17 best tours from Hanoi + map

Updated: January 30, 2024

The best excursions from Hanoi, with the essential ones if it is your first trip and other little-known ones, with transportation options.

The north of Vietnam is one of the most beautiful areas of the country to enjoy its lush nature of mountains, rice fields and dream bays.

In this article you have a compilation of all the best excursions from Hanoi, many you can do in 1 day, others you will need to dedicate more time to.

In addition, you have some that are essential and others will be good for you if you already know the north of Vietnam or prefer Visit places less traveled by tourists that are more authentic.

17 Best Tours from Hanoi

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is the most beautiful place to see near Hanoi and all of Vietnam, declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World since 2011.

It is a large bay full of islands and islets with calcareous pillars that give it its characteristic appearance and a place that you cannot miss visiting.

– How to visit Ha Long Bay?

To visit, it is best to go to some of the ports from where the ships leave and from there take a cruise around the bay.

One of the places to go out is Cat Ba Island.

To go to Cat Ba from Hanoi the bus and ferry combination costs 10 euros and takes 3:30 hours, here you can See schedules and book tickets.

Once there, I recommend taking this cruise 2-day Ha Long Bay, because the bay is huge and will give you time to get to know and enjoy this place. nature's wonder.

– Other alternatives

If you have just the time, I recommend this other one cruise from Hanoi which is a 1 day tour and if you want to see the bay from a different perspective this flight over Ha Long by seaplane.

• Distance from Hanoi: 172 km

2. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh region It is the most visited place around Hanoi after Ha Long Bay because it is an essential visit area.

Ninh Binh could be said to have it all. A place to take a boat tour of the meandering Ngo Dong River, going by green rice fields and majestic limestone mountains similar to those in the bay, which is why it is known as “land-based Ha Long Bay.”

The boat trip includes a visit to Tam Coc, which literally means "3 caves." These natural caves with stalactites have a height of about 2 meters above the water level and are one of the greatest attractions.

Other places worth visiting are Mua cave to have bird's eye views of the area and Hoa Lu, which was one of the ancient capitals of Vietnam.

– How to visit Ninh Binh from Hanoi?

To visit Ninh Binh with one day you will have enough and you can do it in Public transport to the town of Tam Coc, buses from Hanoi They take between 1:30 and 2:30, with prices starting at 5 euros, there you can see availability and book.

Once there, to To get around you will need to rent a motorcycle or take a taxi, in addition to the boat.

If not, the most practical way is to go with an excursion from Hanoi, such as this is the link which is the one I did, which includes the Mua cave, which for me is very worth it.

• Distance from Hanoi: 94 km

👍 Friend's tip: If you like hiking, I recommend spending a night in the area, there are very nice and very cheap accommodations like these beautiful bamboo bungalows from Trang An Lamia. In the area you will find a lot of hiking trails, on Wikiloc there are 112, most are easy.

3. Scented Pagoda

One of the The most interesting things to do near Hanoi is a visit to the Perfumed Pagoda or Chùa Hương that you will need only 1 day.

It's about a Buddhist complex and an important pilgrimage center that its first temple was built in the 15th century.

According to Buddhist belief, this place was Buddha's last stop, where he washed his face, so The faithful wash their hands and faces in search of cleansing their karma.

In addition, in this place they have a curious festival that changes dates every year, because the Buddhist calendar is lunar. In it festival of the Perfumed Pagoda, young people go in search of a partner in order to get married.

During the visit you will be able to enjoy the view of the surrounding area, because the pagoda is at the top of the mountain.

– How to visit the Perfumed Pagoda?

To visit you can go by taxi, drive or with this excursion which includes the pilgrimage tour, by boat and then to the Perfume Pagoda, with lunch included.

• Distance from Hanoi: 58 km

4. Sapa

Sapa is one of the most spectacular mountainous regions in Vietnam, which is above 2,000 meters high. with trails between terraced rice fields that pass through tribal villages.

This visit is well worth it do some trekking and get to know the fascinating local culture, because the routes are made with local ethnic people.

One of the most interesting places is to go up to the Phang Xi Pang mountain which is next to Sapa and from its peak of more than 3,100 meters you will have wonderful views of the area.

