











$1185
2 Weeks North & Central Vietnam in Slow Pace
Overview
This 2 week Vietnam tour is the perfect blend of scenic landscapes, rich culture, and relaxing experiences. From wandering the bustling food streets of Hanoi to cruising through the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, and from trekking in peaceful Pu Luong to cycling the countryside around Hoi An - every day brings something new. With a carefully planned itinerary, 24/7 local support via WhatsApp, and authentic local experiences, this exclusive tour offers comfort and discovery at a relaxed pace. It's perfect for travelers seeking a slower journey with a touch of adventure along the way.
Highlights
- Taste your way through Hanoi with a guided street food tour, including famous egg coffee
- Explore Pu Luong’s rice terraces, waterfalls, and peaceful hill tribe villages
- Enjoy a 2-night luxury cruise through Lan Ha Bay with kayaking, swimming, and sunset cocktails
- Discover the hidden charm of Ninh Binh by bike, ride past limestone peaks and ancient temples
- Cycle the quiet backroads and coconut groves of Hoi An’s countryside with an optional basket boat ride
- Includes free Vietnamese SIM card, airport transfers, and 24/7 support via WhatsApp
Tour Video Preview
The video offers an overall idea of the trip, though details may vary by season or your personalized itinerary.
Route
- Day 1: Hanoi
- Day 2: Hanoi
- Day 3: Pu Luong
- Day 4: Pu Luong
- Day 5: Pu Luong – Ninh Binh
- Day 6: Ninh Binh
- Day 7: Ninh Binh
- Day 8: Lan Ha Bay
- Day 9: Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Island
- Day 10: Cat Ba Island – Hoi An
- Day 11: Hoi An
- Day 12: Hoi An
- Day 13: Hoi An
- Day 14: Hoi An – Hanoi
Price & Availability
- Enquiries about the tour
- Customization Request
- Questions about booking
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Customizable & Private
Your own itinerary, your own pace — a fully private package that you can customize completely based on your wishes.
Stress-Free, Fully Supported
Door-to-door travel, a free SIM for constant internet, and a dedicated Vietnam expert on WhatsApp whenever you need us.
Local Experts, Authentic Travel
Based in Vietnam with deep local knowledge, we deliver real experiences and handle everything quickly and directly.
Itinerary
After landing at Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport, a private driver will be waiting to bring you to your hotel in the city center. In the evening, dive straight into Vietnam’s culinary culture with a guided street food tour through the Old Quarter. You’ll walk past bustling markets, hidden alleys, and lively corners of Train Street, tasting local favorites like bún chả, bánh cuốn, and egg coffee. It’s a flavorful introduction to life in northern Vietnam.
Hanoi Esplendor Hotel
Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with easy access to top attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street, and the night market. Rooms are clean, quiet, and well-equipped, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the city. A daily breakfast is served in a pleasant rooftop setting, and a range of dining and street food options are just steps away.
Enjoy a full day to explore Vietnam’s lively capital at your own pace. You might stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the Temple of Literature, or enjoy a quiet coffee on Train Street.
Hanoi Esplendor Hotel
Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with easy access to top attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street, and the night market. Rooms are clean, quiet, and well-equipped, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the city. A daily breakfast is served in a pleasant rooftop setting, and a range of dining and street food options are just steps away.
Leave the city behind and head towards the peaceful mountains of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. After a scenic 4-hour journey through rural landscapes, you’ll arrive at your eco-lodge surrounded by rice fields and limestone hills. The rest of the day is yours to relax and take in the fresh mountain air.
Pu Luong Eco Garden
This is a mountainside retreat surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. The resort features spacious, tastefully designed villas with private balconies, luxurious bathrooms, and tranquil outdoor spaces. You can enjoy a scenic infinity pool, a restaurant with sweeping terrace views, and easy access to local hiking trails and natural attractions.
Start the day with a visit to Hieu Waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. Next, hop on a bamboo raft to drift along the calm Cham River. In the afternoon, take a light trek through one of Pu Luong’s most beautiful valleys. Pass through terraced rice fields and remote ethnic villages like Uoi and Leo, where you may get a glimpse of traditional brocade weaving.
