Northern Vietnam Tours & Trips
Ever dreamed of kayaking through Halong Bay's limestone karsts or trekking Sapa's terraced rice fields? Northern Vietnam brings everything from Hanoi's busy streets to the Fansipan summit, Mai Chau's valleys to the ethnic villages of the highlands. Check out old Hoa Lu and cruise Lan Ha Bay. It’s the true wonder of Vietnam.
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Angela • traveled in April, 2025
Top highlight was Hannah's availability to arrange all details of our trip before and during our stays. They've created a WhatsApp group from the beginning and she was very proactive and always responsive. Thank you so much, Hannah!
5-Day Northern Vietnam Highlights: Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay - V
Vicky • traveled in December
Absolutely amazing!! I had a very good time on this tour, thanks my guide David and S Viet team! Highly recommend :)
Vietnam Tour: Melody Of Mountain and Sea In 8 Days - C
CunCin • traveled in March
An amazing 7 day trip organised by Lana of Crossing Vietnam Tour. We had a wonderful time in all the lovely places we visited. The staff and guides at every location were very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. Alice looked after us at every step of the journey. She is very amazing and our trip was more enjoyable and memorable because of her efforts and experience. Thank you
The Best Of Northeast Vietnam - 7 Days / 6 Nights
Table of contents
- The best Northern Vietnam tour packages
- Travel Northern Vietnam your way
- Best tour companies for Northern Vietnam tours
- Discover Northern Vietnam tours for every budget
- Northern Vietnam tours for every type of group
- Top Northern Vietnam travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Northern Vietnam
- Contact our Northern Vietnam travel experts
- What our customers ask about Northern Vietnam Tours & Trips
The best Northern Vietnam tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaNorthern Vietnam travel expert at TourRadar
The Best Of Northeast Vietnam - 7 Days / 6 Nights
91 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great food, great info, and a perfect way to see the city!”
Jeff, traveled in October
Ha Giang Province's dramatic peaks and UNESCO-listed Dong Van Geopark reveal northern Vietnam's hidden wonders. Ban Gioc Waterfall cascades majestically, while Ba Be Lake's karst-studded waters welcome kayakers. Tay culture thrives in Phuong Do village homestays, Thai Nguyen's tea plantations stretch endlessly, and Nguom Ngao Cave's limestone formations inspire awe.
Duration 7 days Destinations Hanoi, Ha Giang, Cao Bang Age Range Ages 13+ Operator Crossing Vietnam Tour From
- NZ$2,172
3-Day Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise
85 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Staff very friendly, food delicious and very comfortable room.”
CHERYL, traveled in June
This luxurious 3-day tour of Northern Vietnam, rated 5.0/5 by 65+ travelers, starts in Hanoi's Old Quarter. UNESCO-listed Trang An's tranquil rivers and Bai Dinh Temple Complex precede stays at Ninh Binh Bungalow. A 5-star cruise through Ha Long Bay includes kayaking at Ba Trai Dao Beach and cooking classes. Total costs around $300.
Duration 3 days Destinations Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Hoa Lu District, Halong Bay Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Ha Long Bay Lux Cruises Tours From
- NZ$458
5-Day Northern Vietnam Highlights: Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“They've created a WhatsApp group from the beginning and she was very proactive and always responsive.”
Silva, traveled in April
Northern Vietnam's treasures await, from Hanoi's Temple of Literature to Halong Bay's 1,600 limestone islands. The trip features Trang An's UNESCO-listed caves, ancient Hoa Lu temples, and Titop Peak's panoramic views. Includes 4 nights in 3-star hotels with daily breakfast.
Duration 5 days Destinations Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Up Travel Vietnam From $628
12% Off- NZ$552You save $75
Halong - Lan Ha Bay 3 Day 2 Night 5-Star Cruise & Private Balcony Cabin
68 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The food, activities, the organization, rooms are so comfortable and so is the bathroom.”
IMARTINO, traveled in February
This deluxe cruise from Hanoi showcases Northern Vietnam's finest views. Halong Bay's limestone karsts tower overhead, while cycling through Cat Ba rainforest to Viet Hai village offers inland adventures. Private balcony cabins, gourmet dining, and daily kayaking through hidden caves create memorable moments.
Duration 3 days Destinations Hanoi, Halong Bay Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Ha Long Bay Lux Cruises Tours From
12% Off- NZ$543
Vietnam Tour: Melody Of Mountain and Sea In 8 Days
26 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Our tour operator was excellent. He was prompt, responsive, helpful and very proactive.”
Hui., traveled in December
Northern Vietnam unfolds over 8 days for around $1,100. The route winds through Hanoi's Tran Quoc Pagoda, includes a cruise on UNESCO-listed Halong Bay aboard Le Journey, and ventures into Sapa's rice terraces. Accommodations feature 3-5 star properties including Mina Hotel and Amazing Hotel Sapa, rated 4.9/5 from 10+ reviews.
Duration 8 days Destinations Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Dutch Operator Realistic Asia From $1,920
55% Off- NZ$864+$338 local paymentsYou save $1,056
TOP 1: 8-Day Explore the Best of North and Central Vietnam - Highlights & FULL Activities
56 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Each day was a new adventure for us, and everything was planned and coordinated down to the smallest detail.”
Stephanie, traveled in November
Northern Vietnam's cultural heritage shines from Hanoi's Temple of Literature to Halong Bay's limestone karsts. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum stands proudly, while Trang An caves in Ninh Binh offer underground wonders. Traditional village life complements comfortable accommodations.
Duration 8 days Destinations Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu, Halong Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Indochina Today Travel From $2,172
50% Off- NZ$1,086+$161 local paymentsYou save $1,086
7-Day Discover Hanoi with Sapa Trekking & Cruising in Halong Bay
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“My trip started at the airport and ended at the airport. The team is very professional and made sure that every thing goes smoothly.”
Rachelle, traveled in September
Northern Vietnam unfolds from Hanoi's ancient streets to Halong Bay's limestone karsts. Hike through Sapa's terraced hills, tour Hoa Lu's historic temples, and sail emerald waters with comfortable overnight accommodations.
Duration 7 days Destinations Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Halong Bay Age Range Operator Vietnam Adventure Tours From
50% Off- NZ$853
Ultimate 13-Day Vietnam Tour Experience
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Well organised tour and itinerary. It was great to have all airport transfers /pick ups arranged for us.”
Rosie, traveled in November
Discover Northern Vietnam's treasures from Temple of Literature to Halong Bay's limestone karsts. Stay at San Premium Hotel, trek Sapa's hills, cruise on Le Journey, and experience local life in Ta Van village homestay with expert multilingual guides.
Duration 13 days Destinations Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Dutch Operator Realistic Asia From $3,719
55% Off- NZ$1,673+$594 local paymentsYou save $2,045
Seven Days Discover Real Charm North Vietnam
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Brilliant overview of the highlights of Northern Vietnam.”
Rachel, traveled in July
Discover Northern Vietnam's highlights from the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter to the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay aboard Crown Legend Cruise. Trek through Ta Van village's emerald rice terraces, explore Ninh Binh's 'Ha Long Bay on land' by bamboo boat, and experience local life at a H'mong homestay. Includes cycling through rural villages and traditional cooking demonstrations with 4.8/5 rating from travelers.
Duration 7 days Destinations Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Sapa Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Vietnam Real Tour From
55% Off- NZ$806
Essential Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay and Beyond 5-Day
21 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Hotel was quiet and clean with fantastic breakfast and accommodating staff. The overnight boat cruise in Ha Long Bay exceeded expectations.”
Lyn, traveled in June
Hanoi's cultural landmarks like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature blend with UNESCO-listed Halong Bay cruises. The route includes Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temple at Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An's limestone caves by sampan boat, with stays at TK-123 Hanoi Hotel or optional 5-star Hotel du Parc.
Duration 5 days Destinations Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Halong Bay Age Range Ages 6+ Operator Legend Travel Group From $1,082
55% Off- NZ$487+$304 local paymentsYou save $595
Travel Northern Vietnam your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Northern Vietnam tours
These three agencies stand out among Vietnam tour operators, each with their own strengths. Wonderscape Travel has built quite a following thanks to Tony, their coordinator who's known for quick responses and genuine care - you can tell from how often our travelers mention him by name in their feedback. They've got their logistics really dialed in. Realistic Asia is another solid choice, and Long Pham runs a tight ship there. What makes them special is how they handle the little details throughout the whole journey, so you're never left wondering what's next or feeling unsure. Their team stays in touch and adjusts things as needed, which our travelers really appreciate. LVP Travel rounds out the top picks, particularly for northern Vietnam trips. They've earned a strong reputation for their guides who really know their stuff - especially around Hanoi and through Halong Bay. What's nice is how smoothly everything flows from one stop to the next with them. I noticed our clients often mention the personal touch from all three companies, but each has its own way of delivering that extra care - whether it's Tony's attentiveness at Wonderscape, Long's thoughtful planning at Realistic Asia or LVP's expert local knowledge.
Discover Northern Vietnam tours for every budget
Northern Vietnam tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Northern Vietnam travel itineraries to fit your plans
3 Day Itineraries
7 Day Itineraries
10 Day Itineraries
Demographics
Solo Travelers362 tours- Couples388 tours
- Seniors (50+)176 tours
Best time to visit Northern Vietnam
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter in Northern Vietnam really shines with clear skies and cool temps. The Northern Treasures route runs 8 days and connects cultural sites with mountain exploration - you'll start at the ancient Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi before heading up to trek Sapa's villages. Nature lovers often pick the 3-day Ba Be Lake and Ban Gioc trip where you'll paddle hidden waterways and stay with local Nung families who open their homes and share their way of life. First-time visitors tend to go for our 5-day Hanoi and Halong Bay combo - you get to know the city then spend a night cruising, with most of our guests telling us the sunrise over limestone peaks was a highlight. The Mai Chau Valley cycling tours work perfectly in winter too; the weather's just right for pedaling past rice fields and stopping at Thai villages along your route.
