Things to Do & Must-See Attractions in Northern Vietnam

Author: Shrabona Borthakur on Mar 29,2023

Northern Vietnam is known for its diverse geography, which includes mountainous regions, fertile river deltas, and scenic coastal areas. The region is home to the capital city of Hanoi, as well as several other major cities and towns, including Haiphong, Hai Duong, and Bac Ninh. The culture of Northern Vietnam is heavily influenced by Chinese traditions, particularly in areas such as language, food, and art.

Importance of North Vietnam in Vietnamese History and Economy

Northern Vietnam has played a crucial role in Vietnamese history, particularly in the struggle for independence against foreign powers. It was the birthplace of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of the Vietnamese Communist Party and the leader of the movement for Vietnamese independence. The region was also the site of major battles during the Vietnam War, including the Battle of Dien Bien Phu.

In terms of the economy, Northern Vietnam is an important industrial and agricultural region with a focus on manufacturing, mining, and agriculture. It is also a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as Halong Bay and the ancient city of Hoi An drawing millions of visitors each year. Overall, Northern Vietnam remains a vital part of Vietnam's cultural heritage and economic development.

Getting to North Vietnam

There are several ways to reach Northern Vietnam, depending on your starting point and travel preferences. The most common way to reach the region is by air, with Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport serving as the main gateway. There are also several other airports in the region, including Van Don International Airport and Cat Bi International Airport.

If you prefer to travel overland, you can take a bus or train from other parts of Vietnam or neighboring countries. There are several bus companies that operate services between Hanoi and cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue. The train network in Vietnam is also extensive, with several daily trains running between Hanoi and other cities.

Transportation within North Vietnam

Once you are in Northern Vietnam, there are several transportation options available to explore the region. The most popular mode of transportation is by motorbike or scooter, which can be rented in most cities and towns. Taxis and Grab (a ride-hailing service similar to Uber) are also widely available, particularly in urban areas. Buses and trains are another option for longer journeys between cities, while boats and ferries can be used to travel along the coast or across bodies of water such as the Red River or Halong Bay.

Places to Visit in Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam offers a wealth of destinations to explore, from vibrant cities to rugged mountain landscapes, picturesque rice terraces, and stunning natural wonders. Each destination has its own unique character and attractions, making it a must-visit region for any traveler to Vietnam.

Hanoi

The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that is steeped in history and culture. The city is known for its Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleyways that are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Other popular attractions in Hanoi include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Halong Bay

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. The bay features thousands of limestone islands and islets that rise out of the turquoise waters, creating a stunning landscape that is best explored by boat. Visitors can take a cruise on a traditional junk boat, kayak through the caves and lagoons, or simply relax on one of the secluded beaches.

Sapa

Located in the northwest of Vietnam, Sapa is a mountainous region that is home to several ethnic minority groups. The region is known for its picturesque rice terraces, scenic trekking routes, and traditional villages. Popular activities in Sapa include hiking, visiting local markets, and learning about the customs and traditions of the local communities.

Ninh Binh

Known as the "Halong Bay on land," Ninh Binh is a province that is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including limestone cliffs, rice paddies, and winding rivers. The most popular attraction in Ninh Binh is Tam Coc, a series of caves that can be explored by boat. Other notable sights include the Trang An Grottoes and the Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Ha Giang

Located in the far north of Vietnam, Ha Giang is a remote and rugged region that is home to several ethnic minority groups. The region is known for its stunning scenery, which includes towering mountains, deep valleys, and winding rivers. Popular activities in Ha Giang include trekking, visiting local villages, and exploring the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark.

Mai Chau

Located in Hoa Binh province, Mai Chau is a peaceful and picturesque valley that is home to several ethnic minority groups. The region is known for its traditional stilt houses, scenic rice paddies, and friendly locals. Popular activities in Mai Chau include cycling, hiking, and visiting local markets.

Cat Ba Island

Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, Cat Ba Island is the largest island in Halong Bay and is known for its stunning beaches, scenic hikes, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the island's national park, kayak through the secluded bays, or simply relax on one of the pristine beaches.

