A day trip from Hanoi is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and experience the culture, history, and natural beauty of Vietnam. With a variety of destinations to choose from, such as Halong Bay, Tam Coc, and the Perfume Pagoda, you can tailor your trip to your interests. Day trips typically include transportation, entrance fees, and a guide, making them a convenient and hassle-free way to explore. However, keep in mind that some destinations may require a lot of travel time, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
1. Halong Bay
A day trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay typically involves a drive through the countryside to reach the bay, followed by a cruise through the stunning limestone karsts and islands that make up the bay. You can also opt to kayak or swim in the bay, visit a floating village, and enjoy a seafood lunch on board the boat. Some tours may also include a stop at a pearl farm or a visit to a cave.
While a Halong Bay day tour from Hanoi is certainly possible and can be a good way to experience the beauty of the area if you’re short on time, many travelers would recommend spending at least one night in the area to truly appreciate its natural wonders and peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, a day trip can be quite hectic with a lot of traveling and limited time for activities.
2. Perfume Pagoda
Visiting the Perfume Pagoda in a day trip from Hanoi is a great way to experience the spiritual and natural beauty of Vietnam. The Perfume Pagoda, or Huong Pagoda, is a complex of temples and shrines built into the limestone cliffs of Huong Tich Mountain, surrounded by lush forests and streams. The journey to the pagoda includes a scenic boat ride and a cable car ride up to the mountain, followed by a hike up steep steps to the pagoda.
Once you reach the pagoda, you can explore the various temples and shrines dedicated to different Buddhist deities, and observe the locals praying and making offerings. The pagoda is especially busy during the annual Perfume Pagoda Festival, which takes place from the 6th day of the first lunar month to the end of the third lunar month.
Overall, the experience of visiting the Perfume Pagoda in a day trip from Hanoi is a unique and rewarding way to connect with Vietnam’s spiritual traditions and natural beauty.
3. Tam Coc
Tam Coc, also known as the “Halong Bay on land,” is a scenic area located about 100 kilometers south of Hanoi. A day trip to Tam Coc typically involves a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through caves and limestone cliffs, and admiring the beautiful scenery of rice paddies, lotus ponds, and local villages.
During the boat ride, you will be paddled by a local rower using their feet, which is an interesting and unique experience. You can also opt to climb up to the top of one of the karst mountains to get a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
The day trip to Tam Coc often includes a visit to the nearby temples of Thai Vi and Bich Dong, which provide a glimpse into the local culture and history. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to visit a local market or village to interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. Overall, a day trip to Tam Coc is a great way to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam.
4. Mai Chau
Mai Chau is a rural valley located about 135 kilometers southwest of Hanoi, known for its scenic rice paddies, traditional stilt houses, and ethnic minority communities. A day trip to Mai Chau from Hanoi typically involves a scenic drive through picturesque countryside, a visit to a local market or village, a cycling tour of the countryside, and a traditional lunch with local specialties. The trip is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and experience the natural beauty and traditional way of life of rural Vietnam.
5. Ba Vi National Park
Ba Vi National Park is located about 50km west of Hanoi and can be visited as a day trip from the city. The park is known for its lush greenery, scenic views, and fresh air. You can go hiking, bird watching, or take a cable car up to the summit of Ba Vi mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. There are also several temples and pagodas within the park, including the 11th-century Thien Son Pagoda, which is built into the side of a mountain. You can expect to spend a full day exploring the park and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
6. Duong Lam Ancient Village
Visiting the Duong Lam Ancient Village on a day trip from Hanoi is a unique and cultural experience. Located in Son Tay, the village is about 60 kilometers from Hanoi and is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, including old houses made of laterite bricks and wooden frames. You can explore the village’s narrow alleyways, visit its ancient temples and pagodas, and get a glimpse of rural life in Vietnam. Additionally, you can learn about the village’s history, dating back over 1,200 years, and enjoy local specialties such as Mia sticky rice and Gio Cha sausage.
7. Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Visiting the Bat Trang Ceramic Village on a day trip from Hanoi is a great opportunity to learn about traditional Vietnamese pottery making. The village is known for its high-quality ceramics and the chance to observe the process of pottery making from start to finish, including shaping, painting, and glazing. You can also try their hand at making their own pottery under the guidance of experienced artisans. In addition to pottery, the village also offers other handicrafts and souvenirs, as well as local cuisine.
8. Cuc Phuong National Park
Visiting Cuc Phuong National Park in a day trip from Hanoi is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Vietnam. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including over 300 species of birds, 36 species of mammals, and many endangered species like the Delacour’s langur.
You can take a guided trek through the park to explore its caves, waterfalls, and ancient trees, or visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center to learn about the conservation efforts for primates in the region. There is also a botanical garden showcasing the diverse plant life found in the park. Overall, it’s a peaceful and refreshing day trip that provides a glimpse into the natural wonders of Vietnam.
9. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
A day trip from Hanoi to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a great opportunity to explore Vietnam’s rich history and culture. Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties, and there are many temples and pagodas that still stand from this period.
You can expect to see the famous temples of King Dinh and King Le, as well as the surrounding landscape of rice paddies and limestone karsts. The journey to Hoa Lu takes around two hours from Hanoi, and you can hire a guide or take a tour to learn more about the history and significance of this important site. Additionally, many tours include a bike ride or boat trip to explore the surrounding countryside.
10. Thay Pagoda
Thay Pagoda, also known as Master’s Pagoda, is a popular options for a day trip from Hanoi, located about 20 kilometers southwest of the city.
The pagoda is famous for its beautiful architecture and scenic location, nestled in the mountainous landscape. You can explore the complex, which includes several temples, pagodas, and other buildings, as well as a large lake and surrounding gardens.
One of the highlights of visiting Thay Pagoda is the water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form that originated in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta. The show takes place on the lake in front of the main temple and features colorful puppets that dance and perform in the water.
In addition to the pagoda and water puppet show, you can also take a stroll around the lake or climb up the nearby mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
