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Northern Vietnam is a thousand years of cultural land of Vietnamese people, bearing the marks of history. Research shows that the ancestors of Vietnamese people early had a developed civilization in the North. Red River Delta is considered the cradle of Vietnamese culture and is home to a predominantly ethnic Vietnamese population.
Northern Vietnam countryside in the past, some still exist today
Northern Vietnam holds enchanting natural landscapes and architectural masterpieces crafted by skilled human hands. With expansive terraced rice fields in Sapa, ancient streets in Hanoi, or majestic Ha Long Bay, Northern Vietnam awaits your exploration.
To fully discover the beauty of this land in Vietnam tour 5 Days, Asia King Travel would like to suggest some best itineraries for you. Through these itineraries, we hope you can find the most suitable trip for your preferences. Let’s find out right below the article.
Northern Vietnam experiences four seasons, each one has a distinctive charm. In general, the most popular times to visit are during the spring (February to April) and autumn (September to November) months.
Spring is a magical time when the region comes alive with renewed energy. The sun's rays are starting to reappear and the temperature is gradually rising. However, the weather remains warm not yet hot. Drizzle is the clearest sign spring is coming. You can feel the tiny raindrops flying in the wind, with a hint of moisture mixed with the fresh scent of herbs.
Nhat Tan peach blossoms garden in Hanoi
Every spring, Northern Vietnam wears a new pink coat of peach blossoms signaling the arrival of Tet (Lunar New Year). Tet's unique customs create a lasting impression during your trip. Come to the region during Tet at least once to experience the rich cultural life of Vietnamese people.
Autumn has a similar climate to spring with pleasant temperatures and slight chilly winds. Gentle sunshine filters through the trees, creating a dreamy atmosphere. This is the perfect time for sightseeing. Experience a touch of romance in Hanoi streets or marvel at the golden rice terraces in Northwest, shining brightly under the blue sky.
Touring Vietnam's iconic destinations famous worldwide with this choice. Your journey starts at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, here you can pay respect and learn about Vietnam's revered leader. Continue to Temple of Literature where Vietnamese people honor education. In the evening, explore Hoan Kiem Walking Street or Ta Hien Street to indulge in the dynamic atmosphere of a sleepless city.
If you want to escape the city's dust and noise, you don't have to go far. Just head to Hanoi's outskirts to enjoy the fresh air. Next to Red River, Bat Trang Pottery Village lets you try your hand at making handicrafts. Duong Lam Ancient Village in Son Tay District with the village gate, old banyan tree, and laterite houses of old Vietnamese countryside. The most ideal is camping in the forest of Ba Vi National Park.
Ba Vi is a great relaxing spot right in the capital
The next destination is UNESCO World Heritage Ha Long Bay. Board a cruise ship and start a full-day exploration across the bay. Ha Long Bay conquers visitors with the natural beauty of thousands of islands with special shapes, lush plants, and crystal-clear water. Besides seeing the bay, visitors can also challenge themselves with exciting sports activities. The most outstanding ones are kayaking or mountain climbing on jagged cliffs.
Ninh Binh has both stunning natural landscapes and relic sites for you to explore. Your first stop will be Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. It was once the capital of the feudal Vietnamese state before moving to Thang Long (Hanoi). Next, climb up Mua Cave for a breathtaking panoramic view of Tam Coc region. And try spending most of your time in Trang An Landscape Complex.
Suggested for you: North Vietnam Tours
This itinerary will take you to experience the extraordinary nature and people in Northwest region. Take a train from Hanoi to the dreamy town Sapa, Lao Cai Province. From here looking out at four surroundings, there are overlapping mountains flirting with clouds. Old pine trees stand firm through the flow of time. Further away are golden terraced rice fields signaling a bountiful harvest.
Western architectural works in Sapa
Sapa was once considered a potential tourist center by the French since the 1940s. Nowadays it still retains traces of French architecture from the past. For example, the city hall, the governor's palace, the hydroelectric system, and more than 200 classic villas. Every corner of this mountain town makes you mistakenly think you are lost in Europe.
Your must-visit destination in Sapa is Cat Cat Village, home to Black Hmong people. Although it's just a small village, the place is covered by the green of forests, the yellow of terraced fields, mixed with the simplicity of small wooden houses. Another place not to be missed is Fansipan Mountain. Fansipan is the highest mountain peak in Vietnam, a favorite destination for those who love adventure and wish to conquer the towering "roof".
A corner of Cat Cat Village
The path from Sapa to Dien Bien Phu takes approximately 6-7 hours yet has spectacular views of the rugged mountain terrain. Dien Bien Phu is associated with the glorious victory of Vietnam against France in 1954. The A1 Hill relic site and Historical Victory Museum will recount the arduous but resilient fighting process of Vietnamese army. In addition, you can visit Thai villages nearby to experience their traditions.
This is the green vacation for you. Begin your first day in Hanoi by renting a bike then cycle along Phan Dinh Phung Street. It is the most beautiful street in the capital with long rows of ancient trees. Finally, stop by Hanoi Botanical Garden. Resembles "green lung of the city", the park brings a sense of relaxation against the hurried pace of urban life. In the afternoon, walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and cross The Huc Bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple.
Phan Dinh Phung Street is a photography spot with romantic beauty. Source: TTStudio
Depart from Hanoi for Mai Chau on the next day. Although located in a mountainous area, Mai Chau is a valley surrounded by massive rocky mountains. Mai Chau bears the peaceful natural beauty of green forests, rice fields full of grains, with many small streams flowing quietly. Standing at the Mai Chau flagpole, you can witness the entire valley from above. There is nothing better than enjoying the fresh air and boundless natural scenery in your sight.
It would be a mistake to mention Mai Chau without remembering Ban Lac. The 700-year-old village is currently home to Thai ethnic people. Despite the development of the surrounding world, Ban Lac still retains a primitive appearance from the past. Furthermore, you can also explore the farming and brocade-weaving life of local people.
Thai ladies at Ban Lac. Source: Hoa Binh Department of Culture, Sports & Tourism
Bid farewell to Mai Chau and take a short drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Nature has blessed a dense seasonal tropical and diverse wild ecosystem for Pu Luong. Pu Luong is perfect for adventure tourism, community tourism, and ecotourism to return to nature. The beauty of the natural scenery and life here leaves many impressions and a feeling of peace, urging everyone to return.
Each Vietnam trip 5 days itinerary presented above brings a specific travel experience, tailored to suit individual preferences and needs. Choose your perfect plan and contact Asia King Travel to explore one beautiful side of Northern Vietnam.
Suggested for you: North Vietnam Cycling Tour 4 days: Red River Delta & Mai Chau
