9 Days: Non-Touristy, In-Depth Experience In Cultural Richness & Budget-Friendly In North Vietnam

Welcome to Hanoi, the charming capital of Vietnam, where your unforgettable journey begins! 

Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Store your luggage in the hotel then embark on a guided tour to explore Hanoi city.  

(Hotel check-in time is from 2:00 PM. Early check-in is subject to availability and costs an additional surcharge.) 

Start with a visit to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has witnessed centuries of history and served as the heart of Vietnam’s dynastic rule.  

Next, marvel at the Hanoi Flag Tower, a proud symbol of the nation’s strength and resilience, offering panoramic views of the city’s historic landscape. 

Enjoy Lunch at a local restaurant.  

Take a rest for the afternoon. In the evening, go on a Food tour treat yourself to a traditional Vietnamese dinner. Next, soak up the vibrant street life at Bia Đường Tàu, where you can enjoy refreshing Bia Hơi (draft beer) just inches from passing trains. This lively spot offers an authentic taste of Hanoi’s local culture, perfect for relaxing with a cold drink.  

Overnight in Hanoi.

Discover the heart of Hanoi on a full-day city tour that highlights its rich history, spiritual landmarks, and cultural treasures.  

Begin your journey at the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda which is the oldest Buddhist temple in Vietnam, with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Next, visit Temple of Literature– Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucian teachings and a symbol of scholarly tradition.  

In the afternoon, marvel at the neo-Gothic architecture of St. Joseph Cathedral, a striking relic of French colonial influence. Admire the grandeur of the Hanoi Opera House, a symbol of the city’s artistic heritage, before strolling along Hoan Kiem Lake. Visit Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a small island in the lake, and learn about its historical significance. Conclude the day at the Vietnam National Museum of History on Trang Tien Street, where centuries of Vietnamese history come to life through a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits. 

Free time in the evening.  

Overnight in Hanoi. 

Leave Chuong Village for Duong Lam Village, approximately 70 kilometres west of Hanoi, enjoying views of Vietnam’s scenic countryside along the way. 

Upon arrival, start your cycling tour through the charming village, where you’ll see traditional laterite houses and the tranquil lanes that offer a step back in time. 

Explore Mia Pagoda, an ancient temple with intricate carvings and statues, known for its serene atmosphere and historical significance. 

Cycle to the temples dedicated to Vietnam’s historic heroes, Ngo Quyen and Phung Hung, who played vital roles in establishing the country’s independence.  

Admire the 1,000-year-old “Duoi” Tree: Marvel at the ancient “Duoi” tree, a thousand-year-old landmark that stands as a symbol of Duong Lam’s enduring heritage. 

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch prepared by local hosts (Mr. Hung) in one of the village’s ancient houses. Try traditional Vietnamese meal style, including the following: Spring Rolls and Spit-roasted pork. 

After lunch, visit the Mong Phu Communal House, the heart of village life and an important cultural and architectural site. 

Continue cycling through the village’s peaceful lanes, taking in the timeless beauty of Duong Lam, with opportunities for photos and interactions with local artisans and farmers. 

Continue your journey with a transfer from Duong Lam Village to Ba Vi. 

Overnight in Ba Vi. 

Embark on an exciting day of discovery in the picturesque Ba Vi National Park, where nature, history, and spirituality come together.  

As you explore deeper into the forest, uncover the hauntingly beautiful French Ruins, remnants of Vietnam’s colonial past.  

Continue your journey with a visit to the Mẫu Temple, a sacred site dedicated to the worship of the Mother Goddess. 

Finally, ascend to the Hồ Chí Minh Temple, located on one of Ba Vì’s highest peaks. This iconic temple honors Vietnam’s national leader, Hồ Chí Minh, and is a site of deep reverence for locals and visitors alike. 

Make your way from Ba Vi to Ba Be to continue your journey of discovery. 

Overnight in Ba Be. 

Trekking Adventure in Ba Be National Park: Bo Lu to Khau Quan and Nam Dai (12–15km)

Start your journey with guidance from a local expert to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek along this challenging route. Departing from Bo Lu Village, near the Ba Be Tourism Centre, your trail leads through Coc Toc Village, home to the Tay community who rely on the lake for fishing.   