Pu Luong Eco Garden
This is a mountainside retreat surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. The resort features spacious, tastefully designed villas with private balconies, luxurious bathrooms, and tranquil outdoor spaces. You can enjoy a scenic infinity pool, a restaurant with sweeping terrace views, and easy access to local hiking trails and natural attractions.
Spend the morning relaxing at your lodge before your private transfer takes you to Ninh Binh. Often called "the Halong Bay on land", this region is known for its dramatic karst mountains and ancient temples. Check into your homestay or resort for a peaceful evening.
Lalita Tam Coc Resort & Spa
Tucked into the peaceful landscape of Tam Coc, Lalita Resort & Spa blends scenic beauty with comfort and convenience. Spacious rooms, a serene pool with panoramic views, and complimentary bikes invite guests to unwind or explore at their own pace. With thoughtful service and a prime location near key attractions, it’s an ideal retreat for those visiting Ninh Binh.
Enjoy the freedom to explore Ninh Binh on your own. Free bicycles are available at your hotel, making it easy to ride through lush rice paddies and nearby attractions. Suggested spots include Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, or simply enjoy a peaceful riverside coffee.
Lalita Tam Coc Resort & Spa
Tucked into the peaceful landscape of Tam Coc, Lalita Resort & Spa blends scenic beauty with comfort and convenience. Spacious rooms, a serene pool with panoramic views, and complimentary bikes invite guests to unwind or explore at their own pace. With thoughtful service and a prime location near key attractions, it’s an ideal retreat for those visiting Ninh Binh.
Another free day to relax or explore Ninh Binh. Optional: Join a guided group tour to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave. Visit the ancient capital, take a scenic boat ride through karst tunnels, and climb up to Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views.
Lalita Tam Coc Resort & Spa
Tucked into the peaceful landscape of Tam Coc, Lalita Resort & Spa blends scenic beauty with comfort and convenience. Spacious rooms, a serene pool with panoramic views, and complimentary bikes invite guests to unwind or explore at their own pace. With thoughtful service and a prime location near key attractions, it’s an ideal retreat for those visiting Ninh Binh.
An early start takes you to Halong Bay, where you'll board a luxury cruise ship to explore the quieter and stunning Lan Ha Bay. After a delicious seafood lunch on board, enjoy kayaking in Tra Bau or relax in the jacuzzi. End the day with a sunset cooking class and a romantic dinner on deck.
Cozy Boutique Cruise
Embark on a tranquil and unforgettable overnight cruise through the stunning Lan Ha Bay, where you’ll experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With spacious, well-appointed rooms offering breathtaking views of the bay, the cruise provides an intimate and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. Enjoy a variety of activities including kayaking through karst caves, a cooking class, squid fishing, tai chi at sunrise, and cycling through lush landscapes, all while being treated to delicious, freshly prepared meals by a welcoming and attentive crew.
Join a day excursion to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island. Cycle or ride through lush forest paths and learn about local life in this isolated community. After lunch, kayak in hidden lagoons and swim in the clear waters before heading back to your cruise for another peaceful night on the bay.
Cozy Boutique Cruise
Embark on a tranquil and unforgettable overnight cruise through the stunning Lan Ha Bay, where you’ll experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With spacious, well-appointed rooms offering breathtaking views of the bay, the cruise provides an intimate and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. Enjoy a variety of activities including kayaking through karst caves, a cooking class, squid fishing, tai chi at sunrise, and cycling through lush landscapes, all while being treated to delicious, freshly prepared meals by a welcoming and attentive crew.
Begin your day with a Tai Chi session and breakfast. Explore Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island before cruising back to the mainland. A shuttle takes you to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Danang. Upon arrival, a private transfer brings you to your hotel in the charming town of Hoi An.
Hoi An Central Hotel
The hotel offers a peaceful retreat just steps away from the vibrant Old Town and local markets, striking the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. It features spacious, tastefully designed rooms that blend modern comfort with subtle local charm, complemented by thoughtful amenities including a pool and complimentary bike rentals. With its lush garden setting, inviting ambiance, and attention to detail throughout, the hotel creates an ideal base for discovering the cultural heart of Hoi An.
