Where Goes Rose: Northern Vietnam Itinerary – Explore Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa & Ninh Binh in 2 Weeks
- Anthony Guide
- Oct 26
- 3 min read
Northern Vietnam is a land of contrasts: chaotic city streets, tranquil rivers, misty mountains, and untouched landscapes. With two weeks to explore, you can experience it all—Hanoi’s vibrant energy, Ha Long Bay’s surreal waters, Sapa’s terraced fields, and Ha Giang’s winding mountain roads. Here’s a day-by-day visual guide to planning your ultimate Northern Vietnam Itinerary.
Week 1: Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay - Northern Vietnam Itinerary
Days 1-3: Hanoi – The Heartbeat of Northern Vietnam
Must-see:
Old Quarter: Wander narrow alleys filled with street food vendors and artisan shops.
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: Perfect for sunrise photography.
French Quarter: Admire colonial architecture and stop by the Hanoi Opera House.
Temple of Literature: Capture reflections in the lotus-filled pond.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Iconic, historically significant, and awe-inspiring.
Top Food Spots: Bun cha, pho cuon, banh mi from street vendors; egg coffee at local cafés.
Photo Tips: Sunrise by Hoan Kiem Lake, drone-like angles from Hanoi rooftops, and colorful street food stalls.
Insider Tip: Explore quieter neighborhoods like Ngoc Ha and Truc Bach to see local life away from tourists.
Day 4-5: Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay on Land
Highlights:
Tam Coc Boat Ride: Glide past limestone cliffs and rice paddies.
Trang An: Quieter waterways with stunning reflections for photography.
Bai Dinh Pagoda: Vietnam’s largest pagoda, perfect for architectural shots.
Mua Cave Viewpoint: A panoramic view of the countryside, especially magical at sunrise.
Photo Tips: Capture the golden hour over terraced fields and limestone karsts. Bring a drone if you have one!
Insider Tip: Stay overnight in the countryside to enjoy sunrise before the day-trippers arrive.
Days 6-8: Ha Long Bay & Cat Ba Island – Floating Magic
Highlights:
Overnight cruise around Ha Long Bay, kayaking, and cave exploring.
Sunrise from your cabin deck—priceless!
Cat Ba Island: optional hiking, cycling, and hidden beaches.
Photo Tips: Misty mornings over limestone islands; reflections in the bay; kayaking shots from low angles.
Insider Tip: Skip day trips if possible—overnight cruises are more serene and allow you to see the bay at its most peaceful.
Week 2: Sapa & Ha Giang – Mountains and Minority Cultures
Days 9-11: Sapa – Terraced Dreams
Highlights:
Trekking between hill tribe villages.
Staying in a homestay to experience local culture firsthand.
Visit Cat Cat Village, Ta Phin Village, and Muong Hoa Valley.
Photo Tips: Early morning mist over rice terraces, colorful traditional clothing of local tribes, sunsets from hilltops.
Insider Tip: Mix homestay and hotel stays for comfort and cultural immersion.
Days 12-13: Ha Giang – Untouched Mountain Beauty
Highlights:
Ha Giang Loop: motorbike or guided tour.
Heaven’s Gate: a cliff road opening to epic mountain views.
Explore remote villages and meet ethnic minority groups.
Photo Tips: Endless winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and locals tending fields. Sunrise and sunset shots are essential here.
Insider Tip: Renting a motorbike gives freedom, but guided tours reduce stress and increase safety on narrow roads.
Day 14: Return to Hanoi – Reflection & Relaxation
Revisit favorite cafés for one last Vietnamese coffee.
Shop for souvenirs in the Old Quarter.
Enjoy a quiet evening stroll along Hoan Kiem Lake, reflecting on your journey.
Photo Tips: Capture the city lights reflecting in the lake and vibrant street food scenes.
Northern Vietnam Essentials
Packing: Layered clothing for varied climates—cool mountains, hot cities.
Travel Insurance: Covers activities, valuables, and unforeseen travel delays.
Cash & Cards: Street food and small vendors prefer cash; hotels and tours often accept cards.
Etiquette: Respect temples, take off shoes when required, and ask before photographing locals.
Top Photography Spots
Hanoi Old Quarter rooftops at sunrise
Tam Coc boat reflections
Ha Long Bay misty mornings
Sapa rice terraces at golden hour
Ha Giang winding mountain roads
Why Northern Vietnam Should Be on Your Bucket List
Northern Vietnam is a region of contrasts and wonders. It’s bustling yet peaceful, modern yet timeless. The region combines culture, cuisine, and nature in a way that feels endless. Whether sipping coffee in Hanoi, cruising through Ha Long Bay, hiking in Sapa, or exploring Ha Giang, Northern Vietnam offers moments of awe at every turn.
Every corner of this region invites curiosity. Every meal is a story. Every sunrise is a painting. And every journey becomes a memory that lingers long after you return home.
Northern Vietnam isn’t just a destination—it’s a story, an adventure, and a deep connection to a land where every moment matters.
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A wonderful itinerary to explore the breathtaking nature of Northern Vietnam — one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Vietnam Northern Travel is proud to offer you this phenomenal and unforgettable journey.