10 Best Things to Do Outside Hanoi: Day Trips from Hoan Kiem Ward & Eco Tours

A Gateway to Vietnam’s Nature and Culture

Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi’s vibrant heart, is a cultural hub, but just beyond its bustling streets lie serene landscapes and historic treasures perfect for day trips. Within 1–2 hours, you can escape to Ba Vì’s misty peaks, Ninh Bình’s karst valleys, or Bát Tràng’s ceramic villages, offering a blend of nature, history, and authentic Vietnamese life for as little as $2–$15 (30,000–375,000 VND) per activity. These destinations, drawing over 500,000 visitors annually, provide a refreshing contrast to Hanoi’s urban energy, showcasing Vietnam’s diverse heritage.

Hanoi’s proximity to UNESCO sites like Tràng An and ancient villages like Dương Lâm makes it an ideal base for exploring Northern Vietnam’s rural charm. Eco-friendly practices, such as low-impact transport and local sourcing, align with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, enhancing sustainability. Perfect for Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), these day trips offer cool escapes. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours guide you to these gems, ensuring a sustainable, immersive adventure. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has eliminated the district level, leaving only commune and city levels. Hoan Kiem Ward is now under Hanoi City, and nearby attractions like Ba Vì and Mỹ Đức are communes, simplifying navigation with commune-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly day trips from Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric buses or cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share local history, culture, and sustainable practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Hanoi’s surroundings responsibly!

Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, with its iconic Old Quarter, is a cultural epicenter, but its outskirts reveal Vietnam’s rural soul. Within 20–100 km, you’ll find Ba Vì’s 4,000-year-old legends, Ninh Bình’s UNESCO-listed karsts, and ancient villages like Cổ Loa, tied to the Âu Lạc Kingdom (3rd century BCE). These areas, rich with over 800 plant species and ethnic diversity, offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s past and present, per local tourism data. Sustainable tourism practices, like waste-free sites and local-guided tours, preserve these treasures, making day trips a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion, ideal for families, solo travelers, or groups.

These eco-friendly day trips, within 1–2 hours from Hoan Kiem Ward, offer diverse experiences, with costs from $2–$15:

1. Explore Ba Vì National Park

Hike Vua Peak (1,296 m) in Tân Lĩnh Commune, Ba Vì, 53 km west, to visit Đền Thờ Bác Hồ, best at 7:00 AM, for $0.80 (20,000 VND) park entry, enjoying misty forests and Đa River views.

• Cost: $0.80 entry; guided hikes $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Stay on trails; use reusable bottles.

• Tip: Visit the Cactus Greenhouse ($0.80); book via Legend Travel Group’s Ba Vì Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Visit Long Việt Ecotourism Area

Discover century-old Kỳ Hoa trees and stilt houses in Nghè Village, Vân Hòa Commune, Ba Vì, 53 km west, best at 8:00 AM, with $2 (30,000 VND) entry, plus water puppet shows ($2).

• Cost: $2 entry; shows $2; meals $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable packaging; support local artisans.

• Tip: Try crab hotpot ($4–$6); included in Legend Travel Group’s Ba Vì Cultural Tour ($100–$150).

3. Boat Through Ninh Bình’s Tràng An

Sail among limestone karsts in Tràng An, Ninh Hải Commune, Hoa Lư, 90 km south, a UNESCO site, best at 8:00 AM, for $8–$10 (200,000–250,000 VND) per boat (up to 4 people).

• Cost: $8–$10 per boat; guided tours $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local rowers; avoid littering waterways.

• Tip: Visit Bái Đính Pagoda nearby; book via Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Bình Tour ($50–$80).

4. Craft Ceramics in Bát Tràng Village

Create pottery in Bát Tràng, Bát Tràng Commune, Gia Lâm, 15 km east, best at 10:00 AM, with workshops at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND), buying ceramics ($1–$10).

• Cost: Free entry; workshops $3–$5; ceramics $1–$10.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support local artisans; use reusable bags.

• Tip: Try hand-painting vases; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Step Back at Dương Lâm Ancient Village

Explore 1,200-year-old houses in Mông Phụ Hamlet, Dương Lâm Commune, Sơn Tây, 40 km west, best at 9:00 AM, with free entry, tasting sesame sweets ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Cost: Free; snacks $0.50–$1; guided tours $5–$10.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or cycle; support local vendors.

