- Explore Hanoi's historic landmarks, including the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Cruise through the spectacular limestone karsts of UNESCO-listed Halong Bay aboard a premium day cruise.
- Experience the peaceful Ninh Binh with waterways of Trang An & Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital
- Ride one of the world's longest cable cars to Ba Na Hills and walk across the famous Golden Bridge.
- Wander through the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Travel comfortably with private transportation, domestic flights and experienced local guides.
Why We Designed This Route
Many travellers ask why this itinerary combines Northern and Central Vietnam instead of trying to cover the entire country.
Our travel specialists carefully designed this route to maximize your experience while minimizing long travel days. Beginning in Hanoi allows you to discover Vietnam's rich cultural heritage before heading to nearby Ninh Binh and Halong Bay, two of the country's most spectacular UNESCO destinations. A short domestic flight then brings you to Central Vietnam, where Da Nang and Hoi An offer a completely different atmosphere with beautiful beaches, mountain scenery and centuries-old trading heritage.
This itinerary provides an excellent balance between sightseeing, relaxation, cultural experiences and natural landscapes, making it one of our most popular Vietnam tour packages for first-time visitors.
Who Is This Tour Suitable For?
This itinerary is perfect for:
- First-time visitors wanting to experience Vietnam's most famous destinations.
- Couples seeking a romantic journey through Vietnam's cultural and natural highlights.
- Families looking for a private, flexible itinerary suitable for children.
- Senior travellers who prefer a comfortable travel pace without long overland journeys.
- Friends travelling together who enjoy history, nature and authentic local experiences.
- Travellers with limited holiday time who want to experience the best of Vietnam in just eight days.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
This 8-day itinerary can be enjoyed throughout the year thanks to Vietnam's diverse climate. However, the most comfortable travel periods are from March to May and September to November, when temperatures are pleasant across both Northern and Central Vietnam.
Spring offers clear skies, blooming flowers and ideal sightseeing conditions in Hanoi, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Autumn brings comfortable temperatures, lower humidity and beautiful scenery, making it one of the best times for photography and outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is warmer with occasional tropical showers, while winter (December to February) offers cooler weather in the north and mild sunshine in Central Vietnam.
Our travel specialists will always recommend the most suitable itinerary based on your travel dates and weather conditions.
Travel Tips Before You Go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as several destinations include uneven paths and temple steps.
- Bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the warmer months.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples, pagodas and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum by covering your shoulders and knees.
- Carry some Vietnamese Dong for small purchases, local markets and optional tips.
- Keep your passport handy for domestic flights and hotel check-ins.
- If you are travelling during the rainy season, a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella is recommended.
- Don't forget your camera, as Halong Bay, Trang An and Hoi An offer some of Vietnam's most spectacular photo opportunities.
Why Travel with Viet Exquisite Travel?
Choosing the right travel company can make all the difference to your Vietnam holiday. At Viet Exquisite Travel, we specialize in creating personalized journeys that combine authentic local experiences with professional service and attention to detail.
Why travellers choose us:
- Fully private and customizable itineraries.
- Experienced English-speaking local guides.
- Carefully selected hotels and trusted travel partners.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
- Flexible travel planning tailored to your interests.
- 24/7 local support throughout your journey.
- Genuine local expertise developed through years of organizing tailor-made holidays across Vietnam.
Our goal is simple: to help you experience Vietnam comfortably, authentically and with complete peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is 8 days enough to visit Vietnam? Yes. Eight days is ideal for exploring Vietnam's highlights, including Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay and Hoi An, at a comfortable pace.
2. Can I customize this itinerary? Absolutely. We can tailor the itinerary, accommodation, activities and travel pace to suit your preferences.
3. Is this tour suitable for families with children? Yes. This private tour is family-friendly and can be adjusted to accommodate children of all ages.
4. What type of hotels are included? We offer carefully selected 3-star, 4-star or 5-star hotels based on your budget and preferences.
5. Is the Halong Bay cruise private or shared? The transfer can be private or shared, while the cruise experience is usually shared unless you request a private charter.
6. Are domestic flights included? Domestic flights can be included upon request and will be clearly listed in your quotation.
7. Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam? Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Contact us for the latest visa information and assistance.
8. What should I pack for this trip? Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
9. When is the best time to take this tour? The best time is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant across most destinations.
10. Can vegetarians or special dietary requirements be accommodated? Yes. Please let us know your dietary requirements in advance, and we'll make the necessary arrangements.
DAY 1: HANOI ARRIVAL
“Xin chào” - Welcome to Hanoi. You will be welcomed by Viet Exquisite Travel's guide and driver upon arrival then transfer to hotel in city for check in. (Check in time: 14.00. Early check in at surcharge). Free at leisure on your own.
Located at the center of Red River Delta and with more than one thousand years’ history, Hanoi became the capital of Vietnam. Visiting Hanoi, you will not only witness a busy developing city through modern architects and busy streets but also learn more about history, culture, nature and friendly local people
Overnight at hotel in Hanoi
- Meals: No
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
- Transportation:Car/Van/Coach
DAY 2: HANOI FULL DAY CITY TOUR
After breakfast, 8:30 AM we begin the full day city tour with Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and “House on stilt” at the same area with the Presidential Palace. We will then continue to the One Pillar Pagoda and the 900-year old Temple of Literature, the principal Vietnamese Confucian sanctuary, and its historical centre of learning. Made up of five courtyards, this is one of the few remnants of the original city. Lunch at local restaurant ( by your own account).
In the afternoon visit the fascinating Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays), which is both a research centre and a public museum exhibiting the ethnic groups of Vietnam. After that, you will enjoy one hour cyclo tour through the maze of bustling streets that make up Hanoi’s Old Quarter, then visit the colorful local markets where we meet stall holders and talk about their food and learn about local culinary. Then continue along both high streets and back streets exploring many corners in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Finish the day with a Water Puppet show. This is a uniquely northern Vietnamese art form depicting scenes from rural life and episodes of national history. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
- Transportation:Car/Van/Coach
DAY 3: HANOI – NINH BINH (B)
At 8:00 AM, our driver pick you up from hotel in the Old Quarter and start driving to Ninh Binh, on the way, you experience the peaceful scenery along the Highway 1A. Arrive Hoa Lu & meet our local guide there, the old capital and see the two attending temples Dinh King and Le King. Those who wish it can go up to the Hoa Lu panorama viewpoint to take pictures, and enjoy the stunning scenery, mountains, elves and temples.
We then travel to Trang An about 16 km from Hoa Lu. Visit Trang An, which was recognized by UNESCO as A World Heritage Site in 2014. Trang An has a wonderful tunnel cave system that no place like it. With 2 hours-boat trip, you will be persuaded by the beauty here
Our driver takes you to Bich Dong Pagoda, climb a little bit till you get to the top of the Upper pagoda and your eyes catch the overall panorama of the paddy fields in Truong Yen Mountain. The king once conferred on Bich Dong the title “The Second Most Beautiful Grotto in Vietnam”After the tour, our driver takes you back to your hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
- Transportation:Car/Van/Coach
DAY 4: NINH BINH - HALONG BAY DAY CRUISE
Early breakfast in hotel.
Our driver takes you to Ha Long-bay, one of the largest natural experiences in Asia. By the way, we experience the landscape around the red river valley with marshlands, rice fields and the local farmers' daily habits.
09:45: Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Harbour, you will check-in, get on board, enjoy welcome drink then starts a trip to discover the Halong bay.
10:00: The cruise departs from Tuan Chau Harbor for a joyful journey to discover the beauty of the world heritage. Along the way, you will have chance to pass through the grandeur of the legendary bay with thousands of limestone islands such as: Dog Rock, Duck Rock, Thumb Rock.
12:00: Have a huge buffet lunch with variety of dishes including seafood and Vietnamese traditional food.
13:00: Our tour guide will take you to Surprising Cave, the largest and the most beautiful cave in Halong Bay. You will discover the cave in about 45 minutes before getting back to the cruise.
14:00: The cruise heads to Luon Cave. In this area, it’s time for you to heat up kayaking, for about 30 minutes.
15:00: Stop at Titov Island. On this island, you can climb halfway up the mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of Halong Bay. Looking down from high above gives you a wonderful sensation; at the same time offers you a spectacular view of every corner of the bay.
16:00: After that, you will get back on the cruise and ready for our Sunset Party. Vietnamese tea, cakes, fresh fruits and snacks will be served when you’re relaxing on the sundeck or in the Jacuzzi.
On the way back, cruise will pass by Hoa Cuong area, one of the most beautiful spots in the bay.
17:30-18:00: Arrive in Tuan Chau Harbour.
20:15 – 20:45: Drop off our guests in Hanoi Old Quarter, end of the trip.
