14D13N VIETNAM EXPLORE: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Phu Quoc Island
Join with us on an unforgettable 14-day Vietnam tour featuring iconic destinations in Vietnam. Blending breathtaking scenery, authentic culture, and local cuisine, this Vietnam tour package is perfect for first-time travelers seeking an enriching and seamless Vietnam experience.
BOOK YOUR TRIPTOUR OVER VIEW
Experience the true essence of Vietnam on a carefully crafted 14-day journey through the country's most spectacular destinations. Sail across the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, uncover the peaceful landscapes of Ninh Binh, embrace the mountain charm of Sapa, and unwind on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc Island. Designed by Vietnam Essence Tours, this immersive Vietnam travel package perfectly balances breathtaking scenery, authentic cultural experiences, outdoor adventure, and tropical relaxation for an unforgettable holiday.
QUICK INFORMATION
Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights
Departure: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Ninh Binh - Sapa - Phu Quoc
Style: Adventure • Nature • Local Culture
Transportation: Car / Motorbike / Easy Rider
Each season offers its own unique beauty, from blooming spring flowers (Jan–Mar), lush green summer landscapes (Apr–Jul), peaceful autumn scenery (Aug–Oct), to misty winter mountains (Nov–Dec).
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
•Enjoy a luxury overnight cruise through the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay.
•Explore the natural and cultural treasures of Ninh Binh, including Trang An, Hoa Lu, and Hang Mua.
•Experience the mountain charm of Sapa, featuring Fansipan Peak, O Quy Ho Pass, and stunning viewpoints.
•Visit the spectacular Glass Bridge and the picturesque Love Waterfall.
•Relax on the white-sand beaches of Phu Quoc Island with plenty of leisure time.
•Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine and immerse yourself in local culture throughout the journey.
•Perfectly balance adventure, sightseeing, and tropical relaxation on this unforgettable 14-day Vietnam tour.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrival in Hanoi & Leisure Time in the Old Quarter
Overview: Arrive in Vietnam's capital, transfer to your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing day exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi at your own pace.
Distance: Noi Bai International Airport → Hanoi Old Quarter (~30 km)
Transfer Time: Approximately 45–60 minutes
Schedule
• Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport and complete immigration procedures before collecting your luggage.
• Meet your driver and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Hanoi.
• Check in after 14:00 (early check-in is subject to room availability).
• Spend the remainder of the day at leisure. You may stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, discover the charming Old Quarter, sample local street food, or simply relax after your flight.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Day 2 – Hanoi to Ha Long Bay Luxury Cruise Experience
Overview: Leave Hanoi behind and journey to the spectacular limestone seascapes of Ha Long Bay. Board your luxury cruise and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon filled with scenic cruising, exciting activities, and gourmet dining.
Distance: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay (~160 km)
Driving Time: Approximately 3–3.5 hours via expressway
Schedule
07:30–08:00 Hotel pick-up in Hanoi's Old Quarter (shared shuttle service).
08:00–11:30 Travel to Ha Long Bay with a short comfort stop along the expressway.
11:30–12:00 Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina and complete the boarding procedures.
12:00–12:30 Transfer by tender boat to your luxury cruise.
12:30 Enjoy a welcome drink, cruise briefing, and cabin check-in.
13:00 Savor a freshly prepared lunch while cruising through the breathtaking limestone islands of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
15:00–17:00 Join one of the afternoon excursions, such as kayaking, bamboo boating, cave exploration, or island sightseeing depending on the cruise itinerary.
17:30 Relax on the sundeck while watching the sunset over the bay. Happy Hour and onboard activities are available.
19:00 Enjoy an elegant dinner featuring Vietnamese and international specialties.
Evening Free time to unwind, try squid fishing, enjoy spa services (optional), or admire the peaceful night scenery before staying overnight onboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Cruise
Day 3 – Discover the Hidden Beauty of Lan Ha Bay
Overview: Wake up surrounded by the tranquil scenery of Lan Ha Bay and continue exploring its pristine landscapes through exciting outdoor activities before spending another relaxing evening on board.
