Living in bustling Hanoi, the team at Lily’s Travel Agency loves nothing more than escaping the city and reconnecting with nature whenever they can. And with Northern Vietnam as their backyard, they’re spoiled for choice.
If you’re traveling to Hanoi, take their advice and venture off the beaten path to explore these breathtaking destinations in Northern Vietnam.
Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is probably already on your Vietnam bucket list—and rightly so. Its emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts create a truly spectacular seascape.
For a deeper experience, consider staying on Cat Ba Island and venturing into Cat Ba National Park. Hike through dense jungle trails up to panoramic viewpoints for stunning vistas over the bay and surrounding islands.
Sapa
Another iconic destination in Vietnam, Sapa captivates travelers with its dramatic mountains, terraced rice fields, and cool mountain air. Yet it’s the people—the Black Hmong, Red Dao, and other hill-tribe minorities—who leave the deepest impression.
For an authentic Sapa experience, let yourself be guided by locals like Mao, whose warm spirit and infectious laughter make you feel at home in her remote village.
Ha Giang and Ban Gioc Waterfall
Travel further northeast, and you’ll enter the jagged peaks of Ha Giang and Cao Bang provinces. Known as the foothills of the Himalayas, this region is a paradise for adventure seekers. It’s best explored on two wheels, winding through epic mountain roads and breathtaking landscapes.
A loop through this region often includes the mighty Ban Gioc Waterfall, straddling the border with China—a sight that’s nothing short of majestic. Plan at least a week or two for this unforgettable journey.
Ba Be National Park
Nestled between Cao Bang and Hanoi, Ba Be National Park is easily accessible by bus in just a few hours. At its heart lies a serene lake, speckled with tiny islands and surrounded by lush forests.
Stay in one of the simple lakeside homestays, rent a kayak to glide across the peaceful waters, or take a boat trip to discover hidden caves and scenic hiking trails tucked into the park’s far corners.
Mai Chau
Short on time in Vietnam but longing for cultural immersion? Mai Chau is the perfect choice. Just three hours from Hanoi, this vibrant valley is home to the White and Black Thai people who welcome visitors into their traditional stilt houses.
Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, stroll or cycle through the emerald rice paddies, and soak in the peaceful pace of rural life. It’s the ideal place to unwind, connect with locals, and experience authentic Vietnamese culture.
Ninh Binh
Nicknamed the “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is famed for its dramatic limestone mountains rising from lush rice fields. It has even been featured in films like Kong: Skull Island for its cinematic landscapes.
Choose a guesthouse with epic views and relax for a few days, or embark on boat trips along tranquil waterways edged by rice paddies and towering cliffs. Don’t miss the chance to explore the region’s hidden temples and pagodas tucked down dusty lanes.
Northern Vietnam offers countless hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you’re after towering mountains, serene lakes, vibrant culture, or quiet countryside, let Lily’s Travel help you uncover the magic that lies beyond Hanoi.
