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Just under an hour’s drive from Hanoi’s city center, Sóc Sơn appears like a gentle symphony, where rolling hills meet still lakes. It’s not only a perfect weekend getaway but also a journey back to nature and the timeless cultural roots of Vietnam. This comprehensive Sóc Sơn travel guide will walk you through seven must-visit destinations, perfect for a day trip or a full weekend reset.
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Step into the Past at Việt Phủ Thành Chương – A Must-See in Your Sóc Sơn Travel Guide
- Find Việt Phủ Thành Chương on the ExoTrails app.
Perched on a small hill in Hiền Ninh Commune, Việt Phủ Thành Chương is a unique architectural complex built by painter Thành Chương. It recreates the traditional Vietnamese cultural space with over 30 ancient-style structures, from stilt houses, communal halls, temples, and pagodas to towers. Visitors can admire rare artifacts, stroll through lotus ponds and ancient wells, and enjoy traditional art performances, a perfect opening note for your Sóc Sơn exploration, as highlighted in the Sóc Sơn travel guide.
Ticket prices:
- Adults: 150,000 VND
- Children, students, and seniors (>65 years old): 120,000 VND
- Children under 110 cm: Free
- Parking: Free
Discover Legends at the Sóc Temple Complex
- Find Sóc Temple Complex on the ExoTrails app.
No Sóc Sơn travel guide is complete without a visit to Đền Gióng, located in Vệ Linh Hamlet, Phù Linh Commune. This sacred site honors Saint Gióng — a legendary hero who defended the country from invaders. The complex includes Hạ Temple, Mẫu Temple, Thượng Temple, and the 85-ton bronze statue of Saint Gióng atop Vệ Linh Mountain. Every year, the Gióng Festival celebrates this legend and is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Camp and Kayak at Đồng Đò Lake
- Find Đồng Đò Lake on the ExoTrails app.
Located in Minh Tân Hamlet, Minh Trí Commune, Đồng Đò Lake is a favorite outdoor destination for camping, kayaking, fishing, and cycling.
Estimated cost:
- Day camping: 25,000 VND/person
- Overnight camping: 50,000 VND/person
Visitors can rent tents, grills, and camping gear to fully enjoy a nature retreat during their Sóc Sơn journey.
Unwind by the Pines at Đồng Quan Lake – A Highlight in Your Sóc Sơn Travel Guide
- Find Đồng Quan Lake on the ExoTrails app.
About 30 km from Hanoi, Đồng Quan Lake lies within the My Hill Eco Zone in Quang Tiến Commune. Surrounded by pine forests and fresh air, it’s a great spot for camping, hiking, and BBQ parties, making it a must-visit destination featured in the Sóc Sơn travel guide.
Reference prices:
- SUP rental: 100,000–150,000 VND/hour
- Free entrance via public trails
- Private camping areas: around 50,000–100,000 VND/person/day depending on included services
Hike Hanoi’s Rooftop: Hàm Lợn Mountain
- Trekking route to Hàm Lợn Mountain on the ExoTrails app.
At 462 meters high, Hàm Lợn Mountain is the tallest peak in Hanoi and a favorite among trekkers and campers. There are two main routes to the top: a gentler trail path (about 2 hours) and a more challenging forest path (3–4 hours). At the foot lies Bàu Lake, perfect for resting or setting up camp, an essential highlight in any Sóc Sơn travel guide.
Local service prices:
- Motorbike parking: 15,000 VND
- Tent rental (2 people): 80,000 VND
- Campfire setup: 150,000 VND
Connect with Nature at Bản Rõm Eco Village
- Find Bản Rõm on the ExoTrails app.
Located in Quang Tiến Commune, Bản Rõm is an eco-tourism site that blends nature, education, and recreation. Visitors can try farming, play folk games, hike, and camp — ideal for families and groups.
Reference prices:
- Ferry ticket: free (only pay ferry fee, no entry ticket)
- Fishing: 20,000 VND/person
- Guided tour: 120,000 VND/person includes visiting fish farms, temples, crab-catching, fishing, and local snacks (chè dừa nước, bánh xèo Năm Não)
- Self-cooking equipment rental: 150,000 VND/table (includes utensils, stove, grill, spices, and cleaning service)
Find Solitude at Chòm Núi Lake (Hoa Sơn Lake) – Hidden Gem in the Sóc Sơn Travel Guide
- Find Chòm Núi Lake on the ExoTrails app.
Also known as Hoa Sơn Lake, this hidden gem lies about an hour from Hanoi. With its pristine and quiet scenery, it’s perfect for those seeking solitude and peace. Visitors can camp freely along the lakeside but should bring full gear, as the area has limited services and weak phone signals – a serene escape often featured in the Sóc Sơn travel guide.
Conclusion
Sóc Sơn isn’t just a quick escape from Hanoi, it’s a journey back to simplicity. From misty lakes and ancient temples to quiet mountains and cozy campsites, every stop whispers the calm rhythm of northern Vietnam’s countryside. We hope this Sóc Sơn travel guide has inspired you to discover the quiet charm waiting just outside the capital.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Sóc Sơn best known for?
Sóc Sơn is best known for being a peaceful nature retreat near Hanoi, famous for Hàm Lợn Mountain, serene lakes like Đồng Đò, and the historic Sóc Temple complex.
2. How far is Sóc Sơn from Hanoi?
Sóc Sơn is located approximately 40 kilometers north of Hanoi’s city center, making it an easy and accessible getaway that takes about an hour by car or motorbike.
3. Is Sóc Sơn good for a family day trip?
Yes, it’s an excellent destination for families, with many kid-friendly spots like Bản Rõm Eco Village, gentle lakeside trails, and cultural sites like Việt Phủ Thành Chương.
4. Can I camp in Sóc Sơn?
Absolutely. Sóc Sơn is one of Hanoi’s most popular camping destinations, with well-known spots around Đồng Đò Lake, Đồng Quan Lake, and Hàm Lợn Mountain.
5. What is the most famous hiking spot in Sóc Sơn?
Hàm Lợn Mountain is the most famous hiking spot, often called the “rooftop of Hanoi,” offering trails for both beginners and more experienced trekkers.
