cities to visit north vietnam

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Top must-visit places in North Vietnam

North Vietnam takes its pride of Hanoi’s charming capital, majestic mountain ranges, mist-entwined peaks, lush valleys, centuries-old rice terraces, diverse ethnic groups and turquoise stunning islands. No matter where you go, you will definitely find something special here. Let’s plan a trip with Vietnam Travel’s list of top must-visit places in North Vietnam.

Table of Contents

2. Ninh Binh

3. mai chau, 5. ha giang, 6. cao bang – ban gioc waterfall, 7. halong bay, 8. cat ba island.

It is undoubtedly that Hanoi is definitely a must-visit place in North Vietnam. Its well-preserved French colonial buildings, ancient oriental pagodas, historic temples, unique museums, peaceful lakes and a lot of other amazing spots will leave you enchanted. This capital city is a perfect place to explore on foot or take a cyclo to stroll through hidden alleyways and bustling markets of Hanoi’s charming Old Quarter, try local specialties and sample delicious Vietnamese cuisine just like the way the locals do. Hanoi is an eclectic mix that offers something for everyone. Be sure to allow a minimum of 2 or 3 days to discover the hidden beauty of Hanoi and visit all key sites here such as the Ho Chi Minh Complex , the Presidential Palace, the nearby One Pillar Pagoda , the Temple of Literature – the 1st university of Vietnam, West Lake, the sedate Tran Quoc Pagoda , Quan Thanh Temple …

Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square

Read more: Top Hanoi Attractions

Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land”, Ninh Binh is another worth-visiting place in North Vietnam. Only 2 hours driving from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is an ideal option for a day trip if you do not have much time. Any trip to Ninh Binh should certainly include a boat trip in Trang An or Tam Coc to admire limestone formations, lush foliage and relaxing landscapes along peaceful river waterways through a series of dark grottoes. It takes about 2 hours. Other than that, you can visit some highlights in Ninh Binh such as Bai Dinh Pagoda – the largest pagoda in Vietnam, Bich Dong Pagoda , Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Phat Diem Cathedral, Mua Cave, and Cuc Phuong National Park .

Ngo Dong River: The beautiful river in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh

Read more: Things to do in Ninh Binh

With a close proximity to Hanoi, Mai Chau is a wonderful place to get away the bustling city life and experience the tranquility of the mountainous village. You can choose to relax at Lac or Poong Cong villages, rent a cycle to ride around the rural villages, through rice paddies and you find your own peaceful moments. Besides, this beautiful mountainous area with thick jungle, bamboo groves, tea plantations and waterfalls lends itself to fantastic walks and short treks to remote ethnic villages such as Hang Kia, Pa Co…

Green Rice FIeld in Mai Chau

White and Black Thai people are the biggest ethnic groups in this region who build and live in wooden stilt houses. It is highly recommended to spend at least one night at stilt house homestay to gain an insight into the local customs and culture. You have chance to interact with local people, join dinner with the host and enjoy traditional dance in the evening.

Sapa makes a statement with the surrounding mountains, the beautiful terraced rice fields as well as the richness of cultural diversity with many ethnic minorities. It is no better than taking a guided hike through yawning valleys decorated with terraced rice fields and pass through remote hill tribe villages like Cat Cat, Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, Ta Giang Phinh… Ethnic local market is also an ideal place to experience the daily life and familiarize yourself with the cultures of the H’mong, Dzao and Dzay people who populate the region. You can spend time to visit Bac Ha market on Sunday, Coc Ly market on Tuesday, Can Cau market on Saturday… with a variety of goods from local fruits, vegetables, honey and corn wine to colorful fabrics, clothes and embroidered items, horses, cows and buffalo.

Read more: Sapa Attractions

Ha Giang is a mountainous province in northeastern Vietnam, about 300km from Hanoi. It shares a 270km long border with Yunnan province of southern China, and thus is known as Vietnam’s final frontier. Nearly 90% of the population in Ha Giang is ethnic minorities who create a unique and rich cultural heritage of the area. Traditional practices and habits of these ethnic groups are very diverse and interesting helping attracts many travelers who are keen on exploring these unique aspects.

Ha Giang is best explored as a road trip on two wheels, soaking up the majesty of the landscape and the atmosphere of the remote towns and minority villages. The trip from Yen Minh to Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark , then across Ma Pi Leng Pass , one of 4 great passes in Vietnam to Meo Vac will surely give you the unforgettable experience.

Located in a remote area of Northern Vietnam, Cao Bang is well-known for its high biological diversity with abundant endemic flora-fauna species and ecosystems with 5 major river systems and 47 lakes. It is home to 9 different ethnic groups, namely, Tay, Nung, Mong, Kinh, Dao, San Chay… and each minority has its own special crafts, traditional festivals, folk arts, traditional customs and way of living. It makes Cao Bang more famous for its culture richness.

Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang Province).

