Drive or shuttle from Hanoi to Sapa takes ~5–6 hours by car/van; many travelers use overnight train + shuttle — plan arrival mid/late morning if possible.
Easy cultural walk to a Hmong village with waterfalls and terraces; village access is generally available 8:00am–5:00pm and is a gentle intro to local life.
Visit the mausoleum (closed Mon & Fri mornings and occasionally for ceremonies) and surrounding French colonial sites; check current opening times before you go.
Leave Hanoi mid-afternoon for Hạ Long by private car or shuttle (~3.5–4 hours) to board an overnight cruise the same day or next morning depending on your chosen cruise schedule.
Phú Quốc’s beaches are prime for swimming and snorkeling; public access is open all day but some beaches are better reached by short drive (Sao Beach ~30–40 minutes).
Choose a short snorkeling tour, boat trip to nearby islets, or visit VinWonders/Phu Quoc Safari (check attraction opening hours as they vary seasonally).
Allow ample time for transfer to Phú Quốc International Airport (PQC) and domestic/ international departures; flights often require arrival 60–90 minutes prior for domestic.