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3 years ago, you could have asked any tourist about Hanoi Train Street and received nothing but blank looks in return. Now, the track that curves through the center of the Vietnamese capital is one of the best places to visit in Hanoi and a popular tourist attraction for anyone wanting to see something a little out of the ordinary on their holiday.[incredible_toc] This full travel guide to Hanoi Train Street, brought to you by one of Vietnam’s leading tour operators – Incredible Asia Journeys - will tell you everything you need to know about the city’s newest tourist attraction.If you’re looking for more things to do in Hanoi after your trip to Hanoi Train Street, feel free to take a look at our full-day Hanoi tour all run by a professional guide from us.1. What is Hanoi Train Street?The name gives away the game with Hanoi Train Street. At its most simple, it’s a street for trains in Hanoi. If you’re thinking “Isn’t a ‘train street’ called a railway?” You’re absolutely right, but that name doesn’t quite have the same ring to it.The street cuts through the western side of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the bustling ancient heart of the capital where businesses and local houses are literally piled on top of each other. This clamoring for space eventually led to residents settling down next to the train tracks, with the government’s comically lax health and safety laws allowing it to happen.Houses are built high here and are mere inches from the trains when they pass through at multiple times a day. Because the locals of Hanoi Train Street have been putting up with the inconvenience for so long, they are very nonchalant about ceasing their activities, moving their possessions to the side, and waiting for the train to pass before carrying on their activities.Life has operated this way for years, since the early 20th century when the Hanoi railway station was built and Tonkin (north Vietnam) was connected to Annam (central Vietnam) and Cochinchina (south Vietnam) under French colonial rule. The generations of locals living on the train tracks have seen much, but many are still confused about the fascination in the cramped area of Hanoi they call home.Hanoi Train Street2. What to do at Hanoi Train Street?While, in the past, visitors to Hanoi Train Street might have been content with simply standing to the side and snapping pictures of the trains and the gorgeous street lined with houses and green foliage, tourists nowadays can expect a lot more. Here’s your guide to Hanoi Train Street and the things you can do by the side of the tracks:2.1. Get the perfect photoHanoi is considered a hugely photogenic city and it’s not hard to see why. Hanoi Train Street is one of the best places to take photos in Hanoi, especially when the train is coming around the corner and is framed beautifully by mismatched buildings and trees that lean over the tracks to create a beautiful tunnel. Of course, when the train is not passing through, you can take excellent, Instagram-friendly selfies, though it’s getting increasingly harder to avoid tourists doing the same thing.2.2. Sit down for a coffeeThis wouldn’t really be one of the top things to do in Hanoi if there weren’t any cafés here! Fortunately, Hanoi Train Street has you covered in this regard. Many cafés have sprouted up along the tracks as tourism continues to go, all providing an excellent, unobstructed view of the train pass about a metre in front of you. Like any tourist attraction in Vietnam, be prepared to pay a little extra for your coffee, beer or fruit shake here, but still at a price that is very affordable for most international visitors.2.3. Enjoy shots of rice wineIf you want to ramp up the energy a bit, consider going to Hanoi Train Street at night and taking a seat at Ray Quan, a fantastic bar that was one of the first businesses along the tracks. The gimmick here is to take a shot of rice wine every time a train passes in front – so grab some friends, grab a table, and grab some local liquor from the wide selection available here.2.4. Find fantastic and unique souvenirsOne shop stands out amongst the tourist-hoarding cafés on Hanoi Train Street – The Zó Project. This is a shop that specialises in traditional paper made by ethnic minorities, which was a piece of heritage almost lost until the Zo Project stepped in. Now you can buy postcards, sketchbooks, paintings and fans made of zó paper, with much of the proceeds going to the ethnic minorities in Mai Chau that produce them. Incredible Asia Journeys runs day tours from Hanoi to Mai Chau where you can see the beautifully simple lives of the valley’s ethnic minorities and their gorgeous green home.Enjoy a cup of authentic Vietnam coffee in Hanoi Train Street3. When to go to Hanoi Train Street?If you’re looking to get some great snaps, you’ll likely want to know the Hanoi Train Street schedule. Trains pass by here regularly, far more common than many other sources, who only report two passings per day, would have you believe.3.1. WeekdaysAfternoon: 3.30 pm Evening: 7 pm, 7.45 pm, 8.30 pm, 10 pm 3.2. WeekendsMorning: 6am, 9am, 11.20amAfternoon: 3.20 pm, 5.30 pm, 6 pmEvening: 7 pm, 7.45 pm, 8.30 pm, 9 pm, 11 pmAs you can see by the table, the best time to go to Hanoi Train Street is on the weekend, as trains are more common and more evenly spaced throughout the day. Naturally, coming at either 6 am or 11 pm will mean you’ll run into far fewer tourists than at the peak times of the day in the afternoon and early evening.It should be noted that the train times at Hanoi Train Street can be rather approximate, given that Hanoi’s public transport system can be pretty unreliable. Trains can be held up at road crossings because of Vietnamese motorists who refuse to obey the traffic lights (no surprises there!) and delays are common. Get to the street early and stay there for a while – your train will be with you at some point.Coffee shops on Hanoi Train Street4. Is it Safe to Visit Hanoi Train Street?Totally. Other sources might have you believe that the trains that run along the cramped tracks do so in a ‘hurtling’, ‘whizzing’ or ‘speeding’ manner, but this simply isn’t the case. All trains putter along the tracks very slowly and make their arrival known by a loud whistle beforehand. Business owners and other locals will ensure that everyone is safe on the side of the track before the train makes its passing. In fact, with all of the chaos of Hanoi’s overflowing pavements and its crowded roads, walking down Hanoi Train Street might even be the safest way to explore the city!5. Where is Hanoi Train Street?Unsurprisingly, if you follow the train tracks in Hanoi for long enough, you’ll find Hanoi Train Street. It’s located to the west of the Old Quarter, around 167 Phung Hung Street; or this is at least where many of the tourists gather. This is the corner where the train looks the most impressive in its arrival, though the street carries on for longer in both directions.If you want to get away from the tourists, we advise following the tracks down to the train station on Le Duan Street or heading further up Phung Hung Street, where the cafés and shops give way to residential houses.6. Nearby Attractions to Hanoi Train StreetHanoi Train Street is an excellent stopping point for your explorations of the Vietnamese capital. It lies in between the Old Quarter and Ba Dinh district, meaning that some of the city’s most attractive things to see can be found on either side of it:• St Joseph’s Cathedral (850m away) – This is Hanoi’s most famous cathedral and serves as an excellent if slightly out of place, background to photos.• Hoan Kiem Lake (1km away) – The true centre of Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake, where walkers, joggers, tourists and locals meet at all hours of the day. Come here on weekend evenings when the surrounding road is closed off to motorists.• Temple of Literature (1km away) – Vietnam’s oldest university is also one of the most ancient buildings still standing in Hanoi, with a 1000-year-old history and some gorgeous architecture and grounds to show for it.• Ba Dinh Square (1.3km away) – This is the political heart of Hanoi and the place where Ho Chi Minh gave his famous independence speech after breaking free of French colonial rule. The revered leader’s mausoleum is also here along with the Presidential Palace and One-Pillar Pagoda.Visit these attractions and more on a full-day Hanoi city tour with Incredible Asia Journeys. We are committed to showing you the best of our capital through safe and professional guidance. When you are in Hanoi you may wish to visit Halong Bay as it is the MUST destination in Vietnam to visit. There are a lot of cruises in Halong Bay for you to choose from. You can choose a 1-day itinerary, a 2-day 1-night cruise itinerary, or even a 3-day 2-night itinerary.For a 1-day cruise to Halong Bay, you may check Halong Bay Day Cruise for more information.For 2-day or 3-day cruise itinerary please check Halong Bay Cruises or Lan Ha Bay Cruises for different options for different budgets and styles of the cruise to pick up the best cruise and itinerary for your group. Thanks for reading this full travel guide to Hanoi Train Street!
