Sights To See On Haiphong Shore Excursions Day
On a Haiphong shore excursions day, the best sights are packed into a compact city centre: the French colonial Opera House, Tam Bac Lake, the City Post Office, peaceful pagodas, the old swing bridge with its murals, busy markets and some of the best food in northern Vietnam. Most of them sit within a short ride of each other, so even a short port call can feel full and rewarding.
In this guide, the Haiphong Adventure team picks the sights that work best for cruise passengers, explains how long to spend at each one and suggests easy ways to link them together. Opening hours and access can change, especially around holidays, so check locally on the day (updated October 2026).
Haiphong Opera House
The Opera House is the best known landmark in Haiphong and the natural first stop on any shore excursion. Built during the French colonial period in the early 20th century, it has a grand facade with tall columns, a central dome and elegant details.
- Time needed. 15 to 30 minutes for photos around the square.
- Good to know. The interior usually opens only for events, so most visitors admire it from outside.
- Photo tip. Stand back across the square to fit the whole facade in your frame.
The square in front often hosts events and is lively in the evening, but it is pleasant to see at any time of day.
Le Chan Statue Square
Just a short walk from the Opera House, the large statue of Le Chan honours the female general traditionally credited with founding the first settlement that grew into Haiphong. Locals gather here to relax, and the open square is a nice place to understand the city’s pride in its history.
Tam Bac Lake And The Old Centre
Tam Bac Lake is a long, narrow lake in the heart of the city, lined with trees, benches and walkways. It is a calm place to stretch your legs after the transfer from the port and watch everyday local life.
- Time needed. 20 to 40 minutes for a relaxed stroll.
- Nearby. Busy trading streets and markets close to the Tam Bac River.
- Seasonal bonus. In early summer, red flamboyant trees bloom around the city.
For a wider look at the city’s culture, see our guide to cultural things to do in Haiphong.
>>> Cultural Insights From A Haiphong City Tour Day
City Post Office And Colonial Streets
The yellow City Post Office is one of the most attractive colonial buildings in Haiphong and is still in use. The surrounding streets have more French-era buildings with shutters, balconies and high ceilings, mixed with modern Vietnamese shophouses.
- Time needed. 10 to 20 minutes.
- Fun idea. Send a postcard home from inside if the post office is open.
- Also nearby. The Haiphong Museum, set in a colonial building, if you want a deeper history stop.
Recommended tour
The Haiphong Street Food and City Tour
See the Opera House, colonial streets and hidden corners, and taste Haiphong’s best street food with a local guide, a perfect fit for a port day.
From $85 per person
Cau Quay Swing Bridge And Mural Street
The old Cau Quay swing bridge is a favourite photo stop. Its iron frame and railway tracks give it a vintage, industrial feel, and the nearby mural street adds bright colour to your photos.
- Time needed. 15 to 30 minutes.
- Safety. Watch for traffic and do not climb on structures.
- Photo tip. Morning light is softer and the area is quieter.
Pagodas And Communal Houses
For a peaceful break from the traffic, visit one of Haiphong’s temples. They show a quieter, spiritual side of the city.
Du Hang Pagoda
One of the oldest and most admired pagodas in Haiphong, known for its carved wood, stone details and tranquil courtyards.
Hang Kenh Communal House
A traditional village communal house famous for its intricate wood carvings, including many dragon motifs. It is a fine example of northern Vietnamese craftsmanship.
Linh Quang Pagoda
A smaller pagoda with a striking red-roofed bell tower that makes a calm, photogenic stop.
- Dress code. Cover shoulders and knees.
- Etiquette. Speak softly, do not point your feet at altars and ask before photographing worshippers.
>>> Free Things To Do In Haiphong For Budget Travel
Cam River Promenade
The riverside promenade along the Cam River offers open views, fresh air and a look at the illuminated Hoang Van Thu Bridge. It is a good place to slow down before heading back to the port.
Markets And Street Food
No Haiphong shore excursion is complete without food. Busy markets and street stalls show the real rhythm of the city.
| Dish | What it is | When to try |
|---|---|---|
| Banh da cua | Red rice noodles in crab broth | Lunch |
| Nem cua be | Square crab spring rolls | Lunch or dinner |
| Banh mi cay | Small spicy baguette sticks | Snack on the go |
| Banh beo | Steamed rice cakes with toppings | Afternoon snack |
| Ca phe sua da | Iced coffee with condensed milk | Anytime |
Want to taste more? My Haiphong street food adventure shares favourite dishes, and the DIY Haiphong food tour map helps you find them.
Suggested Route For A Port Day
- Opera House and Le Chan statue. Start with the big landmarks.
- City Post Office. A quick stop for colonial architecture.
- Tam Bac Lake. Stroll along the water and the nearby streets.
- Lunch. Banh da cua or nem cua be at a local spot.
- Cau Quay bridge and murals. Fun photos by the river.
- Pagoda or communal house. A peaceful final stop.
- Coffee and return. Head back with plenty of buffer before all aboard.
If you prefer to keep it short, our half-day Haiphong tour itinerary covers the essentials. Many cruise guests also join one of our haiphong tours so a local handles the timing.
>>> Haiphong To Halong Bay For Cruise Passengers
Frequently Asked Questions About Sights On Haiphong Shore Excursions
What are the must-see sights in Haiphong for cruise passengers?
The Opera House, Le Chan statue, Tam Bac Lake, the City Post Office, Cau Quay swing bridge and a local pagoda are the easiest highlights to combine.
Can I see the main sights in half a day?
Yes. The central sights are close together, so three to four hours in the city is enough for the highlights and a quick lunch.
Can I go inside the Opera House?
Usually only during events. Most visitors enjoy the facade and the square outside.
What should I wear for temple visits?
Light clothing that covers shoulders and knees, plus comfortable shoes for walking.
Is Haiphong easy to explore without a guide?
Yes for the main sights, but a local guide saves time, helps with food choices and keeps you on schedule.
Enjoy The Best Of Haiphong In One Day
Haiphong rewards cruise visitors with grand colonial buildings, peaceful temples, colourful street life and unforgettable food, all within easy reach. Pick your favourite sights, keep an eye on the clock and enjoy a real taste of northern Vietnam.
If you would like a local guide from Haiphong Adventure to show you these sights on your port day, just send us a message.
WhatsApp, Viber, WeChat: +84(0)934.555.001
KakaoTalk, Line ID: haiphongadventure
