As autumn paints the landscape with brilliant hues of orange, gold and red, getting on a fall drive for foliage retreats is the perfect way to take in leaf-peeping in the season’s natural beauty. Autumn is, indeed, a lovely season to enjoy an excellent visit in Northern Vietnam.

From September through November, the weather is mild, and the humidity is minimal, creating a pleasant atmosphere to explore the country’s gorgeous scenery. There’s plenty to see and do during this time of year, from experiencing the brilliant foliage to participating in cultural festivities.

Ha Noi

The fact that Ha Noi and northern Vietnam have the best weather at this time of year. Autumn in Ha Noi is nothing short of magical. Enjoy the leaf-peeping by strolling through the streets around West Lake, Hoan Kiem Lake, and be ready to be captivated by the scent of Blackboard tree blossom in the air. Venture down the Old Quarter to discover local delicacies like young rice flakes, green rice cakes, guavas, pickled dracontomelum, persimmons, West Lake shrimp cakes,...

Have a break by sitting in an open-air coffee shop and enjoying a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee as you soak in the cool breeze.

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh has plenty to offer. A boat ride along the Ngo Dong River to admire the golden hue of rice terraces and majestic mountains as the magnificent background. A fall drive will take you to the historic Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled in the mountains and hike the 500 steps of Mua Cave to the peak of Mua Mountain, see the full Ninh Binh majestic nature with your own eyes from the height.

Ha Giang

Dong Van Karst Plateau during October and November is adorned with whitey and pinky buckwheat flowers. Riding a motorbike through mountain passes to witness beautiful sights, explore the homes of people of many ethnicities, learn their typical living styles… Don’t miss the boat ride on the Nho Que River; feel the cool breeze and mirror the crystal clear water. Passing by the ethnic minority market to enjoy local delicacies made from buckwheat, sticky rice, roasted moss, buffalo jerky,...

Sa Pa

Visitors will fall in love with Sa Pa, its rice terraces, hill tribes, and Mount Fansipan. Some 1,600 meters above sea level in Lao Cai province in northern Vietnam, Sapa was always difficult to get to for most, other than the ethnic minority tribes that built rice terraces into its hillsides. Especially in September, when the valley is covered in golden rice fields. A trek to the peak of Fansipan will reward you with breathtaking views.

Moc Chau

Moc Chau is a beautiful destination located in Son La Province. Its breathtaking natural landscape, refreshing climate and vibrant cultural heritage have captured many visitors’ hearts. Moc Chau provides a delightful experience for all travelers who are fascinated by nature, trekking and hiking. During autumn, the landscape transforms into vibrant shades of yellow and red as the leaves change colors, creating a picturesque setting for wonderful photography. For those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature, head to the lush green fields of tea hills and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea. With numerous cascading waterfalls, pine forests, and outdoor activities like trekking and paragliding, Moc Chau is a captivating destination that illustrates the charm and allure of Northern Vietnam.