Northern Vietnam in 7 days

Hanoi plus either the mountains or the bay and Ninh Binh. Seven days is not Hanoi, Ha Long, Sapa, and Ha Giang.

Days 1–2 — Hanoi

Arrive and walk. Do not transfer onward the hour you land.

Days 3–5 — One region

Sapa, the Ha Giang Loop with a driver, or Ha Long plus Ninh Binh. Choose before you book the trains.

Days 6–7 — Hanoi

Return with a spare night so a delay does not become a missed flight.