With its dramatic karst landscapes, terraced rice paddies, emerald bays, and rich cultural tapestry, its important to go slow through North Vietnam. Rushing through this part of the country would mean missing out on the authentic experiences it has to offer.
While many travelers aim to tick off the highlights in a whirlwind trip, taking your time through North Vietnam allows for a deeper connection to its people, traditions, and awe-inspiring nature.
Here’s a thoughtfully paced 3-week itinerary that lets you absorb the essence of this spectacular region while incorporating some of the best combo tours offered by Bong Hostel, making your trip easy, memorable, and special.
Reasons Why You Should Go Slow Through North Vietnam
Northern Vietnam is a region that rewards travelers who take their time. Here are a few reasons why you should savor your journey:
1. Local Culture
Vietnam's diverse cultural tapestry is best experienced at a slower pace.
In places like Sapa and Ha Giang, you can engage with ethnic minorities like the H’mong and Red Dzao, learning about their way of life while trekking through terraced rice fields or winding through mountainous roads.
2. Landscapes
From the karst formations of Ninh Binh to the breathtaking Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang, Northern Vietnam's landscapes are some of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia.
Rushing through them means missing out on the serenity and splendor these places offer.
3. Authentic Adventures
Taking your time in North Vietnam allows for spontaneous moments, whether it's stopping at a roadside café for a strong Vietnamese coffee or finding hidden caves and local markets along your motorbike route.
Bong Hostel's tours encourage these moments of discovery, providing a perfect balance of structure and freedom.
4. Decompress and Relax
While Northern Vietnam offers adrenaline-pumping activities like motorbiking, it’s also a region where you can slow down and relax.
Cruises on Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay, or a laid-back trek through Sapa's rice fields, give you the chance to soak in the beauty of the natural world.
Should I Go to South or North Vietnam?
When choosing between South and North Vietnam, many travelers debate which destination offers the best experience. Here's why North Vietnam stands out:
1. The Scenery
While the South of Vietnam is known for its tropical beaches and the sprawling Mekong Delta, the North has an unrivaled variety of landscapes that are both awe-inspiring and less commercialized compared to the South.
They’re also some of the most diverse and dramatic landscapes in Southeast Asia. The Ha Giang Loop, for instance, offers one of the most scenic motorbike routes in the world, with jaw-dropping views at every turn.
Must Read: Most Scenic Locations on the Ha Giang Loop.
2. Authentic Cultural Experiences
Northern Vietnam is where you’ll encounter local people from various ethnic groups, including the H’mong, Tay, and Dao, living in harmony with nature and their traditions. Homestays in these villages allow you to experience their hospitality, customs, and daily life up close.
While the South is more modernized, Northern Vietnam gives you the opportunity to interact with communities that still adhere to age-old traditions. The slower pace and less developed infrastructure of the North make it an ideal place for more meaningful cultural exchanges.
3. Cooler Climate
The climate is another factor that sets Northern Vietnam apart. The North experiences four distinct seasons, with cooler weather from November to March, which many travelers find refreshing, especially when trekking or riding motorbikes.
In contrast, Southern Vietnam remains hot and humid year-round, with a less varied climate. If you’re looking for a break from the tropical heat, Northern Vietnam’s cooler months offer the perfect escape.
4. Less Crowded
Tourism in the South, particularly in popular spots like Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, and the Mekong Delta, is well-established, drawing larger crowds of both domestic and international visitors. While these places are beautiful, they can often feel more touristy and commercialized.
In contrast, Northern Vietnam still retains an air of being a hidden gem, with far fewer tourists in places like Cao Bang, the Ha Giang Loop, or even parts of Sapa.
This means you’ll have a more intimate experience with nature, local people, and the region’s culture, making Northern Vietnam an ideal destination for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.
5. Rich History and Heritage
Northern Vietnam is home to some of the country’s most important historical and cultural landmarks. Hanoi, the capital city, is a living museum of Vietnam’s rich heritage, blending ancient temples and pagodas with French colonial architecture.
Hoa Lu, the ancient capital in Ninh Binh, offers a window into Vietnam’s early history, while Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance.
