Du lịch Miền Bắc

OVERVIEW OF NORTHERN VIETNAM

Northern Vietnam (Miền Bắc) is known for its mountain landscapes, ethnic diversity, ancient history, and natural wonders. It offers a unique blend of vibrant cities, misty highlands, rice terraces, and UNESCO sites. It's the cultural heart of Vietnam.

MAJOR TOURIST DESTINATIONS

1. Hanoi (Capital City): Political and cultural center, full of history and charm.

Highlights:

Old Quarter (street food & local life)
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Temple of Literature
Water Puppet Show
Weekend Night Market

2. Ha Long Bay (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Thousands of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters.

Activities: Overnight cruise, Kayaking through caves, Visiting floating fishing villages, Halong or Bai Tu Long options (less crowded)

3. Ninh Binh (aka "Halong Bay on land"): Karst mountains, ancient temples, and boat rides in lush landscapes.

Highlights: Tam Coc boat ride, Trang An scenic complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda (largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam), Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Mua Cave Viewpoint

4. Sapa (Lao Cai Province): Terraced rice fields, cool climate, ethnic minority villages.

Things to Do: Trekking to villages (Lao Chai, Ta Van, Cat Cat), Stay with ethnic homestays, Visit Fansipan (Vietnam’s highest peak via cable car or hike)

5. Ha Giang (Northeast): Breathtaking motorbike loops, remote villages, raw beauty.

Don’t Miss: Ha Giang Loop (3–5 days by motorbike), Dong Van Karst Plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass (incredible views), Local ethnic markets (e.g., Meo Vac)

6. Mai Chau: A peaceful valley with rice paddies and Thai ethnic culture.

Activities: Cycling through villages, Traditional homestays, Scenic mountain roads

7. Ba Be Lake (Bac Kan Province): Northern Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake.

Activities: Boat trips, Kayaking, Cave exploration (Puong Cave), Ethnic homestays

FOOD IN NORTHERN VIETNAM

Northern cuisine is more subtle in flavor compared to the south and central regions — focusing on freshness, balance, and herbs.

Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup) – Originated in Hanoi
Bun Cha – Grilled pork with vermicelli (Obama famously tried this in Hanoi)
Cha Ca – Fried turmeric fish with dill
Xoi – Sticky rice with toppings
Banh Cuon – Steamed rice rolls with pork and mushrooms
Egg Coffee – Rich, creamy specialty from Hanoi

WEATHER & BEST TIME TO VISIT: Four distinct seasons in the north.

Best time overall: September to November or March to April

TRANSPORTATION

Airports: Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) – Main hub
Train: Hanoi connects to Sapa (Lao Cai), Ninh Binh, Haiphong
Buses & Vans: Reliable to Ninh Binh, Ha Giang, Mai Chau, and Sapa
Motorbike tours: Common in Ha Giang, Sapa, and countryside areas
Local transport: Grab, taxis, and cyclos (in Hanoi)

ACCOMMODATION

Hanoi: Boutique hotels, luxury stays, hostels in Old Quarter
Sapa & Ha Giang: Homestays with ethnic families, eco-lodges
Halong Bay: Overnight cruises (from budget to luxury)
Ninh Binh & Mai Chau: Bungalows, farmstays, homestays

TRAVEL TIPS

Pack layers: It can be hot in Hanoi and cold in the mountains — even snow in Sapa!
Book Ha Giang Loop tours with reputable operators if you're not experienced on a motorbike.
Respect ethnic traditions: Ask before photographing people, dress modestly.
ATMs & cash: Available in towns, but carry cash in remote areas.
Try a homestay: It adds cultural depth to your trip.