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HIGHLIGHTS OF NORTHERN AND CENTRAL VIETNAM

Experience a unique path, a route less travelled by tourists. This tour brings you to the most exotic locations and promises you a tour filled with authentic local experiences. Start from the capital, Hanoi, where you will learn about its 1000 year history before travelling to Lan Ha Bay, a hidden part of Ha Long Bay. Later,  discover the authentic ancient towns of Hoi An and Hue.
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  • Bustling capital, Hanoi
  • Hue, ancient city of Nguyen Dynasty
  • Hoi An, Heritage old town
  • World Nature Heritage
  • Overnight in Lan Ha Bay - the hidden part of Ha Long Bay
  • History, culture, local life and stunning landscapes
  • Less touristic routes
  • Authentic experience

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION 

 

This eight day Highlights of Northern And Central Vietnam Tour starts from stately Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. We will see the real Hanoi and see the Water Puppet Show – the most impressive, traditional performance of Vietnamese culture.

Following a scenic route through the Red River Delta, the World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay will enchant you with its majestic landscape and many beautiful caves.

In Central Vietnam, you will discover the natural beauty and long standing culture of the ancient cities of Hoi An and Hue with their historic relics and amazing architecture.  You will learn some of the history, meet the friendly locals and wander the tranquil but colourful streets and enjoy the stunning landscapes.  

ITENERARY

 

Day 1: Hanoi Arrive
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour (B,L)
Day 3: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Hanoi (B,L,D)
Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi - flight to Danang -Hoi An (B,L)
Day 5: Hoi An Explore (B,L)
Day 6: Hoi An - Danang - Hue (B,L)
Day 7: Hue Highlights (B,L)
Day 8: Hue - flight to Hanoi (B,L)

 

 

DAY BY DAY

 




St. Joseph's Cathedral (Hanoi) - Attraction in Hanoi, Vietnam


Ta Hien Street: The "sleepless" street in the heart of Hanoi

 

DAY 1: HANOI ARRIVAL 

 

Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a Walking Tour in the Old Quarter


Landing at Noi Bai Airport, you are met and welcomed by your tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy the 45-minute drive to the city centre (Hanoi Old Quarter) with an information briefing about the  city's most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine. Check in at your hotel and have a rest. 


Continue the day with a Walking Tour. Start with the small pagoda named Ba Da, quietly located in a small alley - only a few steps from the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built by French colonialism in the 19th century. Your guide takes you to typical streets of Hanoi such as Lan Ong Street selling traditional medicine and Lo Ren Street where metal items are produced. Stop to visit the Dong Xuan Central Market - the largest in Hanoi. Continue walking to the area famous for night activities and street food - the vibrant Ta Hien Street, where you can see the amazing local foods and drinks. Try tasting some for an unforgettable experience.  End at your hotel.
 

Note: If your flight arrives late or you are jet lagged after a long journey, the walking tour will be moved to the City Tour, next day.
 

 

Chùa Một Cột – Wikipedia tiếng Việt

 

DAY 2: HANOI CITY TOUR (B,L)
 

8:00 AM: Tour guide picks you up for a full-day Hanoi exploration.
 •Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex (Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Stilt House - note Mausoleum closures).
• See the unique One Pillar Pagoda.
• Visit the historically significant Temple of Literature.
• Enjoy local lunch at a nearby restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit the Ethnology Museum (or Women’s Museum if Ethnology Museum is closed).
• Experience the bustling Hanoi Train Street and Old Quarter, including Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Return to your hotel around 5:00 PM.
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Kayaking in Ha Long Bay: A journey into tranquil beauty

 

DAY 3: HANOI - HALONG BAY (B,L,D)

 
08:30 – Your tour guide will pick you up from the hotel and depart for Ha Long Bay (approx. 2.5–3 hours by road).

11:30 – Arrive at the pier and embark on the cruise. Enjoy a welcome drink, followed by a safety briefing and cruise introduction. Check in to your cabin.

13:15 – Lunch is served on board while the boat cruises through the magnificent Ha Long Bay. Admire fascinating limestone formations before anchoring near Titop Island.

15:00 – 16:00 – Visit the impressive Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay.

16:00 – 17:00 – Continue to Titop Island. Climb to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay, or relax and swim at the sandy beach below.

17:20 – Return to the cruise. Relax on the sundeck and watch the magical sunset while enjoying Happy Hour at the bar.

18:00 – Happy Hour continues with special drink promotions.

19:00 – 21:00 – Enjoy a delicious dinner on board featuring fresh local seafood and Vietnamese specialties.

21:00 – 22:00 – Evening leisure: join squid fishing with the crew, sing karaoke, play board games, or simply relax on deck or in your cabin. Overnight on the cruise.

