Top 15 Getaway Spots for Hanoi Youth

With its diverse natural resources and a rich cultural heritage, Cao Bang is a must-visit destination. Cao Bang is not only famous for historical landmarks like Le Nin stream and Pac Bo cave but is also gifted with the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, the second-largest transnational waterfall in the world, situated on the Vietnam-China border. Ban Gioc Waterfall is located about 90km from Cao Bang city and 400km from Hanoi, in Dam Thuy commune, Trung Khanh district. Starting from Cao Bang city, you can take the Tra Linh - Tong Cot route to reach Ban Gioc village. For adventure enthusiasts, the route through Ma Phuc Pass is an excellent choice as it offers beautiful and captivating mountainous landscapes.

Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang has long been an attractive tourist destination, especially for Hanoi's youth. Visitors not only enjoy the fresh, comfortable, and liberating atmosphere but also admire the romantic scenery of the gentle waterfall, clear streams, and majestic mountains. The climate in Cao Bang is distinctly divided into two seasons: the rainy season, lasting from April to September, and the dry season from October to March of the following year. If you plan to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall, it's best to go around August - September, when the waterfall is most beautiful. This unique, interesting, and appealing tourist spot is only about 370km from Hanoi. You can travel by car or motorbike, but riding a motorbike is recommended to fully enjoy the fresh and cool air here!

Mau Son is known as a resort area dating back to the French colonial period with dozens of ancient houses built, now abandoned. The highest area of the Mau Son mountain range is about 30 km east of Lang Son city, less than 180 km from the capital Hanoi, and adjacent to the border between Vietnam and China. The vegetation in Mau Son is quite diverse over an area of ​​nearly 5,000 hectares of forest. The natural forest here has many rare and precious species such as oak, fir, aloeswood, Chinese holly, and thuja. Some flowers such as rhododendron and beautiful orchids are only found in this mountainous region. Due to the unique convergence of factors in natural landscape and biodiversity, Mau Son has become a famous scenic spot in Lang Son, known as the “fairy scene on earth,” like the second Sapa of Northern Vietnam. In addition to the natural values, Mau Son is also especially attractive for its cultural, spiritual, and pure ethnic cultural values of the local community.

You should visit Mau Son in the summer (around September), the weather on Mau Son is always cool, suitable for a relaxing vacation with friends or family. For those who like the cold of winter or simply are curious about the phenomenon of snow, choose a time around January each year, pay attention to check the weather forecast for when the cold air arrives. If you want to take your girlfriend to admire the winter snow this year but lack the budget for an overseas trip. Don't worry because in our country, we also have places covered in beautiful snow. When you come to Mau Son in Lang Son in the winter, you will not only be surprised, overwhelmed by the sight of snow covering the forests, rice fields, houses, and even the roads. But you also have the opportunity to enjoy unique and attractive local dishes such as: Bánh áp chao (grilled rice paper), roasted duck, sour pho... At the same time, you can also visit famous historical sites in Lang Son.

Tam Dao is located about 80km from Hanoi, discovered and developed by the French from the late 19th century. A series of constructions such as villas, dance floors, swimming pools, playgrounds, and bustling restaurants were built in Tam Dao, but after many historical ups and downs, not much remains. With a cool climate throughout the year and majestic mountainous landscapes, it is an ideal tourist destination near Hanoi for a relaxing weekend. Here, you can feel the transition of the four seasons in a day. In the morning, there is a gentle spring breeze, the warm sun of summer at noon, the leisurely autumn breeze in the afternoon, and the cold of winter in the evening. Don't forget to book a hotel in Tam Dao to experience the wonderful nature here.

The weather in Tam Dao offers tourists many unique experiences, such as gentle spring breezes in the early morning, the warm rays of summer during the day, the faint autumn breeze in the evening, and the cold of winter when night falls. Therefore, choosing a hotel in Tam Dao for rest and relaxation is something tourists should not miss. Mentioning Tam Dao - a challenging road with many twists and turns, unique local delicacies, and charming scenery. This place is just over 80km from Hanoi, and you can go by motorbike or car. When coming to Tam Dao, you can book a hotel with full facilities or bring a tent to camp overnight in this romantic place. Tam Dao tourism has many attractive places for you to explore, such as Tam Dao Church, Thac Ba chua thuong ngan, Silver waterfall, television tower, etc. Also, don't forget to try the famous local specialty - delicious su su (vegetable pear) when you are here.

