7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Haiphong

Haiphong's third-largest city, is not only a bustling port town but also a gateway to a myriad of fascinating weekend getaways. Digital nomads living in Haiphong can easily escape the urban grind and explore the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty of Northern Vietnam. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's a perfect retreat for every taste.

Ha Long Bay

Just a stone's throw from Haiphong, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Vietnam's most iconic destinations. With its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests, it's a paradise for kayaking, cruising, and cave exploration. A weekend here offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure amidst breathtaking scenery.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Ha Long Bay from Haiphong is by bus or car, which takes about 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to take a sunset cruise; the views of the karst landscapes against the twilight sky are unforgettable.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long with its stunning views and luxurious amenities, or the cozy Catba Island Resort & Spa.

Where to Eat: Cua Vang Restaurant offers delicious seafood with a view of the bay. Try their famous grilled squid!

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

For a mix of history and nature, the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site near Ninh Binh is often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land" and features a series of interconnected waterways, caves, and temples. Take a serene boat ride through the caves, visit ancient pagodas, and enjoy the stunning limestone karst topography.

How to Get There: The journey from Haiphong to Trang An takes about 3 hours by bus or train.

Travel Tip: Make sure to explore the Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of temples set into a mountain offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Where to Stay: The Tam Coc Garden Resort is a peaceful retreat nestled among the limestone peaks, offering traditional Vietnamese bungalows.

Where to Eat: The local specialty is mountain goat meat, best enjoyed at local eateries like Anh Dzung Hotel & Restaurant in Ninh Binh.

Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Ha Long Bay, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its rugged national park, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches, Cat Ba offers a variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and snorkeling. The island's laid-back vibe is perfect for digital nomads looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

How to Get There: A combination of ferry and bus services will get you from Haiphong to Cat Ba Island in about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Hike to the top of Cannon Fort for a panoramic view of the island and surrounding bay, especially stunning at sunset.

Where to Stay: Cat Ba Sandy Beach Resort offers unique accommodation on a private island, accessible only by boat.

Where to Eat: Phuong Phuong Restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists for its fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Ba Be National Park

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, Ba Be National Park is a hidden gem. Home to the serene Ba Be Lake, the park is a biodiversity hotspot with lush forests, waterfalls, and caves. It's an ideal spot for trekking, kayaking, and homestays with local ethnic communities, offering a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.

How to Get There: The journey from Haiphong to Ba Be National Park takes approximately 5-6 hours by bus or motorbike.

Travel Tip: Take a boat trip on Ba Be Lake and visit the Puong Cave, where you can see stalactites and stalagmites as well as a colony of bats.

Where to Stay: Mr. Linh's Homestay provides a warm and authentic experience, with the opportunity to enjoy home-cooked meals.

Where to Eat: Food options are limited within the park, but homestays offer delicious local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the area.

Lang Son

Lang Son is a border town that offers a blend of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures. Known for its historical sites, including the Tam Thanh and Nhi Thanh caves, and the Mac Dynasty Citadel, Lang Son is a great place for history buffs. The local markets are also a highlight, where you can find a variety of goods from both countries.

How to Get There: A bus ride from Haiphong to Lang Son takes about 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Dong Kinh Market for some bargain shopping and to experience the bustling local trade.

Where to Stay: Muong Thanh Lang Son Hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is conveniently located for exploring the town.

Where to Eat: Try the local specialty, Banh Cuon Lang Son, a type of steamed rice roll, at any of the street food stalls in the town center.

Co To Island

Co To Island is an idyllic retreat away from the crowds, with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's a perfect spot for digital nomads seeking tranquility and inspiration. The island's lighthouse offers stunning views, and the untouched nature makes for excellent hiking and exploring.

How to Get There: Reach Co To Island by taking a bus from Haiphong to Cai Rong port, followed by a ferry to the island, which can take around 4-5 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Rent a motorbike to explore the island's secluded beaches and scenic spots at your own pace.

Where to Stay: Co To Eco Lodge is an eco-friendly option with charming bungalows right on the beach.

Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at Bien Xanh Restaurant, which offers a variety of local dishes with a view of the sea.

Ban Gioc Waterfall

Located on the border between Vietnam and China, Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the region. It's the largest waterfall in Vietnam and offers a majestic sight as it cascades down multiple levels. The surrounding landscape is equally impressive, with lush rice fields and karst peaks.

How to Get There: The trip from Haiphong to Ban Gioc Waterfall can take up to 7-8 hours by bus or car, making it a longer weekend trip but well worth the journey.

Travel Tip: Visit the nearby Nguom Ngao Cave, an incredible limestone cave with spectacular formations.

Where to Stay: Saigon-Ban Gioc Resort provides comfortable accommodations with views of the waterfall and countryside.

Where to Eat: Local restaurants near the waterfall serve up traditional dishes like grilled fish and bamboo-tube rice.

Whether you're looking for a quick escape or an immersive cultural experience, these weekend getaways from Haiphong offer something for every digital nomad. With a mix of popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations, you can find the perfect balance between work and exploration in the stunning landscapes of Northern Vietnam.