Northern & Central Vietnam Tour ( By Private Car)

Detailed Travel Itinerary: Northern and Central Vietnam Exploration Tour ( By Private Car)

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi and city tour. Overnight in Misasi Premium Hotel Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi: Vietnam’s bustling colonial capital.
Our representative will meet you at the arrival terminal of Noi Bai Airport with your signed name :………………., following your flight number …………. landing at ………….. He picks your group up & transfers to Minasi Premium Hotel

Gate to enter Thang Long Royal Citadel

Check-in ( after 14h00) & be free at your leisure to explore Hanoi on your own. Overnight in Minasi Premium Hotel

Inclusions : Private car airport pick-up, deluxe double/twin room with window in Minasi Premium Hotel

Day 2. Hanoi city tour. Overnight in Minasi Premium Hotel Hanoi ( B,L)

After your own breakfast, our guide & driver will pick you up for a sightseeing day tour to explore Hanoi’s top attractions :

• Ho Chi Minh Complex. You will visit the Presidential Palace – a nice French architecture in the garden and Ho Chi Minh House on stilt. Visiting the house you will see the simple life of Ho Chi Minh – the president in Vietnamese’s spirit forever. We will finish this area with One Pillar Pagoda – one of the most attractions in Hanoi you cannot miss with the special in architecture.
• Tran Quoc pagoda – the oldest one & the center of Buddhism in Hanoi capital.
• Temple of Literature & The first Univeristy of Vietnam – great for your understanding of our feudal education & our Confucian culture.
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology : the place to display and preserve the cultural values of 54 ethnic groups across the country
• Hanoi old quarter – the busy center of Hanoi famous for its narrow ancient streets specialized in typical produces
• Hanoi’s Train Street, offering a unique experience found only in this city
• Hoan Kiem lake – for a nice walk around for photos & talking with local students.

Back to your hotel & be free at leisure. Overnight in Hanoi.

Inclusions : Private car with driver, tourguide of English speaking, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, deluxe double/twin rooms at the hotel

Day 3: Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay, kayak to Luon Cave, and hike to Ti Top Island. Overnight on 5* Victorty Star Cruise (B, L, D).

Today’s journey is to Halong bay – the must-see place in Vietnam for any travellers doing trip to Vietnam

• 08:20 – 08:30 Begin your journey with a pick-up from your hotel in the Old Quarter. Take a short break for refreshments during the 20-minute drive.
• 11:30 – 11:45 Arrive at Halong International Harbor.
• 12:15 Board the cruise via tender. Check-in, savor welcome drinks, and receive a cruise briefing.
• 13:00 Enjoy a delightful lunch while cruising through the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay, marveling at the captivating formations along the way.
• 14:45 Discover Luon Cave through kayaking or a bamboo boat ride. Engage in this must-do activity with a local bamboo rowing boat or opt for kayaking.
• 16:00 Visit Titop Island for climbing, beach time, and swimming. Appreciate the crescent moon-shaped beach and panoramic views of Halong Bay from the island’s peak.
• 17:00 – 18:30 Relax on the sundeck, capturing the best moments of the day as the sun sets between limestone peaks and emerald-green coves. Enjoy drinks and a cooking demonstration.
• 19:15 Indulge in a delicious dinner.
• 21:00 Try your hand at night-time squid fishing.
• 22:30 Drift into sweet dreams while on board the Victory Star Cruise.

Inclusions : Private car with driver Hanoi – Halong bay, English speaking tourguide on the cruise, sight-seeing entrance fees, kayaking or rowing boat fees, meals (B- Breakfast, L-Lunch, D- Dinner), double/twin cabin on the cruise

Day 4: Visit Sung Sot Cave in Halong Bay, then travel to Ninh Binh. Overnight in Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Resort (B, L).

Today, we will have a moring explore Sung Sot cave – the biggest grotto in Halong bay, then drive to Ninh Binh, largely known as Halong bay on land

• 06:15 Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Bay. Engage in a morning Tai Chi session on the sundeck.
• 06:30 Delight in a light breakfast with coffee, tea, and pastries served in the restaurant.
• 07:20 Embark on an exploration of Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most stunning cave in Halong Bay.
• 09:15 Check-out of cabins and settle bills. Begin the cruise back to the port.
• 09:30 Relish a buffet brunch served at the restaurant.
• 10:45 – 11:00 Return to the port. Bid farewell and disembark.
• 11:15 – 11:30 Board our private car for a journey to Ninh Binh
• 15:00 -15:30 Arrive in Ninh Binh, check-in the hotel & be free at your relaxation.

Inclusions : Private car with driver Halong bay – Hanoi, tour guide of English speaking on cruise, entrance sightseeing fees, meals (B- breakfast, L-Lunch), double/twin room with windows in Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Resort

Day 5: Day trip in Ninh Binh to visit Hoa Lu ancient capital, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave. Overnight in Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Resort (B, L)

After having a breakfast at the hotel, our driver will pick you up for an exciting day with boat ride, hiking & biking activities to explore top attractions in Ninh Binh:

• 8:00 A.M. Leave the hotel to Mua Cave, where a challenging yet rewarding hiking adventure awaits. Climb the stone steps to the peak of the mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the Tam Coc and Trang An landscapes. Don’t forget your camera for those picturesque photo opportunities.
• 10:00 A.M. Proceed to Hoa Lu ancient capital, pay a visit to two remain temples : Dinh temple worshipping the king Dinh Tien Hoang & his family and Le temple dedicated to the king Le Dai Hanh & his family.You will learn a lot about Vietnamese history during 10th, 11th century in Dinh, Le & Ly dynasties and the strategic decision to remove the capital from Hoa Lu to Hanoi in 1010.
• 12:00 . Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes at a nearby restaurant.
• 13:00 P.M. After lunch, continue our journey to Tam Coc for a scenic rowing boat ride along Ngo Dong river to admire Tam Coc’s beautiful landscapes : majestic limestone mountain settings along waterways, three naturally hidden caves & pristine or stunning rice fields on both sides of the rivers.
• 15:00 PM.After Tam Coc boat ride, hop on a bike for a short ride around the majestic mountains and charming local villages in Bich Dong area. Immerse yourself in the beautiful views and gain insights into the daily life of the locals.
• 16:00 P.M. Back to the hotel & be relaxed at your leisure

Inclusions : Private car with driver, local guide of English speaking, meals ( B- Breakfast, L-Lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, boat ride fee in Tam Coc, bike rental fees, twin/double rooms at Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Resort

Day 6: Travel from Ninh Binh to Vinh, visit Uncle Ho’s native village, Dong Loc Junction, Ngang Pass, and General Giap’s tomb. Overnight in Muong Thanh Luxury Dong Hoi (B, L).

Breakfast at the hotel & be ready for a journey to explore the Central Vietnam for beautiful landscapes & valueable lessions about Vietnam’s history

• 7:30 AM. Begin your journey to Vinh, a city in the north-central coast of Vietnam. The drive will take approximately 3 hours, covering a distance of around 200 km.
• 10:30 AM. Arrive in Kim Lien Village, the birthplace of Ho Chi Minh, located in Nam Dan District, Nghe An Province. Explore the simple houses where President Ho Chi Minh was born and learn about his early life and family.
• 12:00 PM. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant
• 14:00 PM. Drive to Dong Loc Junction, located in Can Loc District, Ha Tinh Province. This historical site commemorates the bravery of ten young female volunteers who sacrificed their lives during the American War to ensure the safe passage of supplies along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
• 15:30 PM . Proceed to Ngang Pass, which marks the natural boundary between Ha Tinh and Quang Binh provinces. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
• 16:30 PM . Head towards Vung Chua – Dao Yen in Quang Binh Province, where General Vo Nguyen Giap, the famous military leader, is laid to rest. Pay respects at his tomb, located in a serene coastal area.
• 17:30 PM . Arrive in Dong Hoi city, the capital of Quang Binh Province.Check-in at Muong Thanh Luxury Dong Hoi & unwind in your comfortable room or Nhat Le beach

Sen village – Ho Chi Minh’s birthplace

Inclusions : Private car with driver, local guide of English speaking, meals ( B- Breakfast, L-Lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, twin/double rooms at Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel 

Day 7: Explore Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Grotto. Overnight in Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel Dong Hoi (B, L).

Today, we are heading to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning caves. We’ll spend an awesome day exploring Phong Nha water cave and the magnificent Paradise Grotto (Thien Duong Grotto).

• 7:00 AM. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the adventure ahead.
• 8:00 AM . Depart from your hotel in Dong Hoi and head towards Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, offering scenic views of the countryside.
• 9:00 AM – Arrive at Phong Nha Cave: Upon arrival, you’ll take a short boat ride along the Son River to reach the entrance of Phong Nha Cave, known for its stunning karst landscapes and impressive underground river.
• 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM – Phong Nha Cave Tour: Spend around 2 hours exploring the cave. Marvel at the unique rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites as your guide shares fascinating insights about the cave’s geology and history. The boat ride inside the cave is serene and allows for a close-up view of the natural wonders.
• 12:00 Noon . Head to a local restaurant nearby for a Vietnamese lunch. Enjoy dishes such as grilled pork, spring rolls, fresh vegetables, and rice, accompanied by refreshing local drinks.
• 13:30 PM . After lunch, continue your journey to Paradise Grotto, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from Phong Nha Cave. The grotto, also known as Thien Duong Cave, is one of the most beautiful and longest dry caves in Asia.
• 14:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Paradise Grotto Tour: Upon arrival, take a short electric cart ride to the entrance, followed by a brief hike. Spend about 1 hours exploring the cave. Admire the stunning formations, illuminated by strategic lighting that enhances the cave’s natural beauty. The boardwalks and stairways make it accessible and safe to explore the various chambers.
• 4:30 PM . Begin your drive back to Dong Hoi, reflecting on the day’s adventures as you pass through the scenic landscapes of Quang Binh province.
• 5:30 PM – Arrive at Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel & be free at leisure for your own exploration at Nhat Le beach