Cao Bang offers numerous outstanding landscapes and historical sites that you should not miss such as Pac Bo historical site, where President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked the early days to lead Vietnam’s revolution; Ban Gioc waterfalls, the largest breathtakingly majestic waterfalls in Vietnam , Nguom Ngao Cave, Thang Hen lake system, Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda and etc.

Trying an overnight cruise on Halong Bay is a memorable trip

No visit to the North Vietnam is complete without a trip to Halong Bay, one of the Seven World Wonders of Nature with over 2,000 limestone islands and cliffs. Though there are many ways to explore Halong Bay , it is best to board on an overnight cruise which entitles you to soak up the spectacular scenery. You have chance to get a close touch to natural and magnificent beauty of many karst cliffs, rocky spires and hidden caves as well as admire the vaporous clouds of mist, clear turquoise water. Spending time to relax and enjoy a cocktail on the sundeck is not a bad idea. But for those who are looking for some interesting activities, Halong Bay has to offer, including: visiting fishing villages by rowing boat, kayaking around the bay, exploring hidden caves, swimming, squid fishing at night…

Surrounded by Bai Tu Long Bay and Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island appeals a number of travelers who want to explore its beautiful natural scenery of sea and island. It features on three beautiful Cat Co cove beaches which boast the soft yellow sand and crystal clear water, luminous waves and bracing winds. While Cat Co 1 and 3 are linked by a cliff side path that’s a great to stroll anytime, the other is quieter, more pristine and perfect for romantic getaways. Here tourists can take part in some adventurous activities such as taking a motor boat or kayaking to sail to small islets, hiking through the national park or cycling around the island. Cat Ba Island is best to visit from April to November when the weather is perfect for beach break. But it is very crowded in summer time between June and August with a lot of domestic tourists and hard to book accommodation.

Read more: Cat Ba Island

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Highlight Destinations in Central Vietnam

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam Weather: General information & Best Time to Visit

3. Sapa [SEE MAP]

The mountainous town of Sapa is known for its culturally diverse population as well as its proximity to incredible scenery. Sapa itself is home to the members of many hill tribes, including the Hmong, the Dao, the Muong and the Tay. The town also overlooks the magnificent Muong Hoa Valley and its terraced rice fields, which are staggering to behold. If you want to get an inside look at the local residents and their cultures, then head to Sapa for an overnight trek or a homestay. You can hike out to the more remote villages and then spend the night, dining and learning from the hill tribe residents.

2. Hanoi [SEE MAP]

If you only visit one place in Northern Vietnam, it will likely be Hanoi. As the nation’s capital, Hanoi is an exhilarating blend of eastern and western culture. French colonialism is visible through cuisine as well as architecture, particularly in the French Quarter in the Hoàn Kiếm District. Hanoi is packed with incredible temples, and a visit to the 11th century Temple of Literature is a must-do activity. The side-by-side Ho Chi Minh Museum and Mausoleum are also major attractions in Hanoi, and both are striking buildings from the exterior.

1. Ha Long Bay [SEE MAP]

One of the best-known destinations in the entire country is Halong Bay . Its reputation is well deserved, because it is truly beautiful. Halong means descending dragons, which is indicative of the silhouette of the limestone outcrops that poke out from the water. Day cruises or overnight boat trips are a spectacular way to experience the beauty of Halong Bay and to see as many of the islands as possible. In addition to Cat Ba, Quan Lan is a popular stop that is beginning to develop some tourism infrastructure to accommodate a longer stay. You can go swimming, look for caves to explore or find some of the more remote, uninhabited islands while cruising through Halong Bay.

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Wander-Lush

Northern Vietnam Off the Beaten Track: 15 Alternative & Underrated Destinations for Your Travel Itinerary

Searching for the ‘authentic’ Vietnam? Curious to escape the path well-Instagrammed and see a different side of the country? Or perhaps you want to spread your tourism dollars by supporting emerging destinations and small communities. Whatever your motivation, there’s a way to see Vietnam off the beaten track.

While Ha Long Bay, Sapa and Ninh Binh are musts for any first-time visitor to Vietnam’s travel itinerary, sometimes it pays to shrug off the crowds and look beyond the major hubs.

From underrated cities to lesser-known mountain regions and rising ecotourism stars – from the best outdoor activities to living history lessons and hands-on cultural encounters – here are 15 of my favourite underrated destinations in Northern Vietnam .

Also read: 5 places you can’t miss in south Vietnam .

More from Vietnam

Discover the best city guides, itineraries, travel tips & hidden gems in my Vietnam Travel Guide.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

15 destinations where you can experience Northern Vietnam off the beaten track

Fairy Mountain, a set of small green hills in Ha Giang, Vietnam.

All but isolated from the rest of the country until the 1970s, you often hear Ha Giang described as Vietnam’s ‘final frontier’. The northern part of the province forms a natural land border with China and is characterised by soaring mountains, steep ravines, and the incredible Dong Van Karst Plateau.

