HAI PHONG CITY
Hai Phong is Vietnam’s major port city, often called the “Red Flamboyant City.” It is a vital industrial hub with a rich, historic French colonial heritage. It serves as the gateway to the stunning natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay and features unique urban architecture alongside vibrant local culture.
Most Popular Attractions
City Core & Culture
Hai Phong Opera House (Nhà Hát Lớn – Nha Hat Luhn): An iconic, well-preserved French colonial building and the city’s cultural heart.
Tam Bạc Lake (Hồ Tam Bạc – Hoh Tahm Bac): A scenic urban lake perfect for an evening stroll, surrounded by local cafes and eateries.
Du Hang Pagoda (Chùa Dư Hàng – Chua Zuh Hahng): A significant ancient Buddhist temple dating back to the 17th century, known for its peaceful grounds.
Hai Phong Museum (Bảo Tàng Hải Phòng – Bao Tahng Hie Pohng): Showcases the history and culture of the port city and its revolutionary past.
Dinh Market (Chợ Đình – Chuh Ding): A large, lively local market offering fresh produce, seafood, and a glimpse into daily life.
Flower Garden (Vườn Hoa Trung Tâm): The central roundabout park featuring the statue of General Lê Chân, the city’s revered founder.
Lạch Tray Stadium (Sân Vận Động Lạch Tray – Suhn Vuhn Dohng Lach Tray): The passionate home stadium of the Hai Phong football club, a major local landmark.
Islands, Beaches & Nature (Cat Ba & Lan Ha Bay)
Lan Ha Bay (Vịnh Lan Hạ – Ving Lahn Hah): A pristine, quieter extension of Halong Bay, famous for kayaking and untouched beaches.
Cat Ba Island (Đảo Cát Bà – Dow Caht Bah): The largest island in the bay, serving as the main base for trekking and boat tour departures.
Cat Ba National Park (Vườn Quốc Gia Cát Bà – Vuhn Kwok Gyah Caht Bah): Home to the endangered Cat Ba langur and offers diverse rainforest hiking trails.
Hospital Cave (Hang Quân Y – Hahng Qwuhn Yee): A unique, former secret hospital built into a cave used during the Vietnam War.
Cannon Fort (Pháo Đài Thần Công – Fow Die Thuhn Gohng): A historical site on Cat Ba Island offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire bay.
Tung Thu Beach (Bãi Tùng Thu – Bie Toong Thoo): A popular, protected beach on the main Cat Ba coastline, great for swimming.
Monkey Island (Đảo Khỉ – Dow Khee): A small island known for its clear swimming water and resident wild monkeys.
Ba Trai Dao Beach (Bãi Ba Trái Đào – Bie Bah Trai Dow): “Three Peaches” Beach, famous for its distinctive trio of large rock formations.
Historical Architecture & Specialties
Hàng Kênh Communal House (Đình Hàng Kênh – Ding Hahng Keng): An exquisite example of traditional Vietnamese wooden architecture and detailed carving art.
Bạch Đằng River (Sông Bạch Đằng – Soong Bach Dahng): Site of three historic Vietnamese naval victories over invading forces.
Trần Dynasty Temple (Đền Nhà Trần – Deng Nha Chuhn): A significant spiritual site dedicated to the heroes of the Trần dynasty.
Bảo Đại’s Summer Palace (Dinh Bảo Đại – Ding Bao Die): The former summer residence of Vietnam’s last Emperor, offering historical insight.
Bánh Đa Cua Stalls (Banh Dah Coo-ah): Essential street food stalls serving the city’s famous crab noodle soup, often with a unique red noodle.
Dư Hàng Kênh Pagoda (Chùa Dư Hàng Kênh): Another important historical temple known for its ancient bells and serene surroundings.
Cầu Rào Bridge (Cầu Rào – Cow Rao): A modern, impressive cable-stayed bridge and a key infrastructural landmark connecting different parts of the city.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Natural Wonder of Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Archipelago: Take a boat or kayaking tour through the dramatic limestone karsts, hidden lagoons, and secluded beaches. Cat Ba Island (Pronunciation: Cat Bah) is the main hub for exploring this quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay.
Hike in Cat Ba National Park: Trek through the dense jungle, home to the critically endangered Cat Ba langur, and climb to the viewpoint on the main island for panoramic vistas of the bay.
Kayak or Rock Climb in Lan Ha Bay: Join a guided tour for kayaking through caves and floating fishing villages, or try the exhilarating sport of rock climbing on the bay’s sheer cliffs.
Visit the Hai Phong Opera House and Colonial Quarter: Stroll around the elegant, French-colonial Nhà hát lớn Hải Phòng (Pronunciation: Nyaa hat leun Hi Fong) and the surrounding streets like Tran Hung Dao and Dien Bien Phu, which are filled with picturesque architecture.
Take a Street Food Tour: Indulge in Hai Phong’s unique culinary specialties, such as Bánh đa cua (Pronunciation: Banh da cooa – red noodle soup with crab meat) and Bún cá cay (Pronunciation: Boon ca kie – spicy fish noodle soup).
Discover Du Hang Pagoda: Visit this ancient Buddhist temple, originally built in the 17th century, to admire its traditional Vietnamese architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful bonsai gardens.
Relax at Do Son Beach: Head to this popular coastal resort town, just southwest of the city center, which was historically favored by the French colonial elite.
Cycle to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island: Take a leisurely bike ride through the peaceful, rural village of Viet Hai, tucked away in Cat Ba National Park, for an authentic glimpse into local island life.
Stroll Around Tam Bac Lake: Enjoy a relaxing walk in the evening around the central lake and the adjacent flower market, a hub for local life and a great spot for people-watching.
Visit the Nghe Temple (Đền Nghè): Pay homage at this historical temple dedicated to Lê Chân (Pronunciation: Lay Chân), the female general and founder of Hai Phong City.
Explore Trung Trang Cave: Wander through this large, ancient cave system on Cat Ba Island, featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Immerse Yourself in the Local Markets: Experience the vibrant energy of local commerce at markets like Chợ Sắt (Sat Market – Pronunciation: Chur Sat) or the food stalls around Tam Bac Lake.
Local Tips & Transport
Motorbikes & Xe Ôm: Motorbikes are the dominant form of local transport. For quick, thrilling trips, use a Xe Ôm (Pronunciation: Zay Ohm – motorbike taxi). Always negotiate the fare beforehand or use a ride-hailing app (like Grab) for a fixed price in USD equivalent.
Taxis: Standard four-wheel taxis are readily available and a comfortable option, especially for longer distances or when carrying luggage. Look for reputable companies (Mai Linh or Taxi Hoang Anh).
Buses: Hai Phong has an extensive and very affordable public bus network (fares are typically less than $1 USD), with routes covering the city center and main tourist destinations like Do Son Beach.
Ferries & Cable Car to Cat Ba: Access to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay is via ferry or the modern Sun World Cat Ba Cable Car. The cable car offers a fast, scenic route to the island center, while ferries (from ports like Bến phà Gót – Bến Gót Pronunciation: Ben Goat) are often used for vehicles.
From the Airport: Cat Bi International Airport (Sân bay Cát Bi – HPH) is close to the city center. A taxi or a pre-booked car is the most convenient option, taking about 15-20 minutes.
The Red Flower City: Hai Phong is affectionately known as the “City of the Red Flamboyant Flowers” (Thành phố Hoa Phượng Đỏ – Than pho Wha Phueung Doe). If you visit in May, you’ll see the streets alight with the vibrant red blooms, which is celebrated with the annual Flamboyant Flower Festival.
Cuisine is King: Hai Phong is a famous food city. Unlike Hanoi, its specialties are distinctly coastal and hearty. Don’t leave without trying the signature dishes Bánh đa cua (crab noodle) and Bánh mỳ cay (Banh Mee Kie – spicy breadstick), which is a local variation of the Bánh mì.
Haggling is Expected (Politely): In local markets and with xe ôm drivers (if not using an app), politely negotiating the price is a common cultural practice. Start by offering around 2/3 of the asking price and negotiate to a fair middle ground.
Respect in Temples and Pagodas: When visiting sites like Du Hang Pagoda or Nghe Temple, dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes and hat before entering the main sanctuary. Be quiet and respectful of worshippers.
The Pace of Life: Hai Phong is a major industrial port and generally less tourist-focused than Hanoi, which means fewer touts and a more authentic, busy local atmosphere. The nightlife centers around areas like Van Cao Street.
Hidden Gems:
- The Lu Walking Street (Phố đi bộ Thế Lữ): A lively street food and entertainment area, particularly busy in the evenings and on weekends.
- Elephant Mountain (Núi Voi): Located outside the city, this site offers hiking, unique caves, and historical ruins from the Lý Dynasty.
- The Hai Phong Museum: Located in a beautiful colonial building, it provides an in-depth look at the city’s history, culture, and war artifacts.
Language: The local dialect is slightly distinct from the standard northern Vietnamese accent. While English is spoken in major tourist hotels and by some younger people, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases like Xin chào (Sin Chow – Hello) and Cảm ơn (Gahm Un – Thank you) will be greatly appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Bánh Đa Cua Bà Cụ (Banh Dah Koo-ah Bah Koo) [$2-$5] – A legendary spot for Bánh Đa Cua (Hai Phong’s signature red rice noodles with field crab, shrimp, and fish cake). Located on Cầu Đất street, it’s a true taste of the city’s soul.
Bánh Đa Cua Đồng Lạch Tray (Banh Dah Koo-ah Dawng Lahk Chray) [$2-$5] – Another highly-regarded local favorite known for its rich, flavorful crab broth and generous portions, often operating later in the evening.
Bánh Đa Cua Cô Yến (Banh Dah Koo-ah Koh Yeng) [$2-$5] – Famous for its authentic flavor and consistent quality, this is a popular stop for an early morning or midday bowl of the city’s most famous dish.
Bún Cá Cay Lê Lợi (Boon Kah Kye Lay Loy) [$3-$6] – A well-known spot for Bún Cá Cay (spicy fish noodle soup), featuring deep-fried fish pieces and a clear, tangy-spicy broth.
Bún Cá Cay Thăng To (Boon Kah Kye Thang Taw) [$3-$6] – A local favorite on Lạch Tray street for its spicy fish noodles, popular for its authentic flavor and busy, local atmosphere.
Nem Cua Bể Nga Quán (Nem Koo-ah Beh Ngah Kwahn) [$4-$8] – Renowned for its square-shaped Nem Cua Bể (sea crab spring rolls) which are packed with fresh crab meat and other fillings. A staple for a reason.
Nem Cua Bể Bà Cụ (Nem Koo-ah Beh Bah Koo) [$4-$8] – A long-standing, family-recipe shop on Cầu Đất, famous for its substantial and perfectly fried crab spring rolls.
Bánh Mì Cay Ông Cuông (Banh Mee Kye Awng Kwuhng) [$1-$3] – One of the most famous purveyors of Bánh Mì Cay (spicy baguette), a thin, crispy stick of bread filled with pâté and a generous line of local chili sauce.
Bánh Mì Cay Đinh Tiên Hoàng (Banh Mee Kye Dinh Tee-en Hwawng) [$1-$3] – Another highly-rated vendor for the quintessential spicy baguette street snack, beloved by locals for its fresh pâté and fiery chí chương (local chili sauce).
Bánh Bèo Bà Dung (Banh Beh-oh Bah Dung) [$2-$4] – A specialized vendor for Bánh Bèo (a savory rice or tapioca flour cake) in Hai Phong style, often topped with minced pork/shrimp and served with a distinctive dipping sauce.
Bánh Đúc Tàu Miếu Hai Xã (Banh Dook Tow Mee-ow Hah-ee Sah) [$1-$3] – A unique Hai Phong dish of hot, savory rice flan topped with fried shrimp, pork, and mushrooms, served with a tangy fish sauce. Must arrive early as they sell out fast.
Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm Chị Xồ (Boon Dăo Mắm Tôm Chee Saw) [$3-$7] – A popular, non-touristy choice for Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm (vermicelli, fried tofu, and pork with fermented shrimp paste), often praised for its fresh, abundant ingredients.
Bún Tôm Bà Lan (Boon Tôm Bah Lan) [$3-$6] – A simple, well-regarded shop specializing in Bún Tôm (shrimp noodle soup), known for its clear, light broth and fresh, sweet shrimp.
Miến Ngan (Mee-en Ngahn) [$3-$6] – A local shop specializing in duck vermicelli soup, a comforting breakfast or lunch dish preferred by many locals over the more famous crab dishes.
Mì Trộn Lạch Tray (Mee Trohn Lahk Chray) [$3-$6] – A favored spot for Miến Trộn (mixed glass noodles), featuring a variety of ingredients like chicken, dumplings, and fresh vegetables tossed in a savory sauce.
Phở Bò Nhừ (Fuh Baw Nyuh) [$3-$6] – A classic, local pho shop known for its tender, slow-cooked beef (bò nhừ) in a deeply flavorful broth, popular for breakfast. (Specific location not found, look for a local corner shop).
Gia Bể Xào Ba Minh (Zah Beh Săo Bah Minh) [$5-$10] – A famous vendor known for Giá Bể Xào (stir-fried Lingula – a local seafood similar to a small clam, fried with bean sprouts), a unique Hai Phong specialty.
Ốc Thủy Dương Lạch Tray (Ock Thwee Duh-uhng Lahk Chray) [$5-$15] – One of the city’s most famous “Ốc” (snail/shellfish) restaurants, serving a wide variety of seafood dishes prepared in local styles, from steaming to stir-frying.
Ốc Hoa Mây Tơ (Ock Hwah May Tuh) [$5-$15] – A popular spot known for its delicious stir-fried snail dishes, a quintessential Hai Phong evening snack or light dinner experience.
Bánh Đa Xào Giòn (Banh Dah Săo Zawng) [$3-$6] – A beloved late-night street food vendor known for Bánh Đa Xào Giòn (crispy stir-fried red rice noodles), which are crunchy yet chewy and satisfying.
Sủi Dìn Cô Út (Swee Yin Koh Oot) [$1-$3] – A classic spot for Sủi Dìn (sticky rice dumplings filled with black sesame and served in a warm, ginger-infused syrup), a favorite winter dessert/snack.
Chè Hoa Cau Lê Lợi (Cheh Hwah Kow Lay Loy) [$1-$3] – A traditional dessert shop famous for its Chè Hoa Cau (mung bean pudding with coconut milk), a sweet and creamy treat.
Dừa Dầm Cô Thúy (Zuh Yum Koh Thwee) [$2-$4] – A well-known vendor specializing in Dừa Dầm (a crushed coconut and coconut jelly dessert drink), a popular, refreshing summertime treat.
Quán Bún Chả Thu (Kwahn Boon Chah Thoo) [$3-$6] – A highly-rated, long-standing family shop for traditional Northern Vietnamese Bún Chả (grilled pork and vermicelli), noted for its flavorful marinade and dipping sauce.
Bún Chả Cột Đèn (Boon Chah Kote Den) [$3-$6] – A local institution for Bún Chả, known for its busy, authentic atmosphere and perfectly grilled patties.
Bún Chả Quạt Nguyễn Bình (Boon Chah Kwah-t Ngwih-en Binh) [$3-$6] – Known for its ‘fan-grilled’ Bún Chả, ensuring juicy and aromatic pork patties, a favorite among residents.
Bún Chả Thanh Thủy (Boon Chah Tahnh Thwee) [$3-$6] – A popular Bún Chả spot that offers a very traditional and flavorful version of the dish, often bustling with local diners.
Bún Chả Phương Mai (Boon Chah Foo-uhng Mye) [$3-$6] – A local favorite known for its quality Bún Chả and delicious accompanying Nem Rán (fried spring rolls).
Nhà Hàng Ngoi Do (Nyah Hahng Ngoy Daw) [$15-$30] – A refined dining experience in a beautiful French villa setting, offering expertly prepared Vietnamese and Hai Phong specialties like crab spring rolls and steamed grouper.
Vinh Bac Bo Restaurant (Vinh Bahk Baw Restaurant) [$15-$30] – Features a spacious, tastefully decorated interior and an extensive menu of fresh seafood—mantis shrimp, abalone stew, fried prawns—alongside Vietnamese staples.
Thuyen Hai San Restaurant (Thwee-en Hah-ee Sahn Restaurant) [$10-$25] – Offers a relaxed, local experience with a focus on incredibly fresh, simple seafood dishes. The energetic, friendly service is often highlighted by locals.
Lẩu Cua Đồng Minh Quỳnh (Lăo Koo-ah Dawng Minh Kwin) [$10-$25] – A specialized restaurant known for its hearty Lẩu Cua Đồng (freshwater field crab hotpot), a communal dish with a rich, distinctive broth.
Lẩu Cua Đồng 245 Lạch Tray (Lăo Koo-ah Dawng 245 Lahk Chray) [$10-$25] – Another highly-rated spot for the local specialty crab hotpot, favored for its authentic flavors and generous portions.
Nhà Hàng Cơm Việt (Nyah Hahng Cơm Viet) [$8-$15] – A homey restaurant specializing in Vietnamese rice-based dishes (Cơm), offering a taste of traditional, family-style meals.
Quán Gió (Kwahn Yaw) [$8-$15] – A popular local restaurant often located with a view or nice ambiance, serving a wide variety of Vietnamese comfort food.
Quán Bún Chả Quạt (Kwahn Boon Chah Kwah-t) [$3-$7] – A simple, local-favorite shop specializing in the ‘fan-grilled’ Bún Chả, which provides a smoky, authentic flavor.
Quán Ốc Hải Phòng (Kwahn Ock Hah-ee Fawng) [$5-$15] – A popular gathering spot among locals for fresh and diverse shellfish preparations, a great place to experience the city’s lively evening food culture.
Nhà Hàng Hải Sản (Nyah Hahng Hah-ee Sahn) [$15-$35] – A reliable spot for fresh seafood, serving a variety of grilled, steamed, and fried catches from the nearby ocean.
La Brasserie [$25-$50] – Located in a major hotel, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu blending Asian, international, and Vietnamese cuisine, available as a set menu or à-la-carte.
Hishou Restaurant [$20-$45] – An authentic Japanese restaurant in a premium hotel, specializing in tempura and other traditional dishes created by a Japanese chef using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Toscana Italian Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers a break from local cuisine with a highly-regarded menu of Italian classics, known for its atmosphere and quality ingredients.
Bep Phuong Hong Restaurant (Bep Foo-uhng Hawng) [$10-$25] – A well-regarded local restaurant offering a mix of Vietnamese and modern dishes, often a preferred spot for family gatherings and celebrations.
Amakong Restaurant [$15-$35] – A modern venue that serves a fusion of local and international dishes in an elegant setting, catering to a sophisticated palate.
Indian Kitchen Hai Phong [$10-$20] – A popular choice for authentic Indian cuisine, offering a diverse menu of curries, tandoori, and vegetarian options for a change of pace.
Tu Xuyen Grill & Hotpot (Too Sween) [$10-$25] – Famous for its signature Sichuan hotpot, packed with aromatic herbs and spices, as well as veal and goat specialties. A great option for a flavorful, communal meal.
Nhat Ly Goat Hotpot Restaurant (Nyat Lee) [$10-$25] – Specializes in goat dishes, particularly a flavorful goat hotpot, a favorite local winter meal.
Sabay Thai Hai Phong [$10-$20] – Offers well-executed Thai cuisine, a great option for those craving bold, non-Vietnamese Asian flavors in a comfortable setting.
Phuong Nam Restaurant (Foo-uhng Nahm) [$10-$20] – A local restaurant that provides both local and international dishes, often appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and variety.
Loc Thanh Restaurant (Lawk Tahnh) [$10-$20] – Known for its wide menu of Asian and Vietnamese dishes, a reliable choice for a high-quality meal with variety.
Auzzie Times Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers a mix of Western and Vietnamese dishes, noted for its relaxed, contemporary ambiance and popular with the expat community and modern locals.
Cà Phê Cốt Dừa Cô Hạnh (Cah Fe Kaw-t Zuh-uh Koh Hahnh) [$2-$4] – Not a restaurant, but a famous cafe for Cà Phê Cốt Dừa (coconut coffee), a must-try local drink.
Trà Cúc Phan Bội Châu (Trah Kook Fahn Boy Chow) [$1-$3] – A famous street vendor location for Trà Hoa Cúc (Chrysanthemum Tea), a light, refreshing local beverage popular in the evenings.
Bánh Mì Trứng Đánh Kem (Banh Mee Truhng Dahnh Kem) [$1-$3] – A unique Hai Phong breakfast/snack: a baguette with whipped, savory egg cream. (look for a vendor on Lý Thường Kiệt street in the morning).
Bún Chả Nem Cua Bể Tô Hiệu (Boon Chah Nem Koo-ah Beh Toh Hee-uh) [$4-$8] – A reliable mid-range option combining two local specialties, Bún Chả and Nem Cua Bể, a great choice for a comprehensive meal.
Chợ Cát Bi (Chaw Cat Bee) [Varies, $1-$10] – Not a single restaurant, but one of Hai Phong’s most famous food markets, offering a vast selection of local street foods and small stalls, perfect for a food crawl.
Chợ Cố Đạo (Chaw Koh Dah-o) [Varies, $1-$10] – Another key food market, famous for vendors selling specialty items like Nem Chua (sour fermented pork roll) and local savory cakes.
Gỏi Nhệch (Goy Nyeh-ch) [Varies, $5-$15] – A dish of raw fish salad requiring an adventurous palate, best sought out at local specialty seafood restaurants or stalls near the coast.
Bánh Đa Cua 195 Cầu Đất (Banh Dah Koo-ah 195 Cầu Đất) [$2-$5] – A dedicated shop for Bánh Đa Cua, often praised for serving a high-quality, authentic version of the dish right in the city center.
Bánh Đa Cua 47 Lạch Tray (Banh Dah Koo-ah 47 Lạch Tray) [$2-$5] – A popular, busy vendor for the staple noodle dish, known for its consistent quality and lively atmosphere.
Bánh Đa Cua Cầu Đất (Banh Dah Koo-ah Cầu Đất) [$2-$5] – A very famous spot on Cầu Đất known for serving Bánh Đa Cua all day long, catering to the city’s love for the dish.
Bánh Đa Cua Bà Đáng (Banh Dah Koo-ah Bah Dahng) [$2-$5] – A highly-rated small shop for Bánh Đa Cua, favored by those seeking a more old-school, local preparation of the dish.
Nem Cua Bể Phương Mai (Nem Koo-ah Beh Foo-uhng Mye) [$4-$8] – A respected name for crab spring rolls, known for the high-quality, fresh crab meat used in the filling.
Nem Cua Bể Chợ Cát Bi (Nem Koo-ah Beh Chaw Cat Bee) [$3-$7] – A market stall often highlighted for its excellent and affordable crab spring rolls, offering an authentic market food experience.
Bánh Bèo Lạch Tray (Banh Beh-oh Lahk Chray) [$2-$4] – A well-known vendor on Lạch Tray street specializing in the local savory rice cake, perfect for a snack.
Chè Dừa Dầm 124 Lạch Tray (Cheh Zuh-uh Yum 124 Lahk Chray) [$2-$4] – One of the most famous locations for the popular Dừa Dầm (coconut dessert drink), particularly refreshing on a hot day.
Bánh Đa Cua Đồng Cát Dài (Banh Dah Koo-ah Dawng Cat Zye) [$2-$5] – A local institution for the crab noodle soup, noted for its strong, authentic broth and busy, no-frills setting.
Bánh Đa Cua 26 Kỳ Đồng (Banh Dah Koo-ah 26 Kee Dawng) [$2-$5] – A long-running establishment on Kỳ Đồng street, known for serving a quality, reliable bowl of Hai Phong’s signature noodles.
Bánh Mì Cay Bà Già (Banh Mee Kye Bah Zah) [$1-$3] – A highly-regarded, generational street vendor for the spicy baguette, a true taste of local street food heritage.
Bún Chả Hải Anh (Boon Chah Hah-ee Ahnh) [$3-$6] – A local shop that excels in both Bún Chả and Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm, known for its fresh ingredients and traditional preparation.
Cà Phê Cốt Dừa Cô Hà (Cah Fe Kaw-t Zuh-uh Koh Hah) [$2-$4] – Another recommended cafe for the famous coconut coffee, a local alternative to the more well-known spots.
Thạch Găng (Tahk Gahng) [$1-$3] – A stall specializing in Thạch Găng (a unique, slightly savory black jelly dessert) often topped with coconut milk or a sweet syrup.
Bánh Đa Cua Huyền Trang (Banh Dah Koo-ah Hwih-en Trahng) [$2-$5] – A local favorite that also offers excellent Bún Cá (fish noodle soup), providing a dual specialty.
Quán Ốc Sạch (Kwahn Ock Sahch) [$5-$15] – A shop specializing in clean, fresh snail and seafood dishes, often highlighted by locals for quality control.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Skyline Bar (pronunciation: Skai-lain Bar): Located in the city center, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of Hai Phong and the surrounding harbor. It’s known for its modern ambiance and signature, fruit-infused cocktails.
The Little Bar – Bar Cocktail (pronunciation: Zuh Lit-uhl Bar): A cozy and hidden gem situated near the Opera House, offering a curated menu of classic and inventive cocktails in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Camellia Lounge & Bar (pronunciation: Kah-mee-lee-uh): Found within one of the city’s premier hotels in the central district, this bar provides a luxurious atmosphere perfect for sophisticated evening drinks.
B&B Bar (pronunciation: Bee and Bee Bar): A popular spot in the busy Ngo Quyen district, known for its friendly service, extensive drinks list, and a lively, though not overly loud, environment.
1986 Coffee & Bar (pronunciation: Wan Nien Ai-tee Siks): Situated in a bustling part of the city, this establishment transitions smoothly from a daytime cafe to a nighttime bar, offering a good selection of wines and spirits alongside cocktails.
Minh Khai Cocktail & Wine Bar (pronunciation: Minh Kai): Located on Minh Khai street, this bar offers a slightly more rustic and warm setting, focusing on both local and international wines as well as expertly mixed cocktails.
The Hangout (pronunciation: Zuh Hang-owt): A casual, modern spot often frequented by young locals and expats, found in the heart of the entertainment area, popular for its craft beers and simple cocktails.
J.C. Club & Cocktail Bar (pronunciation: Jay See Club): A dual-purpose venue in the central district that starts as a sleek cocktail lounge before transitioning into a more energetic club as the night progresses.
Phoenix Bar (pronunciation: Fee-niks Bar): Known for its comfortable seating and relaxed vibe, this bar in a more quiet area of the city is ideal for conversation over a well-made Old Fashioned.
F5 Bar (pronunciation: Eff Five Bar): A lively, mid-sized bar found in the central urban area, providing a good mix of affordable drinks, upbeat music, and a friendly social atmosphere.
Beer Club Hùng Vương (pronunciation: Beer Club Hoong Vung): While specializing in beer, this large venue in the Hồng Bàng district also offers a selection of basic cocktails and is a high-energy pre-clubbing spot.
Chill & Chat Bar (pronunciation: Chil and Chat Bar): True to its name, this venue is found slightly off the main thoroughfare and is perfect for a laid-back evening, offering creative non-alcoholic options alongside standard cocktails.
The Rooftop – Mercure Hotel (pronunciation: Zuh Rooftop): Offering spectacular elevated views from a prominent hotel in the city, this bar is known for its sophisticated presentation and premium spirits.
Phố Đi Bộ Bar (pronunciation: Foh Dee Boh Bar – translates to ‘Walking Street Bar’): Located on or near the central pedestrian street, this spot captures the vibrant, bustling street energy and serves tropical-inspired drinks.
Vũ Bar (pronunciation: Voo Bar): A modern, dimly lit bar in the city’s downtown area, known for its attentive bartenders and excellent selection of imported whiskeys and liqueurs.
New MDM Club (pronunciation: Noo Em Dee Em Club): A massive, high-profile nightclub in the city center, famous for hosting international DJs and featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. It’s a premier destination for commercial and EDM music.
The City Club (pronunciation: Zuh Sit-ee Club): Located in a central, easily accessible area, this club is popular for its energetic atmosphere and playing a mix of K-Pop, V-Pop, and Western chart hits.
The Opera Nightclub (pronunciation: Zuh Op-er-ah Nait-klub): Situated near the historic Opera House, this club is known for its luxurious, themed interiors and high-end bottle service, attracting a stylish crowd.
King Night Club (pronunciation: King Nait Klub): One of the city’s largest clubs, found in the Lê Chân district, featuring a large dance floor, VIP areas, and frequent live performances and events.
The V.E.D.A Club (pronunciation: Zuh Vee Ee Dee Ay Club): Known for its intense, high-energy environment and focus on heavy electronic and techno music, this club is a favorite among serious dance music enthusiasts.
The PHOENIX Club (pronunciation: Zuh Fee-niks Club): Not to be confused with the bar, this club is in a prime entertainment hub and provides a mix of EDM and Hip-Hop with impressive visual effects.
92Club (pronunciation: Nain-tee Too Club): A centrally located, stylish club that offers a more intimate yet energetic clubbing experience, often featuring local popular DJs.
Bar Boss (pronunciation: Bar Boss): Situated in a busy nightlife section, this popular spot has a club atmosphere with a large bar, focusing on upbeat commercial dance music until the early hours.
The One Club (pronunciation: Zuh Wan Club): Known for its lively theme nights and good drink specials, this club in the center of the city attracts a young, vibrant crowd.
Sky 20 Club (pronunciation: Skai Twen-tee Club): A multi-story venue in the heart of the city that features various music styles on different floors, offering a diverse nightlife experience for different tastes.
S5 Club (pronunciation: Ess Five Club): A smaller, often packed club in a busy side street, known for its raw, intense atmosphere and focus on dance-heavy tracks.
H Club (pronunciation: Aych Club): Located in the main entertainment quarter, this is a long-standing club renowned for its strong sound system and late closing time.
The Last Club (pronunciation: Zuh Last Club): Positioned slightly outside the main downtown cluster, this club attracts a dedicated crowd and is known for its friendly staff and solid DJ lineup.
188 Club (pronunciation: Wan Ai-tee Ai-tee Club): A trendy spot often used for private events but open on weekends, offering a chic, modern vibe and a focus on premium drinks and exclusive bottle service.
Rocker Club (pronunciation: Rok-ur Club): While most clubs focus on EDM, this venue offers an alternative, occasionally hosting live bands and playing rock/alternative music in a central location.