Best Time to Visit Son Tay Hanoi: Eco-Friendly Tours & Seasonal Guide

A Cultural and Eco-Tourism Retreat Near Hanoi

Located 43 km west of Hanoi in Son Tay Ward, Son Tay is a captivating eco-tourism destination blending rich history, serene landscapes, and a tropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Home to the ancient Son Tay Citadel, Duong Lam Ancient Village (4 km away), and near Ba Vi National Park (20 km), it offers a tranquil escape from Hanoi’s urban energy. With an average annual temperature of 25.7°C (78.3°F) and 1,750 mm of rainfall, Son Tay’s hilly terrain ensures cooler weather than Hanoi, ideal for sustainable adventures like cycling, cultural festivals, and eco-friendly homestays. Aligned with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, Son Tay promotes sustainable tourism through conserved ecosystems and local engagement. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours provide a responsible, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

When to Visit?

• Spring (February–April, Best for Cultural Festivals): Mild, humid weather (15–25°C or 59–77°F) and Tet celebrations make it ideal for cultural immersion and cycling.

• Summer (May–August, Budget-Friendly): Hot, rainy weather (28–35°C or 82.4–95°F) with 15–25% tour discounts, perfect for indoor historical sites.

• Autumn (September–November, Best Overall): Cool, dry weather (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) and wild sunflowers (November) suit trekking and photography.

• Winter (December–March, Best for Culinary Experiences): Cool, foggy weather (10–20°C or 50–68°F) is great for hotpot dining and historical tours.

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Son Tay District now Son Tay Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This improves access through sustainable infrastructure, including upgraded roads and eco-transport options, ensuring seamless travel to Son Tay.

Legend Travel Group is a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-tours to Son Tay with a focus on environmental care and cultural immersion. Our tours use fuel-efficient vehicles, cyclos, and local guides who share Son Tay’s history and traditions, ensuring a safe, enriching experience. Supporting Son Tay Ward’s 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 Son Tay responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Son Tay’s humid subtropical climate, shaped by northeast and southwest monsoons, features 1,750 mm of annual rainfall and 1,600–1,800 hours of sunshine. At 19.48 meters above sea level, its hilly terrain moderates temperatures, averaging 25.7°C (78.3°F) yearly, with lows of 6.7°C (44.1°F) in January and highs of 41.2°C (106.2°F) in June. The four seasons—spring (February–April), summer (May–August), autumn (September–November), and winter (December–March)—offer diverse experiences, from Tet markets to sunflower photography. Recent updates include enhanced rainfall resilience measures and eco-friendly infrastructure, ensuring sustainable tourism.

Spring (February–April, 15–25°C or 59–77°F)

Spring’s mild, humid weather and light drizzles create a vibrant backdrop for cultural festivals, especially Tet, with blooming flowers and lush rice fields.

• Weather: Warm, humid, with drizzles; average 20°C (68°F). Ideal for cycling and cultural immersion, though fog may occur.

• Top Activities:

  • Tet Festival in Duong Lam: Join vibrant markets and taste bánh chưng ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) in Duong Lam Ancient Village (4 km), a 1–2-hour cultural activity. Cost: Free entry; guided tour $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Cycling Tour: Bike through Son Tay’s rice fields and villages, a 2–3-hour eco-friendly activity. Cost: Bike rental $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tour $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

  • Moon Garden Homestay: Experience rural life at Ky Son (10 km), including cooking classes, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity. Cost: Free entry; guided tour $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Use bikes to reduce emissions; support local artisans with craft purchases ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

Summer (May–August, 28–35°C or 82.4–95°F)

Summer’s heat, humidity, and frequent storms make it budget-friendly, ideal for indoor cultural sites and lush greenery exploration.

• Weather: Hot, humid, with heavy rainfall (July–August peak); highs up to 41.2°C (106.2°F). Best for shaded or indoor activities.

• Top Activities:

  • Son Tay Citadel Exploration: Tour the 19th-century citadel, a 1-hour indoor historical activity. Cost: Free entry; guided tour $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Ca Trù Workshop: Learn UNESCO-recognized Ca Trù singing at local centers, a 1–2-hour sustainable cultural activity. Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Eco-Picnicking at Dong Mo Lake: Enjoy local produce by the lake (10 km), a 1–2-hour low-impact activity. Cost: Supplies $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Bring reusable rain gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); visit early morning to avoid afternoon storms.

Autumn (September–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)

Autumn’s cool, dry weather and vibrant wild sunflowers (November) make it the best season for trekking, photography, and outdoor adventures.

• Weather: Cool, dry, sunny; average 25°C (77°F). Perfect for scenic views and outdoor exploration.

• Top Activities:

  • Wild Sunflower Photography: Capture blooms near Ba Vi National Park (20 km), a 1–2-hour eco-friendly activity. Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); professional permit $30/day (750,000 VND, groups <10).

  • Trekking to Thuong Temple: Hike to Thuong Temple in Ba Vi (20 km), a 2–3-hour sustainable trek. Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); guided trek $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Duong Lam Market Stroll: Explore local crafts and foods, a 1-hour cultural activity. Cost: Free; guided tour $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Use electric shuttles in Ba Vi ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); buy local produce ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) to support farmers.

Winter (December–March, 10–20°C or 50–68°F)

Winter’s cool, foggy weather is ideal for cozy culinary experiences and historical site visits, with Tet preparations adding cultural depth.

• Weather: Cool, dry, with high humidity; lows to 6.7°C (44.1°F). Best for indoor and culinary activities.

• Top Activities:

  • Hotpot Dining: Savor communal hotpot at Son Tay eateries, a 1–2-hour sustainable meal. Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Vietnam National Village Tour: Explore ethnic cultures (10 km), a 2–3-hour cultural activity. Cost: Entry $1.50 (37,500 VND); guided tour $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • K9 Đá Chông Historical Visit: Reflect at this Ho Chi Minh site (15 km), a 1–2-hour historical tour. Cost: Free entry with registration; guided tour $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Wear layers to reduce heating needs; dine at sustainable restaurants.

Son Tay is reachable in 1–1.5 hours from Hanoi, covering 43 km via sustainable transport options:

• By Air: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 70 km away, serves domestic and international flights. Round-trip costs: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), international (e.g., Bangkok, $200–$600). Airport bus No. 86 to Hanoi ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab to Son Tay ($30–$40 or 750,000–1,000,000 VND).

• By Bus (Eco-Friendly): From My Dinh Bus Station, take Route 74 or 107 to Son Tay (1–1.5 hours, $2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND). Buses run every 20–30 minutes from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• By Motorbike: Rent a motorbike in Hanoi ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND). Take Thang Long Avenue to Hoa Lac Overpass (~1 hour, 43 km) or Route 32 to Son Tay (~1.5 hours, 43 km). Fuel: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) round-trip.

• By Taxi or Grab: From Hoan Kiem Ward, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) one-way; $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip.

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): Book a private car ($70–$100 or 1,750,000–2,500,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for eco-friendly travel with stopovers at Duong Lam or Ba Vi.

Tip: Buses or shared private cars reduce emissions; download offline maps (Maps.me) with “Son Tay, Hanoi” as a landmark.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for summer; layers for winter; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Modest attire for cultural sites; non-slip shoes for trekking.

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

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

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

• Extras: Notebook for cultural notes; local snacks ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

Tip: Carry small VND notes; use a waterproof bag for electronics in rainy season.

Entrance and Activity Fees

• Son Tay Citadel: Free; guided tour $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Duong Lam Ancient Village: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); guided tour $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Vietnam National Village: $1.50 (37,500 VND); guided tour $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Ba Vi National Park (Nearby): $1 (20,000 VND); shuttle $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Cultural Workshops: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Parking: Motorbike $0.40 (10,000 VND); car $0.80–$1.60 (20,000–40,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip)

• Bus: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Motorbike: $7–$14 (175,000–350,000 VND, rental + fuel).

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

• Private Car: $70–$100 (1,750,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Airport Bus + Taxi: $36–$48 (900,000–1,200,000 VND).

Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)

• Homestays (e.g., Moon Garden): $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

Food

• Street Food: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per dish.

• Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per meal.

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $20–$40 (bus, homestay, street food).

• Mid-range: $50–$80 (motorbike, guided tours, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$150 (private car, hotel, premium dining).

Tip: Book early for Tet or autumn; carry VND for small fees.

• Choose Your Season Wisely: Autumn for sunflowers and trekking; winter for hotpot and history; spring for Tet; summer for indoor sites. Morning visits avoid crowds.

• Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons to secure spots. Contact sites like Duong Lam for entry details.

• Sustainability: Use buses or bikes ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) to reduce emissions; buy local crafts ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) to support artisans. Bring reusable items to minimize waste.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); mark “Son Tay, Hanoi” as a landmark. Local guides ensure seamless access.

• Safety: Wear non-slip shoes for trekking; carry a first-aid kit. Avoid rainy days (July–August) for outdoor activities.

• Weather Considerations: Dry season (November–April) for clear skies; rainy season (May–October) requires waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather for updates.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND). Respect customs at cultural sites.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent; ensure fitness for trekking.

Our sustainable tours showcase Son Tay’s cultural and natural wonders:

• Son Tay Eco-Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Son Tay Citadel, Duong Lam Ancient Village, eco-friendly lunch, cycling tour. Includes private car, guide.

• Son Tay & Ba Vi Cultural Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Moon Garden Homestay, Ba Vi National Park, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Son Tay, K9 Đá Chông, Hoan Kiem Lake, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Son Tay, just 43 km from Hanoi, is a sustainable eco-tourism destination where its tropical monsoon climate shapes four vibrant seasons, each offering unique cultural and natural experiences. From Tet markets in spring to sunflower hikes in autumn, Son Tay captivates year-round. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours provide a responsible, immersive journey, supporting Son Tay’s community and Hanoi’s green initiatives. Whether cycling through rice fields or exploring ancient citadels, Son Tay promises unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Son Tay adventure today!
Ready to explore Hanoi’s cultural retreat? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable getaway!

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

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group