Things To Do
in Haiphong
Haiphong is a major industrial city and the third largest in Vietnam, known for its maritime industry, port facilities, and urban development. It serves as a crucial transportation hub, connecting the northern region of Vietnam to the sea, fostering both domestic and international trade.
The city also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with landmarks such as Du Hang Pagoda and Hang Kenh Communal House, blending its bustling economic growth with traditional Vietnamese culture.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
- "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local bakery. After that, visit the beautiful Tam Bac River for a morning stroll.
Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant and then explore the picturesque Lan Ha Bay on a boat tour. Don't miss the stunning limestone karsts and lush scenery.
Dine on seafood at a popular local eatery. After dinner, take a relaxing walk around the city center to soak in the nightlife.
Visit the Hai Phong Opera House to appreciate French colonial architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history.
After lunch, explore the Navy Museum to understand Vietnam's naval heritage. Spend time viewing exhibits and artifacts.
Sample traditional Vietnamese dishes at a nearby restaurant. Later, catch a cultural performance at the opera house if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic port city with significant trade and shipping facilities.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, showcased in local architecture and festivals.
- Beautiful coastal areas and proximity to attractions like Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay.
- Developing economy with opportunities in various sectors including manufacturing and tourism.
- Vibrant local cuisine known for its seafood and unique regional dishes.
- Air and water pollution issues due to industrial activities.
- Traffic congestion can be a problem in urban areas.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in some regions compared to major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
- Limited international exposure and amenities compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Weather can be harsh with a hot and humid climate, along with potential for typhoons.
Best Activities in Haiphong
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience stunning coastal views and explore fishing villages on a bike ride around Cat Ba Island.
Enjoy the natural beauty of lush forests and rugged limestone mountains while trekking in Cat Ba National Park.
Paddle through the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay and discover hidden lagoons and towering karst formations while kayaking.
Relax on the sandy shores or take part in water sports at Do Son Beach, a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Tours
Uncover the best of Haiphong with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Haiphong
Visit one of these nice places.
Cat Ba Island offers stunning views of limestone karsts and beautiful landscapes, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Do Son Beach provides serene coastal views, ideal for capturing sunset photos and enjoying the beach atmosphere.
Du Hang Pagoda offers a panoramic view of Haiphong city and the surrounding landscape, making it a great location for photography and sightseeing.
Food in Haiphong
Haiphong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty featuring fried mullet fish with dill and turmeric, best enjoyed at Xuan Dieu or Tam Bac Market.
Must-Try!
A crab noodle soup served with crispy fried breadsticks, commonly found at Cau Dat Street food stalls.
Haiphong-style crab spring rolls, often served alongside fresh herbs and rice vermicelli at local eateries like Nem Sung.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Haiphong better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a plethora of street food options such as Banh My (Vietnamese sandwiches) and Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli).
A vibrant street food hub where visitors can enjoy a variety of local delicacies including Bánh Đa Cua and freshly grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Haiphong, it is important to show respect for elders by greeting them first and using respectful language and gestures when addressing them.
When entering someone's home or certain establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect for the space.
When dining with locals, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and to make an effort to try all the dishes presented.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Haiphong with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Haiphong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a widespread practice in Haiphong, Vietnam. However, in some high-end restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers or service staff in most establishments.
In Haiphong, Vietnam, cash is the most common form of payment, especially for smaller purchases and in local markets. Major credit cards may be accepted in larger establishments, but it is always advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting more rural areas or smaller businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Haiphong.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit due to mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect occasional rain showers.
Hot and humid weather with occasional thunderstorms. Good for beach activities.
Cooler temperatures and less rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Cool and dry weather. Some foggy days. Suitable for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
Haiphong at Night
Hiking in Haiphong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large national park on Cat Ba Island, featuring diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and stunning views of limestone cliffs and lush greenery.
Known for its impressive heights and panoramic views, Mount Ba Na offers several hiking trails, including paths through forests and up to scenic viewpoints.
While primarily known for its beaches, the coastal area around Do Son has several trails leading to hilltop views and natural landscapes.
Several parks in the urban areas of Hai Phong offer walking and hiking trails amid scenic landscapes, perfect for short hikes.
Located near Hai Phong, this area has trails leading to the Linh Ung Pagoda, featuring cultural sites along with nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Haiphong through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Haiphong by plane.
Located in Hanoi, approximately 120 km from Haiphong, it is the largest airport in northern Vietnam.
Located in Haiphong itself, it is the main airport serving the city and connects to several domestic and international destinations.
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, about 1,500 km from Haiphong, it is the busiest airport in Vietnam.
Located in Da Nang, approximately 800 km from Haiphong, it serves as a key hub for travel to central Vietnam.
Located near Nha Trang, approximately 1,250 km from Haiphong, it serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, making up a significant portion of the population in Haiphong.
An ethnic minority group residing in northern Vietnam, including areas around Haiphong.
Another ethnic minority, the Mường people have a presence in northern Vietnam, contributing to the demographic diversity.
A significant ethnic group in Vietnam, the Thái can be found in various regions, including urban areas like Haiphong.
Primarily found in southern Vietnam, some Khmer populations also reside in northern cities, including Haiphong.
The Hoa people are of Chinese descent and represent a notable minority group in urban centers such as Haiphong.
The Soul of Haiphong
Discover the essence of Haiphong through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Haiphong, with several local teams and a strong following among residents.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, especially among the youth, with local clubs and school competitions.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and community centers, with both men's and women's teams participating in local tournaments.
Badminton is a favored sport for many in Haiphong, with numerous courts available for casual and competitive play.
Table tennis is a popular indoor sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and often played in recreational centers.
Various forms of martial arts, including traditional Vietnamese disciplines, have a substantial following in Haiphong.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haiphong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes may lean towards meat and seafood, many eateries like HaiPhong House and Cong Caphe offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as tofu-based dishes and refreshing fruit-based beverages.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like fresh spring rolls and pho (noodle soup) without the added garnishes, ensuring a gluten-free dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Haiphong with these cultural adventures.
