Northern Vietnam’s most rewarding 3-day tours pack maximum value into a short time. I’m especially fond of three standout options that consistently deliver memorable experiences: Halong Bay’s limestone peaks and floating villages, Ha Giang’s dramatic mountain passes and tribal villages, and Pu Luong’s serene rice terraces with homestay experiences.
What makes these routes work? Smart logistics, authentic cultural encounters, and stunning landscapes – all expertly compressed into 72 hours. The Halong cruise lets you sleep aboard traditional boats, while Ha Giang puts you on winding roads through Vietnam’s most striking alpine scenery. In Pu Luong, you’ll find yourself in the heart of rural village life.
Let’s examine each top tour option in detail.
Key Points
- The VSpirit Cruise offers a highly-rated 3-day cruise exploring Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay with activities like swimming, trekking, and visits to UNESCO sites.
- The Pu Luong Experience provides a 3-day eco-friendly journey from Hanoi with opportunities for walking, trekking, and culture in traditional Thai villages.
- The Elite of The Seas Luxury Cruise is a 3-day cruise through Halong and Lan Ha Bays with a high traveler rating, gourmet meals, and amenities like limousine transfers.
- The Ha Giang Loop Adventure is a 3-day motorbike tour from Hanoi with scenic highlights like Bac Sum Slope and Ma Pi Leng Pass, and culture in local villages.
- The Swan Cruises Bai Tu Long Bay offers a 3-day, 2-night cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay with private cabins, meals, kayaking, and cultural visits to Thien Canh Son Cave and Vung Vieng fishing village.
3-day VSpirit Cruise of Halong Bay-Lan Ha Bay
Although Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most popular destinations, the VSpirit Cruise offers travelers a chance to explore the lesser-known Lan Ha Bay as well.
This 3-day cruise is recommended by 95% of travelers and boasts a 5.0 rating from 204 reviews. The cruise includes activities like swimming, trekking, and kayaking, as well as visits to UNESCO-listed landscapes, Sung Sot Cave, and a pearl farm.
Priced from $309 per person, the cruise includes two nights’ accommodation, meals, an English-speaking guide, and round-trip transfers from Hanoi.
While the itinerary is subject to change due to weather, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning natural beauty of northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: 3-day VSpirit Cruise of Halong Bay-Lan Ha Bay Review
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From Hanoi to Pu Luong 3 Days Unforgettable Experiences
Moving from the popular Halong Bay cruise, travelers can embark on an equally captivating 3-day journey from Hanoi to the stunning Pu Luong region.
Priced from $285.70 per person, this eco-friendly experience offers a mix of walking, trekking, and relaxation.
Highlights include stunning mountain views, traditional Thai villages, a bamboo boat ride, and an opportunity to visit a waterfall for swimming.
All transport, meals, and guides are included, with the option to reserve without upfront payment.
Travelers should pack comfortable clothes and gear, and note the surcharge during the Lunar New Year period.
Read our full review: From Hanoi to Pu Luong 3 Days Unforgettable Experiences Review
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Elite of The Seas – Unique Luxury 3 Days Cruise in Halong & Lan Ha Bay
Offering a luxurious and unforgettable experience, the Elite of The Seas cruise takes travelers on a remarkable 3-day journey through the stunning Halong and Lan Ha Bays.
Rated 4.8 out of 24 reviews, this cruise by Authentic Hanoi Homestay & Travel is highly recommended, with a 96% traveler approval rate.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including taichi, swimming, and kayaking, while indulging in delectable meals.
The cruise accommodates up to 70 travelers and offers a range of transportation options, including limousine transfers from Hanoi.
With its accessibility, cancellation policy, and inclusions, the Elite of The Seas provides a truly exceptional luxury experience in Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Elite of The Seas – Unique Luxury 3 Days Cruise in Halong & Lan Ha Bay Review
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Ha Giang Loop 3 Day Hight Quality Small Group & Private Room
For travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure in Northern Vietnam, the Ha Giang Loop 3 Day High Quality Small Group & Private Room tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of this captivating region.
