Welcome to Northern Vietnam, a region that offers an abundance of natural beauty, ancient cultures, and a unique way of life. With its lush green rice paddies, soaring limestone cliffs, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Northern Vietnam is a destination that has something for everyone. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, this post is here to help you discover the best attractions and things to do in Northern Vietnam. From the bustling city of Hanoi to the serene rural landscape of Sapa, join us as we explore the top destinations in this magnificent part of Southeast Asia.

The 4 Best Things You Have To Do In Northern Vietnam

1. Halong Deluxe Cruise 2 Days 1 Night Kayaking Swimming and Overnight Onboard
2. Alova Premium Cruise Deluxe Day Tour in Ha Long Titop Island Kayaking Expressway
3. Orchid Cruises Top Notch Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights to Visit Halong and Lan Ha Bay
4. Ha Long Premium Cruise Full Day With Expressway Lunch Explore Cave Titop Island

The 4 Best Things You Have To Do In Northern Vietnam

1. Halong Deluxe Cruise 2 Days 1 Night Kayaking Swimming and Overnight Onboard

Take an action-packed overnight cruise through Halong Bay with this 2-day, 1-night tour which includes a mix of on-board and off-board activities. Visit a beautiful cave, try your hand at spring roll-making with a cooking class, kayak and swim at sea, and visit a pearl farm. Accommodation in a private cabin with a bathroom on board is included, as well as all meals at no extra cost. An English-speaking guide will accompany you to Halong Bay attractions, and entry fees and the use of loaner kayaks are also included in the package. Customers may choose to arrange a transfer from Hanoi to the boat for an additional cost. Meeting directly at the meeting point or requesting a pickup are both available options. Join us for a thrilling 2-day tour of Halong Bay!

2. Alova Premium Cruise Deluxe Day Tour in Ha Long Titop Island Kayaking Expressway

Experience the beauty of Halong Bay with the Alova Premium Cruise Deluxe Day Tour, specifically designed for travelers who prefer a hassle-free and quick tour of the area. The tour offers several inclusions such as a kayaking or bamboo boat trip to Luon Cave, roundtrip transfer by shuttle bus or limousine, and an English-speaking guide to assist you throughout the trip.

The meeting point is at Tuần Châu Harbor/Tuan Chau Port, where you can go directly or request a pickup from your hotel or stay outside Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The pickup time is between 8:30 AM and 9:15 AM, while the group and guide will be waiting for you at Tuan Chau Marina Halong City at 11:50 AM if you are coming from Halong Bay.

During the tour, you can expect to explore five stops, which includes a visit to Old Quarter for 2 hours and 30 minutes and five hours of admission ticket-free exploration of Halong Bay. Other stops will also provide breathtaking views and experiences that will make your day an unforgettable one.

Please note that beverages, personal expenses, surcharges for Xmas, New Year’s Day & Lunar New Year’s Day, and pickup from hotels or stays outside Hanoi’s Old Quarter are not included in the tour package.

Experience the beauty of Halong Bay through Alova Premium Cruise Deluxe Day Tour and make the most of your Northern Vietnam vacation.

3. Orchid Cruises Top Notch Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights to Visit Halong and Lan Ha Bay

Orchid Cruise offers a 3 day 2 night tour of Halong and Lan Ha Bay, providing guests with an unparalleled experience of the region’s natural beauty. The tour includes an English speaking tour guide on the boat, all meals aboard, and shared luxury van transfer between Hanoi and Halong. Visitors can also opt for pickup from the Got Ferry in Hai Phong or book a limousine for an additional fee. The tour takes guests to Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay on the first and second day respectively, with stops at various scenic locations, before returning to Hanoi on the third day. Please note that surcharges apply for Xmas, New Year’s Day, and Lunar New Year’s Day, and that all other services not clearly mentioned are not included in the tour. Confirmation will be provided upon booking.

4. Ha Long Premium Cruise Full Day With Expressway Lunch Explore Cave Titop Island

Travelers who are running short on time but still want to discover the UNESCO World Heritage site in Halong Bay can take this full-day tour from Hanoi that is perfect for them. On this tour, you will travel from Hanoi to a traditional Asian junk from where you will be cruising around a section of the bay. There are a lot of fun activities involved such as visiting the Sung Sot Cave, hiking to the viewpoint on Titov Island, and kayaking. Our tour comes with roundtrip transfer from Hanoi to make things easier for you. You will also enjoy a tasty Vietnamese set menu lunch and welcome drink. An English speaking tour guide will accompany you throughout the tour. You can choose to go kayaking or bamboo boating, go swimming, hiking, and cave exploring. You can be picked up from your hotel outside Hanoi’s Old Quarter or head directly to the meeting point which is at Tuần Châu Harbor. You can also request pickup. Please take note that there is a surcharge for Xmas, New Year’s Day, and Lunar New Year’s Day.

Frequently Asked Questions about Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is a beautiful destination known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. When planning a trip to the region, many tourists have several questions about the best time to visit, the must-visit attractions, the accommodation options, and much more. In this blog post, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Northern Vietnam.