• Tip: Visit the village gate; book via Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

6. Visit Perfume Pagoda

Take a boat to Perfume Pagoda in Hương Sơn Commune, Mỹ Đức, 70 km southwest, best at 7:00 AM, for $3 (75,000 VND) boat fare, plus $2 (50,000 VND) cable car to Huong Tich Cave.

• Cost: Boat $3; cable car $2; entry $1 (25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local rowers; minimal incense use.

• Tip: Join Lunar New Year festivals (January–March); included in Legend Travel Group’s Perfume Pagoda Tour ($50–$80).

7. Discover Thanh Chương Việt Palace

Admire cultural artifacts at Thanh Chương Việt Palace in Hiền Ninh Commune, Sóc Sơn, 40 km northeast, best at 10:00 AM, for $3 (75,000 VND) entry, showcasing Dinh-Lý dynasty relics.

• Cost: $3 entry; guided tours $5–$10.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Digital tickets; respect artifacts.

• Tip: Explore the lotus pond; book via Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

8. Tour K9-Da Chong Historical Site

Visit Ho Chi Minh’s memorial at K9-Da Chong, Minh Quang Commune, Ba Vì, 70 km west, best at 8:00 AM, with free entry, honoring his revolutionary legacy from 1957–1975.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walkable site; minimal waste.

• Tip: See the preservation site; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ba Vì Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

9. Experience Vietnam Ethnic Culture Village

Explore 54 ethnic groups’ traditions at Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, Đồng Mô, Sơn Tây, 40 km west, best at 9:00 AM, for $1.20 (30,000 VND) entry.

• Cost: $1.20 entry; cultural shows $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support ethnic artisans; eco-friendly transport.

• Tip: Watch Ede stilt house performances; book via Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

10. Wander Cổ Loa Citadel

Discover the 3rd-century BCE Âu Lạc Kingdom at Cổ Loa Citadel, Cổ Loa Commune, Đông Anh, 17 km northeast, best at 8:00 AM, with $0.80 (20,000 VND) entry, exploring ancient ramparts.

• Cost: $0.80 entry; guided tours $5–$10.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Cycle or walk; respect relics.

• Tip: Visit An Dương Vương Temple; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

To fully embrace Hanoi’s surrounding attractions, follow these practices:

1. Travel Light: Pack essentials for a day trip, using reusable water bottles and bags to minimize waste.

2. Engage with Locals: Chat with artisans in Bát Tràng or farmers in Dương Lâm, many speaking basic English, for cultural insights.

3. Savor Local Flavors: Try hill chicken ($5–$7) in Ba Vì or phở gà ($1–$2) in Ninh Bình’s roadside stalls, supporting vendors.

4. Respect Nature and Heritage: Stay on trails in Ba Vì; avoid touching artifacts at Thanh Chương or Cổ Loa.
   Eco-Friendly Tip: Opt for shared shuttles or electric taxis to reduce emissions, supporting Hanoi’s green goals.

Most attractions are 15–90 km from Hoan Kiem Ward, reachable in 1–2 hours via eco-friendly options:

• By Shared Shuttle: Group vans from Mỹ Đình Bus Station to Ba Vì, Ninh Bình, or Sơn Tây (1–2 hours, $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND round-trip), bookable via Legend Travel Group.

• By Public Bus: Routes 214 (Ba Vì), 71 (Sơn Tây), or 74 (Ninh Bình) from Mỹ Đình ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), then xe máy ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND).

• By Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) plus $2–$3 fuel; use Thăng Long Avenue for Ba Vì or QL1A for Ninh Bình, avoiding rain.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) one-way to Ba Vì or Ninh Bình, eco-friendly VinFast cars.

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people.

• By Bicycle: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND) for Bát Tràng or Cổ Loa, not for longer trips.

• Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with commune addresses (e.g., “Nghè Village, Vân Hòa, Ba Vì”); confirm with locals.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Shared shuttles or electric taxis reduce emissions; carry reusable gear.

• Safety: Wear helmets on motorbikes (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND); avoid night rides on rural roads.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

• Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season. Reflective vest ($2–$5) for motorbike rides.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to minimize waste.

• Extras: Notebook for notes; cash for vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for entries ($0.80–$2) or snacks ($0.50–$1); secure valuables against pickpocketing.

Costs for Day Trips

Activity and Entry Fees

• Ba Vì National Park: $0.80 (20,000 VND); Cactus Greenhouse $0.80.

• Long Việt: $2 (30,000 VND); puppet shows $2; meals $3–$7.

• Tràng An: $8–$10 (200,000–250,000 VND) per boat; Bái Đính $1.20 (30,000 VND).

• Bát Tràng: Free; workshops $3–$5; ceramics $1–$10.

• Dương Lâm: Free; snacks $0.50–$1.

• Perfume Pagoda: Boat $3 (75,000 VND); cable car $2; entry $1.

• Thanh Chương Việt Palace: $3 (75,000 VND).

• K9-Da Chong: Free; donations $0.20–$0.50.

• Ethnic Culture Village: $1.20 (30,000 VND); shows $2–$3.

• Cổ Loa Citadel: $0.80 (20,000 VND).

• Guided Tours: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Shared Shuttle: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Bus + Xe Máy: $3.50–$5 (87,500–125,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental + Fuel: $7–$13 (175,000–325,000 VND).

• Electric Taxi: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Private Car: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Bicycle (Local): $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Accommodation (Optional, Per Night, Double Occupancy)

• Homestays (Ba Vì, Ninh Bình): $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).

• Resorts: $40–$80 (1,000,000–2,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$25 (bus, entry, snacks).

• Mid-range: $35–$60 (shuttle, tour, homestay).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (private car, resort).
  Tip: Budget for transport ($5–$15), entries ($1–$10), and meals ($3–$7); carry cash as cards are rarely accepted.

• Timing: Depart early (7:00–8:00 AM) for cooler weather and fewer crowds; mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) for quieter sites. Avoid lunar festivals (1st/15th days) unless joining events.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons; book activities like puppet shows or cable cars on-site.

• Sustainability: Use shared shuttles ($10–$15) or electric taxis ($20–$30); buy local crafts ($1–$5) to support artisans.

• Navigation: Use offline maps with commune addresses (e.g., “Bát Tràng, Gia Lâm”); confirm with locals.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets at markets; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit for hikes.

• Weather: Dry season for pleasant trips; rainy season needs waterproof gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Say “xin chào”; tip vendors $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND). Dress modestly for spiritual sites.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); apply mosquito repellent for rural areas.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s surrounding wonders:

• Ba Vì Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Shared shuttle to Long Việt and Ba Vì National Park at 7:00 AM, with hiking and puppet shows. Includes guide, transport.

• Ninh Bình Day Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Boat ride through Tràng An at 8:00 AM, visiting Bái Đính Pagoda. Includes guide, shuttle.

• Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo to Bát Tràng or Dương Lâm at 9:00 AM, with pottery or village tours. Includes guide, transport.

• Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Tràng An, Long Việt, homestays ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, eco-transfers.
  Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links

Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi’s cultural hub, serves as the perfect base for 10 unforgettable day trips within 1–2 hours, showcasing Vietnam’s 4,000-year heritage and natural splendor, drawing millions yearly. Explore these highlights:

1. Ba Vì National Park (60 km, 1.5h, $0.80 entry, 20,000 VND): Hike Vua Peak or visit Ho Chi Minh Temple.

2. Ninh Bình’s Tràng An (120 km, 2h, $8 boat ride, 200,000 VND): Glide through UNESCO-listed karsts.

3. Bát Tràng Ceramic Village (15 km, 30m, $2 workshop, 50,000 VND): Craft traditional pottery.

4. Cổ Loa Ancient Citadel (24 km, 45m, $0.40 entry, 10,000 VND): Explore Vietnam’s oldest citadel.

5. Duong Lam Ancient Village (50 km, 1h, $1 entry, 25,000 VND): Wander historic homes.

6. Tam Cốc (110 km, 2h, $7 boat tour, 175,000 VND): Navigate rice fields and caves.

7. Thay Pagoda (40 km, 1h, free entry): Admire ancient Buddhist architecture.

8. Van Phuc Silk Village (15 km, 30m, free entry): Shop for handwoven silk.

9. Mai Châu (140 km, 2.5h, $3 homestay, 75,000 VND): Experience Muong culture.

10. Perfume Pagoda (60 km, 1.5h, $5 boat ride, 125,000 VND): Visit sacred caves.

Supported by sustainable practices like eco-friendly transport (bicycles: $2–$5/day, 50,000–125,000 VND) and local-guided tours, Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Hanoi Travelexperience, blending these adventures with culinary delights like phở ($1–$3, 25,000–75,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover day trips from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem District? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Hanoi Day Trips Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, hanoilocaltour.com, tripadvisor.com, originvietnam.com