly restaurants, and advise on mobility considerations. Share any needs in advance so we can fine-tune comfort for every traveler.
We operate with a small-group mindset to keep experiences personal and logistics smooth. You’ll have space to engage with your guide, ask questions, and take photos without feeling rushed. If you prefer full privacy—your vehicle, your timings, your guide—we can price a private version of the itinerary. Either way, our operations team keeps a close eye on quality and flow.
Choosing your host matters. Here’s what sets us apart in Northern Vietnam.
Our Hanoi-based team designs routes that dodge bottlenecks and highlight authentic moments. We collaborate with reliable hotels, conscientious skippers, and guides who are warm, articulate, and attentive. The result is a tour that feels smooth behind the scenes and alive at the front—stories, tastes, and views strung together with real care.
Travel is full of pleasant surprises; support ensures they stay that way. From late-night flight changes to restaurant tips, we answer quickly and act decisively. You’ll have a clear contact point and a concise trip brief, so you always know what’s next and who to reach. We aim for you to feel looked after yet independent—free to explore, confident we’re nearby.
Our happiest measure of success is how many travelers return or recommend friends. Guests appreciate our responsiveness, honest advice, and the way we tune details to personal styles. While every trip is unique, the through-line is consistency: welcoming service, clear communication, and a steady hand from planning to goodbye.
A short break can feel big when every element clicks. With Asian Link Travel, you’ll step into Hanoi’s living heritage, drift among Halong’s towers, and still have time to savor quiet coffees and unplanned moments. The route is compact, the logistics are easy, and the experiences are rich—the perfect trio for a first taste of Northern Vietnam.
Ready to start? Share your travel dates, group size, and any preferences, and we’ll craft a clear proposal with options that match your style. Your Beautiful Northern Highlight 4 Days 3 Nights is just a message away.
phương n2025-07-13Verified Hello The facilities are very convenient, and the food is delicious and varied. The space is peaceful and comfortable. I had a great time with my friends. Thank you so much Alex D2025-07-12Verified Vietnam àn Halong Bay Halong bay is amazing, absolutly without doublt. Asian Link Travel is very quick to contact us when I emailed to them.Ann is a good person who help me to arrange everything. I highly recommend this conpany and will be back next year for sure. toan n2025-07-12Verified Good experience Nice services. We had fun. We took many photos, some poses. Things were interesting. I think that's all we had together. Ánh Nguyen Hong2025-07-11Verified Exciting Experience! Everything went smoothly – I didn’t have to worry about a thing. Truly unforgettable – thank you for the memories! Thank you so much! Loan N2025-06-20Verified My wonderful experience This place is amazing. This is a must-see place when you go to Vietnam. The nature is magnificient. The tour guide is enthusiastic and responsible. My unforgetable experience! Trần H2025-06-20Verified A wonderful experience with Halong Bay cruise day trip Ha Long Bay is stunningly beautiful, especially at night when its charm becomes truly enchanting. The experience begins with a warm welcome marked by the sound of festive drums and courteous staff greeting guests in the lobby like esteemed VIPs. The buffet dining service is exceptional, featuring a wide selection of fresh, delicious local specialties. In the evening, guests are treated to captivating cultural performances and exclusive fireworks displays right on the cruise, which children particularly enjoy. The cruise itself offers spacious accommodations and two delightful options: one for guests who prefer to enjoy dinner, music, and return to the mainland, and another for those who wish to stay overnight and wake up to the breathtaking sunrise over the sea. Hien N2025-05-09Verified Nice day, We had a wonderful day exploring the stunning beauty of Halong Bay. The cruise was smooth and well-organized, with delicious seafood lunch and amazing views throughout.Thank you to Asian Link Travel for the excellent service and attention to detail. Everything went perfectly from booking to drop-off. We highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Northern Vietnam! Tour613830925962025-05-08Verified Halong trip We had a nice trip in the bay with our family. Well- done, exellent services, friendly staffs. We will recommend to my friends! Quyêt Q2025-05-04Verified Great short cruise — a highlight of our trip We only had half a day to spare, but this 5-hour cruise delivered! The views were spectacular, and the cruise was well organized. Our guide was knowledgeable and gave us interesting insights about the bay’s history and geology. Highly recommend this short tour if you're on a tight schedule but don’t want to miss Halong Bay. Mình T2025-05-03Verified Halongbay Visiting Ha Long Bay was an incredible experience — the stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere were beyond words. Asian Link Travel handled every detail with great care, making the entire trip smooth and enjoyable. A special thanks to Ms. Ann, who was exceptionally kind, responsive, and professional throughout. Her thoughtful support truly made our journey even more wonderful. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!Load more
4.4
10 Reviews
Excellent 5D4N Trip – Hanoi, Halong, Da Nang We had a wonderful experience on our 5-day 4-night trip organized by Asian Link Travel. The itinerary was well-planned, allowing us to explore the highlights of Hanoi, the stunning scenery of Halong Bay, and the charm of Da Nang with ease and comfort. A special thank you to Ms. Dieu Anh, who was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and always attentive to our needs. Her enthusiasm and professionalism made the trip even more enjoyable and stress-free. We truly appreciated her quick responses and thoughtful recommendations throughout the journey. Highly recommend Asian Link Travel for anyone looking for a smooth and memorable travel experience in Vietnam!
We had a fantastic 5-day trip covering Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa. The itinerary was well-organized, with beautiful destinations and smooth transfers. We especially enjoyed the breathtaking scenery in Halong and the peaceful rice terraces in Sapa. Asian Link Travel did an excellent job from start to finish. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, and the service was professional and reliable. We highly recommend Asian Link Travel to anyone visiting Vietnam — a truly memorable experience!
We had a nice trip in the bay with our family. Well- done, exellent services, friendly staffs
One inspiring story is worth traveling. Discover more about local food, tradition and history. Read the stories that make you want to travel
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A Glance of northern Vietnam – 4 days 3 nights tour