Haiphong

Introducing Haiphong

Hai Phong, one of Vietnam's centrally administered municipalities and the country's third-largest city, is located in the Red River Delta, bordering Quang Ninh Province to the north, the Gulf of Tonkin to the east, and 104 kilometers west of Hanoi. Hai Phong's urban area stretches along the left bank of the Kinh Thai River, encompassing both land and islands.

Hai Phong is a modern tourist city with numerous historical sites, most of which are located in the suburbs, such as the summer resort of Do Son, Cat Ba Island National Forest, and the renowned Renshou Temple. Hai Phong boasts over 100 kilometers of coastline, a pleasant climate, and beautiful scenery.

Cat Ba Island, east of Hai Phong, is a pearl of the Gulf of Tonkin and a major fishing center in northern Vietnam. Across from Cat Ba Island lies another scenic summer resort, the Do Son Peninsula, 20 kilometers from the city center. Its captivating coastal scenery attracts scores of domestic and international tourists every summer.

Climate and best time to travel

November to April is the best time to travel to Haiphong, as there is less rain and the weather is cool, making it suitable for sightseeing.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Haiphong

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hai Phong is Vietnam’s third-largest city and main northern port. Founded in the late 19th century during French colonial rule, it has been a major industrial, trade, and naval hub. Its mix of French architecture, Buddhist temples, and coastal attractions highlights both cultural and strategic significance.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in northern Vietnam, about 120 km east of Hanoi.
• By plane: Cat Bi International Airport connects Hai Phong to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other cities.
• By train or bus: regular services from Hanoi (~2–3 hours).
• By car/taxi: highway from Hanoi (~2 hours).
• Within the city: taxis, Grab (ride-hailing), and motorbike taxis are common.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most temples and attractions: 8:00–17:00.
• Best time: October to April (dry and cool weather).
• Summer (May–August) is beach season but can be hot and humid.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Du Hang Pagoda, Opera House (outside view): free.
• Cat Ba Island ferries: ~80,000–100,000 VND per person.
• Lan Ha Bay boat tours: ~300,000–700,000 VND depending on tour length.
• Tickets are usually bought on-site or via tour agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For major attractions, no advance booking is needed. For cruises in Lan Ha Bay or Ha Long Bay, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended during peak season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• Hai Phong city highlights: 1–2 days.
• Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay: 2–3 days.
• Day trips to Ha Long Bay or Do Son Beach: 1 day each.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Hai Phong Opera House.
• Du Hang Pagoda.
• Tam Bac Lake.
• Cat Ba National Park and Lan Ha Bay.
• Do Son Beach.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Local tour companies offer guided tours in English and Vietnamese, especially for Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, and Ha Long Bay. Audio guides are not common in the city.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island viewpoints.
• Sunset views at Do Son Beach.
• Tam Bac Lake with colonial buildings nearby.
• Cat Ba National Park summit trails.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Morning: visit Opera House, Tam Bac Lake, and Du Hang Pagoda. Afternoon: head to Do Son Beach or Cat Ba Island. Evening: explore Hai Phong Night Market or local restaurants.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No light shows, but Hai Phong’s night markets and riverside areas are lively in the evening. Night cruises are available around Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Do Son Beach: busiest on weekends and summer holidays.
• Cat Ba Island: peak during summer and public holidays.
• City temples and Opera House: generally not overcrowded, mornings are quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public attractions and beaches have toilets and food stalls. Cat Ba Island has restaurants, hotels, and shops. The city offers modern conveniences including supermarkets and cafes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The city center is accessible with paved roads. Some older temples and national parks may have steps and uneven paths. Beaches and Cat Ba town are suitable for families.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (VND) is widely used, especially in local markets and small shops. Hotels, big restaurants, and some tour agencies accept cards. Mobile payments like Momo and ZaloPay are available in larger businesses.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Nam Phuong Restaurant (seafood).
• Texas BBQ (Western-style dining).
• Highlands Coffee and local cafes near Tam Bac Lake.
• Seafood restaurants along Do Son Beach.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local Vietnamese restaurants and some international cafes. Halal food is limited but available in Hanoi, about 2 hours away.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Avani Hai Phong Harbour View Hotel (luxury).
• Manoir Des Arts Hotel (boutique).
• Budget guesthouses in Cat Ba Town.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Ha Long Bay (UNESCO site).
• Ninh Binh (Trang An boat tour and limestone mountains).
• Cat Ba National Park.
• Do Son Beach.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, local markets and shops sell souvenirs such as handicrafts, embroidered textiles, ceramics, conical hats, and dried seafood products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Flights from Cat Bi Airport to Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Buses and trains to Hanoi and northern provinces.
• Ferries from Hai Phong to Cat Ba Island.