North Vietnam Guide: Epic 2-Week Itinerary – The Mindful Traveller

Here is a complete travel guide to North Vietnam, including how to get around, when to visit and an incredible 2-week itinerary that ensures you see the best attractions and sights this country offers. From Hanoi to Sapa and the Ha Giang Loop, this backpacking guide is perfect for first-timers and will allow you to get to know the country and locals on a deeper level.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country steeped in history and diversity. Backpacking across its land is an experience like no other. It gives you the opportunity to slow down and appreciate the scenery from a unique perspective.

My friend Kweland and I visited Vietnam in June for two weeks. The Asian continent was unknown to me, and I was very excited. We did not plan much before the trip and decided to go backpacking one day at a time. As Vietnam is a long country and it takes a long time to see it all, we focused on the north.

In addition, we had similar plans for accommodation. We booked a room for the night each day on Booking.com, and it was always very convenient.

In this article, I give you the tools you need to have an unforgettable experience in Northern Vietnam. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

My Vietnam experience:
Duration 15 Days
Dates visited June 14 - Jul 03
Season Summer

Overview: 2-Week North Vietnam Itinerary

  • Day 1/3 (2 nights) – Hanoi
  • Day 3/5 (2 nights) – Sapa
  • Day 5/8 (3 nights) – Ha Giang
  • Day 8/10 (2 nights) – Cao Bang
  • Day 10/12 (2 nights) – Cat Ba Island
  • Day 12/13 (2 nights) – Ninh Binh
  • Day 13/14 (1 night) – Hanoi

How long to spend in North Vietnam? 

I suggest spending at least 14 days in North Vietnam. 

Vietnam does not seem like it, but it is a lengthy country, so reaching a city can take up to 15 hours by bus. That is why it is necessary to think about the travel time between each stop when planning your backpacking trip, either by bus or motorbike. 

Even if you focus on the northern part of the country, the journeys will be tiring. Allow plenty of time to travel and do whatever you want at your destination.

That is also why I recommend spending two nights at each stop, so you can see the main attractions and highlights without rushing. 

Spending less time is fine, but you will be either exhausted at the end or will have to cut on some parts. On the other hand, spending more time is always a great thing. It will allow you to see more and truly connect with the culture and locals! 

For my experience, I spent 15 days in North Vietnam, ending in Hoi An, and it was perfect. The only thing I regretted was not having prepared our itinerary in advance. We went there without plans, and I regret it a bit as I now realise we missed a lot and could have seen more by being organised. But getting lost and not having any expectations is also part of the beauty of backpacking. We still had an incredible time and made many friends along the way. 

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How to get around North Vietnam?

BUS

The bus is the best way to get around in Northern Vietnam. This way of travelling will be cheap, easy and safe (if you are unsure about riding a motorbike on your own).

Buses run across the country and even reach small villages lost in the mountains. It is their primary way of accessing distant places and transporting people and goods, meaning you can also jump on one of these local buses and go along with the locals. 

And because Vietnam is so lengthy, you can use sleeper buses – incredibly useful for making the most of your trip and not wasting time on transport! Sleeper buses contain small beds so you can nap/sleep during your trip. They are perfect for long night trips. 

To book these buses, ask your hotel or guesthouse. They will always be able to book the bus for you, wherever you are! It is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to travel around Vietnam. 

If you want more premium buses, check out Baolau and 12go.asia. They offer express minibuses and vans that are more comfortable and private.

MOTORBIKE

The second way to travel around North Vietnam is by motorbike. However, this might not be as cheap and safe as the bus and depends on your biking level. The roads are not always in good condition in some northern areas, and the weather can be foggy, cold and wet. Accidents are common, so drive slowly! (we met someone who badly fell on his motorbike and had to go to the local hospital). 

I recommend reading more about travelling the north on a motorbike and getting as much information as possible on where to rent/buy it, how to get petrol along the way and which routes are the best. 

TRAIN

Finally, the last way to get around North Vietnam is by train. Trains also run across the country but are not as cheap as the bus and do not reach remote villages. But they may be a good alternative if no buses are available or to get to a city faster. 

