Northeast Vietnam, Vietnam
Haiphong and its natural surroundings present many opportunities for outdoor activities.
A relatively easy 1-2 hour round trip hike to a viewpoint with panoramic views of Cat Ba National Park.
Longer and more challenging. People often undertake this as part of a tour, trekking through the jungle to a remote village.
Cat Ba National Park offers opportunities to spot the highly endangered Cat Ba Langur. Often seen at specific research sites with local guides.
Always book adventure activities through reputable operators. Check weather conditions before heading out, especially for water activities. Safety is paramount.
Haiphong presents opportunities to experience its cultural fabric through performances, local communities, and traditional practices.
Many mid-range to luxury hotels offer spa and massage services. Independent massage parlors are available; choose reputable ones.
Traditional Vietnamese medicine (đông y) is practiced, including acupuncture and herbal remedies through local clinics.
Resorts at Do Son Beach and Cat Co Beaches (Cat Ba) for swimming. Many upscale hotels in Haiphong have swimming pools available for guests.
Experience unique local festivals like the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival or Tet Nguyen Dan.
Explore limited live music venues, nightclubs for local youth, and the Haiphong Opera House for cultural shows.
Discover traditional markets like Cho Sat, local food products, and ethical shopping practices.
Haiphong's urban scene offers options for evening enjoyment.
Tam Bac Lake Area presents some cafes and casual bars. Ho Sen Lake Area might feature more modern cafes and bars.
Karaoke bars stay open late and cater to local tastes, providing a popular entertainment option.
Numerous cafes provide a relaxed evening atmosphere for conversation and local beverage sampling.
Cho Sat (Iron Market) sells fresh produce, seafood, clothing, and local food, offering a true local experience.
Look for Haiphong's specific sauces, like chili sauce, dried seafood products, or general Vietnamese crafts like lacquerware or silk items.
Support local vendors by purchasing directly from markets. Avoid purchasing products made from endangered wildlife. Polite bargaining is common in markets.
Explore Haiphong's markets for local goods, souvenirs, and a look into daily life.
Engage in polite bargaining at markets, but be fair. This is a common practice.
Support local vendors directly. Avoid purchasing products made from endangered wildlife.
Major post offices can arrange international shipping. Private courier services, like DHL or FedEx, are available for more reliable but expensive shipping.
Luxury and boutique shopping options are limited. Major commercial centers might have international brands, but not luxury boutiques.
Look for "City of Red Flamboyant Flowers" themed items for an unique local memento.
Be aware of restrictions on certain items, like antiques or endangered species products. Keep receipts for valuable purchases.
While Haiphong is not a major hub for artisan crafts like some other Vietnamese cities, local markets present authentic daily life interactions.
Ensure a rewarding experience with these final considerations.
Modest attire is suitable when visiting religious sites, covering shoulders and knees.
Seek permission before photographing individuals, notably children, out of respect.
Be mindful of local traditions and etiquette, observing how locals behave.
Embrace both the city's urban charm and the natural beauty of Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay for a well-rounded Haiphong experience.
