Northern Vietnam’s top full-day excursions pack the region’s greatest hits into efficient, memorable outings. You’ll find surprisingly good value in Ninh Binh’s countryside tours, where peaceful boat rides glide through Trang An’s limestone peaks, paired with stops at the ancient Hoa Lu capital and panoramic Mua Cave. Hanoi’s city tours efficiently connect the must-sees – the stately Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the historic Temple of Literature are particular standouts. My favorite remains the classic Halong Bay day cruise, where limestone karsts rise from emerald waters, and activities like kayaking let you explore at your own pace.
Let’s explore these outstanding tours that showcase the best of Northern Vietnam.
Key Points
-
Ninh Binh’s full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience with a boat ride, visits to historical sites, and an included lunch, all at a reasonable price of €42.29 per person.
-
Hanoi’s full-day city tour provides a culture through visits to iconic landmarks, a cyclo ride, and traditional Vietnamese coffee, all for $40.98 per person.
-
Halong Bay’s premium cruise at $109 per person offers a luxurious experience with air-conditioned transfers, onboard activities, and diverse excursions, with a 100% traveler recommendation.
-
Unique experiences like a motorbike tour ($70 per person) and Halong Bay tours (€43.57-€45.51 per person) offer scenic and cultural exploration with high traveler satisfaction.
-
Comprehensive day trips from Hanoi, such as the Ninh Binh Bai Dinh tour and Halong Bay tour, provide an efficient way to experience northern Vietnam’s highlights with roundtrip transportation and guided activities.
Ninh Binh : Full Day Tour in Hoa Lu, Trang An and Mua Cave
The Ninh Binh Full Day Tour in Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of some of Northern Vietnam’s most captivating natural wonders.
Rated 4.8/5 from 43 reviews and recommended by 98% of travelers, this tour provides an excellent value at €42.29 per person.
Highlights include a boat ride through the serene Trang An landscape, visits to the historic Hoa Lu and the scenic Mua Cave, and a delicious included lunch.
With an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees covered, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a memorable experience in a convenient package.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh : Full Day Tour in Hoa Lu, Trang An and Mua Cave Review
Book now: Check availability
Hanoi Full Day – The Capital Known For Its Peaceful Beauty
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, beckons travelers with its serene beauty and rich cultural heritage. For just $40.98 per person, visitors can embark on a comprehensive full-day tour that showcases the city’s top attractions.
The tour includes a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter, offering a glimpse into local life, and the opportunity to savor a delightful traditional egg coffee. Key destinations on the itinerary include the iconic Chi Minh Mausoleum, the 1,500-year-old Tran Quoc Pagoda, the historic Temple of Literature, and the culturally significant Ngoc Son Temple.
With convenient hotel pickup, live multilingual guides, and flexible cancellation policies, this tour provides an immersive and hassle-free experience in Hanoi.
Read our full review: Hanoi Full Day – The Capital Known For Its Peaceful Beauty Review
Book now: Check availability
The Halong Catamaran Premium Cruise – Full Day Cruise Trip
For those seeking a comprehensive Halong Bay experience, the Halong Catamaran Premium Cruise – Full Day Cruise Trip delivers a remarkable journey. Priced from $109 per person, this highly-rated cruise boasts a 342-review, 100% traveler recommendation.
Included amenities span air-conditioned transfers, lunch, kayaking, cooking demos, and more. While some concerns exist around the quality of the food and the sales opportunity at a rest stop, the cruise’s highlights like the sunset ceremony and friendly staff have earned it strong guest feedback.
Suitable for most travelers, this tour’s accessibility and capacity of up to 100 guests make it a convenient option for exploring the stunning Halong Bay.
Read our full review: The Halong Catamaran Premium Cruise – Full Day Cruise Trip Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Trang An – Bich Dong Full Day Tour
Departing from Hanoi, the Private Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Trang An – Bich Dong Full Day Tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Northern Vietnam’s captivating natural wonders.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this private luxury tour showcases the stunning Mua Cave, the serene Trang An, and the picturesque Bich Dong.
Travelers will enjoy an authentic local lunch, professional English-speaking guidance, and comfortable transportation, all while having the flexibility to customize their experience.
