Sa Pa Lake

I spent 3 months backpacking all around Vietnam and have compiled this list of all my must-dos in each city! From epic motorbike rides to otherworldly caves to trendy rooftop bars to the best bahn mi...this list has everything you'll need to get the most out of your trip. Enjoy!

This 11-day itinerary covers travel across Northern Vietnam, including the following destinations: Hanoi (Old Quarter), SaPa, Ninh Binh, and a 3-day cruise through Halong Bay. Included in the itinerary is an interactive map with recommendations for hotels, restaurants, means of transportation, and sights to see. In addition, tips and tricks to help you out during your stay in Vietnam, including things we wish we had done or items that we wish we had brought along with us. This was by far our favorite trip that we have taken; Vietnam is an incredibly beautiful, safe, and affordable country rich in culture and with hard-working and resilient people. I would recommend this trip to anyone looking to learn more about Vietnam and the Northern Vietnamese people, eat delicious food, and see unforgettable natural sights.

This travel guide takes you through the highlights of Northern Vietnam (Ninh Binh, Sapa, and Hanoi) with a detailed itinerary, a digital map, and booking links for accommodations, transportation, and activities. I’ve also included practical tips and insights from my own experience to help you plan your trip.