Spend your day wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town. Browse local tailor shops, visit the Japanese Bridge, or relax at a riverside café.
Hoi An Central Hotel
The hotel offers a peaceful retreat just steps away from the vibrant Old Town and local markets, striking the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. It features spacious, tastefully designed rooms that blend modern comfort with subtle local charm, complemented by thoughtful amenities including a pool and complimentary bike rentals. With its lush garden setting, inviting ambiance, and attention to detail throughout, the hotel creates an ideal base for discovering the cultural heart of Hoi An.
This morning, cycle through quiet villages, rice paddies, and riverside paths around Hoi An. Visit boat builders and duck farms, and take a relaxing boat ride to Cam Thanh Village. Optional: Try rowing a traditional round basket boat through the water coconut groves.
Hoi An Central Hotel
The hotel offers a peaceful retreat just steps away from the vibrant Old Town and local markets, striking the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. It features spacious, tastefully designed rooms that blend modern comfort with subtle local charm, complemented by thoughtful amenities including a pool and complimentary bike rentals. With its lush garden setting, inviting ambiance, and attention to detail throughout, the hotel creates an ideal base for discovering the cultural heart of Hoi An.
Enjoy your last full day at leisure. Lounge on An Bang Beach, shop for souvenirs, or take a short trip to the My Son temple ruins.
Hoi An Central Hotel
The hotel offers a peaceful retreat just steps away from the vibrant Old Town and local markets, striking the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. It features spacious, tastefully designed rooms that blend modern comfort with subtle local charm, complemented by thoughtful amenities including a pool and complimentary bike rentals. With its lush garden setting, inviting ambiance, and attention to detail throughout, the hotel creates an ideal base for discovering the cultural heart of Hoi An.
Your driver will transfer you to Danang airport in time for your Vietnam Airlines flight to Hanoi, where you'll connect with your international departure. Farewell Vietnam and see you next time!
Tip: Customize this tour
Use this itinerary as a template — more or less days, add or remove destinations, adjust activities, or change hotels to match your travel style.
Included / Excluded
- 13 nights' accommodation as described in the itinerary
- Private airport transfers and all domestic ground transportation
- Domestic flights from Hanoi to Danang and vice versa
- Guided Hanoi street food tour
- All activities and entrance fees as listed in the itinerary
- Overnight cruise in Lan Ha Bay with excursions
- Bicycle and bamboo boat tour in Hoi An countryside
- Meals as listed: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)
- Free Vietnamese SIM card with data
- 24/7 support via WhatsApp from our Vietnam expert team
- International flights to and from Vietnam
- Vietnam visa and travel insurance
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional tours and activities
- Personal expenses such as tips, drinks, and souvenirs
Tour information
- This is a fully individual (private) tour, not a group tour. Some activities or transfers may be shared, such as boat rides or bus journeys.
- All elements of this tour can be customized - change destinations, adjust the number of days, start from a different city, choose private or group options, or upgrade hotels. Let us tailor it to your wishes.
- We carefully select accommodations based on customer feedback and experience. From hotels to homestays and cruises, your comfort is our priority. Have specific preferences? We’re happy to customize your stay upon request.
- This tour runs year-round. Depending on weather conditions, certain activities may be rescheduled or adjusted to ensure your safety and the best experience.
- Most accommodations offer free WiFi. In addition, we provide a Vietnamese SIM card with data so you can stay connected throughout your trip.
- You’ll receive a free SIM card with mobile data and have internet access throughout your journey. Our Vietnam expert team is available 24/7 via WhatsApp for any questions or support.
- We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-specific meals for all included tours. Please inform us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
- This tour includes light to moderate activities such as walking and cycling. If you have any concerns about the difficulty level, let us know, we can adjust the itinerary to your comfort.
- This tour is enjoyable all year round. However, late spring and summer (March–August) often offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- Many nationalities require a visa to enter Vietnam. Some (like UK, Germany, France) may be exempt for short stays, while others (such as the US, Australia) need to apply. The easiest option is the official e-visa, which takes a few days to process. Be sure to arrange it in advance - there is no visa on arrival.
