9-Day Vietnam Tour | Explore the North and Central | Top Packages

Experience Vietnam in 9 days with authentic local guides, covering Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Da Nang, and Hoi An. Price at $899 per person, with a mix of cultural sights, natural wonders, and seaside adventures.
Our favorite parts include the unique Jeep city tour in Hanoi and the sunset cruise in Lan Ha Bay, which offer authentic, memorable moments.
One thing to consider is that the pace can be quite full, with long days and active excursions, so it’s best for travelers comfortable with busy schedules.
This tour suits those who want a comprehensive taste of Vietnam—its cities, landscapes, and coastlines—without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Covers transportation, accommodations, meals, and entry fees, making it straightforward and stress-free.
• Diverse Destinations: Combines bustling Hanoi, scenic Pu Luong, iconic Ninh Binh, stunning Ha Long Bay, and vibrant Da Nang & Hoi An.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy local cuisine and cultural sites, from traditional villages to famous caves and pagodas.
• Expert Guides & Comfortable Transport: Knowledgeable guides lead the way, with air-conditioned vehicles and small group sizes (max 12).
• Active & Memorable: Expect trekking, biking, boat rides, and scenic views, ideal for travelers who love hands-on experiences.
• Great Value: At $899, the tour offers a lot—covering many must-see spots efficiently, with most meals and entrance fees included.

If you’re considering a trip to Vietnam that balances iconic sights with genuine local encounters, this 9-day tour by Authentic Adventures ticks many boxes. It’s designed to introduce you to the country’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and tranquil countryside—all while providing comfort and expert guidance.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

At $899 per person, this all-inclusive package is pretty attractive. It includes domestic flights, accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and transportation. With such a comprehensive setup, you won’t waste hours worrying about logistics or extra costs — just focus on soaking up the sights and stories. The small-group size (up to 12 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, where guides can tailor insights and answer your questions.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi
Your adventure begins with an airport pick-up and a chance to explore Hanoi in style via a vintage army jeep tour. This isn’t your typical city drive; it’s a fun, up-close look at Hanoi’s sights, smells, and flavors, with a nostalgic twist. Many reviews mention this as a highlight, praising the unique experience and friendly guides who make it memorable.

Day 2: Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Leaving Hanoi early, you’ll head towards the Pu Luong area, famous for stunning rice terraces and rural scenery. The highlight here is a 6 km trek to remote villages of the Black Thai minority, passing by terraced fields and the impressive Kho Muong Cave. Reviews rave about the breathtaking beauty and the chance to learn about local culture.

After a restful night at a local homestay, you’ll get an authentic taste of rural Vietnam—cooking with villagers, relaxing by the pool, and enjoying a specially prepared dinner. Expect a deep dive into local life, which many reviewers say is a rare treasure.

Day 3: Hieu Falls & Ninh Binh
The morning includes a trek to Hieu Falls, where you’ll have the chance to swim in cool waters after a scenic walk. Many mention the refreshing nature experience as a highlight.
In the afternoon, the journey continues to Ninh Binh, known as “Halong Bay on land,” with limestone karsts and lush scenery. Visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Town, craft villages, and the famous Bich Dong Pagoda give you a broad taste of Vietnam’s cultural roots.

Day 4: Trang An & Mua Cave
A cycling trip takes you through peaceful countryside to Trang An, where traditional bamboo boats glide through caves and valleys—an experience many find mesmerizing.
Later, hiking up to Mua Cave offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, becoming a favorite for travelers after the climb. Visiting smaller craft villages adds a layer of authenticity—reviews mention the beauty of the landscape and the serenity of traditional life.

Day 5-6: Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay Cruise
One of the tour’s crown jewels. The cruise departs from Ninh Binh with a scenic transfer to Tuan Chau Marina. Once aboard, you’ll cruise Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded but equally scenic cousin of Ha Long Bay.
Expect kayaking, sunset parties, and a cooking demonstration on board. Many reviews highlight the delicious seafood, the spectacular views, and the relaxing atmosphere.
Early mornings feature Tai Chi and sunrise views, with the option to kayak or swim—an experience praised for its tranquility and stunning vistas.

