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Northern Vietnam's tourist spots always garner immense love from travel enthusiasts. Renowned for its scenic landscapes and unique cultural values, this region never fails to enchant visitors. Each destination possesses its own charm, effortlessly captivating every traveler's heart. If you're still unsure about the hottest tourist spots in the North, check out the following article for more choices.
Introduction to Northern Vietnam
Northern Vietnam is considered the cradle of our country's culture and history. This area is divided into three main regions: Northeast, Northwest, and the Red River Delta. The terrain here is quite complex, mainly consisting of rugged mountains and hills. The majority of the population in Northern Vietnam resides in the Red River Delta region.
With the terrain characteristics as mentioned above, this place is bestowed by nature with incredibly beautiful landscapes. However, the mountainous provinces have rugged and difficult roads. Therefore, the weather will greatly determine your journey and experience. Before embarking on your trip, you should pay close attention to thorough research.
The mountainous scenery in Northern Vietnam is as beautiful as a painted picture (Source: Collection)
The best time for you to explore Northern Vietnam is from late August to December, especially after the Lunar New Year. That's when the Northern sky and land become most beautiful, with pleasant weather and no rain. It's also the time for unique festivals and the blooming season of various flowers.
Beautiful Northern Vietnam Tourist Destinations You Should Visit Once in Your Lifetime
Are you planning to travel to Northern Vietnam but unsure about the famous tourist spots? Let's explore the following information to find the perfect answer for yourself!
1. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Spot - Hanoi
When it comes to Northern Vietnam tourist destinations, Hanoi cannot be missed. The thousand-year-old capital city has countless fascinating things for you to discover. This journey will take you to explore its long-standing cultural and historical values, along with its rich cuisine.
Hanoi will introduce you to remarkable places such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter,... Visiting Hanoi without strolling around its streets, stepping into its famous spots would be a regrettable omission. The elegance and sophistication of the capital's residents will surely leave you impressed.
Sunset over West Lake is also a scene worth beholding (Image Source: Collection)
Many people say that Hanoi is most beautiful at night. At that time, the city lights up with vibrant colors. The nightlife in Hanoi is bustling and lively. This will give you a different perspective on a capital city with many ancient features.
2. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Spot - Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is a very famous Northern Vietnam tourist destination. This world natural wonder attracts millions of tourists from both domestic and international to visit. It can be said that this place is like a precious gem of Northern Vietnam. The bay is located within the Gulf of Tonkin, situated in Quang Ninh Province.
The total area of the bay reaches 1,553 km2 with about 1,969 different-sized islands. This destination is surely not unfamiliar to you as you've seen it numerous times in the media. However, only when you set foot here, will you truly appreciate its beauty.
Visiting this place, you will have the opportunity to admire the magnificent scenery (Image Source: Collection)
Visiting this heavenly place, you can experience cruising along the river admiring the picturesque scenery. Along with that is the sight of natural islands with unique shapes emerging from the water. Or more excitingly, stopping to explore the mysterious caves. Other activities such as swimming, kayaking, visiting fishing villages, overnighting on cruises... are also highly popular.
This world wonder possesses an incredibly diverse system of flora and fauna caves. This is what makes the scenery here even more lush and unique. Whether you're traveling alone or with friends, family, it will be a fantastic journey. The breathtaking scenery in Ha Long will bring you indescribable relaxation, dispelling all worries.
3. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Spot - Ha Giang
For a long time, Ha Giang has become a quite familiar Northern Vietnam tourist destination for travel enthusiasts. Many people have chosen this destination for their conquering journey. It can be said that this is one of the most beautiful mountainous provinces in our country. Because it is still quite pristine and developing, it is very suitable for those passionate about exploration.
Ha Giang belongs to the Northeast region with an area of up to 8,000 km2. This land is endowed by nature with mountain passes, waterfalls, trails, valleys,... The roads here are quite winding and twisting, but the scenery along the roadside is stunning.
Ha Giang is always an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts (Image Source: Collection)
Visiting here, you will understand more about the life and beauty of the ethnic people in the mountainous areas. The unique customs and cultures in the villages in Ha Giang are still preserved. You can visit Sung La village, Cao Pho street,... to have a clearer view.