- For cancellation terms and travel conditions, please read our full policy here: https://localvietnam.com/cancellation/
Price Overview
The prices shown below are estimated and may vary depending on the season, availability, and changes from our local partners. Final pricing can also be influenced by any customizations you request for this tour.
Estimated Price Per Person (USD)
Prices shown are per person, based on the number of people in your group.
| 1 Person | 2 Persons | 3 Persons | 4 Persons | 5 Persons | 6 Persons | 7 Persons | 8 Persons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2085 | $1350 | $1286 | $1254 | $1225 | $1205 | $1193 | $1185 |
When is the best time for this 2-week North & Central tour?
Best time: February–April and September–early October, when both regions align well. The North is cool and pleasant for walking and sightseeing, and Central Vietnam is warm and mostly dry.
- May–August: Possible, but hotter in Central Vietnam and wetter in the North. Landscapes are very green, though trekking paths can be more slippery.
- Late October–November: Central Vietnam (especially around Hoi An) can see heavy rain or flooding; we may adjust this part of the route.
- December–January: Cooler in the North but still comfortable; Central Vietnam begins to dry out again.
How difficult are the activities in this tour?
Is this a private tour or a group tour?
What is the best place to extend my stay?
Where to add extra days:
- Hoi An: Extra beach time, countryside cycling, Old Town sightseeing, and day trips. Easy to fill more days with activities or simply relax by the beach.
- Ninh Binh: Peaceful countryside, swimming pools, rice paddies, cycling, temples, and caves — great for slow travel and nature.
- Pu Luong: Very relaxing mountain atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Limited activities beyond trekking, so good for quiet downtime.
The best choice depends on your travel dates and weather. Contact us and we’ll recommend the ideal place based on the season.
Is this itinerary suitable for senior travelers or families with children?
Why Pu Luong instead of Sapa?
FAQ about 2 Weeks North & Central Vietnam in Slow Pace
When is the best time for this 2-week North & Central tour?
Best time: February–April and September–early October, when both regions align well. The North is cool and pleasant for walking and sightseeing, and Central Vietnam is warm and mostly dry.
- May–August: Possible, but hotter in Central Vietnam and wetter in the North. Landscapes are very green, though trekking paths can be more slippery.
- Late October–November: Central Vietnam (especially around Hoi An) can see heavy rain or flooding; we may adjust this part of the route.
- December–January: Cooler in the North but still comfortable; Central Vietnam begins to dry out again.
How difficult are the activities in this tour?
Is this a private tour or a group tour?
What is the best place to extend my stay?
Where to add extra days:
- Hoi An: Extra beach time, countryside cycling, Old Town sightseeing, and day trips. Easy to fill more days with activities or simply relax by the beach.
- Ninh Binh: Peaceful countryside, swimming pools, rice paddies, cycling, temples, and caves — great for slow travel and nature.
- Pu Luong: Very relaxing mountain atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Limited activities beyond trekking, so good for quiet downtime.
The best choice depends on your travel dates and weather. Contact us and we’ll recommend the ideal place based on the season.
Is this itinerary suitable for senior travelers or families with children?
Why Pu Luong instead of Sapa?
Booking With Local Vietnam
How does the payment process work?
First you send us a request with your travel dates, number of people, and any custom changes you’d like. We prepare a proposal, and you can adjust it further until everything fits your wishes. Once you approve, a 30% deposit is required to secure the trip. The remaining balance is paid one month before your start date. Payment is available by bank transfer or credit card.
What are my payment options?
We offer two payment methods:
Bank transfer:
You can pay directly to our company bank account. We support multiple currencies (USD, EUR, CAD, AUD), and there are no fees from our side. Your own bank may charge fees for international transfers.
Credit card:
We process card payments through PayPal (no PayPal account needed). PayPal provides additional security and buyer protection, but it also handles currency conversion and charges fees. We add a 3% service fee for this option.
Do I need to pay the full amount upfront?
No. For bookings made more than one month in advance, only a 30% deposit is needed to secure the tour. If you book within one month of your start date, full payment is required.
Is it safe to book with Local Vietnam?
