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Ha Long Bay
Limestone karsts and emerald water — Vietnam's most famous natural landmark.
Read the guideBeyond the City
Day Trips from Hanoi
Hanoi is a brilliant base for northern Vietnam. Some of these work as a single (long) day; others deserve at least one night. We say which is which.
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Ninh Binh
Often called "Ha Long Bay on land" — rowboats through rice paddies and limestone caves.
Read the guide⛰️
Sapa
Terraced rice fields and mountain trekking near the Chinese border — best as an overnight.
Read the guide🏍️
Ha Giang Loop
Vietnam's most spectacular motorbike route. What it involves and how much time to allow.
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Tam Coc
The compact, easy-to-reach cousin of Ninh Binh — good for a tighter schedule.
Read the guide🏝️
Cat Ba Island
A quieter, cheaper alternative to a Ha Long Bay cruise, with beaches and national park hiking.
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Mai Chau
A quieter, easier valley trip than Sapa — rice paddies, stilt-house homestays, gentle cycling.
Read the guideOnly got a few days in Hanoi itself?
Here's how to prioritise the city before you head out to the countryside.
See the 3-day itinerary