Ha Giang is typically navigated by tracing the Dong Van Loop, a circuitous route that leads motorbike riders through some of Vietnam’s most majestic landscapes. It’s well worth stopping off in villages to indulge in some of the best trekking Vietnam (or anywhere else in Southeast Asia, for that matter) has to offer.

Overall, Ha Giang is yet to be touched by the heavy hand of tourism – but things are changing fast, and Dong Van is poised to become the next Sapa. Now might be your last opportunity to experience Ha Giang’s ethnic minority markets (an alternative to Bac Ha ) and family-run homestays . If you do decide to visit, make sure you choose a responsible tourism provider.

Read more: Touring Ha Giang with YESD, a responsible tourism enterprise .

How to get there: Limousine bus from Hanoi (6.5-7 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Get Your Guide . Where to stay: Cọ Home (Ha Giang) → Check prices here on Booking.com . Tour option: Private tour with YESD Vietnam (various itineraries from 2-7 days), including transfers from Hanoi, full accommodation/board and an English-speaking guide → See the website for details .

Aerial view of rice terraces in Y Ty, Vietnam.

Located in remote Bat Xat District , I predict that Y Ty will emerge as another alternative to busy Sapa at some point in the future. The area boasts picturesque landscapes, idyllic hamlets, and because of the high altitude, opportunities to ‘chase the clouds’ – a popular pastime in Vietnam which involves snapping photos on misty mornings.

While Y Ty remains underdeveloped and tricky to access outside of group tours for now, a handful of NGOs, including CIRUM, are partnering with ethnic minority groups in the area to introduce sustainable tourism.

These projects run parallel to a legal program that’s working to secure land rights for members of ethnic minority communities, a pressing issue in this part of Northern Vietnam and a mission that’s certainly worth supporting.

How to get there: Sleeper bus or VIP minivan from Hanoi to Lao Cai (5.5-6 hours travel time) + transfer → Buy your bus tickets online here through Bookaway . OR Chapa Express sleeper train from Hanoi + transfer → Buy your train tickets online here through GetYourGuide . Where to stay: Homestay xá Hà nhì → Check prices here on Booking.com .

Mu Cang Chai

If you’ve seen those jaw-dropping photos of rice terraces in Vietnam, there’s a good chance they were snapped in or around Mu Cang Chai. You’d be hard pressed to find fields on this scale anywhere else in the country.

Rendered in shades of bottle green or wattle yellow depending on the time of year, the towering terraces are a weather beacon for the changing seasons and different stages of the rice harvest. What happens out here dictates the fortunes of hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese farmers.

Because of its remote location, Mu Cang Chai District receives relatively few tourists. But if it’s sublime hiking in complete solitude that you’re after, it’s worth the trek.

How to get there: Sleeper bus or minivan from Hanoi (7.5 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Hello Mu Cang Chai Homestay → Check prices here on Booking.com . Tour option: Private two-day tour with trekking and photo stops, including transfers from Hanoi and homestay accommodation → Book here through GetYourGuide .

Water cascades over the three-tiered Detian Ban Gioc Waterfalls in Vietnam.

Detian Waterfalls (Ban Gioc)

Indisputably the most majestic waterfall in Vietnam, the Detian cascades (AKA Ban Gioc falls) are located on the Vietnam-China border in north-east Cao Bang Province.

The waterfalls appear vastly different depending on what time of year you go: In the dry season, there are two distinct waterfalls but in the wet season, the deluge gives the appearance of one giant cascade. The 30-metre sheer drop makes this the fourth largest waterfall along a national border after Victoria Falls, Niagara and Iguazu.

Nearby Cao Bang city is a great base to explore the Detian falls and other smaller waterfalls and lakes in the area.

How to get there: Sleeper bus or VIP minivan from Hanoi to Cao Bang (5.5-7 hours travel time) + transfer → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Yến Nhi Bản Giốc Homestay → Check prices here on Booking.com. Tour option: Three-day tour to Ba Be Lake & Ban Gioc Waterfall, including private transfers from Hanoi, a boat trip on the Nang River and full accommodation/board → Book here through GetYourGuide .

A woman sits in a traditional wooden bath tub at a homestay in Northern Vietnam.

A few years ago, three communities in Da Bac District, Hoa Binh Province formed an alliance to bring tourists to their villages. Their project, Da Bac Community-Based Tourism , is a perfect example of how alternative tourism can thrive.

Visitors to Da Bac can enjoy homestays, delicious home-cooked meals, trekking, water sports (two of the villages have access to the Da Bac River and lake), and cultural activities. Or you could copy me and steep yourself in a wooden tub filled with steaming water and herbs. The bathing ritual is an ancient Red Dao herbal remedy said to improve circulation and general health.