The beauty of Paradise Grotto in Quang Binh

Inclusions : Private car with driver, local guide of English speaking, meals ( B- Breakfast, L-Lunch), boat ride in Phong Nha, returned electric car to enter Paradise grotto, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, twin/double rooms at Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel 

Day 8: Travel from Dong Hoi to the DMZ in Quang Tri, visit Vinh Moc Tunnels, Hien Luong Bridge, Ben Hai River, and Quang Tri Old Citadel, then continue to Hue. Overnight in Cherish Hotel Hue (B, L).

Today’s journey is a deep dive into Vietnam’s historical and wartime past in DMZ Quang Tri with a visit to Vinh Moc tunnels, Hien Luong Bridge, Ben Hai River & Quang Tri Old Citadel. This visit is a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength that shaped Vietnam’s history

• 7:00 AM. Breakfast at your hotel & ready with your baggage.
• 8:00 AM. Depart from Dong Hoi and head towards the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) in Quang Tri province
• 10:00 AM. Arrive at Vinh Moc Tunnels : Explore this complex tunnel system used by North Vietnamese soldiers and local villagers during the Vietnam War. These tunnels were ingeniously constructed to evade bombings and served as living quarters, hospitals, and supply routes.We have around 1 hour here, walking through the tunnels and learning about their historical significance from informative displays and guides.
• 11:15 AM. Depart from Vinh Moc Tunnels and head towards Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River: Visit this iconic bridge that once marked the boundary between North and South Vietnam. The bridge and the Ben Hai River were symbolic of the division of Vietnam during the war.Spend about 45 minutes here, exploring the site and the adjacent museum which provides insights into the historical context of the DMZ.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant in Quang Tri. Enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes and refresh yourself for the afternoon’s activities.
• 13:30 PM. Visit Quang Tri Old Citadel: This site was the location of a fierce battle during the Vietnam War in 1972. Today, it serves as a memorial to those who fought and died here, with many monuments and exhibits detailing the history of the conflict.Here we can spend around 1 hour exploring the citadel, its grounds, and the memorials.
• 14:30 PM. Depart Quang Tri and head towards Hue.
• 16:30 PM: Arrive in Hue and check into Cherish Hotel Hue.Settle into your comfortable room at this centrally located hotel, offering modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Dinner on your own & be free to explore Hue city at night

Symbolic Hien Luonh Bridge & Ben Hai river

Inclusions : Private car with driver, local guide of English speaking, meals ( B- Breakfast, L-Lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, twin/double rooms at Cherish Hotel Hue 

Day 9: Explore Hue city, including its royal citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Overnight in Cherish Hotel Hue (B, L).

Today’s exploration to Hue’s top landmarks offers you a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Vietnam’s former imperial capital

• 7:30 AM: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
• 8:30 AM: Start your day with a visit to the Hue Imperial City (The Citadel). This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the former imperial capital of Vietnam and is rich in history and architecture. Spend time exploring the Noon Gate (Ngo Mon Gate), Thai Hoa Palace, the Forbidden Purple City, and various other palaces and temples within the complex.
• 10:30 AM: Head to the Thien Mu Pagoda. Situated on the banks of the Perfume River, this iconic pagoda offers stunning views and serene surroundings. Learn about its historical significance and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
• 11:30 AM: Take a leisurely stroll around the pagoda’s garden and enjoy the beautiful views of the river.
• 12:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant to savor Hue’s traditional cuisine.
• 13:30 PM: Visit the Tomb of Tu Duc. This is one of the most beautiful royal tombs in Hue, featuring traditional Vietnamese architecture, serene lakes, and lush gardens. Learn about the life of Emperor Tu Duc and the significance of the tomb’s design.
• 15:00 PM: Continue to the Tomb of Khai Dinh. This tomb is a blend of traditional Vietnamese and European architectural styles, making it unique among the royal tombs. The elaborate interior decoration and the emperor’s statue are highlights of this site.
• 15:30 PM: Return to the city center and take a relaxing walk along the Perfume River. If time allows, you can also visit the Dong Ba Market for some shopping and to experience the local hustle and bustle.

