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Halong Bay, in northeast Vietnam, is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. This is the most visited attraction throughout the country. Magnificent limestone towers rise above the waters of the bay like brooding primeval sentinels. Halong Bay stretches out along the Tonkin Gulf, just a three-and-a-half-hour drive north of Hanoi. Junk boat tours and sea kayak expeditions take visitors past islands named for their shapes, including Stone Dog and Teapot islets. The region is popular for scuba diving, rock climbing and hiking, particularly in mountainous Cát Bà National Park.
Bai Tu Long Bay is Halong Bay’s northern counterpart. According to the legend, if Halong Bay is the Mother Dragon then Bai Tu Long Bay is the Child Dragon. Compared to its mother, Bai Tu Long is much more primitive and pristine, it has fewer tourists cruising around. Since it lacks the UNESCO designation, it isn’t as crowded as Halong Bay. The hundreds of tiny, uninhabited islands and limestone towers are magical, and there are far fewer people and cruise ships to mar the scenery.
Sapa, located in northwest Vietnam, is such an amazing top tourist destination, famous for the imposing nature and the friendliness of the minority people living here. When we think of Sapa, the breathtaking view of the terraced fields, the high mountains, and the diverse culture of more than 30 local ethnic groups just come to our minds. Visiting Sapa is one of the best things to do in Hanoi. The beauty of Sapa differs in each season. One thing you cannot miss is to have a Sapa trekking tour which will give you a lot of chances to interact with locals, experience attractive activities.
The Dong Van Plateau is about a six-hour drive from Hanoi. It is a spectacular part of the remote and mountainous region of Vietnam’s far northeast. Spectacular terraced rice paddies climb to the summits of the surrounding mountains, extending beyond the horizon. Further exploration uncovers more gems: Southeast Asia’s deepest canyon, 22 ethnic minority tribes, pristine lakes, pine forests, stone forests, caves bristling with undisturbed formations, and incredible waterfalls are just a few of the many treats that await the intrepid explorer.
Several tranquil rivers meander near the city of Ninh Binh, just 58 miles south of Hanoi. Take a ride on an aluminum rowboat paddled by local village women and marvel at the rugged karst terrain, mountain goats, and lush foliage as you glide along peaceful river waterways through a series of dark grottoes.
You can easily visit Ninh Binh as a day trip from Hanoi, though if you want to stay longer, check out Cuc Phuong National Park and visit one of Southeast Asia’s largest virgin rainforests, complete with easily-accessed primitive caves, thousands of butterflies, and internationally respected primate and pangolin rescue centers.
Suggested for you: North Vietnam Tour 4 days: Ninh Binh & Sapa
Mai Chau is the first town along Vietnam’s gorgeous Northwest Loop. You can stay in an ethnic Thai stilt house and explore caves and waterfalls in the rich, hilly terrain where rice is cultivated by the minority people. Mai Chau can be visited as a day trip from Hanoi, or it can be combined into a longer journey with the more remote towns of Moc Chau, Son La, and Dien Bien Phu, returning through Sapa and back to Hanoi for a five- to seven-day adventure.
The Perfume Pagoda is a temple complex just a couple of hours from Hanoi. No roads lead to the complex; instead, small rowboats take visitors past several Buddhist temples—all active places of worship—until they arrive at the base of the main complex. Hundreds of steps lead up to the Perfume Pagoda, though it’s an arduous climb. Fortunately, a gondola is available to ferry passengers to the temple complex and back in just a few minutes. The cave housing the main temple is a large one, with high ceilings and huge formations. It’s a popular pilgrimage site for pregnant Vietnamese mothers, who come here to pray for a healthy baby and many local people here in the north try to visit it at least once a year to pray for health and good fortune.
Be sure to allow a minimum of two or three days to explore the city of Hanoi, as well. Beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake is the living cultural, historical, and spiritual heart of Hanoi and it’s a “must see” place to visit. The ancient Old Quarter is a wonderful place to wander, with its maze of small streets and jumble of shops. Historically, each block specialized in selling a certain item—tin, bamboo, herbs, cloth, pottery—the street names still reflect this heritage. Buy a $0.40 glass of freshly brewed beer at one of the many open-air bia hoi’s and listen to the rowdy toasts, conversations and laughter from the regulars who come here to discuss everything from sports to major business deals. Sip coffee at a streetside café and watch the endless procession of street vendors. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in Vietnamese daily life.
Northern Vietnam offers a diverse range of attractions that showcase the region's stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the mesmerizing beauty of Ha Long Bay and the rugged peaks of Sapa to the historical significance of Hanoi and the serenity of Ninh Binh, the area provides something for every type of traveler. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, trekking through terraced rice fields, or cruising on tranquil lakes, Northern Vietnam promises unforgettable experiences that highlight the best of this fascinating country.
Suggested for you: Northern Vietnam Tour 10 days: In-Depth Discovery
