Hai Phong aims to become major national tourism hub

Diverse tourism types, elevated destinations

With geographical advantages, a well-connected transport system, abundant natural resources, and a rich cultural heritage, Hai Phong has been leveraging its strengths to develop tourism as a key economic sector.

Marine and island tourism remains the city’s mainstay, with Do Son and Cat Ba as standout destinations. Lan Ha Bay, part of the Cat Ba Archipelago, has impressed visitors with its magnificent landscapes and pristine ecology, making it a favorite among domestic and international tourists.

Meanwhile, a rich system of historical and cultural relics such as Con Son – Kiep Bac, Bach Dang Giang, Giam pagoda, Nham Duong pagoda, and Kinh Chu cave provides a solid foundation for cultural and spiritual tourism.

Hai Phong tourism has recently marked two milestones: the Cat Ba Archipelago being recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site, and part of the Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son – Kiep Bac complex being honored as a World Cultural Heritage site. These globally significant achievements not only elevate Hai Phong’s tourism brand but also open new opportunities for sustainable development linked to heritage conservation and promotion.

Recognizing infrastructure as a key factor, the city has concentrated resources on developing tourism facilities. Major projects have been launched, such as the Cat Hai – Cat Ba cable car, connecting roads, eco-resorts, golf courses, and high-end hotels in Cat Ba.

In Do Son, projects including the Dragon Hill International Tourism Complex, golf courses, five-star hotels, Nam Do Son Port, and an AEON Mall are reshaping the face of the long-standing coastal destination.

In terms of connectivity, key routes like the Hai Phong – Ha Long expressway, Ben Rung bridge, a coastal ring road, and upgraded inland waterways have shortened travel time, improved regional linkages, and enhanced visitor experiences.

Thanks to its right orientation and persistent efforts, Hai Phong tourism has achieved impressive results. Between 2020 and 2024, visitor numbers grew steadily. Despite the Covid-19 outbreak, the city welcomed about 6.6 million visitors in 2021. By 2024, this figure had nearly doubled to 11.65 million. In 2025, the city expects to welcome around 13.9 million visitors.

Consistent policies, proactive approaches

Tran Thi Hoang Mai, Director of the city Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said: “Our department has worked closely with domestic and international media to promote Hai Phong tourism. We have showcased the city’s attractions on all Vietnam Airlines’ domestic and international flights, on LED screens at international airports, and across multiple social media platforms.”

The city has also hosted signature events such as the Hai Phong Chef Contest, the Food Tourism Festival, and the “Red Flamboyant Flower Train” experience tour, adding unique highlights to its tourism offerings.

With strong leadership from local authorities and the active participation of businesses and residents, Hai Phong tourism is entering a new chapter, moving closer to the goal of becoming a major tourism hub.

Hai Phong has so far attracted 15 tourism projects with total investment exceeding 111 trillion VND. Accommodation capacity is growing rapidly, with an expected 17,000 rooms by 2025, 25% higher than in 2020. Notably, the proportion of four- and five-star hotels is rising, meeting the increasing demand for high-quality lodging from both domestic and international visitors.

THANH HOA