- popular 425 tours
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- 382 tours
- Spring 2026
Northern Vietnam offers outstanding spring tours, with our most popular 5-day cultural experiences winding through Hanoi and Halong Bay. The mild spring temperatures make exploring Tran Quoc Pagoda and navigating through Trang An's cave system particularly pleasant. Our 8-day Northern Treasures route naturally blends city discoveries with mountain excursions - you'll wander through Hanoi's Temple of Literature, hike among Sapa's villages, and then spend quiet mornings paddling in Halong Bay. Our travelers tell us that spring creates ideal conditions for both cultural visits and outdoor explorations. The itineraries feature authentic family homestays where you'll master local cooking techniques, while other routes combine cycling through Mai Chau Valley and drifting past the limestone formations of Halong Bay. Spring has become a favorite for photography enthusiasts since the soft light and comfortable climate create perfect conditions for capturing rice terraces, mountain vistas and local life.
- popular 385 tours
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- Summer 2026
Northern Vietnam shines during summer with three excellent tour options that our clients consistently recommend. The 8-day northern route kicks off at Hanoi's Tran Quoc Pagoda, then winds through Sapa where you'll walk alongside hill tribes through emerald rice paddies and spend nights with local families. Active travelers gravitate toward our focused 3-day Ba Be Lake and Ban Gioc trip, where you'll paddle through clear waters, venture into the expansive Nguom Ngao Cave network, and take a bamboo boat right up to Vietnam's largest cascade. The 6-day northern circuit combines culture with outdoor exploration in a way that works perfectly - travelers head out early for Sapa treks before the heat sets in, while afternoon Ha Long Bay cruises capture ideal sunset views. Our guides know exactly how to work with summer weather patterns, scheduling village visits during cooler hours, adding cooking classes in the afternoon, and catching that perfect morning light at Cat Cat village and across the terraced fields.
- popular 365 tours
- 365 tours
- 365 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn creates perfect conditions for exploring Northern Vietnam's mountains and valleys. Our 6-day Northern Odyssey really comes into its own this time of year - the temps make Sapa trekking particularly pleasant and you'll get beautiful evening light for photos in Cat Cat village. Cyclists often choose the O Quy Ho Pass routes where clear autumn skies make those long mountain descents even more rewarding. The 3-day Ba Be Lake tours work brilliantly in fall with ideal water levels for kayaking and also exploring limestone caves by boat. Many travelers pick our 5-day Essential Vietnam tour combining Hanoi's autumn festivals with visits to Bai Dinh Pagoda and also rowing through the mystical cave network at Trang An.
- popular 368 tours
- 363 tours
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Contact our Northern Vietnam travel experts
Claire
Expert in Northern Vietnam at TourRadar
Claire is one of our seasoned Northern Vietnam Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Northern Vietnam tours answered!
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+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Northern Vietnam Tours & Trips
What are the best ways to get around Northern Vietnam?
You've got several great options for exploring Northern Vietnam depending on your style and schedule. Public buses connect all the major spots and they're super affordable - you can even grab overnight buses for longer trips. If you're feeling adventurous the Ha Giang Loop is incredible on motorbike about 300km of stunning mountain roads and views that'll take your breath away. Need something more comfortable? Private cars and domestic flights are readily available and the train journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai for Sapa is actually a really cool experience.
Where can I find amazing spots in Northern Vietnam that aren't packed with tourists?
Ba Be National Park is this incredible UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that most people miss - you can take boat trips on Vietnam's largest natural lake and spend time with local Tay communities. It's pretty easy to reach by bus or car from Hanoi. Over in Cao Bang province you'll find the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave plus chances to meet Nung ethnic groups. Pu Luong Nature Reserve is another hidden gem with beautiful rice terraces traditional villages and peaceful hiking trails way less crowded than Sapa.
What kind of authentic local experiences can I join in Northern Vietnam?
You can actually take part in some really unique cultural practices here. In Ta Phin village near Sapa local Red Dao women share their traditional herbal bath experience and explain all about their medicinal plants. When you're cruising Ha Long Bay many 5-star boats offer spring roll cooking classes right on board. And in Mai Chau you can stay with Thai families in their stilt houses go cycling around the valley and really get involved in daily village life - travelers always rave about these experiences.
What natural areas can I visit outside the cities?
There are some fantastic national parks you can easily reach from the main cities. Ba Be National Park is perfect for boat trips and kayaking on Vietnam's biggest natural lake - just hop on a bus or car from Hanoi. Cuc Phuong Vietnam's first national park is easily reached from Ninh Binh and you can check out diverse wildlife hiking trails and visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. Cat Ba National Park on Cat Ba Island in Ha Long Bay is great for hiking exploring caves and spotting unique wildlife - just catch a ferry over and you're there.