Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Thanh Hoa You Must Visit

This is the starting point of the Central Vietnam Heritage Trail, where you can visit the impressive Ho Dynasty Citadel, a testament to the reign of King Ho Quy Ly. Despite the passage of over 600 years, with both historical upheaval and natural wear, the outer walls of the citadel remain remarkably intact. The fortress is constructed from finely crafted green limestone blocks, measuring around 1.5 meters long and some reaching as high as 6 meters, weighing several tons. These stone blocks are tightly stacked without any binding agents, standing firm through the ages.

Built during a pivotal time in Vietnamese history, marked by significant reforms of the Ho dynasty and the drive to protect national independence, the Ho Dynasty Citadel is a key cultural landmark of a civilization that, though brief, left an enduring legacy. When you visit, don't forget to try the famous 'Che Lam Phu Quang' — a crunchy sweet made from sticky rice, molasses, peanuts, and ginger — along with a refreshing cup of green tea.

Thanh Hoa is a region renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes. One of the most iconic spiritual and ecological destinations in this land of the Ma River’s folk songs is the Cẩm Lương Sacred Fish Stream. This stream is a true marvel of nature, famous not only for its untouched beauty but also for the mysterious legends surrounding it.

Located at the foot of the Truong Sinh Mountain, this clear stream is home to thousands of fish, and is intertwined with the fascinating local stories passed down by the villagers. Near the stream, you can also find the beautiful Cây Đăng Cave, filled with stunning stalactites. Additionally, if you're lucky, you might spot a giant fish weighing up to 30kg. Despite the large number of fish packed together, the water remains remarkably clear. Be sure to visit the Cẩm Lương Sacred Fish Stream in Thanh Hoa to enjoy the fresh mountain air and immerse yourself in the region's enchanting tales and unique local specialties!

Pù Luông Nature Reserve is located 130 km northwest of Thanh Hoa city and approximately 150 km from Hanoi. The road to Pù Luông, whether coming from Hanoi or Thanh Hoa, is easily accessible, even the winding mountain paths. A visit to Pù Luông means stepping into a world of villages surrounded by terraced rice fields, lush green forests, rolling mountain ranges, and refreshing streams and waterfalls.

Waking up early to walk through the fields, feeling the misty clouds embrace you, and gently brushing your hands through dewy rice stalks, are rare moments of peace you won't often find in your everyday life. Another amazing experience here is when the first warm rays of sunlight touch your skin, as you observe the simple, tranquil life of the locals.

In the paradise of Pù Luông, you’ll often witness clouds and mist drifting lazily through the valleys before rising into the sky, mirrored by infinity pools that enhance the dreamy landscape. The picturesque scenery, with mountains blending into the sky, fields of green mixed with vibrant golden hues, and a cozy seating area surrounded by flowers, creates a perfect landscape painting.

Bến En National Park is an enchanting eco-tourism destination, known for its stunning mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes. Among its highlights is the 3,000-hectare Mực River Lake, which is dotted with over 20 islands of various sizes. A boat ride on the river while savoring dishes made from local fish, as well as exploring the customs and traditions of the Thai people, provides memorable experiences at Bến En. Early morning boat rides, when the islands are still shrouded in mist, offer a surreal feeling, as if entering a magical world of water, clouds, and sky. Among the 21 islands, many are poetically named: Love, Happiness, Twin Mountains, and Hope.

It’s no wonder that those who have visited Bến En affectionately call it the “Ha Long Bay on land” of Thanh Hoa. While leisurely exploring the lake, you can venture into the forest where you’ll be captivated by the vibrant banana trees in full bloom, monkeys leaping from tree to tree to drink from the lake, and the symphony of birdsong creating a beautiful chorus of the ancient forest. From a distance, you may catch sight of the smoke rising from the Mường and Thai villages, warming the quiet mountain air.