From Hanoi, it only takes about 5 hours by car to reach Moc Chau Plateau. This place is often referred to as the 'Northwest Dalat'. Moc Chau welcomes tourists in both winter and summer, sunny days or misty days. Regardless of the weather, this land has an indescribable beauty; you can only go and feel it. The plateau is nicknamed the 'flower paradise' because at any time of the year, tourists coming here are mesmerized by the myriad of vibrant flowers. Moc Chau has many famous attractions, including: Heart-shaped tea hill in Tan Lap, Ang Pine Forest, Dai Yem waterfall, Ban On cave system, Happy Land, Pha Luong peak, Moc Ly fortress, ethnic villages like Pa Phach - Ban Lun - Ban Thung Cuong, Long Sap border gate. What else is attractive? It's the diverse and rich Northwestern cuisine, an opportunity to learn about the beauty of the culture of the Thai and H'mong ethnic groups. Indeed, this region is worth a visit at least once in a lifetime.

Every season, Moc Chau adorns itself with different 'outfits'. Sometimes it's the endless green grass fields, the vast white mustard fields, other times it's the pink of peach blossoms, the pure white of plum blossoms covering the sky. January, February: Pink cherry blossoms, white plum blossoms covering the entire sky. March, April: The color of Ban flowers recalls the love story between Khum and Ban. Head towards Son La city, and you will encounter mesmerizing scenery. May - August: Ripe plums and triangular flower fields: taste the fresh, ripe plums from the trees. In Moc Chau during this season, you'll also find the triangular flower fields planted by locals for tourism. October - December: Wild sunflowers bloom brightly yellow, and white mustard flowers blossom delicately. Coming to Moc Chau in winter, besides admiring flowers, you can enjoy the cool, refreshing air.

Co To is an archipelago consisting of about 50 islands located in the east of Quang Ninh province with an area of 46.2 km². The island district of Co To currently has 1,500 households, with nearly 6,000 people. The Co To archipelago has more than 50 islands, large and small, among which Big Co To and Small Co To are the two islands with the most beautiful beaches. This is also a place with great potential for tourism development. Co To Island is the perfect choice for young people seeking wilderness, tranquility with pristine and romantic beaches. Besides swimming, tourists can also explore the natural forest, lighthouse, memorial area and statue of Ho Chi Minh, ports, fishing villages, bays, and natural rock formations. Not to be missed is the delicious and affordable seafood such as sea cucumbers, sea squirts, razor clams, abalones, and squid... The friendly locals and reasonable service prices suit your budget. When visiting

Co To Island, you can buy fresh and delicious seafood or choose from a variety of impressive souvenirs made from shells, pearls, and snail shells.

Cau My Rock Beach is known as the paradise of love and youth amid the waves of Co To. The entire area resembles a mouse tail, facing the sea, located to the south of Big Co To Island. Cau My, with its system of sedimentary rocks eroded over thousands of years by the sea, creates a unique wonder in Vietnam's islands. Besides the rocky beach, high points allow you to admire the panoramic landscape of this area, which will undoubtedly make you feel like you are in the Mediterranean. In addition, Co To Lighthouse in the eastern part of Van Don Island, Quang Ninh province, located on a mountain about 5 km from the town, is the highest point on the island, built since the late 19th century. The road from the foot of the mountain to the lighthouse winds through lush greenery, thick forests, and rocky paths that few have ventured through.

Mù Cang Chải District, situated in the mountainous region of Yen Bai province, is nearly 300 km northwest of Hanoi. Mù Cang Chải has become a captivating destination for many young couples with its golden ripened rice terraces. The rice ripens in Mù Cang Chải around September and October. The golden terraced fields create a beautiful and majestic scenery. This period attracts thousands of enthusiasts to come and admire the most beautiful terraced fields in the country during this autumn season. Each terraced field, undulating like golden waves, shines in the brilliant sunlight, captivating those who are present.