Da Bac is visited by some group tours, but it’s still very much considered to be off the beaten track. Families here need support from tourists like you in order to keep their project afloat. If you’re interested in giving back to ethnic communities while you’re in Vietnam, Da Bac is the perfect place to do it.

Read more: Our terrific homestay experience in Da Bac .

How to get there & where to stay: Multi-day itinerary with Da Bac CBT, including transfers and full room & board → See here for details .

Thai Nguyen

Most people associate Vietnam with coffee . But before French colonisation, it was a tea-drinking nation. Thai Nguyen Province, just north of Hanoi, is the hub of the country’s tea industry and grows much of the green tea that Vietnam exports. You can find packets of loose leaf bearing the province’s name all over Hanoi and Northern Vietnam.

There are dozens of privately owned tea plantations located close to Thai Nguyen city, itself a modest urban area. Owners welcome guests to sit down for a tea tasting before walking them through the fields to watch the pickers at work.

Thai Nguyen is also home to the Museum of the Cultures of Vietnam’s Ethnic Groups and the intriguing Thai Hai Tay Ethnic Village. I highly recommend both.

How to get there: Taxi or minivan from Hanoi (1.5-2 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Nam My Van Homestay → Check prices here on Booking.com .

Women pick tea in Moc Chau, Vietnam, against a backdrop of mountains.

Poor old Moc Chau District is almost completely overshadowed by neighbouring Mai Chau. Located less than 100km up the road in Son La Province (but admittedly a little harder to reach by public transport), Moc Chau is a great alternative to the tourist-heavy Mai Chau Valley.

The best time to visit Moc Chau is in the spring, when the landscape is engulfed in blooming cherry blossoms. Other varietals paint the hills different shades at other times of year.

Like Thai Nguyen, Moc Chau has something special in stall for tea lovers : Verdant tea hills run to the horizon. Visit during the harvest season to watch workers busy in the bushes.

How to get there: Bus or VIP minivan from Hanoi (5-6 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Hillside House → Check prices here on Booking.com . Tour option: Three-day Moc Chau and Mai Chau tour from Hanoi, including private transfers, meals and bungalow accommodation → Book here through GetYourGuide .

A cosy wooden bungalow in Pu Luong, Vietnam.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Pu Luong is probably the most pristine patch of land I saw during my time in Vietnam. Protected since 1999, the 17-odd hectare reserve is valued for its flora and fauna.

A number of ethnic Thai and Muong communities dwell inside the park’s boundaries, following a largely traditional lifestyle. Among their pursuits is building the incredible bamboo water wheels that Pu Luong is known for. These magnificent structures harvest water from low-lying streams, filtering it into the rice fields via a series of bamboo pipes. It really has to be seen to be appreciated.

Ancient technology set against virgin forest, verdant fields and thatched-roof hamlets: Pu Luong is exactly the sort of landscape Vietnam dreams are made of.

Access to Pu Luong is fairly limited, which of course is a bit part of its appeal. When we visited in 2018, we only saw a few other tourists. It’s possible to trek through the park on a multi-day hike. There are also homestays where you can base your stay and embark on shorter walks.

Read more: Waterwheels and rice fields in Pu Luong .

How to get there: VIP minivan from Hanoi (3.5-4 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Pu Luong Ecolodge → Check prices here on Booking.com .

An abandoned Catholic church in Nam Dinh, Vietnam.

Now there’s a sight I bet you weren’t expecting in Northern Vietnam. Nam Dinh Province, which stretches all the way to the Gulf of Tonkin through the fertile Red River Delta, is famous for its high concentration of Roman Catholic churches. This was the first place missionaries to Vietnam landed in the 1500s, thus Nam Dinh is known as the country’s cradle of Catholicism.

Many of Nam Dinh’s churches are still used by the Catholic community today. Others have been abandoned and left to nature. The architecture in this part of the country is a revelation and something not many tourists get a chance to see.

The most impressive cathedral of the bunch (by my measure) lies in Hai Ly commune. The 1943-built St. Maria Madalena was originally constructed inland, but because of coastal erosion, is now perched precariously on the shoreline.

How to get there: Train, bus or minivan from Hanoi → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: SOJO Hotel → Check prices here on Booking.com .

Workers toil on the salt pans in Vietnam.

Diem Dien Salt Flats, Thai Binh

You’ve probably heard about Cambodia’s salt pans in Kampot and the Hon Khoi salt fields in Nha Trang, but did you know salt is harvested in Northern Vietnam, too?

It may be one of the country’s poorest provinces, but Thai Binh is a real gem. Located close to Hanoi on the train line to Ninh Binh , the traditional industry along the coastline in villages such as Diem Dien is sea salt.

Every day, hundreds of workers descend on the burnished fields to harvest basket loads of crystals. A visit to Diem Dien and the other salt villages in Thai Binh provides some unique photo opportunities. It’s also a window onto one of Vietnam’s most gruelling industries and the lives of those who toil on the salt fields to supply our pantry staples.

