Welcome to Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, an English-speaking guide from AVS will meet you and assist with your transfer to a hotel in the city center. Depending on your arrival time, begin exploring the highlights of Hanoi:

• King Ly Thai To Square: Dive into the history of Hanoi, beginning with the city’s founding during the Ly Dynasty.
• Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake): Visit Ngoc Son Temple, located on Jade Island in the lake’s center, and learn the legend of the sacred sword and golden turtle. Admire the scenic Turtle Islet nearby.
• Hanoi Old Quarter: Wander through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter, each named after the goods historically traded there, such as Silk Street or Silver Street. Stop at Ma May Street to visit a preserved ‘tube house,’ a classic example of traditional Hanoi architecture.
• Colonial District: Relax on a cyclo (rickshaw) ride through streets lined with French-colonial architecture, passing landmarks such as the Grand Théâtre, Métropole Hotel, and Central Post Office.

Conclude the day with a peaceful evening at your hotel, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

Dedicate this full day to discovering the cultural and historical landmarks of Hanoi, a city that seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with modern vibrancy:

• Temple of Literature: Explore Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucius. This serene complex is a symbol of education and a testament to Hanoi’s rich cultural history.
• Ba Dinh Square: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam’s beloved leader. Nearby, tour his humble stilt house and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, built in the 11th century.
• Ethnology Museum: Gain insights into Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups through a collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, and reconstructed homes.
• Water Puppet Show: Conclude the day with a unique cultural performance. This traditional art form, performed on water, portrays Vietnamese rural life and folklore with vibrant puppets.

Return to your hotel for a restful night.

Depart Hanoi for a scenic 4-hour drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden gem of lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and karst forests. This area is home to the Thai ethnic minority, known for their unique stilt houses.

• Arrive at Bản Lác Village and settle into Tý’s family stilt house, where you’ll be warmly welcomed.
• Explore the village and its surroundings, taking in the stunning landscapes and traditional lifestyle of the local people.
• Join your hosts in preparing dinner, learning about Thai culinary traditions. Share a communal meal and enjoy the hospitality of your hosts.

Overnight in a traditional stilt house for an authentic cultural experience.

Start the day with breakfast before embarking on a trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Pu Luong Nature Reserve:

• Hieu Waterfall: Trek along this serene cascade, passing through karst formations, dense forests, and picturesque Thai villages. Along the way, observe locals engaged in their daily activities, such as farming and fishing.
• Descend into valleys filled with terraced rice fields, waterways crossed by quaint wooden bridges, and small farms. The trek offers countless opportunities to capture the natural beauty of this rural paradise.

After lunch, transfer 3 hours to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land” for its dramatic limestone karsts rising from lush green landscapes. Settle into your hotel and relax for the evening.

Explore Ninh Binh’s extraordinary natural beauty and historical sites:

• Tam Coc Boat Ride: Embark on a traditional rowboat along the Ngo Dong River. Glide past rice paddies and karst mountains, and journey through three mystical caves carved into the limestone. Local rowers will guide you through this serene landscape.
• Cycling or Ox Cart Ride: After the boat ride, explore the surrounding villages by bike or ox cart, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
• Mount Mua: Climb 486 steps up a dramatic stone staircase to the summit of Mount Mua. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the Tam Coc area, with its lush fields and winding river.

Spend the night at your hotel in Ninh Binh.

Depart for Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and limestone islands. Upon arrival, board a traditional junk boat for an unforgettable cruise:

• Bai Tu Long Bay: Sail through this less-crowded northern section of Halong Bay, dotted with stunning islands and islets shaped like sails, dogs, and roosters.
• Thien Canh Son Cave: Explore this magnificent cave adorned with ancient stalactites and stalagmites.
• Kayaking and Swimming: Weather permitting, paddle through calm waters near Cap La or take a refreshing dip.
• Relaxation on Deck: Unwind on the boat’s upper deck as the sun sets over the bay.
• Savor freshly prepared seafood meals onboard and enjoy an evening of leisure, with options such as night fishing or simply gazing at the starry sky.

Overnight in a private cabin on the junk boat.

Rise early to witness the sunrise over the bay’s majestic karsts. Participate in a Tai Chi session on the deck to greet the day with energy and calm.

• Enjoy breakfast as the boat gently sails back to the harbor.
• Disembark and return to Hanoi, where you’ll have some free time for last-minute exploration or shopping.
• In the evening, transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight.

This marks the end of your unforgettable 7-day Northern Vietnam adventure with AVS. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Vietnam in the future!