Food and Drinks in North Vietnam

Northern Vietnamese cuisine and its distinct flavors and ingredients

Northern Vietnamese cuisine is known for its light, fresh and delicate flavors that showcase the region's abundance of fresh herbs, vegetables and seafood. Here is an introduction to Northern Vietnamese cuisine and its distinct flavors and ingredients-

Rice Noodles and Pho:

 Rice noodles are a staple in Northern Vietnamese cuisine and are commonly used in dishes such as pho, a popular Vietnamese noodle soup. The noodles are typically served in a rich and flavorful broth made from beef bones, onions, ginger, and spices. Pho is often topped with sliced beef or chicken, herbs, and bean sprouts.

Seafood:

Given its proximity to the ocean, Northern Vietnamese cuisine features an abundance of fresh seafood, such as fish, shrimp, squid, and crab. These ingredients are often cooked with fragrant herbs and spices such as dill, lemongrass, and turmeric to create dishes like cha ca la vong, a fragrant fish dish served with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and peanuts.

Fresh Herbs and Vegetables:

Northern Vietnamese cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh herbs and vegetables, such as cilantro, mint, Thai basil, bean sprouts, and lettuce. These ingredients are often served raw or lightly cooked and are used to add flavor and texture to dishes like goi cuon (spring rolls) and bun cha (grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs).

Pork:

Pork is a popular meat in Northern Vietnamese cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes. One classic dish is thit kho, caramelized pork cooked with fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper, which is often served with rice.

Rice:

Rice is a staple food in Northern Vietnamese cuisine and is typically served alongside most meals. Com tam, or broken rice, is a popular dish that features rice grains that are broken during the milling process. It is often served with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a fried egg.

Hue-style Cuisine:

Hue-style cuisine, originating from the ancient city of Hue in central Vietnam, has also influenced Northern Vietnamese cuisine. This cuisine is known for its complex flavors and presentation and features dishes such as bun bo hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and banh khoai (fried rice pancake).

Northern Vietnamese Must-try dishes

Northern Vietnam is home to a variety of delicious and unique dishes that are must-tries for any foodie. Here are some of the top dishes to try and where to find them:

Pho

Pho is a classic Vietnamese noodle soup that originated in Hanoi. It's made with a rich and flavorful beef broth, rice noodles, and slices of beef or chicken. One of the best places to try pho in Hanoi is at Pho Gia Truyen, a small and popular restaurant that's been serving up pho for over 70 years.

Cha Ca

Cha ca is a fragrant fish dish that's a specialty of Hanoi. It's made with marinated fish fillets that are grilled on a hot plate with turmeric and dill and then served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and peanuts. One of the most famous places to try cha ca in Hanoi is at Cha Ca La Vong, a restaurant that's been serving the dish for over a century.

Bun Cha

Bun cha is a popular Vietnamese dish that originated in Hanoi. It's made with grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly that are served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet and tangy dipping sauce. One of the best places to try bun cha in Hanoi is at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where former U.S. President Barack Obama famously dined during his visit to Vietnam.

Banh Cuon

Banh cuon is a steamed rice noodle roll that's filled with ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, and shallots and then served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce and vinegar. One of the best places to try banh cuon in Hanoi is at Banh Cuon Gia Truyen, a small and popular restaurant that's been serving up the dish for over 20 years.

Xoi

Xoi is a sticky rice dish that's commonly eaten for breakfast in Northern Vietnam. It's typically topped with savory ingredients like shredded chicken, fried shallots, and sliced sausage. One of the best places to try xoi in Hanoi is at Xoi Yen, a small and popular restaurant that's been serving up the dish for over 20 years.

Nem Ran

Nem ran, also known as Vietnamese fried spring rolls, is a popular appetizer in Vietnam. They're typically filled with ground pork, shrimp, and vegetables and then deep-fried until crispy. One of the best places to try nem ran in Hanoi is at Nem Ran Ho Tay, a popular restaurant that's been serving up the dish for over 30 years.

Drinks in Northern Vietnam

Coffee and tea are both popular beverages in Northern Vietnam, and they hold significant cultural significance. Here is an overview of some of the most popular local drinks in Northern Vietnam:

Egg Coffee

Egg coffee is a popular drink that originated in Hanoi. It's made by mixing whipped egg yolks with sweetened condensed milk and coffee. The resulting drink is rich and creamy, with a frothy texture. Egg coffee is often served at cafes throughout Hanoi, and it's become a symbol of the city's unique food and drink culture.

Ca Phe Trung

Ca phe trung is another popular coffee drink in Northern Vietnam. It's similar to egg coffee, but instead of using whipped egg yolks, it's made with a raw egg that's mixed into the coffee. The resulting drink is rich and creamy, with a slightly sweet flavor. Ca phe trung is often served at traditional cafes throughout Hanoi, and it's a beloved part of the city's coffee culture.

Tra Quan Nong -

Tra quan nong, or hot herbal tea, is a popular drink in Northern Vietnam. It's typically made with a mixture of dried herbs and spices, including cinnamon, star anise, and ginger. The tea is simmered with water and sweetened with sugar or honey. It's often served as a warming drink during the cold winter months, and it's believed to have medicinal properties.

Che

Che is a sweet dessert soup that's often served as a refreshing drink in Northern Vietnam. It's typically made with a variety of ingredients, including sweetened beans, tapioca pearls, fruit, and coconut milk. Che is often served at street vendors throughout Hanoi, and it's a popular snack or dessert.

Hidden Gems of Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best-hidden gems and places to visit in Northern Vietnam:

Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc Waterfall is located in Cao Bang Province, near the border with China. It's the largest waterfall in Vietnam, and it's a stunning natural wonder that's well worth the journey to get there.

Ba Be Lake

Ba Be Lake is located in Bac Kan Province, and it's a picturesque lake surrounded by lush forests and towering limestone cliffs. It's a great place to go kayaking, hiking, and exploring the local villages.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Pu Luong Nature Reserve is located in Thanh Hoa Province, and it's a beautiful area of rice terraces, limestone mountains, and traditional villages. It's a great place to go trekking and experience the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam.

Duong Lam Ancient Village

Duong Lam Ancient Village is located in Hanoi Province, and it's a well-preserved traditional village that's over 1,200 years old. It's a great place to go for a day trip from Hanoi and learn about Northern Vietnamese culture and history.

Mai Chau Valley

Mai Chau Valley is located in Hoa Binh Province, and it's a scenic valley surrounded by rice paddies and karst mountains. It's a great place to go hiking and biking and experience the local culture of Northern Vietnam.

Tips for Traveling Tourists

• Pack appropriate clothing: The weather in Northern Vietnam can vary greatly depending on the season, so be sure to pack clothing that is appropriate for the climate.
• Take precautions for food and water: Be cautious about drinking tap water and eating street food. Stick to bottled water and dine at reputable restaurants.
• Be mindful of cultural norms: Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.
• Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases: Learning a few key phrases in Vietnamese can go a long way in communicating with locals and showing respect for their culture.
• Plan ahead for transportation: Consider hiring a driver or taking organized tours to avoid the stress of navigating busy streets and unfamiliar roads.
• Take precautions for safety: Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Avoid walking alone late at night or in dimly lit areas.
• Research before trekking: If planning to trek through the countryside, research the trail and consider hiring a guide for safety and navigation.

FAQs

What is Northern Vietnam known for?

Northern Vietnam is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. It is home to Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, and many other famous destinations.

What is Northern Vietnam called?

Northern Vietnam is commonly referred to as Bac Bo in Vietnamese, which translates to "North of the Gulf" or "Northern Gulf" in English.

Is Northern Vietnam worth visiting?

Yes, Northern Vietnam is definitely worth visiting. It boasts stunning natural scenery, rich history, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine, including popular destinations such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, and Ninh Binh.

Is Northern or Southern Vietnam better?

It depends on personal preferences and travel goals. Northern Vietnam offers scenic landscapes and cultural experiences, while Southern Vietnam is known for its bustling cities and beaches.

Is it safe to travel to North Vietnam?

Travel to North Vietnam can be safe for tourists, but it is important to be aware of potential risks and exercise caution, such as avoiding street food and taking appropriate safety measures.

Conclusion

Northern Vietnam is a captivating region with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural scenery. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful countryside of Sapa and the majestic beauty of Ha Long Bay, there is no shortage of incredible experiences to be had. Visitors to Northern Vietnam can explore ancient temples and pagodas, sample delicious local cuisine, trek through lush rice terraces, and interact with welcoming locals. Despite its rapid development and modernization, the region has managed to preserve much of its traditional charm and authenticity. While there are some safety concerns to keep in mind, with proper planning and caution, North Vietnam can be a safe and rewarding destination for travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Northern Vietnam is sure to leave a lasting impression and provide unforgettable memories.