Things To Do
in Tân Phong
Tan Phong is a quiet suburban area on Hanoi's outskirts where rural villages meet growing residential pockets. Canals and green fields thread through the landscape, offering a slower pace than the city core. Local markets, pagodas, and family-run eateries give visitors a window into everyday northern Vietnamese life.
While peaceful, Tan Phong is well connected by roads to Hanoi’s cultural sites and bustling neighborhoods.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the lush green landscapes of Tân Phong. Enjoy the sights of local farmers tending to their rice paddies and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere. Capture beautiful photographs of the vibrant village life as you greet friendly locals along the way.
Visit local workshops to learn about traditional crafts such as weaving and pottery. Engage with artisans and even try your hand at creating your own unique piece. Savor a homemade lunch prepared by a local family, featuring authentic Vietnamese dishes that highlight the region's flavors.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the riverside to watch the colors change over the water. Enjoy a traditional dinner, sampling local specialties while listening to folk music performed by talented local artists. Stroll through the village under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of rural life.
Begin the day with a cooking class where you learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from the local market. Explore the vibrant market stalls and interact with vendors as you gather what you need for the class. Experience the joy of creating a meal that reflects the culinary heritage of the region.
Head to a nearby historical site to delve into the rich history of Tân Phong. Engage in guided tours that share stories and legends from the past, bringing the area’s culture to life. Take the opportunity to visit local museums dedicated to preserving the traditions of the village.
Join a community dinner where you enjoy the dishes you prepared earlier alongside friendly locals. This shared meal fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and connection with the people of Tân Phong. End the evening with a storytelling session around a fire, listening to tales passed down through generations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Local coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🍜Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🚌Public transit pass or rides | $0.5-3 per ride |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quieter, more authentic feel than central Hanoi
- Strong local markets and approachable street food
- Limited nightlife within Tan Phong itself
- Public transport options are fewer than in the city center
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Ở đây có món chay không?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes here?
- "Tôi muốn dùng bằng tiếng Anh" - I would like to order in English
- "Giúp tôi với" - Help me
Places to Visit in Tân Phong
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light over narrow canals with reflected sky colors and traditional homes lining the banks.
Photogenic courtyard scenes with tiled roofs, hanging lanterns, and locals going about daily tasks.
Quiet temple precincts with ornate woodwork, incense smoke, and curious wildlife around the grounds.
Low-key tea houses along the river provide candid portraits of locals and seasonal flora with water reflections.
Food in Tân Phong
Tân Phong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The classic beef noodle soup with a clear, aromatic broth, rice noodles, and herbs. Look for beef tendon and rare slices in reputable Hanoi-area stall or restaurant counts.
Must-Try!
Grilled pork patties and strips served with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and a dipping sauce; a staple of Hanoi street food.
Turmeric fish sautéed with dill and served with rice noodles and herbs; a fragrant, fish-forward specialty.
Crisp baguette filled with pork, pate, fresh herbs, pickles, and chili—easy to find from street stalls and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh produce, herbs, seafood, and ready-to-eat bites; great for sampling daily flavors and observing local life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite verbal greeting with a gentle nod or handshake; address people with appropriate titles and family names where possible.
Remove shoes when entering homes and temples; dress modestly in religious sites and when visiting rural communities.
Public displays of affection are less common; speak softly in crowded or sacred spaces; avoid loud disputes in public.
Show interest in local life and avoid sensitive political topics; use light humor and patience when navigating busy markets.
Safety
Tipping in Tân Phong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in nicer restaurants, at larger hotels, and for guided tours. A small tip (5-10%) is common if service was good.
Cash remains widely used, especially at markets and small eateries. Cards are accepted at many urban restaurants and hotels; mobile payments (e.g., MoMo, ZaloPay) are increasingly common in Hanoi-area areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with lush greenery; great for outdoor strolls and market visits. Occasional showers keep temperatures comfortable.
Hot and humid with a pronounced rainy season; carry water, wear breathable fabrics, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant and drier; comfortable conditions for walking and photography; harvest festivals may appear in rural areas.
Cool to chilly with possible morning fog; days are shorter, but skies can be clear and crisp—great for city views.
Tân Phong at Night
Hiking in Tân Phong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with pine and evergreen trees, offering panoramic views and waterfall scenery; suitable for a day hike from Hanoi.
Cool, forested mountains with winding paths and viewpoints; a popular weekend escape from the city.
Airports
How to reach Tân Phong by plane.
Main international airport serving Hanoi; about a 30-40 km drive from central Hanoi and the Tan Phong area, with taxis and shuttle options available.
Smaller international airport serving Hai Phong; farther from Tan Phong but reachable by road for day trips or longer itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who work in Hanoi but live in the suburbs, attracted by space and local life.
Long-standing rural communities engaged in agriculture and small-scale crafts.
People who commute to Hanoi for study or work, shaping the local culture with growing cafes and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, communities, and local clubs; informal pickup games are common in parks and streets.
Popular in community centers and homes; easy to organize with friends and neighbors.
Common in morning gatherings at parks and temple grounds; often part of local cultural practice.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tân Phong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made vegetarian by omitting meat and fish sauce. Look for options labeled chay or ask for rau và đậu (vegetables and tofu). Request no nước mắm (fish sauce) and request nước chấm chay (vegetarian dipping sauce) when dining.