Hanoi: 3 Days – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

This 3-day tour of northern Vietnam offers travelers a well-curated glimpse into the region’s alluring blend of historic sites, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh and the iconic Halong Bay, the itinerary promises an immersive journey through some of the country’s most renowned destinations. With comfortable accommodations, diverse dining options, and a range of activities, this tour provides a seamless way to discover the essence of northern Vietnam. But what truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay from the comfort of an overnight cruise. As the sun sets over the emerald waters, one can only imagine the unforgettable sights and memories that await.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Ninh Binh.

Key Points

• Explore northern Vietnam in a 3-day tour, visiting Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay, with hotel pickup, scenic drives, and a private room on a Halong Bay cruise.
• Experience authentic local accommodations, including a homestay in Tam Coc with a swimming pool and a private room on the Halong Bay cruise.
• Discover the rich history, culture, and architecture of Hanoi, including the Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Temple of Literature.
• Immerse in the stunning natural landscapes of Ninh Binh, with visits to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Ngoa Long mountain, showcasing Vietnam’s natural beauty.
• Enjoy a memorable Halong Bay cruise experience, with activities such as kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing, as well as the chance to explore the Sung Sot cave.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

This 3-day tour offers travelers the chance to explore the highlights of northern Vietnam, including the bustling city of Hanoi, the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh, and the iconic Halong Bay.

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Hanoi, followed by a scenic drive to the picturesque Ninh Binh region. Here, visitors will explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the Trang An complex, and trek up Ngoa Long mountain.

The adventure then continues with an overnight cruise on Halong Bay, where guests can kayak, swim, and try their hand at squid fishing. The tour also includes visits to the Sung Sot cave and the Bich Dong Pagoda, ensuring a well-rounded experience of northern Vietnam’s natural and cultural wonders.

Accommodation Details

The tour includes two types of accommodation:

• A private room on the Halong Bay cruise. This offers a comfortable and scenic experience, allowing you to fully learn about the natural beauty of the bay.

• A private room in a homestay with a swimming pool in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh. This provides a more authentic and local experience, with access to the on-site swimming pool.

Both accommodations are designed to guarantee a relaxing and enjoyable stay, complementing the various activities and sights that are part of this thorough 3-day journey.

Hanoi Exploration

Your 3-day adventure begins in the vibrant capital city of Hanoi, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore its rich history and dynamic culture. Strolling through the bustling Old Quarter, you’ll discover a maze of narrow streets lined with centuries-old architecture, local shops, and lively street food vendors, offering an enthralling glimpse into the city’s daily rhythm.

Top Attractions in Hanoi	Must-Try Dishes
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum	Pho
Temple of Literature	Bún Chả
One Pillar Pagoda	Bánh Mì
Hoan Kiem Lake	Egg Coffee
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

With a mix of historical landmarks and modern attractions, Hanoi offers endless opportunities to learn about the essence of Vietnamese culture.

Ninh Binh Adventures

Leaving the vibrant streets of Hanoi behind, the journey continues to the stunning natural landscapes of Ninh Binh, a region renowned for its dramatic karst formations, serene rivers, and ancient cultural sites.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Hoa Lu ancient capital, once the seat of power for the Dinh and Early Le dynasties.

Trekking up the Ngoa Long mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while exploring the Trang An complex reveals a network of waterways, caves, and temples nestled among the towering limestone cliffs.

The day culminates with a visit to the centuries-old Bich Dong Pagoda, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich religious and architectural heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Halong Bay Cruise

After exploring the engaging landscapes of Ninh Binh, the journey continues to the majestic Halong Bay, where travelers set out on an unforgettable overnight cruise amidst the iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters.

The cruise offers a private room and an array of activities, including kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing. Guests can marvel at the breathtaking Sung Sot cave and enjoy both lunch and dinner on board.

The cruise provides a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, creating memories that will last a lifetime. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, the Halong Bay cruise seamlessly completes this 3-day adventure.

Onboard Activities

The overnight Halong Bay cruise offers a variety of engaging onboard activities for guests to enjoy throughout their journey.

Travelers can commence on invigorating kayaking excursions, seeing the serene waters and exploring the bay’s hidden coves. Plus, guests can take a rejuvenating swim in the emerald waters, surrounded by the region’s iconic limestone formations.

As the sun sets, the cruise provides the unique opportunity to try squid fishing, allowing visitors to actively participate in a local tradition under the night sky.

Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, the Halong Bay cruise delivers a thorough and immersive experience for all guests.

Dining Experiences

Guests aboard the Halong Bay cruise can indulge in mouthwatering dining experiences, with the vessel offering an array of delectable local and international cuisines.

Throughout the journey, travelers savor a variety of sumptuous meals, including three lunches, two dinners, and two breakfasts, all prepared by skilled onboard chefs.

The culinary offerings showcase the rich flavors and techniques of Vietnamese culinary traditions, allowing guests to enjoy the country’s vibrant food culture.

From the freshest seafood to authentic Vietnamese dishes, each meal is a delight for the senses. The cruise guarantees that guests experience the best of Vietnamese cuisine, leaving them with unforgettable memories of the country’s vibrant flavors.

Transportation Arrangements

Alongside the delectable dining experiences, the 3-day Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay tour also includes thorough transportation arrangements to guarantee a smooth journey for guests.

Travellers can expect:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off services, ensuring a convenient start and end to each day.
• Seamless transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay and then on to Ninh Binh, with all transfers taken care of.
• The use of private vehicles throughout the trip, providing a comfortable and personalized mode of transport.

These transportation amenities, combined with the tour’s other inclusions, allow guests to immerse themselves fully in the experiences without worrying about the logistics, creating a hassle-free and enjoyable 3-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Cancellation and Refund Policies?

The cancellation and refund policies vary depending on the specific tour operator. Typically, full refunds are available for cancellations made within a certain timeframe, while partial refunds or no refunds may apply for last-minute cancellations.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Absolutely, the itinerary can be modified to include additional activities. Travelers can speak with the travel provider to customize the tour and add extra experiences like bike riding, cooking classes, or visits to local villages, subject to availability and additional costs.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on This Tour?

Yes, the tour accommodates dietary restrictions. The tour operator will work with guests to guarantee their dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, are met during the included meals on the Halong Bay cruise and in the homestay.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for the Trip?

It’s recommended to bring around $50-$100 per person for additional spending money on this trip. This should cover any optional activities, extra snacks or drinks, and miscellaneous expenses not included in the tour package.

What Items Are Recommended to Pack for This Trip?

It’s recommended to pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, a small backpack, and any necessary medications. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning natural landscapes and cultural attractions.

Recap

This 3-day tour of northern Vietnam offers an enriching experience exploring Hanoi’s historic charm, Ninh Binh’s breathtaking landscapes, and the UNESCO wonder of Halong Bay.

Travelers will discover centuries-old architecture, trek scenic mountains, and cruise the emerald waters, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations, diverse dining, and a range of activities.

It’s a well-rounded journey through the alluring beauty of this mesmerizing region.

You can check if your dates are available here: