Introdution

This article is a continuation of Top 10 Vietnam Excursions from Hanoi series and provides readers with five more exciting and unique excursions to explore in Northern Vietnam. Each excursion is carefully curated to ensure an unforgettable adventure while also providing practical information for tourists to plan their trip with ease.

6. Hanoi – Ha Giang - Hanoi

Vietnam is a beautiful country with so much to offer to travelers. From the bustling cities to the serene countryside, there is something for everyone. One place that should be on every traveler's excursion is Ha Giang, a stunning mountainous region in the northernmost province of Vietnam. In this travel guide, we will explore why you should visit Ha Giang from Hanoi, how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and things to do.

6.1. Why visit Ha Giang from Hanoi

Ha Giang is known for its breathtaking scenery, from the lush rice paddies to the towering mountains. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The region is also home to various ethnic minority communities, each with their own distinct culture and traditions. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting markets, homestays, and attending festivals.

6.2. How to get to Ha Giang from Hanoi

The easiest and most convenient way to have an excursion to Ha Giang from Hanoi is by private car or motorbike. The journey takes around six hours and is a scenic drive through the countryside. Alternatively, travelers can take a local bus from Hanoi's My Dinh bus station to Ha Giang city, which takes around eight hours. From Ha Giang city, there are many options for transportation to explore the surrounding areas, such as renting a motorbike or hiring a local guide.

6.3. Where to stay in Ha Giang

Ha Giang offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. For a unique experience, travelers can stay with local families in homestays in ethnic minority villages. This allows for an authentic cultural experience and the chance to learn about the locals' way of life. For those seeking more comfort, there are also hotels and guesthouses in Ha Giang city and other nearby towns.

6.4. What to eat in Ha Giang

Ha Giang boasts a range of delightful local dishes, influenced by the diverse ethnic minority communities in the region. Some must-try dishes in your Vietnam excursions include:

Thang Co is a type of meat soup, including various types of meat such as horse, buffalo, beef, and pork. Originally, this dish was made primarily with horse meat, but currently, due to the rarity and high cost of horse meat, most restaurants will serve Thang Co made with beef, buffalo, or pork as a replacement.

Men Men, also known as corn rice, is a dish of the Mong people made from ground corn. After the corn is manually ground into a fine powder using a stone mortar, the cooked ingredients are simmered twice to create the Men Men dish.

Additionally, visitors can satisfy their sweet tooth with the unique local honey, known for its distinctive flavor.

6.5. Things to do in Ha Giang

Ha Giang has a range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Here are some of the top things to do in Ha Giang :

Visit the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: This UNESCO-recognized geopark offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and unique geological formations.

Trekking and hiking: Ha Giang offers a range of trekking and hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to multi-day treks. Travelers can explore the countryside, visit remote villages, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Visit ethnic minority villages: Ha Giang is home to various ethnic minority communities, each with their own unique culture and traditions. Travelers can visit villages, attend festivals, and learn about the locals' way of life.

Explore the Ma Pi Leng Pass: This scenic mountain pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Attend a local market: The weekly markets in Ha Giang offer a chance to experience local life and buy unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

7. Hanoi – Ba Be - Hanoi

Are you looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi? Look no further than Ba Be National Park. Located in the Bac Kan province of northern Vietnam, Ba Be is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking natural beauty, traditional ethnic cultures, and outdoor activities that will leave you awestruck. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your unforgettable excursion from Hanoi to Ba Be.

7.1. Why visit Ba Be from Hanoi

Ba Be National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park boasts stunning limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and dense forests. The region is also home to various ethnic minority communities, including the Tay, Nung, and Hmong, who have preserved their traditional cultures for centuries. In Ba Be, you can experience the local way of life, taste authentic cuisine, and participate in outdoor activities, such as trekking, kayaking, and biking.

7.2. How to get to Ba Be from Hanoi

The most convenient way to reach Ba Be from Hanoi is by private car or bus. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. If you prefer a more adventurous mode of transportation, you can rent a motorbike or a bicycle and explore the countryside on your own. However, keep in mind that the road to Ba Be is steep and winding, so make sure you have enough experience and skills to handle the ride.