When in Ha Giang, don't forget to visit Lung Cu flagpole, admire the Nho Que River, conquer Ma Pi Leng pass,... Those magnificent natural landscapes will surely leave you in awe. Also, don't forget to enjoy the delicious cuisine here. Typical dishes such as Au Tau porridge, sour pho, grilled moss, buckwheat triangle cake,...
4. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Spot - Sapa
Sapa belongs to Lao Cai province, located in the Northwest region. This Northern Vietnam tourist destination is famous for its poetic mountainous beauty. Sapa is located at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level. Thanks to this, the place has a cool climate all year round. The lush, fresh forests have made Sapa's climate even cooler and fresher.
If you come here in winter, you'll also have the opportunity to hunt for snow! The terraced fields here will be even more beautiful if you come during the ripe rice season. Visiting here, you'll have the chance to admire the beautiful natural scenery. Along with that is gaining more understanding about the H'Mong, Dao ethnic groups.
You'll have wonderful moments with friends and family when visiting Sapa (Image Source: Collection)
In Sapa, there are many places for you to stop and explore. For example, Fansipan peak, Cat Cat village, Silver waterfall,... Each destination carries the characteristics of the Northwest mountains and forests. The frames, the captured moments will make you feel nostalgic every time you look back.
The trip will be more complete if you indulge in the cuisine here. Some must-try dishes in Sapa are bamboo rice, stove-cooked buffalo meat, seven-color sticky rice... Taking a herbal bath with red Dao, shopping at the highland markets... are also experiences you shouldn't miss.
5. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Spot - Moc Chau
Moc Chau, Son La is also a very popular Northern Vietnam tourist destination. This place is also affectionately called the land of 12 flower seasons. Indeed, no matter when you visit, you will have the opportunity to admire Moc Chau with its unique beauty. If you want to find a place far from the hustle and bustle of the city, then there is no better place than here.
Visiting Moc Chau, you will have the opportunity to admire majestic mountains and forests. Especially worth mentioning are the lush green tea hills and charming villages. The cool climate and the drifting mist have made this place even more romantic. You will have a truly relaxing vacation when choosing Moc Chau as your destination.
Moc Chau is an ideal destination if you want to find peace and tranquility (Image Source: Collection)
There are many beautiful places here that you shouldn't miss. For example, Ban Ang pine forest, Heart-shaped tea hill, Pha Luong peak, ethnic villages... This is a wonderful opportunity for you to immerse yourself in nature, to live fully in every moment. Also, you can get closer and understand more about the lives of ethnic minorities here.
You will be embraced by Mother Nature and feel indescribable healing. When in Moc Chau, you must try dishes like Suoi Bang snails, stream fish, grilled goat, nậm pịa... Northwestern mountain cuisine always carries its own unique characteristics. Rest assured that a trip to Moc Chau will not disappoint you.
6. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Spot - Mai Chau
Mai Chau is located in Hoa Binh province. This Northern Vietnam tourist spot is about 130 km from Hanoi. This land is surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. Especially, it is the convergence of many ethnic groups. The cool and pleasant climate is one of the factors that make Mai Chau attractive.
This place is favored by nature with picturesque landscapes. Depending on the time, you may immerse yourself in cherry blossom, peach blossom, and ban flower forests... If you love tranquility, Mai Chau is indeed an ideal choice.
Cycling is one of the most beloved activities by tourists when visiting Mai Chau (Source: Collection)
This destination attracts thousands of visitors each year. Here, there are community tourism areas like Pom Coọng village, Lac village... The most interesting activity is cycling to explore Mai Chau valley. The unique points of culture, land, and people here will be vividly depicted in your eyes.
7. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Spot - Tam Dao
Tam Dao is a famous tourist destination in Northern Vietnam located in Vinh Phuc province. With an altitude of 900 meters, this place boasts a very cool and fresh atmosphere. It is about 70 km from Hanoi, making it convenient for day trips.
It is called Tam Dao because it has three towering mountains above the clouds. They are Thien Thi, Thach Ban, and Phu Nghia mountains. With its cool and unique climate, you can visit Tam Dao at any time of the year. When you set foot here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy four seasons in a day.
In Tam Dao, there are plenty of super cute 'instagrammable' coffee shops (Source: Collection)
In the morning, the weather here is relatively cool and pleasant. As the sun rises higher, the air gradually becomes warmer, characteristic of summer. In the afternoon, as the sunset approaches, Tam Dao begins to welcome cool autumn breezes. And in the evening, the temperature starts to drop, and the weather feels like winter.
