What to see, what to do North?
The 10 good reasons to go North
Unforgettable treks
Hiking in the mountains and unique encounters with the country's different ethnic groups.
A mosaic of identities
The northern mountains are home to a multitude of ethnic groups who have preserved their traditions.
A rich cultural heritage
The country's long and complex history has given rise to a culture that is unique in the world.
Hanoi
The country's small capital is a sometimes confusing but always enchanting city.
Halong Bay
A cruise to one of the world's most beautiful sites is an experience not to be missed.
Spectacular natural diversity
Terraced rice paddies, verdant mountains, karst peaks rising to the horizon...
A preserved craft
Discover traditional craft villages in the Red River delta.
Tasty cuisine
Vietnam's world-famous gastronomy is enough to justify a trip.
An unspoilt country
The north of the country is full of places that have preserved their traditions and authenticity.
A motorcycle trip
Discover the Hà Giang loop and set off on the trail of adventure in the land of 2-wheelers.
Good to know to visit North
Timetable
Opening times vary widely. Museums are generally open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., and some close at lunchtime. Many sites (pagodas, temples...) are not strictly speaking tourist attractions. They welcome visitors, but have a life of their own that must be respected.
To be booked
In Hanoi, it's best to reserve seats for certain shows and concerts. Hotel reception desks are happy to take care of this.
Budget & Tips
Entrance fees to sites and museums are generally very modest (the equivalent of less than €2). It's customary to leave a small donation when visiting pagodas.
Main events
Vietnam organizes a handful of festivals, which have acquired international renown. Traditional festivals, linked to the solar-lunar calendar, can be an opportunity to discover Vietnamese culture, but it's important to bear in mind that they are not intended for tourism, even if, as elsewhere in the world, folklorization and commercialization tend to make certain events lose their original meaning.
Guided tours
Incoming agencies offer a wide range of guided tours. On the face of it, this may seem an unattractive option for those with a taste for autonomy and independence, but in the context of a short stay, a guided tour allows you to be accompanied by a professional guide, often French-speaking, saves you time, eliminates logistical problems and saves you money (carpooling to certain remote sites). The most advanced agencies offer themed workshops (cooking classes, learning lacquerware, photography...) that allow you to discover the country from a particular angle.
Smokers
Smoking is not permitted in museums. The rules of tact and courtesy also apply.
Tourist traps
When visiting certain sites, the presence of an improvised guide is not uncommon. At the end of the tour, he (or she) will demand payment. To avoid any misunderstandings, it's best to make things clear from the outset, and to refuse clearly and unambiguously if you consider this presence to be unwelcome. It's worth bearing in mind that remuneration is often modest (the equivalent of €1 or €2) and that in some cases, the guide's advice and guidance can be very useful...