How to get there: Bus or car from Hanoi to Thai Binh (2-3 hours travel time) + transfer → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Khách sạn Hoàng Gia → Check prices here on Booking.com .

A woman sells fruit at a market stall in Hai Phong, Northern Vietnam.

Hai Phong City

Despite being the second-largest city in Northern Vietnam, most tourists skip Hai Phong, using it as a stepping stone to Cat Ba Island instead. Cat Ba wasn’t exactly my cup of tea (hence it’s absence from this list). Hai Phong , on the other hand, utterly charmed me.

I learned from my work colleagues that Hai Phong has a reputation among Vietnamese for being a bit rough – probably because it’s a port city. I didn’t get that vibe at all. My impression of Hai Phong is that it has all the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter but with less traffic and no tourists.

Highlights include mango-coloured colonial buildings (the French also settled Hai Phong and left their mark here, too), and a bustling marketplace. Hai Phong hosts an annual spring flower festival, which would be wonderful to see.

The road that connects Hai Phong to Hanoi is the best highway in Northern Vietnam, making it a quick and convenient getaway from the capital.

Read more: My quick guide to Hai Phong city .

How to get there: Train, minivan or car from Hanoi (from 2.5 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: HK Apartment & Hotel → Check prices here on Booking.com .

A lone kayak sits on a beach in Lan Ha Bay.

An alternative to busy Halong Bay and budding Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay is a more obscure base for exploring the waters off Northern Vietnam’s coast. The landscape of karst rock formations is almost identical, yet junk boats are far and few between, which means the area is much quieter and less polluted.

Another advantage Lan Ha has over Halong is the multitude of white-sand beaches that crest several of the larger rocky islands. Kayaking, snorkelling and swimming are all available, either as part of a day excursion or a longer overnight stint.

It’s less common to spend a night on the water here: Instead, many people choose to bunk down at a rural homestay or island bungalow.

How to get there: Bus + ferry from Hanoi or Hai Phong to Cat Ba island (2-4 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Lan Homestay (Cat Ba) → Check prices here on Booking.com . Day trip option: One-day kayaking experience and cooking class on the bay, including transfers from Hanoi → Book here through GetYourGuide .

Tuyen Quang

The small city of Tuyen Quang is steeped in revolutionary history. Landmarks such as Hong Thai Temple and Tan Trao banyan tree are tied up with Vietnam’s struggle for independence.

Na Lua, the shack where Ho Chi Minh lived for a period in 1945 while plotting the French resistance, is preserved in Tuyen Quang, and is something of a pilgrimage site for Vietnamese nationalists.

There’s also a cluster of pretty temples and an impressive concrete monument, which has ‘Communist chic’ written all over it. Tuyen Quang might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I found it intriguing.

Mineral springs and caves can be visited on Tuyen Quang’s outskirts, along with nearby Thac Ba Lake.

How to get there: Local bus from Hanoi (3-4 hours travel time) → Buy your tickets online here through Bookaway . Where to stay: Muong Thanh Grand Tuyen Quang Hotel → Check prices here on Booking.com .

Thac Ba Lake

Located roughly halfway between Hanoi and Sapa, Thac Ba Lake is a man-made lake that was created in the 1970s by way of a hydroelectric dam.

When viewed on Google Maps, the lake looks like a mottled mess. Those jagged blots are actually hundreds of individual islands – 1,300 to be precise – covered in shaggy forest.

Homestays around the lake and in the nearby city of Yen Bai offer boat tours and other water activities for tourists. Vu Linh, a stilted village on the lake, is a nice place to base your stay.

How to get there: Local bus or transfer to Yen Bai + transfer (3-4 hours travel time). Where to stay: Xoi Farmstay (Yen Bai) → Check prices here on Booking.com .

Ba Vi National Park

Just a stone’s throw from Hanoi, it’s a wonder why more tourists don’t take the time to visit Ba Vi, one of Vietnam’s loveliest national parks . Popular with Vietnamese families, especially on weekends and holidays, Ba Vi is something of a local icon. A statue of Ho Chi Minh and a temple dedicated to Uncle Ho sit atop the park’s highest peak.

There are swirling rumours that the independence leader is actually buried somewhere in Ba Vi and that it’s a wax model lying in the Mausoleum in Hanoi. Either way, Ba Vi is a spiritual and auspicious place.

I recommend you take your own transport so you’re free to explore Ba Vi’s winding paths and abandoned buildings at your own pace. There are also a number of hiking trails within the park. If you’re looking for a place to stay the night nearby, I highly recommend Uncle Ty’s Farmstay .

How to get there: Motorbike, taxi or local bus from Hanoi (1-2 hours travel time). Where to stay: Uncle Ty’s Farmstay (Ky Son) → Check prices here on Booking.com . Day trip option: Full day trekking tour from Hanoi with transfers → Book here through GetYourGuide .