In the past, this was a popular resort destination for the French. It features landscapes of many mountains and European-style buildings. Tam Dao is an ideal weekend getaway. In the summer, this tourist destination is also crowded as an ideal cooling escape.
8. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Destination - Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is an island located in Ha Long Bay. The island has a large area with unique natural landscapes. This place blends forests and the sea, so the flora and fauna are extremely diverse. When you come here, you will have the opportunity to admire the beautiful natural scenery.
Once you set foot on the island, you must immerse yourself in the cool blue waters of Cat Co Beach, Tung Thu Beach, Prince Beach... These beaches are connected to each other by a narrow road winding along the mountainside. The first time you come here, you will feel like you have arrived in a place separated from the world around you.
If you're still unsure where to travel, you might consider visiting Cat Ba Island (Source: Collection)
Besides enjoying the beach, don't forget to visit famous tourist spots! For example, Cat Ba National Park, Monkey Island, Lan Ha Bay, Viet Hai Fishing Village,... To fully experience and have fun, you can spend about 2 days and 1 night here!
Also, don't forget to indulge in delicious fresh seafood on Cat Ba Island! You'll not only have fun and relax but also have the opportunity to experience the local life. These are what make a highly anticipated journey.
9. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Destination - Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is a popular tourist destination in Northern Vietnam eagerly sought after by many travelers. This destination boasts scenic landscapes like paintings, often likened to the ancient capital of our Vietnam. Almost everyone who visits Ninh Binh is captivated by its scenery.
In Ninh Binh, there are numerous attractions for you to explore. Notable ones include Trang An, Tam Coc - Bich Dong, Cuc Phuong National Park, Mua Cave... These destinations will take you on various discovery journeys. It could be drifting along the river admiring the picturesque scenery. Or hiking up to the top of Mua Cave to overlook the entire ancient capital region...
When in Ninh Binh, you must explore Trang An! (Source: Collection)
Don't stop there, you can also experience activities like cycling, kayaking... And if you're here, don't miss the chance to indulge in delicious local specialties. Such as eel vermicelli, braised fish, mixed fish salad, mountain goat, ant egg sticky rice...
Embarking on a journey filled with captivating destinations and landscapes will surely leave you in awe. When you witness it firsthand, you'll realize that the beauty of Ninh Binh is even more stunning than any photograph. It's only when you visit Ninh Binh that you understand why it's becoming increasingly famous.
10. Northern Vietnam Tourist Destination - Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc Waterfall is about 90 km from Cao Bang. It's one of the most famous heavenly waterfalls in the world. From afar, the waterfall looks like a soft white silk strip flowing amidst the mountains. This northern Vietnam tourist destination will undoubtedly bring you wonderful emotional experiences.
It's known as the largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia. And it's also the fourth largest waterfall in the world located on the border milestone of two countries. The waterfall lies between Vietnam and China. If you look from the foot of the waterfall, you will see two parts of it. The left part is the auxiliary waterfall, while the right part is the main waterfall. The area of the auxiliary waterfall and half of the left main waterfall belong to our country's sovereignty. The remaining part of the waterfall belongs to China's territory.
The beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall will surely mesmerize you (Source: Collection)
The waterfall is over 60 meters high with the longest slope being 30 meters. One of the things that make the distinctive beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall lies in the main waterfall section. This cascade doesn't flow straight down in a single line but cascades like a staircase with many terraces and lots of landforms. This has caused the flowing water to split into multiple streams cascading down, creating a beautiful sight.
11. Famous Northern Vietnam Tourist Destination - Ba Vi National Park
One of the favorite Northern Vietnam tourist destinations for weekend getaways is Ba Vi National Park. The park covers a total area of 9,702.41 hectares, providing a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna. It's home to many rare and endangered species listed in the red book.
This destination is about 60 km from the capital Hanoi. The pristine, majestic natural scenery, along with the cool climate, has attracted many tourists. Visiting Ba Vi National Park, you can experience activities such as mountain climbing, camping, and spending a fun-filled 2-day-1-night camping trip, a popular choice among young travelers.
