Vietnam’s two largest cities are full of energy, history, and culture, yet the surrounding regions offer escapes that feel worlds apart from the urban rush. From serene natural landscapes to historic towns, day trips provide a chance to explore beyond the city streets.
Whether seeking mountains, beaches, or traditional villages, travelers can experience the country’s diversity without committing to overnight travel. These short trips let you taste local life, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and return to the city in the evening. Here are sixteen of the most memorable day trips from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Here is a list of 15 day trips that showcase the best of Vietnam’s surroundings while keeping travel convenient and enriching.
Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi
Halong Bay’s limestone cliffs rise dramatically from emerald waters, creating a postcard-perfect view just a few hours from Hanoi. Day cruises allow travelers to explore hidden caves, floating villages, and secluded beaches. Kayaking or a short swim in calm coves offers a closer connection to the natural beauty.
The area’s scenery is unique enough to feel like a miniature adventure far from city life. Returning to Hanoi by evening makes it a manageable and rewarding escape.
Ninh Binh And Tam Coc
Known as the “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh features karst mountains and winding rivers that can be explored by boat in Tam Coc. Riding through caves and past rice paddies offers a peaceful contrast to Hanoi’s bustling streets. The area is also home to historic temples and ancient capitals that provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich past.
Cycling around the countryside enhances the experience and keeps travelers active. It’s a scenic and culturally immersive day trip suitable for all ages.
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Perfumed Pagoda
The Perfumed Pagoda is a sprawling temple complex tucked into limestone mountains south of Hanoi. Visitors often combine a riverboat ride with a hike to reach the main pagoda, enjoying both spiritual sites and scenic landscapes. Pilgrims frequently visit, giving the area a lively yet serene atmosphere.
The surrounding valleys and forested paths make it an appealing destination for nature lovers. This trip blends spirituality, history, and adventure in a single day.
Mai Chau Valley
Mai Chau Valley is a peaceful retreat with stilt houses, green rice fields, and welcoming ethnic minority communities. Cycling or walking through the valley provides a glimpse into traditional village life. Local markets and handicraft stalls add cultural charm and opportunities to support local artisans.
The area’s natural beauty is ideal for photographers and hikers alike. It’s a refreshing escape from the fast pace of Hanoi.
Cao Bang and Ban Gioc waterfall
Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang is one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural attractions, located near the Chinese border. The cascading falls and surrounding limestone cliffs offer dramatic photo opportunities. Visitors can combine the waterfall with a visit to nearby caves or local villages.
The scenery is awe-inspiring, making the long drive from Hanoi worthwhile for a day trip or short overnight extension. It’s a showcase of the country’s less-explored northern beauty.
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Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City
The Cu Chi Tunnels provide an immersive glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history, located just outside Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors can crawl through sections of the tunnels, learn about daily life during the conflict, and see the ingenuity of underground living.
Guided tours offer context, making the experience educational as well as physically engaging. The site is well-organized and easily reachable for a half-day or full-day visit. It’s a powerful reminder of the region’s resilience and history.
Mekong Delta Exploration
The Mekong Delta is a lush network of rivers, canals, and floating markets that can be explored on a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. Travelers can take boat tours through waterways, sample local fruits, and visit small villages along the river. The bustling markets showcase daily life in a way that contrasts sharply with city streets.
Bicycle rides through the countryside add variety and active exploration. The delta’s combination of culture, nature, and culinary delights makes it an unforgettable destination.
Vung Tau Beach
Vung Tau offers sandy beaches and seaside charm within a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors can relax on the sand, enjoy fresh seafood, or climb hills for panoramic views of the coastline.
The area combines leisure and light adventure in one convenient trip. Scenic walking paths and historic lighthouses add points of interest beyond sunbathing. It’s an ideal choice for city dwellers craving sun and sea without a long journey.
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Tây Ninh and Cao Dai Temple
Tây Ninh is home to the colorful Cao Dai Temple, the center of a unique Vietnamese religion blending multiple spiritual traditions. The temple’s vibrant interior and daily ceremonies offer a visually striking cultural experience.
Surrounding areas include local markets and countryside views that complement the spiritual visit. It’s a day trip that balances architecture, history, and local life. The combination of spectacle and cultural insight makes it highly memorable.
Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island provides a gateway to the quieter side of Halong Bay, with limestone cliffs, sandy beaches, and dense forests. Day trips often involve boat rides, short hikes, and seafood lunches in local villages. The island’s scenery is dramatic and more relaxed than the main bay area, giving visitors a sense of adventure with fewer crowds.
It’s perfect for nature lovers seeking both activity and tranquility. The short journey from Hanoi makes it accessible for a full day of exploration.
Cao Lam Village near Hanoi
Cao Lam Village is a traditional settlement famous for pottery and handicrafts. Visitors can see artisans at work and participate in simple workshops, creating keepsakes from local clay. The village’s peaceful surroundings provide a relaxing break from the city’s bustle. Exploring markets and tasting regional foods adds cultural richness.
It’s a rewarding day trip for travelers interested in crafts, history, and authentic village life.
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Mekong Floating Markets at Can Tho
Can Tho’s floating markets in the Mekong Delta showcase the region’s vibrant river commerce. Boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and local products create a lively and colorful scene. Observing daily trade while sampling fresh produce gives travelers an immersive cultural experience.
Early morning visits are best for the busiest and most photogenic activity. This trip highlights the delta’s economic and social heartbeat while providing stunning visual moments.
Tam Dao National Park
Tam Dao National Park, near Hanoi, features mountainous terrain, cool air, and hiking trails surrounded by dense forest. The area is perfect for escaping summer heat, observing wildlife, and enjoying panoramic views of the region. Scenic walks lead to waterfalls, pagodas, and small villages tucked into the mountains.
The natural beauty is accessible without extensive travel, making it ideal for a day trip. Visitors often leave refreshed and connected to nature.
Ho Tram Beach
Ho Tram Beach is a peaceful seaside destination reachable from Ho Chi Minh City within a couple of hours. Resorts, seafood restaurants, and opportunities for water activities complement the quiet coastline. Walking along the beach or exploring nearby mangroves provides a mix of relaxation and adventure.
It’s a less crowded alternative to the more tourist-heavy beaches. The combination of convenience, scenery, and leisure makes it a top day trip choice.
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Ha Long Bay kayaking
Beyond standard boat tours, kayaking in Ha Long Bay allows travelers to navigate hidden coves, limestone cliffs, and floating villages at their own pace. The experience offers active engagement with the scenery and a sense of adventure. Paddling near small beaches and exploring caves adds variety to the trip.
It’s a physically rewarding way to see the bay while avoiding crowds. Kayaking provides both exercise and immersion in one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.
Expanding your horizons from the city
Day trips from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City show how diverse Vietnam can be beyond the urban centers. From mountains and beaches to historic sites and floating markets, these excursions provide cultural depth and natural beauty.
They offer a balance between convenience and discovery, allowing travelers to explore without long travel commitments. Each destination brings a unique flavor, highlighting the country’s rich landscapes and traditions. Taking the time to venture outward enhances the travel experience and leaves lasting impressions.
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