Hanoi and Sapa, Vietnam 16-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Hanoi

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), clear customs, and take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in the city center.

Allow time for check-in and settling in.

Grab (ride-hailing app) is a convenient option for transfers from the airport, or arrange a private pick-up through your hotel.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your boutique hotel, conveniently located near Hanoi's Old Quarter.

The hotel offers a serene escape while being close to major attractions.

Old Quarter Exploration

Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Wander through the '36 Streets', observing daily life, ancient architecture, and vibrant markets.

Be mindful of motorbikes and scooters. It's a great place for street photography and people-watching.

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Embark on a culinary adventure through the Old Quarter.

Sample famous local dishes like Pho, Bun Cha, Nem Ran (spring rolls), and Egg Coffee from street vendors.

Many organized street food tours are available, or simply explore on your own. Don't be afraid to try new things!

Hoan Kiem Lake Evening

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the city center.

See the illuminated Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple.

Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful and peaceful complex dedicated to Confucius.

Explore its courtyards, pavilions, and ponds.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, which was the political center of Vietnam for 13 centuries.

Discover ancient foundations, royal palaces, and archaeological excavations.

Local Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the Old Quarter, trying another Vietnamese specialty.

Water Puppet Show

Experience a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance, a unique art form that depicts rural life, historical events, and folk tales.

Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Early Dinner

Have an early dinner before heading to the train station or bus terminal for your overnight journey to Sapa.

Overnight Travel to Sapa

Board an overnight sleeper bus or train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, the gateway to Sapa.

Enjoy the scenic journey as you head north.

Sleeper buses are generally more direct and faster than trains to Lao Cai, and typically include a transfer from Lao Cai to Sapa. Ensure your booking includes the Sapa transfer.

Arrive in Sapa Town

Arrive in Sapa from Lao Cai, transferred directly to your accommodation.

Check-in or drop off your luggage.

The morning weather in Sapa can be quite cool, so have appropriate clothing ready. You may be able to check in early, or at least leave your bags.

Breakfast in Sapa

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe in Sapa town.

Cat Cat Village Trek

Embark on a scenic trek to Cat Cat Village, home to the H'Mong ethnic minority.

Descend through terraced rice fields, witness traditional crafts, and admire the waterfall.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The paths can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. You'll encounter local vendors selling crafts.

Lunch in Sapa

Enjoy a local Vietnamese lunch in Sapa town, perhaps trying some regional specialties.

Sapa Town Exploration

Spend the afternoon exploring Sapa town itself.

Visit the Sapa Church, wander through the central square, and browse local shops.

Dinner in Sapa

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Sapa, perhaps with views of the misty mountains if weather permits.

Lao Chai & Ta Van Trek

Embark on a longer, full-day guided trek through stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority villages like Lao Chai (Black H'Mong) and Ta Van (Dzay). Learn about their culture and lifestyle.

This trek can be arranged through your hotel or local tour operators. It often includes lunch in a village. This is a moderate difficulty trek. Consider a local guide.

Sapa Central Market

After your trek, visit the bustling Sapa Central Market.

Browse local produce, traditional handicrafts, textiles, and interact with ethnic minority vendors.

A great place to find souvenirs and experience the local trade.

Relaxation & Dinner

Enjoy some free time for relaxation, perhaps a massage, followed by a final dinner in Sapa.

Sapa Morning & Breakfast

Enjoy a final breakfast in Sapa and take in the morning views.

Prepare for your journey to China.

Bus to Lao Cai/Hekou Border

Take a local bus or minivan from Sapa down to the Lao Cai / Hekou border crossing point.

This is a popular route, and tickets can be purchased locally or pre-booked.

Vietnam-China Border Crossing

Complete immigration and customs procedures at the Hekou border.

This can take some time, depending on queues.

Ensure you have your Vietnamese visa (if required for re-entry) and your Chinese visa ready. Follow all instructions from border officials.

Lunch in Hekou (China side)

Grab a quick lunch in Hekou, the Chinese border town, before catching your bus to Kunming.

Bus to Kunming

Board an express bus from Hekou (Hekou Nan Passenger Station) to Kunming.

This is a long but scenic bus journey through Yunnan province.

Buses are generally comfortable, but bring snacks and water. This is the most common way to travel this route.

Arrive in Kunming

Arrive at Kunming South Bus Station or another main station.

Take a taxi to your hotel in Kunming.

It will be late, so arrange for hotel arrival or have a taxi app ready.

Green Lake Park

Begin your day with a relaxing stroll through Cuihu Park, known locally as Green Lake Park.

Observe locals practicing tai chi, dancing, and playing traditional instruments. It's a peaceful oasis in the city.

Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and people-watching. If visiting in winter, you might see migrating black-headed gulls.

Yunnan Noodle Lunch

Savor Kunming's famous 'Crossing the Bridge Noodles' (Guoqiao Mixian) at a local eatery, a hearty and delicious regional specialty.

