Glimpse of North Vietnam: 5-day Budget Tour

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam's captivating capital city!

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our friendly tour guide will be there to greet you and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel located in the vibrant city center.

Once you've checked in and settled into your comfortable room, take some time to relax and rejuvenate. 

Hanoi Old Quarter is a treasure trove of history and culture. With its 36 streets showcasing traditional craft villages that have withstood the test of time, this lovely city will not disappoint you.

NOTE: Hotel rooms are usually available at 14:00, any check-in early will be applied with a surcharge.

Morning

Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, ensuring you have plenty of energy for your adventure ahead. Guests should take the opportunity to savor the flavors of local cuisine and fuel up for the day.

Your first stop is the renowned Temple of Literature, a historical gem, and the country's first university. Marvel at the exquisite traditional Vietnamese architecture as you delve into the rich history and cultural significance of this revered site.

Next, prepare to be captivated by the unique beauty of One Pillar Pagoda. This architectural masterpiece allows you to immerse yourself in Vietnamese Buddhist culture as you admire the intricate details and absorb the serene ambiance.

Continue your morning by paying a visit to the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh , a place of great historical and cultural importance. We would explore the modest house on stilts where the revered Vietnamese president resided and gain a deeper understanding of his influential legacy.

Conclude the Hanoi tour with a visit to West Lake where the Tran Quoc Pagoda is located. Experience the tranquility and spiritual serenity of this sacred site, nestled amidst the picturesque surroundings of West Lake.

Afterward, tourists have a chance to savor the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine while enjoying a delectable lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon

The afternoon is yours to discover Hanoi at your own pace. Roam the vibrant streets, get lost in the bustling markets, and let the city's charm unfold before you. Explore hidden alleyways, visit charming cafes, or indulge in some shopping for unique souvenirs.

NOTE: Depending on availability, the excursion will begin in the morning or the afternoon.

The afternoon is at your disposal — relax, explore, or consider one of our curated optional tours.

Option 1: I Am a Farmer - Half Day Experience

Your adventure begins at Buffalo Cave, where you’ll meet the group and set off for a day of authentic countryside experiences. The journey starts with time spent alongside the buffalo - feeding them, giving them a shower, and even trying a ride, offering a glimpse into the life of local farmers.

You’ll then join villagers in their daily routines, learning traditional ways of catching fish and stepping into the rice fields to experience planting Vietnamese rice by hand. These activities provide a hands-on connection to the rhythms of rural life.

The tour continues with a refreshing dip beneath a waterfall and a visit to the scenic Buffalo Cave. To end the day, you’ll take part in a cooking class led by the cave’s local cook, preparing traditional dishes before sitting down together to enjoy the meal you’ve created.

Option 2: Insight Hanoi by Scooter

After a safety introduction, we’ll begin the ride through Hanoi’s lively neighborhoods.

The first highlight is Banh Cuon restaurant, where steamed rice rolls layered with minced pork and mushrooms are prepared right before your eyes. This light but flavorful dish has been a breakfast staple for generations. Our Vespa then winds into the Old Quarter, a maze of vibrant streets and timeless shopfronts. At a restaurant with over four decades of history, you’ll try iconic plates such as Banh Goi and smoky Bun Cha.

From there, we head to the Red River Bank, where the refreshing breeze and wide-open scenery contrast with the city’s tight alleys. It’s the perfect spot to take in the broader beauty of Hanoi. The journey continues to Ngu Xa Village, a culinary haven famous for its noodles. Here, you’ll sample Pho and other delicacies enjoyed daily by Hanoians.

Scooters then glide along West Lake, Hanoi’s largest body of water, offering stunning sunset views. At the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the evening ceremony of lowering the flag leaves a lasting impression of national pride.

Before ending, delight in a cup of Egg Coffee, a creamy Vietnamese specialty born in 1946. Alternatively, enjoy Hanoi’s modern culture at a live acoustic bar, where cocktails meet soulful music.

Option 3: Manh Farm Tour and Cooking Class in Hanoi Half Day

Leaving the center of Hanoi, you’ll travel west to a traditional village market that has existed since the Lư King Dynasty in 1428. On market days, the atmosphere is especially lively, with villagers gathering to trade everything from farm animals to handmade baskets.

Even on quieter days, the market remains vibrant, offering fresh produce, meats, and daily essentials. Strolling through the stalls, you’ll see colorful displays, meet friendly locals, and get a glimpse of rural life that has changed little over the centuries.

Nearby, you’ll visit lush vegetable fields and fruit gardens growing a wide variety of produce such as bitter melon, corn, cabbage, papaya, guava, and bananas. Depending on the season, you may have the chance to meet local farmers, observe their work, and even join in for a hands-on experience while learning about traditional cultivation methods.

The experience continues at a local family home, where you’ll be welcomed into the kitchen for a cooking class. Guided by your host, you’ll prepare several traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from the garden and market.

After cooking, sit down together to enjoy the meal, complemented by fresh fruits, tea, and local drinks, while learning more about family customs and daily life in the Vietnamese countryside.

Morning

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, ensuring you have ample energy for the day ahead.

At 07:30, embark on a scenic drive to Ninh Binh Province, where you'll discover the captivating wonders of this region.

Begin your journey at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. This UNESCO-recognized architectural complex showcases the rich history of the Trang An World Heritage site, a must-visit cultural relic of great importance.

Prepare to be enchanted as we embark on a boat trip along the picturesque Tam Coc River which is adorned by the stunning limestone mountains. If time allows, we can take a half-hour walk up one of the limestone karsts for an awe-inspiring panoramic view.

Indulge in an authentic Vietnamese-style lunch in the charming town of Tam Coc, savoring the flavors of local cuisine and immersing yourself in the cultural ambiance.

Afternoon 

Relax and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as we journey back to your hotel in Hanoi. Take in the serene beauty and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.

Once you've settled in at your hotel, you can continue your exploration of Hanoi by yourself. Venture into the enchanting Hanoi Old Quarter, where the streets come alive at night. 

Rest well for tomorrow's adventures in the new captivating destination of Halong Bay.

Morning

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Hanoi, fueling up for an incredible journey to the mesmerizing Halong Bay - a majestic wonderland renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The morning starts early as a cruise gliding through the enchanting waters adorned with mesmerizing rock formations. 

Following your cruise itinerary, guests will join the captivating cave exploration by kayaking or bamboo boat. Beyond its awe-inspiring landscapes, Halong Bay has many magnificent caves, each exuding its unique charm. Depending on your chosen route, you'll have the opportunity to explore different caves.

After that, passengers would return to the comfortable boat, where a delectable feast of fresh seafood awaits. Indulge in the culinary flavors of the sea as you continue your boat journey.

NOTE: Please inform us in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences.

Afternoon

Upon returning to the harbor, a convenient shuttle bus will be ready to transfer you back to your hotel in Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter. 

As you settle into the vehicle, relax and enjoy the scenic ride from Halong back to the capital.

As the evening unfolds, the city of Hanoi comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. You are free to explore and immerse yourself in the charm of Hanoi at night. 

Indulge in a delightful morning at Hanoi Old Quarter as you savor a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel. 

After that, you can take your time to soak in the charm of this vibrant city, immersing yourself in its unique atmosphere at the last minute before the department. 

NOTE: The hotel's check-out time is at noon, so you still have time for the last morning in the captivating city of Hanoi. If you wish to extend your leisure time before your departure, we can arrange a late check-out for you (subject to room availability) with a surcharge.