About this journey
Vietnam is a country of striking contrasts — from the misty limestone peaks of the north to the golden lantern-lit streets of the ancient central towns. This Discover Northern & Central Vietnam tour brings both worlds together in one unforgettable journey, taking you through the bustling charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter, the surreal seascape of Ha Long Bay, and the timeless imperial heritage of Hue and Hoi An. Walk through centuries-old temples and pagodas, cruise past dramatic limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, and wander the lantern-lined streets of a UNESCO World Heritage town. Along the way, discover the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, from fresh Hanoi street food to the refined dishes once served in the royal court of Hue. Designed for travelers who want to experience both the natural beauty and cultural depth of Vietnam, this tour blends iconic landmarks with genuine local experiences — offering a well-paced introduction to two of the country's most captivating regions.
Best time to visit
Northern & Central Vietnam is best visited from February to April or August to October, though the ideal window shifts slightly depending on which region you weigh more.
February–April: Generally the best overall window for combining both regions — cooler, drier weather in the North (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa) after the winter chill fades, and pleasant conditions in Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An) before the summer heat sets in.
August–October: A good secondary window, especially for the North, though this overlaps with the tail end of Central Vietnam’s rainy season (see below) — worth checking specific month-by-month conditions if your itinerary is Central-heavy.
Region-by-region breakdown (since “Northern & Central” spans different climate patterns):
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh): Best October–December (cool, dry, clear skies) and March–April (mild, blossoms in Sapa). Avoid January–February if you dislike cold, damp, foggy weather (Sapa can get genuinely chilly), and avoid June–August, which brings heat, humidity, and peak typhoon risk for Ha Long Bay.
- Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): Best February–May (dry, warm, less humid). Avoid September–November — this is Central Vietnam’s rainy/typhoon season, with Hue and Hoi An particularly prone to flooding.
Child Policy (applicable for the whole tour)
- Under 5 years old: Free of charge when sharing bed with parents. No services included (any additional services required during the tour will be paid by parents on the spot).
- From 5 to under 11 years old:
- Sharing bed with parents: 60% of adult rate
- With an extra bed: 85% of adult rate
- Sharing half room with one adult: 100% of adult rate
- From 11 years old and above: Charged as adult.
Maximum occupancy: Maximum of 2 children per room. An extra bed is mandatory for the second child (regardless of age) and includes buffet breakfast. Maximum of 2 children per room. An extra bed is mandatory for the second child (regardless of age) and includes buffet breakfast.
Tour highlights
Itinerary
Welcome to Hanoi city.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by our driver without guide, then transfer to hotel (standard check in time is at 14.00 – 15.00 PM)
At 14.00 PM, we will have the four hour our city tour. We will dive into the bustling Old Quarter, exploring its narrow alleys filled with shops and vibrant street life. Then, head to the French Quarter to admire its broad boulevards and French colonial architecture such as Hanoi Opera House. Then, we will conclude your tour with a visit to Train Street to experience the thrill of a train passing by (drink in Train Street is self-pay)
Relax and overnight in Hanoi city
Overnight in Hanoi city.
Have breakfast at hotel.
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Halong Bay on an unforgettable day cruise. Starting with a 7.20 – 7.45 AM pickup from Hanoi by shuttle bus, you will travel comfortably to Tuan Chau Island to board your vessel. Enjoy a five-hour journey through emerald waters, marveling at iconic limestone islets like "Cock Fighting" while savoring a delicious Vietnamese lunch onboard.
Explore the magical stalactites of Surprising Cave, then choose your adventure: kayak through the serene Luon Cave or hike Titop Island for breathtaking panoramic views. Afterward, unwind on the sun deck during the return trip, arriving back in Hanoi by evening filled with lasting memories.
Back to the hotel.
Please note: Cruise program may vary depending on the cruise. You will have station English speaking guide on board!
Have breakfast and check out from hotel.
Then, our driver will transfer you to the airport for the flight to Da Nang city.
Upon arrival, our driver will transfer you back to hotel (standard check in time is at 14.00 – 15.00 PM).
14.00 – 14.15 PM: The van and tour guide will pick you up at your hotel
Start your adventure with Cam Thanh Coconut. As a fisherman at Cam Thanh Coconut Village, you will learn traditional fishing techniques and how to row unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boats while exploring the tranquil coconut palm waterways of the past. On this tour, we provide authentic social and cultural insight into the local way of life in Vietnam. Furthermore, you will take part in some hands-on activities that are fun, safe, interesting and suitable for everybody.
Then, we visit the next destination, Hoi An Old Town.
• Go to the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, a colorful mélange of bright gates, dragon statues, and elaborate rooftops. Shopping at Hoi An Central Market. Get an introduction to ancestor worship while visiting the family altar and watching local devotees make offerings.
