Hai Phong Vietnam: A full guide for first-time travelers

Contents

The Hai Phong Vietnam map (Source: Collected)

1. Where is Hai Phong on the Vietnam map?

Hai Phong is a coastal city situated in the downstream area of the Thai Binh river system in the Red River Delta. It borders Quang Ninh Province to the north and northeast, Hai Duong Province to the northwest, Thai Binh Province to the southwest, and the East Sea to the east, boasting a 125-kilometer-long coastline. The city is home to 5 major estuaries: Bach Dang, Cua Cam, Lach Tray, Van Uc, and Thai Binh.

Renowned as the largest seaport in Northern Vietnam, Hai Phong is a vital transportation hub. It has a comprehensive network of waterway, road, rail, and air routes, facilitating both domestic and international travel. Serving as the primary gateway to the sea for Hanoi and the northern provinces, Hai Phong is a key node in the Northern Key Economic Region and lies along the Vietnam-China economic cooperation corridor. Today, Hai Phong is a centrally governed city and a class-1 national urban center.

More on: North Vietnam itinerary: TOP places & tips for a memorable journey! 

2. The top places to visit in Hai Phong Vietnam

2.1. Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island, located 60 kilometers away from the city center, spans an area of 345 km² and consists of 388 limestone islets rising from the ocean. The main island features rugged limestone mountains, serene bays, and stunning caves, forming a natural masterpiece. In 2023, UNESCO recognized Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago as a World Natural Heritage Site, marking it the first inter-provincial heritage site between two localities in Vietnam.

Visitors to Cat Ba Island are captivated by Lan Ha Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful bays; Cat Ba National Park, known for its biodiversity of flora and fauna; Cat Ba beaches with pristine water; and numerous untouched caves such as Trung Trang Cave and Hospital Cave.

Cat Ba Island is the most popular attraction in Hai Phong Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.2. Do Son Beach

Do Son Beach is located about 20 kilometers southeast of downtown Hai Phong Vietnam. It is nestled within a small peninsula shaped by the Dragon Mountain Range extending into the sea. Pine-covered hills and mountains embrace the beach, painting a scenic coastal vista.

The beach is divided into three zones: Zone 1, the area closest to Do Son’s residential district; Zone 2, the primary beach area; and Zone 3, a peaceful stretch along the shoreline. Here, visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, partake in various beach activities such as canoeing and kayaking, capture breathtaking photos, and indulge in delicious fresh seafood.

Do Son Beach is an essential stop regarding the list of things to do in Hai Phong Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.3. Vinpearl Horse Academy Vu Yen

• Address: Vu Yen Island, Hai An District, Hai Phong Vietnam

Spanning an impressive 29.5 hectares with over 300 stable stalls, Vinpearl Horse Academy Vu Yen is Vietnam’s premier destination for equestrian enthusiasts. It offers exceptional experiences for individuals looking to enhance physical fitness, relieve stress, and connect with nature. The academy is home to a collection of more than 100 individual horses, including rare breeds such as the Akhal Teke renowned for its lustrous coat.

Beyond serving as a hub for professional horse riding training, Vinpearl Horse Academy Vu Yen provides avenues to delve into the cultural significance of horses. You can partake in captivating experiences like horseback camps and elegant carriage tours around the academy. Moreover, the academy hosts workshops and therapeutic activities involving horses, which are suitable for visitors of all ages and foster deeper connections with these animals.

Vinpearl Horse Academy Vu Yen is an exciting entertainment complex centered around horses

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2.4. Elephant Mountain

• Address: An Lao District, Hai Phong Vietnam

Elephant Mountain earns its name from its resemblance to a giant elephant amidst flat plains, casting its shadow over the gentle Lach Tray River. Drawing visitors with its enchanting scenery, the mountain is adorned with dozens of hidden hills, rugged cliffs, and large caves like Hong Voi Cave, Ong Vin Cave, Gia Vi Cave, and Chieng Cave. These caves still retain their pristine beauty, with stalactites forming intricate natural sculptures. 

Elephant Mountain also beckons visitors with its spiritual landmarks, including Hang Temple, Chi Lai Temple, and Long Hoa Pagoda. With its blend of natural wonder and cultural richness, it has been recognized as a national historical and scenic relic since 1962.