Ba Vi in the season of wild sunflowers blooming (Source: Collection)
Nature has endowed Ba Vi with a diverse terrain. From waterfalls, forests, lakes, rivers, streams,... to famous tourist spots. During your exploration of the national park, don't miss out on Ba Vi's natural forest area. Along with that, check-in at the ancient church steeped in history, or visit the dragon fruit greenhouse.
From April to October, Ba Vi is always crowded with tourists. Because it's an ideal place to escape the heat. Alternatively, you can also visit here in October, November to admire the blooming wild sunflowers along the road, which is very beautiful.
12. Famous Northern Vietnam Destination - Ba Be Lake
Ba Be Lake is renowned as the 'first lake under the sky'. This famous Northern Vietnam destination is known for its stunning natural beauty. Embark on this journey and you'll have the chance to experience the feeling of sitting in a boat admiring the mountains. It's not until you explore this place that you truly understand why Ba Be Lake is referred to as the precious gem of the North.
The lake covers an area of up to 650 hectares, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains and primeval forests. Nestled within Ba Be National Park, this place attracts visitors with its fresh air and beautiful natural scenery. It's also one of the 100 largest natural freshwater lakes in the world.
A moment of tranquility at Ba Be Lake (Source: Collection)
This area is also a gathering and living place for ethnic minority communities. During your sightseeing journey, you'll have the opportunity to get closer and learn more about the customs, culture, and history of these ethnic minority communities. This trip is not just about sightseeing but also about enhancing your cultural experience.
13. Famous Northern Vietnam Destination - Mù Cang Chải
Mù Cang Chải belongs to Yen Bai province. This famous Northern Vietnam destination is likened to the paradise of terraced fields. The terraced fields here are like steps leading you to the sky. In the distance, the roofs of the Muong and Thai people's houses blend with the green of the valley.
The road leading you to Mù Cang Chải is very beautiful. You'll feel as if the splendid natural paintings have passed before your eyes. The period from May to June marks the beginning of the flooding season. During this time, the terraced fields are submerged in water, resembling a large mirror reflecting the sky. Meanwhile, September and October are the time when the rice fields turn golden, creating a breathtaking scenery.
Mù Cang Chải and its sprawling terraced fields (Source: Collection)
Mù Cang Chải boasts a serene and simple natural landscape. All of these have captivated countless travelers from afar. It's no coincidence that this place ranks among the top most beautiful mountainous regions in the world. This is also an opportunity for you to understand more about the perseverance and diligence of the local people.
Khau Phạ, Mù Cang Chải, is often chosen as the venue for the annual paragliding festival. If you want to immerse yourself in this lively atmosphere, you can find out more information online. Remember to check from reputable sources! It will surely be an amazing experience on your journey.
14. Famous Northern Vietnam Destination - Tà Xùa
Tà Xùa is certainly not an unfamiliar destination in Northern Vietnam. This spot, located in Bắc Yên District, Sơn La Province, has increasingly gained recognition over time for its floating sea of clouds. Consequently, Tà Xùa has become a paradise for cloud chasers and travel enthusiasts.
Visiting Tà Xùa, you can step foot on the back of a dinosaur with its unique terrain, turtle head rock formations with rocks protruding from the mountain at a height of 2,120 meters, wind peak with solitary apple trees... This fascinating journey of exploration will surely captivate you.
It would be a shame to visit Tà Xùa without conquering the back of the dinosaur (Source: Collection)
Tà Xùa was formerly known as the birthplace of ancient snow Shan tea and Son Tra fruit. When you come here, don't forget to indulge in the rich local flavors! Such as sour salted meat, kitchen-stored buffalo meat, nậm pịa, velvet antler porridge... Rest assured that the beauty of the Northern mountains and hills will be vividly portrayed before your eyes.
15. Northern Vietnam Travel Destination - Yên Tử
Yên Tử is a spiritually significant travel destination in Northern Vietnam known for its unique landscape located in Uông Bí City, Quảng Ninh. This area features not only temples, statues, pagodas, and towers but also magnificent ancient forests. Together, they create incredibly stunning natural scenery.
Yên Tử is known as the birthplace of the Trúc Lâm Zen sect. Perched atop a 1,068-meter-high mountain is the Đồng Pagoda. Yên Tử was once the place of meditation for the Zen master Yên Kỳ Sinh Phật, also known as Emperor Trần Nhân Tông. He abandoned his throne to practice here, becoming known as the founder of the Trúc Lâm Zen sect.