Ninh Binh has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers who visit North Vietnam. It is not famous like Halong Bay but it is worth visiting besides Halong Bay. So How many days you should spend in Ninh Binh?The answer to the question “ How many days in Ninh Binh” depends on the time budget you have and the places you wish to visit in Ninh Binh. There are several places to visit in Ninh Binh like Tam Coc, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Bich Dong Pagoda, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Hang Mua Peak, Thung Nham Bird Garden, Phat Diem Stone Church, Cuc Phuong National Park, Van Long, Kenh Ga...[incredible_toc]How many days should I spend in Ninh Binh? It depends on what type of activities you like and you may choose for you the best places and it depends on how many days you have. There are some places where you will do the same activity as in Tam Coc, Trang An, and Van Long you will take a boat trip so you should visit one of them only. There are some pagodas so in your itinerary you should visit one of them and that is ideal.1. How many days should I spend in Ninh Binh? In general, 2 days is ideal to visit the highlights of Ninh Binh. If you do not have time, one day tour will be fine and below we will give you the best things to do with 2 days and the best things to do with 1 day trip.1.1. One Day to Visit Ninh Binh - What to visit?If your time is limited when you need to spend your time on other destinations in Vietnam and you only can spend one day for Ninh Binh. We suggest you can choose one of the day tours as below.Hoa Lu - Tam Coc Day TourOn this tour, you will visit Hoa Lu – The ancient capital of Vietnam from a thousand years ago and take a boat trip to Tam Coc along the Ngo Dong River. You will know more about the history of Vietnam and enjoy seeing the natural beauty of Tam Coc – Dry Halong Bay.Hoa Lu – The ancient capital of VietnamBai Dinh – Trang An Day TourOn this tour, you will visit one of the biggest pagodas in Vietnam and get to know more about Buddhism in Vietnam. You also take a boat trip to Trang An and enjoy seeing the beauty of limestone mountains and the rivers in this area. Trang An Complex1.2. Two Days to visit Ninh Binh - What to visit?2 days are ideal for visiting Ninh Binh as it is not rushed and you can combine different activities and you will have an interesting trip in Ninh Binh. You will save some hours for transfer also because if you visit Ninh Binh you will need at least 4 to 5 hours for transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and back to Hanoi so if you visit Ninh Binh in 2 days you will only need that duration for transfer and you can spend more time for doing tours.Bai Dinh Pagoda sightseeing (brunetteatsunset)Visiting 2 days in Ninh Binh, you can visit about 6 to 7 destinations depending on your interests.Below is an itinerary suggested by experts of Incredible Asia Journeys. If you do not like any activities in this itinerary and it is easy to change with other activities.Day 1: Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Cycling - Thung Nham Bird ParkOn the first day, you can visit 3 places adding more to a short cycling trip. You can start from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and it takes about 2 hours to drive to Ninh Binh. If you start from Hanoi around 7.30 to 8.00 AM then you will be in Ninh Binh around 10.00 AM.Hoa Lu Ancient CaptialHoa Lu is the ancient capital of Vietnam. It was the capital for the Dinh and Le dynasties from 1000 years ago. It was founded by Dinh Bo Linh in the 10th century and Dinh Bo Linh was the first emperor of Vietnam.The sparkling ancient town of Hoa LuTam Coc is located 14 km from Ninh Binh Town. Now, it is not the capital anymore as from 1010 it was moved from there to Hanoi and now Hanoi is still the capital of Vietnam. In Hoa Lu now, you can visit Dinh and Le Temples where we worship Dinh and Le dynasties. 1000 years ago the royal palace of the Dinh Dynasty was built there and now you still can see the remains of this palace. The ruined palace building under group 3 meters is still there and travellers still can see the old items used to build that palace by the royal family. That is an interesting place to visit and that is a live – museum. Tam Coc Boat TripTam Coc means 3 caves because you will visit 3 tunnel caves there. Tam Coc is located about 6 km from Ninh Binh. Travelers to Tam Coc can take a boat trip on Ngo Dong River to enjoy the sightseeing of this area. Along the river are many karst mountains and small rice farms. You may see the mountain goats climbing on the rocks or storks flying around in the blue sky.Boat trip in Trang An (brunetteatsunset)In the rice season, that is ideal to take photos of this area. Everyone will become a professional photographer just with a normal camera or a phone. On the way, you can talk with the boat rower and the boat rower is happy to support you and talk to you.Cycling around Tam Coc AreaCycling around Tam Coc is one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh. Beautiful areas of mountains and rural areas with fresh air always attract tourists to cycle around. The local people in Ninh Binh are very friendly so on the way you also can talk to them and they are happy to talk to you even they cannot speak much English. You can cycle inside the village and to the farm and back to your hotel or homestay. That is an interesting trip.Cycling around Tam Coc AreaThung Nham Bird ParkThung Nham Bird Park is located just about 6 km from Tam Coc Dock. That is easy to get to Thung Nham Bird Park by bicycle or by car. Thung Nham is the home of different kinds of birds like storks, herons, mallards.. etc. There are 2 species in the Red Delta Book, they are phoenix and flamingo. Thung Nham is really nice places for people who love nature and eco-tourism. Thung Nham Bird ParkThe best time to visit Thung Nham is from 5 to 6 pm or from 5 to 7 am. So you can cycle from Tam Coc to Thung Nham in the afternoon for seeing thousands of birds flying back home from other areas after one day looking for food. If you miss this afternoon then you can do it the next morning. Stay overnight in a hotel or a homestay in Tam Coc.Day 2: Bich Dong Pagoda – Trang An Boat TripAfter a night in Tam Coc, you can get up early to see local life in Tam Coc. That is amazing as you can see the real life of Vietnamese in a rural area.Bich Dong PagodaBich Dong Pagoda is a pagoda in a quiet village. That is a very typical pagoda in North Vietnam as it leans to the mountains and looks to a valley with a nice lake or river. The pagoda has a very good location and the monks in the past had to spend time for looking a good location for meditation. To visit Bich Dong Pagoda, you can go cycling from your hotel in Tam Coc for about 30 minutes. There are lower pagoda, middle pagoda, and upper pagoda. To visit all of them you will need to climb to the middle of the mountains to visit the upper pagoda in a karst cave. It is a quiet and beautiful area. Please note to wear long pants when you visit Bich Dong Pagoda.Come to Bich Dong Pagoda on Summer to see the lotus bloomingTrang An Boat TripAfter visiting Bich Dong Pagoda, you can take the transfer to Trang An Dock where you take a boat trip to visit Trang An. The boat trip in Trang An will take about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the caves we can visit on that day. It depends on the level of water so you can visit more caves or fewer caves because there are some caves you cannot visit when the water level is too low or too high. The local people will row the boat and they are very friendly. They do not row the boat every day because normally they work on farm and they only work as a rower some days per month in turn. After the Trang An Boat Trip, you can go back to Hanoi and spend 2 days in Ninh Binh.We hope that the information above is useful for you when you want to know how many days is ideal for Ninh Binh. Yes, 2 days are the best but you may spend more days in Ninh Binh if you really love the countryside of Vietnam.Hang Mua PeakIf you visit Ninh Binh in from March to early June then we suggest including Hang Mua Peak to your trip and you are in good health. To get on the top of Hang Mua Peak, you need to climb about 500 steps and it takes about more than 20 minutes. That is steep so make sure that you are in good health condition and there is no problem with health. View from Mua PeakThat is hard to do hiking there but the result is excellent as there is a beautiful view of Ninh Binh and Tam Coc in front of you. The rice season of Tam Coc from May to early June is very beautiful and that is the best place to Check-In.So Hang Mua Peak can be an option for you if you are at the right time, in good health condition and you are interested.See more information in a day tour to Hang Mua, Hoa Lu and Tam Coc.2. The best time to visit Ninh BinhAfter knowing how many days to spend in Ninh Binh, you may wonder when is the best time to visit Ninh Binh. The best time to visit Ninh is from May to the beginning of June and from September to October. That is the time when the sky is blue and the rice is ripened. That is a good time to visit Ninh Binh. You can take many nice photos of green and yellow rice fields. Please note that from May to June will be hot in North Vietnam. The temperature outside is about more than 30℃.Hoa Lu Ancient Town (brunetteatsunset)September to October will be cool so this time is a good time for visiting Ninh Binh. However, there is only 1 rice crop for Tam Coc boat tour so if you visit Tam Coc from September to October then there is no nice along the river.May to early June Tam Coc is the most beautiful in photos because local people grow rice along the river.See the best time to visit Tam Coc for more information.If you cannot visit Ninh Binh in the months above, then you can visit Ninh Binh in March to April and from July to August and there is still a green rice field. This time, the weather is cooler so that is ideal for travellers who do not wish the hot weather.See more: Ninh Binh Weather & Temperature: All You Need to Know3. How to travel from Hanoi to Ninh BinhThere are different ways to visit Ninh Binh. You can travel by train, taxi, motorbike, local bus, limousine bus, tour bus or by private car.Among those ways, we suggest traveling by a tour bus or a private car as a tour bus will pick you up and drop you off at your hotels so that is very convenient.If you do not have much and you do a day tour to Ninh Binh so a tour bus is ideal for you as you can save time for transfer and waiting and you can maximize the sightseeing time when your guide will arrange everything for you.Bich Dong Pagoda ExplorationOf course, a private car with a private guide is the best if you are a big group or your budget for your trip is high because a private tour will cost more than a group tour. This is also the best when you travel with a family with kids. Your guide will arrange everything for you and you do not have to worry much about scams or waiting time to look for services you are not familiar with.Now we hope that you have an idea of how long to spend in Ninh Binh. So with 2 days suggested by our expert then where to stay overnight in Ninh Binh?See more: How to travel from Hanoi to Tam Coc?4. See the best hotels and homestay to stay in Ninh Binh4.1. Emeralda Resort Ninh BinhEmeralda Resort Ninh BinhEmeralda Resort Ninh Binh is a 5 star resort in Ninh Binh. Located in Van Long Nature Reserve with a garden around the luxury rooms. There are different buildings in Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh and it is like a village in the country of Vietnam. There are 3 swimming pools and 2 restaurants, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh is the most luxury accommodation to stay in Ninh Binh.4.2. Ninh Binh Legend HotelNinh Binh Legend Hotel is located in a new area of Ninh Binh City. It is a 4-star hotel with a lot of rooms. That is the best hotel for big groups with deluxe services.4.3. Ninh Binh Hidden CharmLocated in the Tam Coc area, Ninh Binh Hidden Charm is one of the best options for travelers to travel to Ninh Binh and Tam Coc. You can walk for some minutes to go to Tam Coc Dock and it is close to the villages around Tam Coc so you can walk around or cycle around.With a friendly atmosphere and charming decoration, Ninh Binh Hidden Charm provides excellent services for travelers with high budgets.4.4. La Belle Vie Tam Coc HomestayLa Belle Vie Tam Coc HomestayLa Belle Vie Tam Coc Homestay is a 2-star homestay in Tam Coc. With a good location and friendly staff, La Belle Vie Tam Coc Homestay is one of the best options for tight-budget travelers. With the location in Tam Coc so travellers may get to the restaurants and go shopping easily around in the villages. There is a bicycle rental service also in the homestay.See more: Where to stay in Ninh Binh