Although Sapa receives a lot of tourists and sometimes it is difficult to know how to differentiate what is authentic from what is designed for foreigners, It is still a very beautiful experience, especially for its unique natural environment.

– How to visit Sapa from Hanoi?

To go to Sapa you have the option of public transport, there are buses and trains, both day and night that take between 6 and 9 hours.

If you decide on buses, I recommend the VIPs, which are a little more expensive, but much more comfortable, They cost from 15 euros. Here you can See schedules, prices and book.

If not, you have the alternative of trains with prices from 25 euros, I recommend you choose the trains Laman Express or Violette Express, both train companies are fine.

In this link you can see all train options, with their schedules and book.

Once you get there I recommend this tour to make a easy walk and get to know the area.

Although, if you don't want to get complicated and want to save money, this Sapa tour from Hanoi 2 days is the best alternative, with accommodation in a local village, meals, guides and transportation from Hanoi.

• Distance from Hanoi: 311 km

👍 My two cents: If you are going to visit Sapa, take a coat, At night the temperatures drop quite a bit, the coldest months go from December to February can reach 10 degrees. To give you an idea, below you can see the average maximum and minimum annual temperatures.

5. Lan Ha Bay

This is an excursion near Hanoi, ideal for escape from crowded areas, relax and enjoy an environment of great beauty very similar to Ha Long Bay.

Also, if you are looking to save, this Ha Long alternative is a little cheaper.

The big difference is the size, Lan Ha It is smaller and has about 400 islets.

In addition, in the bay there are some small sandy beaches where you can take a leisurely dip, a real joy. 😍

– How to visit Lan Ha Bay?

Main Boat departure docks to visit Lan Ha are on Cat Ba Island. That is, from the same place that many excursions to Ha Long leave, here you can see the combined bus and ferry ticket schedules from Hanoi to Cat Ba and book.

Then, from there, I recommend this 1 day cruise which is very economical, includes the kayak ride and lunch.

• Distance from Hanoi: 130 km

6. Mai Chau Valley

Mai Chau is a region full of valleys with rice fields, waterfalls, mountains where you can see water buffaloes and learn about life in the villages of different ethnic groups.

This area is an excellent alternative to Sapa, more authentic and less touristy. In addition, it is much closer to Hanoi and you can visit it on a 1-day trip.

This area can be divided into two, the low area and the mountainous area, in the latter there are beautiful trekking routes.

– How to visit Mai Chau from Hanoi?

To go to Mai Chau you can do it by public transport and then get around by motorcycle.

Although I recommend this one excursion from Hanoi, which you go with a guide and includes lunch, transportation that goes through the panoramic Thung Khe mountain pass and bike rides in the area.

• Distance from Hanoi: 135 km

7. Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Pu Luong is an area with interesting mountain peaks, winding rivers, waterfalls, terraced rice fields and local ethnic towns.

This is another alternative to Sapa even less known than Mai Chau from the previous point, which is the perfect place if you are looking for a quiet place where you can enjoy nature and go hiking or trekking.

– How to visit Pu Luong?

Although Pu Luong is close to Hanoi, it is an area that It is well worth spending at least one night there. to be able to take a walk and explore the area.

To get there you can go by public transport or do this trekking tour from Hanoi for 2 days, which includes a medium-level trek with impressive views on the first day and an easy one the next day.

In addition, you have transportation, accommodation and meals included.

• Distance from Hanoi: 144 km

8. Ba Vi National Park

Ba Vi National Park is an ideal place if you are a nature lover and want to spend the day away from the busy city of Hanoi.

This is a large area of Lush tropical jungle, with several mountain peaks between 800 and 1,200 meters high, where you can do undemanding hiking trails (easy and medium level).

Some of the highlights of the park are its caves, waterfalls, a cactus garden and a small abandoned French church in the middle of the forest, a memory of the colonial past.

👍 Friend's tip: in Ba Vi there are several farms with dairy cows. If you like dairy products, be sure to try those sold at stalls such as: fresh milk, yogurt, milk rusks, milk chocolate and others, are of very good quality and are finger-licking good. 😋

– How to visit Ba Vi National Park from Hanoi?

To go to Ba Vi I do not recommend driving, The road is dangerous because it is steep and has sharp curvesIn addition, when it is cold there is fog that reduces visibility.

So, as an alternative, you can go on bus from Hanoi to Xuân Khanh that takes 3 hours and from there a taxi to the park.

As far as I know, there is no bus that will take you to the park itself and I don't know how easy it will be to find a taxi in town because in the end I didn't try this option.

What I did is go with this private transfer With people I met there, that is the most practical and popular alternative.

• Distance from Hanoi: 62 km

9. Ban Gioc Falls

Ban Gioc Falls are one of the most spectacular in the world for its beautiful double fall and one of the essentials of northern Vietnam.

These falls are right on the border with China, in fact it is shared by both countries and you will need to spend at least one night there to make it worth traveling to the area.

Likewise, there is plenty to do in the area, such as walk along its paths, visit the rice fields or marvel at the mountain pillars which includes the famous Nui Thung, known as «the mountain of the Divine Eye», because of the very unique hole.

Keep in mind that from June to January is when the waterfall has enough water to make it look beautiful and The best months are from September to December.

– How to visit Ban Gioc Falls?

To get to the falls you can go with a bus that takes between 5:30 and 9 hours, depending on which one you choose and there are day and night buses.

If you go with the night bus, I recommend the VIP bus that is much more comfortable. In this link you can see the Bus schedules, prices and making reservations without traveling to the station.

The other option is to go with this excursion from Hanoi 2 days with a guide to explore the area and you have everything included, that is, transportation, accommodation and meals.

• Distance from Hanoi: 333 km

10. Ba Be Lake and National Park

Ba Be Lake is in the national park of the same name and is one of the largest unknown by mass tourism.

Your visit is ideal to enjoy the tranquility in an area with beautiful landscapes of rice fields and ethnic minority villages.

Here you can take advantage of hiking or cycling.

As far as the lake is concerned, it offers a very picturesque landscape with mountains in the background and endless activities, one of the most attractive is explore its caves by kayak.

The most impressive cave is Puong 300 meters long and 30 meters high.

– How to visit Ba Be Lake from Hanoi and where to stay?

Since Ba Be Lake is a less touristy place, there are not too many tours that go there.

So, the best alternative is to go with this minibus which runs from Hanoi to the lake, has 3 daily departures and takes 5 hours.

To spend the night there I recommend these Ba Be jungle houses, which are the best accommodation in the area, they have a lot of charm, are comfortable and very cheap.

• Distance from Hanoi: 230 km

11. Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island is the largest in the Cat Ba archipelago, is in Lan Ha Bay, next to Ha Long Bay and is where the cruises leave from, but it is also a good place to spend a quiet day and discover its corners.

Half of the island is covered in jungles that belong to the National Park, which is UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, there you can do some interesting hiking routes.

Please note that in Vietnam it is important not to go off the trails, because in the jungles and forests There are still many unexploded mines from the Vietnam War.

At the same time you can enjoy its beaches, caves, go kayaking or visit the floating village of Cai Beo.

Another of the most peculiar visits to the island, if you are interested in history, is to Cueva Hospital, which was used during the war.

– How to visit Cat Ba Island and where to stay?

One of the advantages of Cat Ba is that you can easily reachable by public transport.

Here you can see schedules and book The combined bus and ferry ticket from Hanoi costs 10 euros and the entire journey takes 3:30 hours.

On the island there are Cat Ba Paradise which has comfortable rooms, a beautiful pool, incredible views from the sky bar and a very good price.

• Distance from Hanoi: 124 km

12. Ha Giang Circuit

If you are looking for a more adventurous and fun experience, I recommend doing the Ha Giang Loop to see some truly spectacular landscapes like the Ma Pi Leng Pass from the photo below.

This is one of the most famous motorcycle circuits in the world, the good news is that you don't need to be an expert on motorcycles and the route is not difficult either.

– How to do the Ha Giang circuit?

To make the circuit, I recommend doing it with these people who are experts and the 3 days and 2 nights tour includes everything, from the guide, the motorcycles that are in perfect condition, accommodation and meals.

Also, for everything it includes it is very good, It costs less than 70 euros a day.

The truth is that it is an unforgettable experience that will be good for you if you have a few extra days or want do something more authentic.

• Distance from Hanoi: 280 km

13. Tam Chuc Pagodas

Tam Chuc is a Pagoda complex with wonderful architecture in a stunning natural environment.

This is one of the most unknown visits from Hanoi to tourists, interesting and close.

To get there you can take the train from Hanoi that It takes 1 hour and costs about 4 euros, here you can See schedules and make reservations.

• Distance from Hanoi: 62 km

14. Do Son Beach

Do Son is the most beautiful beach in northern Vietnam, with white sand and crystal clear water, although depending on the season the water can be more turbulent and a little brown.

This beach is near Hai Phong city, there you can swim, relax and enjoy local cuisine based on fresh seafood.

👍 My two cents: if you are looking for peace of mind avoid going during the weekend, because this beach is very popular with locals and can be packed.

To get there by public transport you will have to go by bus or train to Hai Phong, here you can see all the alternatives, with prices and book.

• Distance from Hanoi: 126 km

15. Mu Cang Chai

Mu Cang Chai is a perfect place if you are a nature lover and want to see amazing terraced rice fieldsFor me they are the most beautiful.

This alternative is a little closer than Sapa, but since it is not very touristy there is not as much transportation.

The buses take 7 hours, here you can see the schedules and buy the ticket. Then once there you can go trekking with the local people to get to know the area, such as this full day.

• Distance from Hanoi: 294 km

16. Duong Lam Ancient Village

Duong Lam is an ancient Vietnamese town recognized by UNESCO for its exceptional state of conservation. Therefore, it is considered a National Historical and Cultural Relic.

Some of the traditional architectural homes, temples and pagodas that you can see They are more than 400 years old. Some of the most notable examples are the Mai pagoda which is one of the oldest temples in Vietnam and the gate of Mong Phu village from the photo below.

To get there by public transport you will need to go to the city of Son Tay by bus and then from there by taxi or motorcycle to the old village.

If you can't join one of the day trips from Hanoi, such as this is the link with guide, transportation, lunch and bike ride.

• Distance from Hanoi: 56 km

17. Bat Trang Pottery Village

The town of Bat Trang on the outskirts of Hanoi is famous for its ceramics and a must visit if you like crafts. The best in the country is produced there, something that goes back to the times of the Lee dynasty in the 15th century.

On this visit you can see and buy pieces of ceramic crafts with beautiful designs, although the most interesting thing is to see the artisans at work.

You can too do a workshop where they explain the details of its production and you can make your own ceramics, as this one from the link which includes a visit to the town and transportation from Hanoi.

If not, you can also easily get there by public transportation with buses.

Another alternative is this fun motorcycle tour through the towns on the banks of the Red River, including a visit to Bat Trang and food.

• Distance from Hanoi: 16 km

What are the essentials near Hanoi?

If you have a few days to visit the surroundings of Hanoi, I recommend see Ha Long Bay (1), if you can, spend 2 days there and then Ninh Binh (2) 1 day will be enough to see the best of the area.

If you have more days, you can add a visit to an area of terraced rice fields, If you can go to Sapa (4) which is the most diverse. If not, the alternative areas of Sapa that I talk about in the article are also worth it:

• Mai Chau (6) for a peaceful experience
• Pu Luong (7) for trekking
• Mu Cang Chai (15) to see the most beautiful rice fields

If you have visited these areas before, my favorite places that are still on the list are, first, the Ban Gioc waterfalls (9) one of the most beautiful places I visited. Then, Ha Giang Circuit (12) If you are into adventures, you will need between 2 and 3 days for both, but they are worth it. 😉

Map of visits from Hanoi

* To check the legend for each place, click the button in the top left corner of the map. To view this map on your phone or computer, tap the star on the right side of the title. Then go to Google Maps, select "Your Places" and "Maps" from the menu.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

These are the best excursions from Hanoi, so you can enjoy culturally fascinating sites and unique beauty.

In case you are organizing your trip to Vietnam on your own, you can read all the articles I have written in this Vietnam Travel Guide.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and if you found the article useful, share it with other fellow travelers. 😘

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