$$ / Person
Escape to northern Vietnam 5 days 4 nights

$ $
Experience the essence of Northern Vietnam in just five unforgettable days. This Northern Vietnam 5 day tour is thoughtfully designed for families, culture seekers, and nature lovers. From the bustling capital of Hanoi to the misty highlands of Sapa, and the emerald waters of Halong Bay, every moment of this journey promises excitement, discovery, and beauty.
Your adventure begins in Hanoi, the vibrant capital city full of timeless architecture, flavorful cuisine, and rich history. Walk through the Old Quarter, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, and admire Hoan Kiem Lake’s charm.
Continue to the highlands of Sapa, where ethnic cultures and breathtaking rice terraces welcome you. Hike through scenic villages, learn about the life of the H’mong and Giay people, and spend a peaceful night in a local homestay. A highlight of your time in Sapa is a trip to the summit of Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, offering panoramic views that are second to none.
No Vietnam itinerary would be complete without a visit to Halong Bay. Cruise through its UNESCO World Heritage seascape, relax on board a traditional junk boat, and soak in the tranquility of towering limestone karsts scattered across the bay.
This Hanoi Sapa Halong Bay tour is ideal for families looking for a relaxing and enriching vacation. With a perfect balance of guided activities and free time, this family trip to Northern Vietnam offers authentic local experiences, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transportation throughout.
Whether you’re exploring Hanoi’s historic sites, trekking through Sapa’s lush valleys, or cruising through Halong Bay’s waters, this Northern Vietnam 5 day tour ensures lasting memories for travelers of all ages.
Included/Excluded
Upon landing at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide/driver. Then, you will transfer to your hotel in the city center. Depending on your arrival time, check-in may be available (hotel check-in time is usually after 2:00 PM). Early check-in is subject to availability or an additional fee.
In the afternoon, let’s begin your tour at the vibrant Old Quarter, where the maze of streets is named after traditional trades and crafts, and visit Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Returned Sword): Take a scenic walk around the lake, the heart of Hanoi, and admire the iconic Red Bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain), dedicated to Confucian and Taoist deities.
After the Old Quarter, head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. This serene complex, built in 1070, honors Confucius and celebrates Vietnam’s scholars. Stroll through its courtyards and marvel at the ancient architecture and steel of doctors.
In the evening, you will enjoy a Vietnamese water puppet show at a local theater. This art form originated from the Red River Delta and showcases traditional tales, folklore, and music. The show typically lasts about 45 minutes.
Return to your hotel and unwind after your first day in Hanoi. If time allows, enjoy the night vibe of Hanoi by visiting a café or taking a short stroll around the Night Market on your own (if your arrival is on a weekend).
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Meals included: None
6.00-6:30: Pick up at hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, get on a big bus, and depart for Sapa Town.
9.30: Follow the highway to Lao Cai city and have the first rest stop.
11.00: Second rest stop at Lao Cai city before heading to Sapa
13.30: Arrive at Sapa Town with colorful traditional costumes of H’mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic people. The guide will pick you up to have lunch at a local restaurant.
14.30: Start hiking through Y Linh Ho, then trek through the rice terraces and along Muong Hoa Stream to the Black Hmong village of Lao Chai to see the spectacular landscape of Hoang Lien Son Mountain. You approach Ta Van village, where Giay Ethnic People inhabit in late afternoon.
The trekking distance is about 9 km and it lasts for 3.5 hours
17.45: Check in homestay; get to know the family of Dzay People. Spend time enjoying the mountain life on Sunset. You may attend cooking local dishes with the family and enjoy dinner in peace. In the evening, you can join the local bar nearby with music and socialize with other tourists, then overnight at the bungalow.
Accommodation: Homestay/Bungalow
Meals included: None
08h00 After breakfast in the hotel, the driver takes you to the Fansipan Cable Car Station and spends 20 minutes with the cable car to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Reach the altitude of 2800 meters, you have a good time to see the view and take photos, visit the pagoda, the spiritual destinations, and trek up to 600 steps. You will reach the peak of Fansipan, the Roof of Indochina. (Spend about 1.5 hours for hiking and taking photos.).
11h00: Come back to Cable Car Station and return to Sapa town
Afternoon: Free time to explore Sapa town or go shopping at Sapa Market.
15h30-16h00: It‘s time to say “Good bye, Sa Pa!” and drive back to Hanoi.
21h00: We arrive in Hanoi.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Meals included: None
In the morning, you will depart towards the famous Halong Bay (approx. 2.5–3 hours by car).
This world-famous bay is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Vietnam, with its giant rock islets covered in luxuriant vegetation overlooking the waters. Halong Bay includes some 1,900 islands and islets of rocky peaks, often uninhabited and unvisited. This scene creates a spectacular marine landscape, which earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1994. You will be served lunch and dinner aboard with excellent and freshly caught seafood from the bay.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight on the junk
Distance: 122 kilometers, 2 hours
Early in the morning, and depending on the season, you will wake up to enjoy the sunrise over the aquamarine waters of the bay. Then the cruise will tour around the bay until you disembark at the end of the morning. After that, you will check out the cruise and head to Hanoi Airport for your departure flight. Ends of service.
Meals included: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: None
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
Embark on The Amazing Northern Vietnam 5 Day Tour, a perfectly paced journey through Northern Vietnam’s icons—Hanoi’s soulful Old Quarter, the cinematic karst scenery of Ninh Binh, and the emerald waters of Halong or Lan Ha Bay. Designed and operated by Asian Link Travel, this curated itinerary blends cultural depth, light adventure, and seamless logistics. Enjoy small groups or private arrangements, trusted local experts, and handpicked stays—all tailored to make every day effortless and memorable.
Choosing the right operator determines how smoothly your five days unfold. Below, we spotlight what sets Asian Link Travel apart: licensed local expertise, thoughtful pacing, flexible options, and a heartfelt commitment to service. Expect transparent advice, swift communication, and a support team that anticipates needs before you ask—so you can focus on experiencing Northern Vietnam at its best.
Our team is locally rooted and internationally trained, combining deep destination knowledge with global service standards. You’ll travel in small groups or private setups that move faster, enter attractions earlier, and get more one-on-one time with your guide. Airport pickups, vetted hotels, and reliable cruise partners are pre-arranged, while contingency planning covers weather or traffic surprises. This hands-on orchestration ensures your five days feel unhurried, insightful, and flawlessly coordinated from start to finish.
From dietary requests to room preferences, we tailor details so comfort and enjoyment never feel generic. We propose smart upgrades where they truly add value—like a balcony cabin on the bay or a boutique hotel near Hanoi’s Old Quarter—while protecting your budget. Communication is prompt and honest, with real humans advising you, not scripted bots. After the trip, you get follow-up assistance for photos, add-on bookings, or future visits, reinforcing a relationship that extends beyond checkout.
This section distills the itinerary’s essentials: destinations, pace, inclusions, and who will love it most. Use it to confirm the trip aligns with your style before diving into the day-by-day details. Our aim is a balanced five-day arc—rich in highlights, light on rush, and generous with downtime for café-hopping, sunset views, and leisurely walks.
You’ll anchor in Hanoi for cultural immersion and culinary exploration, venture to Ninh Binh for rice fields and limestone valleys, then unwind on an overnight cruise across Halong or Lan Ha Bay. We balance iconic sights with authentic moments: temple courtyards, craft alleys, sampan rides, kayaking coves, and sunset decks. Transfers are clustered sensibly to reduce backtracking, leaving more time for the experiences you came for—photography, tastings, and conversations with locals.
First-timers seeking Northern Vietnam’s “musts” will love the efficient design; return visitors enjoy elevated picks and customizable twists. Couples get romance on the water; families appreciate soft adventure and flexible meal options; friends find a photogenic playground of streets, caves, and bays. Mobility or dietary notes? Tell us. We’ll adjust walking intensity, cabin access, and menu planning, ensuring comfort and inclusivity without losing the magic that defines this region.
See more: Laos: A Journey to the Land of a Million Elephants
Your journey through Northern Vietnam unfolds as a seamless story rather than a checklist, where each day blends into the next with a natural rhythm. Arrival in Hanoi brings you straight into the city’s vibrant pulse, yet the transition feels gentle. After settling into your hotel, the first impressions begin with soft evening lights around Hoan Kiem Lake, the fragrance of street food drifting through the Old Quarter, and the curiosity sparked by ancient temples tucked between colonial facades. It is an introduction designed not to overwhelm but to ease you into the tempo of the north.
As the days continue, the capital reveals its cultural depth. Temples that once nurtured scholars, serene lakeside pagodas, and bustling guild streets all carry stories of Vietnam’s resilience and creativity. Meals are not just sustenance but gateways to heritage—whether it is pho shared in a hidden eatery, bun cha grilled over smoky coals, or the frothy sweetness of an egg coffee enjoyed on a balcony. Time is deliberately unhurried, with space left for wandering into markets, people-watching from cafés, or simply absorbing the rhythm of daily life.
The narrative then shifts southward to Ninh Binh, where the flat horizons of Hanoi give way to rice paddies, limestone cliffs, and slow-flowing rivers. A sampan ride through caves and waterways feels almost cinematic, with karst towers mirrored on jade-green surfaces and lotus blossoms drifting alongside water buffalo in the fields. History lingers in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where dynastic temples recall a time when this quiet valley was once the political heart of the nation. The experience is both grounding and ethereal, a reminder of how Vietnam’s landscapes and history are inseparably intertwined.
From land to sea, the journey culminates in Halong and Lan Ha Bay, where the water becomes your pathway and a luxury cruise your temporary home. As the vessel glides past limestone spires and hidden coves, the pace slows to match the rhythm of the tides. Kayaks slip into secluded lagoons, while evenings bring sunset cocktails and the soft glow of lanterns on deck. Fresh seafood dinners are paired with laughter and starlight, and the lull of gentle waves carries you into a restorative sleep. Dawn on the bay is unforgettable—soft mist dissolving into golden light, mirrored by tranquil waters.
The return to Hanoi on the final day feels like closing a chapter of a well-told story. There is time for a last stroll, perhaps a quiet coffee by the lake or a final purchase from a local market, before your departure. The tour may span only five days, but its cadence leaves you with a lasting impression: the balance of heritage and nature, serenity and vibrancy, moments shared with locals and moments of stillness just for yourself. It is less about covering ground and more about discovering the soul of Northern Vietnam.
Stays shape the mood of your journey. We pair central Hanoi hotels with curated bay cruisers to blend convenience, character, and comfort. Whether you favor boutique charm, modern minimalism, or resort-style amenities, our portfolio covers the spectrum—always with safety, cleanliness, and service as non-negotiables.
Expect walkable locations near the Old Quarter or lakes, quiet rooms, quality bedding, and attentive staff. Boutique properties offer personality—artful lobbies, rooftop views, and thoughtful touches like welcome fruit or pillow menus. Larger hotels deliver full facilities: pools, gyms, and expansive breakfasts. We brief you on room categories that actually matter—window type, noise levels, and square footage—so you secure the comfort you need without paying for perks you won’t use.
Cruises differ in route, cabin size, and onboard programming. Standard options are great value, with clean cabins and classic itineraries; premium vessels add larger bathrooms, balconies, and refined dining; luxury ships elevate with suite layouts, à la carte menus, and curated excursions away from crowds. Safety procedures, crew training, and environmental practices are key selection criteria. We’ll align your pick to your style—romance, family time, or photography-focused exploration.
Every great journey begins with certainty, and on this 5-day adventure through Northern Vietnam, the essentials are already woven into place. You’ll find yourself gliding from airport to hotel without a thought, waking each morning to hearty breakfasts, stepping into sights where tickets and timing have all been arranged, and cruising emerald bays with experiences ready at hand. Your guide is more than a companion—they’re the storyteller who unlocks the meaning behind temples, streets, and limestone peaks—while behind the scenes, transfers, meals, and touches of comfort are seamlessly handled.
Yet not everything is fixed, and that is part of the charm. International flights, visas, and personal extras remain yours to decide, keeping the journey flexible and free of unnecessary costs. Perhaps you’ll choose to add a balcony cabin on the bay, a sunset street-food walk, or a spa session before departure. By leaving space for these personal flourishes, the tour balances assurance with possibility—making your Northern Vietnam chapter both effortless and uniquely your own.
Transparent pricing reflects seasonality, cabin tiers, and group size. Below we outline how quotes are built, along with deposit and change terms designed to be fair to travelers and partners alike.
