Haiphong

Day Trips

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.

Begin your day at the Hai Phong Museum, where you can learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage through fascinating exhibits. Spend time exploring the various artifacts, photographs, and artworks that tell the story of the region. After absorbing the museum's offerings, take a walk through the nearby parks to enjoy the fresh air.

In the afternoon, visit the Navy Museum to gain insight into Vietnam's naval history and its significance to the country. The museum features various exhibits, including models of ships and historical memorabilia. For lunch, savor local dishes at a nearby eatery, sampling specialties that reflect the region's culinary delights.

As the sun sets, indulge in a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a restaurant known for its authentic flavors. After your meal, head to Lạch Tray Stadium to catch a local football match, where you can experience the passion of Vietnamese sports culture. Conclude your evening with a walk along the riverbank, enjoying the views of the city lights.

Embark on a scenic drive to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning karst landscapes and waterways. Take a tranquil boat ride through the picturesque caves and lush greenery, immersing yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you glide through the water, keeping an eye out for local wildlife.

After your boat ride, visit the Trang An Eco-Tourism Area for a leisurely hike through its scenic trails. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional dishes that highlight the region's flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden caves and temples that add to the area’s mystical charm.

Return to Haiphong in the evening and enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your nature-filled day. Take a leisurely stroll through the city, perhaps stopping for some dessert at a popular local café. Engage with friendly locals to learn more about their lives and traditions.

Head to Do Son Beach early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise over the South China Sea, a breathtaking spectacle. Spend some time walking along the sandy shores, breathing in the fresh sea air and collecting shells. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of banh mi or xoi at a beachside stall to fuel your day of adventure.

Take part in various water sports available at Do Son, such as jet skiing or parasailing, for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Afterward, relax on the beach, soaking up the sun or enjoying a refreshing swim. For lunch, try local seafood delicacies at a nearby restaurant, where the ocean's bounty is freshly prepared.

As the day winds down, enjoy a beachside barbecue with fresh seafood grilled to perfection. Watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors while enjoying the sound of waves crashing. Cap off your day with a beach bonfire, mingling with fellow travelers and locals under the stars.

Start your day by immersing yourself in the local culture at the Le Chan Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts, engaging with friendly vendors. Don't miss the chance to try some street food snacks, tasting the local flavors firsthand.

After exploring the market, head to the nearby Dong Hai Market to experience a different side of local life, focusing on textiles and clothing. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes you discovered in the market. Spend the afternoon visiting local artisans to see traditional crafts being made, gaining insight into the skills passed down through generations.

In the evening, explore the bustling nightlife at the markets, where food stalls come alive with the delicious aromas of grilled meats and fresh vegetables. Sit down for dinner at a popular street food stall, enjoying the lively atmosphere around you. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, soaking in the vibrant energy of the city at night.

Visit the Battleship No. 1 Museum to learn about the maritime history of Vietnam and its significance during the war. Explore the exhibits, including a preserved naval ship that tells the story of the country’s naval battles. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and engineering involved in creating such an iconic vessel.

After the museum, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where you can try some local specialties. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful parks and gardens around the area, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Engage with local families enjoying their day out, experiencing the community spirit of Haiphong.

As the sun sets, enjoy a riverside dinner at a restaurant with views of the water, where fresh seafood is the highlight of the menu. After dinner, take a scenic boat ride along the river to see the city illuminated at night. Conclude your day with a visit to a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat.

Start your culinary journey with a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you'll learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. Engage with your instructor, who will share the secrets of balancing flavors and selecting fresh ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious breakfast made by your own hands.

After your cooking class, visit a local food market to explore the ingredients you learned about and discover new ones. Spend your afternoon tasting various street foods, such as seafood pancakes and banh xeo, as you wander through the bustling streets. Take notes on your favorite flavors and dishes to recreate them later.

For dinner, dine at a well-known restaurant that specializes in Haiphong cuisine, trying dishes like grilled squid and fried rice. Afterward, join a food tour that takes you to hidden gems around the city, where you can taste local delicacies. Engage with fellow food lovers and share your culinary experiences as you explore the city's vibrant food scene.

Kick off your day with a visit to Hai Phong Beach, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the calming sound of the waves. Treat yourself to breakfast at a beachside café, indulging in fresh fruits and pastries.

Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or enjoying a refreshing swim in the ocean. You can also explore nearby attractions, such as the local fishing village, to experience the daily lives of the fishermen. For lunch, enjoy a beach picnic with snacks from a local vendor, savoring the flavors of the sea.

As the day comes to a close, enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, watching the sunset over the horizon. After your meal, relax by the water with a cool drink, taking in the beautiful evening vibes. End your day with a stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle waves and feeling the soft sand beneath your feet.