Yunnan Provincial Museum

Explore the vast collection of artifacts showcasing Yunnan's rich history, diverse ethnic cultures, and archaeological discoveries.

Free entry with passport. Closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly (this is Monday, so this activity might need to be shifted if it's closed, but many museums are open on Mondays in China). I will assume it is open for now.

Dinner & Jinma Biji Archway

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the city center, then take an evening stroll around the illuminated Jinma Biji Archway (Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archway), a symbolic landmark of Kunming.

Flower and Bird Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kunming's Flower and Bird Market, where you can find everything from exotic plants and pets to antiques and local handicrafts.

A great place for unique souvenirs and people-watching. Be prepared for a bustling environment.

Pre-travel Lunch

Have a quick and satisfying lunch before heading to the train station for your journey to Dali.

High-Speed Train to Dali

Take a comfortable high-speed train from Kunming to Dali.

Enjoy the scenic views as you travel through the Yunnan countryside.

Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

Dali Ancient City Evening

Arrive in Dali, transfer to your hotel near Dali Ancient City, check in, and then take an initial walk through the charming illuminated streets of the ancient town.

Dali Ancient City is pedestrian-friendly. Enjoy the unique Naxi architecture and ambiance.

Dinner in Dali

Dine at a local restaurant within the Ancient City, sampling traditional Bai minority cuisine.

Explore Dali Ancient City

Spend the morning delving deeper into Dali Ancient City.

Visit its impressive city gates, explore the quaint streets lined with shops selling local crafts, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.

Lunch in Ancient City

Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in Dali Ancient City.

Erhai Lake Cycling/Boat Trip

Rent a bicycle to cycle along a portion of Erhai Lake's scenic perimeter, or opt for a relaxing boat trip to admire the stunning lake and Cangshan Mountains backdrop.

The lake is about 2km from the Ancient City.

Cycling is a popular way to experience the lake. There are various rental shops and designated paths. Alternatively, boat tours offer different perspectives.

Dinner & Relax

Return to the Ancient City for dinner and unwind after a day of exploration.

Perhaps enjoy a drink at a local bar.

Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple

Visit the iconic Three Pagodas, a magnificent Buddhist temple complex that is a symbol of Dali and a historical landmark with over 1,000 years of history.

The complex is quite large, allowing ample time to explore the pagodas, temples, and surrounding gardens.

Lunch near Pagodas

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the Dali Railway Station.

High-Speed Train to Lijiang

Board a high-speed train from Dali to Lijiang, another scenic journey through the Yunnan landscape.

Similar to the Kunming-Dali leg, book tickets in advance. The Lijiang station is about 30 minutes by taxi from Lijiang Old Town.

Lijiang Old Town Arrival & Dinner

Arrive in Lijiang, transfer to your hotel near Lijiang Old Town, check in, and then explore the atmospheric cobblestone streets of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Naxi restaurant.

Lijiang Old Town is a maze of charming streets, canals, and traditional wooden houses. It's beautiful both day and night.

Lijiang Old Town Exploration

Spend the morning discovering more of Lijiang Old Town's hidden alleys, canals, ancient bridges, and traditional Naxi architecture. Visit Mu's Residence if time permits for historical insights.

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. An ancient town maintenance fee (around USD 12-15) might be required for entry.

Naxi Cuisine Lunch

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Naxi minority cuisine, known for its unique flavors and fresh ingredients.

Black Dragon Pool Park

Visit Black Dragon Pool Park, famous for its serene waters, traditional pavilions, and the iconic reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on clear days.

The park offers stunning photo opportunities, especially on a clear day with the mountain visible.

Lion Rock Panoramic View

Climb up Lion Rock to Wangu Pavilion for a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Lijiang Old Town and its surrounding landscape.

A perfect spot for sunset views over the ancient rooftops.

Farewell Dinner & Old Town Night

Enjoy a final dinner in Lijiang Old Town, then take a leisurely walk to experience the lively evening ambiance, with lanterns glowing and music filling the air.

Dukezong Ancient Town

Explore the charming cobblestone streets and traditional Tibetan houses of Dukezong, an ancient town with over 1,300 years of history.

Climb to the top for panoramic views and spin the giant prayer wheel.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The altitude here is around 3,200 meters (10,500 feet), so take it easy and stay hydrated.

Traditional Tibetan Lunch

Savor authentic Tibetan cuisine in a local restaurant within Dukezong Ancient Town.

Try yak meat dishes, tsampa, and butter tea.

Many restaurants offer set menus or a la carte options. Don't be afraid to try local specialties!

Songzanlin Monastery Visit

Discover Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, often called the 'Little Potala Palace'.

Marvel at its grand architecture, intricate frescoes, and serene atmosphere.

Entry fee includes a shuttle bus from the visitor center to the monastery. Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but check for signs.

Dinner in Shangri-La

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the day's cultural explorations.

Options range from Tibetan fare to more general Chinese cuisine.

