Haiphong

Urban Coastal Beaches Riverfront

Population: 2 million

Best Season to Visit: Spring

Best Off-Peak Month to Visit: September

Famous For: Proximity to Halong Bay, Colonial architecture, Local cuisine

Train Access: Yes (Hanoi - Haiphong)

Bus Access: Yes (Hai Phong Bus Station, Tam Bac Bus Station)

Haiphong, Vietnam's third-largest city, offers travelers a blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and scenic landscapes. The city is a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, where visitors can embark on cruises to explore the bay's iconic limestone karsts and islands. In Haiphong itself, the Hai Phong Opera House stands as a testament to French colonial influence, while the Du Hang Pagoda, an active place of worship, showcases intricate Buddhist architecture and serene gardens. The city's culinary scene is vibrant, with local specialties like Banh Da Cua (crab noodle soup) and Banh Mi Cay (spicy bread) available at street food stalls and traditional eateries. The Tam Bac Lake provides a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk, and the nearby Do Son Beach offers a coastal retreat with seafood dining and water activities. Haiphong's cultural calendar is highlighted by events such as the Flamboyant Festival, celebrating the city's emblematic red blossoms with music, dance, and fireworks. For a unique experience, travelers can visit the Cat Ba Island from Haiphong, which is part of the larger Cat Ba Archipelago, offering hiking, rock climbing, and encounters with diverse wildlife.

VRBO Vacation Rentals
Learn More

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.

VRBO Vacation Rentals

Planning Your Trip to Haiphong

Weather: Haiphong experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, including hot, humid summers and cool, dry winters.

Festivals: The Flamboyant Festival is Haiphong's most vibrant event, celebrating the city's flower with performances and fireworks.

Best Things for Kids to Do: Children can enjoy the Haiphong City Museum with its interactive displays, and the Cannon Fort on Cat Ba Island offers historical insights and panoramic views.

Hidden Gem: The Trang Kenh Complex, with its limestone formations and historical relics, is a lesser-known site offering stunning natural beauty and a glimpse into the region's past.

Accessibility: Haiphong is relatively accessible for older people, with flat terrain in the city center and several parks offering paved paths for leisurely strolls.

For the Runner: The area around Tam Bac Lake and the green spaces of Cat Ba National Park are ideal for running and walking, providing both urban and natural landscapes.

Restaurants in Haiphong

Haiphong offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from upscale to budget-friendly options. For a fine dining experience, Texas BBQ is a popular choice known for its authentic American barbecue dishes. Mid-range options include Indian Palace, serving a variety of traditional Indian cuisine, and Nam Phuong Restaurant, which offers Vietnamese specialties in a comfortable setting. For more casual and affordable meals, visitors can head to Banh Da Cua Ba Cu, a local eatery famous for its traditional Hai Phong-style noodle soup.

Where to Stay

Haiphong has a range of hotels catering to different budgets and preferences. The AVANI Hai Phong Harbour View is a luxury option that combines colonial charm with modern amenities. For mid-range accommodations, the Manoir Des Arts Hotel offers a boutique experience with artistic decor and a central location. Budget travelers can consider the Lac Long Hotel Hai Phong, which provides basic facilities at an affordable price.

Best Hotels: AVANI Hai Phong Harbour View, Pearl River Hotel, Mercure Hai Phong

Haiphong

Planning Your Trip to Haiphong

Restaurants in Haiphong

Where to Stay

Recommended Reading