You are planning a trip to Ninh Binh and you want to take a boat trip on a river in Ninh Binh. However, you have limited time in just one day so you may consider choosing Tam Coc or Trang An because they both seem very interesting boat trips with stunning scenery around with mountains and clear water. You may see there are many tour companies advertising for both of those tours to Tam Coc and Trang An and they both have good reviews. I am a tour guide and I sometimes get this question from clients “ Tam Coc and Trang An, which one is better?”.[incredible_toc]Get lost in the poetic beauty of Tam Coc Bich Dong, Ninh BinhIn fact, that is not easy to give advice for choosing Tam Coc or Trang An in general. However, in a special case, it is fine to choose Tam Coc or Trang An depending on some conditions like the number of travelers, religions, seasons interests,... Stay tuned! Below I will give some advantages/disadvantages in different aspects so that it can help you to choose Tam Coc or Trang An boat ride for your holiday in Ninh Binh.1. Tam Coc or Trang An? Which One Is Better?Many people say Tam Coc and Trang An are similar but different. Yes, they are right! You can see the similarities and differences below.1.1. The similarity of Tam Coc and Trang AnWhen you visit Ninh Binh, if you take a boat trip in Tam Coc or Trang An, you can experience an interesting boat trip with stunning caves while admiring thousands of karst mountains popping up above from clear water.Ninh Binh boat trip along the riverYou will do a boat trip along rivers with hundreds of limestone mountains along the rivers in both of the tours to Tam Coc or Trang An. And both of Trang An or Tam Coc tours you will take a sampan boat rowed by a local in this area.Tam Coc or Trang An is not so far from each other – Just some km so they share the same climate geography, and local culture.Ninh Binh makes tourists feel interested and say wow not only by no-word description of natural beauty but also by skillful boat rowers using their feet to row the boats. When you search images for Tam Coc or Trang An you may see many photos of boat rowers in Ninh Binh taking their hands over their heads and rowing the boats by their feet easily. That is amazing!Tourists take a boat ride on Trang An River in Ninh BinhHowever, you may not see those boat rowers using their feet on your trip because the local authority does not wish them to do that. The reason is "Respecting tourists". Anyway, you may ask them to do it if you wish and they may use the feet on the way where they do not see the security guards. That is also a way to rest their arms after a long trip.Ms. Thanh – A boat rower said that when you can use boat arms and feet then using feet is a better way as feet are stronger than arms but of course, that is only when you are skillful and you can use both arms and feet well.Both Trang An and Tam Coc, you will take a sampan boat without shelter so please bring a hat with you in case it is rainy or sunny.Traditional Trang An Festival in Ninh Binh1.2. The difference between Tam Coc and Trang An Boat Trip The scenery and boat trip Tam Coc has been known as Dry Halong Bay for a long time while Trang An is a new route, especially for international tourists. The length of a boat trip in Trang An and Tam Coc is different. The boat trip in Tam Coc is about 2 hours while the boat trip in Trang An can be from 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on the route.Many people say Tam Coc is more natural while Trang An is artificial. That is because in Trang An people widen some small caves to make sure that the boat can go through while Tam Coc is natural.Trang An sightseeingIn the rice season from May to early June there is a rice field in Tam Coc and the scenery is really beautiful while there is no rice field in Trang An. So in Tam Coc, local people still work along the river while no local people are working along the river because all this land is for tourism.There are some temples and pagodas along the trip in Trang An while the boat trip in Tam Coc will not stop for any temples. There is Thai Vy Temple which is not so far from the river where you take the boat trip but if you wish to visit it you should ask the boat rower. Your boat rower will stop for you to walk there and set up the meeting point. In this case, tips for your boat rower are advised.Boat Trip RoutesThere is only one route for Tam Coc, so when you buy the tickets you do not need to choose any, but there are some routes for the Trang An Boat trip so when you buy tickets you can choose a route with more or fewer caves and temples, shore trip or long trips. Golden rice field in Tam CocThe Tam Coc route starts at Boat Wharf – Ngo Dong River – Tam Coc (Three Caves) – Thai Vi Temple – Thien Huong Grotto.Coming to Trang An, there are 3 boat tour routes tourists can choose one route to visit the caves. Route one will take visitors through 9 caves, Trinh Temple - Tran Temple - Khong palace. Route 2 passes through 4 caves and Cao Son holy temple - Vu Lam Palace - Tran Suoi Tien temple. Route 3 includes 3 caves, Trinh Temple - Tran Suoi Tien Temple - Vu Lam Palace. Each tour lasts 2 - 3 hours.There are 3 caves in Tam Coc while there are 9 caves in Trang An and there are some routes which you can choose with more or fewer caves as said above.Hop on a boat ride to spend a relaxing time in Trang An ComplexTickets In Tam Coc, in the previous, you will pay for 2 kinds of tickets, one is sightseeing tickets, the other is a boat tour. However, at present, 2 kinds of tickets have been combined into one. Now, let's update the latest Tam Coc boat price in 2024!With a boat in Tam Coc, the maximum is 2 persons/boat. For adults above 1.3m, one person will pay 250,000 VND for a seat. Children from 1 - 1.3m will pay 120,000 VND per person, and those under 1m, will get free of charge. If you are a solo traveler and you want one boat for a private trip then you will need to pay 500,000 VND per person for a private boat. Best boat tour in Ninh BinhMeanwhile, Trang An boat tour price in 2024 for adults is 250,000 VND/person and for children under 1.4 m is 100,000 VND/person. The capacity of one boat in Trang An is for 4 persons.So if your group is 4 persons then each person will pay 250,000 VND for tickets. If you are less than 4 persons you can wait for full of seats with other travelers from other groups to save the cost. If you do not want to wait for other people for full seats, you can pay for full seats which cost 1,000,000 VND to save time or you want to have a private boat to travel to requested destinations, not following the usual route. However, waiting for others is not a problem there are quite a lot of travelers every day. Book Ninh Binh Tours OthersTam Coc is a small area and considered a small Halong Bay while Trang An is a larger area. While you are on the boat trip in Tam Coc, you will pass local houses and see local people working while the boat trip in Trang An will go through natural areas where you only see tourists.Tourist on Trang An boat tourTam Coc is really beautiful in the rice field but Trang An is still very beautiful and many say Trang An is more beautiful than Tam Coc.The best time to visit Tam Coc is from May to early June for the rice season. From March to April is good also when the rice field is green. However, if you visit Ninh Binh from March to April please do not visit Trang An as that is the domestic tourist season. It is very crowded because many local tourists are going to Trang An on a pilgrimage trip. So this time if you wish to visit Ninh Binh then Tam Coc is the best time to avoid crowds.If you follow Buddhism or you are Vietnam then you may like to visit Trang An from March to April. There is no matter for Vietnamese with crowds as they seem to like going to crowded areas and they feel that is interesting. Cao Son TempleTam Coc is more famous for foreigners while Trang An is really famous for domestic tourists as there are temples and pagodas along the boat trip so there are a lot of pilgrimage tourists visiting Trang An. So if you visit Trang An, you will see there are more local people in Tam Coc.2. Tips for Ninh Binh Boat TourEither Tam Coc or Trang An boat ride is on your Ninh Binh tour planning, keep in mind these useful tips to have the best boat tour in Ninh Binh:- Be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat. Umbrellas are available on each boat for guests to use.- Avoid peak times such as Tet and the Lunar New Year, if you prefer a quieter experience.- Stay hydrated throughout the tour.- Always prioritize safety by following the rules and wearing your life jacket.Until here, if you are still wondering about selecting Tam Coc or Trang An boat tour, don't hesitate to contact Incredible Asia Journeys to get the answer from our travel consultants!See more: How many days to spend in Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh is known as "Halong Bay in Land" of Vietnam and has become one of the most commonly visited destinations in North Vietnam, besides Halong Bay, Hanoi, and Sapa. However, if you come to Vietnam in December, you may wonder "Is December a good time to visit Ninh Binh?" The answer will be provided in this post by our travel experts.[incredible_toc]1. Weather in Ninh Binh in DecemberDecember is the coldest month in Vietnam in general and in Ninh Binh specifically. The average temperature falls to 18 Celsius degree in the daytime and under 11 Celsius degree at night. Since Ninh Binh has many mountains, it may feel colder in compared to the capital city, Hanoi. The good news is that there are not many rains during this month making it easier for travelers to visit Ninh Binh.Hang Mua Cave -Ninh BinhWhen coming to Ninh Binh in December, you should wear warm clothes, especially when you get on the boat in Trang An since you may feel freezing when passing through the caves.2. What to do in Ninh Binh in December?Now, let’s discover what you can do in Ninh Binh in December!2.1. Visit Bai Dinh PagodaBai Dinh Pagoda is located near Hoa Lu, belonging to the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. It is one of the biggest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam as well as in Southeast Asia which consists of more than 500 Buddha statues, especially the 10-meter-height bronze Buddha statue. Coming here, not only you can see the spiritual life of the local people, but also can enjoy such a majestic view to the surrounding mountains. Bai Dinh PagodaThe good news is that you don’t have to pay anything for the entrance fee. However, the way to walk to the pagoda is quite far, if you want, there is a tourist car available for you which costs only around 100,000 VND/person/way.2.2. Explore Trang An grottoesTrang An is one of the most beautiful natural places to visit in Ninh Binh which has a system of limestone which have existed for about 250 million years. Over time, caves and valleys were created by nature. Thanks to its craggy geography, Trang An was chosen as the North gate to protect the ancient capital of Hoa Lu by Dinh Tien Hoang Emperor in the 10th century. The best experience to have in Trang An is to take a boat trip through all the caves, paddy rice fields, and limestone which bring you the feeling of peacefulness and relaxation. The price is 250,000 VND/person for a 3 or 4-hour ride, in which you will get a seat in a boat with a capacity of 4-5 people and visit about 6-9 caves. As the water level is quite deep, it’s advisable to wear a safety jacket and be careful when on the boat.As in December, visiting Trang An would be a little bit cold due to the water, especially when passing the caves, thus, prepare a warm outfit for it.Trang An in festival season2.3. Admire Tam CocTam Coc is located in Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province. Its name means “three grottoes” which consists of grotto 1, grotto 2, and grotto 3. It is one of the commonly visited destinations in Ninh Binh which attracts a lot of tourists thanks to its poetic paddy rice field along the Ngo Dong River. To visit Tam Coc, you can take a boat trip which lasts about 3 hours. You have to go to Tam Coc ferry to buy tickets which cost 120,000vnd/person for the entrance ticket and 150,000vnd/boat of 4 Vietnamese or 2 foreigners for the boat trip.The golden color of Tam Coc among rice fieldRead more: Tam Coc or Trang An?2.4. Visit Hoa LuUnlike the other sites in Ninh Binh which offer beautiful nature, Hoa Lu has more of a historical value with a long-standing history about the foundation of Dai Co Viet – the ancient name of Vietnam. This is the capital of Vietnam during 3 dynasties, namely Ding, Le, and Ly. Until 1010, when King Ly Thai To decided to move the capital to Thang Long (called Hanoi nowadays), it became the ancient capital. Coming here, you will get to know more the Vietnam’s history, and see the old Vietnamese architecture and sculpture. When visiting Hoa Lu, you can visit 2 nearby temples: King Dinh Temple and King Le Temple which worship King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, respectively. Hoa Lu Ancient Town2.5. Discover Cuc Phuong National ParkCuc Phuong is the first national park of Viet Nam which is considered a lively museum of wildlife and precious species. Thanks to its natural beauty, the park attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to see the natural ecosystem, enjoy the beautiful scenery or research rare species. Come to Cuc Phuong National Park, where you can do some activities such as camping overnight, watching wild animals at night, kayaking, cycling, and visiting Cuc Phuong Museum.Cuc Phuong National Park Trekking3. What to eat in Ninh Binh In December?3.1. Goat MeatGoat meat is the most famous local signature in Ninh Binh which is very tender, not much fat, and flavorful. When coming to Ninh Binh, you can easily find many restaurants serving goat meat, one of the most delicious dishes is sliced goat meat with lemon, lemongrass, sesame seed, and some seasonings.Goat meat is a must-try food in Ninh Binh3.2. Rice CrustThis is a snack that every Vietnam person would buy back as a gift for their family and friends. Rice Crust is the deep-fried cooked rice topped with jerky pork. To buy it, you can go to any local snack stalls nearby famous places of interests with the price of roughly 50,000-70,000vnd/package.Com Chay or Rice Crust3.3. Eel glass noodleEel glass noodle in Ninh Binh is very special in compared with other provinces in Vietnam because the noodle broth is made of eel’s bones which make the dish so flavorful and rich. If you come to Ninh Binh, don’t forget to taste this exotic dish.A bowl of eel glass noodles4. Is December a good time to visit Ninh Binh?The answer is YES! When you take a trip to Ninh Binh, it requires a lot of outdoor activities. In the summer, it may not be very pleasant as you can become sweaty very quickly, but it’s much better when it’s December. Therefore, we believe that December is a good time to visit Ninh Binh.5. How to go from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh?There are several ways to transport from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh. In this article, we recommend 2 options for you:- By local bus: This is one of the cheapest options as it’s normally for the local. In addition, it operates every day and the whole journey takes around 4,5 hours. To get the ticket, you can go directly to the ticket counter at the Bai Chay bus station, and buy the earliest bus. The ticket costs approximately 180,000vnd/person/way. - By Limousine Dcar: This option is normally for tourists. If you come in the weekend or national holidays, we strongly recommend you to take a Limonsine bus as the local bus would normally be full during those days. The price is, of course, higher which is around 400,000vnd/person/ way. The good points are that there are only maximum of 9 people on the bus and it takes only 3,5 hours to reach Ninh Binh.Tourists can choose a limousine car to transfer to Ninh Binh6. How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi?From Ninh Binh to Hanoi, the easiest way is to go by tourist bus which will pick you up at your hotel (in Hanoi Old Quarter) and drop you off at the tourist attractions such as Tam Coc. This option costs you around 200,000vnd/person/way.On the other hand, you can choose to go by train which is a little bit cheaper (around 100,000vnd/way depending on the time and date) and takes around 2,5 hours. However, when arriving Ninh Binh Station, you have to find a local bus or a taxi to transport to your hotel. So overall, there is not much price difference between the 2 options.Read more: How many days to spend in Ninh Binh?To make it easier to travel, see some of our tours to Ninh Binh.
As a developing country located on the Pacific Ocean, Vietnam possesses many strengths to develop tourism. Indeed, in addition to new lands outside the territory, many excursion believers still choose to explore and check in at Vietnamese tourist destinations. Not only finding new places to explore, visitors also feel and rediscover the heroic history of the nation, as well as the wonderful natural scenery of Vietnam.[incredible_toc] Halong Bay - A UNESCO World Heritage Site So, let's find out the Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam! 1. Hanoi Hanoi, the heart of Vietnam, the City of Peace recognized by UNESCO is a cannot be missed destination in your Vietnam trip. 4000 years of history, culture, and lifestyle of Vietnamese converge in Hanoi. Hoan Kiem Lake Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, located in the north of the country. It has a long and rich history. It is also a cultural hub, with influences from French and Chinese civilizations, as well as various religions. Hanoi is a vibrant and dynamic city, with many attractions for visitors. There are many things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city. You can explore the Old Quarter, visit historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, enjoy cultural shows at the Opera House, shop at Dong Xuan Market, or take a cruise to Halong Bay. You can also try delicious Vietnamese food like pho, bun cha, banh mi, and egg coffee.Book Hanoi Tour Packages 2. Halong Bay If you travel to Vietnam, Halong Bay is a must-see destination for you as it is beautiful. A comfortable 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi capital city, Ha Long Bay or the Bay of the Descending Dragon, which was twice recognized as a UNESCO natural heritage, is one of Vietnam’s most prized treasures as well as the pride of all Vietnamese. Halong Bay's Islands and Cruises Halong Bay, whose tranquil beauty encompasses an indigo sea and more than 3,000 limestone islands and rocky outcrops, is both mystical and magnificent making it an exceptional feat of nature that rarely fails to impress. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular travel destination in Vietnam.It is famous for its thousands of limestone islands and caves, which create a stunning seascape. You can enjoy various activities in Halong Bay, such as cruising, kayaking, swimming, hiking, or visiting floating villages. Contact Incredible Asia Journeys to plan your Halong boat tour to get hot deals! The travel distance from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay is about 100 miles (160 km). The fastest way to get there is by car via the Hanoi-Hai Phong highway, which takes about 2.5 hours. You can also take a bus, a minivan, a train, a taxi or a seaplane, or book a cruise package.Find your best Halong Bay Cruises 3. Sapa Sapa is one of the best places in North Vietnam. When travelers visit Vietnam and North Vietnam, Sapa is a must-see for admiring the natural beauty and learning about the local life. Located about 350 km to the north-west of Hanoi, Sapa District in Lao Cai Province, is a very soothing place to visit, an attractive little town set over steep hills attracting a large number of international travelers for its views and topographic mountains at the average height of 1500m- 1800m, for its impressive, rugged scenery as well as for its rich cultural diversity. Sapa offers some of Vietnam’s best trekking, with stunning views of rice terraces, waterfalls, and villages. You can also experience the culture and lifestyle of various ethnic groups, such as the Hmong, Dao, Tay, and Giay. Trekking in Sapa 4. Ha Giang Ha Giang is a province in the far north of Vietnam, bordering China. It is known for its spectacular scenery of limestone mountains, winding roads, and colorful ethnic markets. Ha Giang is a great destination for adventurous travelers who want to explore the remote and untouched beauty of Vietnam. Lung Cu Tower Some of the best things to do in Ha Giang:- Visit Milestone KM 0 at the city center of Ha Giang.- See Twin Mountain Quan Ba which looks like two breasts rising from the rice field.- Explore Yen Minh Pine Forest which has a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.- Visit Lung Cu Flagpole which marks the northernmost point of Vietnam with a giant flag waving on top of a tower.- Learn about Hmong culture at Sung La Village which is also known as Flower Hmong Village because of their colourful costumes and houses decorated with flowers.- Shop for local products at Dong Van Market which is held every Sunday morning with various goods such as clothes, food, handicrafts, and livestock.Read more: Ha Giang Loop 4 Days 5. Hoi An Hoi An is a beautiful city in Vietnam’s Quang Nam Province and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 19991. It has a rich history and culture, with influences from Chinese, Japanese and French architecture. Rivers, rice paddies, beaches, and the countryside also surround it. You can enjoy many activities in Hoi An, such as cycling, boating, café-hopping, shopping, visiting ancient temples and bridges, or relaxing on the sand. Some of the popular attractions in Hoi An are the Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Ancient Town, Hoi An Night Market, and ALLEY Artist House. Japanese Covered Bridge The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to May when there’s plenty of sunshine, clear skies and warm temperatures. You can also experience some of the local festivals such as the Lantern Festival or the Full Moon Festival during this time. 6. HueHue was the capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. The city is located in the central part of the country, on the banks of the Huong Giang River or Perfume River, approximately halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and 2 hours drive from Da Nang. It is famous for its imperial citadel, tombs, temples, and pagodas that reflect its glorious past. It is also a cultural and religious center with many festivals and traditions. The Imperial City Hue is usually visited with an excursion to see the Imperial Citadel, ancient temples, pagodas and tombs. Some of them are declared by the UNESCO as the world heritage of mankind. The inspection can take from 2 to 5 days, depending on the number of places that you’ve already planned to visit. 7. Da Nang Located in the middle of Central Vietnam, between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City is not only one of the biggest cities in Vietnam but also one of the cultural and educational centers as well as the most popular tourist destination of the S-shaped country. The Golden Bridge Da Nang is a coastal city in central Vietnam, known for its modern development, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions. Da Nang is a convenient travel hub for exploring the central region of Vietnam, as it has an international airport and connections to trains and buses.Some of the popular places to visit in Da Nang:- The Marble Mountains: A group of five limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and views of the city.- The Dragon Bridge: A spectacular bridge that spans the Han River and breathes fire on weekends.- The Ba Na Hills: A resort complex on a mountain with a cable car, a theme park, and a replica of a French village.- The Son Tra Peninsula: A natural reserve with beaches, forests, and wildlife.- The Cham Museum: A museum that displays artifacts from the ancient Cham civilization that ruled central Vietnam.Find Da Nang Tours 8. Phu Quoc Covering 515 sq. km (199 sq. m), the same size as Phuket in Thailand, Phu Quoc, which is 50kms from the Vietnamese mainland, is the largest island in Vietnam really famous for its resorts and beautiful white sand beaches. Phu Quoc Island One of the best places in Vietnam to visit is Phu Quoc, an island in Southern Vietnam, famous for its tropical beaches, coral reefs, and natural parks. Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and a popular destination for water sports, such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Some of the attractions in Phu Quoc are:- The Phu Quoc National Park: A protected area that covers more than half of the island and hosts diverse flora and fauna. The Vinpearl Land Phu Quoc, a resort complex with a theme park, a safari park and a golf course.- The Dinh Cau Rock Temple: A shrine dedicated to the sea goddess that overlooks the fishing harbor.- The Phu Quoc Prison Museum: A historical site that displays the harsh conditions of prisoners during the Vietnam War.- The Duong Dong Night Market: A lively market where you can find seafood, souvenirs and local specialties9. Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh City (the old name of the city is Saigon) is the largest city in Vietnam, the locomotive of the Vietnamese economy, and the most important cultural and educational center of the country. Ho Chi Minh City is the largest metropolitan city in the South of Vietnam, in a picturesque place, in the Mekong Delta.The southern capital of Vietnam is more than a curious tourist destination. Whatever the traveler wants - rich excursions or a bustling nightlife, exotic Vietnamese cuisine or the usual European dishes, chic hotels or budget guesthouses are not difficult to find in Ho Chi Minh City.Bui Vien Walking Street at night10. Mekong DeltaThe Mekong Delta is a region in southwest Vietnam, where the Mekong River splits into many branches and canals before reaching the sea. The Mekong Delta is known for its rich biodiversity, agricultural production, and cultural diversity. The Mekong Delta has a long history of human settlement and cultural diversity. It was part of the ancient civilizations of Funan and Chenla, which flourished between the 1st and 9th centuries AD. It has been influenced by various cultures, such as Khmer, Vietnamese, Chinese, and French. Floating Market in Mekong DeltaSome of the activities and attractions in the Mekong Delta are: Taking a boat tour along the waterways and visiting floating markets, villages, and islands. Exploring national parks' natural beauty and wildlife, such as Tram Chim, U Minh Thuong and Tra Su. Learning about the history and culture of different ethnic groups, such as Khmer, Cham, and Chinese. Sampling local delicacies, such as coconut candy, snake wine, and elephant earfish.Read more: Things to do in Vietnam's Mekong DeltaVietnam's S-shaped land is a remarkable tourist destination, offering all sorts of experiences from trekking in the mountains, relaxing in urban night lights, resting on the beach, enjoying delicious food, and more.Each destination in Vietnam has its own meaning to make each trip an unforgettable memoryAnd it's not just about the 10 best places to visit in Vietnam above. This country has many things waiting for you to discover along the way. Prepare well for your trip to Vietnam and be ready for the surprises to come. Please contact incredibleasiajourneys.com to plan your own holidays in Vietnam.