Southern Vietnam, while also rich in history, is more focused on modern events such as the Vietnam War, with places like the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum taking center stage.
Must Read: Why you Should take a Day Trip to Ninh Binh.
6. Ideal for Adventure Enthusiasts
If adventure is what you're after, Northern Vietnam is the place to be. The region’s rugged terrain makes it a haven for trekking, motorbike tours, and rock climbing.
In contrast, the South’s landscape is flatter and more tropical, making it better suited for water-based activities like exploring the Mekong Delta or relaxing on the beaches of Phu Quoc.
Ultimately, Vietnam offers a combination of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness that can make your travel experience feel both exhilarating and deeply rewarding.
When is the Best Time to Visit North Vietnam?
The best time to visit North Vietnam depends on the region and what you want to do. For a balanced trip across all the regions in this itinerary, March and April are ideal, as the weather is cool in the north and dry throughout the country.
However, be mindful of the rainy season, which lasts from May to October. Due to its location between the North and South Pacific Ocean, Vietnam is also prone to typhoons. Typhoon season typically occurs from June to November.
Must Read: Ha Giang Loop Weather: August to September.
Useful Vietnamese Phrases
While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few Vietnamese phrases can enhance your travel experience. Here are a few to get you started:
Hello: Xin chào / Chaò
Thank you: Cảm ơn
How much?: Bao nhiêu?
I don’t understand: Tôi không hiểu
Goodbye: Tạm biệt
What is a Good Budget for 3 Weeks in Vietnam?
The cost of traveling through North Vietnam depends on your style. For backpackers, a budget of 30-50 GBP / 45-65 USD per day should be enough, while mid-range travelers might spend around 60-70 GBP / 85-95 USD per day.
This budget covers accommodation, food, transportation, and tours. If you plan to join Bong Hostel’s combo tours, keep in mind that they include accommodation, meals, and guided experiences, making it easier to manage your expenses.
Must Read: How to Explore North Vietnam on a Budget.
What to Pack for 3 Weeks in North Vietnam?
Packing smart is key for a 3-week journey through North Vietnam. The weather can get chilly, especially in the mountains, so bring a warm fleece or jacket.
During the rainy season, be sure to pack a raincoat, umbrella, and quick-drying shoes. For warmer areas like Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay, light clothing, beachwear, and sunscreen are essential. Lastly, don’t forget your travel adapter!
Depending on the time of year, your packing list may vary. Here are some essentials:
Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics for hot weather; a fleece or jacket for cooler northern evenings.
Rain gear: A poncho or umbrella if you're traveling during the rainy season.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes for hiking and walking, as well as sandals for beach days.
Other essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, e-sim, small first-aid kit, power bank, and a universal travel adapter.
Must Read: What to Pack for the Ha Giang Loop.
A 3-Week Itinerary For North Vietnam
Day 1-3: Hanoi
Begin your journey at Bong Hanoi Hostel in the bustling capital, a city that offers a perfect balance between tradition and modernity.
Spend your days wandering the Old Quarter, a maze of ancient streets lined with shops, cafés, and street food stalls. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and catching a traditional water puppet show.
Make sure to join Bong Hostel’s Hanoi food tour, sampling authentic Vietnamese street food while navigating the city's lively streets. Try staples like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee as you uncover Hanoi’s culinary heritage.
Must Read: 31 Local Dishes to Try in North Vietnam.
Bong Hostel Tip: We recommend a motorbike food tour, a fun way to see the city and savor local dishes. Join our 10-day North Vietnam tour, which includes a motorbike food tour through Hanoi's best spots.
Day 3-5: Ninh Binh
After soaking up the energy of Hanoi, head to the tranquil countryside of Ninh Binh, often called "Ha Long Bay on land." Take a boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, visit the Bai Dinh Pagoda, and cycle through peaceful countryside villages.
Must Read: Things to do in Ninh Binh.
Bong Hostel Tip: This leg of your journey is perfectly complemented by Bong Hostel’s Ha Giang – Ninh Binh Combo Tour, a seamless way to experience both regions without worrying about logistics.
Day 5-7: Ha Long Bay
From Ninh Binh, take a bus or car to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay. On your first day, embark on an overnight cruise, sailing through the peaceful waters.
