Weekend Getaways for Foreign Teachers in Vietnam (from Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang)

Teaching in Vietnam is rewarding, but every now and then, teachers need a break from the busy classrooms and hectic city life. Luckily, Vietnam offers plenty of short trips and weekend getaways that are perfect for recharging. Whether you’re based in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), or Da Nang, here are the top destinations you can escape to on weekends.

Weekend Getaways from Hanoi

1. Ha Long Bay

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is only a few hours from Hanoi and ideal for a weekend cruise among limestone islands and emerald waters. Foreign teachers can enjoy kayaking, cave exploration, and fresh seafood.

• Travel time: 2.5–3 hours by bus or car
• Highlights: Overnight cruise, kayaking, seafood dining

2. Sapa

For those who love mountains and cooler weather, Sapa offers terraced rice fields, trekking routes, and ethnic minority villages. It’s a perfect retreat for teachers who enjoy hiking and cultural immersion.

• Travel time: 5–6 hours by bus/train
• Highlights: Trekking, homestays, mountain views

3. Ninh Binh

Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh features dramatic limestone cliffs, temples, and peaceful rivers. A weekend here is great for cycling, boat rides, and exploring historical sites.

• Travel time: 2 hours by train or bus
• Highlights: Boat rides in Tam Coc, Trang An, Hoa Lu ancient capital
   

Weekend Getaways from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

1. Vung Tau

A coastal city just a short ride away, Vung Tau is a popular escape for teachers seeking sun, sand, and fresh seafood. The beaches are lively, and the seafood markets are perfect for a quick recharge.

• Travel time: 2–2.5 hours by car or bus
• Highlights: Beaches, Christ the King statue, seafood restaurants

2. Mekong Delta (Can Tho)

Teachers looking for a cultural experience can explore the Mekong Delta. Can Tho’s floating markets, river cruises, and homestays offer a glimpse of authentic Vietnamese life.

• Travel time: 3–4 hours by bus
• Highlights: Floating markets, river tours, local cuisine

3. Da Lat

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Da Lat is a refreshing escape from HCMC’s heat. With its cool climate, pine forests, and French villas, it’s perfect for a peaceful weekend.

• Travel time: 6–7 hours by bus or 1 hour by flight
• Highlights: Waterfalls, flower gardens, local coffee culture
   

Weekend Getaways from Da Nang

1. Hoi An

Just 30 minutes away, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage town known for lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes, and a laid-back vibe. Teachers can enjoy a short weekend of history, food, and relaxation.

• Travel time: 30 minutes by car or motorbike
• Highlights: Old town, tailoring shops, street food

2. Hue

For history lovers, Hue offers ancient citadels, royal tombs, and pagodas. It’s a calm and cultural weekend destination just north of Da Nang.

• Travel time: 2–3 hours by train or car
• Highlights: Imperial City, Perfume River, historical sites

3. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

A bit further but worth it, Phong Nha is home to some of the world’s largest caves, including Son Doong and Paradise Cave. Perfect for adventurous teachers who enjoy trekking and cave exploration.

• Travel time: 5–6 hours by car/train
• Highlights: Cave tours, jungle trekking, eco-lodges
   

No matter where you’re based, Vietnam offers endless options for weekend getaways. From relaxing on the beach to exploring mountains and caves, teachers can recharge and return to the classroom refreshed. Teaching in Vietnam isn’t just about work, it’s also about exploring one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in Asia.