Things To Do
in Phú Thọ
Phú Thọ is a northern Vietnamese province famed as the cradle of Vietnamese civilization and the homeland of the Hung Kings. Lush rivers, expansive rice fields, and tranquil villages define its landscape. The province blends ancient heritage with rural charm, offering cultural sites, traditional crafts, and scenic viewpoints.
It's a gateway for travelers seeking history, nature, and authentic northern Vietnamese hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your morning with a scenic drive from Viet Tri city to the revered Temple of the Hung Kings complex. Ascend the stone stairway through lush pines, pausing at the Gate of the First Kings to admire panoramic forested valleys. Join local worshippers in offering incense and learn ancient legends from a resident guide.
Sample fragrant rice vermicelli and grilled pork at a street stall near the sanctuary entrance. Explore the second temple courtyard and marvel at ornate dragon carvings that date back centuries. Wander along the hillside paths to discover hidden shrines and enjoy the cool mountain breeze.
Stroll the Da River promenade as lanterns light up the water’s edge and local vendors set out their night wares. Sip on sugarcane juice and try bánh cuốn while watching families gather for an evening outing. Return to your riverside hotel for a restful night’s sleep under the hum of cicadas.
Depart before sunrise for Xuan Son National Park and meet your park ranger at the visitor center. Embark on a guided trek through primary rainforest, listening for endemic birds and scanning the canopy for playful gibbons. Reach the first scenic overlook and absorb sweeping views of karst hills rising above emerald valleys.
Settle by the Do Stream waterfall for a picnic lunch of bánh mì and fresh tropical fruit. Descend into Mot Cave to explore its hidden chambers and admire dramatic limestone formations sculpted over millennia. Continue along an elevated boardwalk that winds through ferns and delicate orchids.
Camp beneath a blanket of stars at the park’s eco-lodge campsite and gather around a crackling fire. Share stories over a traditional folk music performance by local villagers. Drift to sleep in your tent to the gentle chorus of night insects.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🧺Local market groceries | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage as the home of the Hung Kings
- Peaceful rural landscapes and authentic northern Vietnamese experiences
- Affordability and easy access from Hanoi
- Relatively uncrowded attractions compared with bigger cities
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Language barriers may challenge communication in rural spots
- Less developed transport links to remote sites compared with major hubs
- Hot, humid summers can be uncomfortable for visitors
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
- "Bạn có thể giúp tôi chỉ đường đến ... không?" - Could you help me find my way to ...?
- "Tôi là du khách" - I am a tourist
- "Bạn nói tiếng Anh được không?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Phú Thọ
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic terraces and forested hills surrounding the temple precinct, especially photogenic at sunrise.
Wide river views, boats, and golden hour sunsets along the Da River.
Candid street life, colorful markets, and old colonial-era architecture.
Waterfront cafés with reflections on the water for moody portraits.
Food in Phú Thọ
Phú Thọ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Purple sticky rice a regional specialty, often served with sesame and fried shallots; commonly found in markets and street stalls.
Must-Try!
River fish braised slowly in a clay pot with tomatoes and aromatics; a comforting staple in local eateries.
A bamboo shoot soup with bones and herbs; a common, nourishing dish in northern households and restaurants.
Fresh river fish grilled with dill, garlic, and local greens; best enjoyed at riverside stalls or restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling local market offering fresh produce, herbs, and ready-to-eat bites from dawn.
Temporary stalls along the river offering grilled fish and snacks with river views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and avoid loud behavior in temples.
A friendly smile and a polite greeting go a long way; addressing elders with 'thưa' is respectful.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; avoid blocking traffic and maintain personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Phú Thọ
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; round up or leave small tips in more touristy spots.
Cash in VND is widely accepted; many places now accept cards and mobile wallets like Momo, ZaloPay, or VinID; small merchants may only take cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon showers; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.
Pleasant and mild with clear skies; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool and misty with occasional drizzle; bring a light jacket and enjoy quieter attractions.
Lush greenery and fresh produce; expect showers and comfortable walking weather.
Phú Thọ at Night
Hiking in Phú Thọ
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes with river views and farmland scenery, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Moderate hikes through forested hills and village paths with opportunities to observe rural life.
Airports
How to reach Phú Thọ by plane.
Major gateway to Hanoi; about 60-80 km from central Phú Thọ; frequent domestic and international flights.
A small regional airstrip that has been discussed for development; as of now not a major international hub; plan accordingly if you see flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group, forming the bulk of residents.
Smaller communities with distinct languages and cultural customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and school leagues widely attended.
Common in community centers and sports halls.
Occasionally performed at temples and cultural centers during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phú Thọ.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most eateries; ask for rau củ và đậu hũ (vegetables and tofu) and request no fish sauce if needed.