Yes. Local Vietnam is a registered travel company operating for many years with strong reviews and a solid reputation. All bank transfers go directly into our verified company account, and credit card payments are handled securely through PayPal. We also run our own lodge in Ha Giang, which reflects our long-term commitment in Vietnam.
What will I receive after booking?
You’ll receive a detailed overview of your entire trip, including accommodations, transfers, activities, and services. Vietnam doesn’t use separate vouchers for each item, so one master overview is all you need. For any flights or trains included in your tour, tickets are sent to you around three weeks before departure.
Customizing Your Tour
What parts of the tour can I customize?
Everything can be customized. As a local company, we arrange all services ourselves, so you can adjust the tour exactly to your wishes. Most travelers use our package tours as a template and make changes such as choosing a different start or end point, adding or removing destinations, selecting different hotels, or including or skipping specific activities.
Can I upgrade or change the hotels?
Yes. We carefully select hotels based on years of guest feedback and long-term partnerships, but if you prefer a different style or a specific hotel, we are happy to adjust the accommodation for you.
Can I add or remove days from the itinerary?
Absolutely. You can add extra days anywhere in the itinerary—at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end. We can extend time at destinations you already visit or add a completely new stop with additional days.
Can I add or remove destinations or activities?
Yes. You can swap destinations, remove places that don’t interest you, or add experiences that match your travel style. We design the itinerary around what you truly want to see and do.
How does the customization process work?
Simply use the form on this page to share your wishes. You can ask questions, request changes, or submit a full customization request. We adjust the itinerary based on your input and send you an updated proposal until it fits your exact wishes.
Traveling With Local Vietnam
Do I get support during the trip?
Yes. When you arrive, you receive a Vietnam SIM card with mobile data, so you have internet everywhere—not just where there is Wi-Fi. Your dedicated Vietnam Expert stays in touch with you on WhatsApp, updates you about your tours, and answers any questions you may have. You travel privately and independently, but always with support within reach.
Who do I contact if I need help?
You will have a direct WhatsApp number for your dedicated Vietnam Expert. You can message anytime during your trip, and we respond quickly from within Vietnam. For urgent situations, we also provide a local phone number.
What happens if weather affects part of the tour?
We are based in Vietnam and can react fast. With years of experience handling weather changes, we adjust the itinerary immediately—switching to another activity, changing destinations, or rearranging your schedule so you can do it later in the trip.
Can I make changes during the trip?
Yes, changes are always possible. Weather-related adjustments are handled automatically. Other changes are usually possible too, but depending on availability and our local partners, additional costs may apply.
Is transportation arranged for every part of the trip?
Yes. All transportation within Vietnam is included according to your itinerary—airport pickups, transfers, drivers, guides, and any local transport needed. The only thing not included is your international flight, but we can advise you if needed.
About Vietnam
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Vietnam has three different climate regions, so there is no single “best” month for the whole country. Generally, October to April offers cooler, drier weather in the north and central regions, while the south is warm year-round with a dry season from December to April. The ideal time depends on where you plan to go and what you want to do.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
That depends on your nationality. Many travelers still need a visa, which is easy to arrange online through Vietnam’s official e-visa system. Apply in advance—it usually takes 3–5 working days, and there is no visa on arrival. Several countries, mostly in Europe, have a visa exemption for stays up to 45 days.
Is Vietnam safe for travelers?
Yes. Vietnam is considered one of the safest countries in Asia, with very little crime targeting travelers and no political unrest. As with any destination, be aware of common tourist scams and take care in traffic, which is the biggest safety concern.
Do I need any vaccinations or malaria prevention for Vietnam?
No vaccinations are mandatory. Some vaccinations are recommended depending on your personal situation and travel plans. Malaria is rare and limited to a few remote border regions, not areas most visitors go. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue can occur, so mosquito protection is advised. For personalized medical advice, always consult your local doctor or travel clinic.
How many days do you recommend for a trip to Vietnam?
As many days as you can comfortably travel. For one week, focus on one region to avoid rushing. With two weeks, you can explore one or two regions. From three weeks onward, it becomes realistic to combine two or three regions without spending too much time moving between destinations.