Hai Phong(Vietnam) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors to Hai Phong, the top recommendation is Hyatt Regency Hai Phong, located in the vibrant downtown waterfront area. This modern hotel offers elegant rooms with views of the Red River, easy access to Hai Phong Cathedral and Central Market, and excellent service. For a more authentic experience, consider Hai Phong Riverside Resort, a tranquil retreat with private beach access, lush gardens, and cultural-themed accommodations.

Another great option is Westin Hai Phong, known for its luxury amenities and proximity to Ba Dinh Square and Hong Gia Pier. These hotels provide ideal bases for exploring the city’s history, cuisine, and scenic beauty, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for travelers new to the region.

The best neighborhood for tourists in Hai Phong is the Downtown Waterfront District, where major attractions like Hai Phong Cathedral, Red River Promenade, and Central Market are within walking distance. This area is also home to high-quality hotels such as Hyatt Regency Hai Phong and Westin Hai Phong, offering convenience, safety, and easy access to local culture.

For a quieter, nature-focused stay, consider Hai Phong Bay Area, where resorts like Hai Phong Riverside Resort offer private beaches, tropical gardens, and family-friendly activities. Meanwhile, Old Town provides an immersive experience with colonial-era French architecture, cozy guesthouses, and bustling night markets—perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and charm.

In Hai Phong, don’t miss visiting Hai Phong Cathedral, a stunning 19th-century Gothic-style church with intricate stained glass windows and a peaceful interior. Take a Red River ferry ride to experience local life—watch fishermen at work and enjoy scenic views of riverside villages.

Visit the Hai Phong History Museum to explore the city’s role as a key port and wartime hub. Attend the annual Tianhou Festival in late spring, held at the Mazu Temple, featuring dragon dances, traditional rituals, and vibrant street celebrations that highlight the strong Chinese-Vietnamese community heritage. Evening night market tours are also essential for tasting street food and feeling the city’s lively atmosphere.

Must-try dishes in Hai Phong include Hai Phong Bún Chả, a richly flavored vermicelli dish with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a savory broth—often served with fresh herbs. Try Gỏi Cuốn Hải Phòng, crispy spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, and aromatic herbs, perfect for sharing.

Don’t skip Thịt Nướng Cá, grilled fish skewers marinated in local spices and charcoal-fired for a smoky taste. Pair it with Coconut Pandan Jelly (Chè đậu xanh dừa), a sweet, cooling dessert made with coconut milk and pandan leaves—ideal after a spicy meal. Visit Central Market or night streets to savor these flavors firsthand and witness live cooking techniques.

Yes, transportation in Hai Phong is generally convenient for tourists. The city is well-served by Grab and Be ride-hailing apps, which offer transparent pricing and reliable service. Electric tricycles (Xe Om) and taxis are common and affordable for short trips.

The Red River ferry system connects key districts like Hong Gia Pier and Hai Phong Bay, offering scenic rides and efficient travel. For longer distances, Hai Phong International Airport (HPH) has regular flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, express buses from Hanoi take about 2.5 hours and are budget-friendly. Avoid peak traffic hours in the city center for smoother travel.

Hai Phong offers several family-friendly activities. At Hai Phong Riverside Resort, kids can enjoy water slides, sand play areas, and guided craft workshops like making Vietnamese kites or bamboo toys. The resort also hosts weekly family nights with games, magic shows, and storytelling sessions.

Explore Red River Ecological Park, a safe, tree-lined trail perfect for strolling with children, complete with birdwatching platforms and picnic spots. Weekly Family Culture Night Markets feature kid zones, face painting, and interactive performances. For educational fun, visit the Hai Phong Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits teach Vietnamese history through play—ideal for engaging young minds.

Hai Phong has a tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid summers and a rainy season from May to October. The best time to visit is from November to March, when temperatures range from 22–28°C, humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal—perfect for outdoor sightseeing and beach visits.

Avoid traveling during the typhoon season (July–October) due to potential disruptions. If visiting in the wet months, prioritize indoor attractions like the Hai Phong History Museum, Cultural Palace, or Central Market. Always check forecasts before planning, especially for river cruises or evening excursions.

Top shopping destinations in Hai Phong include Central Market (Chợ Cửa khẩu), a bustling hub for fresh seafood, tropical fruits like mangoes and rambutans, and handmade crafts. For souvenirs, visit Old Town Craft Fairs, where local artisans sell pottery, woven baskets, silk scarves, and traditional masks.

For modern retail, head to Hai Phong Mall, which features international brands, supermarkets, and dining options under one roof. Near Hong Gia Pier, small boutiques sell unique items like seashell jewelry, Mekong River maps on canvas, and vintage postcards. Bargaining is common—be polite but firm, and always compare prices before buying.

Hai Phong offers several romantic experiences for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand along the Red River Promenade at sunset, where city lights reflect on the water and distant boats glide silently. Reserve a dinner at Hyatt Regency Hai Phong’s river-view restaurant, complete with candlelight, local wine, and panoramic views.

For privacy, book a sunset picnic at Hai Phong Riverside Resort’s private beach terrace, with champagne and soft music. The Hai Phong Cathedral courtyard is especially enchanting at dusk, ideal for photos or quiet moments together. During the full moon, attend the Tianhou Festival Lantern Ceremony—a symbolic celebration of enduring love, adding magic to your trip.

Evening highlights in Hai Phong include the Central Market Night Market, open from 6 PM, where you can sample grilled fish skewers, Hai Phong vermicelli, and coconut ice cream while enjoying live music and local chatter. Take a Red River cruise at dusk for a serene, illuminated journey past riverside temples and fishing villages—some boats even feature live folk performances.

The Cultural Palace Square often hosts open-air concerts and dance shows on weekends. For a relaxed vibe, visit Hai Phong Riverside Resort’s rooftop bar, where you can sip cocktails with ocean views and listen to gentle waves. Avoid nighttime travel during monsoon season to ensure safety and comfort.