Discover the top 15 most stunning destinations in Northeast Vietnam for your next check-in adventure!

Northeast Vietnam is blessed with abundant natural wonders, from majestic mountain ranges to charming ethnic minority villages. Explore the rugged trails winding through towering peaks and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the highlands. Moreover, Northeast Vietnam offers a delightful climate and refreshing air, ensuring a pleasant journey for travelers. Let's explore the hottest tourist attractions in Northeast Vietnam with Mytour!

1. Introduction to Tourism in Northeast Vietnam - Vietnam

Rarely does any region in Vietnam possess such a wealth of natural treasures as Northeast Vietnam, with its golden forests and silver mountains. Travelers to Northeast Vietnam not only get to experience the lush forests and pristine beaches but also immerse themselves in a myriad of cultures from various ethnic groups. Even depicted through photographs, the breathtaking beauty of this land never fails to astonish. Before unveiling the 15 most beautiful tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam, let's delve into a brief overview of this sunny and windy land with Mytour.

1.1 Which provinces are included in the Northeast region?

The Northeast mountainous region comprises a total of 9 provinces: Bac Kan, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Thai Nguyen, Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Bac Giang, and Quang Ninh. Among these, tourism in Ha Giang and Quang Ninh stands out with their numerous breathtaking landscapes in the Northeast region.

Tourism in the Northeast is becoming a trend in recent years (Image source: Collected)

Northeast Vietnam is situated in one of the most strategic locations in Vietnam, known as the 'land at the forefront of the Motherland'. With its borders to the east and north adjoining China, the Northeast has gradually become the main artery of the Bac Bo Gulf. Encompassing an area of approximately 82,000 km2, the Northeast is one of the regions with the most scenic spots and abundant resources in the country.

1.2 When is the best time to visit Northeast tourist attractions?

Throughout the four seasons, the Northeast region boasts magnificent and unique natural landscapes. Due to its high altitude, the climate in Northeast Vietnam is cool and pleasant year-round. This is why Northeast tourist destinations attract a large number of visitors from all over the world throughout the year. However, Mytour suggests 3 optimal times to visit Northeast Vietnam.

• February to March: This is the time when terraced fields are filled with the first water. Here, travelers can admire the beauty of water-filled fields resembling a picturesque painting.

• July to August: Travelers can enjoy vast green rice fields, signaling the start of a new crop season.

• November to December: Travelers can witness the romantic scenery of Dong Van rocky plateau or Quan Ba Heaven's Gate from above. Moreover, this is the time when buckwheat flowers bloom most vibrantly. Travelers can visit Dong Van, Meo Vac to admire the pink color of buckwheat fields covering the entire Northeastern horizon.

1.3 What makes Northeast tourism appealing to travelers?

It's no coincidence that many travelers are willing to return to Northeast Vietnam several times after each trip. Northeast Vietnam not only captivates visitors with its scenic landscapes but also with its unique cultural beauty. Below are the reasons why many travelers just want to 'pack their bags and head to Northeast Vietnam'.

• Unique ethnic cultural identity: Alongside Northwest Vietnam, Northeast Vietnam is home to many ethnic minority groups such as Tày, Nùng, Mông, Dao, Lô Lô, Bố Y, La Chí, Phù Lá, Cờ Lao,... Each ethnic group's cultural identity in the Northeast region showcases unique beauty through markets, craft villages, festivals, folklore, historical relics,...

• Magnificent natural landscapes: The mountainous provinces of Northeast Vietnam boast diverse terrains and scenic spots, including mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, streams, waterfalls, caves, plateaus, passes,... Some famous landmarks include Dong Van rocky plateau, Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nho Que River, Ba Be Lake, Ha Long Bay,...

• Reasonable travel expenses: Based on the travel experience in Northeast Vietnam, whether it's independent travel or tour packages, the expenses are not excessively high. From transportation costs, hotel accommodations to dining expenses, they are relatively affordable and suitable for many people's budgets. Moreover, Northeast tourist destinations are all natural attractions that do not require entrance fees. 

