Lan Ha bay and Ninh Binh

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Vietnam

Northern Vietnam

3 days

Lan Ha bay

Classic

Overview

This 3-day, 2-night tour will take you to discover Lan Ha Bay and Ninh Binh, also known as “Halong Bay on land.”

You’ll sail aboard one of our three traditional junks in the southern part of Cat Ba Island, a lesser-known area of Halong Bay.

The journey then continues to Ninh Binh, where you’ll explore the province’s must-see sites.

With this tour, you get straight to the essentials—perfect if you have limited time in Northern Vietnam.

Practical Information

Duration

3 days

Start/End

Hanoi/Hanoi

Tour guide language

English

Visited regions

Baie de Lan Ha, Ninh Binh

Best time to go

All year

Ideal for

Everyone

Difficulty

None

Accommodation

Hotel and junk

Photo Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1

Hanoi - Cat Ba island - Lan Ha bay (L, D)

Departure from Hanoi by car at 8:00 a.m. Our driver will pick you up at your hotel for the transfer to Dinh Vu pier (110 km – about 2 hours by road). From Dinh Vu, you will take a local ferry (20 minutes) to reach Phu Long pier. After the ferry, you’ll continue on to Cat Ba town (about 30 km), where our junk is located.

We offer a one-hour motorbike ride with driver, off the beaten track, or a bus transfer if you prefer not to ride a motorbike—depending on your budget and preference. The organization is flexible and will be explained to you the day before departure.

Around 12:30, you will board one of our junks (private or shared, depending on your choice; maximum 4 cabins). The junk first sails through the fishing village of Hang Vem in Lan Ha Bay. Take this opportunity to relax, swim, and enjoy the beaches. You will also have the chance to go kayaking and explore a fishing village.

Lunch and dinner will be served on board, featuring freshly purchased seafood (fish, shrimp, squid, shellfish) as well as stir-fried meats and vegetables. You will spend the night on board, anchored in a peaceful cove in the middle of Lan Ha Bay.

Day 2

Lan Ha bay - Cat Ba bay - Ninh Binh (B, L)

Your disembarkation is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. For the morning program (to be arranged the day before with the guide or crew), you can choose between a 2-hour round-trip bike ride to Viet Hai village, a boat excursion around the bay, or a relaxing time on the beach. Depending on the junk’s availability, lunch may be served on board—we will confirm this at embarkation (otherwise, lunch will be arranged on Cat Ba Island).

Afterwards, you will be transferred from Cat Ba Island to Phu Long, where a local ferry will take you back to Dinh Vu (20 minutes). From there, you will continue by car to Ninh Binh, arriving around 5:30 p.m. Dinner and overnight stay at Tam Coc Nam Hoa Hotel or equivalent (to be confirmed in advance).

Day 3

Ninh Binh - Hanoi (B, L)

After breakfast, enjoy a bike ride to visit the Jade Pagoda, Thai Vi Temple, and the rice fields of Tam Coc. Then, climb to the top of Mua Mountain (450 steps) to admire the breathtaking panoramic view over the entire Tam Coc region. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, discover the Trang An complex with its 10 natural tunnels during a bamboo boat ride. Return to Hanoi by local bus, arriving around 7:00 p.m.

FAQ

Is this a private or group tour?

All our tours are private. You will travel with your own vehicle, driver, and guide, ensuring maximum comfort and flexibility throughout your journey.

I’m traveling alone — can I book this tour?

Private tours for solo travelers are significantly more expensive, and most guides are unwilling to lead one-person tours. Therefore, this itinerary is available starting from 2 travelers.

If you’re traveling alone, we can offer day trips or short excursions instead.

Is the international flight included?

No, our tours begin upon your arrival in Vietnam.

However, we’re happy to assist you in booking your international flights if needed.

When is the best time to do this tour?

You’ll find the ideal travel period in the “Practical Info” section, based on the climate in the regions visited.

That said, this tour is available year-round, with a few adjustments depending on the season.

Who is this tour designed for?

This itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking cultural discovery and immersion in nature.

It can be adapted for couples, families, or groups of friends of all ages.

Can this tour be customized?

Absolutely! All our tours are fully customizable.

You can modify the duration, change accommodations, add activities, or adjust the pace according to your preferences.

How do I book this tour?

Simply send us a request using the contact form on this page.

One of our travel advisors will get back to you quickly to finalize your itinerary and provide a personalized quote.

Destinations Visited on this Tour

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Estimated Budget

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Like this tour?

Let’s talk and tailor it to your wishes.

By phone

+84 9 66 59 98 05

By email

info@parfumdautomne.fr

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