• You will see remarkably well-preserved old houses, such as Phung Hung Ancient House or Tan Ky Ancient House, that have withstood 200 years of weather and war. Learn about the prosperous merchants who used to live in these homes, trading with buyers from all around the world. Visit Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An A display of artifacts depicts ancient local daily life. Especially, you will enjoy art shows at Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House.
• Make a stop at the Japanese Bridge. The bridge spans a small waterway and was constructed more than 400 years ago to connect the Japanese community with the Chinese who lived on the other side of the water. Admire the carvings and paintings inside the bridge, learning about their symbolism and cultural significance.
• Additionally, visit some of Hoi An’s well-known handicraft shops and artwork galleries. Discover smaller laneways and local neighborhoods, gaining a better appreciation of Hoi An’s endless charm.
• Dinner with Hoi An specialty food.
Enjoy your time with the boat ride on the Hoai River and release the flower lanterns to pray for the best luck for you and your family. You will immerse yourself in the fanciful space of lantern street. Free your time with the night market and enjoy the shimmering space of Hoi An.
20.00 PM – Return to your hotel. End of our services!
Overnight in Da Nang city.
Have breakfast at hotel.
7h20-8h15 AM: We will pick you up from your hotel and join to our group to visit Sun World Bana Hills (Sun World Ba Na Hills is endowed with all climateand natural advantages for a tourist area) with the height of 1487 meters above the sea level. Here, visitors are immersed in experiences of European cultural tranquility and exiciting stops where festivities know no ends). This is the French high- quality resort in 1990s.
9.00-9.30 AM: The bus arrives to Bana Hills entrance, starting the journey up the mountain by cable car, achieving 2 world records - the longest in the world at 5,042.62m - the height difference between the two largest stations in the world at 1,291.81m. Visitors will stop at 3rd cable car station and visit around some points such as: Golden Bridge (golden hand bridge), 100 year-old Debay wine cellar, Love Garden - Le jardin d'amour, Linh Ung pagoda with a Gautama Buddha statue with 27m height.
11h30 AM - 12h00 PM: Having Indian lunch inside a buffet restaurant on the top of Bana Hills. You got free time to explore games in Fantasy Park, the largest indoor recreational area of Vietnam that spares hundreds of indoor games for families and children.
15.00 – 15.30 PM: You gather at the meeting points, checking belongings and enter the cable car to leave Bana hills.
15.30 – 16.00 PM: The group return to Danang city, and visit the local Silk craft village and local specialities foods on the way back.
17h00 – 17.30 PM:The bus will drop you at the same point picking up in the morning – finish the tour.
Overnight in Da Nang city.
Have breakfast and check out from hotel.
Then, our driver will transfer you to the airport for the flight to Phu Quoc island.
Upon arrival, our driver will transfer you back to hotel (standard check in time is at 14.00 – 15.00 PM).
In late afternoon, our cab will transfer you to the South for Kiss of the Sea show.
Enjoy the spectacular Kiss of the Sea, a world-class outdoor performance combining water, fire, light, and music effects. The show typically starts at 21:00 (9:00 PM) and runs daily, subject to weather conditions. Held in Sunset Town near Kiss Bridge, it delivers a breathtaking visual story against the ocean backdrop—perfect to end your evening in Phu Quoc.
Overnight in Phu Quoc island
Have breakfast at hotel.
We transfer you at 9.00 AM to discover a fascinating world of animals at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, the largest wildlife conservation park in Vietnam and the only one of its kind (semi-wildlife) in the country. Hop on our buses and enjoy a fantastic tour through the 380-hectare safari free of enclosures. See wild animals through a pane of glass while animals enjoy their natural habitats. Here you can also admire many interesting animals shows here.
Note:
- The Safari closes daily at 4:00 PM. There are two main areas inside: - The Safari zone – where guests ride a bus through open habitats while the animals roam freely outside.
- The Zoo zone – similar to a traditional zoo, where animals are in enclosures and guests walk around to view them.
The bus ride in the Safari zone is included in the entrance ticket.
However, the shuttle bus in the Zoo zone is optional and not included in the entrance ticket. Should you wish to use it, there is an additional charge of USD 5 per person.
This afternoon, we discover Vin Wonders Phu Quoc – the largest theme park in Vietnam, offering a great deal of interesting entertainment options, including exhilarating rides, waterpark slides, indoor games, street performances, musical fountains, 5D cinema and so many more to discover.
Overnight in Phu Quoc island
Have breakfast and check out from hotel.
Then, our driver will transfer you to the airport for the flight to Ho Chi Minh city.