To make your Vietnam trip unforgettable, you have to choose the best Vietnam Private Tours and the best local tour operator - but what are your expectations for a Vietnam holiday? Maybe a rich history, stunning scenery, golden rice terraces, enigmatic caverns, fine sand beaches, and delectable street food? Very inexpensive travel or even a luxurious getaway? Let's find out now![incredible_toc]In reality, Vietnam provides everything for everyone. It provides a wide variety of fascinating travel spots, including lively cities, azure beaches, rainforests, and mountains. Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia's travel diamonds, the ideal place for anyone seeking deep cultural encounters, and the right blend of the past, present, and future. Halong Bay - A UNESCO World Heritage Site When picking this complicated location, you can never go wrong whether you are organizing a cultural trip, considering a hiking adventure, or looking for a romantic break. Private tour packages from Incredible Asia Journeys provide a variety of destinations and activities across the whole nation, including the following top picks: 1. Experience a Short and Luxurious Trip to Halong Bay, Vietnam’s stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site 1.1. Amazing Hanoi - Halong Bay Golf Tour 6 Day This 6-day Vietnam Private Tour lets you play golf at three amazing courses in Hanoi and Halong Bay, while also enjoying the scenery and culture of these places. You will tee off at King's Island Golf and Country Club and Legend Hill BRG Club, both offering challenging and beautiful layouts. Then you will cruise through Halong Bay and play at FLC Halong Golf Club, a stunning course overlooking the bay. This package is ideal for golf enthusiasts who want to have a memorable and relaxing vacation in Vietnam. FLC Halong Bay Golf Club 1.2. Explore Hanoi To Halong 5 Days Explore Hanoi To Halong starts in the capital city of Vietnam - Hanoi and ends in Halong Bay. Clients will have a wonderful time for visiting different historical and cultural sites of Hanoi City and enjoying the trip in Halong Bay with an overnight cruise. This is a good option for Vietnam Tours for travelers don't have much time and want to enjoy the best of Hanoi and Halong Bay. Quang Phu Cau Incense Village in Hanoi 2. Immerse yourself in the History and Culture of Vietnam with Historical Tours 2.1. Highlights Of Vietnam Essence 12 Days Highlights Of Vietnam Essence is perfect for you to explore many interesting aspects of Vietnam for 12 days. Vietnam is loved by travelers from all over the world for its natural riches, stunning architecture, and many historic sites. The Vietnam 12 day itinerary starts in Hanoi and ends in Ho Chi Minh City with all the highlights destinations in Vietnam. Let us help you arrange the perfect Vietnam Private Tour in a 12-day itinerary schedule for your wonderful trip in Vietnam. The First Capital of Vietnam - Hoa Lu Ancient Capital 2.2. Authentic Vietnam Exploration 17 Days Authentic Vietnam Exploration starts in Hanoi and ends in Ho Chi Minh City. This 17 day tour in Vietnam is one of the best of the itineraries of Vietnam Tours which gives you the best option for you to learn more about history, local life, the culture of Vietnam, to enjoy the nature of the mountainous area. The tour covers most of the highlights of Vietnam from Hanoi, Sapa, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta. The Imperial City of Hue 3. Discover the Hidden Gems and Experience the Local Culture with Our Best Family Tours 3.1. Vietnam Family Tour from South to North 12 Day Between the bottom of the Mekong Delta and the top of Ha Giang province, Vietnam provides a host of opportunities for visiting families to explore its rich culture, food and intoxicating atmosphere. This Vietnam Private Tour runs along the length of Vietnam, exploring some of the more family-friendly destinations and engaging in activities that appeal to every age. Ben Thanh Market - A Symbol of Ho Chi Minh City 3.1. Deluxe Vietnam Family Tour 17 Day For 17 days, this Vietnam family tour shows you the best of a beautiful, fascinating and highly family-friendly country, built upon a culture of strong family ties that filters down to visiting tourists and their loved ones. We travel from Vietnam’s soaring north to its deep south, experiencing the best of its family-oriented destinations along the way. Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An 4. Incredible Asia Journeys offers Adventure travel style in Vietnam with diverse itineraries 4.1. Discover Vietnam Mysterious Northeast 11 Days Spending 11 days to discover one of the mysterious lands of Northeast Vietnam to admire its breathtaking beauty of plenty of mighty mountains and get a deeper understanding of the local culture that all ensure you unforgettable experiences. From many historical attractions, colorful hill tribes to the spectacular views of Sapa, Ha Giang, Bac Kan, and Cao Bang, you will have a precious opportunity to have a glimpse of Lao Chai Village of Black H’mong minority and Ta Van Village of Zay minority at Lao Cai. Or, discover the Dong Van plateau at Quan Ba Heaven Gate, and experience standing on the most terrific mountain road in all of Vietnam - Ma Pi Leng Pass. Admire the majesty of Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang, and stay overnight in the villages where has an unbelievably scenic backdrop and very friendly local villagers. Sapa Golden Rice Terraces 4.2. Best Vietnam Explore Itinerary 15 Day Best Vietnam Explore Itinerary is an extremely good option for travelers from all over the World. Vietnam is the best destination in Indochina because of its natural riches, stunning architecture, historic sites, and helpful people. This 15-day itinerary in Vietnam is one of the best itineraries for you to enjoy your Vietnam holiday. We have designed our Best of Vietnam Private Tour 15 Days program to ensure that you do not miss any of these unique and attractive highlights. Your experience in Vietnam could become one of your most wonderful trips ever. Cai Rang Floating Market in Mekong Delta 5. Enjoy the flavors of Vietnam with unique street foods tour 5.1. Vietnam Culinary Tour 12 Day Vietnam Culinary Tour 12 Days starts in Hanoi and ends in Ho Chi Minh City. What better way to experience a culture than through its food on your Vietnam Private Tour? Tantalize your taste buds on 12 12-day Vietnam Tour that takes you through Vietnam, finding culinary inspiration in the rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. Incredible Asia Journey is proud to be one of the best tour operators in Vietnam recommended by TripAdvisor. Hanoi Cooking Class 6. Why should you book a Private Vietnam Tour with Incredible Asia Journeys? • By using local staffs, we can ensure any information you are given is quickly, up-to-date and genuine. • You will get a flexible itinerary designed according to your interests, needs, and budget and based on the knowledge and experience of Incredible Asia Journeys's helpful consultants. • You can decide when to depart, where to go, which hotel to stay and what to eat that suits you best. • There will be only you and your loved ones, family, or a group of friends. A private Vietnam tour brings you convenience, comfort and safety when you are traveling with kids or elderly people. • Your personal tour guide will focus on your needs and is on hand to make sure you get the most out of each stop. • On all of our Vietnam private tours, we are able to set up exclusive experiences. It means you are able to access to special sights that aren’t printed in travel and guidebooks. • While private guided tours may seem expensive at first, you are actually saving money. A private tour with Incredible Asia Journeys is affordable. We offer budget, mid-range, and luxury options to suit every style of travel. We really hope that you will find our advice to travel Vietnam and help you plan your trip to select a suitable tour package, so you save a lot of time and moneys.