Elephant Mountain offers a blend of natural and cultural marvel in Hai Phong Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.5. Hai Phong Museum

• Address: No. 66, Dien Bien Phu Street, Hong Bang District, Hai Phong Vietnam

Hai Phong Museum is a must-visit if you are interested in the history of the city. Constructed in 1919 in the Gothic architectural style, the museum occupies a 4,600m² area that originally belonged to the French-Chinese Bank. In 1959, the building was repurposed as Hai Phong Museum, making it one of the earliest comprehensive research museums in Vietnam. Today, the museum houses and displays over 20,000 artifacts and more than 14,000 photographs and documents, vividly telling the story of the city.

Hai Phong Museum is worth visiting regardless of the weather in Hai Phong Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.6. Vinpearl Golf Hai Phong

• Address: Vu Yen Island, Hai An District, Hai Phong Vietnam

Just a quick 15-minute drive away from the city center, Vinpearl Golf Hai Phong offers 36 holes spread across two courses. The Marsh Course presents a challenge with its natural marshy terrain, while the Lake Course treats players to breathtaking landscapes adorned with diverse water features, creating a tranquil yet exhilarating golfing experience.

At Vinpearl Golf Hai Phong, a dedicated team of professional caddies is on hand to assist players, while premium golf shoe and club rental services ensure a personalized experience for every guest. Additionally, players can savor a diverse selection of local delicacies and Asian-European cuisine, guaranteeing a delightful culinary journey for all.

Experience the allure of a 36-hole island golf course in Hai Phong Vietnam

2.7. Du Hang Pagoda

• Address: No. 121, Du Hang Street, Le Chan District, Hai Phong Vietnam

Located 2 kilometers southwest of the city center, Du Hang Pagoda, also known as Phuc Lam Tu, is a national historical and cultural site. Built during the Early Le Dynasty (980-1009), it has long served as a significant center for Buddhist teachings in Hai Phong Vietnam.

The pagoda complex is quite grand, featuring a seven-compartment main hall made primarily of ironwood and a bell tower with gracefully curved roofs and a large bronze bell. Along both sides of the main hall are serene gardens, including the Thap Tower Garden with 11 towers and a Zen garden surrounding a tranquil pond. The complex also boasts 12 exquisitely crafted statues shaded by ancient trees.

Du Hang Pagoda is a hub of Buddhism in Hai Phong Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.8. Cathedral of The Diocese Of Hai Phong

• Address: No. 46, Hoang Van Thu Street, Hong Bang District, Hai Phong Vietnam

The Cathedral of The Diocese Of Hai Phong is one of the largest and most beautiful churches in the city. Built in the 1920s, its exterior features gray walls and a notably tall tower. Inside, the main altar houses a statue of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the cathedral is designed with characteristic Gothic vaulted ceilings. The interior also boasts 14 gilded crosses and is adorned with unique stained glass paintings of saints. 

The cathedral is not only a stunning example of Gothic architecture but also a source of pride for the Catholics in Hai Phong Vietnam. Whether you are religious or not, this site offers a perfect opportunity to learn more about the local culture.

Visiting this cathedral is among the top things to do in Hai Phong Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.9. Dau Island

Located about 20 kilometers away from Hai Phong’s city center, Dau Island is often described as a gem floating in the sea. It is home to a wide range of vegetation and a cluster of ancient banyan trees that are from 400 to 700 years old. The island also features the sacred Nam Hai Than Vuong Temple, where fishermen often pray for safety before heading out to sea. At the highest point of the island stands Hon Dau Lighthouse, one of Vietnam’s five most famous lighthouses with a history spanning over 100 years.

To reach Dau Island, you need to take a boat from Nam Do Son Tourist Wharf at Hon Dau International Tourist Area. The journey to the island takes approximately 15 minutes.

Dau Island is a floating gem in Hai Phong Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Check out the 15 best things to do in Hai Phong for first-timers! 

3. When is the best time to visit Hai Phong Vietnam?

Hai Phong Vietnam is an attractive destination year-round, with Hai Phong weather in each season offering unique experiences. In winter, you can indulge in the city’s hot and flavorful street food. Summer is perfect for beach trips and admiring the blooming flame trees that line the streets. Autumn brings pleasant weather with refreshing breezes, while spring offers warm temperatures with a slight chill.

Additionally, visiting Hai Phong during its major festivals adds a vibrant cultural touch to your trip:

• The Red Flamboyant Flower Festival occurs in May.
• The Minh The Festival takes place on the 14th day of the first lunar month.
• The Le Chan Female General Festival is held from the 7th to the 9th day of the second lunar month.
• The Cat Ba Fishing Village Festival occurs on March 31st.
• The Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival takes place on August 9th.
• The Dau Island Festival is celebrated from the 1st to the 10th day of the second lunar month.