Whether cycling through rural villages or taking a motorbike, this accessible tour caters to diverse preferences, providing an unforgettable day in the heart of Northern Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Private Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Trang An – Bich Dong Full Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Trang An Cave Boat Trip – Hoa Lu Temple Full Day Tour
Travelers seeking to explore the natural wonders and historical sites of Northern Vietnam can embark on the Trang An Cave Boat Trip – Hoa Lu Temple Full Day Tour.
Offered by Daily Vietnam Tour, this excursion takes guests on a boat trip through the Trang An scenic landscape complex and a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. The tour includes a buffet lunch, transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
While some travelers have reported issues with pickup and a disorganized itinerary, others have praised the friendly guide and enjoyable overall experience.
With a rating of 4.5/5 from 14 reviews, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Trang An Cave Boat Trip – Hoa Lu Temple Full Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Motorbike Mu Cang Chai
This full-day motorbike tour in Mu Cang Chai, Northern Vietnam, allows travelers to explore the region’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions.
Rated 5 out of 5 by 18 reviewers and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour includes a local driver, lunch, bottled water, and entrance fees.
Pickup is available from Mu Cang Chai town and nearby locations, though it’s not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Priced from $70 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Most travelers can participate in this scenic and immersive experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Motorbike Mu Cang Chai Review
Book now: Check availability
Ha Long Bay Full Day Tour : Kayak,Cave Explore,Swimming From Tuan Chau Island
Visitors to Tuan Chau Island in Northern Vietnam can embark on a full-day tour that showcases the stunning natural beauty of Ha Long Bay.
The tour includes a range of activities, such as swimming, kayaking, cave exploration, and beach relaxation. Guests will enjoy a Vietnamese cuisine lunch served on board.
The tour provides round-trip transportation from Tuan Chau Marina and includes all entrance fees. An English-speaking guide is provided throughout the experience.
Priced from €43.57 per person, this tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, with visitors praising the beautiful scenery and well-organized activities.
Read our full review: Ha Long Bay Full Day Tour : Kayak,Cave Explore,Swimming From Tuan Chau Island Review
Book now: Check availability
Halong Bay Full Day With Cave, Kayaking,Swimming,Highway Transfer
Guests can embark on a full-day excursion to the breathtaking Halong Bay, taking in its stunning natural landscapes.
The tour explores the bay for 6 hours on a Standard/Deluxe/Luxury Boat, visiting Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island. Activities include kayaking, swimming, and hiking. A Vietnamese-style lunch is provided.
Roundtrip transportation is offered via shared bus/limo or private limo, with pickups in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Tuan Chau Harbor. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, which is limited to 70 travelers.
Pricing starts at €45.51 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Past guests have praised the tour’s views, activities, and food quality.
Read our full review: Halong Bay Full Day With Cave, Kayaking,Swimming,Highway Transfer Review
Book now: Check availability
Ninh Binh Bai Dinh Trang an Mua Cave Full Day Trip From Hanoi, Boat Trip & Lunch
The full-day Ninh Binh Bai Dinh Trang an Mua Cave excursion whisks travelers from Hanoi to explore the region’s captivating landscapes.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, a boat trip in Trang An, and lunch.
Pickup is from Hanoi Old Quarter or Opera House, with a 10:15 AM start at Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Travelers receive a small water bottle and use an electric car in Bai Dinh.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Bringing recommended items like umbrellas, hiking shoes, and cameras is advised.
With a maximum of 25 travelers, this highly-rated tour offers a full-day adventure in Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh Bai Dinh Trang an Mua Cave Full Day Trip From Hanoi, Boat Trip & Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Tour to Halong With Cave and Titop Island From Hanoi
For those short on time but wanting to experience the grandeur of Halong Bay, this full-day tour from Hanoi is an ideal option.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a 6-hour cruise on a standard, deluxe, or luxury boat.
Activities range from kayaking and cave exploration to swimming and hiking on Titop Island.
Lunch, either set or buffet-style, is included, as are entrance fees.
Pickup is available from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Opera House, or private accommodations.
Travelers can also be picked up at Tuan Chau Marina in Halong City.
This tour is limited to 70 participants and has a 5.0 rating based on one review, with no negative feedback.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour to Halong With Cave and Titop Island From Hanoi Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Northern Vietnam offers a variety of captivating full-day tours. From Ninh Binh’s Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave to Hanoi’s tranquil beauty, these tours showcase the region’s natural wonders. Cruising Halong Bay, exploring caves, and swimming are popular activities. Whether you choose a private or group tour, you’ll have the chance to learn about Northern Vietnam’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.