As you cross the Pe Lu Stream and ascend steep paths, the effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trek winds through majestic mountain ranges and serene valleys, offering glimpses of daily life in the stilt houses and schools of the Dzao people. Along the way, you’ll also visit an H’mong village, immersing yourself in the rich cultural diversity of the region.   

After this fulfilling day of exploration, you’ll return to your hotel/homestay, completing the loop where your adventure began. 

Overnight in Ba Be. 

Begin your morning with a delightful breakfast in Bo Lu Village. Afterward, embark on a scenic transfer to Bac Son – Lang Son, a picturesque valley surrounded by lush green mountains. Along the journey, enjoy the changing landscapes, from the tranquil beauty of Ba Be National Park to the striking karst formations and rice fields of Bac Son. 

Upon arrival, explore the untouched beauty of the Suoi Mo Mam Ecotourism Area. Marvel at the magnificent Keeng Tao Cave, a 300-meter-long cavern, unspoiled and awe-inspiring. A natural stream flows through the cave, feeding into the Suoi Mo Mam stream.  

Next, check in to a Quynh Son community stilt house, where you can rest and enjoy a traditional lunch.  

In the afternoon: 

Option 1: Embark on a challenging trek to Na Lay Peak, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Bac Son Valley from above. The trek involves climbing about 1,200 steep stone steps, taking around 30 minutes to reach the summit.

Option 2: If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can take a leisurely walk around Quynh Son Village.   

In evening, enjoy a hearty traditional dinner at the stilt house, featuring local Northwest specialties such as roasted pork and corn wine. Afterward, participate in a bonfire gathering or experience the traditional. Then singing of the Tay people, offering a deep dive into the cultural heritage of the Tày and Nùng ethnic groups. 

(Additional fees for the bonfire and cultural performances are self-funded.)   

Overnight at a stilt house in Quynh Son Village (Dorm room).  

Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the stilt house, then check out and head towards Ha Long City for the next leg of your adventure. 

(The distance from Bac Son to Ha Long is approximately 300 km.) 

11:30 – Arrive at Tuan Chau Port and check in for your cruise experience.   

12:15 – Check into your cabin and begin your cruise through the stunning waters of Ha Long Bay.   

12:30 – Lunch on board: Enjoy a delightful meal featuring both Vietnamese and international dishes in the elegant onboard restaurant while soaking in the picturesque scenery of Ha Long Bay.   

13:30 – Cua Van Floating Village: After lunch, head to the Cua Van Floating Village, known for its traditional fishing culture, and continue your exploration of Lan Ha Bay, passing through notable landmarks like Tien Ong Cave, Trong Cave, and Ho Dong Tien.   

15:00 – Pearl Farm and White Pearl Oyster Farm: Take a boat tour to visit a pearl farm, where you can observe how skilled local artisans cultivate high-quality pearls.   

16:00 – Luon Cave & Kayaking: Cruise on to Luon Cave, one of the most scenic spots in Ha Long Bay. Here, you can enjoy kayaking or a basket boat ride, guided by local residents.   

17:30 – Sunset Party: Relax and unwind during the sunset party, where you can enjoy a variety of snacks, fruit juices, cocktails, red wine, and fresh fruit in the onboard restaurant.   

18:00 – Cooking Class: Participate in a cooking class led by a professional chef. Learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes and try your hand at cooking.   

19:30 – Dinner: Savor a special dinner onboard, with a range of delicious dishes served at the restaurant.

21:00 – Evening Entertainment: After dinner, enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including beauty services like massages (at an additional cost), movies, board games like cards and chess, karaoke, or try your luck with squid fishing.  

Overnight on Cruise. 

6:30 – Tai Chi Morning Exercise: Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the deck, guided by expert instructors, as the sun rises over Ha Long Bay.   

7:00 – Breakfast: Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with your choice of tea or coffee, accompanied by a light meal to start the day.   

8:00 – Explore Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave: Visit Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay. Marvel at the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites as you explore this natural wonder.   

10:00 – Check-Out: Settle your bill at the reception and prepare for departure. Enjoy a final farewell lunch in the restaurant while cruising back towards the shore.   

12:30 – Return to the Dock: Arrive back at the dock, where our driver will transport you to your hotel in Hanoi.  

After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable journey. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you again.