January
17.4°C ~ 63°F
8 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
Cat Ba
Cannon Fort
A hilltop fort from the French and American wars, with a 360-degree view of Cat Ba.
- Time needed
- 1 hour
- Entry fee
- 50,000 VND
- Best months
- Sep – Nov
- Best time
- Late afternoon, near sunset
Overview
Cannon Fort stands on a hill above Cat Ba town and was used during the French and American wars. The site has old cannons, tunnels and bunkers, and an observation platform with a 360-degree view over the town, the harbour and the bay.
The climb takes about 15 to 20 minutes on steps from the road, and the view is best near sunset. It is a short activity that fits well in a free afternoon.
Highlights
- Climb to the 360-degree viewpoint
- See the old cannons and bunkers
- Watch sunset over the harbour
- Walk through the tunnels
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Daily, about 8:00 – 17:00 |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | 50,000 VND per adult Children: 20,000 VND Electric car: 50,000 VND |
| Time needed | 1 hour |
| Best time of day | Late afternoon, near sunset |
| Good for | History fans, photographers, couples |
| Accessibility | Steps up the hill; no lift |
| Facilities | Small car park, drinks stall |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Cat Ba by month.
February
17.8°C ~ 64°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
20.8°C ~ 69°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
April
24°C ~ 75°F
11 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
27.2°C ~ 81°F
17 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
June
29.3°C ~ 85°F
18 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
July
29°C ~ 84°F
21 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
August
28.6°C ~ 83°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
September
27.9°C ~ 82°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
October
25.6°C ~ 78°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
November
22.9°C ~ 73°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
December
18.7°C ~ 66°F
6 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
How to get there
From Cat Ba centre
Cannon Fort is about 10 minutes by motorbike or taxi from Cat Ba town. Most visitors ride there, and the last section is a walk on steps.
Tips before you go
- Go in the late afternoon, in cooler air
- Wear shoes with grip
- Bring water for the climb
- Combine with the Hospital Cave in one trip
Location
Cannon Fort, Cat Ba town, Hai Phong
About 3 km from Cat Ba town centre
More attractions in Cat Ba
FAQs
How long is the climb?
About 15 to 20 minutes from the road, on steps.
When is the best time to go?
Late afternoon, when the light is softer and the heat has eased.
Is it worth it?
Yes, for the view and the short history. It is a quick stop and easy to fit with other sights.