7.3. Where to stay in Ba Be

Ba Be offers a range of accommodation options, from homestays to eco-lodges and resorts. Staying with a local family is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn more about the traditional way of life. You can also opt for a comfortable and modern stay at one of the eco-lodges, which are built in harmony with the surrounding nature. Some popular accommodation options in Ba Be include Ba Be Lake View Homestay, Mr. Linh's Homestay, and Ba Be Eco-Lodge.

7.4. What to eat in Ba Be

Ba Be is renowned for its delicious and authentic cuisine, which reflects the diverse ethnic cultures of the region. Some must-try dishes in this excursion include grilled fish, bamboo-tube rice, wild vegetable, and so on. Don't forget to try the local wine, which has a unique flavor.

7.5. Things to do in Ba Be

Ba Be offers a plethora of activities for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Here are some of the top things to do in Ba Be:

Take a boat ride on Ba Be Lake: Ba Be Lake is the centerpiece of the national park and offers stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs and dense forests. You can hire a local boat and explore the lake, stop by the traditional villages, and visit the scenic waterfalls.

Trek through the national park: Ba Be has numerous trekking trails that lead you through the verdant forests, rolling hills, and lush valleys. You can opt for a guided trek or explore the trails on your own. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Kayak on Nang River: Nang River is a tributary of Ba Be Lake and offers a picturesque setting for kayaking. You can rent a kayak and paddle through the tranquil waters, admire the natural scenery, and spot the diverse wildlife.

For those interested in local culture, Ba Be offers an opportunity to visit ethnic villages and learn about traditional customs and ways of life. The villages of Pac Ngoi and Bo Lu are popular destinations for visitors, where you can experience homestays with local families and participate in traditional activities such as weaving and farming.

8. Hanoi – Cao Bang - Hanoi

Located in the northernmost region of Vietnam, Cao Bang offers visitors a chance to witness the stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine of the area. In this guide, we'll provide you with everything you need to know about planning your Cao Bang excursion, from how to get there to what to eat and do.

8.1. Why visit Cao Bang from Hanoi

Cao Bang is a must-visit destination for those who love nature, culture, and history. The area is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in Vietnam, including the Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave, and Pac Bo Cave. Visitors can also learn about the region's history and culture by visiting historical sites such as the Lenin Stream and the Dong Khe Battlefield.

Aside from its natural and cultural attractions, Cao Bang is also known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the local ethnic minorities. The area's signature dishes include grilled meats, rice noodles, and various soups and stews.

8.2. How to get to Cao Bang from Hanoi

The most convenient way to get to Cao Bang from Hanoi is by private car or motorbike. There are also passenger cars that run from Hanoi to Cao Bang. The journey takes around 6-8 hours and covers a distance of about 300 kilometers. 

8.3. Where to stay in Cao Bang

Cao Bang offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget hostels to high-end hotels. If you're on a budget, there are plenty of affordable guesthouses and hostels in the city center. These places offer basic amenities like air conditioning, hot water, and Wi-Fi, and are perfect for those who are just looking for a place to sleep. 

For those who are willing to spend a bit more, there are several mid-range hotels and resorts in the area, such as the Thanh Loan Hotel, Bang Giang Hotel, and Huong Sen Hotel. These hotels offer more amenities, such as swimming pools, spas, and restaurants, and are perfect for those who want to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring. 

If you're looking for a more unique experience, you can also stay in a homestay with a local family. Many families in the area offer homestay experiences, where you can stay in their home and learn about their culture and way of life. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the local community and get a deeper understanding of the area.

8.4. What to eat in Cao Bang

Cao Bang is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the local ethnic minorities. Some must-try dishes include:

Pho Chua: This sour noodle soup is a popular dish in the region and is made with rice noodles, sour bamboo shoots, and various meats and vegetables.

Banh Cuon (Steamed rice rolls) is a popular dish in Vietnam, but Cao Bang's version is particularly delicious. The rice flour rolls are filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, and then steamed to perfection. They are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, making for a light and flavorful meal.

Roast duck with 7 flavors: Cao Bang residents have used 7 different types of spices to marinate duck meat. Roast duck is cooked until the skin is golden yellow and attractive, the meat is firm and not chewy.

