Hai Phong City Historical and Food Tour

Travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and mouthwatering food will find this Hai Phong City Historical and Food Tour an excellent choice. With perfect ratings from previous travelers and a comprehensive itinerary, it offers a well-balanced day that balances sightseeing with culinary delights.

What we love about this experience is its all-inclusive nature—a smooth round-trip by train, guided visits to iconic landmarks, and numerous opportunities to taste authentic local dishes. We also appreciate how the tour promises personalized insights from knowledgeable guides, making each stop more meaningful.

One potential consideration is the long duration—about 13 hours in total—which might feel tiring for some. But for those eager to explore beyond Hanoi and indulge in its coastal neighbor’s flavors and sights, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy history, street food, and immersive local experiences.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Meals, entrance fees, and guided tours are covered, offering great value.
• Authentic Food Sampling: From crab noodle soup to Vietnamese desserts, you’ll taste the true flavors of Hai Phong.
• Historical and Cultural Insights: Visits to Du Hang Pagoda, landmarks, and markets deepen your understanding of the city.
• Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip train travel ensures smooth, hassle-free logistics.
• Personalized Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides share stories and details that bring each stop to life.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Perfect for those wanting a full day of exploration with a mix of food and culture.

Unpacking the Experience: A Day in Hai Phong

This tour kicks off early, departing from Hanoi’s Opera House, with the first highlight being the train journey to Hai Phong. You’ll appreciate the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you away to Long Bien station. The two-hour train ride isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the adventure, offering a glimpse into everyday Vietnamese life aboard a train that’s a bit different from the usual tourist fare. Reviewers mention the train experience as a memorable part of the trip, adding an authentic touch that sets this tour apart.

First stop: Long Bien Station and Lunch

Once in Hai Phong, the tour immediately transitions into tasting one of the city’s specialties—crab soup at 195 Cau Dat. This hearty dish is a local favorite, and the tour guides often explain the ingredients and cooking process, giving you a real insight into Hai Phong’s food culture. Reviewers praise the food for its freshness and flavor, with many noting it as a highlight.

Cultural Gem: Du Hang Pagoda

Next, your guide will lead you to Du Hang Pagoda, one of the oldest religious sites in the city. Here, you’ll learn about its cultural significance and history. This stop is not just about sightseeing but about understanding the spiritual side of Hai Phong. Visitors frequently mention how the guides’ stories made the history come alive, making the experience more than just walking through an old building.

Quick Snack and Scenic Walks

Afterward, a quick stop at Banh My Que, where you’ll snack on famous breadsticks that are a staple in the city’s street food scene. Then, a walk around Tam Bac Lake offers a peaceful break, with the added bonus of sampling Vietnamese fermented pork rolls, which showcase local flavors in a simple, delicious form.

Key Landmarks and Streets

The second part of the day involves exploring the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Hai Phong Opera House, the statue of Female General Le Chan, and the historic Train Station. Walking these streets, you’ll get a sense of Hai Phong’s blend of colonial architecture and modern vitality. The reviews highlight how these sites, combined with the guides’ stories, offer a richer understanding of the city’s identity.

Market and Street Food Exploration

Perhaps the most lively part of the tour is visiting Sat or Cat Bi Market. Here, you’ll encounter a sensory overload of sights, smells, and sounds. Vendors sell everything from fresh seafood to local snacks. Tourists rave about trying Bánh a Cua (crab noodle soup), Bún Cá Cay (spicy seafood noodle soup), and Da Dăm (a Vietnamese dessert). Reviewers mention how engaging it is to see and taste the real street food scene, with some noting the guide’s explanations about ingredients and preparation.

Return by Train and Reflection

The day concludes with a visit to Hai Phong Railway Station, a lovely example of French colonial architecture. After boarding the train back to Hanoi, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on your newfound knowledge of this vibrant port city. The train experience is often praised as a fun and authentic way to connect with Vietnam’s railway history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Local Food

From the crab noodles to the Vietnamese desserts, the tour’s focus on food is a major draw. Several reviewers mention that they learned about ingredients and cooking methods from local chefs, adding an educational touch. For some, sampling 5-6 dishes in one day was a culinary highlight.

Insightful Guides and Personal Touch

Participants frequently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer noted that the guide, Bryan, went out of his way to make the experience memorable, sharing stories beyond the standard script. Such personalized attention enhances the culture.

Comfortable, Hassle-Free Logistics

The round-trip train journey, combined with all entrance fees and meals included in the $69 price, makes this a convenient choice. You won’t need to worry about transportation or planning—just enjoy the day.

Value for Money

Considering the full day’s itinerary, food, entrance fees, and guided tours, the price is quite reasonable. Travelers often comment on how the experience exceeds expectations for the cost.

Stunning Sights and Peaceful Atmosphere

Beyond food, Hai Phong offers a calm, inviting vibe that many reviewers found refreshing compared to Hanoi’s hustle. Visiting landmarks and markets in a relaxed setting allows for better appreciation of local life.

Potential Drawbacks and Things to Consider

While the tour is comprehensive, the long duration (13 hours) may be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to such full days. Also, weather can impact the experience, as the tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions might lead to cancellations or modifications. The full-day nature means you’ll need to be prepared for a busy schedule, but it’s perfect for those eager to make the most of their day trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous food lovers eager to taste traditional dishes and learn about local culinary techniques. It’s also ideal for history buffs and culture seekers who appreciate guided storytelling and sightseeing. If you have a day to spare from Hanoi and want to explore a lesser-known Vietnamese city with charm and authenticity, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip train tickets from Hanoi to Hai Phong are included, along with air-conditioned vehicle transfers during the day.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Hanoi in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are covered, including lunch featuring crab soup and various snacks along the way.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those interested in food, history, and cultural sites.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will take part, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What attractions are included?
Stops include Du Hang Pagoda, Tam Bac Lake, the Opera House, Le Chan Statue, Train Station, and vibrant markets.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking and some standing, the vehicle transfers and guided stops should be manageable for most, but it’s best to check with the provider if mobility is a concern.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended, along with sun protection in hot weather.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not receive a refund.

The Hai Phong City Historical and Food Tour offers a well-rounded look at Vietnam’s third-largest city through its streets, markets, historic sites, and, most notably, its food. For travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural stories and culinary adventures, this tour hits the right notes while providing excellent value for money.

The knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences make it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to truly taste and understand Hai Phong’s vibrant spirit. While the long day might not suit everyone, those ready for an immersive journey will find it rewarding and fun. This tour is perfect if you want to see a different side of Vietnam beyond Hanoi, with plenty of delicious bites to remember long after the day is over.