Rates fluctuate with travel seasons (peak holidays vs. shoulder months), hotel categories, and cruise tiers. Small groups or private tours can share costs efficiently when planned ahead. Your quote will itemize key drivers—room type, ship category, transport level—so you can adjust variables to meet budget and comfort targets. Early booking and flexible dates often unlock better cabin selections and promotional perks that stretch value without compromising quality.
We specify deposit amounts, due dates, and accepted payment methods upfront. Change windows allow date or name adjustments with minimal fees when possible; cancellations follow clear milestones aligned with hotel and cruise policies. In unforeseen events (e.g., bay closures due to weather), we prioritize traveler safety and propose equivalent-value alternatives or rescheduling assistance. Our team documents everything in writing so you’re never guessing about next steps.
See more: Top Hue Sightseeing Tips for a Memorable Vietnam Vacation
Good prep makes travel lighter. Consider the seasons, pack smart, and observe simple health and safety habits to keep your energy high for the experiences that matter.
Autumn and spring often bring pleasant temperatures and softer light for photography, while summer delivers lush greens and warm bay swims. Holidays can fill hotels and ships; we’ll help you dodge peak surges or secure early reservations if dates are fixed. Sudden showers happen—especially in the tropics—so a light rain jacket and flexible mindset go a long way. Your guide will tweak pacing daily for comfort and better crowd flow.
Pack breathable layers, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and modest attire for temples. Bring any essential medications and consider travel insurance for peace of mind. Vietnam’s SIM cards and eSIMs are affordable, keeping maps and messaging at your fingertips. Hydration and short breaks are built into touring days. With bottled water in vehicles and hygiene-minded dining choices, you’ll have the energy to enjoy long walks, cave visits, and evening shows.
Quick answers to common queries help you plan confidently. We expand or tailor details in your personalized quote.
Yes—our pacing, vehicle comfort, and flexible meal plans suit families well. We can arrange child seats, interconnecting rooms, and cabins near elevators on certain ships. Activities like sampan rides and gentle kayaking can be adapted for age and comfort levels, while cultural stops are kept engaging with stories, snacks, and photo ops. Share your family’s needs and we’ll fine-tune rest times, walking distances, and guides experienced with young travelers.
Absolutely. Vietnam’s cuisine offers ample plant-forward dishes, and many restaurants can adapt recipes. For Halal travelers, we propose seafood-leaning menus or arrange certified providers in Hanoi when available. On cruises, we notify chefs in advance to plan alternatives that feel crafted, not afterthoughts. Please list restrictions in your booking; we’ll brief every partner, reconfirm on arrival, and keep snacks handy during longer transfers or outdoor excursions.
Safety leads decisions. If authorities restrict sailings, we pivot to equally rich land-based options—extra time in Hanoi’s cultural corners, a curated food trail, or an expanded Ninh Binh program—while monitoring conditions for potential rescheduling. If your schedule allows, we explore date swaps or cabin reassignments. All changes are explained clearly with documentation, keeping financial and experiential impact as low as possible under the circumstances.
Visa needs vary by nationality and trip length. We provide general guidance and official links, but you remain responsible for securing correct entry documentation. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover medical care, delays, and weather-related changes. Keep digital and paper copies of key documents accessible. If you’d like, we can recommend reputable insurers and visa resources as part of your pre-departure checklist.
Ready to go? Here’s how to lock in dates, cabins, and hotels efficiently, with a support team that keeps communication fast and friendly from first hello to farewell.
Start by sending your dates, group size, and preferences. We reply with a transparent quote and suggested tweaks for best value. Once you confirm, we secure rooms and cabins, then refine details like dietary notes, special occasions, or photo stops you’ve dreamed about. Pre-trip documents arrive in an easy-to-read pack, and your 24/7 hotline is activated so help is one message away throughout the journey.
We accept major cards and bank transfers via secure gateways, issuing invoices and vouchers that itemize inclusions and contact points. Reminders keep timelines simple—deposit, balance, pickup times, and any visa or insurance tasks. If plans change, you’ll find us responsive and solutions-oriented. Our goal is a booking experience as smooth as the trip itself, where clarity breeds confidence and every question gets a prompt, thoughtful answer.
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
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