Things To Do
in Hà Tĩnh
Hà Tĩnh is a coastal province in central Vietnam, bordered by Nghệ An to the north and Quảng Bình to the south, with a landscape of mountains meeting the sea. It combines rugged hills, forested reserves, and sweeping beaches such as Thiên Cầm, all dotted with fishing villages and welcoming markets. The province has a rich wartime and cultural heritage, underscored by scenic drives, historic tunnels, and traditional crafts.
Visitors are drawn to Vu Quang National Park, vibrant seafood cuisine, and a laid‑back pace that makes for relaxed street‑level exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Square in the heart of Hà Tĩnh, where you can admire the statue of Uncle Ho surrounded by lush gardens. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Hà Tĩnh Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. The museum houses numerous artifacts and exhibits that showcase the local heritage, providing a fascinating insight into the past.
In the afternoon, head to the ancient Thach Kim Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a refreshing dip in the sea. Grab a local seafood lunch at one of the beachside eateries, enjoying fresh catches of the day cooked in traditional Vietnamese styles. After lunch, explore the local fishing villages nearby, immersing yourself in the daily lives of the fishermen and their families.
As the sun sets, return to the city to taste the vibrant street food scene at Nguyễn Công Trứ Street, where you can sample local delicacies such as bánh mỳ and phở. Join in with the locals as they gather to share stories and enjoy their food, creating a lively atmosphere. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local café, sipping on Vietnamese coffee while enjoying the night sky.
Start your morning by visiting the ancient temples of the Trường Lâm village, known for their stunning architecture and historical significance. Engage with the local community as you learn about their customs and traditions, and perhaps even participate in a traditional craft workshop. The serene surroundings and cultural depth will enrich your understanding of Vietnamese heritage.
Afterward, make your way to the nearby Vũ Quang National Park, where you can hike through lush forests and spot various species of flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, taking in the fresh air and the sounds of the wild. As you continue your hike, marvel at the breathtaking views and waterfalls that the park has to offer.
In the evening, return to Hà Tĩnh and visit a local market where you can shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with friendly vendors and learn about the traditional crafts unique to the region. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic dishes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚌Taxi 1 km | $0.4-0.8 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and beaches
- Close proximity to Vu Quang National Park
- Affordability and value for money
- Warm hospitality and vibrant seafood cuisine
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Some attractions require vehicle travel
- Rural areas can have less-developed infrastructure
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Ở đây có món đặc sản nào không?" - Do you have any local specialties?
- "Xin cho tôi hỏi đường đến..." - Could you tell me how to get to...?
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Hà Tĩnh
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy shore with dramatic horizons, ideal for sunrise/sunset silhouettes and coastal portraits.
A tranquil lake framed by forested hills, perfect for reflections and late-afternoon golden light.
Cloud-forest vistas, misty ravines, and fern-filled clearings—dramatic scenery for wide landscape shots.
Historic entrance with sweeping valley views and a sense of regional history, great for architecture and landscape photography.
Food in Hà Tĩnh
Hà Tĩnh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fish stew cooked in a clay pot with soy, garlic, shallots, and regional spices—best enjoyed with steamed rice after a day by the sea.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp, scallions, and fried shallots, typically served with a fish sauce dipping accompaniment.
Fresh sugarcane juice paired with a selection of seasonal seafood dishes found at beaches and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main city market where you can find fresh seafood, herbs, produce, and quick bites from street stalls.
Evening market near the waterfront offering grilled seafood, pho, and assorted snacks after sundown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting (Xin chào) is appreciated; show respect to elders and avoid public displays of anger in rural areas.
Dress modestly when visiting temples or villages; remove shoes when entering homes or religious sites; use right hand for exchanges when possible.
Ask permission before photographing people; a friendly smile goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Hà Tĩnh
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected in most establishments, but small gratuities (about 5–10% or 20,000–50,000 VND) are appreciated for good service, especially for guides or higher-end dining.
Cash (Vietnamese dong) remains widely used. Cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants; mobile payments (Momo, ZaloPay) are increasingly common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with refreshing sea breezes; occasional heavy showers; early mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activity and photography.
Generally drier with pleasant temperatures; great for hiking and city exploration without the peak heat.
Mild to cool and wetter at times; fewer crowds and comfortable conditions for cultural sites and markets.
Green landscapes after the rains; ideal for outdoor walks, photography, and market visits.
Hà Tĩnh at Night
Hiking in Hà Tĩnh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails through mountainous terrain with diverse flora and fauna; guided treks recommended for safety and wildlife viewing.
Ridge and hillside paths offering panoramic views of valleys and historical sites.
Airports
How to reach Hà Tĩnh by plane.
Nghệ An Province; serves domestic and limited international flights; accessible by road from Ha Tĩnh with a few hours’ drive.
Quảng Bình Province; serves domestic flights; convenient if traveling along the central coast; a few hours’ drive to Ha Tĩnh.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Kinh (Vietnamese) with smaller ethnic minority communities residing in upland districts, including groups such as Bru-Van Kieu in some mountainous areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular at schools and communities; local matches and weekend games are common.
Common in parks, clubs, and recreation centers; casual play and tournaments occur.
Beaches and riverfront areas host informal games; community leagues happen in cities and towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hà Tĩnh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted by substituting meat with tofu or vegetables; look for herbs, tofu stir-fries, and vegetable‑forward options in markets and larger eateries.