Day two offers plenty of time for swimming and soaking in the magnificent beauty of the bay. You can explore hidden caves, or simply relax on deck, watching the ever-changing light on the water.
Highlights:
Cruise to Sung Sot Cave, kayak through emerald waters, and relax with a sunset party on deck.
Must Read: Discover the Magic of Ha Long Bay.
Day 7-9: Cat Ba Island
After your Ha Long Bay cruise, take the ferry to Cat Ba Island. This laid-back island offers hiking, rock climbing, and access to the less crowded Lan Ha Bay.
Rent a scooter or join a guided tour of Cat Ba National Park, where hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints over the island. Alternatively, spend your day relaxing on Cat Co Beach, soaking in the tranquil island vibes.
You could also take the opportunity to explore Lan Ha Bay, kayaking through hidden grottoes and into bright blue lagoons.
Must Read: Top Things to do on Cat Ba Island.
Day 9-10: Hanoi (Stopover)
Before heading to the mountainous regions, return to Hanoi for a one-day stopover. Use this day to rest, explore more of the city, or simply wander around, savoring the street food and coffee culture.
Must Read: 20+ Best Things to do in Hanoi.
Day 10-13: Sapa – Trekking Amongst the Rice Terraces
Next, head north to the misty mountains of Sapa, a region famous for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. Sapa’s landscapes are a world away from the urban centers, offering an idyllic setting for trekking.
Over the next three days, continue your trekking adventure through the Ta Van and Giang Ta Chai villages, where the lush green rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see.
Bong Hostel’s Ha Giang Loop – Sapa Combo Tour allows you to pair this trekking experience with a thrilling motorbike adventure in Ha Giang.
Highlights:
Trek to Ta Van village
Stay in a local homestay
Visit the Sapa market
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not tackle Mount Fansipan?
Must Read: The Best Hiking Trails in Sapa in 2024.
Day 13-17: Ha Giang Loop – The Ultimate Motorbike Adventure
No trip to North Vietnam is complete without tackling the Ha Giang Loop, a 4-day motorbike journey through some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the country.
With Bong Hostel, you’ll have the option of riding your own motorbike or opting for an easy rider—a guide who drives while you sit back and enjoy the views.
Highlights:
Conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass, Tham Ma Pass, Nho Que River, visit Dong Van’s Karst Plateau, and stay in traditional ethnic villages.
Bong Hostel Tip: This is an experience not to be rushed, as the winding roads, towering karst formations, and isolated villages offer something new around every bend. Therefore we recommend embarking on the 4 days 3 nights tour, not the 3 days 2 nights tour.
Day 17-20: Cao Bang – Off the Beaten Path
For the final leg of your 3-week journey, continue from Ha Giang to the lesser-known but equally breathtaking province of Cao Bang. This area, close to the Chinese border, is home to some of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Visit the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Vietnam and one of the most spectacular in Southeast Asia. The waterfall straddles the border between Vietnam and China, and its sheer power and beauty are awe-inspiring.
Then explore the nearby Nguom Ngao Cave, a stunning underground wonder filled with unique stalactites and stalagmites. Finally, spend your last day in Cao Bang enjoying the tranquil countryside, visiting local villages, or taking a dip in Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest natural lake.
This final stretch of your adventure can be seamlessly planned with Bong Hostel’s Ha Giang Extended Tour to Cao Bang, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience while the logistics are taken care of.
Day 20-21: Hanoi (Return)
Return to Hanoi for your final day, where you can relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore any remaining sights you may have missed.
Go Slow Through North Vietnam with Bong Hostel
By going slow through North Vietnam, you'll be exploring its wealth of natural and cultural wonders in way that they deserve. By taking your time and opting for a slower, more intentional journey, you’ll have the chance to connect with local communities, savor the landscapes, and fully appreciate the region’s history and beauty.
And with Bong Hostel's expertly designed tours, especially our combo tours, you'll have the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, all while enjoying the peace of mind that everything is planned for you.
Going slow allows you to enjoy the journey in its fullest sense—because in North Vietnam, the magic is in the details.
