5 Ideas For Day Trips In Hai Phong
Over the past few years Hai Phong has become a popular place to go for a holiday. Both domestic and foreign travelers enjoy spending their summer days at the city. There are in fact more than just Cat Ba Island - Hai Phong has a lot more hidden gems for you to uncover. Read further to see what the top five best things visitors could do in this city.
Bao Dai Villa
This summer palace belonged to Vietnam’s last emperor, Bao Dai. It remains one of the most famous historical attractions in Hai Phong. As of 2025, only Hai Phong, Dalat, and Buon Ma Thuot still host these royal retreats, making them a valuable part of Vietnam’s heritage.
The palace showcases vintage photographs of the royal family and allows visitors to explore their living quarters, with the throne room being a highlight. Peering out of the windows provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery.
Additional services allow visitors to try on royal costumes, take photographs, and keep them as souvenirs.
Photo: agoda.com
Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is the most well-known attraction in Hai Phong, attracting a significant number of visitors for its breathtaking natural beauty. Some of the island's most alluring features include limestone formations, caves, mangroves, sandy beaches, and lagoons. The island offers a wealth of water sports activities, including swimming, kayaking, and scuba diving. Its beaches boast crystal-clear waters with fine golden sand beneath. Furthermore, the mysterious caves provide a chance to experience the wonders of nature. Watching the sunset over Lan Ha Bay is a highly recommended activity that truly captivates the senses.
Photo: dulichkhatvongviet.com
Do Son Beach
Beach enthusiasts will find relaxation and water activities at Do Son Beach. While the water quality may not match that of southern beaches, it remains a favored destination for locals and city dwellers seeking a summer getaway. The sandy stretch extends approximately four kilometers, offering opportunities for sunbathing, kite flying, and swimming.
Photo: wikidulich.org
Notably, Do Son is renowned for its traditional Buffalo Festival. Villagers prepare for this event for an entire year, showcasing their best buffalo warriors. This local festivity draws travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience and typically takes place in late September or early October.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island earned its name from the variety of monkeys residing there. Its relatively untouched landscape provides a harmonious habitat for these creatures and stands as one of the most fascinating attractions in Hai Phong. Visitors have opportunities to interact with and photograph the monkeys.
Photo: zingnews.vn
Tam Bac Lake
Located in the heart of the city, Tam Bac Lake offers a serene location for leisurely walks.
Additional activities include fishing and visiting the flower market on the eastern side of the lake. The beautiful flower market, known as Quan Hoa in Vietnamese, was established around 1941 by the French and features five arched-roof kiosks selling fresh flowers every day.
Photo: soha.vn
What To See In Hai Phong In 2 Days?
Renowned as northern Vietnam’s economic hub, you may be surprised that Hai Phong is clinging onto its colonial charm.