Tram Huong Fish is a well-known delicious fish species in Ban Gioc Waterfall. This fish species often feeds on the roots and leaves of agarwood trees, hence its name. Grilled Tram Huong fish is the best way to prepare it because it preserves the unique taste and aroma of the fish.

8.5. Things to do in Cao Bang

Cao Bang is a beautiful and diverse province, with plenty of natural and cultural attractions to explore. Here are some of the top things to do in the area:

Ban Gioc Waterfall: located on the border between Vietnam and China, this stunning waterfall is the largest in Vietnam and one of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia.

Pac Bo Cave: this historic cave is where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked during the early years of the Vietnamese revolution. It's now a popular tourist attraction and a great place to learn about the country's history.

Nguom Ngao Cave: this beautiful cave is located in the middle of a mountain range and is filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Thang Hen Lake: a beautiful and peaceful lake surrounded by mountains and forests. It's a great place for hiking, swimming, and boating.

Ethnic Minority Villages: Cao Bang is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Tay, Nung, and Hmong. Visiting their villages is a great way to learn about their culture and way of life.

9. Hanoi – Ha Nam - Hanoi

9.1. Why visit Ha Nam  from Hanoi

Ha Nam is a charming province located in the South of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is known for its beautiful landscape, rich history, and traditional handicraft villages. Ha Nam is also home to some of the most significant historical sites in Vietnam, including the Phu Ly Citadel and the Tam Chuc Pagoda. If you're looking for a break from the bustling city of Hanoi and want to experience Vietnam's countryside, Ha Nam is a perfect destination.

9.2. How to get to Ha Nam  from Hanoi

There are several ways to get to Ha Nam from Hanoi. The most convenient way is to take a private car or taxi, which takes around 2 hours. You can easily book a taxi online or hire one at the Hanoi airport. Another option is to take a bus from the Hanoi bus station. 

9.3. Where to stay in Ha Nam

If you go for a short trip of only about 1 day, you can eat and rest at a dining spot. If you come from far away or want to spend more time visiting famous tourist destinations in Ha Nam, you should find a hotel to stay. There are currently many clean hotels near the tourist spots for you to choose from.

You can stay at Tam Chuc Hotel - Restaurant located within the premises of the Tam Chuc Pagoda area, or some other places such as Muong Thanh Luxury Ha Nam, Vinpearl Condotel Phu Ly, Tue Lam Guesthouse, Ngoc Lam Hotel,...

9.4. What to eat in Ha Nam

Climbing perch noodle soup is a specialty of Phu Ly, Ha Nam province with a strong countryside flavor. This dish is attractive to diners because of the crispy and fatty taste of fried climbing perch combined with the natural freshness of vegetables such as cabbage, tomatoes, and herbs

Phu Ly, Ha Nam's specialty, mountain goat meat, is loved by many people for its delicious and nutritious flavor. The goats are raised in the mountainous region, so the meat is firm, chewy, very fragrant, and sweet. Goat meat is processed into many delicious dishes such as lime seared goat meat, Chinese-style grilled goat meat, stir-fried goat meat,... which are all incredibly delicious.

Vũ Đại village's braised fish is a delicacy that is elaborately prepared with the main ingredient being black carp. The fish dish has a beautiful color and the meat is soft and flavorful, making it very appealing. It is best enjoyed with white rice and delicious boiled vegetables that are hard to resist.

9.5. Things to do in Ha Nam

Ha Nam has plenty of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Ha Nam:

Tam Chuc Pagoda: Tam Chuc Pagoda is a famous Buddhist temple that is located in the Tam Chuc tourist area. It is a beautiful complex that features several temples, pagodas, and a giant statue of Buddha. Visitors can take a boat ride around the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery.

The Doi Tam drum village in Ha Nam is famous for its traditional drum-making craft that has existed for over 1000 years, passed down from generation to generation. This is the place where the largest thunder drums in Vietnam are made.

The Truc Temple - Ngu Dong Son is located in Thi Son commune, Kim Bang district, Ha Nam province, and is famous for its beautiful landscape, mountainous terrain and unique caves.

