Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong - 6D5N Tour
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Trip length: 6 days | Trip code: HLVNT02
Trip Style: Comfort | Physical Rating: 3/5 | Trip Price: Upon request
Places visited: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 01: Hanoi arrival – Hanoi City Tour – Evening Walking Street Food
Day 02: Hanoi – Vintage Jeep Tour & Ceramic Town
Day 03: Hanoi – Ninh Binh
Day 04: Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay
Day 05: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi
Day 06: Hanoi – Departure
TRIP MAP
TRIP DETAILS
Day 01: Hanoi arrival – Hanoi City Tour – Evening Walking Street Food
Greetings to Hanoi, the pulsating heart of Vietnam! Its lively Old Quarter, adorned with ancient temples, vibrant shops, and French colonial architecture, weaves a captivating tapestry. Tree-lined streets, tranquil lakes, graceful pagodas, and bustling street life converge to make Hanoi one of Asia's most vibrant and enchanting cities.
Upon your arrival, you will be taken to your hotel.
Now, let's discover Hanoi's key attractions including the memorial complex of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam, exploring the mausoleum (viewed from outside), the presidential palace, and his stilt house. Nearby, see the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, built in 1049.
You will visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university established in 1076, with stone steles honoring Doctor Laureates. Explore the picturesque West Lake and Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda from the sixth century before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant (at your own cost).
After lunch, go to the hotel for check-in and relaxation, starting at 14:00.
In the early evening (04:30 – 07:30 PM), It's time to explore the Walking Street Food Tour and gain unique insights into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture. Discover the details of ingredients and delve into the historical backgrounds of popular northern dishes.
Rest and relax in your hotel.
Inclusions: Private vehicle, English – Speaking guide, Hanoi city tour, evening walking street food tour, Dinner, Hotel in Hanoi
Day 02: Hanoi – Vintage Jeep Tour & Visit Bat Trang Ceramic Village
At 8:00 AM, after breakfast, you will start a unique Hanoi countryside adventure by jeep (Duration: 4.5 hours).
Beyond the urban landscape, you will have a chance to learn more about Vietnamese culture by heading to Bat Trang village. Bat Trang ceramic town, established by the Red River in the 10th century, unfolds much like a historical tapestry. Our tour guide will lead you to the 700-year-old Bat Trang ceramic village, and drive through picturesque guava fruit gardens and verdant vegetable plantations. Immerse yourself in the traditional Vietnamese architecture and culture during your village exploration. As a special touch, craft your own ceramic item, creating a memorable takeaway from this enriching experience.
Detailed Itinerary:
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At 08:00 AM, the tour guide will meet and give you a brief of what you will do today.
Start a journey along the Red River dyke, we traverse through guava and vegetable gardens, integral sources of sustenance for Hanoi. Our destination is the Bat Trang ceramic village, where our knowledgeable guide will lead you through the maze of alleyways, offering insights into the daily lives of the villagers.
Within this walking tour, a visit to a ceramic workshop awaits, providing an opportunity to understand the intricate process of crafting ceramics. Additionally, you can challenge your creativity by designing your own ceramic bowl or teacup.
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By 12:30 PM, return to the hotel, allowing for some free time at your own pace.
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At 05:00 PM, conclude your day with a mesmerizing Water Puppet show, a distinctive northern Vietnamese art form depicting rural scenes and national historical episodes (Ticket included).
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The show commences at 05:20 PM, and you will walk from the hotel to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre at No. 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Sword Lake, Hanoi (a 1 km 15-minute walking distance).
Overnight in Hanoi.
Inclusions: Private vehicle, English-speaking guide, Visit Hanoi countryside, Water Puppet Show, Breakfast, Lunch in jeep tour, Hotel in Hanoi
Day 03: Hanoi – Ninh Binh's highlights
At 08:00 AM, check out the hotel and take a journey to Ninh Binh, reveling in the scenic beauty of rural areas along the way. Explore the Hoa Lu ancient capital, the historical Royal capital of Vietnam. Delve into the heroic histories of Dinh and Le Kings from the 10th century at the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, significant landmarks from the Chinese Wars.
Have lunch at a local restaurant (on cost).
In the afternoon, head to Trang An (10 km from Hoa Lu), where a small sampan awaits to take you through rice paddies, natural tunnels, and the mountainous landscapes, often referred to as 'Halong Bay on Land.'
At 16:00, visit Mua Cave, also known as Dancing Cave, to witness the panoramic view of limestone mountains in Ninh Binh.
By 18:00, check in the hotel in Ninh Binh and relax. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and overnight stay in Ninh Binh.
Inclusions: Private vehicle, boat, Hoa Lu – Trang An, Mua Cave sightseeing, Breakfast, Hotel in Ninh Binh
Day 04: Ninh Binh – HaLong Bay – Overnight on cruise (Joined Cruise)
After breakfast at the hotel, between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, check out and depart to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated as one of the most breathtaking places on the planet.
By 11:30 AM, you'll reach La Regina private lounge at Lot 24, Tuan Chau Marina in Ha Long. Enjoy a welcome drink and experience the breeze through an express check-in process before boarding.