Having a long vacation in winter, are you looking to escape the cold of winter? Vietnam is the perfect choice for you this December! With its mild climate, majestic natural landscapes, and unique cultural experiences, Vietnam will bring you an unforgettable winter holiday.[incredible_toc]Moc Chau in December is the wild sunflower seasonSome are still wondering “Is Vietnam good to visit in December?” The answer is absolutely yes! December is considered the best time to visit Vietnam. Let's accompany Incredible Asia Journeys to explore why you should visit Vietnam in December!1. Vietnam Weather in December OverviewThe weather in Vietnam in December offers a pleasant getaway from the cold winter with 3 different climates in 3 main regions. Northern Vietnam experiences cooler temperatures, with occasional light mist. Meanwhile, Central Vietnam enjoys mild weather, with decreasing rainfall. Southern Vietnam remains warm and sunny, with minimal rain.Hanoi in winterOverall, the temperature of Vietnam in December with dry conditions and comfortable temperatures make it an ideal time to explore Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.2. Weather in Vietnam in December by RegionsLet’s dive deeper into exploring Vietnam in December by region and discover the best activities each has to offer!2.1. Northern Mountainous Vietnam Region in DecemberIn December, the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam, such as Sapa, Moc Chau, and Ha Giang, are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. It's an excellent time for trekking, visiting ethnic minority villages, and experiencing the breathtaking mountain scenery.Cherry blossoms bloom in SapaMoreover, at the end of December when the temperature falls under 5°C, you might even catch a glimpse of frost or light snow on the highest peaks, thus, many people are drawn to the area to hunt clouds and snow in Fansipan Mount, one of the rarest moments that visitors want to catch when visiting Vietnam in December.2.2. Northern Vietnam in DecemberNorthern Vietnam, including some destinations such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh, enjoys mild temperatures between 15°C and 22°C. Cold weather in Hanoi at the end of DecemberThe weather is mostly dry, making it perfect for exploring Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, cruising on Halong Bay, and visiting cultural sites like the Temple of Literature. The cool and comfortable climate is suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.2.3. Central Vietnam in DecemberWith destinations like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue, Central Vietnam weather December experiences temperatures from 18°C to 26°C.Hoi An in December As the Vietnam rainy season tapers off, you’ll enjoy more sunny days, perfect for exploring the ancient town of Hoi An, the imperial city of Hue, and relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang. The milder weather also makes it an ideal time for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor festivals.2.4. Southern Vietnam in DecemberSouthern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet, and the Mekong Delta, boasts warm and sunny weather, with temperatures between 25°C and 30°C. Phu Quoc Island BeachThe dry season is in full swing, offering perfect conditions for exploring the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, taking a boat tour of the Mekong Delta, and relaxing on the beaches of Phan Thiet or Phu Quoc Island. The vibrant city life and lush landscapes are at their best during this time. Let Incredible Asia Journeys be your guide during Southern Vietnam tours!3. Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in DecemberDecember is a wonderful time to explore Vietnam’s diverse and captivating destinations. You don’t have to worry about where to go in Vietnam in December, because we've got you covered with the TOP Vietnam tourist attractions for this month!3.1. SapaNestled amidst breathtaking mountains, Sapa in December offers a cool and refreshing escape. Hike through captivating landscapes, witness the mesmerizing beauty of rice paddies, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of ethnic Hmong communities.Cherry blossoms bloom in O Long tea hill SapaPlus, every year from December to January, the Cherry Blossoms in Sapa will begin to bloom. After blooming, peach blossoms usually last only 1 to 2 weeks. You can go towards O Quy Ho Pass or O Long Tea Hill to see this flower.3.2. Moc ChauKnown for its beautiful flower fields and vast tea plantations, Moc Chau in December is a sight to behold. Embrace the cool breeze as you explore vast tea plantations and delve into the unique customs of the Hmong people.Season of ripe persimmon trees in Moc ChauAs winter approaches, the last months of the year will be the season of ripe persimmon trees in Moc Chau. Come here to savor the sweet taste of persimmon one of the typical fruits in Vietnam in December!3.3. Ha GiangHa Giang offers dramatic karst landscapes and winding mountain passes. December’s cool temperatures make it an excellent time for motorbike tours and trekking through this remote and breathtaking region.Ha Giang in DecemberAlso, forests of wild chrysanthemums with romantic orange colors are also a characteristic of Ha Giang in December. These flowers grow among rocks and mountains to show off their brilliant colors. You can easily see them on the way to Dong Van town, at the foot of Ma Pi Leng pass, Khau Vai, or on the way to Meo Vac,... 3.4. HanoiVietnam’s capital, Hanoi, is vibrant and bustling in December with mild weather. The cool climate is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities such as exploring the historic Old Quarter, visiting iconic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, and enjoying the city’s rich culinary scene.Vibrant Hanoi in Christmas atmosphereDuring the Christmas season, Hanoi in December with its characteristic coldness brings people closer together. One of the notable Christmas venues in Hanoi that you cannot miss is the St. Joseph's Cathedral. On this period, the church is decorated with thousands of sparkling lights, creating a sparkling and extremely vibrant space.3.5. Da NangDa Nang in December offers pleasant weather with fewer rainy days in comparison to November, making it great for visiting its stunning beaches, the Marble Mountains, and the iconic Dragon Bridge - those are all the best things to do in Da Nang in December.Dragon Bridge Da NangAdditionally, the nearby ancient town of Hoi An, with its charming lantern-lit streets, is also a must-visit. You can combine to visit 2 destinations in 1 Central Vietnam tour.3.6. Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh City, with its warm and sunny weather in December without disturbing rainfall, is perfect for exploring its bustling streets, historic landmarks like the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum, and vibrant markets.Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh CityWhen exploring Ho Chi Minh in December, tourists can experience the festive Christmas atmosphere welcoming the sparkling new year across the city. At the same time, don't miss out on end-of-season promotions from famous brands and luxury shopping centers.3.7. Phu Quoc IslandPhu Quoc Island is absolutely amazing in December! The beaches are stunning, the waters are super clear, and the forests are lush and beautiful. It is said that December is the best time to visit Phu Quoc, therefore, it's the peak season on this so-called “Pearl Island”.Phu Quoc starfish in DecemberYou'll have a blast snorkeling, diving, or just chilling on the sandy shores. The Vietnam weather in that period is dry and sunny, so it's perfect for a beach holiday & water activities. From December to April, the Phu Quoc sea is calm and the water is clear, making it the best time to spot starfish. You've got to check out Rach Vem Fish Village for this cool experience. Plan your Phu Quoc tours now to enjoy beach holidays this December!4. Festivals in Vietnam in DecemberDecember in Vietnam is a vibrant month filled with cultural festivities and celebrations. Here are some notable festivals you can experience to add more joy to your Vietnam travels!4.1. ChristmasWhile not a traditional Vietnamese holiday, Christmas has become widely celebrated, especially in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Shops, streets, and churches are adorned with lights, Christmas trees, and festive ornaments. You can attend Midnight Mass at grand cathedrals like St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi and Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, there are Christmas markets, concerts, and special events in hotels and restaurants.4.2. Dalat Flower FestivalDalat Flower FestivalHeld every two years in December, the Dalat Flower Festival is a stunning celebration of the city’s floral beauty. The festival features elaborate flower displays, parades, cultural performances, and agricultural fairs. Visitors can enjoy flower arrangement competitions, visit gardens, and explore the vibrant flower markets.4.3. New Year's EveNew Year’s Eve is celebrated with much enthusiasm across Vietnam. Major cities host large public events with live music, dance performances, and spectacular fireworks displays. Popular spots include Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi and Nguyen Hue Walking Street in Ho Chi Minh City, where crowds gather to countdown to the New Year.Check out the Christmas & New Year Holiday in Northern Vietnam tour to discover the cultural beauty of Vietnam on the last and very first day of the year!New year's eve in Hoan Kiem Lake4.4. Sapa Winter CarnivalThe Winter Carnival in Sapa is a unique festival that celebrates the cold season in late December with a blend of local culture and festive activities. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, participate in winter sports, and admire ice sculptures. The carnival is a great way to experience the cultural richness of the ethnic minority communities in the region.4.5. Hoi An Lantern FestivalHoi An Lantern FestivalAlthough it occurs monthly on the 14th full moon day, the Hoi An Lantern Festival in December is particularly enchanting. The Hoi An Ancient Town is decorated with thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Then, you can take part in paper lantern-making workshops, release lanterns on the river for good luck, and enjoy traditional music and dance performances.5. Best Things to Eat in Vietnam in DecemberDecember offers a unique chance to savor the country's vibrant culinary scene with seasonal specialties and festive treats. Here's some delicious dishes awaiting you to try in Vietnam tours:- Com Lam (Bamboo Sticky Rice): This fragrant dish features glutinous rice cooked inside bamboo tubes over charcoal. The smoky flavor and unique texture make it a delightful seasonal treat, especially in the cooler northern regions.Com Lam (Bamboo Sticky Rice)- Bun Bo Hue (Hue Beef Noodle Soup): This iconic dish from Hue warms you up from within. Savory beef broth brimming with rice noodles, tender beef slices, and a vibrant array of herbs and vegetables is a must-try in December's cooler weather (especially in Central Vietnam).- Banh Mi: This popular street food is a delightful combination of crusty French bread filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying bite on the go, it's a staple year-round but especially comforting during cooler December days.Hanoi food tour- Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles): Originating in Hanoi, this dish features flavorful grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. The smoky aroma of the grilled pork and the refreshing noodles make it a perfect winter warmer.Bun Cha Hanoi- Fresh Winter Fruits: December welcomes an abundance of fresh fruits like persimmons, strawberries, and grapefruits. You can enjoy them on their own or mix them into refreshing juices and smoothies.6. What to Wear for Vietnam in DecemberIn December, each region of Vietnam experiences different climates, so tourists should consider appropriate clothing to suit each area:- Northern Vietnam: The weather is cool to cold, so pack warm clothing such as jackets, sweaters, long pants, and scarves. Layering is key to adjusting to varying temperatures, especially in mountainous areas like Sapa where it can get quite chilly.Cold weather in Northern Vietnam in December- Central Vietnam: Expect mild weather, so light to medium-weight clothing is suitable. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings, particularly in places like Da Nang and Hoi An.- Southern Vietnam: The climate is warm and sunny, so light, breathable clothing such as shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses are ideal. A light jacket may be useful for cooler nights. Comfortable footwear like sandals is also recommended for beach visits.7. Tips for Visiting Vietnam in December While the weather conditions in December make it an excellent time to visit Vietnam, keep in mind a few tips and considerations!- Book your accommodations, tours & transportation well in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates as December is a popular travel period.- Pack layers, as the evenings and early mornings can be cooler, especially in the Northern regions- Celebrate festive occasions & participate in the various cultural and religious celebrations taking place throughout the country, such as Christmas, New Year's Eve, and local festivities.- Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites or attending festivals.- Be sure to apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated, especially in the southern regions. - Consider booking a guided tour with knowledgeable local guides providing Vietnamese invaluable insights and ensuring a seamless travel experience. Incredible Asia Journeys is here to help you create an optimized trip! You can look into an available tour such as Authentic Vietnam in Depth which is intensively designed for throughout Vietnam's heritage.So, that is all the necessary information about the climate in Vietnam in December and PRO tips that we want to provide before setting foot on your Vietnam travels in December. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites of Hanoi, trekking through the mountains of Sapa, relaxing on the beaches of Phu Quoc, or immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City, Incredible Asia Journeys can create your Vietnam travel perfectly. December is the high season of Vietnam travel, thus contact us today to secure your spot!