Đông Sơn Village was once part of Đông Giang commune, Đông Sơn district (Thanh Hoa), and is now located in Hàm Rồng ward, Thanh Hoa city. This ancient village is famous not only in Thanh Hoa but throughout Vietnam. The name Đông Sơn has been known by many Western scholars since the last century. Situated on the southern bank of the Ma River, near the legendary Hàm Rồng Bridge, Đông Sơn embodies all the classic features of a traditional Vietnamese village. The village’s layout is centered around agricultural life, with fields of rice and hilly terrain. The system of cultural landmarks, such as the communal house, pagoda, and shrine, are thoughtfully positioned, creating a harmonious scene with familiar sights like the roof of the communal house and the village well.

Few villages in Vietnam have a history as long and continuous as Đông Sơn. The village is considered a 'living chronicle,' reflecting the ongoing development of Vietnamese society from the time of the Hung Kings to the present. Its history is deeply intertwined with the many ups and downs of Thanh Hoa's land and people over the centuries.

Ma Hao Waterfall is located at the foot of Chí Linh Mountain, in Năng Cát village, Trí Nang commune, Lang Chánh district, Thanh Hoa province, about 45 km northwest of the Lam Kinh historical site. To reach Ma Hao, visitors can take the Ho Chi Minh route, passing through Ngọc Lặc town, then turn left at the intersection near km 541 onto National Route 15A, and continue for about 10 km into the center of Lang Chánh district, where the waterfall awaits.

To this day, Ma Hao Waterfall remains unspoiled, untouched by human intervention. This makes it an ideal destination for those who seek adventure and love exploring natural wonders. Visitors can come here to enjoy the peaceful tranquility of a journey back to nature, breathing in the fresh, unspoiled air that is filled with the pure essence of the wild.

Currently, Ma Hao Waterfall is part of the Năng Cát ecological tourism area in Lang Chánh district. A visit here offers the chance to discover the lives and rich culture of the local Thai ethnic people.

Elephant Waterfall is located in Thành Vân commune, Thạch Thành district, Thanh Hoa, and has long been a popular tourist attraction. The scenery here resembles a beautiful landscape painting, a gift of nature to the people of Thanh Hoa. While it hasn’t been developed to the fullest, the road to the Elephant Waterfall ecological area has improved, making access easier. The natural beauty of the area remains pristine and serene.

The surroundings are still quite untouched, with fresh, crystal-clear waters flowing under the canopy of forest trees, offering a refreshing experience. According to local elders, the story goes that when General Quang Trung Nguyễn Huệ marched north, he came across a large water source in the forest during his crossing of the Tam Điệp mountain range. He allowed his war elephants to bathe in the water, and after refreshing themselves, the elephants trumpeted loudly, echoing through the mountains. The water source, which had no name at the time, became known as Hốc Voi, and later, the waterfall area was named Elephant Waterfall.

Today, this site is truly an appealing destination for travelers. Standing under the powerful waterfall, feeling the cool spray, is a refreshing experience amidst the enchanting natural surroundings. The cascading water forms a frothy mist, and the constant roar of the waterfall sounds like a dragon spouting water. Elephant Waterfall has become a beloved eco-tourism spot in the western region of Thanh Hoa. Although services are still basic, they meet the needs of visitors and are gradually turning this place into a popular destination for both locals and travelers from afar.

With a beauty that seems like a masterpiece gifted by nature, the cool streams and stunning landscape of Thac May (located in Thach Lam Commune, Thach Thanh District) have become one of the top destinations, attracting thousands of visitors seeking to escape the summer heat. It also offers fascinating experiences with the culture and lifestyle of the Muong ethnic group in Thanh Hoa.

With its stone steps leading from the base to the top, paired with the crystal-clear water that cascades beautifully, Thac May creates a unique beauty that also makes it easier for visitors to explore the falls. Whether viewed from afar or up close, the waterfall enchants visitors with its mesmerizing allure.

For many years, Thac May has been a popular summer retreat for travelers. Its clear, cool waters offer a refreshing escape from the scorching heat. Each level of the falls features small “swimming pools” with clear, refreshing water, providing an ideal spot for tourists to cool off. At the base of the falls, the Muong people have started offering community-based tourism (homestays) to accommodate the growing number of tourists, both local and international.

