Northern Vietnam is known as a land of rugged mountains, cascading rice terraces, and vibrant cities steeped in history and cultural diversity.
Traveling across Northern Vietnam is an exploration of a region with stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural history, and friendly locals. Northern Vietnam offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, are a culture vulture, or just want to unwind. Let’s go through this comprehensive travel guide to help you make the most of your vacation as there is so much to see and do!
Top 4 must-visit locations of Northern Vietnam
Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a must-see destination for any traveler interested in experiencing the rich history and culture of Southeast Asia. The city is known for its ancient architecture, delectable cuisine, and picturesque natural landscapes.
Hanoi’s history dates back over a thousand years, and it is home to many well-preserved historical sites and cultural landmarks. Among these are the Temple of Literature, a Confucian temple and former university that dates back to the 11th century, and the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with traditional shophouses and street food vendors.
Hanoi is also known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, with local specialities like Pho, Bun Cha, and Banh Mi attracting foodies from all over the world. The city’s bustling street markets and food stalls offer a unique opportunity to sample authentic Vietnamese dishes and learn about the country’s culinary traditions.
Hanoi is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking to explore the culture, history, and natural beauty of Vietnam.
Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is a stunning province in northern Vietnam, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Located just a few hours’ drive from Hanoi, Ninh Binh offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rural landscapes and the traditional way of life.
The province is home to a number of impressive natural wonders, including the famous Tam Coc – Bich Dong cave complex, which features a series of limestone caves and cliffs that can be explored by boat. Visitors can also take a scenic boat ride along the peaceful Ngo Dong River, passing by rice paddies and limestone karst formations.
Ninh Binh is also steeped in history, with a number of ancient temples and pagodas that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. One of the most impressive of these is the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, which features a massive statue of Buddha and a stunning collection of ornate temples and shrines.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Ninh Binh offers a tranquil and peaceful retreat. The province is dotted with small villages and hamlets, where visitors can experience traditional Vietnamese life and sample local delicacies like goat meat and fish sauce.
Ha Giang
Ha Giang, located in the far north of Vietnam, is a stunning mountainous province known for its rugged natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. The region is home to a number of ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong, Tay, and Dao, each with their own distinctive traditions and customs.
Ha Giang’s landscapes are among the most dramatic and spectacular in all of Vietnam, featuring towering peaks, deep valleys, and winding roads that offer stunning views at every turn. Witness the untamed beauty of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, which has been a well-known World Heritage issued by UNESCO that boasts a variety of unique geological formations, sit on a boat on the Nho Que river to immerse in the natural beauty of Tu San Abyss Alley, visit Yen Minh pine forest – situated on a hillside and boasts towering pine trees that provide a cool, shaded canopy for visitors to enjoy or take a scenic motorbike ride along the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most stunning mountains passes in Southeast Asia.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ha Giang is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous traditional festivals and ceremonies throughout the year. Visitors can learn about the region’s unique customs and traditions by visiting local villages and attending events like the Khau Vai Love Market, where young people from different ethnic groups gather to find love and companionship.
Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is a hidden gem located in the south of Halong Bay in Vietnam, offering a peaceful and tranquil alternative to the often crowded and touristy Halong Bay. The bay features over 300 karst limestone islands, many of which are uninhabited and untouched, making it an idyllic destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
The waters of Lan Ha Bay are crystal clear, providing excellent conditions for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. Visitors can explore the hidden lagoons, caves, and beaches of the bay or simply relax on the deck of a traditional junk boat while admiring the stunning scenery.
One of the unique aspects of Lan Ha Bay is the presence of floating fishing villages, where local residents have lived for generations. Visitors can learn about the traditional way of life in these villages, including how they cultivate oysters and other seafood, and sample fresh seafood dishes that are unique to the region.
How to get to these locations
In Vietnam, there are multiple choices for tourists to get from one to another location. Let’s dicover it with Viland Travel!
Motorbike
Transportation by motorbike in Northern Vietnam is an exhilarating way to explore the region’s rugged landscapes and vibrant culture. With its winding mountain roads and picturesque scenery, Northern Vietnam is a popular destination for motorbike enthusiasts.
Motorbikes are popular because they can give to the riders a lot of freedom and the feeling of adventure when riding it all over the town. From the winding roads of Ha Giang to the bustling streets of Hanoi, a motorbike allows travelers to experience the sights, sounds and smells of Vietnam up close and personal. While it can be a challenging and sometimes risky way to travel, motorbiking in Northern Vietnam is a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Train
Transportation by train in Northern Vietnam offers a comfortable and convenient way to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Travelers can enjoy scenic views and interact with friendly locals along the way.
Train travel is an eco-friendly and sustainable way to explore Northern Vietnam, with routes connecting popular destinations like Hanoi, Sapa, and Halong Bay. Whether traveling solo or with a group, a train journey through Northern Vietnam provides a unique and memorable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Cruise
Transportation by cruise in Northern Vietnam is a luxurious and scenic way to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a variety of routes and experiences on board comfortable and well-equipped cruise ships.
Cruises offer a unique perspective on Northern Vietnam’s breathtaking scenery, allowing travelers to witness the stunning sunsets and sunrises, explore hidden caves and beaches, and sample delicious local cuisine. Whether traveling with a partner or a group, a cruise through Northern Vietnam is a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the region’s beauty in style.
Final thoughts
From the breathtaking landscapes of Ninh Binh and Ha Giang to the bustling cities of Hanoi and Lan Ha Bay’s tranquility, Northern Vietnam offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Don’t know how to make the most of your trip within just a short amount of time? Look no further because Viland Travel has exactly what you’re looking for! With our 8-day 7-night Tour: Exploring the Breathtaking Landscapes in Northern Vietnam, you can experience the best of Northern Vietnam in just one tour. You’ll have the chance to visit all the must-see destinations while also immersing yourself in the local culture and cuisine. Our knowledgeable guides will take you off the beaten path to explore hidden gems and experience the region’s unique customs and traditions. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, our tour provides a hassle-free and unforgettable adventure through Northern Vietnam.
Book now and let Viland Travel create an unforgettable experience for you!
