Things To Do
in Haiphong
Haiphong is a bustling northern Vietnamese port city known for its seafood, canal-lined streets, and French colonial influences. It serves as a gateway to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay, offering a mix of markets, pagodas, and waterfront vistas. The city has a relaxed tempo compared with Hanoi, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Expect friendly locals, lively seafood shacks, and a growing scene of cafes and cultural venues along its rivers and harbor.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hai Phong Opera House, an architectural gem dating back to the French colonial era. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the bustling streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and local life. Don't forget to grab some traditional Vietnamese coffee at a nearby café to kickstart your morning.
In the afternoon, head to the Du Hang Pagoda, a serene spot that offers insight into local Buddhist practices. Spend some time exploring the nearby Hang Kenh Communal House, which is rich in cultural heritage and history. Afterward, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, sampling dishes such as bun cha or pho.
As night falls, take a relaxing walk along the Hoang Van Thu Street, where you can witness the city transform under the glow of streetlights. Dine at a seafood restaurant near the port, where fresh catches of the day are served with local flavors. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar for live music, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Set off early for a day trip to Cat Ba Island, taking a scenic boat ride through the stunning Lan Ha Bay. Once you arrive, head to Cat Ba National Park for a refreshing hike among lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Ngu Lam Peak, which is the perfect backdrop for some memorable photos.
After your hike, relax on the pristine beaches of Cat Ba, where you can soak up the sun or swim in the clear waters. For lunch, savor fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, enjoying the ocean breeze. You can also explore the nearby fishing villages to experience the local culture and lifestyle.
Return to Haiphong in the evening and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling some traditional northern Vietnamese cuisine. Take a stroll around the city center to appreciate its charm at night, with lights reflecting off the water. End your day with a visit to a local coffee shop to unwind and reflect on your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-5 km) | $2-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🍺Local beer or street snack | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible from Hanoi with relatively affordable travel
- Fantastic seafood and harbor atmosphere
- Gateway to Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay for superb scenery
- Generally friendly locals and strong street food culture
- Smaller expat scene compared to bigger Vietnamese cities
- Hot and humid summers can be challenging
- Traffic can be busy in peak hours
- Some areas are still developing in terms of tourist infrastructure
- "Xin chao" - Hello
- "Cam on" - Thank you
- "Xin vui long" - Please
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Toilet ở đâu?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Haiphong
Visit one of these nice places.
A Gothic-inspired cathedral with towering spires and a serene square, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.
Historic temple complex with red lacquer and tranquil courtyards, perfect for architectural shots.
A scenic urban lake with boats and reflections, ideal for golden hour photography.
A hillside fortress offering panoramic views over Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay.
Limestone karst landscapes and forest trails provide dramatic natural backdrops.
Food in Haiphong
Haiphong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish noodle soup featuring local river fish in a tomato-based broth; a staple across the city.
Must-Try!
Crispy crab cakes served with herbs and a light dipping sauce, a must-try at local markets.
Crisp crab spring rolls eaten with greens and herbs, a popular snack in seafood districts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market with fresh seafood, herbs, noodles, and everyday Vietnamese staples.
Late-night stalls offering bun oc, banh mi, and a variety of seafood bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and remove shoes when visiting pagodas and temples.
A handshake with a light touch on the forearm is common; a nod is common when meeting elders; use Vietnamese phrases like Xin chao.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in residential areas.
Keep voice respectful in religious sites and avoid loud displays of affection in public.
Safety
Tipping in Haiphong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service, especially for tour guides and hotel staff, but not compulsory.
Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely accepted; many hotels and upscale restaurants accept cards; some street vendors prefer cash; small vendors may be cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with a heavy June to August rain cycle; frequent thunderstorms and occasional typhoons. Hydration and rain gear are essential.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; generally good for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to mild temperatures with cooler evenings; rainfall is less frequent but possible; layers recommended.
Mild and comfortable with blooming landscapes; a great time for hiking and market visits.
Haiphong at Night
Hiking in Haiphong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A ridge trail offering sweeping views over Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay; suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Haiphong by plane.
Haiphong's own airport serving domestic flights and some international routes; quick access to the city center.
Main international gateway to Hanoi; can be used in combination with train or road transfers to Haiphong.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Vietnamese with a strong maritime and commercial culture; diverse age groups.
Smaller but growing pockets of expats and travelers, especially around Cat Ba access points and waterfront areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played; local matches can be observed in city stadiums.
Popular around Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay with sea kayaking and small boat tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haiphong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options exist at temples or veggie dishes in Vietnamese cuisine; ask for chay or keep to vegetable options; avoid fish sauce-based dishes; at markets, request no anchovies.