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October marks the start of autumn in northern Vietnam, bringing cool, fresh air and a gentle atmosphere - the ideal time for travel and exploration. Below are five recommended destinations perfect for discovering the most beautiful season of the year.
Stroll through Hanoi, where autumn is called 'Asia's most beautiful'
Recently, Time Out listed Hanoi as one of the best destinations in Asia to enjoy autumn foliage, alongside renowned locations such as Nami Island (South Korea), Kyoto (Japan), and Jiuzhaigou (China). Hanoi was the only Vietnamese representative on the list.
In October, visitors to Hanoi can wander through the Old Quarter, soaking in the cool autumn air while admiring streets lined with golden and red leaves. Hang Ma Street becomes particularly festive during the Mid-Autumn Festival, offering an ideal photo backdrop.
Beyond the city center, visitors can take tours to Hanoi's surrounding traditional villages, such as Duong Lam ancient village, Bat Trang pottery village, Ha Thai lacquer village, Chuong conical hat village, and Quang Phu Cau incense village.
Don’t miss tasting seasonal specialties like green rice flakes, green rice sticky rice, and ripe dracontomelon.
Marvel at Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang)
In 2024, Travel + Leisure magazine named Ban Gioc one of the 21 most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
The best time to see Ban Gioc in full splendor is October, when the waterfall flows strongly with foamy white torrents, and its emerald waters appear vibrant under the autumn sun.
On October 4, the Ban Gioc tourist area will host a cultural exchange program featuring performances and tourism promotions.
Visitors can also explore local life and cuisine, along with nearby attractions such as Nguom Ngao Cave, Pac Bo Cave, Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda, and the stone village of Khuoi Ky.
Chase clouds and wildflowers at Ta Chi Nhu (Lao Cai)
Standing at 2,979 meters above sea level, Ta Chi Nhu is among the most accessible peaks for hikers, with relatively easy trails suitable even for less experienced trekkers.
In September and October, the mountain becomes a hotspot for “cloud hunters” and fans of the chi pau flower (also known as “dragon grass”). This wildflower blooms in dreamy purple shades across the ridges, adding to the mountain’s mystique.
Admire buckwheat flowers on the Suoi Thau plateau (Tuyen Quang)
October is the beginning of buckwheat flower season in Tuyen Quang, an area formerly part of Ha Giang.
Suoi Thau plateau is among the most popular spots in early autumn, featuring poetic landscapes of green corn and rice fields, misty air, and mountains blanketed in clouds. Buckwheat flowers begin to bloom in delicate pinks and whites, completing the picture.
At an altitude of over 1,200 meters above sea level, the air here is crisp and clean, making it an ideal destination for rest and rejuvenation.
Retreat to the serene coastal paradise of Co To
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