03 March 2025

Best Day Trips from Hanoi

Top day trip destinations from Hanoi with scenic landscapes.

Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in culture, history, and vibrant energy. While the city itself offers countless attractions, its surrounding areas present equally enticing opportunities for exploration. Whether you seek serene natural landscapes, ancient villages, or UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there are numerous day trips from Hanoi that cater to all interests.

Venturing beyond Hanoi allows travellers to immerse themselves in the region’s stunning scenery, traditional craftsmanship, and unique local experiences. These excursions not only provide a refreshing escape from the city but also a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s remarkable heritage and natural beauty. In this guide, we will highlight the best destinations for unforgettable day trips from Hanoi, ensuring a meaningful and enriching experience.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Best Destinations for Day Trips from Hanoi

1.1 Halong Bay

  • Distance from Hanoi: 102 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on traffic
  • Location: Quang Ninh Province
  • Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Site, breathtaking limestone karsts, scenic boat cruises, floating fishing villages

Halong Bay, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders. Located in Quang Ninh Province, this spectacular bay is home to over 1,600 limestone islands and islets that rise dramatically from emerald-green waters. A day trip to Halong Bay from Hanoi provides a unique opportunity to experience its mesmerising landscapes, even within a limited timeframe.

Visitors typically explore Halong Bay on organised boat cruises, ranging from traditional wooden junks to modern vessels. These excursions often include activities such as kayaking through hidden caves, swimming in secluded lagoons, or simply relaxing on the boat deck while appreciating the scenery. Highlights of the bay include Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot), one of the largest and most impressive caves in the area, and floating fishing villages like Cua Van, where visitors can learn about local traditions and ways of life.

Although Halong Bay is a popular destination, its immense size ensures plenty of opportunities to explore quieter areas. Most tours include a traditional Vietnamese lunch served onboard, enhancing the experience of this unforgettable day trip.

1.2 Ninh Binh (Tam Coc and Trang An)

  • Distance from Hanoi: 55 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
  • Location: Ninh Binh Province
  • Highlights: Scenic boat rides, limestone karsts, ancient temples, lush rice paddies

Ninh Binh Province, often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land,” is a captivating destination renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts, tranquil waterways, and lush rice paddies. Located just 55 miles south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh is particularly famous for the Tam Coc and Trang An areas, making it an excellent option for a day trip.

Tam Coc offers stunning boat rides along the Ngo Dong River, with boats rowed by skilled locals using their feet—a unique and fascinating technique. As you drift through Tam Coc's serene waters, you’ll encounter limestone caves, verdant rice fields, and captivating rock formations. These landscapes are especially breathtaking during harvest season when the rice paddies glow golden.

Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts an intricate network of waterways surrounded by karst peaks. It is well-known for its ecological diversity and cultural significance. Highlights include boat tours through caves such as Hang Toi (Dark Cave) and visiting ancient temples like Hang Mua and the King Dinh Temples. Both areas provide unparalleled opportunities for photography and a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty.

Offering an ideal mix of cultural heritage and natural splendour, a visit to Ninh Binh promises a rich and relaxing experience only a short drive from Hanoi.

1.3 Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong)

  • Distance from Hanoi: 37 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
  • Location: My Duc District, Hanoi
  • Highlights: Scenic boat ride, ancient Buddhist temples, Huong Tich Cave, spiritual rituals

Perfume Pagoda, locally known as Chua Huong, is a significant site of Buddhist pilgrimage nestled in the limestone mountains of the My Duc District. Located just 37 miles southwest of Hanoi, this sacred complex can be reached via a scenic journey that includes a car ride followed by a tranquil, one-hour boat trip along the Yen River. The boat ride offers visitors panoramic views of serene waterways, fringed with lush greenery and limestone cliffs.

The heart of the Perfume Pagoda complex is Huong Tich Cave, also known as the “Cave of the Fragrant Traces.” Accessible by a moderate hike or a cable car, the cave contains sacred statues and is steeped in spiritual significance. Visitors can also explore several ancient temples and shrines within the area, including Thien Tru Pagoda, which dates back to the 15th century.

The Perfume Pagoda is particularly vibrant during the annual spring Perfume Pagoda Festival, which attracts locals and travelers alike for Buddhist rituals, cultural festivities, and traditional food offerings. Whether visiting for its spiritual atmosphere or picturesque landscapes, this day trip provides a harmonious blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.

1.4 Bat Trang Pottery Village

  • Distance from Hanoi: 8 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 30–45 minutes
  • Location: Gia Lam District, Hanoi
  • Highlights: Traditional pottery workshops, hands-on pottery classes, ceramic markets, historic craftsmanship

Located only 8 miles southeast of Hanoi, Bat Trang Pottery Village is a perfect destination for those interested in Vietnam's centuries-old ceramic tradition. Situated along the Red River in the Gia Lam District, this historic village has been a renowned hub for pottery making for over 700 years.