Cong Troi Eco-tourism Area is located in Xuan Quy Commune, Như Xuân District, about a 10-minute drive from Yen Cat town. Only 3 km from National Highway 1A, visitors will find themselves in a breathtaking natural haven surrounded by a pristine forest and a waterfall cascading from great heights, creating a stunning and untouched landscape. The waterfall is formed by several streams flowing from the top of the Bu Mun mountain, which stands over 1,000 meters above sea level. From the mountain peak, the waters weave through deep crevices, rocky cliffs, and thick vegetation, eventually merging into the Chuoi village, Xuan Quy Commune, where the majestic Cong Troi Waterfall is formed.

To explore and experience the wonders of nature here, visitors can follow the winding trails through the lush jungle, with vibrant trees, flowers, and fluttering butterflies leading the way to the waterfall’s peak. The journey allows guests to enjoy the peaceful symphony of gurgling water, birdsong, and the stunning surroundings of this grandiose natural landscape.

After trekking 200 meters from the base of the waterfall, visitors will reach the Mother Waterfall, named after a local Thai legend and their ancient belief in Water Gods. From the top, visitors can marvel at the vast beauty of the surrounding forests and waterfalls. Beyond the majestic falls, the area also attracts nature lovers with its rich flora, including rare orchids, medicinal plants like He Shou Wu, and valuable trees such as green ironwood and chò chi. The fauna here is equally diverse, with numerous species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians.

Golden Cow Farm (in Luong Son Commune, Thuong Xuan District) is a popular destination offering a variety of exciting experiences. Spanning nearly 20 hectares, the farm is home to vegetable and flower gardens, traditional stilt houses for accommodation, livestock pens, and a petting zoo. The refreshing, cool air makes it an ideal place for visitors to enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and tasting farm-to-table meals.

The farm covers almost 20 hectares and includes gardens for vegetables and flowers, stilt houses for lodging, livestock farming, and a zoo. The special charm of this farm lies in its fresh, cool atmosphere, which makes it perfect for various outdoor activities like hill climbing, enjoying meals made with fresh produce, or snapping some memorable photos in the picturesque surroundings.

Though only half of the land has been developed for farming and construction, Golden Cow Farm attracts thousands of visitors each week. It has quickly become one of the must-visit spots in Thuong Xuan District, contributing to the diversification of tourism in the area and helping to ease the pressure on coastal resorts during the busy summer months.

Bai Dong is a coastal area located on the Nghi Son Peninsula, in Tinh Gia District, Thanh Hoa. About 60 kilometers from the city center, it is becoming a popular destination for tourists from northern Vietnam, offering the perfect escape for a short getaway, especially during the scorching summer days when temperatures soar to 39-40°C.

The rocky beach at Bai Dong is also a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts. Large round rocks scattered across the sea create an incredibly picturesque setting. At Bai Dong, there is a refreshing coconut water stand by the shore where visitors can sit, sip on a fresh coconut (priced at 30,000 VND), and savor the taste of the sea. You can also enjoy a relaxing time on the swing or the slide while soaking in the fresh sea breeze.

When visiting Bai Dong Thanh Hoa, don't miss the stunning sunset view. The sky turns a deep red as the sun slowly sets over the horizon, creating a truly spectacular scene. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Lam Kinh (also known as Tay Kinh) is located in Xuan Lam Commune, Tho Xuan District, around 52 kilometers northwest of Thanh Hoa city. The Lam Kinh Historical Site spans roughly 30 hectares and includes royal tombs, temples, and a palace once used by the Le Dynasty kings during their visits to honor their ancestors. The northern section of the temple complex is backed by Mount Dau, while it faces south, overlooking the Chu River. The majestic Chua Mountain serves as a natural barrier, while to the left is Phu Lam forest, and to the right, the Hương and Ham Rong Mountains protect the western entrance. This historic area is where the national hero, Le Loi, famously raised his banner of resistance against the invading Ming troops.