 

 

Kayaking


Luon Cave: A Captivating Halong Bay Adventure

 

DAY 4: HA LONG - HANOI - FLIGHT TO DANANG - HOI AN (B,L)
 

Morning:
After breakfast on the cruise, enjoy the stunning scenery of Ha Long Bay as the boat sails back to the harbor.
Light brunch/lunch is served on board before disembarkation.
Late Morning / Noon:
Meet your driver and transfer back to Hanoi.
Arrive at Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Afternoon:
Upon arrival in Da Nang, meet your guide/driver for a private transfer to Hoi An (around 40 minutes).
Check in at your hotel in Hoi An and have some time to relax.
Evening:
Leisure time to explore the ancient town of Hoi An on your own—stroll along the lantern-lit streets, visit tailor shops, or enjoy local specialties such as Cao Lau noodles.

Overnight in Hoi An.
 

 

Japanese Covered Bridge - Things To Do In Hoi An 2025 - Vietnam Car Rentals With Driver


Top 14 quán Cà Phê Hội An bạn nhất định phải ghé khi đến phố cổ (2025)


Explore the food of Hoi An | Vietnam Tourism


Kinh nghiệm Du lịch HỘI AN 2025 từ A-Z: lưu trú, ăn chơi, đặc sản... mới nhất


Top 10 Spots for the Best Egg Coffee Hoi An You Must Try

 

DAY 5: HOI AN EXPLORE (B,L)
 

9:00 AM: You are collected at your hotel for your Hoi An Old Town Highlights Tour. First visit, Cam Pho - one of the oldest communal houses in Hoi An. It was built in the shape of a Chinese character and means the place for worshipping and trading, business and cultural exchange between local, Chinese and Japanese traders. We then go to a non-tourist destination, enhancing your visit making it more enjoyable and enriched by learning about the Japanese Tea Ceremony or making toys from coconut leaves with a local expert. 

We take a leisurely walk to the Hoi An city’s symbol - the Chua Cau or the Japanese Covered Bridge which was built in the 17th century to allow the Japanese quarter access from the Chinese neighbourhoods. The bridge’s original style has been carefully preserved for the last 400 years.

Immersing into the life of the town, we walk through the town to Quan Thang Ancient House - one of the most authentic old houses in Hoi An, with it's lively and fine architecture and sculptures which were made by craftsmen of the famous Kim Bong carpentry village, in the oriental style. The house offers a good insight into Hoi An daily family life. 

Next stop is the Phuc Kien or Fujian Assembly Hall which was built around 1690 and functioned as a traditional assembly hall for the Chinese ethnic group from Fujian, China - to socialise. But later, it was transformed into a temple dedicated to their deity, named Thien Hau – the Goddess of the Sea who protects sailors from danger. We spend some time shopping and have lunch in the town.

In the afternoon, we start the day with a welcome drink at Hai Café (98 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Hoi An town).

Visit the colourful Hoi An Market and experience the amazing sights, sounds and aromas of this busy marketplace. We will have the opportunity to interact with the local sellers and learn about all the ingredients to be used in a cooking lesson, later.

We board the Red Bridge boat for a leisurely 25 minute cruise along the Hoi An River to the Red Bridge Cooking School. This is a chance to view local river life so make sure your camera is handy.

On arrival, we explore the cooking school’s herb garden, before learning about some of Hoi An’s and Vietnam’s well known dishes. The cooking lesson runs for about 2 hours – the Red Bridge chefs first demonstrate each dish before we prepare the same dishes ourselves. Included in the class is a brief introduction to Vietnamese food carving (plate decorations). After the lesson, we sit down and eat what we have cooked.

Transfer back to hotel at the end of the day.
 

 

Hue Citadel – Intact Imperial Palace In Vietnam - Vietnam Discovery Travel


Hai Van Pass - Where the cloud meets the ocean- Must See!


Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue City - Attractions in Hue, Vietnam

 

DAY 6: HOI AN - DANANG - HUE (B,L)
 

Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham Sculpture Museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue Citadel

8:00 AM: You are collected from your hotel then travel to Hue by passing Da Nang along the Sea Road. On arrival in Da Nang, stop to visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections in the world. Walk to My Khe Beach where you enjoy the view of the giant Goodness of Mercy statue in the Linh Ung Pagoda. Take photos of fishermen by the beach before continuing the drive along the coastline to Hue ancient capital. Make a stop at the top of the Hai Van Pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean. 

On arrival in Hue, enjoy lunch then visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Hue, dating back to 1601. This is the spiritual highlight of the city and well known for its majestic octagon tower and beautiful view of the Perfume River.  

Keep your tour visit to the most important sites in the city - Hue Citadel, the only vestige symbol for what was once the Imperial City of Vietnam. It is inspired by the fortification of Vauban.

The city is composed of three parts: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial City) and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). The most beautiful sites in Hue are concentrated in this area including the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple Area and the Settlement Area.

End of the day, check into your hotel and enjoy your stay in the ancient capital.
 

Explore the 3 most visited Emperor's tombs in Hue | Vietnam Tourism


Tu Duc Tomb in Hue, Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, Hue Vietnam

 

DAY 7 : HUE COUNTRY SIDE & TOMBS TOUR  B/L) 
 

Morning

Breakfast at the hotel.

Around 8:30 AM, embark on a leisurely boat trip along the Perfume River, enjoying the tranquil scenery of Hue.

