3 Days Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay Highlights Tour

Three Days in Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long Bay Highlights Tour

Planning a trip to Vietnam and want to see the country’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail? This 3-day tour from Crossing Vietnam Tour promises a balanced mix of cultural insights, scenic beauty, and authentic local experiences. From Hanoi’s bustling streets to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, this journey covers some of the most beloved destinations in northern Vietnam.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a comprehensive look into Hanoi’s historic and culinary scene. Second, it takes you off the beaten path with a full-day trip to Ninh Binh—home to ancient temples, lush landscapes, and impressive caves. Lastly, the Ha Long Bay cruise is a highlight, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying mesmerizing bay views.

However, a key consideration is the packed schedule—some travelers might find the early mornings and long travel times a bit tiring. This tour is best suited for active travelers who love exploring multiple sites in a short period and are comfortable with a full itinerary. If you’re after a snapshot of northern Vietnam packed into three days, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines cultural, scenic, and culinary highlights over three days.
• Authentic Local Food: Includes street food walks and local dishes, giving a taste of Vietnamese cuisine.
• Active Explorations: Features boat rides, cycling, and a mountain climb—great for adventurous spirits.
• Value for Money: At $170, the tour includes transport, entrance fees, and most meals.
• Flexible Booking: Option to reserve now and pay later, with a 24-hour cancellation policy.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Perfect for those who enjoy walking, hiking, and outdoor activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: Hanoi City Tour & Street Food Walk

Your adventure begins early in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where a guide will pick you up and start unveiling the city’s vibrant character. The day kicks off with visits to key landmarks: the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the mausoleum (noting it’s closed on Mondays and Fridays), the historic One Pillar Pagoda, and Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake—an area loved for its peaceful surroundings and beautiful views.

Next, you’ll explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, which offers a glimpse into the country’s scholarly past. These sites provide a layered understanding of Hanoi’s history, culture, and spiritual life. Many reviewers appreciated how guides shared entertaining stories, making history come alive.

Afternoon and evening are dedicated to a street food walking tour starting at 38 Bat Su Street. You’ll sample Bun Cha, steamed rolls, and spring rolls—flavors that capture Hanoi’s culinary spirit. A highlight for many is tasting Banh Mi with pork or chicken, and trying dry mixed Pho and sticky rice ice cream (Kem Xoi) for dessert. The stop at the Train Street café is a fun photo opportunity; watching trains pass just inches from the café tables is both unique and slightly nerve-wracking but worth it for the experience.

A note from reviews: travelers found the guided tour informative but suggested bringing a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor walks. The flexible start times in the afternoon allow you to tailor your day based on your energy level.

Day 2: Ninh Binh – The Ancient Capital and Scenic Land

Day two takes you out of Hanoi into the picturesque landscape of Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land” because of its stunning limestone karsts. The journey begins early, with a pickup around 7:30 AM, and takes about 3.5 hours with a rest stop along the way.

The first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Here, you visit the Dinh and Le temples, dedicated to kings and historical figures. Many visitors enjoy the quiet, contemplative atmosphere and appreciate learning about Vietnam’s former rulers in such a preserved setting.

Next, a buffet lunch offers local specialties—some reviewers highlight the delicious goat and chicken dishes, with vegetarian options available, making this a flexible meal choice. After lunch, the adventure continues with a boat ride through Trang An, which lasts about 1.5 hours. The boat glides through caves and along scenic waterways, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a peaceful escape into nature.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll hop on a bicycle for about 45 minutes through local villages, giving you a taste of rural life and lush landscapes. The climb up to Mua Cave involves about 500 steps, but the panoramic view from Lying Dragon Mountain is well worth the effort, providing sweeping vistas of the surroundings.

By evening, you’ll head back to Hanoi, arriving around 7 PM. Reviewers appreciated the well-organized schedule, though some noted the climb at Mua Cave is physically demanding and best suited for those in good shape.

Day 3: Ha Long Bay – The Iconic Seascape

Your final day begins bright and early with an 8:15 AM pick-up for the Ha Long Bay cruise. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours, with a short break en route, giving you a chance to nap or enjoy the scenery. Arriving at Tuan Chau Harbour, the boat is ready to set sail around 12:15 PM.

The lunch onboard is included, offering local dishes and vegetarian options if needed. As you cruise, you’ll visit the Sung Sot Cave, known as the Surprise Grotto, where towering stalactites and stalagmites create an otherworldly atmosphere—an experience many reviewers find awe-inspiring.

Titop Island offers options for swimming or hiking to panoramic views of the bay. Many travelers love this pause, especially for the chance to cool off and enjoy the sweeping seascape. Later, kayaking or bamboo boat rides at Luon Cave lagoon provide more intimate ways to explore the bay’s hidden corners.

The cruise concludes around 5:30 PM with a sunset tea party on deck, a relaxing way to end the day. You’ll return to Hanoi by about 9 PM, tired but full of incredible images of some of Vietnam’s most famous scenery. Reviewers appreciated the smooth navigation and the chance to relax after a busy day.

What’s Included & What to Consider

This tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, all specified entrance fees, meals, and activities like boat rides, biking, and kayaking. The meals are generally well-received, with vegetarian options ensuring dietary flexibility.

A big advantage is the flexible booking policy, allowing you to reserve your spot now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The group size is kept manageable, making for more personalized experiences, but the itinerary is still quite packed, so expect some early mornings and long travel periods.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes—especially for the Mua Cave climb—and pack sun protection and water. The tour is physically demanding at times, particularly for those who dislike walking or climbing.

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Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re an active traveler eager to see diverse sights in a short span, this tour is ideal. It suits those who appreciate cultural sites, scenic landscapes, and engaging outdoor activities. It might not be the best fit if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility issues, given the walking and climbing involved.

Overall, for the price of $170, you get a thoughtfully curated experience that balances sightseeing, authentic food, and outdoor adventure, making it a smart choice for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to northern Vietnam.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, plus transportation between sites and the cruise.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for lunch on Days 2 and 3, and the tour guide can accommodate dietary preferences.

What should I wear for the activities?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the Mua Cave climb. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay protected from the sun.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves walking, cycling, and climbing, particularly at Mua Cave. It’s suited for travelers in good physical condition.

What’s the best time to join this tour?
The tour runs year-round, but weather conditions vary. Confirm the schedule if you prefer cooler months or avoid rainy seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility for your schedule.

In summary, this 3-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of northern Vietnam’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who want an active, immersive snapshot of Hanoi’s culture, Ninh Binh’s landscapes, and Ha Long Bay’s stunning waters—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to maximize a short trip, this itinerary strikes a good balance between sightseeing, outdoor fun, and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here: