Hanoi, Sa Pa, and Ha Long Bay are among the most captivating destinations in northern Vietnam, each offering its own unique autumnal charm. From the plains to the high mountains and the sea, these locations provide an unforgettable experience of Vietnam’s northern beauty.
 

HANOI

Visiting Hanoi in September and October is a feast for the senses, as the city’s autumn skies captivate with their serene beauty. The sunlight is warm and golden, without the intense heat of summer, making it perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant streets. 

Autumn is also the ideal time to savor Hanoi’s seasonal delicacies like green sticky rice (cốm), steamed green sticky rice (xôi cốm), and ripe dracontomelon (sấu chín). Recognizing Hanoi’s allure, CNN has named it one of the top 12 fall destinations in the world.

To fully immerse yourself in Hanoi’s autumn, consider staying at a hotel in the city center. Capella Hanoi on Lê Phụng Hiểu Street stands out as a luxurious choice, boasting three Michelin Guide-recognized restaurants, including Koki, which has earned a Michelin star for two consecutive years. 

Thanks to its central location, just steps from Tràng Tiền Street and the Hanoi Opera House, visitors can easily stroll through the city, enjoying seasonal street treats like heather chrysanthemum and daisies. A walk through the Old Quarter reveals French colonial architecture, serene lakes, and bustling markets, all contributing to the unique autumn ambiance of Hanoi.
 

HALONG BAY

A 1.5-hour drive from Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination in northern Vietnam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Ha Long Bay is home to thousands of limestone islands and caves, rich with cultural and historical significance. 

Autumn is the perfect time to visit, with cool, refreshing weather that enhances the experience. A cruise through the bay offers breathtaking views and visits to iconic spots like Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Grotto (Heavenly Palace), Fighting Cocks Islet, and Titop Beach. Another way to admire Ha Long Bay is via the Queen Cable Car at Sun World Ha Long, providing panoramic views from Ba Deo Hill.
 

SAPA

For adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts, Sa Pa in Lào Cai Province, about a five-hour drive from Hanoi, is a destination not to be missed. 

Sa Pa’s autumn is often called the “golden season” or “rice ripening season”, as the terraced rice fields turn a shimmering gold, creating a stunning landscape. Visitors can take the Fansipan cable car for sweeping views of the Muong Hoa Valley, the golden terraces, and the vibrant four-season flower fields. 

As autumn transitions to winter, Sa Pa often becomes enveloped in a sea of clouds, creating a mystical scene atop Fansipan Mountain. This cloud-hunting season, starting in November, is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

Nestled at the foot of Fansipan Mountain near the cable car station, Ban May village is home to seven ethnic groups. Weekend visitors can witness unique traditional customs and ceremonies, such as the Red Dao wedding, the H’mong “wife-stealing” tradition, and the peace-praising festival of the Giay people.

The "Ban May Golden Season" Festival, held from August 17 to September 1, celebrates the harvest with performances by ethnic groups from Sa Pa, Điện Biên, and beyond. Other festivals, such as Kho Gia Gia, Then Kin Pang, and New Com Tet, are held every weekend, offering tourists the chance to engage in traditional activities like pounding rice cakes, making green rice, and sampling local delicacies. For more detailed information, our Sapa travel guide will be a useful resource for your upcoming trip to this enchanting town.