Best Time to Visit
The northern region of Vietnam experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter, with each season lasting approximately three months. The temperature characteristics of each season can be quite harsh compared to the southern region. The summer season can be hot and humid, while spring often brings chilly rains, and winter is particularly cold, especially in highland areas.
Sapa during the rice harvest season is a wonderful experience
The best time to travel to the northern region is generally from early April to late August. This period corresponds to the summer season, which is ideal for activities such as cloud hunting in Sapa or engaging in underwater activities in Halong Bay. During this time, The average daily temperature fluctuates between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius. There are more sunny hours compared to other seasons, making it a popular time for both international and domestic tourists to visit and explore.
What To See At Each Destination
Based on our own experience, we have carefully selected some unique and captivating tourist destinations for your Hanoi - Sapa - Halong Bay itinerary.
Hanoi
As the capital city with a thousand years of civilization, Hanoi proudly wears the cloak of historical tales and famous landmarks. Its bustling old streets, many eateries offer exquisite cuisine and unique experiences, which are sure to captivate you.
A coffee shop that features ancient architecture in Hanoi
Our suggestions for must-visit destinations in Hanoi:
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Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay a visit to the mausoleum, the resting place of the great leader of Vietnam.
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Hoang Thanh Thang Long (Imperial Citadel of Thang Long): A precious cultural heritage of the Vietnamese people.
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Temple of Literature: A historical relic representing the tradition of learning and education.
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Hoan Kiem Lake: The cultural and entertainment center of the city.
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Hoa Lo Prison: A testimony to a wartime era, showcasing the indomitable spirit of Vietnamese soldiers.
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Dong Xuan Market: A centuries-old market in the Old Quarter, ideal for sampling various cuisines and exploring the daily lives of the locals.
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Tran Quoc Pagoda: One of the oldest pagodas in Hanoi and a significant Buddhist center in the Thang Long ancient capital.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Sapa
Sapa town is located in Lao Cai province, over 300 km northwest of Hanoi. It is an ideal destination for immersing yourself in pristine nature and exploring the lives of ethnic minority communities. The breathtaking scenery and climate of Sapa will surely provide relaxation after days of tiring work.
Get closer to nature and the life of ethnic minorities in Sapa
Our suggestions for must-visit destinations in Sapa:
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Fansipan Mountain: Known as the "Roof of Indochina," Fansipan offers stunning panoramic views and is a popular spot for trekking and adventure activities.
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Cat Cat Village: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting this traditional Hmong village, where you can witness traditional crafts, costumes, and daily life.
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Muong Hoa Valley: Explore the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley, adorned with terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. It's a great place for hiking and photography.
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Bac Ha Market: If you visit Sapa on a Sunday, don't miss the vibrant Bac Ha Market, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere and browse through a wide variety of local products and handicrafts.
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Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall: These scenic waterfalls are located near Sapa and offer serene natural beauty.
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Ta Phin Village: Visit this Red Dao ethnic village to learn about its unique culture, traditional herbal bath practices, and intricate embroidery.
Visiting Bac Ha Market on a weekend allows you to experience the lively atmosphere
Halong Bay
Halong Bay, known as the "heaven on earth" of northern Vietnam, is just a 2-hour drive east of Hanoi. It is a natural wonder of the world recognized by UNESCO for its unique landscape of hundreds of thousands of islands and limestone karsts scattered across the bay. If you visit northern Vietnam, you definitely should visit this destination.
Halong Bay truly is a heavenly place on Earth
Our suggestions for must-visit destinations in Halong:
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Beautiful islands: Ti Top Island, Tuan Chau Island, Ngoc Vung Island, and Co To Island.
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Picturesque beaches: Ba Trai Dao Beach, Ngoc Vung Beach, and Minh Chau Beach.
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Magnificent caves: Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Luon Cave, Dau Go Cave, Kim Quy Cave, and Trong Cave.
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Vung Vieng Fishing Village: Explore and experience the daily life of the local fishing community.
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Bai Tu Long National Park: This national park consists of marine and forest ecosystems, preserving a variety of rare flora and fauna.
Sung Sot Cave: A magnificent beauty bestowed by nature
Our Suggested Itineraries
Hanoi Sapa Halong Bay 4 days
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Day 1: Hanoi Arrival |
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Day 2: Hanoi - Sapa |
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Day 3: Sapa - The World Heritage Site - Halong Bay |
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Day 4: Halong Bay - Hanoi |
(Options: Kayaking at Ti Top Island, relaxing on Ba Trai Dao beach, scuba diving at Bai Tu Long Bay).
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Hanoi Sapa Halong Bay 5 days
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Day 1: Hanoi Arrival - Sapa |
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Day 2: Fansipan - Lao Cai |
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Day 3: Lao Cai - Hanoi |
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Day 4: Hanoi - Halong Bay |
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Day 5: Halong Bay - Hanoi |
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Fansipan - the Roof of Indochina
Hanoi Sapa Halong Bay 7 days
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Day 1: Hanoi Arrival |
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Day 2: Hanoi City Tour |
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Day 3: Hanoi - Sapa |
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Day 4: Fansipan - Hanoi |
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Day 5: Hanoi _ Halong Bay |
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Day 6: Halong Bay - Hanoi |
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Day 7: Departure |
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Want to explore further? Check out our post about travel guide in Vietnam!
We have just shared some fantastic suggestions for your Hanoi - Sapa - Halong Bay itinerary. But wait, there’s room for customization! If you have any extra ideas or specific preferences for your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out. New Asia Tours is ready to provide top-notch advice and make your Vietnam tour truly memorable.