Yên Tử - A pilgrimage site with mystical spiritual value (Source: Collection)
To reach the mountain peak, you can hike or take the cable car. The cable car system here will take you to the Hoa Yên Pagoda situated at an altitude of 543 meters. From Hoa Yên Pagoda, you continue your journey to Đồng Pagoda. This path will make you feel like you're gliding on clouds.
Famous festivals are often held here, typically from the 10th day of the first lunar month to March annually. These events usually attract many domestic and international tourists. If you want to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere, you can plan your trip to coincide with these times.
Some things to note when traveling in Northern Vietnam
There are a few things to keep in mind when traveling in Northern Vietnam. The brief information below is suitable for any travel destination in Northern Vietnam you visit. Feel free to refer to have a joyful and safe journey!
1. Bring essential items for your trip
Ensuring you have the necessary items for your trip is crucial. Your journey will definitely require power banks, cameras, phones, raincoats, umbrellas... Additionally, bring along hand warmers, heat patches, tissue paper, and more.
Some accommodations in mountainous areas of Northern Vietnam may not provide toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc. Therefore, remember to prepare and bring these items for your travel. For more accurate information, you can inquire with the accommodation when booking. Some tourist spots are still underdeveloped, making it difficult to find convenience stores for shopping.
To avoid forgetting any items, you can create a checklist (Source: Collection)
Basic medical supplies and medications are essential items to bring along, especially when visiting some tourist destinations in Northern Vietnam during cold seasons when the climate can be harsh. At this time, items like fever reducers, headache relief, medicated oil, etc., will be more necessary than ever. Alternatively, you can also bring along ginger tea packs to help regulate body temperature.
2. Clothing
If you're exploring tourist destinations in Northern Vietnam on cool days, opt for comfortable and dynamic clothing. Avoid overly cumbersome outfits as they may be inconvenient during exploration and movement.
Depending on the travel season, remember to bring appropriate clothing (Source: Collection)
If you visit here in winter or on chilly days, you should bring the following clothing:
- Shirt. According to experience, several thin layers will be warmer than one thick shirt. These layers will help stabilize body temperature and retain warmth. You should wear long-sleeved T-shirts, sweaters, and jackets. The outermost layer should be a windbreaker, leather jacket, with waterproof function.
- Pants. Choose fleece-lined or wool-lined pants. You can also wear stretchy and insulating materials such as fleece or cotton outside.
- Preferably sports shoes, non-slip shoes. You should wear high-top shoes with warm-keeping material inside and non-slip soles.
- Socks. Unlike shirts, you should not wear too many layers of socks as they will compress your feet and feel uncomfortable. It is best to choose winter socks with thick, fluffy material. However, if you wear thin socks, you need to wear 2 or 3 pairs to keep warm. It is best to choose high socks to keep warm better.
- In addition, essential items to keep warm such as scarves, gloves, masks should not be missed.
3. Food and Drink
During the trip, it's advisable to eat protein-rich foods and drink water regularly. This will provide energy to your body and increase resistance to cold on cold days. If you're traveling in summer or on hot days, it's best to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
In cold weather, fresh vegetables like onions, spinach, carrots... or spicy food can help generate heat. These dishes will keep you warm, prevent colds and flu.
4. Transportation
For the safest trip, you may want to avoid riding motorcycles to tourist destinations in the North. Some places have long distances to travel, or even if not too far, the roads can be quite rugged. However, if you enjoy motorcycling, make sure to equip yourself properly for a safe journey.
On cold, foggy days, especially when navigating winding mountain roads, it's advisable to reduce your speed. Avoid sudden braking as it may cause the wheels to skid. For added safety, you can equip your car or motorcycle with spiked tires. If the weather is bad, it's better to stop and not continue moving.
Northern routes are often winding and rugged (Source: Collection)
It's essential to carefully plan your time to arrive at your destination before nightfall. Driving through mountain passes at night can be dangerous. Drive slowly but surely and safely. Only venture on a road trip if you have a driver's license and experience driving on mountain roads.
After reading this article, you've likely chosen a tourist destination in the North to visit. No matter where you choose, remember to prepare thoroughly for your trip! For the most enjoyable and safe journey, you can opt for a guided tour. Choose a suitable destination and contact Mytour now! Our Mytour hotline is always ready to advise and assist you.