Best time to visit North Vietnam

The best time to visit North Vietnam is in spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and dry, perfect for outdoor activities. These two seasons offer picturesque landscapes and vibrant colours – ideal for photographers! 

As Vietnam is a long and narrow country, the weather can be unpredictable and highly depends on which part you visit, north or south, mountain or coast.

  • Summer (May-August) is the hottest season with intense sunshine. These months are usually the best for relaxing at the beach but not trekking, as the weather in Northern Vietnam is hot and humid with heavy rain.
  • Winter (December – February) is the coldest season with chilling winds, especially in the north and mountainous areas. There is also snow in some places, like Sapa. 
  • Spring (February – May) is the best time to see the flower season in Northern Vietnam. The temperatures rise slowly, and the sunshine is pleasant with clear, blue skies. Some areas can expect rainfall, but it is still great for hiking, with spring flowers in full bloom, making the region particularly beautiful.
  • Autumn (September – November) is the best month with pleasant weather to visit Northern Vietnam when colours gradually change, and the temperatures are lowering but still lovely, perfect for outdoor activities.

Packing tips: pack good walking shoes, light cotton clothes, an umbrella or light waterproof jacket. Plus, do not forget your filtered water bottle! 

Vietnam Backpacking Itinerary – Map

This Northern Vietnam backpacking travel itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You are more than welcome to spend more days in one destination or add other stops on your way. Vietnam has a lot to offer: you will never run out of ideas!

Route ALTERNATIVES:

  • Day 1/2 (1 night) – Hanoi
  • Day 2/4 (2 nights) – Sapa
  • Day 4/5 (1 night) – Bac Ha
  • Day 5/6 (1 night) – Lao Cai
  • Day 6/9 (3 nights) – Ha Giang
  • Day 9/11 (2 nights) – Cat Ba Island
  • Day 11/13 (2 nights) – Ninh Binh
  • Day 13/14 (1 night) – Hanoi
  • Day 1/2 (1 night) – Hanoi
  • Day 2/4 (2 nights) – Sapa
  • Day 4/7 (3 nights) – Ha Giang
  • Day 7/9 (2 nights) – Cat Ba Island
  • Day 9/11 (2 nights) – Ninh Binh
  • Day 11/13 (2 nights) – Hoi An
  • Day 13/14 (1 night) – Hanoi

Detailed Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary

Day 1/3 (2 nights) – Hanoi

Your Vietnam backpacking adventure begins with the vibrant city of Hanoi.

Hanoi is the bustling capital of Vietnam, a colourful city full of charm and history. It is the perfect way to discover the Vietnamese culture and taste delicious street food. 

For this North Vietnam itinerary, I recommend spending at least two nights in Hanoi to have the time to immerse yourself in the buzzing atmosphere of the city and get lost in its narrow streets.

With these few days, you will have plenty of opportunities to uncover the main attractions and highlights of the Vietnamese capital. 

Things to do & see in Hanoi

  • Explore the Old Quarter
  • Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake 
  • Cross the bridge to the Temple of the Jade Mountain
  • Dwell in Hanoi train street
  • Tour the National Museum of Vietnamese History
  • Wander the Temple of Literature
  • Try Hanoi local food (order a bowl of pho and a beer!)
  • Discover the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
  • Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

How to get around Hanoi

The easiest way to get around Hanoi is on foot. It will allow you to soak up the energetic atmosphere of the city. And if you love photography, it is an incredible way to wander and capture candids.

And if the place you want to reach is a bit far, I advise you to use a Grab (the equivalent of an Uber) or taxi.

I would not recommend renting and driving a motorbike to get around the capital, as the streets are insanely busy and there are no traffic rules.

My Hanoi experience

I did not have the chance to spend that much time in Hanoi, but it was not my favourite city. It was so hot and humid that it was hard to breathe, and the noise and smell were intense and hard to handle.

However, I still enjoyed wandering through its narrow streets, tasting local cuisine and doing some shopping.




Day 3/5 (2 nights) – Sapa

Bus options + schedule

Many buses travel daily from Hanoi to Sapa.
And you will have the choice between different types: vans, minibuses and sleepers. 

Travel time: 6 hours
Distance: 320 km

Check out Baolau for the timetable and prices. 
Or ask your hotel or guesthouse to book the bus for you.

Sapa is a remote town located in the northwestern mountains of Vietnam in the Muong Hoa Valley. This part of the country with distinct and unique culture is well-known for its lush rice terraces, scenic mountain views and local communities. 

And if you love spending time outdoors and exploring, Sapa is the place for you! The area offers plenty of trekking possibilities that will guide you through picturesque landscapes and ethnic villages.

For your backpacking trip in North Vietnam, I recommend spending two to three days in Sapa, as the region provides many things to do and see! 

Things to do & see in Sapa

  • Visit Cat Cat village
  • Go hiking or trekking
  • Ride the cable car to Fansipan
  • Hike to Love Waterfall
  • Walk to Silver Waterfall
  • Visit Sapa Museum
  • Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
  • Rent a motorbike & wander outside of Sapa
  • Discover Tram Ton Pass
  • Check out Muong Hoa Valley

How to get around Sapa 

Because Sapa is a small mountain town perfect for hiking and trekking, the easiest way to get around is on foot

Another to travel around is by using a motorbike. You can easily rent yours at the hotel or guesthouse where you are staying and start exploring the surroundings. However, be mindful as the roads are in bad conditions. This area is also often cloudy and foggy. So drive slowly! 

And if you are not sure about exploring on your own, feel free to hire a local guide. The locals will be happy to share their culture and beautiful region. You can hire a guide to hike through rice terraces on a day-trip and multi-day excursion or to show you around on a motorbike if you want to reach distant places. 

north vietnam itinerary

My Sapa experience

We took a very early morning bus from Hanoi to Sapa. It was a 6-hour journey, and the bus was very comfortable, but it was the only one like this on our entire trip – we did not know it yet!

On our way there, we could already see the scenery changing, becoming little green bumps – I was very excited. 

north vietnam itinerary

We arrived in Sapa early in the afternoon and went to our guesthouse to leave our bags. We then walked around to explore the town, and it was beautiful – I loved Sapa Lake and its reflection. 

The city was busy, but not as much as Hanoi. We could breathe easier.

Cat Cat Village

After walking around the Lake, we visited Cat Cat village (you can walk to it). You can find it at the bottom of the hill between rice terraces. 

The village was pretty, but it was a bit too touristy. Plus, the entrance was 70 000 VND. It was still a lovely first experience to discover the country and its culture. We wandered through the village and walked to the waterfall. 

north vietnam itinerary


north vietnam itinerary

We then used a moto taxi back into town and stopped on our way home at a nice bar. I can not remember the exact place, but it was lovely!


For our second day in Sapa, we rented a scooter from our guesthouse and went to explore the surroundings.

Love Waterfall

Renting a scooter was always very affordable, around 100,000 VND. We had to pay for our petrol, but as with most things, it was easy and cheap (60,000 VND full tank). My friend Kwelan sat behind me as she did not know how to drive, and we headed towards the Love Waterfall. The entrance was not free, but I can not remember the exact price. We did a small hike to reach it, and it was lovely. The waterfall was beautiful.



We then continued to Tan Van, but the roads were in terrible conditions, and the weather was very foggy. We went as far as we could, enjoyed the view of the rice terraces and returned to the guesthouse.

north vietnam itinerary

Day 5/8 (3 nights) – Ha Giang

Bus options + schedule

Few buses travel from Sapa to Ha Giang City daily. 

Travel time: 5 to 7 hours
Distance: 235 km

You can ask your hotel or guesthouse to book a local bus for you (cheaper but can be rough).
Or check out 12go.asia for a timetable and prices of express sleepers and minivans.

Ha Giang province is one of the most adventurous places in Vietnam and is known for being the start of the famous loop, going from steep mountain passes to quaint local villages.

The Ha Giang Loop is a circular route passing near the border with China. Is it there that you can travel through stunning and wild landscapes you will never forget.

This remote region offers an experience like no other, where the cultural diversity and beautiful landscapes remain pure and authentic. 

I travelled the loop in two days, which was short, but we did not have much time, and we still managed to see a lot (which was also very tiring). I recommend spending more days there, at least 3 or 4, and going at your own pace.

