Dong Hoi Travel Guide in Vietnam + Haiphong Travel Secrets You Can’t Miss!

While most tourists rush to Hanoi, Hoi An, or Halong Bay, there’s magic to be found in the quieter corners of Vietnam. If you're planning a meaningful trip to Vietnam, make space for two underrated gems—Dong Hoi and Haiphong.

This guide walks you through a full-fledged Dong Hoi Travel Guide in Vietnam, filled with coastal charm, ancient architecture, and natural wonders. Later, we explore the vibrant port city of Haiphong, famous for its beaches, street food, and laid-back energy.

Together, these two cities offer a more local, soulful experience—without the tourist noise.

Part 1: Complete Dong Hoi Travel Guide in Vietnam 🌊🏯

📍 Where is Dong Hoi?

Dong Hoi is the capital city of Quang Binh Province, located on Vietnam’s north-central coast. It’s a scenic gateway to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and known for its peaceful beaches, colonial architecture, and local charm.

🛬 How to Get There

  • By Flight: Direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (via Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways)

  • By Train: Hanoi → Dong Hoi (~10 hours overnight); Da Nang → Dong Hoi (~6 hours)

  • By Bus: Long-distance sleeper buses available from Hue, Da Nang, and Hanoi

🏨 Where to Stay

  • Budget: Buffalo Hostel, Amanda Hotel

  • Mid-range: Muong Thanh Hotel, Luxe Hotel

  • Luxury: Sun Spa Resort (with a private beach!)

🌟 Top Attractions in Dong Hoi

1. Nhat Le Beach

  • Golden sand and gentle waves, perfect for early morning or sunset walks.

  • Local seafood shacks nearby offer grilled squid, snails, and beer.

2. Quang Phu Sand Dunes

  • Only 15 minutes from the city—great for sunrise photography and sandboarding.

3. Tam Toa Church Ruins

  • Historic Catholic church partially destroyed during the war, now a solemn memorial.

4. Dong Hoi Citadel Gate

  • Remains of the Nguyen dynasty-era citadel, a quick yet photogenic stop.

5. Mother Suot Statue

  • Tribute to the local heroine who ferried soldiers across the river during the Vietnam War.

🛶 Day Trips from Dong Hoi

1. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

  • Only 45 km away, it’s a must-visit UNESCO site filled with caves like Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, and the legendary Son Doong.

  • Go for jungle trekking, kayaking, or even multi-day caving adventures.

2. Da Nhay Beach

  • Translating to “The Dancing Rocks,” this beach features unique rock formations and calm tides.

🍽️ What to Eat in Dong Hoi

  • Bánh bột lọc: Tapioca dumplings with shrimp and pork

  • Bánh khoái: Crispy pancake topped with meat and herbs

  • Bún chả cá: Noodle soup with fish cakes

  • Local seafood BBQ: Best had fresh at roadside stalls along Nhat Le Beach

📅 Best Time to Visit

  • March to August: Warm weather, sunny skies, best for beach days and caving

  • September to November: Rainy, less ideal for outdoor activities

  • December to February: Cool and dry, ideal for peaceful exploration

Part 2: Haiphong Travel Guide in Vietnam 🏖️🍜

📍 Where is Haiphong?

Haiphong is a vibrant coastal port city in northern Vietnam, just 2 hours from Hanoi and a gateway to Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay. It’s less touristy than Hanoi but offers great food, French architecture, and nearby beaches.

🧭 Why Visit Haiphong?

  • Fewer crowds than Halong but close to all major attractions

  • Wide streets, colonial buildings, and an urban-meets-local feel

  • One of Vietnam’s street food capitals—without the Instagram fuss

🌟 Must-See Spots in Haiphong

1. Cat Ba Island

  • While technically a separate destination, it’s easily accessible from Haiphong via ferry.

  • Great for hiking, kayaking, and beach time.

2. Do Son Beach

  • Just 20 km from the city. Popular with locals for picnics and weekend escapes.

3. Du Hang Pagoda

  • A peaceful Buddhist temple built over 300 years ago. Expect bonsai trees and prayer bells.

4. Tam Bac Lake

  • A great place to walk in the evening, especially near the flower market area.

5. Haiphong Opera House

  • Gorgeous colonial structure built by the French—often used for public events and photography.

🛍️ Local Markets to Explore

  • Sat Market: Haiphong’s biggest traditional market. Find fresh produce, seafood, and street eats.

  • Hang Kenh Market: Known for handmade items and silk.

🍲 What to Eat in Haiphong

Haiphong is a street food paradise. Don’t miss:

  • Bánh đa cua: Flat rice noodles in a crab-based broth

  • Nem cua bể: Fried spring rolls stuffed with crab meat

  • Bánh mỳ cay: Spicy mini baguette sandwich with pate and chilli

  • Sữa chua nếp cẩm: Black sticky rice yogurt dessert

🏨 Where to Stay in Haiphong

  • Budget: Tay Dai Duong Hostel, Thien Hong Hotel

  • Mid-range: AVANI Hai Phong Harbour View

  • Luxury: Nikko Hotel Haiphong

🚆 Getting There

  • From Hanoi:

    • Train (~2 hours)

    • Bus (~2 hours)

    • Private car (~1.5 hours)

  • To Cat Ba:

    • Speedboat or ferry from Pha Got Pier (~45 minutes)

    • Many tours include Haiphong pickup

Insider Travel Tips

  • Best time to visit both cities: March to May or September to November

  • Sim cards work well in both areas – choose Viettel or Mobifone for best coverage

  • Local tip: Use Grab app for local taxis in Haiphong and Dong Hoi

  • Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples and speak softly in quiet zones

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add authenticity and calm to your trip to Vietnam, Dong Hoi and Haiphong are your go-to destinations. With serene coastlines, rich history, and finger-licking food, these cities offer a deeper connection to Vietnamese life.

Use this Dong Hoi Travel Guide in Vietnam to plan your nature-filled days and this Haiphong Travel Guide in Vietnam to uncover street food secrets, old French charm, and island getaways. Trust us—you’ll leave with a full heart and a full stomach.

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