The most beautiful terraced rice fields are usually found in La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, and De Xu Phinh communes. You can stand on Khau Pha Pass to admire the panoramic view of the Northwest mountains and observe the ripe golden rice fields spreading across the sky. The Sticky Rice Hill in La Pan Tan commune is one of the famous attractions during the Mù Cang Chải golden season, attracting tourists to visit. From above, overlooking the hills, you can still see the intertwining shades of green and shining yellow. The H'Mong people harvest rice differently from the plains. When harvesting ripe rice, they do not use sickles but small knives about 20cm long. With nimble hands, they cut about five rice panicles at a time, spreading them on the field instead of bundling. A large wooden box is pulled into the field to thresh the rice. Young and old, everyone contributes to the harvest. As they harvest, they chat happily along the mountain slope, making it a fascinating experience.

Sapa Town is located 38km from Lao Cai City and over 300km from Hanoi. When visiting Sapa, you can easily rent a motorbike for convenience, with prices ranging from 100,000 to 120,000 VND. Nestled in the Northwest of the country, Sapa holds the wonders of nature and human culture. The town, shrouded in mist, charms visitors with its majestic mountains and the unique experience of the ethnic minority people's lives. The natural landscape of Sapa, combined with human creativity and the terrain of mountains and hills, the green of the forest, resembles a painting arranged in harmonious composition, creating a region with many attractive and picturesque scenes. From the city center, you can feast your eyes on the towering mountain peaks… Visiting Sapa provides opportunities to conquer the famous Fansipan peak or embark on a trek to hidden villages in the mist. The mountainous scenery, with fields of flowers blooming, and the interplay of 'clouds embracing mountains, mountains embracing clouds' will undoubtedly captivate the hearts of visitors who set foot in this place.

Some must-visit places in Sapa include: Ham Rong Mountain, where you can stand on the mountain top to admire the entire panorama of Sapa, or the Muong Hoa Valley, Tả Phìn hidden in the smoke, the stone church in Sapa, Cat Cat village, and the Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall... When is the best time to visit Sapa? The answer is you can come here at any time of the year, but the most suitable periods are from September to November or from March to May. During these times, Sapa has stable weather, dry days, and cool nights. In April - May, it is the season when ethnic minorities cultivate rice on the terraced fields. This period also witnesses the blooming of many beautiful flowers. In September - October, it is the ripe rice season, and during this time, every corner of Sapa is bathed in golden hues. Around this time, Sapa adorns itself with a new coat - a shiny yellow color all over the hills. However, it is advisable to visit in mid or late September when many places have finished harvesting.

Situated in the west of Hoa Binh, bordering Moc Chau district in Son La, the valley of Mai Chau stands out as a top destination for many young enthusiasts of both natural beauty and the culture of the mountainous ethnic groups. If you seek to explore the unique aspects of our country's ethnic cultures, then Mai Chau is the place to be. Located 130km from Hanoi, to the west of Hoa Binh, it is an ideal destination to experience the life of the ethnic people in the Northwest mountains. Mai Chau is known for its picturesque small valley, tranquil and nestled amidst the majestic hills of the Northwest in revolutionary poetry. During peacetime, Mai Chau's valley is simple, rustic, yet possesses a unique beauty that attracts countless visitors who come to admire and experience its charm.

Visiting Mai Chau, you can explore places like: Poom Coọng Village, Mỏ Luông Cave. Enjoy traditional dishes such as: Bamboo-tube rice, mountainous sticky rice, and grilled pork... The friendly and hospitable locals allow you to experience the life of the Thai ethnic people. Mai Chau is a suitable destination in all seasons, and you can discover its beauty throughout the year. November - February: Winter season, chilly air, cherry blossoms, and plum blossoms paint a white corner of Mai Chau. March - April: Pleasant weather, Ban flowers bloom. May - August: The climate is cool, though there are no flowers, you can pick plums and peaches. Early September sees the Independence Day celebration, attracting thousands of domestic and international tourists.