Priced from $307.21 per person, this 3-day motorbike tour departs from Hanoi, offering a flexible and fully guided experience with a small group size.
Highlights include the breathtaking Bac Sum Slope, Quan Ba Heaven Gate, and the Ma Pi Leng Pass, along with culture in local villages.
With comfortable private room accommodations, delicious meals, and an English-speaking guide, this tour promises an unparalleled exploration of Northern Vietnam’s natural beauty and unique heritage.
Read our full review: Ha Giang Loop 3 Day Hight Quality Small Group & Private Room Review
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Swan Cruises: Bai Tu Long Bay 3D2N – Vung Vieng Village
Exploring the captivating Bai Tu Long Bay, Swan Cruises’ 3-day, 2-night journey takes travelers on an immersive encounter with the region’s natural wonders and local culture.
With 94 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, the cruise offers a leisurely pace to experience highlights like the Thien Canh Son Cave and Vung Vieng fishing village.
The all-inclusive package covers 2 nights in private cabins, meals, activities like kayaking, and round-trip transportation from Hanoi.
While the accommodations and meals receive some critique, the cruise’s value and stunning Bai Tu Long Bay setting make it an attractive option for relaxation and culture.
Priced from $360 per person, this Swan Cruises experience is a top pick for exploring Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Swan Cruises: Bai Tu Long Bay 3D2N – Vung Vieng Village Review
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3 Days 2 Nights On Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan Cat Ba Archipelago
Travelers seeking an immersive experience in the pristine Lan Ha Bay can embark on a 3-day, 2-night discovery journey with Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan.
The cruise offers comfortable cabins with private balconies and panoramic views. Onboard amenities include an outdoor lounge, pool bar, and dining options. Guests can participate in a range of activities like cookery demonstrations, music, and art exhibits.
The itinerary features beach activities such as swimming, kayaking, and caving. Transportation from Hanoi is available, and the cruise accommodates up to 40 travelers.
With a 5-star rating and 98% traveler recommendation, this tour provides an exceptional exploration of the stunning Lan Ha Bay.
Read our full review: 3 Days 2 Nights On Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan Cat Ba Archipelago Review
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Orchid Cruises- Top Notch Cruise 3 Days Visit Halong & Lan Ha Bay
Orchid Cruises offers a top-notch 3-day cruise exploring the stunning Halong and Lan Ha Bays of Northern Vietnam.
The cruise accommodates up to 40 guests in luxury seaview balcony rooms. Included are all meals, beverages, and activities like cooking classes, Tai Chi, kayaking, and squid fishing. Guests can also visit Viet Hai Village.
Roundtrip transportation from Hanoi is available for $30 per person.
Positive reviews praise the serene experience, exquisite cuisine, and exceptional service from staff like Lily, Louis, and Emily.
With a 4.5-star rating from 17 reviews, this cruise offers a top-notch way to explore the stunning landscapes of Halong and Lan Ha Bays.
Read our full review: Orchid Cruises- Top Notch Cruise 3 Days Visit Halong & Lan Ha Bay Review
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Dora Cruises 3 Days 2 Nights Depart From Hanoi Old Quarter
For those looking to venture out from the vibrant Hanoi Old Quarter, Dora Cruises offers a remarkable 3-day, 2-night excursion through the captivating landscapes of Northern Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay.
This tour, limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, departs from the Old Quarter and immerses guests in the region’s natural wonders. The package includes private cabin accommodation on the Margaret Cruise, all meals, kayaking, and on-board insurance.
While airfare and some extras are excluded, the starting price of $528.21 per person makes this a compelling option for exploring the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay.
With 5 reviews and a 5.0-star rating, Dora Cruises promises an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Dora Cruises 3 Days 2 Nights Depart From Hanoi Old Quarter Review
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Sum Up
Northern Vietnam offers an array of exceptional 3-day tours, catering to diverse traveler preferences. From the iconic Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay cruises to the stunning Pu Luong Nature Reserve and Ha Giang Loop, these experiences showcase the region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and unique activities. Whether seeking luxury or adventure, visitors can find an unforgettable 3-day itinerary to suit their needs and interests in this captivating corner of Vietnam.