This tour combines the cultural heritage of Hanoi with the scenic mountains of Sapa.

Vietnam's capital is a city of wide tree lined boulevards with tranquil lakes and colonial villa's has a more sedate pace than other Asian cities. This is a city that offers something for everyone and will leave you wishing that you had longer to explore this enthralling capital.

From Hanoi, take the deluxe overnight Victoria Express train to Sapa; the train has made this area of Vietnam more accessible than ever - and getting there is part of the fun. Sapa is one of Vietnam's most intriguing destinations, set high in the mountains near the China border; it is most famous for its terraced rice paddies and colorful local markets. Home to numerous ethnic tribes and boasting the highest mountain in Indochina, visitors to the region will understand why the area was a favourite with French colonialists as far back as 1920.

Back in Hanoi enjoy the deservedly world famous charms of the Sofitel Metropole before heading home or continuing your journey in Vietnam or one of our other enticing destination.

On arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport an Exotissimo guide will greet you and transfer by private car through the city to your hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi

After breakfast, depart for the Temple of Literature, the garden filled university that educated royalty for over 700 years. Up next is the One Pillar Pagoda, one of Vietnam's most iconic temples. Close by is the mausoleum of the historic figure and father of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh and and the former presidents house on stilts where he lived from 1958 to 1969. Continue the tour with the scenic West lake and add some religious flavor to your experience with visits to Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Taoist Temple.

In the afternoon, visit the Ethnology Museum and end the day at Hanoi's Old Quarter, consisting of narrow streets, markets and Hoan Kiem Lake.

Mid evening proceed to Hanoi Train Station for the night train to Lao Cai.

Overnight on the Victoria Express train.

On arrival in the border town of Lao Cai transfer to the former hill station of Sapa.. Take a morning walking tour of Sapa for a visit to the busy market where Red Dao, Black, Tay, H'mong and other hill tribe people converge from the surrounding countryside to sell their handicrafts and to buy provisions. Following take a light trek to discover Sapa's quaint hill tribe villages set against the stunning Honag Lien Son Mountain Range and Indochina's highest peak, Mt. Fansipan.

Overnight at the Victoria Hotel & Spa, Sapa.

Today visit one of the areas exciting markets (ask you travel consultant for more info), explore the area on foot and take a walking tour around one of the Hill Tribe villages. In the late afternoon depart for Lao Cai Town for your departure back to Hanoi by train.

Overnight on the Victoria Express train.

Arrive early in Hanoi, enjoy breakfast in a local restaurant before commencing the 3.5 hour road transfer to Halong Bay.  Arrive Halong Bay late morning, where you will check in and board your boat for your overnight journey into the bay.  This evening enjoy a sumptuous meal on board as you moor up between Halong's magnificent limestone karsts. 

Overnight onboard.

For early risers, coffee can be enjoyed on deck as the sun - rises over the bay.  Enjoy a leisurely brunch on board your boat as you cruise back to Halong city this morning.  Drive back to Hanoi then take the day to relax as you please with your guide and driver at your disposal. Enjoy the many charms that this city has to offer from the many boutique shops or simply taking a coffee at one of the charming street side coffee shop and watching the world go by.  Tonight, finish the day with a traditional water puppet show. 

Overnight in Hanoi

Free at leisure until your transfer by private car to Hanoi Airport for international flight or domestic extension.