Visitors to Bat Trang can explore its numerous traditional pottery workshops, where skilled artisans demonstrate their craft using techniques passed down through generations. One of the highlights of visiting the village is the opportunity to participate in hands-on pottery classes, allowing tourists to create and paint their own ceramic pieces under expert guidance. These personalised creations can often be taken home as unique souvenirs.

The village also features a vibrant ceramic market, offering a wide range of pottery, from delicate tea sets and decorative vases to intricate tiles and sculptures. Each piece reflects the skill and artistry for which Bat Trang is celebrated across Vietnam and beyond. Ideal for families and culture enthusiasts, this day trip provides a fascinating look into one of the country's most treasured traditional crafts.

1.5 Duong Lam Ancient Village

  • Distance from Hanoi: 27 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 1–1.5 hours
  • Location: Son Tay, Hanoi
  • Highlights: Ancient village architecture, traditional Vietnamese houses, Mia Pagoda, Mong Phu Temple

Duong Lam Ancient Village, located in the Son Tay district just 27 miles west of Hanoi, offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage through its well-preserved traditional architecture and charm. This historic village, often referred to as the “living museum,” is renowned for its 400-year-old houses made from laterite stone and wood, reflecting authentic northern Vietnamese design.

A visit to Duong Lam allows travelers to wander through narrow, winding alleys lined with rustic houses and iconic communal courtyards. The Mong Phu Temple, built to honor the village’s guardian spirit, and the ancient Mia Pagoda, home to over 100 Buddha statues, are among the village’s most compelling landmarks. Visitors can also observe traditional practices such as soy sauce brewing and rice cake making, offering an immersive cultural experience.

Many day trips to Duong Lam include local lunches prepared by village residents, providing an opportunity to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a rustic environment. As one of Vietnam’s first villages recognized for heritage conservation, Duong Lam Ancient Village offers a serene and educational retreat away from Hanoi’s hustle and bustle.

1.6 Mai Chau Valley

  • Distance from Hanoi: 87 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 3–4 hours
  • Location: Hoa Binh Province
  • Highlights: Stunning rice terraces, traditional stilt houses, cultural performances, ethnic minority villages

Situated approximately 87 miles southwest of Hanoi, Mai Chau Valley is a picturesque haven nestled in the foothills of Hoa Binh Province. This tranquil destination is renowned for its lush rice terraces and the unique cultural heritage of ethnic minority groups, particularly the Thai people. The region’s serene atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes make it an ideal escape from Hanoi’s urban bustle.

Mai Chau offers visitors the opportunity to explore quintessential traditional stilt houses found in villages such as Pom Coong and Lac Village. These wooden homes, historically built on stilts to adapt to the region’s terrain, provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. Many day trips include engaging in cultural activities, such as weaving demonstrations or tasting authentic Thai cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy cycling or walking through verdant paddy fields, all while surrounded by spectacular mountain vistas. For a deeper cultural immersion, visitors may witness vibrant traditional performances featuring dance and music unique to the region. Mai Chau Valley’s harmonious blend of natural beauty and rich traditions ensures an enriching and memorable day trip.

1.7 Ba Vi National Park

  • Distance from Hanoi: 37 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
  • Location: Ba Vi District, Hanoi
  • Highlights: Scenic mountain landscapes, ancient temples, diverse flora and fauna, hiking trails

Ba Vi National Park, located about 37 miles west of Hanoi in the Ba Vi District, is an exceptional destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. This sprawling park is renowned for its striking mountainous terrain and offers a welcome respite from the city’s hustle. Nestled amidst mist-covered peaks is Mount Ba Vi, the park’s central feature, offering picturesque views and a serene atmosphere.

The national park is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including unique plant species and exotic birds, attracting both hikers and wildlife photographers. Tan Vien Peak, a popular ascent, features ancient temples such as the Thuong Temple, which holds deep spiritual significance. The walk to the temple, while moderately challenging, provides panoramic views of the surrounding forested landscape.

Visitors can also explore the remnants of a French-era hill station, including old church ruins that evoke a sense of historical intrigue. With its cool climate, hiking trails, and peaceful vistas, Ba Vi National Park invites visitors to reconnect with nature. As a day trip from Hanoi, it offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor exploration.

1.8 Cuc Phuong National Park

  • Distance from Hanoi: 75 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 2–2.5 hours
  • Location: Ninh Binh Province
  • Highlights: Vietnam’s first national park, dense rainforest, hiking trails, endangered primates, botanical diversity

Cuc Phuong National Park, located roughly 75 miles south of Hanoi, is Vietnam’s first and largest national park. Spanning over 88 square miles, it is situated in Ninh Binh Province and renowned for its ecological significance and unspoiled natural beauty. Established in 1962, the park offers visitors an opportunity to explore lush rainforests, ancient karst formations, and an impressive array of wildlife.

The park is particularly celebrated for its Endangered Primates Rescue Centre, which rehabilitates species such as the Delacour’s langur, an extremely rare primate found only in Vietnam. Visitors can also immerse themselves in nature through various hiking trails, ranging from short walks to more demanding treks. Notable routes include a visit to the Thousand-Year-Old Tree, an ancient and towering example of Cuc Phuong’s rich botanical heritage.