Day 7: Da Nang & Ba Na Hills
Flying from Ha Long Bay to Da Nang, you’ll spend a day exploring the famous Golden Bridge, Linh Ung Pagoda, and the French Village.
The cable car ride to Ba Na Hills offers spectacular panoramic views and is often described as a must-do for its record-breaking length and scenic beauty. Many travelers enjoy the amusement park and fantasy park, creating a playful contrast to the cultural sites earlier.

Day 8: Cham Island & Hoi An
A day dedicated to island life. You’ll ride high-speed boats to Cham Island, with stops at beaches, seafood markets, and ancient pagodas. The snorkeling and swimming are typically described as refreshing and fun, perfect for a relaxed day by the sea.
Returning to Hoi An in the evening, you’ll have free time to explore the lantern-lit streets or enjoy local cuisine. Many reviews mention the delight of combining seaside activities with cultural exploration in Hoi An.

Day 9: My Khe Beach & Departure
The trip wraps up with a relaxing morning at Da Nang’s My Khe Beach—famous for its smooth sands and gentle waves. After a final lunch, you’ll head to the airport, with many travelers noting the seamless organization and friendly service.

Why This Tour Works Well

We loved the way the itinerary balances active adventures like trekking, biking, and kayaking with cultural visits and relaxing moments by the sea. It’s evident that the guides are knowledgeable and eager to share local insights—reviews mention friendly, professional guides like Tran and Hang who make the experience both educational and fun.
The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, allowing for more personalized attention and spontaneous interactions. Plus, the all-inclusive nature removes the stress of extra costs, so you can focus solely on enjoying Vietnam.

What’s Unique?

The Jeep city tour in Hanoi is a standout, offering a nostalgic look at one of Asia’s most vibrant capitals. The Lan Ha Bay cruise provides a less crowded alternative to the more tourist-heavy Ha Long Bay, with equally spectacular landscapes and activities.
The tour also emphasizes local cuisine and cultural experiences, from traditional villages and craft workshops to local dishes that many reviewers describe as “delicious” and “authentic.”

Possible Drawbacks

With such a packed itinerary, days can feel long, especially for travelers not used to active schedules. Some reviews mention hot weather and full days, so being prepared physically and mentally helps. Also, the rapid pace means there’s limited free time at certain sites, which might be a downside if you prefer a more leisurely visit.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive Vietnam experience without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those who enjoy a mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and seaside relaxation. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and local insights, you’ll find this trip especially rewarding. It’s perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers eager to see Vietnam’s highlights in a well-organized package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most activities involve walking, trekking, and biking, so some level of fitness is recommended. The trek to Hieu Falls and Mua Cave are moderate, but the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy breakfasts, lunches, and dinners throughout the trip, featuring local specialties. Many reviews highlight the quality and authenticity of the food.

What is the group size?
This tour typically groups up to 12 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere and personal attention from guides.

Is there free time during the itinerary?
There are some opportunities for free time, especially in Hoi An and Da Nang, perfect for exploring at your own pace or relaxing.

How are transportation arrangements?
Air-conditioned vehicles and domestic flights are included, with transfers between major sites. The cruise on Lan Ha Bay is aboard a well-equipped boat with amenities.

Do I need to worry about entrance fees?
All entrance fees to included sites are covered, so no hidden costs when visiting popular destinations like Trang An, Ba Na Hills, or Cham Island.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is pre-arranged, many guides are flexible and can accommodate special interests or needs if notified in advance.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun protection, and swimwear for the beach and waterfall activities. Light clothing and insect repellent are also advisable.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day Vietnam tour by Authentic Adventures offers an impressive mix of scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and seaside fun. It’s a well-organized way to see Vietnam’s highlights without the stress of self-planning, especially for those who enjoy activity-packed days and authentic local experiences. Expect friendly guides, delicious food, and breathtaking views that will stay with you long after the trip ends.

If you’re after a balanced, immersive, and hassle-free Vietnam adventure, this tour is hard to beat—especially given the glowing reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides, spectacular scenery, and delicious local cuisine. It’s ideal for travelers eager to explore, learn, relax, and create memorable moments in this vibrant country.