A woman rides her bike on a path underneath the Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi as a train flies past.

Bonus: Getting off the beaten track in Hanoi

Even if you’re trying to avoid Northern Vietnam’s hotspots, a few days in Hanoi is an absolute must for every first-time visitor . I called this hectic city home for a full 12 months and still only managed to scratch the surface. Hanoi is absolutely huge .

There are plenty of residential areas and historic suburbs where you can escape the chaos of the Old Quarter. Equally, there are a limitless number of ‘secret’ spots hidden right in plain sight – such as Long Bien Bridge and ‘banana island’ – which evade most tourists’ radars.

Wake up when the city rises to see Hanoi from a totally different perspective. Take a day trip to Duong Lam Ancient Village on a weekday to experience a slice of village life.

Spend the night in a beautiful Airbnb to experience Hanoi’s heritage architecture and winding alleyways hands-on. There are plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten track in Northern Vietnam’s biggest metropolis.

Read more: My guides to Ngoc Ha and Truc Bach , my favourite inner Hanoi neighbourhoods.

Map of alternative places to visit in Northern Vietnam

Use the map to start planning your Northern Vietnam off the beaten track adventure.

Click here to open and save a copy via Google Drive .

Vietnam essentials

Here are the booking sites and services I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam .

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Vietnam using Skyscanner .

VIETNAM VISA: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Vietnam and apply for an expedited e-visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation if required.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Pre-book a private hotel transfer from Hanoi Airport or Ho Chi Minh City Airport via Get Your Guide.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Vietnam online before you go. My top choice is the Asia Link Regional eSIM by Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Vietnam on Agoda or book a Vietnam hostel .

TRAIN TICKETS: Reserve your Vietnam Rail tickets for the train to Sapa , Da Nang, Hue or Saigon via 12GoAsia.

BUS TICKETS: Buy your domestic bus or plane tickets in advance using 12GoAsia or Bookaway .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Vietnam on Cookly. Here are my top 15 Vietnam food experiences to help you decide.

DAY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Vietnam on Get Your Guide. Check out my top 10 best Vietnam day trips for more inspiration.

HALONG BAY: Consult my comprehensive Halong Bay guide to find the best cruises & tours.

VIETNAM GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Vietnam .

Where is your favourite place to experience Vietnam off the beaten track? Which of these alternative destinations would make it onto your Vietnam itinerary?

33 Comments

Thank you for this very beneficial blog! Keep up the good work.

GREAT photos Emily,

I remember my 3 week moto trip of the northern loop, one of the best travel experiences ive ever had. My ass has never really been the same again! I think we did 200k per day on average.

I found this site as Im reviewing a contract to work in Haiphong, you give it 4 or 5 stars. Ive also heard various slightly offputting comments. I too seemed to bypass it too on the ha long/cat ba 5 day excursion.

I have 2 big questions: what camera and lenses do you use?? your shots are amazing when were you there? Ive been living in Vietnam 8 years, things develop and change so fast.

Im going to read this all properly later, enjoying it … those photos!! Ive only been in the north during Summer , Ha noi is possibly the most hot, humid, still place Ive been in Summer, but thats the big school break. The photo of the bridge in Ha Noi I decided to cross at the tail end of a 10 km city walk, at noon, I was drenched, possibly limping… getting crazy looks from locals. Now I completely avoid the sun here after so many years .

thanks for this great project Mike

Hi Mike, thanks so much for the comment! I was living in Hanoi 2017/18 (had to check my calendar, feels so long ago now!). Well overdue for a return visit. I use a 25mm prime lens for most of my photos. Glad you like them!

I enjoyed Haiphong very much, I’m not sure what it would be like to live there but as a tourist, it was wonderful. Especially as a contract to Hanoi.

Hi Emily, I am really surprised when looking at the list of destinations in your article. As a Vietnamese born in northern Vietnam, these destination names are really familiar to me. But as I am working for a travel agency in Hanoi and contact with many international tourists and almost everyone is very unfamiliar with these places in the north. Glad and grateful for your time in exploring these interesting, authentic lands.

Hi Emily, I read some of your blogs on exploring different parts of Vietnam in length. Each of the blog is awesome. I am travelling to Vietnam, starting from HCMC and flying out of hanoi. I have total of 10 days. Based on your trips, I need lot more days to explore but cant afford that. I want to have mix of city and nearby spots to explore. This is what I have thought: 1. 1 day in HCMC 2. Mekong Delta or Ca Pho – can we do day trip to Ca Pho. I have to come back to HCMC, since I have flight to Da nang. 3. Da Nang to Hoi an & hue. I noticed Da Nang is in middle between Hoi an & Hue. – 2.5 days what is recommended to be based at Hue or Hoi An ? and then do day trip to either of the city 3. Take overnight train to Sapa and spend 1 day there and next day train to Hanoi. Not sure if its feasible or go straight way to Hanoi. 4. spend 2 days in Hanoi and Halong Bay 1.5 days. What do you recommend exploring from Hanoi close by? I dont want to end up on road all the time and chasing activity list. i am travelling with a friend, who is less of an adventure on hiking side but definitely more interested in food exploration being a chef. appreciate your thoughts.

thanks Aarti

My initial impression is that your itinerary is a bit rushed. I’d love to offer you detailed feedback – I have an itinerary planning service if you’re interested. Sorry I don’t have more time to answer your questions in detail! Let me know if you’re interested and we can chat more over email.

