The Only 7-Day Northern Vietnam Itinerary You Need
A week-long route that starts in Hanoi, adds Ninh Binh for karst scenery, and finishes with Ha Long Bay—built for first-timers and minimal stress.
This is the Northern Vietnam route that actually works in real life: short transfers, clear pacing, and enough flexibility to handle weather, crowds, and the Lunar New Year period without stress.
Who this trip is for
First-time Vietnam visitors
Food-forward travelers
People who want scenery without overland suffering
Travelers who prefer a “base + side trips” structure
Who this trip is NOT for
People chasing beach time
Those who hate fog/mist or cooler winter weather
Anyone who wants to change hotels every night
Timing note (important)
Vietnam celebrates Lunar New Year (Tết). And Chinese New Year in 2026 is Feb 17, which strongly affects China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and South Korea—and the region’s travel flows. Around mid-February you may see:
Higher travel demand and price spikes
Some family-run businesses closing briefly
Different city “rhythm” (quieter daytime, busier family venues)
This itinerary is built so you can still eat well and move smoothly even if certain spots close.
Extra-Detailed 7-Day Plan
Day 1 — Hanoi Landing Day (Old Quarter + First Food Loop)
Goal: arrive smoothly, eat immediately, sleep early.
Morning / Afternoon
Arrive and check in (stay central for walkability).
Do a low-effort orientation loop: lake walk + a couple side streets.
Buy essentials: cash, water, tissues, basic meds (optional).
Food plan
Make your first meal something warm and simple (broth-based is perfect in February).
Add one snack stop later to learn the “street stool rhythm.”
Evening
Keep it gentle: one atmospheric street, one dessert, then bed.
Avoid late-night bar hopping today—jet lag and traffic fatigue compound fast.
Backup if tired: do nothing except one meal + sleep. That’s still a win.
