If you’ve landed on this article, you’re probably planning your next trip to Vietnam—or even to Southeast Asia as a whole. And if you’re thinking about spending 15 days exploring the north of Vietnam, then you’re in the right place. Vietnam is a truly amazing country, and I’m excited to share a 15-day itinerary packed with the best activities in northern Vietnam.

Exploring Hanoi & Surroundings

How to Get to the North of Vietnam:
If you’re flying into the north of Vietnam, book your flight to Hanoi, the capital city. If you’re coming from Laos, you can also take a bus from Vientiane to Hanoi. I recommend using 12GO Asia to book buses and ferries across Southeast Asia, as it’s a reliable platform with good options for travel.

Hanoi: 3 Days

Accommodation:
Stay around the Old Quarter for the best atmosphere. I personally stayed at Buffalo Hostel, which was fantastic. The cost was about $8 USD per night, and it included a buffet breakfast. Pro tip: Book your hostel in advance, as it gets pretty busy.

Day 1 Activities:

• Walking Tour of the Old Quarter: The hostel offers a walking tour around the Old Quarter—don’t miss it! It’s a great way to get your bearings and see some of the iconic spots in the area.
  
• Water Puppet Show: Check out the famous Water Puppet Show in the Old Quarter. It’s a must-see cultural experience! Here’s the Google Maps link for directions. You can buy tickets at the entrance.
  
• Coffee Stops: Hanoi is famous for its coffee culture. Try coconut coffee and the iconic egg coffee at one of these spots:
  • The Note Coffee: This is one of the most Instagrammable coffee shops in Hanoi. It’s filled with colorful post-it notes and has an amazing view of the Old Quarter.
    
• Lunch: Try Pho Bo, fried rice, or Bun Cha. If you’re vegetarian, the tofu in tomato sauce is a delicious, must-try dish!
  
• Evening: Head to Beer Street for an evening of local drinks, food, and music. It’s a lively spot, especially in the evenings, and a great way to soak in the local vibe.

Day 2 Activities:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It’s a monumental structure dedicated to Vietnam’s revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. You can learn about his life and the history of the country’s fight for independence.
  
• War Museum: Check out the Vietnam War Museum, which offers fascinating insights into Vietnam’s history and the long conflict with the United States.
  
• Ho Chi Minh’s House: Visit the modest Ho Chi Minh House—a stilt house where the leader lived for a period of time.
  
• Train Street: Visit the famous Train Street, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the train passes through. It’s an unforgettable experience! Be sure to check the schedule beforehand.

• Night Market: If you’re in Hanoi on a weekend, from 8 pm to 11 pm, don’t miss the Night Market. It’s full of cheap, quirky items—everything from clothes to gadgets and souvenirs.

Day 3 Activities:

• Quang Phu Cau Incense Village: Book a one-day tour via platforms like GetYourGuide to visit Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, where you’ll see how incense is traditionally made. If you’re interested in cultural crafts, you can even try making your own conical hat!
  
• Cooking Class at Apron Up: Alternatively, sign up for a cooking class at Apron Up in Hanoi. You’ll learn to cook five Vietnamese dishes, including spring rolls, papaya salad, Bun Cha, Pho Bo, and egg coffee. It’s a fun way to meet fellow travelers and deepen your understanding of Vietnamese cuisine.

Ha Giang Loop: 4 Days

The Ha Giang Loop is one of the most scenic adventures in northern Vietnam. It’s a bike tour around the stunning mountainous landscapes in the far north of the country. The tour usually lasts 3 to 4 days, and I highly recommend it.

I booked my tour through Buffalo Tours at the Buffalo Hostel. It’s a great option because if you book here, you get one night of free accommodation at the hostel, plus the opportunity to go with fellow travelers.

If you’re not comfortable riding a motorcycle, you can opt for an Easy Rider (a local driver who takes you on the loop). The roads can be challenging, and if you’re driving, you might miss the stunning views of Vietnam’s mountains.

The cost is about $180 USD for the 4-day tour, which includes everything—transportation to Ha Giang, accommodation, and meals (3 meals a day). I was initially unsure whether to go for the 3-day or 4-day tour, but I’m so glad I chose the 4-day option—it gives you more time to appreciate the landscapes and culture. Pro tip: If you’re traveling in January, be prepared for cold weather! I had to buy a fake North Face jacket and gloves in Hanoi to stay warm.

Sapa: 3 Days

Sapa is renowned for its trekking tours through the mountains and rice terraces. The town is picturesque, and the surrounding landscapes are breathtaking.

• Option 1: You can take a bus to Sapa and, once you arrive, find local guides who can take you on treks.
• Option 2: Book a guided tour from Hanoi, where you’ll be picked up, taken to Sapa, and then guided on a 3-day trek through the mountains. You’ll also stay with local families, which gives you a deeper cultural experience.

One of the best parts of the trekking tours is learning how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes, like spring rolls, with the local families.

Ha Long Bay: 2 Days

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s natural wonders, and a visit here is an absolute must. The best way to experience the bay is by taking a 2-day, 1-night cruise that takes you around the islands, caves, and viewpoint spots.

I did a 1-day boat tour, which was more affordable and included lunch and transportation, but if you have more time and budget, I’d highly recommend splurging on a luxury 2-day cruise. Prices aren’t as high as you might think, and it’s definitely worth the extra time to explore Ha Long Bay at a more leisurely pace.

Ninh Binh: 2 Days

Ninh Binh is another highlight of my trip. The landscape here is truly stunning. The river tours through the karst mountains, with ladies rowing boats using their legs, is something you won’t forget.

Even though I only had time for a one-day trip, I highly recommend spending two days here to fully soak in the beauty of the Tam Coc area and nearby attractions like Trang An and Bich Dong Pagoda.

Conclusion:

While I didn’t have time to explore southern Vietnam, I definitely recommend visiting cities like Da Nang, Hoi An, Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc if you can extend your travels.

Vietnam is an amazing country with a rich culture and history. If you’re wondering whether or not to go—do it! You won’t regret it.

Pro tip: Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly—temperatures can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year.