Cruising Route: Lan Ha Bay exploration (~15–20 km by cruise)
Schedule
06:00 Start the morning with Tai Chi on the sundeck while admiring the peaceful sunrise over the bay.
06:30 Enjoy a light breakfast with tea, coffee, and fresh pastries.
07:30–11:30 Continue exploring Lan Ha Bay. Depending on your cruise itinerary, activities may include kayaking through hidden lagoons, visiting a floating fishing village, swimming in calm emerald waters, or discovering secluded beaches.
12:00 Return to the cruise for a freshly prepared lunch served in the restaurant.
14:00–16:30 Relax at your own pace. Unwind on the sundeck, enjoy spa treatments (optional), swim in the onboard pool if available, or simply admire the spectacular limestone scenery.
19:00 Delight in another delicious dinner featuring local specialties and international cuisine.
Evening Spend a peaceful evening onboard with optional activities such as squid fishing, cocktails at the bar, or stargazing before your second overnight stay on the cruise.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight Luxury Cruise
Day 4 – Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh Countryside Escape
Overview: Enjoy your final morning on the cruise before leaving Ha Long Bay and heading to the peaceful countryside of Ninh Binh, famous for its dramatic limestone mountains and rural landscapes.
Distance: Ha Long Bay → Ninh Binh (~200 km)
Driving Time: Approximately 4–4.5 hours
Schedule
06:30 Breakfast is served while the cruise sails through the quiet morning scenery.
07:30–09:00 Join the final excursion of the cruise, which may include a cave visit, bamboo boat ride, or another scenic activity depending on the cruise program.
09:30–10:30 Return to the vessel, complete check-out procedures, and enjoy brunch as the cruise heads back to the marina.
10:30–11:00 Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and begin your transfer to Ninh Binh.
11:30–15:30 Travel through the Red River Delta toward Ninh Binh with a short rest stop along the way.
16:00 Arrive at your hotel, check in, and take some time to relax.
Evening Free at leisure to explore the local area, enjoy regional cuisine, or rest after the journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ninh Binh
Day 5 – Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An Scenic Landscape & Hang Mua Viewpoint
Overview: Discover the cultural heritage and spectacular natural scenery of Ninh Binh as you explore Vietnam's former royal capital, glide through the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape, and conquer Hang Mua's panoramic viewpoint.
Total Travel Distance: Approximately 40–50 km
Schedule
08:00 Meet your local guide and depart from your hotel for a full day of sightseeing.
08:30–09:30 Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the first capital of Vietnam, where centuries-old temples preserve the legacy of the Dinh and Le Dynasties.
10:00–12:00 Board a traditional sampan for a peaceful journey through Trang An. Cruise past limestone cliffs, tranquil rivers, hidden caves, and lush valleys in one of Vietnam's most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
12:30 Enjoy lunch featuring authentic Northern Vietnamese specialties at a local restaurant.
14:00–15:30 Continue to Hang Mua and climb nearly 500 stone steps to the summit for one of the most spectacular panoramic views overlooking Tam Coc and the surrounding rice fields.
16:30 Return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace.
Evening Free time to explore Ninh Binh's local restaurants or relax at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ninh Binh
Day 6 – Hidden Countryside Experience & Overnight Journey to Sapa
Overview: Spend your final day in Ninh Binh discovering peaceful countryside landscapes before boarding an overnight VIP sleeper bus to the mountain town of Sapa.
Day Tour Distance: Approximately 60 km
Overnight Transfer: Ninh Binh → Sapa (~380 km)
Schedule
08:00 Depart from your hotel for a countryside excursion beyond the popular tourist routes.
08:30–12:00 Explore traditional villages, quiet rural roads, limestone valleys, and scenic landscapes while experiencing the authentic atmosphere of Northern Vietnam.
12:30 Lunch is served at a local restaurant.
13:30–16:00 Continue visiting lesser-known attractions, including peaceful waterways, hidden caves, and charming local communities.
17:00 Return to the hotel, collect your luggage, and enjoy some free time before departure.
21:00–22:00 Board the VIP sleeper bus for your overnight transfer to Sapa.
Overnight Travel comfortably through the mountains and arrive in Sapa early the following morning.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: VIP Sleeper Bus
Day 7 – Fansipan Peak, Moana Sapa & Alpine Coaster Adventure
Overview: Arrive in Sapa and spend the day discovering Vietnam's highest mountain, iconic mountain viewpoints, and exciting alpine attractions surrounded by magnificent scenery.
Local Travel Distance: Approximately 25 km
Schedule
05:30–06:00 Arrive in Sapa, freshen up, and enjoy breakfast before beginning your adventure.
07:30 Transfer to the Fansipan cable car station.
08:30–12:00 Ride one of the world's most impressive cable car systems to Fansipan Peak, known as the "Roof of Indochina." Explore Buddhist temples, admire spectacular mountain scenery, and capture unforgettable panoramic photographs.
12:30 Lunch at a local restaurant.
14:00 Check in at your hotel and take a short break.
15:00–16:00 Visit Moana Sapa, a popular viewpoint featuring creative photo installations with sweeping mountain backdrops.
16:30–17:30 Experience the exciting Alpine Coaster, offering both scenic views and an adrenaline-filled ride through the hills.
Evening Enjoy free time to explore Sapa town, discover local cafés, browse the night market, or sample regional cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Day 8 – Glass Bridge Adventure, Love Waterfall & O Quy Ho Mountain Pass
Overview: Experience one of Sapa's most exciting sightseeing days as you walk across a spectacular glass bridge, hike to a hidden waterfall, and admire breathtaking mountain scenery from the legendary O Quy Ho Pass.
Tour Type: Group Tour
Travel Distance: Approximately 50–60 km
Schedule
08:00 Meet your guide and depart from your hotel for a full-day mountain excursion.
09:00 Visit the impressive Rong May Glass Bridge, where panoramic views stretch across dramatic valleys and forest-covered peaks.
11:00 Continue to Love Waterfall and enjoy a leisurely forest walk leading to one of Sapa's most picturesque natural attractions.
13:00 Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties.
15:00 Stop at O Quy Ho Pass, one of Vietnam's highest mountain passes, for spectacular viewpoints and memorable photographs.
17:00 Return to Sapa and spend the evening at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Day 9 – Leisurely Morning in Sapa & Return to Hanoi
Overview: Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Sapa at your own pace before traveling back to Hanoi for the next stage of your Vietnam journey.
Transportation: VIP Sleeper Cabin Bus
Distance: Approximately 380 km
Travel Time: Around 6–7 hours
Schedule
Morning Enjoy free time to discover Sapa independently. Relax at a mountain café, visit local markets, enjoy a spa treatment, or shop for handmade souvenirs.
12:00 Check out of your hotel and prepare for departure.
13:00–20:00 Travel comfortably back to Hanoi by VIP sleeper bus.
Evening Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Day 10 – Fly to Phu Quoc Island & Beachside Relaxation
Overview: Leave Northern Vietnam behind and head south to the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc, where crystal-clear beaches and island vibes await.
Transportation: Domestic Flight
Flight Distance: Approximately 1,250 km
Flight Duration: Around 2 hours 10 minutes
Schedule
08:30 Transfer from your hotel to Hanoi Airport.
11:00 Board your flight to Phu Quoc Island.
13:15 Arrive at Phu Quoc International Airport and meet your transfer.
14:00 Check in at your beachfront hotel.
