Hanoi
24.8°C ~ 77°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Mountains, rice terraces and limestone bays, a few hours apart.
North Vietnam is the region around Hanoi, from the limestone bays of Ha Long and Ninh Binh to the mountains of Sapa and Ha Giang. The best seasons are September to November and March to May. Plan 7 to 10 days and about $30 to $70 per person per day. Most trips start at Noi Bai Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.
Temperature and rain in October.
24.8°C ~ 77°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
25°C ~ 77°F
11 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
24.8°C ~ 77°F
15 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
17.2°C ~ 63°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
24.4°C ~ 76°F
15 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
25.6°C ~ 78°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
23.4°C ~ 74°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
23.9°C ~ 75°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
20.5°C ~ 69°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
19.7°C ~ 67°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Most popular with travellers first.
Hand-picked things to do.


Day-by-day routes you can copy and adjust.



Guides, weather and tips.








Absolutely. Northern Vietnam combines historic cities, dramatic limestone landscapes, mountain scenery, rice terraces, and some of the country's best food. It is especially appealing if you want a mix of nature, culture, and local experiences.
Allow at least 5–7 days for a good introduction to the region. With 10–14 days, you can combine Hanoi with destinations such as Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, or Ha Giang without rushing.
The most popular destinations include Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Ha Giang. Cat Ba and Mai Chau are also good options depending on whether you prefer beaches, nature, culture, or outdoor activities.
Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for traveling around the north. Mountain destinations such as Sapa and Ha Giang have their own seasonal highlights, so the best time depends on what you want to see and do.
You can travel between major destinations by bus, train, private car, or domestic flight, depending on the route. For places such as Ha Giang and Sapa, buses and shuttle vans are common, while trains are particularly useful between Hanoi and Lao Cai or Ninh Binh.
Yes. You can easily travel between the main destinations by bus, train, taxi, private car, or organized tour. A motorbike is useful for exploring places such as Ha Giang, but it is not necessary for the whole region.
Last updated October 2026. Sources include the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Vietnam Airlines travel guides and the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel). Prices and timetables change, so confirm them before you book.