5 Days Itinerary: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Sapa (for the first timers)
If you’ve got 5 days to explore Northern Vietnam and you’re not quite sure what to do, we’ve got your back. This itinerary will take you from the ancient streets of Hanoi to the towering mountains of Halong Bay to come to an end in the hills and mountains of Sapa.
- Spend the first day exploring Hanoi’s highlights.
- On day two, head towards Sapa where you will explore Ham Rong mountain.
- Day three takes you to Cat Cat village, where you will learn about H’mong culture.
- The final destination is a 2-day/1-night cruise to Halong Bay.
Day 1: Hanoi
- 8:00: Depart your hotel and head to Tran Quoc Pagoda, an historic Buddhist temple in Hanoi, situated near the scenic West Lake.
- 9:45: Take a leisurely walk to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum in Ba Dinh, stopping for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at a local café.
- 11:15: Continue to the One Pillar Pagoda, a distinctively designed temple recognized as one of Vietnam’s cultural symbols.
- 12:00: Enjoy lunch at a nearby local restaurant featuring Vietnamese cuisine.
- 13:30: Step back in time at the Temple of Literature, founded in 1070 AD, which is also recognized as Vietnam’s first university.
- 15:00: Make your way to Hoan Kiem Lake. Embrace local customs by strolling around the lake, relaxing, visiting Ngoc Son Temple, and treating yourself to some delicious ice cream from one of the nearby gelato shops.
- 17:00: Return to your hotel to refresh and prepare for dinner.
- 18:30: Explore the charming Old Quarter to find a dining spot—consider trying Bun Cha or Bun Bo Nam Bo.
- 20:00: Head back to your hotel to rest and recharge for the exciting activities planned for day two!
Summary: Visit six attractions including Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple, and Hoan Kiem Lake.
Day 2: Hanoi to Sapa
- 8:00: Board the shuttle bus to Sapa. Enjoy the stunning landscapes throughout the journey.
- 13:00: Arrive in Sapa and savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
- 14:00: Visit Ham Rong Mountain. The climb to the summit takes approximately 20 minutes, where you can explore the beautiful Indochina Orchid Garden.
- 17:00: Return to your hotel to freshen up before the evening activities.
- 18:00: Choose a local eatery for a delightful dinner experience!
- 19:30: Discover the charm of Sapa town at night, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Tip: An overnight train from Hanoi to Sapa is also an option. Trains depart Hanoi at 22:00 and arrive in Lao Cai (for Sapa) at 06:10 the next morning. The cost is around 1,200,000 VND per person for a one-way ticket as of 2025.
Day 3: Sapa to Cat Cat Village to Hanoi
- 08:30: Wake up and enjoy breakfast at a local café in Sapa Town.
- 09:30: Visit Cat Cat Village, located just a short distance from Sapa Town. Engage with the Hmong ethnic community and discover their unique customs and traditions.
- 12:00: Return to Sapa Town for lunch at one of the many local restaurants.
- 13:30: Explore the vibrant Sapa market and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
- 14:30: Depart for Hanoi via a shuttle bus.
- 19:30: Arrive back at your Hanoi hotel to unwind for the evening, or enjoy dinner in the lively Old Quarter.
For train enthusiasts: An overnight train from Sapa departs Lao Cai Station at 21:40 and arrives in Hanoi at 05:30 the following day. You can book tickets through the official Vietnam Railways website or through local travel agencies.
Day 4: Hanoi to Halong Bay
- 8:00 - 8:30: Grab a Banh Mi on-the-go for breakfast, then board the shuttle bus to Halong Bay.
- 12:15 - 13:00: Aim to arrive at Halong Bay ferry port by noon. Check-in and board your cruise.
- 13:00: Relish a set-menu lunch onboard the cruise vessel.
- 14:00: First stop, visit Titop Island. Spend some time swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the island.
- 15:30: Proceed to Sung Sot Cave, regarded as one of the most stunning caves in Halong Bay.
- 16:30: Return to the boat to freshen up in preparation for dinner. Take a shower and unwind on the deck while you wait.
- 17:30: Savor the set-menu dinner.
- 19:00: After sunset, engage in squid fishing, karaoke, and games.
Important Note: Passports are mandatory for your stay onboard; be sure to bring your passport with you.
Day 5: Halong Bay to Hanoi
- 07:00: Wake up early to enjoy breakfast on board the ship.
- 07:40: Visit the pearl farm and discover the intricacies of pearl cultivation in Halong Bay.
- 08:30: Experience kayaking and explore the stunning scenery surrounding your cruise boat at your leisure.
- 10:30: Relish a delicious brunch on the boat while taking in the breathtaking sights of Halong Bay as you journey back to Tuan Chau Harbor.
- 12:00: Board the shuttle bus for your return to Hanoi’s Old Quarter. 16:30: Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi.
Recommended hotels in Hanoi: The Oriental Jade Hotel & Spa and Apricot Hotel, both located just a 2-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.
