3 day itinerary for Vietnam

Itinerary

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. I’m excited to help you craft an itinerary that’s off the beaten path and allows you to experience the local charm. Let’s dive into your 3-day adventure!

## Day 1: Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Morning:

• Train to Ninh Binh: Start your day early with a scenic train ride from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, and you’ll be treated to beautiful views of rice paddies and limestone mountains.
• Check-in: Upon arrival, check into a mid-range hotel like the Tam Coc Garden Resort or Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel. They offer a cozy atmosphere and are well-located.

Afternoon:

• Tam Coc Boat Ride: After settling in, head to Tam Coc for a peaceful boat ride through the stunning karst landscapes. This area is often referred to as “Halong Bay on land.” You’ll glide through rice fields and limestone caves, and it’s less crowded than Halong Bay.
• Lunch: Enjoy a local meal at a nearby restaurant. Try the Ninh Binh goat meat dish, a local specialty!

Evening:

• Explore Bich Dong Pagoda: After lunch, visit the Bich Dong Pagoda, a beautiful series of temples set against a backdrop of lush greenery. It’s a serene spot to soak in the atmosphere.
• Dinner: Head back to Ninh Binh town for dinner at a local eatery. Sample some Bun Cha or Pho.
• Relax: Spend the evening at your hotel or take a stroll around the area to enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

## Day 2: Ninh Binh to Sapa

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
• Train to Sapa: Catch a morning train from Ninh Binh to Lao Cai, then take a bus or taxi to Sapa. The journey will take around 6-7 hours, but the views are absolutely worth it!

Afternoon:

• Check-in: Once in Sapa, check into a mid-range hotel like Sapa Horizon Hotel or Sapa Legend Hotel.
• Lunch: Grab a bite at a local café. Try some Sapa-style grilled fish or local mountain vegetables.

Evening:

• Explore Sapa Town: Spend your afternoon wandering around Sapa town. Visit the local market and interact with the ethnic minority groups. You’ll find beautiful handicrafts and textiles.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t miss out on trying Thang Co, a traditional dish made with horse meat, if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Night Market: If you’re up for it, check out the night market for some local snacks and souvenirs.

## Day 3: Sapa to Hanoi

Morning:

• Trekking in the Countryside: After breakfast, embark on a guided trek to nearby villages like Cat Cat or Ta Van. This is a fantastic way to experience the stunning rice terraces and meet local tribes. The trek can be tailored to your fitness level, and you’ll get to see breathtaking views along the way.

Afternoon:

• Lunch with a Local Family: If possible, arrange to have lunch with a local family in one of the villages. It’s a wonderful way to experience authentic Vietnamese hospitality and home-cooked meals.
• Return to Sapa: Head back to Sapa town, freshen up, and grab your bags.

Evening:

• Train Back to Hanoi: Take the bus back to Lao Cai and catch an evening train back to Hanoi. The train ride will give you time to reflect on your amazing trip!
• Dinner in Hanoi: Once you arrive in Hanoi, if you’re not too tired, grab a late dinner at a local eatery. Try some Cha Ca (grilled fish) or Banh Mi for a quick bite.

Tips:

• Train Tickets: Book your train tickets in advance, especially for the popular routes.
• Local Guides: Consider hiring local guides for the trekking and boat rides to enhance your experience and support the community.
• Cash: Keep some cash handy, as smaller places may not accept cards.

I hope this itinerary gives you a fantastic taste of Vietnam’s beauty and culture while keeping you away from the tourist crowds. Enjoy your adventure! 🌏✨