Vntrip.vn is here to share some insider tips on fantastic, budget-friendly, and refreshing summer travel destinations in Northern Vietnam.
Unmissable budget-friendly summer travel spots in Northern Vietnam.
Craving relaxation after days of work pressure? Need to shake off stress post a challenging academic year? Or simply in search of a getaway to escape the scorching Hanoi summer? Gather your friends and explore these 4 budget-friendly summer travel spots in Northern Vietnam that we recommend below.

Embark on a journey to explore 4 ideal summer destinations in the northern region with your adventurous crew. Let the good times roll! (photo by st)
Dai Lai – Vinh Phuc
Just 40km from the heart of Hanoi, Dai Lai Lake – Vinh Phuc is the perfect summer getaway. It offers refreshing air, cool ambiance, and budget-friendly options.
Visitors will step into a pristine world of nature, surrounded by lush forests and the charming beauty of Ngoc Dao – an enchanting island nestled in the middle of the vast Dai Lai Lake.

Dai Lai Lake – A captivating playground for summer
Dai Lai Lake offers a plethora of outdoor activities like paddle boating, kayaking, sailing, and lake exploration. Youngsters can also bike through the lush forest surrounding the lake, soaking in the fresh, cool air with friends and family.
Travelers can bring homemade snacks to cut costs. However, Vntrip.vn suggests indulging in Dai Lai's specialties such as buffalo meat, hillside chicken, fried rice, papaya salad, grilled fish,.... You'll definitely want to return to Dai Lai for more adventures.
From April to September is the best time to visit Dai Lai Lake. Mild daytime sunshine and pleasantly cool nights create an ideal environment for sightseeing and endless fun. With expenses ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per person, Dai Lai Lake is the perfect summer destination in the North, attracting numerous travelers.
Tam Dao – Vinh Phuc
Just 20km from Dai Lai Lake, another enchanting summer destination in the North reveals itself, full of mystical charm and untouched beauty. Unlike the stifling atmosphere in Hanoi, Tam Dao remains cool throughout the year, making it an ideal resort to escape the summer heat.

Year-round cool weather makes Tam Dao a beloved destination (photo by st)
Tam Dao is like a vibrant, majestic painting, yet full of romantic and endearing touches with the harmonious blend of sky, earth, and mist. Travelers can visit some famous tourist spots in Tam Dao such as Silver Waterfall, Goddess of the Forest Temple, Television Tower, ancient church, Tam Dao night market,...
Specialties of Tam Dao that you must indulge in when stepping foot here include sautéed sponge gourd, wine-soaked wild boar, and earth-baked hill chicken. The average cost for a trip to Tam Dao ranges from 700,000 to 1,000,000 VND.
Sapa – Lao Cai
Sapa, a stunning retreat, is no stranger to both domestic and international tourists. With an average temperature of 15°C throughout the year, Sapa is the ideal summer destination in the North, especially from May to July.

Sapa – a fascinating summer destination (photo by st)
To fully explore the beauty of Sapa, travelers need around 2-3 days. Wander through the unique culture of Sapa at Cat Cat Village, Ta Phin, Ta Van, Cloud Bridge, Sunday Market, or admire the pristine beauty at Ham Rong Mountain, Silver Waterfall, Love Waterfall, O Quy Ho Pass... Especially, tourists can experience conquering Fansipan – the majestic and splendid scenery, often referred to as the roof of Indochina.
Sapa's cuisine is rich and diverse. Indulge in some delicious Sapa dishes like grilled village pork, armpit pig, sautéed sponge gourd, apple wine, hill chicken barbecue,... Moreover, Sapa is renowned for its delicious sturgeon and salmon hotpot, fresh and flavorful. You can combine a visit to Silver Waterfall with hands-on fishing for sturgeon and salmon right at the restaurant for cooking.
The average cost for the Sapa travel experience is approximately 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND. Don't hesitate, pack your backpack and set foot on this one-of-a-kind destination in the North now!!!
Co To Island – Quang Ninh
If you're tired of mountainous landscapes, Coto Island is the perfect suggestion for you this summer. Coto is an island consisting of pristine beaches in Quang Ninh with white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, rivaling any seaside destination. You can freely capture virtual moments with your friends amidst the beach, resembling the famous paradise of Maldives.

Coto – an ideal summer destination for beach lovers in the North (photo by st)
Traveling to Coto, you'll be enchanted by the beauty of Van Chai Beach, Hong Van Beach, Coto Baby Island, Cau My Rock Beach, Bac Ho Beach,... as well as the opportunity to explore the Coto lighthouse station, Love Road, Ho Chi Minh Memorial House,...
Coto's seafood is incredibly fresh and budget-friendly. You must try all the specialties here such as finger snails, sea cucumbers, flashing squid, razor clams, king crabs, Coto sea urchins, sea cucumbers,... These are the delicious dishes in Coto famous for captivating the taste buds of seafood enthusiasts every year.
For just 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 VND, you can freely enjoy the scenery, beach bathing, and indulge in the travel destination hailed as the paradise of Quang Ninh.
Hoping that vntrip.vn's insights here will help you choose an interesting affordable Northern summer travel destination with many fantastic experiences!
