5 day itinerary for Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long, Sapa

Itinerary

It sounds like you’re in for an amazing adventure in Vietnam! Let’s create a relaxed and enjoyable itinerary for your family that balances sightseeing with some downtime. Here’s a 5-day plan that covers Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long, and Sapa:

## Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Morning:

• Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Afternoon:

• Head out to explore the Old Quarter. Stroll through the bustling streets, and don’t forget to stop by a local café for some Vietnamese coffee or egg coffee (a must-try!).
• Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. It’s a lovely spot to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Evening:

• Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional dishes like Pho or Bun Cha.
• If you’re up for it, catch a traditional Water Puppet Show for a unique cultural experience.

## Day 2: Ninh Binh Day Trip

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Ninh Binh (about 2 hours).
• Start your day with a visit to Tam Coc. You can take a relaxing boat ride through the stunning limestone karsts and rice paddies. It’s often referred to as “Halong Bay on land.”

Afternoon:

• After the boat ride, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. Try some goat meat, a specialty of the region!
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a beautiful series of temples set against a backdrop of lush greenery. It’s a peaceful place to explore.

Evening:

• Check into your hotel in Ninh Binh and relax. Enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.
• Spend the evening unwinding and enjoying the serene surroundings.

## Day 3: Ninh Binh to Ha Long

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the countryside to soak in the beautiful landscapes.
• Depart for Ha Long Bay (approximately 3-4 hours drive).

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Ha Long and check into your cruise or hotel.
• Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board (if you’re on a cruise) or at a local restaurant.

Evening:

• Spend the evening cruising around Ha Long Bay, marveling at the stunning limestone islands. Some cruises offer activities like kayaking or swimming.
• Enjoy dinner on board or at your hotel, and relax while taking in the breathtaking views.

## Day 4: Ha Long to Sapa

Morning:

• After breakfast, continue your cruise in Ha Long Bay. Visit some caves or islands, and take plenty of photos!
• Return to the harbor and have lunch before heading to Sapa (approximately 5-6 hours drive).

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Sapa and check into your hotel. Take some time to relax and enjoy the mountain views.
• If you have time, take a short walk around Sapa town and visit the local market.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some delicious mountain cuisine.
• Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or exploring the town.

## Day 5: Sapa Exploration and Return to Hanoi

Morning:

• After breakfast, embark on a guided trek to nearby villages like Cat Cat or Ta Van. Enjoy the stunning terraced rice fields and learn about the local culture.
• Take your time to soak in the beauty of the landscape and interact with the friendly locals.

Afternoon:

• Return to Sapa for lunch and some relaxation time. You might want to visit the Sapa Stone Church or just enjoy the views from a café.
• Depart for Hanoi in the late afternoon (approximately 5-6 hours drive).

Evening:

• Arrive back in Hanoi. Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant or grab some last-minute souvenirs in the Old Quarter.
• If time allows, take a final stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake to soak in the atmosphere one last time.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Make sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking and trekking.
• Keep your camera handy; the landscapes are breathtaking!
• Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations; they’re often very friendly and helpful.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful and relaxing family trip! Enjoy every moment in Vietnam! 🌏✨