North & Central Vietnam: Hanoi, Hoi An & Countryside Adventures

Sure, you could take the well-travelled path through Vietnam. But, let’s be real, the back roads make for way better stories — and this eight-day, hostel-based trip is definitely proof. After a night out in Hanoi, head into the countryside, stopping at pagodas, local fish markets, and the Vinh Moc Tunnels: a massive bomb shelter from the Vietnam War. Next, gear up for a ‘gram-worthy day as you road trip in an open-top jeep, visiting the incredible An Bang Cemetery, taking a dip at Lang Co beach, and snapping pics of the views along Hai Van Pass before saying your goodbyes in Hoi An.

Day 1 Hanoi
Arrive at any time, and choose to kick back at the hostel, or head out to explore the city before meeting up with fellow Roamies in the evening. Ready to indulge your inner foodie? Head out for a walk through the back streets and markets of the city’s old quarter, sampling local favourites like “nem ran” and “banh goi.” Take a pit stop at a street-side bar then swing by Hanoi Food Culture restaurant, a G Values Fund Project, and try the city’s signature specialty coffee. Having fun yet? Of course you are!

Day 2 Hanoi/Ninh Bình
Ready to hit the backroads? Let’s go! Start with a visit to Tam Chuc Pagoda, the largest in southeast Asia. Continue on to Ninh Binh and gaze in awe at the limestone cliffs rising up from the rice fields. No filters required as this landscape is already picture-perfect. Ready to chill? Enjoy some free time, you deserve it. Kick back at the hostel and meet some new friends over a cold one, rent a paddle boat or bike to explore off the beaten trail in the beautiful countryside. The choice is yours!

Day 3 Ninh Bình
Today is yours–get out and explore! Go temple-hopping, biking or hike through rice fields. Feeling energetic? Trek up to Hang Mua Peak for ridiculous views of the surrounding countryside. Adventurous? Jump in a small boat to explore the Trang An Grottoes–small caves found along the canals and lakes only accessible by water. Lazy? No worries, chill out at the hostel and catch up on your social feeds. Whatever you choose, don't forget to pack-up before heading out to catch the overnight sleeper train–All Aboard!

Day 4 Dong Hoi/Phong Nha
Are you ready to dive into local life even more? Of course you are! Let's start at the expansive Dong Hoi fish market, a bustling collection of vendors selling all manner of seafood. Hungry? Stop by a stall for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of Banh Mi–served on soft French baguettes, they are a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. Now you're fuelled up, hop on a bike and ride out into the gorgeous rural countryside. How 'bout some down time? It's been a busy day so head to your hostel in Phong Nha to relax and share your adventures with your mates.

Day 5 Phong Nha
Live it up with a full free day in Phong Nha–an adventure lovers paradise! Caving anyone? You can't miss the chance to explore the world's largest cave system. Don't forget the waterproof case because these shots will make you the envy of your social feeds. Something else perhaps? Your CEO knows all the insiders for hiking and biking excursions throughout this stunning, vast wilderness. You must be thirsty by now? Then it's time to chill out with the option to join a sunset bar crawl with the gang-freedom never tasted so good!

Day 6 Phong Nha/Huế
Ready to explore underground? Find out as you descend into the Vinh Moc tunnels (like the Cu Chi tunnels without the crowds), built by local villagers during the Vietnam War. After, find your way to Hue (pun intended) for a free afternoon. Feeling adventurous? Hop on the back of a motorbike for a thrilling ride around town. Curious? Visit the historic Citadel and Royal tombs. Chill? Kick back at the hostel or lounge at a riverside bar. Does it get any better than this? I think not.

Day 7 Huế/Hoi An
Ready for an epic day? Let's jump into open-top jeeps for a thrilling drive across iconic Hai Van pass. First stop is the city of ghosts at the infamous An Bang cemetery. Need to cool down? Hit beautiful Lang Co Beach for a refreshing dip in the sea and traditional local lunch. Continue to fill your social feeds with shots from Da Nang bay, an abandoned French fort and Marble mountain pagoda. Seen enough? Of course you haven't! Hoi An awaits with a walk through the old town ending at a lively riverside bar. How's that for epic?

Day 8 Hoi An
Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time, or keep the adventure going by heading south to Vietnam's amazing beaches on the next leg of this epic adventure.