Back to your hotel in Hanoi & overnight there.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
- Transportation: Flight/Car
DAY 5: HANOI – DANANG/ MARBLE MOUNTAIN - SON TRA PENNINSULA - DRAGON BRIDGE - MY KHE BEACH - HOI AN / Domestic Flight
Breakfast at your hotel, our driver will come to pick up & take you directly to Noi Bai airport for your flight to Danang.Our guide & driver will come to pick you up then depart for Son Tra Peninsula, home to lush landscapes and impressive viewpoints.Visit Linh Ung Pagoda, famous for the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue, offering breathtaking views of Da Nang’s coastline. Look out for the rare, red-shanked douc langurs, unique to this region.Continue to the city center for lunch at a local restaurant.Enjoy a brief city drive highlighting Da Nang’s modern landmarks, including a stop for photos at the iconic Dragon Bridge, a symbol of the city’s dynamic spirit.Transfer to hotel in Hoi An for check in.Overnight at hotel in Hoi An.- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hoian
- Transportation: Car/Van/Coach
DAY 6: HOI AN - BANA HILLS & GOLDEN BRIDGE - HOI AN (B)
Breakfast at your hotel.
Depart for Ba Na Hills. The adventure begins with a ride on the modern cable car to Ba Na Hills, offering stunning views of Da Nang City. First, you’ll visit the famous Golden Hands Bridge, known for its unique structure and recognized as one of the world’s most iconic pedestrian bridges.
Explore the beautiful France Wine Cellar, the charming Le Jardin D’ Amour gardens, and the peaceful Linh Ung Pagoda. Next, enjoy a second cable car ride to the French Village where you can enjoy street music, art statues, and visit attractions like the Campanile, Nine Floor Goddess Shrine, and the Linh Phong Monastery. Don’t miss the Linh Chua Linh Tu Temple and Tru Vu Tea Shop for a unique cultural experience.
For some fun, watch the Carnival Performance Show and take on the thrilling Slide of Tube Car (free ride).
Buffet lunch at a restaurant (by your own account).
Dive into the excitement of Fantasy Park, where you can walk through the Fairy Forest, explore Dinosaur Park, play 5D Wild West, enjoy the 4D Death Race ride, and more. For a real adrenaline rush, try the Free Fall Tower and adventure through the Horror House.
At about 3:00 pm, you’ll take the cable car back down and our minivan will bring you back to your hotel.
On the way back, stop to visit Marble Mountain, a cluster of limestone hills famous for its caves, pagodas, and panoramic views. Visit Thuy Son (Water Mountain), the largest and most popular peak.
Explore Huyen Khong Cave, a mystical cave with a Buddhist sanctuary. Admire the stunning architecture of Tam Thai Pagoda and Linh Ung Pagoda. Stop by the local stone-carving village at the mountain’s base.
Overnight at your hotel in Hoi An.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hoian
- Transportation: Flight/Car
DAY 7: CAM THANH COCONUT VILLAGE & HOIAN ANCIENT TOWN WALKING TOUR
Arrive Cam Thanh village, you will experience basket boat ride around the coconut forest, learn about the daily life of Vietnamese fishermen, their families and their community. Local people will teach you how to paddle the Vietnamese unique bamboo basket boat. You will hear stories of past wars and the harsh conditions that soldiers have to endure.
This afternoon, we enjoy a half-day walking tour through the narrow winding streets of the Ancient Quarter visiting Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Halls, the 200-year-old Tam Ky ancestral house, and the Japanese Bridge. From the 16th to 18th centuries, Hoi An was a thriving international commercial port for Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab traders. These people came primarily to trade in the high grade silk, which is still produced in the area, as well as ceramics. Today, Hoi An is a quaint riverside town, popular with tourists for its eclectic architecture, tailors shops, and numerous cafes. Some of the buildings in the narrow streets have remained unchanged for more than a century.
Overnight at hotel in Hoian.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hoian
- Transportation: Flight/Car
DAY 8: HOI AN - DA NANG DEPARTURE
Coming to the end of your journey, enjoy some free time before your flight home. If time permits, shop around for some last minute purchases or simply relax before your onward departure flight.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: No
- Transportation: Flight/Car
- Accommodation in shared twin room with air-condition (AC) and private bathroom (Check in time: 14.00/ Check out time: 12.00)
- Meals as stated in the programme B= breakfast, L= lunch, D= dinner
- Transfers and tours with local English speaking guides in private air-conditioned vehicles
- All entrance fees, boat fees and / or cyclo fees as mentioned in the programme
- Drinking water and cold towels available on the vehicles
- International and Domestic flights (quoted separately, if requested)
- Surcharges for other language guides
- Surcharges for night-time services, especially applied for transfers with arrivals after 23:00 hrs and arrivals or departures before 06:00 hrs.
- Surcharges for Lunar New Year (TET) holiday, Peak season and Compulsory Gala Dinner (TBA at booking time)
- Personal travel insurance
- Personal expenditure, such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, camera fees, communications, postage, gratuities etc.
- Meals and services other than mentioned in the programme
- Drinks with meals
- Visa
- Early check-in and late check-out at hotels, if not mentioned in the programme
- Tips
