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Instead of crowding airports or paying exorbitant train and bus fares, exploring resorts right next to the capital offers a more relaxing and nature-friendly experience than ever before.
Quan Lan (Quang Ninh) - A rough gem in the heart of the island's natural wonder.
If you're longing for a truly authentic seaside experience but are wary of the hustle and bustle of Ha Long Bay or the high cost of flights to central Vietnam, Quan Lan Island is the perfect solution. Located within the Bai Tu Long Bay complex, Quan Lan retains its pristine, unspoiled beauty that few other places can match.
Although the journey takes about 4-5 hours by road and speedboat, as soon as visitors set foot on the island, they will be captivated by Minh Chau beach with its fine white sand, nicknamed "white as snow, clean as a mirror." The seawater here is crystal clear, with gentle waves, making it extremely safe for children and the elderly.
The pristine, unspoiled beauty of Minh Chau beach (Quan Lan).
A holiday in Quan Lan is not just about swimming in the sea, but also a journey to discover long-standing cultural values. Tourists can leisurely cycle along the small roads that crisscross the island, visit the ancient Quan Lan temple with its exquisite carvings from the 18th century, or explore the centuries-old mangrove forest that acts as a sandbar along the coastline.
In particular, the island's cuisine is a highlight not to be missed, featuring fresh seafood such as sea worms, sea cucumbers, and squid, caught and prepared by local fishermen on the same day. The peace, tranquility, and slow pace of life here will help you completely disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Despite its modest size of about 11 square kilometers, the island boasts many long stretches of white sand beaches and clear blue waters.
Tam Dao (Vinh Phuc) - A symphony of mist in the "Da Lat of the North"
Located just about 80km from Hanoi, Tam Dao has long been an ideal summer getaway for Hanoi residents. Situated at an altitude of over 900m above sea level, this small town boasts a unique climate with four seasons in a single day, always shrouded in a mystical mist.
In recent years, Tam Dao has transformed its appearance with a series of uniquely designed homestays and cafes offering stunning valley views, turning it into a top check-in spot for young people and young families.
The entire town of Tam Dao is shrouded in early morning mist, a place known as the "green lung" right next to the capital city, with a cool climate year-round.
The most captivating aspect of Tam Dao is the blend of the ancient charm of French architecture and the majestic grandeur of the vast mountain forests. You can start your morning by sipping a cup of coffee at Cafe Gio, admiring the panoramic view of the Northern Delta from above, then challenge yourself by climbing the stone steps leading up to the television tower or the ancient stone church.
Don't forget to enjoy the local specialties: fresh chayote shoots, clay-baked free-range chicken, or fragrant wild boar meat in the characteristic cool evening air of the highlands. Tam Dao is more than just a trip; it's an inspiring lifestyle getaway right next to Hanoi.
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (Ninh Binh) - A journey through the heart of a world heritage site.
Among the list of destinations near Hanoi, Ninh Binh consistently holds a top position thanks to its convenient transportation and world-class beauty. The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is where you can find absolute tranquility while cruising along on small boats.
The system of limestone mountains, millions of years old, casts its reflection onto the emerald green Ngo Dong River, creating a vibrant ink painting that leaves any visitor in awe of nature's wonder.
The experience of cruising through mystical caves like the Bright Cave, Dark Cave, or Wine Brewing Cave gives you the feeling of being lost in another world, serene and full of mystery.
Besides its natural beauty, Trang An is also associated with the historical values of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where tourists can visit ancient temples and pagodas hidden amidst the rocky mountains. With professional investment in tourism services, Ninh Binh offers everything from luxurious 5-star resorts to rustic homestays by the rice fields, ready to cater to all customer segments.
Mai Chau (Hoa Binh) - A peaceful valley and the vibrant culture of the highlands.
If you're looking for a culturally rich experience but are hesitant about the long journey to Sa Pa or Ha Giang, Mai Chau is a smart alternative. The Mai Chau valley emerges after the hairpin bends of Thung Khe Pass, with its lush green terraced rice fields and the closely packed stilt houses of the White Thai people.
This is an ideal destination for the rising trends of sustainable tourism and community-based tourism, where people and nature blend together in the most authentic way.
A peaceful, unspoiled landscape that attracts many tourists.
In Lac or Poom Coong villages, tourists can experience sleeping in stilt houses, participating in traditional dances with locals around a crackling fire, and enjoying sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes, rice wine, and grilled stream fish.
Cycling around the valley in the early morning, breathing in the scent of young rice plants and watching the morning mist clinging to the mountain peaks is the most effective remedy for the soul. Mai Chau doesn't have the glitz and glamour of modern entertainment areas, but its simplicity, hospitality, and picturesque scenery create an irresistible attraction for anyone who loves experiential travel.
Moc Chau (Son La) - A lush green plateau and seasons of vibrant flowers.
Located at an average altitude of over 1,000m, Moc Chau is the largest and most beautiful plateau in Northern Vietnam, about a 4-hour drive from Hanoi. Its fresh, cool climate and the vast expanse of dairy farms make it a fantastic destination for picnics and camping, especially for groups of friends and families with young children.
When visiting Moc Chau, tourists shouldn't miss the experience of picking plums directly from the orchards in Na Ka plum valley, visiting the majestic Dai Yem waterfall, or checking in at the iconic heart-shaped tea hills. New-style resorts with container designs or luxurious glamping tents amidst the pine forests of Ban Ang are becoming a popular choice for many to fully enjoy the beauty of the mountains and forests.