Visit either the Minh Mang Tomb – known for its harmonious architecture and beautiful lakes – or the Tu Duc Tomb, surrounded by lush gardens and pine forests.

Late Morning

Continue to a t where you can see colorful incense sticks being handmade and try rolling one yourself.

Stop at a conical hat village, where artisans create the iconic Vietnamese “nón lá,” a symbol of Hue’s culture.

Lunch

Enjoy a delicious Hue-style lunch at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties.

Afternoon

Free time to relax, shop, or explore on your own before transfer back to the hotel.
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Vietnam Airlines - Wikipedia
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DAY 8 : HUE DEPARTURE(B) 
 

Breakfast at the hotel.

Free time at leisure to relax, explore the city on your own, or do some last-minute shopping at Dong Ba Market.

Depending on your flight/train schedule, our driver will transfer you to Hue Airport or Hue Railway Station for your onward journey.

INCLUSION & EXCLUSION

Prices are in US Dollars ($*) and are subject to change depending on the season.

Please contact our Sales Department at info@vietnamexplorationbooking.com for detailed pricing information.

INCLUSION: 

  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mentioned in the Itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Sena Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat trip and cooking class in Red Bridge Restaurant or similer one
  • Private transportation following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Got Ferry
  • Flight Tickets: VN181 HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , VN1542 HUI - HAN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meals: Breakfast: 07, Lunch: 04, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Viet Hai Village cycling
  • Kayak: Ha Long Bay
  • Entertainment / Show: Water Puppet Show, Beach swimming, Squid Fishing, Morning Tai Chi, Foot Massage with traditional herbs
  • Cooking Class: Ha Long Bay
  • 01 bottle of water per pax per day
  • Service charges and Taxes

EXCLUSION: 

  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the Program

Cancellation by Customer

  • Cancellation received before 60 days: No charge
  • Cancellation received from 30 days to 59 days prior arrival date: 10% of total rate
  • Cancellation received from 15 days to 29 days prior arrival date: 30% of total rate
  • Cancellation received from 7 days to 14 days prior arrival date: 50% of total rate
  • Cancellation received less than 7 days prior arrival date or No show: 100% of total rate

Children Policy

  • The rate for children applicable for one child sharing a twin or double cabin with two adults
  • For infant (<04 years old): FOC except domestic ticket cost
  • 04 - 11 years old without bed: 50% adult rate
  • 04 - 11 years old with extra bed: 75% adult rate
  • 04 - 11 years old in twin share: 90% adult rate

SERVICE & TRAVEL ADVISE

Service Details During The Trip

We’ll immerse you in the diverse cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia by showcasing the unique local flavors. By balancing included sightseeing and free time, we can customize your dream vacation with the things you have always wanted to do.
 

  • Private Local Tour Guide: You will have a fully licensed local tour guide from 'welcome' until you are farewelled at the airport. Your guide will guide, help, assist and take care of you in order to make your tour worry-free. Vietnam Exploration Booking Tours offer the best tour guides based on the features of your itinerary and the make up of the group, to maximize your tour while travelling. Having the right guide means you have the best experience.
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  • Private Drivers and Vehicle: Safety is the first priority for transportation. All vehicles are in good condition and are well maintained with fully licensed and experienced drivers ensuring you are in safe hands. To maximize your comfort and enjoyable experience, cold drinking water and refreshing towels are provided in the car. 
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  • ​​Local Flavor Meals: You don’t worry about meals; we select both restaurants and menus for you. Vietnam Exploration Booking Tours only chooses clean restaurants with pleasant environments for our guests. The menu is also carefully selected to ensure you can try different food at every meal. We will recommend and arrange local cuisine since it is part of the cultural experience while travelling. We can also recommend where to eat so you can enjoy your favourite food when not eating with the group.
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  • Well-Selected Hotels: Comfort and good value are our priorities when choosing hotels for our guests. We do our best to ensure good rest by the comfort of the mattress and bedding and offering rooms with a pleasant decorative style, user friendly facilities, good service and a great breakfast!

Things to bring:

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for activities such as riding in the sampan, walking, cycling and for long drives. Prepare for hot weather. Bring a hat/cap, sun screen, sun glasses, a swimsuit and insect repellent. The weather is normally hot from May to October.

You should bring cash with you, preferably in Vietnamese Dong because the banking system doesn’t always function well. US Dollars and Euro are accepted in many places too. You should bring your medications with you although there are pharmacies throughout Vietnam if you do get sick.

 

Did we hit all the items on your travel bucket list for your holiday?

If not, don’t worry. We specialize in tailor-made tours and can customize this program to create your dream trip. Get in touch with your personal Travel Consultant to create your personalized program.

Don't want the fun to end?

Why not combine this tour with Ninh Binh tours, Sapa tours, Saigon tours, cambodia tours, laos tours, Myanmar tours or spend a few days in the tropical paradise that is the Viet Nam coast? We take care of everything from flights to transfers and accommodation so that you can relax and enjoy your holiday. Explore our other destinations or speak with your personal Travel Consultant for some expert advice on suitable combinations.

Are you planning to Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar or Thailand? We are here to help you save time and money.

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