Upon arrival, our driver will transfer you back to hotel (standard check in time is at 14.00 – 15.00 PM).
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city
Have breakfast at hotel and check out.
Our guide and car transfer you directly to airport.
Have a safe departure!!
What is included
Included
- - 7 nights accommodation based on double/twin/ sharing room in the category chosen or similar (subject to availability)
- - Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
- - All entrance fees and sightseeing as mentioned in the program
- - Boat trip(s) as mentioned in the itinerary
- - Transportation by vehicle with A/C
- o For 2 pax: 4 seater private airport transfers
- o For 4 pax: 7 seater private airport transfers
- - Water during tour day
- - Tour SIC transfer in shuttle bus basis
- - Complulsory tips included
- - Local English speaking guide(s) in Vietnam
Not included
- - Visa to Vietnam
- - Meals not mentioned in the program
- - Any flights (International & Domestic) and airport tax
- - Single Supplement; Early check-in and late check-out; Hotel/Room upgrade
- - Drinks, personal expenses and any services not mentioned in the program
Hotels and accommodation
- 3 star - Hanoi - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh city Moon View Hanoi hotel - Superior room Cosmos Da Nang hotel - Deluxe room White Lotus Hotel - Deluxe room
- 4 star - Hanoi - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh city Flower Garden hotel – Superior room Sandy Beach Resort Da Nang - Superior room Cicilia SG - Premium Deluxe room
- 5 star - Hanoi - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh city Grand Vista Hotel - Deluxe room DLG Da Nang hotel - Deluxe room Equatorial SG - Deluxe room
Tour gallery
Frequently asked questions
Which cities and regions does this tour cover?
The tour covers Northern and Central Vietnam, typically including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and the imperial city of Hue, along with the ancient town of Hoi An — refer to the detailed itinerary for the full list of stops.
What is the best time to visit Northern & Central Vietnam?
February to April is the ideal window, offering cool, dry weather in the North and pleasant, dry conditions in Central Vietnam before the summer heat and Central Vietnam's rainy season (September–November) set in.
Are there any black-out dates for this tour?
Yes. The tour is not available on Christmas & New Year's Eve (December 24th & 31st, 2025 and 2026), Vietnam Lunar New Year/Tết (February 4th–9th, 2027), Hung Kings' Festival (April 16th, 2027), Reunification Day (April 29th–30th, 2027), International Labour Day (May 1st, 2027), and National Day (September 1st–2nd, 2027). Dates for the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival black-out will be updated separately.
What is the child policy for this tour?
Children under 5 travel free when sharing a bed with parents (no services included). Children 5–10 are charged 60% of the adult rate sharing a bed with parents, 85% with an extra bed, or 100% sharing a room with one adult. Children 11 and above are charged as adults. A maximum of 2 children is permitted per room, and an extra bed (with buffet breakfast included) is mandatory for the second child.
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Vietnam?
Yes — the tour is designed to introduce travelers to Vietnam's most iconic destinations across both the North and Central regions, combining natural scenery, culture, and history in a well-paced itinerary.
What is included in the tour package?
Packages typically include accommodation, guided sightseeing, select meals, and transport between destinations — confirm specific inclusions and exclusions for your chosen package before booking.
Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check Vietnam's official visa policy for your passport country well before your travel dates, as requirements can change.
What should I pack for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for varying temperatures between North and Central Vietnam, and rain-ready gear if traveling near the shoulder seasons are recommended.
Can this tour be customized?
This depends on the tour operator — some packages offer fixed itineraries with set dates, while others allow customization of cities, duration, or activities. Check with the provider for flexibility options.
Option 2: PVT Basis
Applicable for groups of 6 PAX, 8 PAX and 10 PAX
Explore Vietnam on a private journey covering Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An, Ba Na Hills, Phu Quoc Island and Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Hanoi City Half Day Trip (NA) – PVT Tour with Guide
Welcome to Hanoi city.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by our driver without guide, then transferred to your hotel. Standard check-in time is 14:00–15:00.
At 14:00, begin your four-hour city tour. Explore the bustling Old Quarter, with its narrow alleys, shops and vibrant street life.
Continue to the French Quarter to admire its broad boulevards and French colonial architecture, including the Hanoi Opera House.
Conclude your tour with a visit to Train Street to experience the unique atmosphere and watch the train pass by. Drinks at Train Street are self-pay.
Relax and enjoy your evening in Hanoi.
Overnight: Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay 1 Day Trip on Indian Lunch Cruise – Hanoi (B/L)
Have breakfast at hotel.
At 08:00 AM, our local driver (no guide) will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to Ha Long Bay. Driving time is approximately 3.5–4 hours.
At approximately 12:00 PM, arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor, welcome aboard and attend the safety briefing.
Wego Cruise will take you on a 5.5–6 hour journey through the renowned Ha Long Bay route, famous for its striking uninhabited islets and limestone outcrops.
Enjoy lunch on the cruise while admiring the spectacular scenery of the bay.
At approximately 13:45 PM, arrive at the Bo Hon Archipelago and visit Surprising Cave to see its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Continue with kayaking or a bamboo boat experience at Luon Cave to discover its beautiful lagoon.
Visit Titov Island, with its sandy beach beside the towering limestone mountains. Climb Titov Peak for panoramic views of Ha Long Bay.
At approximately 16:30 PM, return to the cruise and sail back towards Tuan Chau Harbor.
At approximately 17:40–18:00 PM, disembark. Our local driver will transfer you back to Hanoi. Driving time is approximately 2.5–3 hours.
Cruise programs may vary depending on the selected cruise. An English-speaking guide will be available onboard.
Overnight: Hanoi
Day 3: Hanoi – Morning Flight to Da Nang City – Coconut Forest & Hoi An (B)
Have breakfast and check out from your hotel.
Our driver will transfer you to the airport for your morning flight to Da Nang, preferably before 10:00 AM.
Upon arrival, our driver will transfer you to your hotel. Standard check-in time is 14:00–15:00.
At 14:00 PM, our private transfer and tour guide will pick you up at your hotel.
Start your adventure at Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Learn traditional fishing techniques and experience rowing unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boats while exploring the peaceful coconut waterways.
Continue to Hoi An Old Town.
- Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall
- Hoi An Central Market
- Phung Hung Ancient House or Tan Ky Ancient House
- Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An
- Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House
- Japanese Covered Bridge
- Local handicraft shops and art galleries
Explore the historic laneways and local neighbourhoods while discovering Hoi An's unique cultural heritage.
At approximately 21:00 PM, return to your hotel.
Overnight: Da Nang
Day 4: Da Nang – Ba Na Hills Full Day Trip with Cable Car (B/L)
Have breakfast at the hotel.
At 09:00 AM, begin your full-day tour to Ba Na Hills.
Travel from Da Nang through the lush countryside to the base of the Ba Na cable car station.
Take a spectacular cable car ride up the mountain and enjoy breathtaking views of forests, waterfalls and valleys.
At the summit, stroll across the iconic Golden Bridge, held up by giant stone hands, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Continue exploring the French Village, with its European-style architecture, cobblestone streets and charming squares.
Lunch at an Indian restaurant.
Throughout the day, you can visit Linh Ung Pagoda, flower gardens and other attractions.
Ba Na Hills also offers attractions such as Fantasy Park for additional entertainment.
In the late afternoon, descend by cable car and meet your driver for the return journey to Da Nang.
Overnight: Da Nang
Day 5: Da Nang – Morning Flight to Phu Quoc Island – Kiss of the Sea Show (B)
Have breakfast and check out from your hotel.
Our driver will transfer you to the airport for your morning flight to Phu Quoc Island.
Upon arrival, our driver will transfer you to your hotel. Standard check-in time is 14:00–15:00.
In the late afternoon, our cab will transfer you to the south of the island for the spectacular Kiss of the Sea Show.
Enjoy a world-class outdoor performance combining water, fire, light and music effects against the ocean backdrop at Sunset Town, near Kiss Bridge.
The show typically starts at 21:00 PM and operates subject to weather conditions and the official operating schedule.
Overnight: Phu Quoc Island
Day 6: VinWonders & Vinpearl Safari Day Trip (B) – PVT Transfer Only
Have breakfast at the hotel.
At 09:00 AM, transfer to Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc to discover one of Vietnam's major wildlife attractions.
Enjoy a safari experience through open habitats where animals can be observed from the safari bus.
The attraction includes two main areas:
- Safari Zone – guests travel by bus through open habitats while animals roam freely.
- Zoo Zone – a traditional zoo-style area where guests walk around designated enclosures.
The safari bus ride is included in the entrance ticket. The Zoo Zone shuttle bus, if required, may involve an additional charge and is subject to the attraction's current ticketing policy.
In the afternoon, discover VinWonders Phu Quoc, a large-scale theme park offering rides, water attractions, indoor games, street performances, musical fountains and other entertainment.
Overnight: Phu Quoc Island
Day 7: Phu Quoc Island – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City – Leisure Time (B)
Have breakfast and check out from your hotel.
Our driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival, our driver will transfer you to your hotel. Standard check-in time is 14:00–15:00.
Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 8: Departure (B)
Have breakfast at the hotel and check out.
Our guide and private vehicle will transfer you directly to the airport for your onward flight.