The biodiversity within the park is remarkable, with over 2,000 plant species and numerous bird, reptile, and mammal species. A trip to Cuc Phuong also provides a fascinating glimpse into history, with its prehistoric caves containing evidence of early human inhabitance. As both a conservation landmark and natural retreat, the national park serves as a captivating day trip for those seeking adventure and ecological insight.

1.9 Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

  • Distance from Hanoi: 58 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours
  • Location: Ninh Binh Province
  • Highlights: Ancient citadel ruins, King Dinh and King Le temples, surrounding karst landscape, rich historical significance

Hoa Lu, located in Ninh Binh Province, served as Vietnam’s capital during the 10th and 11th centuries under the Dinh and Le dynasties. Though much of the ancient citadel has been lost to time, the site remains an evocative glimpse into Vietnam’s early imperial history, with its serene natural surroundings enhancing its allure.

Key attractions include the King Dinh Temple and King Le Temple, both constructed to honor the nation’s early rulers. These well-preserved shrines exhibit traditional Vietnamese architecture, with intricately carved wooden interiors and stone courtyards that reflect the craftsmanship of the era. The atmosphere here is one of reverence, offering visitors a chance to step back into a pivotal historical period.

Beyond its historical significance, Hoa Lu is set against a stunning backdrop of limestone karsts and verdant landscapes, providing exceptional photographic opportunities. Many visitors combine their trip to Hoa Lu with nearby landmarks like Tam Coc or Trang An, adding depth to the experience. Offering a unique fusion of cultural insight and natural beauty, Hoa Lu is an excellent choice for those eager to explore Vietnam’s storied past.

1.10 Tam Dao Hill Station

  • Distance from Hanoi: 50 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 2–2.5 hours
  • Location: Tam Dao District, Vinh Phuc Province
  • Highlights: French colonial charm, cool climate, Silver Waterfall, Heaven’s Gate, Tam Dao National Park

Tam Dao Hill Station, nestled in the misty mountains of Vinh Phuc Province, is a serene destination offering a refreshing respite from Hanoi’s heat and bustle. Situated approximately 50 miles northwest of the capital, this former French colonial retreat is renowned for its cool year-round climate and idyllic natural surroundings, making it a perfect day trip.

Among its key attractions is the majestic Silver Waterfall, cascading dramatically through lush greenery, and Heaven’s Gate, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Tam Dao National Park, a biodiversity hotspot, features dense forests, diverse wildlife, and walking trails suited for all fitness levels. Visitors can also explore the remnants of French colonial architecture, notably the old church, which stands as a remnant of its storied past.

Beyond its natural attractions, Tam Dao exudes a tranquil charm ideal for relaxation. Local markets sell unique delicacies such as fresh chayote, a regional specialty. Whether seeking picturesque landscapes or a peaceful getaway, Tam Dao Hill Station delivers a delightful blend of history, culture, and nature within a short distance from Hanoi.

2. Frequently Asked Questions

2.1 What is the best time of year to visit these destinations?

The optimal time to enjoy day trips from Hanoi largely depends on each destination. Overall, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal, offering mild weather and clear skies. For lush rice fields in Ninh Binh or Mai Chau, visit during harvest seasons, typically September or May. Avoid Halong Bay during July and August due to typhoon risks. Cooler months suit Tam Dao and Ba Vi.

2.2 How can I travel to these destinations from Hanoi?

Travelling from Hanoi to nearby destinations is highly convenient with various transportation options available. For shorter trips, hiring a private car or taxi offers flexibility and comfort, while buses are an economical option. For Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, or Mai Chau, organised tours often include round-trip transport. Additionally, renting bicycles or motorbikes is a popular way to explore certain locations like Bat Trang or Duong Lam Village once you arrive.

2.3 Are guided tours available for these day trips?

A wide range of guided tours are available for all the featured day trip destinations from Hanoi, catering to diverse traveller preferences. Many tours include round-trip transport, professional guides, and often entrance fees or meals. Popular options such as Halong Bay or Ninh Binh frequently offer package tours combining multiple activities like boat rides or cultural site visits. Customised private tours are also available for a more personalised experience.

2.4 What are the costs associated with these day trips?

The costs of day trips from Hanoi vary widely depending on the destination, type of transport, and activities included. On average, joining an organised group tour costs £30–£70 per person, covering transport, guide services, and entry fees. Private tours or car hire generally range from £80–£150. Independent travellers may spend less, with public transport fares as low as £2–£10. Optional extras like meals or specific activities, such as boat rides in Ninh Binh, usually cost an additional £5–£20 each.

2.5 Can these trips be done with children or the elderly?

Most day trips from Hanoi can be tailored to accommodate children or elderly travellers, although destination selection is crucial. Options like Bat Trang Pottery Village, with its short travel time and hands-on activities, or Ninh Binh, offering gentle boat rides through scenic landscapes, are particularly suitable. However, sites requiring extensive hiking, such as Perfume Pagoda or Ba Vi National Park, may be challenging and should be approached with care. Always consider mobility and plan accordingly.



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