8 Best Things To Do in Ha Giang and North Vietnam [with Suggested Tours]
Want to see the beauty of Ha Giang and North Vietnam? Read our tips below on the things to do in Ha Giang and North Vietnam with suggested tours!
Mountains, wonderful landscapes, old towns and villages, caves, waterfalls, and islands, all these scenic views of the overwhelming nature should not be missed on a trip through northern Vietnam. Even in hazy weather, it is a great experience to visit these places and get to know the friendly people of the ethnic minorities. To get to know more of the places you can visit in North Vietnam and specifically Ha Giang, we listed them down here.
List of Best Things to do in Ha Giang and North Vietnam
1. Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark
A beautiful mountainous region in northern Vietnam, the high Karst Plateau of Dong Van is magnificent. This plateau is also an ideal place to meet the local inhabitants. Nature, the landscape and the view are really breathtaking. Take your time and experience this region and its people as intensively as possible.
2. Ma Pi Leng Pass
The Ma Pi Leng Pass is definitely a must when riding the motorbike loop. From Dong Van, it leads up into the mountains and then meanders down to Meo Vac. You can drive this pass several times and the landscape will captivate you over and over again. The road is in reasonably good condition and you should plan enough time to be able to enjoy the view in peace.
Suggested Tour: From Hanoi: 5-Day Hanoi Motorbike Tour to Ha Giang
3. Lung Cu Flag Tower
View this post on Instagram
The flagpole is not only a place where people can visit but also a place to mark Vietnam’s sovereignty. Just be prepared as you will have to climb around 1,000 steps to reach the flag tower. But it will be all worth it as you will see the majestic view of the mountains and forests while standing on the flagpole looking down.
4. Thon Tha Village
View this post on Instagram
A magnificent little village nestled in the hollow of the mountains and in the middle of rice fields. You can easily walk around the village for an hour and have lunch with one of the families who run the homestays.
Suggested Tour: 5 Day 4 Night Trekking Tour of Ha Giang
North Vietnam
5. Hanoi
Of course, when we say North Vietnam, Hanoi should be on top of the list. Not only because it’s the country’s capital, but it is also blessed with a lot of wonderful places that tourists can explore. Being the center of the country’s culture, trade, and entertainment, it will introduce you to Vietnam’s rich culture and tradition. Some places you can go to are Van Phuc Silk Village, the Old and French Quarter, Hoa Lo Prison, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Suggested Tour: Legendary Hanoi: Full-Day City Tour & Water Puppet Show
6. Sapa
Sapa is a town located in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains. Because of its beautiful natural landscape with mountainous terrain, and green forest, it creates a tranquility atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Explore old villages, mountains, and waterfalls. Here, you can go to Fansipan Mountain, Muong Hoa Valley, Quang Truong Square, Ta Phin Village, and the popular Love Waterfall.
Suggested Tour: From Hanoi: 2-Day Spectacular Sapa Trekking and Bus Tour
7. Halong Bay
If you’re in to do some exciting activities such as scuba diving, rock climbing, and hiking, Halong Bay is the place for you! This bay’s emerald waters, towering limestone islands, and stunning caves is indeed a place to unwind. When you’re here, don’t forget to visit the Bai Tu Long Bay, Bai Chai Bridge, Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Dau Go Cave, and a lot more.
Suggested Tour: Halong Day Tour: Islands, Caves, Kayak with Dragonfly Cruise
8. Ninh Binh
A small city in Vietnam, Ninh Binh is boasting with a lot of picturesque landscapes, stunning mountains, pagodas, temples, and wonderful rivers. Trang An Grottoes, Mua Caves, Tam Coc, Van Long Nature Reserve, and Hoa Lu temples of the Dinh & Le Dynasties are just some of the places you can visit here. Ninh Binh is also near Hanoi so it’s very accessible.
Suggested Tour: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Mua Cave w/ Amazing View- All Inclusive
Where to stay in Ha Giang and North Vietnam
Budget Hotel
Ha Giang Amazing Hostel features a restaurant, bar, garden, and free WiFi. All units in the hostel are fitted with a kettle. The shared bathroom is equipped with a bath or shower, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. The accommodation also offers a Full English/Irish or Asian breakfast.
Price: Starts at $11 per night for Superior Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.
Luxury Hotel
Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort
Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a bar in Ninh Binh. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests. A buffet breakfast is also available every morning at the hotel.
Price: Starts at $104 per night for Superior Double or Twin Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast and offers a free cancellation.
These are the possible things you can do in Ha Giang and North Vietnam. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Ha Giang or in North Vietnam.
How to go to Ha Giang or North Vietnam from London
To explore North Vietnam, it’s best to start your trip from Hanoi as it has all the access from nearby attractions.
Via Vietnam Airlines: (one way)
*From London Heathrow – Hanoi
Ticket Price: £476.81
*Prices are subject to change. You can visit Skyscanner for more details about the ticket prices.
Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!
About the Writer
Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.