Things To Do
in Thanh Hóa

Thanh Hóa is a coastal province in North Central Vietnam known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. It is home to historical sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant traditional markets. The province offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an attractive destination for both local and international tourists.

Visitors can explore its ancient temples, enjoy fresh seafood, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heritage
morning
:

Visit the ancient Ho Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its historical significance.

afternoon
:

Explore the Thanh Hóa Museum to understand the local history and culture.

evening
:

Stroll along the coastal area of Sầm Sơn Beach, enjoying the sunset and fresh seafood at local restaurants.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a hike in the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, enjoying the scenic views and rich biodiversity.

afternoon
:

Visit the Trường Lệ Temple, a famous religious site, and participate in local rituals.

evening
:

Experience the night market in Thanh Hóa city, sampling street food and shopping for local handicrafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$2
🍺Local Beer$1
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$5
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🛏️Night at a Budget Hotel$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Public transportation may be limited in some areas.
  • Language barrier can be challenging for non-Vietnamese speakers.
  • High humidity in summer can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Giúp tôi với" - Help me
  • "Tôi muốn ăn" - I want to eat
  • "Đây là bao nhiêu?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Thanh Hóa

Visit one of these nice places.

Ho Citadel

A historical site with stunning architecture and scenic surroundings, ideal for capturing ancient Vietnamese culture.

Sầm Sơn Beach

Beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant sunsets provide a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Breathtaking landscapes of rice terraces and mountains perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Thanh Hóa

Thanh Hóa offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich variety of local dishes, vibrant food markets, and bustling street food scene. Food lovers will find plenty of options to satisfy their taste buds, from traditional specialties to modern Vietnamese cuisine.

Thanh Hóa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh cuốn Thanh Hóa

Thin rice pancakes filled with minced pork and mushrooms, typically served with a side of fish sauce.

Must-Try!

Nem chua

Fermented pork rolls that are a popular snack, often consumed with rice and vegetables.

Mực nhồi thịt

Stuffed squid with minced meat and spices, grilled to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sầm Sơn Beach Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food, fresh seafood, and local delicacies.

Thanh Hóa Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Thanh Hóa experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The rainy season lasts from May to October, bringing heavy rainfall, while the dry season runs from November to April with cooler temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to older individuals, using polite language.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or religious sites, dress conservatively.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and it is polite to try all the dishes offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Thanh Hóa is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. It's advisable to avoid displaying valuables in public and to be cautious in crowded areas. Always use reputable transportation services and inform someone about your travel plans when venturing into remote areas.

Tipping in Thanh Hóa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also accepted in hotels and larger restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March - May)

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time to explore the outdoors.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid weather, ideal for beach activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn (September - November)

Cooler temperatures and drier weather make it perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter (December - February)

Cooler temperatures; it can be foggy but offers a unique atmosphere for cultural exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Thanh Hóa at Night

Thanh Hóa's nightlife is moderate, with several bars and cafes offering live music and entertainment. The local night market is a popular spot for evening socializing, where visitors can enjoy street food and shop for souvenirs. Sầm Sơn Beach also has beach bars that come alive at night, attracting both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Thanh Hóa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve Trail

A popular hiking trail offering breathtaking views of rice terraces and lush landscapes.

Cúc Phương National Park Trail

Known for its diverse flora and fauna, this trail provides a more challenging hike through one of Vietnam's oldest national parks.

Airports

How to reach Thanh Hóa by plane.

Thọ Xuân Airport (THD)

Located about 45 km from Thanh Hóa city, Thọ Xuân Airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Thanh Hóa is moderately walkable, especially in its urban areas where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are concentrated. However, in rural areas, walking may be less convenient due to less developed infrastructure. Sidewalks are available in many places, but it is advisable to stay alert for traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kinh

The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, the Kinh people comprise a significant portion of Thanh Hóa's population.

Thái

The Thái ethnic minority is known for their unique culture and traditions, contributing to the province's diverse cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Thanh Hóa, with many local teams and clubs fostering community spirit.

Martial Arts

Traditional martial arts, particularly Vovinam, are practiced widely, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Thanh Hóa can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Motorbikes are the most common mode of transportation, and while it is possible to walk, caution is advised due to the volume of traffic. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and widely available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Thanh Hóa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to inquire about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Thanh Hóa are available through public hospitals and clinics, as well as private healthcare facilities. While major hospitals offer reasonable care, it is advisable for travelers to have health insurance and access to private clinics for quicker and more efficient service. In case of emergencies, it's best to head to larger cities such as Hanoi for specialized care.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide