Haiphong, a vibrant coastal city in Vietnam, is renowned for its captivating attractions and delectable specialties that allure visitors from all over. The city boasts a diverse range of experiences, from nature exploration and historical landmarks to thrilling water sports and relaxing resorts.
Must-Visit Destinations in Haiphong
Cat Ba Island
Approximately 9km from the city center, Cat Ba Island is a captivating destination that attracts millions of tourists annually. Accessible by bus, boat, ferry, or cable car, the island offers a refreshing escape with its pleasant weather all year round. From April to October is the ideal time to visit, as you can fully enjoy the beauty of this island paradise.
Cat Ba Island presents a plethora of exciting spots to explore, including Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island, Cat Ba National Park, and Cai Beo fishing village. Indulge in the unique cuisine of the tropical sea, such as salted sea cockroaches, abalone, and grilled sea urchin eggs.
The heart of Cat Ba Island offers a serene escape with its pristine beaches, including Cat Dua, Cat Co, Tung Lam, and Van Boi. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear waters that define these idyllic beach destinations.
Trai Son Limestone Lake
Dubbed as Haiphong’s “Tuyet Tinh Coc,” Trai Son Limestone Lake is a breathtaking destination nestled within the Trai Son limestone mountain. This hidden gem boasts a 20-hectare lake with crystal-clear waters, creating a mystical and captivating atmosphere. The deep blues of the lake contrast beautifully with the towering limestone cliffs, making it a popular spot for adventurous travelers seeking unique photo opportunities.
Years ago, this area was a limestone quarry for cement and construction material production. After excavation depths reached 20 to 30 meters, the site was abandoned, allowing rainwater to accumulate and form the stunning lake we see today. The water’s color changes throughout the day, from deep blues to lighter shades, adding to the mysterious allure of this natural wonder.
While the scenery is undoubtedly breathtaking, it is important to approach this area with caution. The high cliffs and chemically treated water pose potential dangers, especially for children. Visitors are advised to prioritize safety when visiting and capturing photos at this picturesque location.
In addition to this captivating lake, Haiphong’s Tuyet Tinh Coc is another popular check-in spot for travelers seeking unique and scenic destinations.
Doson Beach
Located 20km from the city center, Doson Beach is a renowned tourist destination in Haiphong. With its golden sand, gentle waves, and lush coconut groves, the beach offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors to unwind and relax. Bathing, strolling along the shore, and savoring fresh local seafood caught by fishermen on the same day are just a few of the enjoyable activities available here.
Doson also boasts intriguing attractions such as Ba De Temple and Bao Dai Villa, which bear the imprint of Vietnam’s last Nguyen dynasty king. Visitors can explore the rich history and cultural significance of these sites while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Doson Beach offers a variety of water and beach activities, including swimming, surfing, boating, and sandcastle building. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories together while enjoying the beauty of the sea.
Haiphong Railway Station
Haiphong Railway Station, a testament to French architectural influence, was constructed in the early 20th century. It is considered one of the most beautiful train stations built by the French in Vietnam. Despite the passage of time, the station remains one of the city’s most impressive structures, with the main building carefully preserved and the original iron columns supporting the canopy intact.
More than just a transportation hub, Haiphong Railway Station holds historical significance and has become a popular check-in spot for visitors seeking vintage and nostalgic photo opportunities.
The station’s vintage charm and historical backdrop make it a favorite among young people looking to capture unique and memorable photos.
Delicious Specialties of Haiphong
Spicy Fish Noodle Soup
Haiphong’s spicy fish noodle soup is a renowned specialty that captivates diners with its harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and fragrant flavors. The dish is characterized by the combination of fresh seafood, typically rohu or mackerel, which is cleaned, marinated, and fried to a golden crispness. The essence of this dish lies in its broth, carefully simmered for hours from fish and pork bones, resulting in a naturally sweet and flavorful base.
What sets Haiphong’s spicy fish noodle soup apart is the prominent use of fresh chili peppers, creating a distinctive spicy kick. This is balanced by the sweetness of tomatoes, Chinese taro stems, and herbs, resulting in a complex and tantalizing broth. Enjoy this signature dish at popular spots such as Le Loi, Van Cao, or Thang To, with prices ranging from VND 25,000 to VND 55,000 per bowl.
Crab Noodle Soup
Crab noodle soup is one of Haiphong’s most famous dishes, with eateries scattered throughout the city. The dish consists of two main components: the red noodles and the broth. The noodles, made from high-quality rice, are sun-dried, resulting in a chewy and aromatic texture. The broth, on the other hand, is crafted from fresh river crabs, carefully pounded and strained to extract their sweet and savory essence.
The broth’s golden hue comes from the crab roe, enhanced by the addition of tomatoes and Chinese taro stems. Chilli leaves, pork balls, and shrimp are also added to create a well-rounded flavor profile. Sample this iconic dish at renowned spots such as Lạch Tray Crab Noodle Soup, Cầu Đất Crab Soup, or Cố Đạo Market, with prices ranging from VND 20,000 to VND 30,000 per bowl.
Haiphong’s crab noodle soup is a culinary masterpiece, with its unique blend of red noodles, river crab broth, and fresh ingredients. It’s a must-try dish when visiting this vibrant coastal city.
Seabass Nem
Haiphong is renowned for its seabass nem, a delicacy crafted from carefully selected ingredients such as shrimp, crab, meat, and wood ear mushrooms. The unique packaging of this nem sets it apart, as it is skillfully wrapped into perfect squares, showcasing the chef’s attention to detail and expertise.
The key to enjoying this dish is to fry it to a golden crispness, revealing a crunchy exterior and a tender, sweet interior that bursts with the flavors of the sea. Seabass nem is an excellent choice for a delicious souvenir to share with loved ones back home.
Paté Banh Mi by the Lamppost
Haiphong’s paté banh mi, a street food staple, has become synonymous with the city’s culinary scene. The secret to its allure lies in the paté, a specialty made from fresh, high-quality pork liver, resulting in a creamy texture and distinctive aroma.
The paté banh mi is a harmonious fusion of textures, combining the crispy exterior of the slightly burnt banh mi with a soft and creamy paté filling. This unique delicacy, often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack option, has become a beloved symbol of Haiphong’s culinary culture.
The Beaches of Nha Trang: A Mini Hawaii that will Take Your Breath Away
In recent times, social media has been abuzz with a series of videos showcasing a breathtaking beach in Nha Trang, Vietnam. The crystal clear emerald waters of this hidden gem have earned it the nickname of “Hawaii in miniature”.
Hang En – A Unique Natural Wonder: An Unforgettable Experience in the World’s Third Largest Cave
Hang En is one of the most remarkable caves within the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park complex. If you yearn to explore this magnificent cave, the third-largest in the world, now is your chance to make that dream a reality!
The Forgotten Wild Berry: A Tasty Tangy Treat
Once forgotten, falling fruit ignored by all, this fruit has now become a gourmet delicacy sought after by discerning urban foodies. Its unique sweet and sour flavor profile tantalizes the taste buds, leaving an unforgettable impression on anyone who tries it.
The Village of Vietnam’s Most Beautiful Women: Descendants of Imperial Concubines
The ladies from this region possess an ethereal beauty, so much so that they are often likened to delicate pearls.
The Tasty Treat of Dong Nai: From a Forgotten Delicacy to a Famous Favorite with a Unique Flavor.
This particular delicacy makes many cringe at the sound of it. But for those who dare to take a bite, the unique flavor is sure to captake them.
