Hai Phong doesn’t deserve the lukewarm description it receives from a few of the guidebooks popular with the mass tourism market. Although it’s Vietnam’s largest port, it retains considerable charm and is worth a visit. Regardless of its size and heavy industry, like Hanoi, it has a compact and enticing central area that provides it a small city environment belying its standing as Vietnam’s third largest city. 

The city centre is a pleasing combination of parks, tree-lined boulevards and colonial buildings. Tam BAC Lake, the western section of a defunct canal constructed during the colonial interval, is lined with French-style road lamps that give the area a Parisian feel. 

There are several sights worth attention. The Municipal Theatre is a basic instance of French colonial structure - unfortunately, the contents are less appealing. The close by produce and flower markets make for an interesting stroll in the direction of Den Nghe, a small temple with some notable statues.

Further away, the Du Hang pagoda is situated in a horny street of artisan’s cottages - the wood-carving is impressive. Somewhat surprisingly, there appears to be a distinct Khmer affect upon its ornamentation.  

Though set in the midst of factories and ramshackle buildings, Dien Hold Kinh is a first-rate communal home going through a decorative lake, now used as a temple. Sadly, it's starting to feel its age, however the accumulating mud and grime doesn’t disguise a remarkable sweeping roof supported by large ironwood pillars, or the high-quality ornamentation and wooden-carvings within.  

Out of the city, the rural surroundings are unexpectedly agreeable. Our customers often take pleasure in a gentle cycle experience alongside the winding lanes and thru the small villages and previous temples. 

Do Son is a small seaside city near Hai Phong. The seashore is polluted and the city has a ‘fin de siècle’ really feel about it. Other than considered one of Vietnam’s few casinos (which Vietnamese citizens aren't allowed to enter as customers), it has little to offer. 

A good twin carriage approach connects to Hanoi - the 100km seldom takes more than an hour and a half - making Hai Phong a rewarding excursion. An alternative is a 3-hour prepare journey. 

Hai Phong can be a quick access level for Ha Long Bay through a hydrofoil service to Cat Ba Island. Quick boats and slower ferries join Hai Phong to Cat Ba and Ha Long City direct.