The turning from the old year to the new one is such a special time full of magic! Have you ever wondered how people all over the world celebrate their new year? Let Incredible Asia Journeys tell you about the delightful New Year Holiday in Vietnam! This blog will show you all the exciting things to do and the best places to visit Vietnam during the New Year trip. [incredible_toc]Stay tuned to uncover why Vietnam should be at the top of your list for this upcoming New Year holiday!1. New Year Holiday in Vietnam OverviewTourists make Banh Chung (Chung Cake) in Tet occasionAs a nation deeply influenced by Eastern culture, Vietnam celebrates 2 types of New Year: the internationally recognized Gregorian New Year and the traditional Lunar New Year, also known as Tet. Thus, the country observes two distinct New Year holidays, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and significance in Vietnamese culture.1.1. Gregorian New Year in VietnamIn Vietnam, people come together to celebrate the Gregorian New Year on January 1st with joyful and lively festivities. Just like in many parts of the world, everyone gets the day off to enjoy the holiday. In cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue, you can expect to find exciting parties and countdown events on the eve of December 31st to welcome the new year with open arms.1.2. Lunar New Year in Vietnam (Tet Holiday) Tet atmosphere in VietnamWhat is Tet? Tet, also known as the Vietnam Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam, celebrated over 3 days but often for a whole week. The date of Tet changes every year because it follows the Vietnamese lunar calendar, so it usually falls in late January or early February according to the Gregorian calendar.Like the Christmas and New Year celebration period in the UK, Tet marks the arrival of spring and the lunar new year is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and celebrating with traditional customs and foods.Keep in mind upcoming Tet Dates to Vietnam travels:- Tet 2025 on January 29th (Year of the Snake)- Tet 2026 on February 17th (Year of the Horse)- Tet 2027 on February 6th (Year of the Goat)- Tet 2028 on January 26th (Year of the Monkey)2. Things To Do in Vietnam during the New Year HolidayNew year comes, and there are a variety of fun events and festivals specially held in Vietnam to experience. Let's delve into what each of them has to offer!2.1. Raise the Toast at New Year’s Eve PartyHave a meal with traditional food in Vietnam New Year HolidayLet's come together with the locals to raise a toast at a vibrant New Year's Eve party, celebrating the successes of the past year and offering our best wishes for the year ahead. Only in Vietnam, throughout the night, people gather to enjoy festivities and revel in the joyful atmosphere, shouting the signature drinking cheer "1, 2, 3, dzo!!" undoubtedly creating a strong sense of drinking enjoyment.For tourists, you can embrace the spirit of New Year's Eve in Vietnam, it's a time to join grand celebrations. Numerous 5-star hotels and resorts host Gala Dinners, providing a delightful opportunity for guests to create cherished memories. These events are marked by lavish buffets and captivating live music performances, promising an unforgettable start to the new year.2.2. Sway with Melodies at the Countdown Music FestivalsCountdown concerts in HanoiCountdown concerts are a highlight, featuring live music, dancing, and fireworks. Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue host FREE festivals in public spare areas such as open parks and walking streets, inviting everyone to celebrate together. Don’t miss the chance to burn out with music of top famous artists!2.3. Witness the Professional Fireworks or Drone PerformanceDuring New Year's celebrations in Vietnam, the military often organizes spectacular fireworks and drone performances to ensure safety and a stunning display. Cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Da Nang feature spectacular fireworks on New Year's Eve, and the sky lights up with vibrant colors and patterns at exactly 00:00, creating a magical spectacle. Some of the best spots to watch the fireworks include rooftop bars, city centers, waterfront areas, and designated viewing areas. It's important to arrive early to secure a good spot for the show.Hanoi fireworks and drones performance on New Year's Eve2.4. Give the Lucky Money in Lunar New YearDuring Tet, people visit each other's homes to “Chuc Tet” (wish the best for the New Year), then enjoy confectionary and drinks together. Even strangers exchange warm wishes, making it a heartwarming experience for tourists. Moreover, giving "Li Xi" (or Lucky Money) in red envelopes to children and elders is a cherished traditional Vietnam culture. As a tourist, you can participate in these activities, but be sure to familiarize yourself with local customs to avoid cultural misunderstandings.2.5. Go Sightseeing at Temples and PagodasVisiting pagodas and temples is a common practice during Tet, as people pray for luck and peace in the new year. Pagodas are beautifully decorated with flowers, offering a serene escape and cultural insight. Visitors can come to recommended pagodas including Bai Dinh in Ninh Binh, Yen Tu in Quang Ninh, and Perfume Pagoda in Hanoi for sightseeing. Also, there are many traditional festivals held at temples and pagodas during this period that provide a deep dive into Vietnamese culture.2.6. Savor Traditional Vietnamese CuisineBanh Chung cooking classTet is a time to enjoy a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes that are specially prepared for the New Year. Tourists can join hands to make the traditional dishes with local people.Some must-try dishes include Banh Chung (square sticky rice cake), Nem Ran (fried spring roll), Gio Lua (Vietnamese pork sausage), and Xoi (sticky rice). These Vietnamese traditional foods are not only delicious but also carry cultural significance and are often shared among family and friends.3. Best New Year Destinations in Vietnam3.1. HanoiHang Ma Street in Tet HolidayThe capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is a main destination to experience the vibrant celebrations of the Vietnamese New Year. As Tet approaches before 1 week, the city buzzes with many things to do & see and joy. The Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake) area will become particularly vibrant and lively, hosting exciting countdown events as well as fireworks displays. Moreover, the Hanoi Old Quarter is transformed with festive adornments and bustling local markets offering an array of traditional Tet goods. If you're in search of traditional decorative items like lanterns, red envelopes, god of wealth figurines, red parallel sentences, or firecrackers, make your way to Hang Ma Street. For candies, jams, melon seeds, and other traditional delicacies, a visit to Hang Buom Street is a must. Lastly, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of fresh flowers at the Quang Ba Flower Market.3.2. Ninh BinhNinh Binh vibrant festival atmosphereTraveling to Ninh Binh during Tet Holiday is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the ancient tranquility, experience the charm of the mountains and rivers, and discover the remnants of a once magnificent dynasty in Vietnamese history. Spring is the best time to visit Ninh Binh with beautiful flowers and lush greenery, thus taking a boat trip to Trang An or Tam Coc to go sightseeing. All the tourist spots and fun places in Ninh Binh have longer hours to welcome a lot of visitors. You can enjoy all kinds of cool events like music shows, art exhibitions, and cultural activities at Hoa Lu Ancient Town. Then, you can visit the Thung Nham eco-tourism area for an art program with traditional art, singing, dancing, puppetry,... They also have activities for welcoming the new year of Thai and Muong ethnicity.3.3. Hoi AnTourists wear Ao Dai to enjoy Tet in Hoi AnIn the New Year Holiday, Hoi An experiences favorable weather with slight sunshine and cool breeze, making it very suitable for outdoor activities. The city hosts a spring flower festival on roads in the inner city area. On New Year’s Eve (the night of the 30th Tet), there are music performances, lucky charms for spring, and art shows to welcome the new year. During Tet in the Hoi An ancient town, there are many cultural activities are held including street music exchanges, creative corners and art installation spaces, and art performances. Additionally, other annual activities such as tree-planting Tet festivals, Tra Que Cotton Bridge Worshiping Ceremony, Kim Bong Carpentry Patriarch's death anniversary, Lunar New Year Festival, and Cam Nam Sticky Rice Festival will be maintained.3.4. Da NangDa Nang is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it a sought-after destination for New Year celebrations. The city hosts energetic countdown parties and stunning fireworks displays along the Han River.During the New Year festivities, tourists can participate in the Dragon Bridge program including rotation of the bridge, fire & water shows at night in Han River, flower and lighting decorations for Tet, a check-in background at the Dragon Bridge area, and New Year's Eve fireworks. Additionally, visitors can explore many other top things to do in Da Nang such as climbing the Marble Mountains, visiting the Linh Ung Pagoda, or unwinding on My Khe Beach during their Vietnam visit during the New Year Holiday.3.5. Ho Chi Minh CityNguyen Hue Flower Street in Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, offers energetic and diverse New Year festivities. Rooftop bars and restaurants provide stunning views of the city's fireworks. The bustling Nguyen Hue Walking Street has become a hub of activities, including concerts, light shows, flower festivals, and street performances. Don't miss the chance to visit iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Ben Thanh Market.You can like our designed tour Best of Vietnam for New Year, not only exploring Ho Chi Minh City but also other top tourist attractions such as Hoi An, Halong Bay, Mekong Delta,...4. Travel costs and crowd in New Year Holiday in VietnamTourist crowd in New Year Holiday in Hoi AnDuring Tet, major cities might feel less crowded as locals travel home to celebrate with their families. However, after the first few days of Tet, popular destinations and pagodas can become crowded, leading to traffic jams and higher prices for flights, services, food, transportation, and accommodations can rise up to about 15-20%. Be prepared for surcharges and some closed shops during this period.5. Tips to travel to Vietnam during New Year 2025New Year Holiday is the most important holiday in Vietnam, attracting tourists with its bustling, vibrant atmosphere and unique cultural features. However, traveling during Tet also has its own notes to ensure you have a complete and memorable trip. Keep in mind these tips during the New Year Holiday in Vietnam!- Plan your Vietnam tour packages for at least 2-3 months before the Tet Holiday to secure the best options and avoid inflated prices. - Learn about the customs and traditions associated with the holiday, such as exchanging New Year greetings, visiting ancestral homes, and attending local festivals. - Anticipate higher prices for services and goods during Tet. Budget accordingly to accommodate increased expenses.- Many Vietnamese people don't bargain during Tet, as it is considered bad luck. If you do bargain, be polite and respectful.- The weather can be unpredictable during Tet. It can be hot and sunny in southern Vietnam while cool and rainy in northern Vietnam. Be sure to pack for all types of each region’s Vietnam weather.Da Nang in New Year HolidayVietnam has 2 kinds of New Year Holidays, however, the Lunar New Year offers a unique blend of lively festivities and rich cultural experiences. Whether you join in the energetic countdown parties or explore serene pagodas, you'll find plenty to do and see in Vietnam. Let Incredible Asia Journeys be your guide to help you embrace the warm hospitality and festive spirit of your New Year holiday. Contact us to plan your Vietnam New Year trip as soon as possible!