Hi Your list of places sounds like what we are looking for. We have one month in Vietnam this December/January . What I am unsure of is if all these places are easily accessible by train or if we need to organise a vehicle. My husband has a friend who hired a driver and toured a similar route. We will be travelling with our 5 year old and 8 year old so need the travel to be fairly simple and safe? What do you recommend. It to travelled in Vitenam 2002 and am after an experience for our family that is not too touristy.

Some are accessible by bus, but you’ll need a driver for others. If you’re travelling with kids, I think a car and driver would be the best way to go!

Ok thanks that’s what we thought. Any ideas which companies offer this service.

Hi Emily, thanks for all the interesting and practical information on your blog. We are traveling to Hanoi for the second time in November. We are considering doing a loop including Duong Lam, Ba Vi, Mai Chau, Pu long and Nhim bin. We wanted an idea of how many days we should allow and which direction to travel first. Much appreciated.

Hi Roschelle, sorry for the delayed reply. I think 1-2 days for each is plenty (maybe 3 days each for Ninh Binh and Mai Chau). Duong Lam can be seen in a day. I would definitely head to Ninh Binh first, then to Pu Luong, and onto Mai Chau (this is the way we travelled too).

Let me know if there’s anything else I can help with!

Hello Emily, I’m so glad I found your blog! We’re heading to Northern Vietnam for 3 1/2 weeks in two weeks with our 10 and 13 years old daughters. We fell in love with Vietnam in 2002 and we’re not sure what we’re going to think of the country after all these years, so we are searching for off thé beating tracks idea… but not too much still because of the kids. We have a Airbnb near the cathédral in Hanoi, but I really want to know where are the great less touristy neighborhood. We will also go to Ta Van, we have 3 days in Bai Tu Long Bay, hopefully a night or two in Haiphong, then a ricefield homestay near Ninh Bin, then Pu Luong. How does it sound to you? Anything we should change since we still have a few days to cancel any reservation? Should we cut off time in Tavan to stop to Mu Cang Chai ? Is Moc Chau worth the drive with children? Thanks a lot!

Hi Isabelle! Awesome. I bet you’ll find things have changed a lot!

My favourite Hanoi neighbourhoods are Ngoc Ha (where I lived) and Truc Bach. I have guides to both on my site – just look under the Vietnam category.

Mu Cang Chai is spectacular but a long drive. I like the sound of your plan!

Thanks Emily, we’ve changed our last Airbnb to be in Truc Bach!

Great choice! Make sure you eat ‘pho cuon’ at one of the Truc Bach cafes and try State Run Foodshop. Two of my favourites!

Good to read this. We want to stay a month at one spot to ‘feel’ and explore authentic Vietnam. Which place should you suggest? Most places a read about are short stay visit spots.

Hi Ronald, cool! If I were you, I would choose a nice homestay with a family who would be happy to spend time with you. Hoa Binh province might be ideal, since you can easily get back to Hanoi if you need.

A month is a long time – I’m sure you’ll have a great experience!

I’ve been wanting to make it to Southeast Asia, specifically Vietnam, for years but the well-defined tourist trail has significantly deterred me. Thank you thank you for this amazing guide!!

You’re most welcome, Caitlin! Happy travels!

Hi, Thank you for your wonderful blog. I have been volunteering for 2 months in Northern Thailand – with Warm Heart, a non-profit that provides homes and education for HillTribe children. I have loved getting to know Chiang Mai and Phrao. I am going to Hanoi for only 5 days before flying back to San Francisco. On your recommendation, I am staying at Indigo Snail. Now I need to decide whether to go to Halong Bay or spend a day or two in Hanoi. Thanks again!

Wonderful to hear, Debbie! It’s an excellent homestay and Sue is a great host.

Hanoi is a fabulous city—more than enough to keep you entertained.

Enjoy Vietnam!