1. When is the best time to visit Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit the region is from September to November or from March to May when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. During these months, the temperature is around 20-25°C, and it is not too hot or cold. However, if you want to experience the blooming of flowers or the rice harvest season, visit during April or May.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam is home to many famous tourist destinations that provide a unique cultural and natural experience. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Northern Vietnam:

a. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous tourist spots in Northern Vietnam. Known for its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs, visitors can take a boat tour and explore the many caves and inlets, including the famous Thien Cung Cave.

b. Hanoi

The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is a fascinating mix of old and new with its narrow streets, ancient temples, and bustling markets. Do not miss out on visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and the famous Water Puppet Theatre.

c. Sapa

Sapa is a mountain town located in Lao Cai Province famous for its rice terraces, trekking trails, and vibrant local markets. The town is surrounded by picturesque scenery and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

3. What is the currency used in Northern Vietnam, and can I use credit cards?

The Vietnamese dong (VND) is the currency used in Northern Vietnam. Most major credit cards are accepted in urban areas, including Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller transactions and when visiting rural areas. ATMs are widely available in major cities, and most banks can exchange foreign currency.

4. What are some traditional foods to try in Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam is known for its diverse cuisine with plenty of flavorful dishes to try. Some traditional foods to sample include:

a. Pho

Pho is a staple Vietnamese dish made of rice noodles in a savory broth with various toppings such as beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts.

b. Bun Cha

Bun Cha is a dish made of grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

c. Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a French baguette filled with various meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

5. What are the accommodation options in Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam offers a wide variety of accommodation options that cater to every budget and travel style. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels, here are some options to consider:

a. Luxury Resorts

Luxury resorts such as the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake and Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh provide unique experiences and the ultimate luxury getaway.

b. Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels are a popular choice for travelers looking for a cozy and more intimate experience. Some favorites include the Hanoi La Siesta Hotel and Spa and the Alba Wellness Valley Hotel.

c. Hostels

Hostels are a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers, and Northern Vietnam has plenty of excellent ones. Some of the best hostels include the Central Backpackers Hostel and the Hanoi Rocks Hostel.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is a region full of natural, cultural, and historical wonders. From stunning mountains and valleys to iconic landmarks and diverse cuisine, North Vietnam has something to offer everyone. If you are planning a trip to this region and are not sure what to do or where to start, below are some recommendations for you to make the most of your time.

1. Explore the Capital City of Hanoi

Hanoi is the cultural and political heart of Vietnam, and no trip to the north would be complete without exploring this vibrant city. Some of the must-visit sites in Hanoi are:

• The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• The One Pillar Pagoda
• The Old Quarter
• The Temple of Literature
• The West Lake
• The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

In addition to the famous landmarks, Hanoi has an incredible street food culture that is definitely worth trying. You can find local dishes like Pho, Banh Mi, and Bun Cha in every corner of the city.

2. Trek Through the Rugged Mountains in Sapa

Sapa is a highland town located in the Lao Cai province. It is well-known for its stunning scenery of terraced rice fields and mountains. Trekking through Sapa is an unforgettable experience that allows you to discover the unique culture of the ethnic minorities in the area.Some of the best treks in Sapa are:

• The Muong Hoa Valley Trek
• The Fansipan Trek
• The Silver Waterfall Trek

Sapa is also home to several ethnic markets where you can see and buy local handicrafts and traditional clothing.

3. Take a Boat Cruise in Halong Bay

Halong Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.Taking a boat cruise in Halong Bay is the best way to explore the natural wonders and relax in a peaceful environment. Some of the activities you can do on a Halong Bay cruise are:

• Kayaking through the hidden lagoons and caves
• Swimming in the crystal clear waters
• Visiting the fishing villages and pearl farms
• Enjoying the panoramic views of the bay from the sundeck

4. Experience the Serenity of Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a province located south of Hanoi that is known for its serene landscapes and ancient temples. The best time to visit Ninh Binh is from May to June when the rice fields turn golden.Some of the must-see places in Ninh Binh are:

• The Trang An Landscape Complex
• The Tam Coc Rice Fields
• The Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

You can explore Ninh Binh by bicycle or motorbike, and there are several homestays and resorts that offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

5. Discover the History of the Vietnamese Communist Party in Dien Bien Phu

Dien Bien Phu is a city located in the northwest of Vietnam, close to the border with Laos. It is famous for the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954, which marked the end of the French colonization of Vietnam.Visiting Dien Bien Phu allows you to learn more about the history of the Vietnam Communist Party and its pivotal role in the country’s independence. Some of the sites that you should visit in Dien Bien Phu are:

• The Dien Bien Phu Victory Monument
• The Military Command Headquarters
• The Dien Bien Phu Museum

Book Your Tour Now

Northern Vietnam offers a wealth of cultural and natural experiences that can satisfy any traveler’s interests. Whether you are looking to explore the cities, trek through mountains, cruise on the bay, or discover the local history, North Vietnam is a destination that you should not miss. With this guide, we hope you have a better idea of how to spend your time as a tourist in Northern Vietnam.