The view at Tu Duc tomb

Inclusions : Private car with driver, local guide of English speaking, meals ( B- Breakfast, L-Lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, twin/double rooms at Cherish Hotel Hue

Day 10: Travel from Hue to Lang Co, visit Lap An fishing village, Hai Van Pass, Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge. Overnight in Alani Hotel Da Nang (B, L).

Today’s journey promises breathtaking landscapes as we travel from Hue to Da Nang city & explore beautiful spots along the way such as Hai Van Pass, Lap An fishing village & iconic Golden Bridge – Ba Na hills

• 7:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel
• 8:00 AM: Depart from Hue and drive to Lang Co, a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beach and tranquil lagoon (approximately 1.5 hours).
• 9:30 AM: Arrive at Lap An Fishing Village. Spend time exploring the village, taking in the serene views of the lagoon surrounded by mountains, and observing the local fishing activities.
• 10:30 AM: Continue your journey to Hai Van Pass, one of the most scenic hillside roads in Vietnam, offering panoramic views of the coastline and mountains (approximately 30 minutes).
• 11:00 AM: Arrive at the top of Hai Van Pass. Spend some time enjoying the breathtaking views and taking photos.
• 12:00 PM: Depart from Hai Van Pass and drive to Ba Na Hills, a popular mountain resort complex with various attractions (approximately 1 hour).
• 13:00 PM: Arrive at Ba Na Hills.Have lunch at the restaurants in the Ba Na Hills complex
• 14:00 P.M : Take the cable car to the top, enjoying spectacular views along the way.
• 14:30 PM: Explore Ba Na Hills, including: Golden Bridge, a stunning pedestrian bridge held up by giant stone hands, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.French Village, a charming area designed to resemble a French medieval village, complete with cobblestone streets and European architecture.Le Jardin d’Amour, a beautiful garden with various themed sections and vibrant flower displays.Fantasy Park, an indoor amusement park with rides, games, and attractions suitable for all ages.
• 17:30 PM: Depart from Ba Na Hills and drive to Da Nang (approximately 45 minutes).
• 18:10 PM: Arrive at Alani Hotel Da Nang for check-in.Free time to relax at the hotel or explore nearby areas in Da Nang.

Golden Bridge – Ba Na Hills

Inclusions : Private car with driver, local guide of English speaking, meals ( B- Breakfast, L-Lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, returned cable car to visit Ba Na Hills, twin/double rooms at Alani Hotel Da Nang

Day 11: Day trip from Da Nang to visit Marble Mountain, Cam Thanh coconut village, and the ancient town of Hoi An. Overnight in Alani Hotel Da Nang (B, L).

After your breakfast at the hotel, our driver & guide will be ready to pick your group up for a day of wonderful exploration of Hoi An & Da Nang’s highlights :

• 9:00 AM: Depart from Da Nang for Marble Mountain. It’s a short drive, about 20 minutes.
• 9:20 AM: Arrive at Marble Mountain. Explore the stunning natural landscapes, including the five limestone hills representing the five elements. Visit the caves, pagodas, and take in panoramic views from the top. Don’t miss the Linh Ung Pagoda and the Huyen Khong Cave. Spend approximately 1.5 hours here.
• 11:30 AM: Leave Marble Mountain and head to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, located around 30 minutes away by car.
• 12:00 PM: Arrive at Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant or with a family in the village. Experience a local specialty meal, often featuring fresh seafood or local vegetables.
• 1:00 PM: After lunch, embark on a boat ride through the mangrove forest in a traditional bamboo basket boat. Learn about the village’s history and traditional fishing techniques. Participate in hands-on activities like weaving palm leaves or fishing.
• 2:30 PM: Depart from Cam Thanh Coconut Village and head towards Hoi An Ancient Town. The drive takes about 30 minutes.
• 3:00 PM: Arrive in Hoi An Ancient Town. Begin your exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved architecture, including historic merchant houses, Japanese bridges, and vibrant markets.
• 5:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at one of Hoi An’s many charming restaurants
• 7:00 PM: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. Visit the riverside area where you can see colorful lanterns floating on the water.
• 8:30 PM: Head back to Da Nang, which takes about 30 minutes by car.

Overnight in Alani Hotel Da Nang

Day 12: Departure from Da Nang (B).

After the breakfast at the hotel, you will have your own time at leisure for swimming or shopping. And about bout 3.5 hours before your flight, the driver will pick your family up from the hotel and drive to Da Nang international airport for your flight onwards. See you in another trip with Golden Holiday Travel to explore other destinations in Vietnam

Inclusions : Private car with driver, meals ( B- breakfast)