Afternoon Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach, enjoying the resort facilities, or watching the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Phu Quoc
Day 11 – Free Day to Enjoy Phu Quoc Island
Overview: Spend a full day at your own pace enjoying the beautiful beaches and relaxing atmosphere of Phu Quoc.
Schedule
Relax on the white-sand beaches, swim in the warm turquoise sea, or unwind beside the resort pool.
Optional activities include snorkeling trips, island-hopping excursions, spa treatments, or enjoying cocktails at one of Phu Quoc's famous beachfront bars.
Take time to experience the island's peaceful atmosphere before another overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Phu Quoc
Day 12 – Explore More of Phu Quoc at Your Own Pace
Overview: Another relaxing day gives you the flexibility to discover more of Phu Quoc's attractions or simply enjoy the island lifestyle.
Schedule
Choose from optional experiences such as riding the Hon Thom Cable Car, visiting nearby islands, exploring beach clubs, or browsing the lively Phu Quoc Night Market.
Alternatively, spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing at your resort.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Phu Quoc
Day 13 – A Final Day to Unwind in Tropical Paradise
Overview: Make the most of your last full day in Phu Quoc by enjoying the island at a leisurely pace before preparing for your departure.
Schedule
Enjoy free time for beach walks, swimming, shopping, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Pack your luggage at your convenience and consider celebrating your final evening with a memorable dinner at one of the island's seaside restaurants (at your own expense).
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Phu Quoc
Day 14 – Departure from Phu Quoc
Overview: Enjoy your final moments on Phu Quoc Island before transferring to the airport for your onward journey.
Distance: Hotel → Phu Quoc International Airport (Approximately 10 km)
Transfer Time: Around 20 minutes
Schedule
Breakfast at the hotel and check out according to hotel policy.
Private transfer to Phu Quoc International Airport.
Complete check-in procedures and board your international or onward flight.
Thank you for choosing Vietnam as your destination. We wish you a pleasant journey and look forward to welcoming you back again.
Meals: Breakfast
INCLUDED
•Visa stamping fee
•Fast track service landing in Hanoi
•Car transfer with Good A/C
•Hotel with daily breakfast, Good A/C – private room
•Experienced local English-speaking guide
•Meals as stated in the itinerary (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner)
•All sightseeing tickets
•24/7 hotline support guaranteed
EXCLUDED
•Incoming and outcoming flight – domestic flight
•Beverage, Personal expenses, tips and gratuities
•Travel insurance
•Early check-in and Late check-out (If not mentioned)
•Visa stamping fee (Vietnam: 35$/person)
•Optional ticket in day 8
•Other services not mentioned above
•Tipping fee for private guide & driver
WHAT TO BRING?
Essential Items
• Passport
• Comfortable shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal toiletries
• Small backpack
For Mountain Weather
• Warm jacket
• Raincoat
• Long pants
• Extra socks
• Gloves during winter season
Optional
• Camera / Drone
• Power bank
• Motion sickness medicine
• Personal snacks
BEFORE YOU GO
•The itinerary might subject to change due to weather or tide condition with our prior notice
•Schedule subject to change upon weather and operation conditions
•Promotion might apply, inclusions and exclusions might change – you will be informed of changes upon booking.
•All prices are in United States Dollars ($) unless otherwise indicated. Please note that prices quoted are subject to change. Price changes may occur by reason of matters outside our control which increase the cost of the services which we arrange on your behalf. Such factors include adverse currency fluctuations, fuel costs, taxes and accommodation increases.
WHY TRAVEL WITH VIETNAM ESSENCE?
Authentic Experiences
We create meaningful journeys that connect travelers with the authentic beauty of Vietnam, from local culture and hidden gems to everyday life beyond the tourist crowds.
Local Connection
Our experiences are designed together with local communities, guides, and hosts to ensure every journey feels personal, welcoming, and deeply connected to Vietnamese culture.
Carefully Curated
Every itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to balance culture, nature, comfort, and adventure, giving you unforgettable memories throughout Vietnam.
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