Explore & Relax in Northern Vietnam
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Explore & Relax in Northern Vietnam
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Explore & Relax in Northern Vietnam

Many trips to Vietnam whizz from north to south, ticking off the main sites along the way, but there is much to see in the north alone. The scenery is lush, varied and breathtaking, and there are plenty of wonderful places to stay. You'll pick up the pace by exploring the surrounding landscapes before returning back to base to relax by a lovely swimming pool or choose from rejuvenating wellness experiences.

Of course, no trip to Vietnam would be complete without a bit of hustle and bustle, so there is time to enjoy the capital, Hanoi, at the end of the trip, with its vibrant history, culture, and epic food.

Highlights include:

  • Experiencing typical day-to-day life. From farmers harvesting rice and hill-tribe weavers in the countryside to flower sellers selling their wares from their bicycles
  • Discovering the far reaches of Halong Bay (La Hay Bay) where few tourists go
  • Taking in the fresh air, relaxing by the pool, and enjoying great hospitality at a range of lovely accommodation

The itinerary works particularly well in the spring and autumn when the weather is good in the north. Though it might suit second-time visitors to Vietnam who’ve already seen the main sites, we would also recommend it for first-time visitors looking to veer a little off the beaten track without missing the essence of what the country is about.  

As with all of our suggested itineraries, the holiday can be adapted to your tastes, your terms, and your timescale.

This is a sample itinerary which we will tailor to suit you. Prices are dependent on destination, flights & dates but ETG holidays always include the following:

  • International flights (if required)
  • Guides, drivers & their tips
  • Accommodation
  • Specified meals & snacks
  • Your immersive experiences
  • Internal & regional transfers

Get in touch with us for your bespoke proposal
or see more on our ETG Pricing Guide

Call for a bespoke proposal 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

Day 1 Depart The UK 

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Hanoi. 

Day 2 BA VI MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK 

On arrival, your local guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to Ba Vi Mountain National Park. The forested area is just a 55km drive but feels like a world away from the bustling city, offering a tranquil gateway to the country’s mountainous, scenic north and a lovely place to relax after your flight. 

Day 3-5 Picturesque Mai Chau Valley 

Travel overland by private vehicle to Mai Chau, driving over mountain passes until the green, fertile valley of Mai Chau comes into view. Check in to the beautiful Avana Retreat in the heart of the countryside. This area is blessed with hidden springs, waterfalls, bamboo forests and ethnic villages that can be explored on foot. Spend your time in nature exploring the culture and scenery of the region and enjoying the quality facilities at the lovely property you’re staying at. Treks, kayak trips and various other adventures can be arranged to suit your chosen pace. 

Day 6 & 7 UNESCO Heritage in Ninh Binh 

Today, you’ll depart from Mai Chau Valley, stopping to break the journey at Cuc Phuong, the largest national park in Vietnam. The park boasts a stunning array of flora and fauna and is one of the country's most important sites for biodiversity. There is the option to take a trek along the jungle trails to pass century-old trees, rare plant life, and stunning vistas of the park. 

Later, travel onwards to the UNESCO Heritage site Trang An Ecosystem. Here, you’ll board a rowing boat to travel along the small river and explore the caves and river surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains and green field landscapes. You’ll stay in a boutique retreat with a lovely swimming pool in the paddy fields.  

Optional activities during your stay here include a cycle ride on a tranquil and peaceful trail. Soak in the magnificent beauty of the surrounding beautiful limestone mountains, and a short hike will take you to the top of Hang Mua for an aerial view of the region, and you will have a chance to visit Bai Dinh Temple, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist temple complex and an important pilgrimage site. 

Day 8 Sacred Yen Tu Mountain 

Depart Ninh Binh by road to the Yen Tu Mountain region, where you’ll check in to MGallery Legacy Yen Tu. Meticulously designed by renowned designer Bill Bensley, this is another beautiful retreat in a contrasting off-the-beaten-track location at the foot of sacred Yen Tu Mountain, just an hour’s drive from Halong Bay. 

Day 9 & 10 Halong and Lan Ha Bay  

Depart mid-morning to begin your two-night Ylang cruise on “Halong” Bay. Spending two nights on the bay gives you time to explore the further reaches of the bay and into La Hay Bay, where far fewer tourists venture. Embark on a delightful cycling adventure to explore a quaint village in a valley on the lush Cat Ba Island, surrounded by dense jungle. The itinerary also features a kayaking expedition through the intricate maze of islands in the bay. 

Day 11-13 Hanoi  

Your guide will meet you off the boat for the journey back to Hanoi. The capital is packed with culture, history and vibrant day-to-day life. Travelling by jeep, cyclo or Vespa, you’ll learn about the history and cultural traditions, get lost in the alleyways of the old quarter and taste some of the street food for which Hanoi is famous.    

Day 14 Depart Vietnam  

Depart Hanoi for your flight back to the UK. 

Speak to an expert 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

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Every holiday we create is unique. One of our team can talk you through your options...

Hotels & Villas
featured above

Avana Retreat

Avana Retreat, Mai Chau

A hidden gem in the mountains and forests, Avana Retreat, offers incredible natural surroundings with many activities and a Cloud Pool.

Heritage Line Cruises

Heritage Line Cruises, Halong Bay

Deluxe junk boats cruising the spectacular Ha Long Bay

Melia Ba Vi Mountain Retreat

Melia Ba Vi Mountain Retreat, Hanoi

A relaxing retreat set on a forested mountain range with spectacular views and cool temperatures.

MGallery Legacy Yen Tu

MGallery Legacy Yen Tu, Yen Tu

12th century monastery turned luxury hotel in an off-the-beaten-track location in Northern Vietnam.

Nham Village

Nham Village, Ninh Binh

Nham Village is a small and peaceful retreat in the countryside of Tam Coc in Northern Vietnam, offering beautiful scenery, swimming pool, and a spa.

Sofitel Legend Metropole

Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi

Hanoi's finest luxury hotel fusing colonial-era grandeur and modern style, with a history dating back to 1901.

Experiences & Activities
featured above

A Hanoi Food Story

A Hanoi Food Story, Hanoi

Experience and taste the essence of historical Hanoi in Vietnam.

Exploring Ninh Binh & Tam Coc by bike

Exploring Ninh Binh & Tam Coc by bike, Ninh Binh

Cycle around Ninh Binh's limestone mountains and vibrant green fields on this countryside your of the province

Junk Boat on the Breathtaking Bay

Junk Boat on the Breathtaking Bay , Halong Bay

Cruise Vietnam's breathtaking Halong Bay aboard a converted traditional Junk Boat.

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Let us inspire you
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