Hi Emily, I’m grateful for your useful travel blog. I will be visiting Vietnam for my first time in December for 3 weeks. I plan to only be in Northern & Central Vietnam. I’m trying to decide which rural sites for multi-day stays/tours. I’m hoping to do some trekking and exploring culture(textile, food) in these villages. Can you rank Ha Giang, Pu Luong, Ninh Binh region, Phong Nha, and Mu Cang Chai in order of your preference for my itinerary ? I know I can’t see them all and some maybe similar to each other on the list. Thank you for your kind consideration, Althea

Hi Althea, they are all very different and it would be difficult to ‘rank’ them – but Ha Giang is definitely something special. Pu Luong too. The others are quite touristy by comparison with the exception of Mu Cang Chai, which is more difficult to get to.

I loved my two weeks in Vietnam. When leaving, I knew I had to go back as there was so much more to see and understand about the country. This post is so wonderful. And the photos are stunning! All these places look and sound incredible and I hope to get to them all. Though, I did do a hike to Hang En Cave in Phong Nha and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I can’t wait to go back and see more of that park. Thanks for sharing!

Excellent! I loved Phong Nha too! We were there for New Years and spent the first day of the year cycling through the National Park. It was just perfect. There’s SO MUCH to do in Vietnam! Even I feel like I still need to go back!

Omg, I wish I had this list when I went to Vietnam last year! We got to go to Da Bac which was incredible, we hiked with locals and celebrated Tet with them (their new year). I’m dying to go back so I can visit Son Doong Cave and do some camping.

That’s awesome, Andy! So happy to hear you got to Da Bac. Don’t worry—there’s way too much to see in Vietnam for just one visit. You’ll have to go back! Phong Nha is wonderful, too.

A great post with some different destinations . Loved the imagery too.

These places just look absolutely stunning. I have sadly just left Vietnam, but I will definitely pin this for my next visit!

Thank you so much for this very different post about Vietnam. I have been to Hoi An and really want to see more of the country. Great inspiration for my future travels!

Thanks Elisabeth! Hope you make it back soon!

Yes! The Ha Giang Motorbike Loop was definitely one of the highlights from my trip around South East Asia, if not the best part. Haven’t heard of most of the others, so thank you for sharing 💕

So glad to hear that, Sandy! I love Ha Giang too!

Recommended Trips

You may also like, the north of vietnam makes a statement with majestic mountain ranges, centuries-old rice terraces, and fascinating ethnic groups..

Along the banks of the Red River lies Hanoi, a city locked in time yet simultaneously leaping forward. Hanoi’s atmospheric Old Quarter, beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake and classic colonial architecture will leave you enchanted. There are excellent museums and art galleries to tour and when you get hungry, you’ll find the northern streetfood is both abundant and delicious. Pull up a chair at one of many charming cafes to watch life unfurl and gain a sense of the city’s timeless rhythm.

Not far from Hanoi waits the fairy tale landscape of Ninh Binh, where sheer limestone cliffs rear straight up from paddy fields, and rowboats will bring you on a mesmerising journey through river caves. No visit to the north is complete without a cruise on Halong Bay to soak in the sight of thousands of islets and the bay’s deep emerald green waters.

Top Destinations In Northern Vietnam

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COMMENTS

8 must-visit places in North Vietnam | Vietnam Travel
Other than that, you can visit some highlights in Ninh Binh such as Bai Dinh Pagoda – the largest pagoda in Vietnam, Bich Dong Pagoda, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Phat Diem Cathedral, Mua Cave, and Cuc Phuong National Park. Ngo Dong River: The beautiful river in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh. Read more: Things to do in Ninh Binh.
10 Most Amazing Destinations in Northern Vietnam - Touropia
You can tour the fort and take advantage of the elevation to snap some amazing pictures of the views below. 8. Bai Tu Long Bay [SEE MAP] Adam Straney / Flickr. Halong Bay is, without question, one of the most popular destinations in Northern Vietnam. However, it is not the only beautiful bay worth exploring in the region.
Northern Vietnam Off the Beaten Track: Top 15 Destinations
Lan Ha Bay. Tuyen Quang. Thac Ba Lake. Ba Vi National Park. Bonus: Getting off the beaten track in Hanoi. Also read: 5 places you can’t miss in south Vietnam. Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.
8 of the Best Places to Visit in Northern Vietnam - World Nomads
Vietnam's most iconic natural wonders may be the craggy lime islands of Halong Bay. But the real treasures lie off the beaten track, in the rural areas of north Vietnam. Discover 8 amazing places to visit and things to do.
Northern Vietnam | Vietnam Tourism
The north of Vietnam makes a statement with majestic mountain ranges, centuries-old rice terraces, and fascinating ethnic groups. Along the banks of the Red River lies Hanoi, a city locked in time yet simultaneously leaping forward. Hanoi’s atmospheric Old Quarter, beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake and classic colonial architecture will leave you ...
North Vietnam Itinerary (2 Weeks): Best Things to Do in ...
Tour Bai Dinh Pagoda, the Largest Buddhist Temple in Vietnam. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Go cycling or scooter through the countryside, climbing random mountains and finding groups of water buffalo. Book: Ninh Binh Highlights Daytrip Tour From Hanoi.