Hà Giang, the northernmost land of our homeland, captivates hearts with its majestic limestone mountains, the legendary Dong Van Plateau, and winding roads, along with terraced fields that resemble masterpieces. In October, Hà Giang is also renowned for its extensive fields of vibrant pink buckwheat flowers, stretching to the horizon. The buckwheat flower season in Hà Giang lasts from early October to the end of December. Unlike buckwheat flowers in other places, these have a delicate pink hue, spreading across large fields along the roads, valleys, and even creeping on rocky cliffs. The vast flower fields create a picturesque and grandiose scene. Exploring these fields of triangular buckwheat flowers with your loved ones or friends is an experience beyond compare. So, pack your bags and head to Hà Giang immediately. You can admire these flowers at the foot of Ma Pi Leng Pass, Lũng Cú Flagpole, or the cultural village of Lũng Cẩm...

However, buckwheat flowers are often concentrated on the route from Xi Man to Hoang Su Phì, with beautiful fields of buckwheat flowers competing to show off their colors. The buckwheat flower typically has a lifespan of about a month. When it first blooms, it is white, then changes to pale pink, violet, and finally dark red. In addition to the fields of buckwheat flowers, Hà Giang also boasts other must-visit tourist attractions. You can visit places like Lũng Cú Flagpole, Dong Van Old Quarter, Ma Pi Leng Pass, Twin Mountain of Quan Ba, and the historical architectural area of Vương's house. The most suitable means of transportation to travel to Hà Giang is to take a passenger bus from Hanoi and rent a motorbike in the city of Hà Giang to explore Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, Mèo Vạc…

Duong Lam Ancient Village, located in Son Tay District, Hanoi, is only about 44km from the city center. Duong Lam is the homeland of Ngo Quyen and Phung Hung, hence it is called the 'land of two kings.' To this day, Duong Lam village still preserves the fundamental characteristics of a Northern village with its village gate, banyan tree, water wharf, communal yard, and 956 traditional houses. In 2006, Duong Lam became the first ancient village in Vietnam to be awarded the National Historical and Cultural Heritage Certificate by the State. When entering the village gate, you will be amazed by the ancient and serene space of a village that still retains the colors of time. The hustle and bustle of modern life seem to be pushed aside. Here, you can visit valuable historical and cultural relics such as Phung Hung Communal House, Ngo Quyen Temple, and the temple dedicated to the scholar Giang Van Minh...

You can visit Duong Lam Ancient Village at any time of the year. However, festival season and ripening rice season are the most suitable times for a trip. The village festival takes place in January of the lunar calendar every year. The traditional festival of Mong Phu village lasts from the 4th to the 10th day and is considered the most sacred festival of the year. The Thanh Hoang Temple festival is held at the oldest ancient village temple with activities such as processions, offering pigs and chickens. Afterward, the villagers participate in traditional games such as human chess, Chinese chess, cockfighting, blindfolded duck catching, creating a lively and bustling festival atmosphere. Six days later, the festival in Dong Sang village is organized to pray for national peace and a fruitful harvest with exciting activities such as lion dancing, water procession, and rituals. The water procession starts from the village temple to the Red River with dragons, lions, horses, flags, and lasts for nearly a day. Visiting Duong Lam during this time, you will enjoy the lively festival atmosphere and savor the unique local dishes that are only available during the festival.

Just over 30 minutes by motorbike from the center of the capital, you'll reach Bat Trang - the famous pottery village, a must-visit destination near Hanoi. If you want to create memorable items with your loved one, come to Bat Trang pottery village. This ancient village, located in Gia Lam district, is renowned for its ceramic products. At the entrance of Bat Trang village, you'll find vases, flowerpots, and ceramic statues displayed throughout the village. Here, you can admire and buy charming ceramic products from the market and family stores. You can explore and purchase exquisite ceramic items.

Not only can you freely browse, but the shop owners will also introduce you to the production process of various items, such as the techniques of painting patterns and color mixing applied by skilled artisans. Moreover, you have the opportunity to try your hand at making pottery in small workshops. You can experience molding and creating your own products. The service fee for one painting or molding session ranges from 15 to 30 thousand VND, but you won't take the product home. If you want to take your handmade product, the average price will be from 40 to 60 thousand VND, depending on the item. In addition, Bat Trang offers special local dishes such as 'banh te' and cuttlefish bone soup. Visitors are recommended to buy dried cuttlefish bone to bring back as a gift or use for cooking later. Consider booking a hotel in Gia Lam for convenience while exploring this interesting destination.