2. 15 most famous tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam

When it comes to Northeast Vietnam, people immediately think of the country's top tourist destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Dong Van Rocky Plateau, Yen Tu Pagoda, Quan Ba Heaven's Gate,... However, few know that Northeast Vietnam also possesses many more stunning check-in spots. Only when you truly set foot in Northeast Vietnam can you fully appreciate the magnificent and impressive beauty of this remarkable land. Below are suggestions for the 15 most beautiful tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam in 2024.

2.1 Dong Van Rocky Plateau (Ha Giang)

When mentioning 'rocky plateau', people often think of barren rocky blocks. However, Dong Van Rocky Plateau is an exception. The majestic beauty of the high mountains covered in mist, the winding perilous passes blending with romantic valleys of flowers. All of these create a Dong Van Rocky Plateau that is magnificent yet incredibly romantic and charming.

Raw and majestic landscape of Dong Van Rocky Plateau (Image source: Collected)

Especially in each different season, this Northeast tourist destination will display a new color palette with every blooming season. In January, February, travelers can admire the pure beauty of plum blossoms, peach blossoms, and mustard flowers in full bloom. Stepping into November, you will be overwhelmed by the pink and purple colors of buckwheat fields covering every path into the village.

2.2 Hoang Su Phi (Ha Giang)

If you want to admire the golden terraced fields of Ha Giang glowing in the fresh sunlight, visit Hoang Su Phi in October. Here, travelers will witness the terraced fields winding gracefully from the foot of the hill to the top of the high mountain. Every scenery paints a picture of the vibrant Northeastern nature bursting with life of a new crop season.

Hoang Su Phi is renowned for its stunning terraced fields (Image source: Collected)

Moreover, during the ripe rice seasons, the local authorities in Hoang Su Phi district organize various exciting activities. You can visit Hoang Su Phi during the flooding season (April - June) or the ripe rice season (September - October) to experience the beauty of Northeast terraced fields and participate in festivals.

2.3 Lung Cu Flagpole (Ha Giang)

It's no exaggeration to say that the 'Lung Cu Flagpole' is the 'dream' tourist destination in Northeast Vietnam for many domestic and international travelers. The Lung Cu Flagpole is the northernmost point of Vietnam, located atop the Dragon Mountain, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province.

To conquer the summit of Dragon Mountain, travelers must overcome 839 steps, divided into 3 long sections. After conquering all the steps and reaching the flagpole, a sense of pride in the country will surge within you. Casting your gaze from the top of the flagpole, you have the opportunity to fully appreciate how majestic and vast the southern land of our country is. And as you look up at the national flag flying proudly against the sky, the image of pride in a thousand-year-old civilized country will linger in your mind forever.

Lung Cu Flagpole - Pride of the Vietnamese people (Image source: Collected)

2.4 Ma Phuc Pass (Cao Bang)

Ma Phuc Pass is dubbed the most beautiful mountain pass in Cao Bang with winding roads embracing the majestic mountain ranges. On the journey across Ma Phuc Pass, travelers cannot help but admire the picturesque and serene landscapes.

Ma Phuc Pass is the most beautiful mountain pass in Cao Bang province (Image source: Collected)

Each season, Ma Phuc Pass brings its own captivating beauty. In spring, travelers will witness the lush green rice fields. As autumn arrives, the landscape of the pass is replaced by the dreamy purple color of buckwheat flowers.

2.5 Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang)

Ban Gioc Waterfall is renowned as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam. It is also the largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia. The waterfall is particularly special as it lies along the border between Vietnam and China. Cascading from a height of 70 meters over 3 stages, it creates a majestic and romantic scenery that leaves everyone in awe.

