Hai Phong to Bac Giang Road Trip Guide

Vietnam’s National Highway 10 (QL10) runs 100 kilometers from Hai Phong’s port to Bac Giang city, linking the Red River Delta to the northeastern highlands. The route, fully paved since 2020, carries significant freight traffic between the industrial zones of Dinh Vu and Quang Chau.

Before planning your drive, note that the NH10 corridor cuts through the Kinh Mon geological formation, a karstic plateau known for its limestone caves and hot springs. The region’s clay soil turns slippery during the monsoon, so summer rain can affect traction.

Expect to spend about 2.5 to 3 hours in total, depending on traffic and stops. The route’s flat-to-hilly terrain offers a mix of industrial and agricultural views.

About 30 km from Hai Phong, the Phu Long Hot Springs (coordinates: 21.08°N, 106.55°E) offer a natural sulfur bath, open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (entry 50,000 VND). Nearby, the Con Son-Kiep Bac complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, features 12th-century pagodas and the tomb of General Tran Hung Dao.

For family stops, the Chi Linh Star Eco-Park (25 km before Bac Giang) has a playground and petting zoo, plus picnic areas. The park allows leashed dogs on its perimeter paths. Feeding animals is restricted to purchased feed (10,000 VND per cup).

Local markets, such as the morning market in Que Vo, sell fresh lychees from the Luc Ngan orchards (in season from late May to June). The NH10 passes through several craft villages, including Dong Ky woodcarving village, where artisans produce furniture and sculptures using traditional methods.

To discover more hidden gems on this route, refer to this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Fuel prices along NH10 in 2025 average 24,500 VND/liter for gasoline, with stations every 15–20 km. The 100 km trip consumes roughly 8 liters for a standard car, costing approximately 200,000 VND. Tolls apply only if you use the newer Ho Chi Minh Road extension (QL4C), totaling 35,000 VND for passenger cars.

Speed limits vary: 80 km/h on most NH10, 60 km/h through towns like Pha Lai, and 40 km/h near schools. Authorities enforce regulations with fixed cameras and occasional mobile patrols, especially at the Hai Phong exit.

• E5 gasoline is widely available; diesel at larger stations only.
• No parking fees at rest stops; payment is by purchase at the attached kiosk.
• Always carry cash because many rural fuel stations do not accept cards.

NH10 is a two-lane undivided highway with frequent intersections; always watch for motorbikes crossing without warning. The weather shifts from humid coastal air to drier inland conditions, with visibility dropping in October’s fog. Year-round, the average temperature hovers around 25°C, but winter months can be as low as 10°C.

For child suitability, there are no dedicated child facilities except at Chi Linh Star Eco-Park and the Tuan Chau water park (1 hour off-route). When traveling with children, pack snacks and entertainment, as restaurants along the route are basic.

Pet-friendly rules: most restaurants disallow pets indoors, but the rest stops at Km 25 and Km 68 have shaded outdoor areas where animals may stay on leashes. Always clean up after your pet.

To manage fatigue legally, drivers must rest every 4 hours. Take a break at the My Dinh rest area (Km 40) or the Tu Son café (Km 80), both with ample parking and clean washrooms. More frequent stops are advised during the late afternoon when fog and sun glare increase.

Hidden off-route spots include the Thanh Mai Pagoda (3 km off the road) and the Cam Giang lake (6 km detour) for a quiet picnic. These are not marked on most maps, so use GPS or ask locals.