Cat Ba, despite being a well-established resort destination, still maintains its pristine charm. Visitors will step onto long, smooth, and white sandy beaches, immerse themselves in the cool, azure waters, and listen to the soothing sound of the waves – a delightful experience for your trip.

Located only about 60km from Hai Phong city, Cat Ba is a popular choice for weekend getaways. Unmissable activities on Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong include taking a boat tour to Lan Ha Bay, visiting Monkey Island, kayaking, exploring the fishing village of Cai Beo, and visiting Cat Ba National Park. After the journey, to recharge your energy, don't forget to savor the famous seafood of this coastal area, such as steamed sea snails, salt-roasted mantis shrimp, spicy grilled sam, steamed green crabs, and grilled squid.

With its picturesque natural scenery and renowned specialties, Cat Ba is undoubtedly a worthwhile destination for a weekend escape with friends.

Tràng An Scenic Complex is located in Ninh Binh province, approximately 90km from the center of Hanoi. To reach Trang An from Hanoi, it takes about a 2-hour motorcycle ride. Trang An - Ninh Binh possesses a serene beauty, from its geological features to the natural scenery. In 2014, the Trang An landscape complex was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site. With its picturesque natural scenery, this is undoubtedly the one-day Northern Vietnam travel destination you must visit.

Trang An features majestic mountains surrounded by winding streams. Mysterious caves and pristine valleys contribute to the enchanting beauty of nature here. According to travel enthusiasts, exploring Trang An by boat is a must to fully appreciate its beauty. On a small boat, surrounded by mountains, water, and caves, each moment captivates the visitors. This is also a perfect place for Instagram-worthy photos. In addition to Trang An, Ninh Binh offers many other famous attractions such as Thung Nham Bird Garden, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trinh Temple, Tam Coc – Bich Dong... Travelers can combine these destinations for a one-day, cost-effective, and fascinating journey.

If you're tired of the hustle and bustle of urban life, let's enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Northwest mountains with a journey to explore Tà Xùa – the paradise on earth. Tà Xùa is a mountainous area in Bắc Yên district, bordered by Trạm Tấu district in Yên Bái and Bắc Yên district in Sơn La. The region is famous for its cloud-covered landscapes, attracting many travel enthusiasts.

From January to March is the ideal time to hunt for clouds in Tà Xùa. The whole valley is immersed in a sea of clouds, with white mist and dew spreading across the land. Must-visit places in Tà Xùa include the dinosaur spine of Háng Đồng, the turtle head rock field, the national primeval forest, and the lonely wild apple tree at Xím Vàng junction.

Not only can you marvel at the enchanting beauty, but when you come to Tà Xùa, you can also indulge in unique, culturally rich local cuisine. Velvet antler porridge, sour salted meat, stove-guarded buffalo meat, nậm pịa (a local dish), buffalo skin salad, grilled tube rice… are definitely on the must-try food list.

Lake Ba Be is the perfect choice for nature lovers seeking its gentle beauty. Ba Be Lake is also ranked by UNESCO as one of the 20 most beautiful freshwater lakes in the world. Here, you'll find a serene lake surrounded by majestic limestone mountains, pristine caves, and ancient trees that have stood for thousands of years.

Ba Be Lake, with its picturesque scenery of lush green mountains and crystal-clear water, is ideal for exploring by boat. Nestled deep within the limestone mountains are mysterious caves. You won't want to leave this place, especially after savoring the local specialties.

The locals call Ba Be the “green lungs,” playing a crucial role in regulating the water source. Due to the geological and hydrological influences, Ba Be has never run out of water. This interesting feature attracts many scientists and tourists alike. With a one-day itinerary, after a boat ride to admire the lake, visit caves, you can explore many surrounding scenic spots such as An Ma Temple, Fairy Pond, Widow Island… Next, visit the Ba Be National Park to explore Puong Cave, Hua Ma Cave, Dau Dang Waterfall, Den Do Cave…