Similar to the Ly and Tran dynasties, who built impressive temples to pay homage to their ancestors, the Le Dynasty constructed grand shrines and tombs in Lam Son. This site served not only as the final resting place of kings, queens, and royal figures but also as a location for royal ceremonies. Lam Son was once known as the “second capital” of the Đại Việt Kingdom after Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi). The Lam Kinh Historical Site includes landmarks such as Bạch Bridge, Ngọc Well, Ngọ Môn Gate, Nam Kinh Palace, and the tombs of several Le kings including Le Thai To, Le Thai Tong, Le Thanh Tong, Le Hien Tong, and Le Tuc Tong, as well as the Thai Miếu (Royal Ancestral Temple). Since its restoration, the site has been beautifully maintained and continues to attract increasing numbers of visitors.

Located just 16 km from downtown Thanh Hoa, every summer Sam Son attracts a large number of visitors. With its expansive beaches, powerful waves, soft sand, and a variety of recreational and relaxation options, it meets the needs of all travelers. A trip to Sam Son guarantees a refreshing beach experience. You can enjoy a relaxing swim, watch the stunning sunrise and sunset, or simply take a peaceful evening stroll along the shore to fully embrace the romantic atmosphere. For a more adventurous experience, join the local fishermen for a morning net fishing session. Other activities include visiting the Thuy Tien Cung at the foot of Mount Truong Le for a thrilling experience, exploring temples on the mountainside (like the Single Leg Temple and Fairy Temple), or taking photos at the famous Hon Trong Mai (Rocky Couple).

One highlight is the picturesque road leading up to the Fairy Temple. As you walk through the lush forest with sunlight filtering through the leaves, you’ll experience a calming, natural ambiance. The winding path offers a perfect opportunity to capture beautiful photos amidst the vibrant surroundings, so be sure to snap some shots and enjoy the stunning natural beauty that awaits.

Hai Tien Beach (located in Hoang Hoa) is a newly developed beach destination, offering a variety of tourist services while maintaining its untouched, natural beauty. Here, visitors can stroll through the morning markets and buy fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Moreover, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local way of life. This location is perfect for those seeking a tranquil, untouched environment to relax and enjoy a peaceful, clean atmosphere during their holiday. You’ll fall in love with this serene paradise.

From Hai Tien Beach, visitors can venture up the Ma River to explore attractions like Lach Hoi and Con Truong, home to mangrove forests and swampy areas. You can also visit Nguyet Vien Pier, Ham Rong Pier, Ngoc Mountain, Dragon Mountain, Tien Son Cave, and Kim Quy Lake. Along the Ma River, you can listen to the traditional folk songs of Thanh Hoa while immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful region. If you have extra time, make sure to explore other famous historical sites and landmarks in Thanh Hoa, which are the pride of this area.

Ham Rong Bridge, crossing the Ma River, stands as a symbol of the resilience and indomitable spirit of the heroic Thanh Hoa region, now located in Ham Rong Ward, Thanh Hoa City. From here, visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the ancient Dong Son village, the Cánh Tiên Mountain, Ngọc Mountain, Tiên Sơn Cave, Mắt Rồng Cave, the temples dedicated to Trần Khát Chân and Lê Uy, Tăng Phúc Pagoda, and various historical and cultural landmarks in the Ham Rong - Nam Ngạn area.

Each cave in the area has its own unique beauty. The stalactites in these caves are sculpted into stunning forms, tied to legends such as the Buddha’s story, tales of fairies, “The Mountain of Fruit”, and “The Immortal Peach Festival”. Tiên Sơn Cave is a treasure trove of natural masterpieces with its main hall, underground water chamber, and a plethora of sparkling formations—each stone and stalactite telling its own mythical tale. Across from Ham Rong Mountain, visitors can spot what appears to be a dragon playfully swirling around a jade gem.

The name Ham Rong has become a symbol of strength and an enduring testament to the Vietnamese people's unyielding spirit—especially the people of Thanh Hoa. On the slopes of Cánh Tiên Mountain, visitors will also find the inspiring inscription "Quyết thắng" (“Decisive Victory”), a message that once discouraged the enemy and bolstered the will of the local warriors.