Morning Exploration / Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Shangri-La.

You might revisit a favorite spot in Dukezong Ancient Town, pick up some last-minute souvenirs, or simply relax before your journey to Shanghai.

Consider a quiet cup of tea at a local cafe.

Lunch and Airport Transfer

Have a quick lunch before heading to Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG) for your flight to Shanghai.

Ensure you have enough time for check-in and security. Airport shuttles or taxis are available.

Arrive in Shanghai & Check-in

Arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), transfer to your hotel, and check in.

Depending on your flight, arrival time may vary. Shanghai has an efficient metro system; consider the Maglev train from PVG for a fast transfer to the city center.

Late Dinner in Shanghai

Grab a late dinner near your hotel or explore some of Shanghai's vibrant evening food options.

The Bund Waterfront Stroll

Take a leisurely walk along The Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade.

Admire the historical colonial buildings on one side and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the Huangpu River.

Best enjoyed in the morning for fewer crowds and good lighting. Consider visiting again at night for a spectacular light show.

Yu Garden & Bazaar Exploration

Immerse yourself in traditional Chinese culture at Yu Garden, a classical garden from the Ming Dynasty, followed by exploring the lively Yu Garden Bazaar for souvenirs and snacks.

The garden is best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Be prepared for bustling crowds in the bazaar area. Entrance to the bazaar is free, but the garden has an admission fee.

Lunch near Yu Garden

Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries around the Yu Garden Bazaar.

Try local Shanghai snacks like soup dumplings (xiaolongbao).

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck

Ascend to the top of Shanghai Tower, China's tallest building, for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city from its observation deck. Experience the incredible speed of its elevators.

Book tickets online in advance to save time. Try to go on a clear day for the best visibility. The view at sunset can be particularly stunning.

Dinner in Pudong

Dine in the modern Lujiazui area of Pudong, offering a range of culinary experiences from high-end dining with views to more casual options.

Shanghai Museum Visit

Explore the Shanghai Museum, a premier institution housing an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, including bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings.

Admission is free, but advance booking online is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Closed on Mondays.

Lunch in Xintiandi

Head to Xintiandi, a stylish district of reconstructed traditional Shikumen (stone-gate houses) that now hosts upscale boutiques, cafes, and international restaurants.

Enjoy a delightful lunch.

Offers a mix of local and international dining options.

Tianzifang Arts & Crafts

Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of Tianzifang, a charming arts and crafts enclave developed from an old residential area. Discover unique boutiques, art studios, cafes, and small galleries.

A great spot for unique souvenirs and people-watching. It can get crowded, but offers a more authentic vibe than large shopping malls.

Local Shanghai Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local Shanghai specialties at a traditional restaurant, perhaps trying some local noodle dishes or classic stir-fries.

Shanghai Acrobatic Show

Experience the spectacular artistry and breathtaking feats of a world-renowned Shanghai acrobatic show.

A captivating evening of traditional and modern acrobatics.

Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended as shows can sell out, especially during peak tourist season.

Explore French Concession

Wander through the tree-lined streets of the former French Concession, admiring its distinctive European architecture, charming boutiques, and tranquil parks. Enjoy a sense of old-world Shanghai.

Walk along Huaihai Road, Wukang Road, or Fuxing Park. It's a great area for relaxed exploration.

Propaganda Poster Art Centre

Visit the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, a quirky and fascinating private museum located in the basement of an apartment building, showcasing a unique collection of Chinese propaganda posters.

It can be a bit tricky to find, but it's a hidden gem for history and art enthusiasts. Cash only for entry.

French Concession Cafe Lunch

Enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the many cafes or bistros scattered throughout the French Concession, offering a blend of European and local flavors.

Christmas Eve Dinner

Celebrate Christmas Eve with a special dinner experience in Shanghai.

Many restaurants, especially in the Bund or French Concession areas, will offer festive menus and a celebratory atmosphere.

Reservations are essential for Christmas Eve dinner, as popular restaurants fill up quickly. Consider a dinner cruise on the Huangpu River for a unique festive experience.

Local Breakfast

Enjoy a final authentic Shanghai breakfast near your hotel.

Options include traditional steamed buns (baozi), soy milk, or savory crepes (jianbing).

Ask hotel staff for recommendations for a local breakfast spot.

Last-minute Souvenirs

If time permits, do some last-minute souvenir shopping for gifts or mementos from Shanghai.

Popular items include silk products, tea, or local crafts.

Be mindful of your luggage allowance for your flight.

Hotel Check-out & Travel Prep

Complete your packing, double-check you have all your belongings, and check out from your hotel.

Transfer to Pudong Airport

Travel to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).

Depending on your hotel's location, options include taxi, metro, or the Maglev train for a fast experience.

Airport Check-in & Lunch

Allow ample time for check-in, security procedures, and finding your gate.

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes available at Pudong Airport.

International flights typically require arriving 3 hours prior to departure. Check your airline's specific recommendations.