4. How to get there?

There are several transportation options available from Hanoi to Hai Phong:

• By road: The most convenient route is via the Hanoi-Hai Phong Expressway, which takes about 1.5 hours. If traveling by bus, you can choose operators like Hoang Long and Anh Huy, with fares ranging from 120,000 to 135,000 VND. For a more comfortable experience, you can opt for a limousine bus service such as Hai Phong Travel, which also offers pick-up and drop-off within the city center. The fare for this service is between 230,000 and 250,000 VND.
• By train: You can choose from various seating options available, including hard seats and soft seats, with prices ranging from 100,000 to 130,000 VND.

In case you are from Ho Chi Minh City, you can fly with Bamboo Airways, Vietnam Airlines, or Vietjet Air to Hai Phong. Alternatively, you can fly to Hanoi first, then travel to Hai Phong by road.

The weather in Hai Phong Vietnam offers unique experiences throughout the four seasons (Source: Collected)

5. Extra guide for exploring Hai Phong Vietnam

5.1. Where to stay?

There are many hotels in Hai Phong Vietnam available for travelers. If you prefer luxurious accommodations, you may consider high-end hotels in Hai Phong’s city center, with room rates ranging from 1.2 million to 2.5 million VND per night. Additionally, Hai Phong offers upscale seaside resorts, primarily in Cat Ba, with average prices from 1.5 million to 2 million VND per night. Staying overnight on a cruise in Lan Ha Bay is another unique option, costing from 3 million to 6 million VND per person per night.

For those seeking more affordable accommodations, you can consider homestays, which typically cost around 250,000 VND per night.

5.2. What to eat?

Hai Phong Vietnam is renowned for its street food scene, attracting visitors eager to savor its culinary delights. Highlights include banh beo (water fern cake), banh da cua (crab noodle soup), banh mi cay (spicy baguette), bun ca cay (spicy fish noodle soup), bun cha nem cua be (grilled pork with vermicelli and crab spring rolls), oc (snails), tra cuc (chrysanthemum tea), and dua dam (coconut dessert drink).

For an unforgettable dining experience, you should not miss out on the bun cha nem cua be at 92 Tran Nhat Duat or 32 Phan Boi Chau, the banh beo at 41 Le Dai Hanh or 147 Hang Kenh, and the spicy baguette at 28 Dinh Tien Hoang or 57 Le Loi. On your Hai Phong food tour, don’t forget to enjoy the flavorful snails at 263 Lach Tray Alley.

Taking a food tour around Hai Phong Vietnam is a must (Source: Collected)

5.3. What to buy as souvenirs?

When exploring Hai Phong Vietnam, you will discover a variety of unique souvenirs to bring back home. Here are some popular options to consider:

• Nem cua be: Nem cua be combines the bounty of the sea with crab meat, shrimp, wood ear mushrooms, eggs, and mung bean sprouts. Served with fresh vermicelli, herbs, and a delectable dipping sauce, it is a truly enticing treat.
• Spicy baguette: A specialty of Hai Phong, spicy baguettes are crispy baguettes spread with pate and enjoyed with spicy chili sauce. This snack is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Nem chua An Tho: Nem chua An Tho from Hai Phong is wrapped in large portions then fermented. Once it turns red, it is ready to be chilled and enjoyed.
• Red rice paper: Brown in color, soft, and chewy, red rice paper can be used to make dishes such as mixed rice paper rolls and wet rice paper cakes, which can be filled with various toppings.
• Dried squid from Cat Ba: Another distinctive seafood specialty of Hai Phong, the dried squid from Cat Ba undergoes careful processing and drying to preserve its freshness and flavor.

Hai Phong Vietnam entices travelers with its unique local souvenirs (Source: Collected)

Hai Phong Vietnam, with its diverse attractions, is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler. From the tranquil beaches of Do Son to the historical charm of Du Hang Pagoda and the modern leisure of Vinpearl Horse Academy Vu Yen, there is no shortage of things to see and do. So, pack your bags and get ready for a journey filled with cherished memories in this city!

Vietnam is a captivating destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. While Hai Phong is a delightful coastal city worth exploring, the country boasts numerous other gems that should not be missed out on. From the vibrant capital city of Hanoi to the idyllic beaches of Phu Quoc and Nha Trang, from the charming ancient town of Hoi An to the breathtaking seascapes of Ha Long, each locale in Vietnam presents its own unique charm.

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