Things To Do
in Hải Dương

Hải Dương is a vibrant province located in northern Vietnam, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It boasts numerous historical sites, traditional crafts, and delicious cuisine that attract visitors from all over. The province is also famous for its lush rice fields and picturesque landscapes.

With a mix of urban and rural charm, Hải Dương offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore authentic Vietnamese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hải Dương Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, stroll through the bustling streets of the city center and explore local shops.

afternoon
:

Visit the ancient temple of Tranh Pagoda, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery where you can try the famous bánh cuốn.

evening
:

Finish the day at a local café, sipping on traditional Vietnamese coffee while watching the sunset. If you're up for it, explore nearby night markets for street food.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a trip to the scenic Hải Tân Lake, where you can take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the area. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the lake.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby village of An Phụ to experience traditional craft-making and interact with local artisans. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant that serves specialties from the region.

evening
:

Return to Hải Dương city and visit a local bar for some drinks or enjoy a night out at a karaoke venue, which is a popular activity among locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$1.50
Vietnamese Coffee$1.00
🍺Local Beer$1.00
🌮Street Food Snack$0.50
🚌Bus Ticket$0.30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Less developed tourism infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for some travelers.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Tôi muốn ăn" - I want to eat
  • "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Giá bao nhiêu?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Hải Dương

Visit one of these nice places.

Tranh Pagoda

An ancient temple with stunning architecture and scenic surroundings, perfect for capturing the essence of local spirituality.

Hải Tân Lake

A serene lake that offers beautiful views, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Hải Dương Market

A lively market scene where you can capture the hustle and bustle of daily life and local vendors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hải Dương

Hải Dương is a culinary haven, offering a variety of traditional dishes that showcase the flavors of northern Vietnam. From street food stalls to local restaurants, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.

Hải Dương Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh cuốn

Steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and mushrooms, often served with a side of fish sauce.

Must-Try!

Nem rán

Vietnamese fried spring rolls, crispy and filled with a mixture of meat and vegetables.

Chè

A sweet dessert soup made with ingredients like beans, fruits, and coconut milk.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hải Dương Night Market

A vibrant market offering a wide range of street food, snacks, and local delicacies in the evening.

Nguyễn Huệ Street Food

Known for its variety of street food vendors, this street is perfect for trying local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hải Dương experiences a tropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The transitional seasons of spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders in both speech and behavior, such as using formal language.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or rural areas, dress modestly to show respect for local customs.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hải Dương is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to remain vigilant in crowded areas to avoid petty theft. Always secure your belongings and be cautious when using public transportation. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health and theft.

Tipping in Hải Dương

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places now accept credit and debit cards; consider carrying some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March - May)

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a great time for outdoor activities and exploring local sights.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid, expect occasional rain; it's ideal for enjoying local food and indoor attractions.

Autumn (September - November)

Cooler temperatures and clear skies; perfect for hiking and enjoying the countryside.

Winter (December - February)

Cool and dry weather; fewer tourists and a great time to explore cultural sites without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Hải Dương at Night

Hải Dương offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around local bars, cafés, and karaoke venues. While it may not have the bustling nightlife of larger cities, locals enjoy gathering in small groups to socialize, enjoy live music, and partake in karaoke. Night markets come alive in the evening, providing a vibrant atmosphere for food enthusiasts and those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Hải Dương

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tam Đảo National Park

Located about 80 kilometers from Hải Dương, this national park offers stunning hiking trails through lush forests and mountainous terrain.

Cát Bà National Park

A bit further away, around 150 kilometers from Hải Dương, this park features diverse ecosystems and beautiful coastal views, popular among hikers.

Airports

How to reach Hải Dương by plane.

Hà Nội Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)

Located about 60 kilometers from Hải Dương, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hải Dương city is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, shops, and eateries are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, although they may sometimes be obstructed by vendors or parked vehicles. Pedestrian crossings are present but may require caution due to traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kinh People

The majority ethnic group in Việt Nam, the Kinh people make up a large portion of Hải Dương's population, known for their rich cultural traditions.

Ethnic Minorities

Several ethnic minority groups reside in Hải Dương, contributing to the cultural diversity and local traditions of the province.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Hải Dương, with many local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Badminton

Badminton is a widely played sport, with many locals engaging in recreational matches in parks and community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hải Dương can be busy, particularly during peak hours. Motorbikes are the most common mode of transport, and road conditions vary. Public transportation is available, including buses and taxis, but they may not always be reliable. It's advisable to use ride-hailing apps for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hải Dương.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for no fish sauce.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; fresh rice dishes are a safe choice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Hải Dương is generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Major hospitals provide a range of services, including emergency care. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses, as private clinics may charge higher fees.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide