Hai Phong City Historical and Food Tour

Exploring Hai Phong: A Day of Culture and Cuisine

Imagine stepping off the busy streets of Hanoi onto a comfortable train ride to Hai Phong, Vietnam’s third-largest city, for a full-day adventure that’s as much about tasting as it is about seeing. This 13-hour tour costs $69 per person, includes train transportation, all meals, entrance fees, and guided insights, making it a surprisingly good value. Led by knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely passionate about sharing their city, you’ll visit bustling markets, historic temples, and striking landmarks, all while sampling some of the city’s most loved dishes.

What we particularly like about this tour are two things: first, the balance of food and history—it’s designed so you get an authentic taste of local life alongside immersive cultural visits. Second, the train journey itself offers a relaxed and scenic way to travel, turning transportation into part of the experience rather than just a commute.

A possible drawback? The tour’s long duration and packed itinerary could feel tiring if you prefer a more leisurely pace. It’s best suited for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground in one day and those who love genuine street food and historic sights. If you’re curious about Vietnam’s coastal port city and want a well-rounded, engaging introduction, this tour could be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Flavors: Sample local dishes like Banh Da Cua, Banh My Que, and crab noodle soup at markets and eateries.
• Cultural Insights: Visit historic sites like Du Hang Pagoda and learn about their cultural significance.
• Vibrant Markets: Engage with local vendors at Sat or Cat Bi Market, experiencing Vietnam’s lively food scene firsthand.
• Beautiful Landmarks: Admire iconic architecture including Hai Phong Opera House, Le Chan statue, and the French colonial train station.
• Comfortable Travel: Enjoy air-conditioned vehicle transfers, a scenic train ride, and guided commentary throughout.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: With all meals, entrance fees, and train tickets included, you get clear upfront value without hidden costs.

In-Depth Review of the Hai Phong Food and Heritage Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Complete View of the Day

Starting from Hanoi’s Opera House, your day begins with a pickup and a scenic two-hour train journey to Hai Phong. The train itself is a highlight—many reviews mention how unique and enjoyable this mode of travel is in Vietnam. One traveler shared, “The experience of taking the train in Vietnam, something that very few tours offer, was a big part of the adventure.” Traveling by train offers a relaxed way to see the countryside and get a feel for local life, making the journey part of the trip rather than just transportation.

Arriving in Hai Phong, the group heads to 195 Cau Dat for a hearty lunch featuring the city’s signature crab soup—a dish many reviews rave about. It’s the perfect way to introduce your palate to the local seafood flavors. The meal is inclusive, and guides often explain the ingredients and preparation, enriching your understanding of Hai Phong’s culinary traditions.

Next, the tour takes you to Du Hang Pagoda, one of the oldest temples in the city. Here, you’ll learn about its historical and cultural significance—an insight that adds depth to the sightseeing. Many visitors find this a peaceful, reflective stop amid the busy day. The entrance fee is included, and guides often share stories about the pagoda’s history, which most agree makes the visit more meaningful.

A quick snack at Banh My Que offers a taste of Hai Phong’s famous breadsticks, a simple yet delicious street food beloved by locals. It’s an authentic, quick bite—something that’s often highlighted in reviews as a “must-try” for food lovers.

A walk around Tam Bac Lake follows, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and try Vietnamese fermented pork rolls. The lake scenery provides a welcome break from the bustling markets and architecture. This stop is noted for its tranquil atmosphere and tasty local snack, providing that perfect balance of nature and cuisine.

The afternoon explores more of the city’s landmarks: Hai Phong Opera House, the statue of Le Chan—a revered female general—and Hai Phong Train Station. These sites showcase the city’s French colonial past and modern vibrancy. Many reviews mention the beautiful architecture and how these spots give a glimpse into Hai Phong’s dual identity of tradition and progress.

The vibrant Sat or Cát Bi Market is the highlight for many. Here, you can see and taste a broad array of street foods like Bánh a Cua (crab noodle soup), Bún Cá Cay (spicy seafood soup), and Da Dâm (a Vietnamese dessert). Guides often share cooking tips and stories behind these dishes, making the experience educational as well as flavorful. The market visits are highly praised for their lively atmosphere and authentic flavors—many guests describe it as “immersive,” feeling like part of the city’s daily life.

After a few hours of market exploration, the group boards the train back to Hanoi, arriving in the evening after a scenic ride. The journey back is often seen as a relaxing wrap-up, allowing travelers to process the day and enjoy the passing scenery.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

Long Bien Station & Train Ride: This part transforms a simple transfer into a memorable experience, highlighting Vietnam’s railway charm. It’s a nice change from buses or cars, especially appreciated by those who enjoy train travel.

Cau Dat with Crab Soup: This meal signals the start of your culinary adventure. Crab soup is a local specialty, and many reviews mention how flavorful and satisfying it is. It sets the tone for the rest of the day’s food explorations.

Du Hang Pagoda: Visiting one of Hai Phong’s oldest religious sites offers cultural depth. The peaceful atmosphere and stories from guides help appreciate the city’s spiritual heritage.

Market Visits & Street Food: The market is the heart of Hai Phong’s food scene. Tasting local dishes like Bánh Mỳ Que and crab noodle soup while engaging directly with vendors makes this a truly immersive experience.

Landmarks & Architecture: The opera house and train station showcase the city’s colonial and modern influences, providing great photo opportunities and historical context.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

Many visitors highlight the tour’s focus on authentic local dishes—from street-food snacks to traditional seafood soups. Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing personal stories and cooking tips. One review noted, “The guide was so friendly and careful,” which adds to the feeling of a personal, engaging experience rather than a rushed tour.

The Value Proposition

At $69, this tour offers excellent value considering the transportation, meals, entrance fees, and guided commentary included. Guests consistently point out that the food alone is worth the price, with a variety of delicious, authentic dishes that are hard to find elsewhere. Plus, the train journey adds a nostalgic and scenic element, elevating the overall experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits food lovers eager to try authentic Vietnamese dishes in a lively market setting. It’s also a great option for history buffs interested in seeing colonial architecture and learning about local temples. Travelers who enjoy scenic train rides and interactive cultural experiences will find it particularly rewarding. However, those looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced tour might find the long hours a bit tiring.

Final Thoughts

The Hai Phong City Historical and Food Tour by train offers a well-rounded glimpse of Vietnam’s coastal city—combining culinary delights, historic sites, and local markets into one engaging day. The tour’s highlights—delicious regional dishes, fascinating architecture, and vibrant market scenes—are all delivered with the warmth and expertise of guides dedicated to sharing their city’s treasures.

If you’re someone who loves authentic street food, enjoys learning about local history, and doesn’t mind a full schedule, this tour will make your trip to Vietnam richer. We think it’s especially worthwhile for those who appreciate a balanced mix of culture and foodie fun, wrapped up in the comfort of air-conditioned transport and a scenic train ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible. Just keep in mind the long hours and walking involved.

What about the train ride?
The train journey from Hanoi to Hai Phong is approximately two hours each way. Many reviews mention that it’s a comfortable, scenic, and enjoyable part of the experience—adding a special touch to the day.

Are all meals included?
Yes, all meals are included in the price, from the crab soup lunch to street snacks and desserts. This makes it easy to budget and enjoy without extra costs.

What are the main highlights?
You’ll visit historic sites like Du Hang Pagoda, explore vibrant markets, sample local dishes like Bánh Da Cua and crab noodle soup, and see beautiful architecture including the Hai Phong Opera House and colonial train station.

Is the tour customized or private?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, giving you a more personalized experience.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a compelling way to see a different side of Vietnam—less touristy, more authentic, and deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer exploring Vietnam’s coast, Hai Phong’s vibrant streets and flavorful dishes will leave you with memorable stories and great photos.