The picturesque and charming beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall (Image source: Collected)

2.6 Lake Ba Be (Bac Kan)

Not only associated with famous legends, Lake Ba Be is also praised as the 'Precious Gem' of Bac Kan. While admiring the scenery on a small boat, you will feel the rustic and charming beauty of Ba Be Lake. The lake is surrounded by vast tropical forests and majestic rocky mountains, creating a serene and beautiful space like a real-life painting. For many years, Ba Be Lake has remained one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam for travel enthusiasts.

Ba Be Lake shines like a bright gem in Northeast Vietnam (Image source: Collected)

2.7 Meo King's Palace (Ha Giang)

Meo King's Palace is a majestic architectural masterpiece of the Vuong family. Nestled in the vast Sa Phin valley, Meo King's Palace resembles a 'precious treasure.' Thanks to its ancient beauty blending various ethnic cultures, Meo King's Palace has gradually become a tourist destination in Northeast Vietnam attracting millions of visitors each year.

When in Ha Giang, Meo King's Palace is a must-visit (Image source: Collected)

2.8 Nho Que River (Ha Giang)

The Nho Que River is one of the must-visit destinations in Northeast Vietnam that has been making waves across social media recently. Few know that the Nho Que River originates from Mount Nghiem Son in Yunnan, China, flowing in a northwest-southeast direction. The upper part of the river flows from Seo Lung hamlet, Lung Cu commune to Hem Tu San, creating magnificent natural scenery that captivates the heart.

Boating on the Nho Que River is one of the most exciting experiences in Ha Giang tours (Image source: Collected)

Standing atop Ma Pi Leng Pass, tourists have the opportunity to fully admire the gentle meandering beauty of the river around the foot of the mountain. During every sunset, visitors can sit back and enjoy the charming landscapes of Ha Giang. After exploring the Nho Que River, tourists can indulge in a hot cup of coffee and savor the cool atmosphere of the Northeastern forests.

2.9 Halong Bay (Quang Ninh)

When mentioning Quang Ninh, people often immediately think of Halong Bay - One of the seven natural wonders of the world recognized by UNESCO. Truly, there are no perfect words to praise the beauty of Halong because every scenic spot in Halong is beautiful. 

From the moment you set foot in Halong, travelers cannot help but be 'stirred' by the majestic and unique natural scenery. From hundreds of thousands of small and large islands, lush green vegetation to crystal-clear blue water, everything makes people feel excited and enchanted.

The charming and romantic landscape of Halong Bay leaves everyone nostalgic (Image source: Collected)

Visiting Halong Bay, travelers not only admire the beauty but also participate in exciting activities. The most outstanding is kayaking on the bay, trekking on the sharp rocky mountains, or exploring mysterious caves. With countless interesting and attractive things, Halong Bay has been listed among the famous Northeast tourism destinations for decades.

2.10 Hùng Temple (Phú Thọ)

Although not a scenic spot, Hùng Temple is one of the famous tourist attractions in Northeast Vietnam. This national historical relic site is where the Hung Kings - Ancestors of the Vietnamese people - are worshiped. This place is closely associated with the Hung Kings' Commemoration Day - Hùng Kings Temple Festival, held annually on the 10th day of the third lunar month. Every year, Vietnamese people gather here to pay homage and express gratitude for the merits of the Hung Kings in building and preserving the country. 

2.11 Twin Mountains and Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate (Hà Giang)

Not just a super 'hot' tourist spot in Northeast Vietnam, Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate is also among the top 5 most beautiful heaven's gates in the S-shaped country. From the highest peak of the heaven’s gate, travelers cannot help but be overwhelmed by the vast forests, blooming flower valleys, and golden ripe rice fields.

Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Ha Giang (Source: Collection)

Far off in the distance beside the heaven’s gate is the Twin Mountains (Fairy Mountains) with incredibly impressive shapes. It's no exaggeration to say that the Twin Mountains are a spectacular masterpiece bestowed by nature upon Ha Giang. When visiting Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate at dawn, travelers have the opportunity to admire the thick blanket of mist, resembling a celestial paradise.

2.12 Sung La Village (Hà Giang)

Immerse yourself in the clouds carried by the wind, leading you to the picturesque Sung La Village adorned with blooming white plum blossoms along the pathways. This tourist spot in Northeast Vietnam was once a backdrop in the 2006 film “The Story of Pao.”

Sung La Village is a stunning village that evokes an inexplicable sense of serenity (Source: Collection)

The first impressive thing upon arriving at Sung La Village is the pleasant, fresh, and strangely peaceful atmosphere. Ahead lie the rice fields interspersed with drifting white clouds. Gazing into the distance, one can see rows of mountains stretching endlessly, creating a magnificent skyline.

2.13 Vai Miếu Lake (Thái Nguyên)

Vai Miếu Lake is a tranquil body of water nestled amidst the rugged, peaceful, and picturesque scenery of Thái Nguyên. Visitors here can indulge in photo shoots, sightseeing, and boating. While Vai Miếu Lake may not be the hottest tourist destination in Northeast Vietnam now, it is predicted to attract more visitors in the future.

Previously, Vai Miếu Lake was constructed in the late 20th century for agricultural purposes. However, thanks to its natural beauty and tranquility, the lake gradually became a popular check-in spot for many tourists.

2.14 Cô Tô Island (Quảng Ninh)

It would be remiss not to mention Cô Tô Island in the list of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam. Cô Tô is an island district located in the eastern part of Quảng Ninh Province, about 80 km from the mainland. Cô Tô is famous for its pristine, majestic small islands that captivate visitors.

Any scenery in Cô Tô has the potential to produce 'thousand likes' photos (Source: Collection)

Cô Tô isn't just a vacation spot for many families but also a 'million-view coordinates' for check-ins and admiring sunrise and sunset. If you're in need of a perfect destination to relax and unwind, there's no place quite like Cô Tô.

2.15 Mount Yên Tử (Quảng Ninh)

Mount Yên Tử, a majestic peak situated on the border between Quảng Ninh and Bắc Giang provinces, stands at an elevation of 1068 meters. Unlike other tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam, Mount Yên Tử is a renowned spiritual tourism site with a vast and ancient relic system. Visitors to Mount Yên Tử can pay homage, pray for peace, and immerse themselves in the sacred mountain forest space. A trip to Mount Yên Tử promises to help travelers relieve stress and worries in daily life.

Mount Yên Tử has become a famous spiritual tourism destination in recent years (Source: Collection)

3. Essential Preparations for Northeast Travel

Due to its location in a vast highland area, Northeast Vietnam experiences rather harsh weather conditions. This is particularly true for tourist spots in Northeast Vietnam situated near the border region. Therefore, meticulous and thorough preparation of equipment, clothing, and essentials is essential.

3.1 Appropriate Attire for Northeast Travel

• In Summer: It's advisable to bring along a lightweight jacket for warmth in the evenings.

• In Winter: Don't forget to pack winter clothing along with accessories for warmth such as: Woolen hat, scarf, woolen sweater, sunglasses, umbrella, etc. Additionally, consider bringing a padded jacket, leather jacket to keep warm and prevent colds caused by sudden drizzles.

3.2 Footwear

Avoid bringing flip-flops or high heels as the terrain in Northeast Vietnam is quite rugged and slippery. This can pose a danger to you. Instead, opt for shoes with high friction, providing comfort and convenience for mountain climbing or long walks.

3.3 Essential Items to Bring Along

• Sunscreen.

• Flashlight, power bank.

• 4G SIM card with internet connection.

• Personal items (toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, towel,...)

• Medical supplies: Specialized medications such as cold medicine, motion sickness medicine, mosquito repellent,...

Here's the complete detailed information about the most beautiful northeast travel destinations for your check-in. With insights from Mytour, you're bound to capture those 'thousand likes' photos at the scenic spots of Northeast. If you're looking for affordable, all-inclusive Northeast travel tours, feel free to reach out to the hotline Mytour for complimentary advice!