Cam Pha

Cẩm Phả is a port city in the Red River Delta region of northern Vietnam. Its name (Chữ Hán: 锦普) means "splendor and spaciousness." With a population of about 190,000, it is the second-largest city in Quảng Ninh province and serves as an important industrial and transport hub on the northeastern coast. The city's strategic coastal location made it a target of bombing by US aircraft during the Vietnam War.

Cẩm Phả is historically a coal-mining centre, but it also boasts natural attractions. The non-industrial area of the city is recognised as one of the ten most famous landscapes in Vietnam, featuring scenic coastlines, islands, and cultural heritage sites. The city is divided into the main urban wards and the surrounding Mông Dương area.

The climate is humid subtropical with warm, wet summers and mild, dry winters. The best time to visit is autumn (September–November) or spring (March–April) for pleasant temperatures and lower rainfall.

By Plane

Vân Đồn International Airport (VDO IATA) is the nearest airport, about 20 km from Cẩm Phả. It has domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, plus some international routes. A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs around 200,000–300,000 ₫ and takes about 20–30 minutes.

By Car / Road

Cẩm Phả lies on National Highway 18, about 20 km northeast of Hạ Long and 50 km southwest of Móng Cái. Regular buses run from Hạ Long's Bãi Cháy bus station to Cẩm Phả (30–40 minutes, 30,000–50,000 ₫). From Hanoi, buses to Cẩm Phả depart from Mỹ Đình and Lương Yên stations, taking about 3–4 hours.

The city centre is compact enough to explore on foot, but taxis and xe ôm (motorbike taxis) are readily available for reaching farther sites such as Rều Island. Grab operates in the city. Motorbike rental is available for around 150,000 ₫ per day.

• Cửa Ông Temple: A historic temple where the famous 13th-century general Trần Quốc Trảng from the Trần dynasty is worshipped. An important cultural and pilgrimage site.

• Rều Island (Monkey Island): A scenic island off the Cẩm Phả coast, known for its resident monkey population and beach.

• Thẻ Vàng Island: A small island with golden sand beaches, popular for day trips and swimming.

• Vũng Đục Historical Site: A historical area featuring a grotto and remnants from the mining era.

• Hang Hanh Cave: A natural cave formation accessible from the coast.

• Watch football at Cẩm Phả Stadium: With a 20,000-seat capacity, this is the highest-quality stadium in Quảng Ninh province and hosts local football matches.

• Beach time on Rều Island: Take a boat trip to Rều Island for swimming, walking, and watching monkeys in their natural habitat.

• Coastal promenade walks: The waterfront area offers pleasant views of the bay and passing ships.

• Duc Phuc 2 Restaurant (Group 1, Cam Thanh Ward, +84 333 938 838): A well-regarded Vietnamese seafood restaurant serving fresh catches from the bay.
• Local seafood eateries along the waterfront: Numerous casual spots serve grilled fish, crabs, and squid at reasonable prices.
• Street food stalls: Bánh mì, phở, and bún are available from 20,000–40,000 ₫ in the central market area.

• Trà đá (iced tea): Available everywhere for 3,000–5,000 ₫.
• Bia tươi (draft beer): Local beer is served in small bars and eateries.
• Tap water is not potable; bottled water is readily available.

• Budget: Nhà Nghỉ Thắm Quyên (Mông Dương Ward) — a guesthouse with 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, terrace, garden, and laundry service.
• Mid-range: Several hotels along the main road offer rooms from 300,000–500,000 ₫.
• Upscale: No upscale international chain hotels in the city; luxury accommodation is found in nearby Hạ Long.

The central market in Cẩm Phả sells fresh seafood, local produce, and household goods. Coal souvenirs crafted from local anthracite are a unique memento. The city's Mông Dương ward has a market offering local textiles and daily essentials.

• Hạ Long — 20 km southwest, the gateway to Hạ Long Bay's famous karst seascape.
• Vân Đồn — 30 km northeast, with Vân Đồn International Airport and ferry access to Quan Lạn island.
• Cửa Ông — 5 km north, home to the historic Cửa Ông Temple.
• Uông Bí — 40 km west, gateway to the Yên Tử mountain pilgrimage complex.