Hai Phong stands as a vibrant coastal destination, rooted in history and enriched by centuries of maritime tradition. Known as the “City of the Red Flamboyant Flowers”, it welcomes visitors with broad boulevards, colonial heritage, and a dynamic local culture shaped by its connection to the sea.
Beyond the city, travelers can explore Cat Ba Island with its lush landscapes and limestone cliffs, or sail into the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay. The beaches of Do Son, the flavors of fresh seafood, and the rhythms of daily life offer authentic encounters with Vietnam’s coastal charm.
With a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and seaside vitality, Hai Phong invites you to experience Northern Vietnam from a new perspective—close to the sea, close to tradition, and open to discovery.
Hai Phong is well connected by air, road, rail, and sea, offering travelers multiple options for arrival.
- By air: Cat Bi International Airport is the city’s primary air hub, with daily domestic flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and other major cities. Some regional international flights also operate, providing direct access from select destinations.
- By road: Hai Phong is located approximately 120 kilometers from Hanoi. The Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway allows for smooth travel by car, bus, or limousine service, with a typical journey time of around two hours.
- By rail: Hai Phong is linked to Hanoi and nearby provinces by railway. Trains depart several times daily, providing a comfortable and scenic travel option for visitors.
- By sea: Regular ferries and speedboats connect Hai Phong to Cat Ba Island and other destinations in the Gulf of Tonkin. The city’s port system remains an important transport link for travelers heading to coastal and island areas.
Hai Phong offers a coastal rhythm of life that shifts beautifully with the seasons. Each time of year reveals a different side of the city, from festive traditions to island adventures.
- Spring (Feb–Apr): Mild and refreshing (18–25°C), spring is a season of renewal. Tet (Lunar New Year) brings vibrant markets and cultural festivities, while coastal breezes invite relaxed strolls through colonial streets and riverside parks.
- Summer (May–Aug): Energetic and warm (28–35°C), summer is the best time for island escapes and beach days. Explore Cat Ba Island, cruise Lan Ha Bay, and swim at Do Son Beach. In May and June, the city turns crimson with the Red Flamboyant Flower Festival, celebrating Hai Phong’s signature blooms.
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Cooler days (22–30°C) and calm seas make autumn perfect for outdoor activities. Do Son’s Buffalo Fighting Festival, held in September (the 9th day of the 8th lunar month), draws visitors to witness one of Vietnam’s most unique cultural events.
- Winter (Dec–Jan): Cool and quiet (12–20°C), winter is a time for slow discovery. Enjoy seafood specialties, visit historical sites, and experience the local atmosphere as the city prepares for Tet once again.
Hai Phong is actively working to create a welcoming and accessible environment for all travelers.
Many of the city’s key attractions—such as Do Son Beach, Lan Ha Bay cruises, and Cat Ba Island resorts—are increasingly equipped with wheelchair-friendly pathways, accessible restrooms, and assisted boarding services for boats and ferries. Several hotels and cruise operators offer rooms and cabins designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs.
In the city center, wide boulevards and open public spaces make sightseeing more convenient. Popular sites like museums, parks, and cultural centers are gradually expanding their inclusive facilities, including ramps and guided support upon request. Transportation options are also adapting. Some limousine services and private transfers offer door-to-door assistance, while larger transport hubs such as Cat Bi International Airport and Hai Phong Railway Station provide priority services for travelers with disabilities.
Local hospitality teams are generally attentive and willing to assist, ensuring that visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the cultural and natural beauty of Hai Phong.