Vietnam has an amazing variety of food that differs by region and occasion. In particular, the traditional food eaten during Vietnamese New Year is especially important and delicious for tourists who visit Vietnam in New Year Holiday. In this blog, Incredible Asia Journeys will tell you about TOP must-try traditional Vietnamese New Year Food.[incredible_toc]Follow us as we explore the diverse range of Vietnamese cuisine from the North to the South during the Lunar New Year!1. Understanding Tet and Vietnamese Lunar New Year Food1.1. What is Tet?Traditional Tet (Lunar New Year) in VietnamTet (Lunar New Year) is the greatest and most important occasion in Vietnam, marking the arrival of spring based on the lunar calendar. Celebrated in late January or early February, Tet signifies a fresh start and new beginnings, it’s a time for Vietnamese family reunions, paying respects to ancestors, and enjoying special festive foods. Therefore, even though family circumstances are difficult, people still try to prepare a full Tet feast. So, tourists coming to Vietnam to savor the traditional food is the best thing to do in Vietnam!1.2. Weather & Regional Influences on Vietnamese Lunar New Year FoodThe differences in weather across Vietnam during the Lunar New Year lead to diverse Vietnamese New Year food that reflects the local climate and agricultural practices. In the north, the weather is cold and dry influencing the preference for hearty and warming dishes during the chilly days. Meanwhile, in central Vietnam, the weather can be milder but still wet, leading to foods that balance flavors and preserve ingredients. Central Vietnam Tet food is often packed with intense flavors to complement the humid climate. In the south, the weather is typically warm and dry, encouraging the use of fresh, tropical ingredients in dishes. The abundance of fresh produce and milder climate result in lighter, sweeter dishes that are perfect for the festive season. Thus, the distinct weather patterns, lifestyles, and available resources in each region shape the unique Tet food traditions across Vietnam.Each region in Vietnam has its unique Tet lifestyles2. Best Vietnamese New Year FoodTypically, Vietnamese Lunar New Year food varies by region, with each having its unique Vietnamese Tet food. Get ready foodies, it’s time to sneak a peak at each region's dining table!1.1. Northern Vietnam New Year FoodBanh Chung (Square sticky rice cake)Banh Chung stands at the top of the list of Vietnamese food during Lunar New Year. This square-shaped rice cake is made from mung beans, seasoned pork, and sticky rice, all wrapped in dong leaves. Traditionally, the square shape of Banh Chung Vietnamese New Year food represents the Earth and holds deep meanings related to the universe. When eaten, you can feel the chewy sticky rice, the pork is savory and tender, and the mung bean paste is smooth and subtly sweet. Northern people also enjoy a fried version of Banh Chung, where slices of the cake are pan-fried with a little oil over moderate heat until the outer layer becomes crispy while the inside remains soft.Banh Chung is preparing to be boiledXoi Gac (Red sticky rice)Xoi Gac is known for its vibrant red color which symbolizes good luck and prosperity. This festive sticky rice dish is made from glutinous rice mixed with the flesh of Gac fruit (Cochinchin gourd), which imparts its striking hue. The process begins with soaking the rice and then combining it with the gac fruit, coconut milk, and a bit of sugar to enhance the sweetness.When you take a bite of Xoi Gac, you'll experience chewy and slightly sweet sticky rice, while the coconut milk adds a creamy richness. The subtle sweetness of the rice is perfectly balanced by the aromatic essence of the gac fruit, making each mouthful a unique and enjoyable experience. This dish is often enjoyed as a part of the Vietnamese New Year dishes and is also served during other festive occasions to bring good fortune throughout the year.The beautiful color of Xoi GacGio (Vietnamese sausage)Gio is another Vietnamese New Year food, often served alongside Xoi (sticky rice) and Banh Chung. This traditional sausage is crafted from lean meat mixed with fish sauce, wrapped in leaves, and boiled for several hours. Eating Gio Lua, you can feel a delicately flavored sausage with a smooth, firm texture that complements the other festive dishes perfectly. There are various types of Gio, classified by their main ingredient: Gio Lua (pork), Gio Ga (chicken), and Gio Bo (beef). These varieties are not only enjoyed during Tet but are also popular year-round in Vietnamese cuisine.Ga Luoc (Boiled chicken)Ga Luoc (Boiled chicken)Ga Luoc, or boiled chicken, is often used in offerings to ancestors and is a symbol of prosperity and unity. The preparation sounds simple yet precise, a whole chicken is boiled until the meat is tender and the skin is a beautiful golden hue without crack. The resulting flavor is subtly savory, with the chicken's natural juices enhanced by a touch of salt. It is typically served with a side of salt, pepper, and lime dipping sauce, which adds a zesty kick to each bite. Nem Ran (Fried spring roll)Nem Ran, also known as fried spring rolls, is one of the most popular traditional foods not only served in Northern Vietnam but also in other regions in Tet. These crispy rolls are filled with a mixture of minced pork, mushrooms, vermicelli noodles, and various vegetables, all seasoned to perfection. The rolls are wrapped in rice paper and then fried until golden brown and crispy. When you bite into a Nem Ran, you experience a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of savory and aromatic flavors from the filling. They are typically served with a bowl of dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili, which complements the rich and savory rolls perfectly. Thit Dong (Jellied pork)Thit Dong (Jellied Pork)Thit Dong is food for Vietnamese new year in northern Vietnam. This cold dish is made by simmering pork and pork skin with fish sauce, pepper, and garlic until the natural gelatin from the pork creates a jelly-like consistency. Once cooled, the mixture solidifies into a savory jelly that is sliced and served. The flavor of Thit Dong is savory and slightly garlicky, with a smooth and silky texture that melts in your mouth. It's often enjoyed with pickled vegetables and sticky rice, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory jelly. 1.2. Central Vietnam New Year FoodBanh Tet (Cylindrical sticky rice cake)Banh Tet is a traditional Vietnamese New Year food enjoyed especially in central and southern Vietnam. Similar to Banh Chung, Banh Tet is made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, but it is shaped into a cylindrical roll and wrapped in banana leaves before being boiled. The cooking process, which takes several hours, results in a flavorful and hearty cake that is sliced into rounds for serving. The banana leaves impart a unique aroma that enhances the overall taste, making Banh Tet a cherished dish during the Lunar New Year.Black Cylindrical Sticky Rice Cake - Banh TetBanh In (Print cake)Banh In, or print cake, is a sweet treat commonly enjoyed during Tet in central Vietnam. These small, decorative cakes are made from rice flour and sugar and are often imprinted with intricate designs. They come in various flavors, including mung bean and coconut. Banh In has a dense and slightly chewy texture, with a delicate sweetness that pairs well with tea. The detailed prints on each cake not only make them visually appealing but also represent good luck and prosperity for the new year. Tourists can buy this cake as a souvenir to bring home in Vietnam in New Year Holiday tour.Nem Chua (Fermented pork roll)Nem Chua is a popular food in Central Vietnam, particularly as a specialty in Thanh Hoa. Made from minced pork, pork skin, garlic, and chili, Nem Chua is seasoned and then wrapped in banana leaves to ferment for several days. The fermentation process gives the pork a unique sour taste and a chewy texture. Each bite of Nem Chua is a burst of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, making it a delicious and refreshing snack. It is often enjoyed with fresh herbs and chili sauce, adding to the complexity of flavors.Tom Chua (Sour shrimp)Tom Chua is a specialty of central Vietnam originating from Hue. This dish is made by fermenting fresh shrimp with a mixture of rice, galangal, garlic, and chili. The fermentation process results in a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, with the shrimp retaining a firm and juicy texture. Tom Chua is typically served with fresh herbs and rice paper, allowing diners to create their own flavorful rolls. The combination of sour, spicy, and savory flavors makes Tom Chua a standout dish during the Lunar New Year festivities.Bo Kho Mat Mia (Braised beef with molasses)Bo Kho Mat Mia (Braised Beef With Molasses)Bo Kho Mat Mia is a rich and flavorful dish from Nghe An, central Vietnam. This dish features beef braised with molasses, fish sauce, and various aromatic spices until the meat is tender and infused with a deep, sweet-savory flavor. The molasses add a caramelized sweetness that balances the robust taste of the beef, while the spices contribute to a complex and aromatic profile. The slow-cooking process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and indulgent. Bo Kho Mat Mia is often served with rice or noodles, making it a comforting and satisfying meal during the festive season.1.3. Southern Vietnam New Year FoodThit Kho Hot Vit (Caramelized pork and eggs)Thit Kho Hot Vit is a beloved dish during Tet in southern Vietnam, featuring succulent pieces of pork belly braised with duck eggs in a rich, caramelized sauce made from coconut water, fish sauce, and sugar. The slow-cooking process allows the pork to become incredibly tender, while the duck eggs absorb the savory-sweet flavors of the sauce. It is supposed that the round eggs and square pieces of meat are symbols of balanced yin and yang. Thit Kho Hot Vit is typically served with rice, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that symbolizes prosperity and warmth in Tet. Don’t miss the chance to try this food during your Best of Vietnam for New Year!Canh Kho Qua (Stuffed bitter melon soup)Canh Kho Qua, or stuffed bitter melon soup, is a traditional dish in southern Vietnam that is often enjoyed during Tet. The dish features bitter melon stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, mushrooms, and glass noodles, all seasoned with fish sauce and pepper. The bitterness of the melon is believed to symbolize the hardships of the past year, which are washed away with each bite. The soup is both refreshing and nourishing, with a unique combination of bitter and savory flavors that are said to bring good health and fortune.Canh Mang (Bamboo shoot soup)Canh Mang (Bamboo Shoot Soup)Canh Mang is made from dried bamboo shoots, pork ribs, and various aromatic herbs. The dried bamboo shoots are rehydrated and simmered with the pork ribs to create a rich and savory broth. The bamboo shoots add a distinct earthy flavor and a slightly crunchy texture to the soup. Canh Mang is often enjoyed as part of the Tet feast, symbolizing growth and resilience. Its hearty and warming qualities make it a perfect dish to share with family and friends during the festive season.Lap Xuong (Chinese sausage)Lap Xuong, or Chinese sausage, is a popular ingredient in southern Vietnamese cuisine, especially during Tet. These sweet and savory sausages are made from ground pork and fat, seasoned with sugar, soy sauce, and rice wine, then air-dried or smoked. This flavorful and slightly chewy sausage is often sliced and stir-fried with vegetables or used as a topping for sticky rice. The sweet and smoky flavor of Lap Xuong adds a delightful contrast to the savory dishes typically served during Tet.3. Table manners in Lunar New Year VietnamTry to savor a Tet meal in VietnamTet is a time of deep tradition and cultural significance in Vietnam, and the meals shared during this period are much more formal and elaborate than everyday meals. Here are some essential table manners to keep in mind if you dine with locals or wish to experience an authentic Tet meal:- Do not start eating until the incense on the ancestor’s altar has finished burning.- Always invite the elders to eat first as a sign of respect.- Do not clatter your chopsticks or bowl, as it is considered rude.- Finish all the rice you have taken, it is considered wasteful and disrespectful to leave rice in your bowl.- Wait for the host to indicate where you should sit if you are a guest. The seating arrangement may be based on age or status.New Year in Vietnam is an incredible opportunity to explore the unique and mouthwatering cuisine that is exclusive to this festive holiday. You don't want to miss out on the chance to savor all these amazing dishes and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of traditional Vietnamese food during the New Year celebration.If you're planning a trip to Vietnam during the New Year holiday and need help with booking tours, look no further! Incredible Asia Journeys is here to make your adventure unforgettable.
Our team of experienced tour specialists have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!
