Affordable National Day getaways near Hanoi

Within a 150-km radius of Hanoi lies an array of tourist attractions perfect for brief escapes. For those seeking a break without dedicating the entire four-day National Day holiday to travel, options like trekking, camping, and relaxation await. These two-day, one-night trips cost approximately VND2 million ($83).

1. Trekking in Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park, part of Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong City, 150 km from Hanoi, is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve. Just about a 1.5-hour drive from Hanoi via the Hanoi-Hai Phong highway, visitors will then take a ferry at Got Pier to reach Cat Ba Island.

Embarking on a trek through Cat Ba National Park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature. Photo by VnExpress/Tam Anh

Over a span of two days, visitors can embark on a forest trek ranging from 6 to 10 km. The trails are diverse, taking you through flat forest paths and other moderately steep sections.

After the trek, visitors can spend the night at Viet Hai fishing village. On the second day, consider cycling to explore local village life, followed by a boat trip to Lan Ha Bay, where travelers can savor a seafood lunch before concluding the journey at Beo Wharf.

Estimated costs:

- Transportation: VND400,000-500,000 ($16-20) per person, including bus or self-driving expenses, along with fuel and ferry fees.

- Homestay at Viet Hai village: VND250,000 per person

- National park entrance fee, tour guide, and lunch during the trek: VND700,000 per person

- Lan Ha Bay exploration and dining: VND600,000 per person

2. Food tour of Hai Phong

Crab noodle soup is a specialty in Hai Phong, often served with fried dough and herbs. Photo by VnExpress/Duy Tung

Hai Phong, 120 km from Hanoi, has recently gained recognition as a culinary hotspot on Vietnam's tourism landscape. The city features markets and specialty streets where you can indulge in local delicacies such as crab noodle soup, spicy breadsticks, snail dishes, and more. Notable spots include the Cat Bi food market, the Luong Van Can - Le Loi area, and the Lach Tray food market.

During your stay in Hai Phong, take time to explore the city's landmarks like the Hai Phong Opera House, Hai Phong Station, and museums. A visit to Do Son beach, 20 km from the city center, to relish local seafood, is highly recommended.

Estimated costs:

- Transportation: VND500,000 ($20) per person (choose between bus or self-driving; train travel is more economical)

- One-night stay at a 3-star hotel in Hai Phong: VND300,000 to VND400,000 per person

- Food expenses for two days: VND1 million per person

3. Lakeside camping in Thai Nguyen

A camp site by Ghenh Che Lake in Thai Nguyen Province. Photo by Tron Glamping

Ghenh Che Lake in Song Cong City, Thai Nguyen Province, 80 km from Hanoi, offers a serene camping experience. Accessible by road or waterway, the lake features gentle terrain, hills, and plains. Those traveling by water can stay at Ghenh Che Farmstay. For the road route, head from Binh Son Commune People's Committee to Lat Da Hamlet in Binh Son Commune, about 4 km away.

The lakeside Tron Glamping campsite provides well-equipped tents for an enjoyable stay. Activities include boat tours, BBQs, fishing, and more.

Estimated costs:

- Tron Glamping tent rental (prices vary based on tent size): VND1-4 million ($41 to $165) per tent

- Meals: VND20,000-30,000 for breakfast, VND150,000-300,000 for dinner per person

4. Resort retreat in Tam Dao

The timeless beauty of the Stone Church in Tam Dao. Photo by VnExpress

Tam Dao, in Vinh Phuc Province, is a short one-hour and 15-minute drive from central Hanoi. This destination offers refreshing cool air, making it an option for a rejuvenating trip. While it can get crowded during holidays, staying in a well-equipped hotel or resort is a great way to unwind before returning to work.

Explore off-the-beaten-path spots during the evening or early morning, such as Quan Gio Coffee, the Stone Church, and the Ta Van Rattan Bridge. One should not overlook the opportunity to enjoy the flavors of barbecue meat and chayote buds.

Estimated costs:

- 4-star hotel: VND2 million to VND2.5 million ($82 to $103) per room for two people

- Meals: VND500,000 per person

- Travel expenses: VND300,000 to VND400,000 per person

5. Exploring Nho Quan District in Ninh Binh

Chau Son Monastery in Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province. Photo by Xuan Thu

Ninh Binh, just an hour's drive from Hanoi, offers a diverse range of experiences. Instead of the usual crowded spots, such as Trang An and Tam Coc - Bich Dong, head to Nho Quan District in the northwest for a unique visit. Choose to stay in homestays near Cuc Phuong National Park, explore the Chau Son Monastery, and indulge in local delicacies.

Estimated costs:

- Transportation: VND300,000 to VND400,000 ($12 to $16) to per person (bus or self-driving)

- One-night stay at a 3-star hotel: VND1.2 million to VND1.5 million for two people

- Food expenses: VND500,000 to VND600,000 per person