At 12:15 PM, a speedboat will transfer you to La Regina Legend Cruises. Upon boarding, refresh with a welcome drink while the Cruise Manager provides a briefing on cruise orientation, activities, and onboard safety. The cruise sets sail to explore Lan Ha Bay.
By 13:00, enjoy a distinctive Vietnamese cuisine meal with unique flavors. Cruise to Light and Dark Cave, a prime attraction on Lan Ha Bay known for its pristine beauty. Explore the area by local boat or kayak, and take a swim in the emerald waters surrounding the cruise.
Return to the cruise at 17:30 and delve into the Bay's sunset during the "Happy Hour" special. Optionally, join the chef in the kitchen to learn the art of making traditional spring rolls.
If weather permits at 19:00, have dinner on the sundeck or in La Corona Restaurant on the second floor. Indulge in meals crafted from premium, fresh ingredients in a fusion style blending the essence of traditional Vietnamese cuisine with innovative modern influences.
Following dinner, choose between a fun session of squid fishing, spa activities (fees apply), or simply relaxing.
Note: The cruise itinerary may vary based on tide conditions, boat, and assigned route. The distance from Hanoi to Halong Bay is approximately 180 km, taking around 2.5 hours by car.
Inclusions: Private vehicle, shared cruise, English-speaking guide on board only, Halong Bay cruise, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board, La Regina Legend cruise
Day 05: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi
At 6:00 AM, welcome the dawn and practice Tai Chi on the sundeck in the fresh bay air with a steaming cup of tea or coffee.
By 06:45 AM, have a quick breakfast on board, and prepare for a journey to explore the Cat Ba World Biosphere at 7:30 AM. A 30-minute transfer from Gia Luan to Trung Trang unveils one of Cat Ba Island's most impressive caves, offering a captivating experience.
By 09:40 AM, savor lunch in the onboard restaurant as the boat voyages back to the harbor.
At 11:00 AM, bid farewell to the cruise crew and disembarked, returning to Tuan Chau Marina via our speedy boat.
Between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM, back to Hanoi check in the hotel, and enjoy the remaining time at your leisure. Overnight in Hanoi.
Inclusions: Private, shared cruise, English-speaking guide on board, Halong Bay cruising, Breakfast, Brunch on board, Hotel in Hanoi
Day 06: Hanoi - Departure
At 06:00 AM, check out and get to the airport for your departing flight. The hotel will prepare a breakfast box for you.
We sincerely appreciate your participation. Farewell, and until we meet again. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey!
Inclusions: Private airport transfer (no guide see off), Breakfast
Oct 2023
We spent 3 weeks in 3 different countries and our guides were knowledgeable and had expert knowledgeof our surroundings
Oct 2023
Mya, Anne and all the staff of Travel Authentic Asia exceeded our expectations in our family trip to Thailand and Vietnam.
Dec 2022
We had a great experience booking international travel to China, Vietnam and Thailand with Travel Authentic Asia. Mya was unbelievably
Nov 2023
Trang and her team at Travel Authentic Asia helped us make our dream a reality. Our group of 6adults contacted Travel Authentic Asia in March with a rough idea of what we wanted to do and see and thanks to their expertise and local knowledge
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Halong Bay Travel FAQs
Are Halong Bay cruises worth it?
Absolutely, a Halong Bay cruise is a must for its stunning scenery, cultural immersion in floating villages, tranquil ambiance, diverse activities like kayaking, luxurious accommodations with sunrise views, magical sunsets, delectable local cuisine, and endless photographic opportunities. It's a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, making it a truly worthwhile experience.
What is special about Halong Bay?
Halong Bay is special for its: - Limestone Karsts: Thousands of towering formations create a picturesque seascape. - Emerald Waters: The bay's waters boast a mesmerizing emerald-green color. - Cave Systems: Numerous caves with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. Floating Villages: Explore traditional fishing villages on the water. - UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its global cultural and natural significance. - Unique Flora and Fauna: Diverse marine life and ecosystems contribute to its ecological importance. Scenic Sunrises and Sunsets: Spectacular views during both sunrise and sunset. - Cruise Experiences: Unique boat journeys offer diverse activities and exploration. - Cultural Experiences: Interact with local communities and witness traditional performances. In essence, Halong Bay's beauty, cultural richness, and diverse activities make it a truly special destination.
How long does it take to see Halong Bay?
Typically, individuals often find it necessary to spend around 2 to 3 days in Halong Bay, either aboard a cruise or in a land-based hotel.
What is the best month to visit Halong Bay?
If your primary consideration is weather, then the time frames of September to November and March to May stand out as optimal for a Halong Bay excursion. During these periods, the dry climate and agreeable temperatures create an ideal environment, allowing you to fully partake in on-board activities and ensuring that sightseeing is as flawless as possible.
How long is the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
The journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay typically takes about 3 to 4 hours by road, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. Many tours and transportation services offer comfortable buses or private cars for the journey, making it a convenient and scenic route. The distance between Hanoi and Halong Bay is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles), and the travel time may vary based on the specific starting and ending points within the two locations.
