Things To Do
in Thanh Hóa
Thanh Hóa is a coastal province in north-central Vietnam known for its long beaches, rugged karst scenery, and a rich tapestry of history and culture. The provincial capital Thanh Hóa City serves as the region’s urban hub and gateway to the coast and countryside. Visitors can explore UNESCO-worthy citadels, hillside villages, and expansive beaches while sampling fresh seafood and hillside coffee.
With a blend of natural beauty and historic sites, Thanh Hóa offers a varied, authentic Vietnamese experience away from the more touristy hotspots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the ancient Citadel of Thanh Hóa, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through its impressive walls and immerse yourself in the rich history that surrounds you. Don't forget to capture stunning photos of the intricate architecture and the lush greenery that envelops the area.
After a morning of exploration, head to the Ho Citadel Museum to delve deeper into the region's history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes such as 'Nem chua' and 'Bánh cuốn'. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Lam Kinh historical site, the former capital of the Later Le Dynasty, and marvel at its ancient temples and pagodas.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the Hoang Hoa River, where you can enjoy the tranquil views. Treat yourself to dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood dishes native to Thanh Hóa. End the evening by visiting the night market to browse local crafts and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a trip to Sam Son Beach, known for its golden sands and clear blue waters. Engage in a refreshing swim or simply relax on the beach, soaking up the sun as you listen to the soothing sounds of the waves. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can savor local specialties.
In the afternoon, participate in various water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing, fueling your adrenaline rush. Alternatively, take a scenic walk along the coastline, admiring the stunning views of the ocean and nearby mountains. Stop for lunch at a local seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes caught fresh from the sea.
As evening approaches, unwind with a beachside barbecue, indulging in grilled seafood and local delicacies. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Sam Son, where beach bars and music create a lively atmosphere. Wind down by watching the sunset over the horizon, painting the sky with breathtaking colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍜Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal and mountain scenery within one province
- Authentic, less-crowded destinations with good value
- Limited nightlife and some areas require highway travel between spots
- Weather can be variable; typhoon season can disrupt plans
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Ở đây có món đặc sản gì?" - What local specialties are here?
- "Tôi không ăn thịt" - I do not eat meat
Places to Visit in Thanh Hóa
Visit one of these nice places.
Long golden sands and dramatic sunrise over the Gulf of Tonkin provide classic coastal photography opportunities.
Ancient stone walls and moats offer atmospheric shots, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Terraced rice fields, bamboo stilt houses, and forested hills deliver sweeping landscape and portrait photography.
Lakes, mangrove edges, and forest trails create serene wildlife and nature photography scenes.
Food in Thanh Hóa
Thanh Hóa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty crab-based noodle soup with thick rice noodles, a savory broth, and vegetables; a regional specialty best sampled at coastal markets.
Must-Try!
Fermented pork rolls with a tangy, garlicky kick, often served with fresh herbs, chilies, and sliced onions.
Shrimp paste used as a dip or condiment, offering a strong, salty-sweet flavor that pairs with steamed rice and vegetables.
Grilled or steamed fish, prawns, and shellfish caught that day, often prepared with local herbs and lime for a bright finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy hub to sample fresh seafood, herbs, dried fish, and quick street bites; great for discovering daily specialties.
An array of seaside snacks and grilled seafood stalls along the promenade, especially lively at sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple “Xin chào” (Hello) with a nod or light handshake is common; address elders with respect and use polite language.
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and avoid pointing feet toward altars or sacred objects.
Respect personal space, avoid loud displays of anger, and ask permission before photography of people or inside homes.
Safety
Tipping in Thanh Hóa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not compulsory but appreciated for good service in tourist centers; small tips (1–5 USD) are common in better hotels and tourist-focused venues.
Cash (Vietnamese đồng) is widely accepted; larger hotels and some upscale restaurants may accept cards or mobile wallets (MoMo, ZaloPay).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for city strolling and village photography. Occasional light rain.
Hot and humid with sunny days; perfect for beach time and coastal photography. Typhoon risk peaks in Aug–Sep; stay flexible.
Cooling temperatures with clearer skies; great trekking weather in Pu Luong and comfortable city visits.
Cool to mild days; comfortable for sightseeing, temple visits, and inland photography; occasional cool mornings.
Thanh Hóa at Night
Hiking in Thanh Hóa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking and trekking area offering terraced rice fields, forest trails, and hillside villages.
Forest trails and lakefront paths suitable for gentle hikes and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Thanh Hóa by plane.
Domestic and regional flights; a convenient gateway to Thanh Hóa and the Pu Luong area.
A larger airport nearby in neighboring Nghe An Province with connections to major Vietnamese hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the region, with minority communities in mountainous pockets.
Small communities in higher elevations and remote villages, contributing to cultural diversity in Pu Luong and surrounding areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at schools and community leagues; local games and events draw community participation.
Coastal communities engage in fishing, boating, and occasional water-based recreation for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thanh Hóa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Vietnamese dishes are herb- and vegetable-forward; request no fish sauce or meat stock, and look for vegetable noodle or tofu dishes at markets and restaurants.