The Nha Xa silk weaving craft village tourist area is located in Duy Tien district, Ha Nam province, about 26km from the city center. Nha Xa silk is famous for its softness, durability, and safety, which are meticulously crafted by skilled artisans with years of experience in the village.

10. Hanoi and its surroundings

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a bustling city filled with history, culture, and delicious food. From the narrow streets of the Old Quarter to the modern buildings of the business district, Hanoi has something to offer every traveler. In this guide, we will cover where to stay, what to eat, and things to do in Hanoi.

10.1. Where to stay in Hanoi

There are many options for accommodation in Hanoi, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top choices:

Old Quarter area: This is the most popular area for tourists to stay in Hanoi, and for good reason. The Old Quarter is filled with charming narrow streets lined with traditional shophouses, and it's within walking distance to many of Hanoi's attractions. Some great options for accommodation in the Old Quarter include Hotel Melia Hanoi, Au Coeur d'Hanoi Boutique Hotel, Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi and so on.

West Lake area: If you're looking for a more upscale and peaceful area to stay in Hanoi, West Lake is a great option. This area is home to many embassies and high-end restaurants, and it's a bit further from the city center. Some great options for accommodation near West Lake include InterContinental Hanoi Westlake, Pan Pacific Hanoi, and Somerset West Lake Hanoi…

10.2. What to eat in Hanoi

Hanoi is known for its delicious street food, and there are many dishes that you shouldn't miss when visiting the city. Here are some of the top choices:

Pho: This is perhaps the most famous Vietnamese dish, and it originated in Hanoi. Pho is a noodle soup that's usually made with beef or chicken, and it's flavored with herbs and spices. Some great places to try pho in Hanoi include Pho Thin, Pho Suong, and Pho Gia Truyen.

Bun cha: This is another popular Vietnamese dish that's especially popular in Hanoi. Bun cha consists of grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and a variety of herbs and vegetables. Some great places to try bun cha in Hanoi include Bun Cha Hang Quat, Bun Cha Dac Kim, and Bun Cha Nem Cua Be.

Hanoi's banh mi has countless different types. From grilled meat banh mi, mixed banh mi, kebab banh mi, pate banh mi, cha (pork paste) banh mi,... Each type has its own unique flavor.

A cup of creamy and rich egg coffee is a great way to start your day in Hanoi. Although there are tens of thousands of egg coffee cups sold in Hanoi every day, the most memorable one is still the egg coffee at Giang Cafe - located at 39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi. If you want to taste the authentic Hanoi egg coffee, you should choose the hot one; however, this drink is also amazing when served cold.

10.3. Things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi is a city full of history, culture, and exciting experiences. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting the city:

The Old Quarter

The Old Quarter of Hanoi is the heart of the city and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hanoi. With its narrow streets and ancient architecture, it offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. The area is known for its street food, traditional handicrafts, and bustling markets.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, exercise, and take in the beautiful scenery. 

The Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a stunning example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and is considered to be one of the country's most iconic landmarks. The temple was built in 1070 and was Vietnam's first university. It is dedicated to Confucius and honors Vietnam's finest scholars.

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning building that was built in 1911 during the French colonial period. It is an excellent example of neoclassical architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building or attend one of the many performances that take place there.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a massive structure that houses the embalmed body of Vietnam's former leader, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is an impressive sight and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. Visitors are required to dress modestly and be respectful while visiting.

Water Puppet Show

Water Puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the Red River Delta region of Vietnam. The art form has been around for over 1,000 years and involves the use of wooden puppets that are manipulated by puppeteers in waist-deep water. Watching a water puppet show is a must-do experience when visiting Hanoi.

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

The Hoa Lo Prison Museum, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton", is a fascinating museum that offers a glimpse into the dark history of the Vietnam War. The prison was originally built by the French colonial government in the late 1800s and was later used to house American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War.

The 10 excursions listed above are recommended for tourists to fully explore the beauty of Northern Vietnam. For a more hassle-free trip, visitors can link the destinations along the following routes.    

Hanoi – Mai Chau – Ninh Binh – Halong

Hanoi – Ba Be – Cao Bang – Ha Giang - Hanoi

Hanoi – Sapa – Ha Giang - Hanoi

Check out more excursions from Hanoi 

=> Top 10 best excursions from Hanoi