And if the loop is not on your bucket list, you can rent a motorbike and go for a day trip around Ha Giang City. The possibilities are endless! 

north vietnam itinerary

Things to do & see in Ha Giang

  • Visit Ha Giang City
  • Drive the Ha Giang loop
  • Discover Hoang Su Phi
  • Wander Ha Giang markets
  • Go trekking through valleys and villages
  • Reach Lung Cu flag tower
  • Explore the Lung Cam cultural village
  • Stroll through Hmongs King Palace
  • Conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass
  • Relax in Du Gia

Ha Giang Loop: 3-day itinerary example

First day:

  • Ha Giang
  • Quan Ba Pass
  • Tham Ma Pass
  • Hmongs King Palace
  • Dong Van

Second day:

  • Dong Van
  • Lung Cu Flag tower
  • Ma Pi Leng pass
  • Meo Vac

Third day:

  • Meo Van
  • Mau Due
  • Du Gia
  • Ha Giang

How to get around Ha Giang

The easiest way to get from one town to another in Ha Giang province is by motorbike. You can rent one or use a local guide to show you around. The roads are steep and narrow but generally in good condition. Just drive slowly. 

Another good way to travel around Ha Giang is by car with a driver. It will allow you to see unforgettable panoramas without the stress of driving. However, be sure to book in advance.

north vietnam itinerary

My Ha Giang experience

Since my friend Kwelan did not know how to drive a motorbike, we asked our guesthouse host Tom to guide us. He accepted. 

With his cousin, they drove us through the magical landscapes of North Vietnam.

Our first loop day

You can start the loop differently, but we started with the East, passing through Meo Vac, Ma Pi Long et Dong Van

We stopped several times to take pictures, and the scenery was breathtaking. The weather was also lovely, sunny and warm, and it was great to be with two locals, as they knew the area very well. They showed us hidden places and took us to local houses for lunch and sleep. 

north vietnam itinerary


north vietnam itinerary



north vietnam itinerary

Our second loop day

We continued our way to the West, this time passing through Yen Minh et Quan Ba. Once again, we had lunch at a local house. 

Most of the time, we had a bowl of rice and a buffet on the table, so we could put whatever we wanted on our rice – and it was always delicious!

north vietnam itinerary


north vietnam itinerary

We finished our tour by reaching Ha Giang and the guesthouse, where we spent the night. 

The loop was unforgettable! The landscapes were unique, with verdant mountains stretching as far as the horizon. Although it was a short tour, we both enjoyed it very much – it is something to do if you can, you will not regret it.

Day 8/10 (2 nights) – Cao Bang

Bus options + schedule

Only one bus travels from Ha Giang City to Cao Bang City daily.

Travel time: 10 hours (with one change in Bao Lam)
Distance: 240 km

You can ask your hotel or guesthouse to book the bus for you.
Departure should be around 6am, and arrival at 5pm.

Nestled in a remote area, Cao Bang is a mountainous province in northeastern Vietnam and is one of the most beautiful and peaceful regions.

With countless rivers and lakes, Cao Bang is protected as a UNESCO Global Geopark and offers extraordinary diversity, perfect for adventurous travellers who want to explore whilst seeking peace. Due to its remote location, Cao Bang province is ideal for getting away from the crowded and more visited tourist destinations and experiencing the rugged beauty of the border region.

And whilst the province is well-known for its Ban Gioc waterfall, one of the best things to do is to wander off-the-beaten tracks and discover unique, untouched wilderness.

As the journey to reach this area can be long and tiring, I recommend staying for two nights to have time to catch your breath after the loop and immerse yourself in nature.

Things to do & see in Ca Bang

  • Explore Cao Bang City
  • Admire Ban Gioc waterfall
  • Hike to Nguom Ngao Cave
  • Discover the hidden Phong Nam valley
  • Uncover the Nui Thung mountain
  • Marvel in front of Me Pja Pass
  • Walk around Thang Hen Lake
  • Visit local villages
  • Wander around Phia Oac National Park

How to get around Cao Bang

The easiest way to get around Cao Bang province is by motorbike. You can rent one at your hotel or guesthouse or use a local guide to show you around. Just drive slowly, as this part of Vietnam is foggy and wet.

Another good way to travel around Cao Bang is by car using a driver. It will allow you to discover the region with a local and move around comfortably.

My Cao Bang experience

Unfortunately, we did not have the chance to stop at Cao Bang. It was on our list, but our schedule was tied, and we wanted to experience Hoi An after Ninh Binh instead (proposed as one of the route alternatives). 

Day 10/12 (2 nights) – Cat Ba Island

Bus options + schedule

To reach Cat Ba island by bus from Cao Bang, you will need to book two buses.
One from Cao Bang to Hanoi, one from Hanoi to Cat Ba.
The journey is simple but lengthy.

Cao Bang – Hanoi
(only one sleeping bus daily)

Travel time: 9 hours
Distance: 282 km
Departure: 20:00
Arrival: 05:00

Hanoi – Cat Ba island
(many buses and ferries running daily)

Travel time: 3 to 4 hours
Distance: 150 km
Departure: from 07:30

You can ask your hotel or guesthouse to book the local buses for you.
Or check out Baolau for the timetable and prices. 

A small island off the northwest coast of Vietnam, Cat Ba is a hidden gem well worth a visit. Dominating the Gulf of Tonkin, it is the largest of the 367 islands that form the Cat Ba Archipelago.

For this Northern Vietnam backpacking itinerary, I recommend Cat Ba island instead of Ha Long Bay simply because the island is more budget-friendly and less crowded/touristy. Between the vast jungle of Cat Ba National Park, the stunning sandy beaches and plenty of outdoor activities, there are many things to do and see there, so I would suggest staying for two nights.

Cat Ba will also propose a lovely change of scenery and will allow you to relax by the sea after a few days of mountain exploration.

Things to do & see in Cat Ba

  • Explore Cat Ba National Park 
  • Relax at the beach
  • Cruise along Lan Ha Bay (Ha Long Bay alternative)
  • Hike Ngu Lam Peak for stunning views
  • Visit the Hospital Cave
  • Bike ride around Viet Hai Village
  • Visit Cai Beo floating village
  • Admire the sunset at Cannon Fort
  • See langurs on Monkey Island
  • Enjoy Cat Ba nightlife

How to get around Cat Ba island

The first way to get around Cat Ba island is on foot. The island offers many hiking trails and scenic coastal views, perfect for slow exploration. 

The second way to travel around Ca ba is by bike or motorbike. Again, you can rent one from your hotel and guesthouse and go for a wander. 

My Cat Ba experience

We reached Cat Ba Island from Hanoi by bus and ferry, and I was very excited, as Cat Ba was where we were cruising along a part of Halong Bay. 

To book the cruise, we went to an agency on the island: there are many, so compare and choose the one you prefer. You can also do the cruise from Halong City, but we selected Cat Ba as it was a bit less touristy. I also loved this island, its atmosphere and its landscapes. It was totally unique.

We spent the afternoon at the beach, which was an unusual experience. Because we were the only ones in ‘bikinis’, and most Vietnamese girls were only staying on the beach, we got lots of stares when going into the water. And as we did not want to disturb anyone, we went for a walk around the island, which was incredible.

Unfortunately, the boat cruise we had booked along Lan Ha Bay was cancelled due to a storm. The agency refunded us, and we decided to continue our journey to Ninh Binh.

Day 12/13 (2 nights) – Ninh Binh 

Bus options + schedule

Few buses and ferries travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh. 

Travel time: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 190 km

You can ask your hotel or guesthouse to book the bus for you (might be cheaper).
Or check out 12go.asia for a timetable and prices of minivans.
You can also look at Cat Ba Express (one daily bus departing at 8:00).

Ninh Binh is a town (and district) which lies southeast of Hanoi and is a perfect base for adventurers and nature lovers to explore the area, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Ninh Binh town is ideal for discovering Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu, and although it is not as well-known as other places in Vietnam, it is an excellent place for anyone interested in nature and outdoor activities. 

For this backpacking itinerary in North Vietnam, I suggest you stay in the Ninh Binh region for two nights, as there is plenty to do and see! The best way to experience this UNESCO-protected site is by taking a boat tour on its glistening rivers and climbing to the top of its legendary peaks.

north vietnam itinerary

Things to do & see in Ninh Binh

  • Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
  • Go on a Trang An boat ride
  • Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
  • Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
  • Go on a bike tour around the countryside
  • Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
  • Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
  • Wander the Bai Dinh Pagoda
  • Discover Tam Coc

How to get around Ninh Binh

The best to get around Ninh Binh and move freely is by motorbike. You can rent one at your hotel or guesthouse or use a local guide to show you around.

Cycling is another good way to travel around Ninh Binh. It will allow you to discover the region from a unique perspective and immerse yourself in the Vietnamese landscapes. 

north vietnam itinerary

My Ninh Binh experience

We took a bus, a ferry and another bus for 5 hours from Cat Ba island to Ninh Binh. We arrived at Tam Coc Homestay in Ninh Binh at the end of the day, and that was, without a doubt, our favourite homestay. The surroundings were incredible – lost in the middle of rice terraces, adorable owners and a beautiful pool.



We rented a scooter to explore the surroundings. We first went to Trang An for an early morning cruise (so it was not too busy). There are other rivers for boat cruises in this area, the most famous one is Tam Coc, but we wanted something a bit less touristy, so we chose Trang An. The price was 200 000 VND. We could be up to four on the boat (so you will never be alone), and a local guided us through the river and the caves. The scenery was stunning, something I had never seen before. It was a 3-hour cruise, and we stopped at a few temples along the way and passed through 9 caves – all impressive, but watch your head!

north vietnam itinerary


north vietnam itinerary


We were supposed to leave early but decided to stay a bit longer to explore the area more. We rented a scooter again and went to Hang Mua mountain to enjoy an incredible panorama of Tam Coc and the rice terraces. The way up was quite hard, as there were 500 steps, but the view was worth it! 

north vietnam itinerary

Day 13/14 (1 night) – Hanoi

Bus options + schedule

Many buses travel daily from Ninh Binh to Hanoi.

Travel time: 2 hours
Distance: 94 km

You can ask your hotel or guesthouse to book the bus for you.
Or check out Baolau for the timetable and prices. 

Your last day in Vietnam! 

Spend this time strolling around Hanoi, enjoying a beer or bringing home handmade souvenirs. 

I hope you had a great time discovering Northern Vietnam. Let me know in the comments what was your favourite part or if you have other suggestions. 

north vietnam itinerary

Vietnam was a wonderful country, with such a beautiful culture and full of lovely people. We always felt safe and had no problems travelling. The scenery was breathtaking, and the way of living was different from what I was used to, but it felt so good to discover something new. I came home with a warm heart and a head full of memories.

Sustainable travel in Vietnam

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Respectfully visiting these places is essential to their conservation through responsible tourism conducted in a way that gives back to the land and culture.  

Here are some sustainable travel tips for reducing your impact when backpacking in Northern Vietnam: 

eco-TIPS

  • Book direct flights and offset your carbon footprint. BUT, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your backpack to be ready for your green adventure. For example, take a filtered water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • Engage in tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife. Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more rooted in money than traditional culture! Choose an operator with a responsible tourism policy. And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. 
  • If snorkelling or diving, be sure to choose a responsible operator. Never touch or step on coral, and wear reef-safe sunscreen!
  • Hire a local guide if possible. You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.
  • Shop local. Buy crafts at local markets and ask questions about the product and its origins. Never purchase items from endangered species.
  • Eat in local restaurants, and tip your guides, hotel and restaurant staff. It may be small for you but can significantly impact their income.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.
  • Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words!

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

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Vietnam FAQ

How long to spend in Northern Vietnam? 

I suggest spending at least 14 days in Northern Vietnam and 2 nights at each destination. It will allow plenty of time to travel and see the main attractions and highlights at each stop without rushing.

When is the best time to visit Northern Vietnam?

The best time to visit Northern Vietnam is in spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and the colours are vibrant, perfect for outdoor activities.

north vietnam itinerary

And you, have you ever visited Vietnam or would you like to go one day? 
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie