Travel to Vietnam: The Definitive Guide

1. Hanoi

Vietnam’s 1,000-year-old capital blends ancient temples with French colonial charm and modern energy.

Old Quarter

Hanoi’s historic heart features 36 guild streets, each traditionally dedicated to specific trades. Narrow lanes overflow with shops, street food vendors, and daily life. Don’t miss Hang Bac (Silver Street) and Hang Gai (Silk Street).

For the most authentic experience, consider the Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience, where local guides reveal secret spots and share cultural insights that most tourists miss.

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

The spiritual heart of Hanoi, this picturesque lake houses the tiny Ngoc Son Temple on an island reached by the iconic red Huc Bridge. Visit early morning to see locals practicing tai chi or late evening when families stroll around the water.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum

Pay respects to Vietnam’s revolutionary leader at this imposing marble mausoleum. Nearby, the museum chronicles Ho Chi Minh’s life through photographs and artifacts. Dress modestly and observe the solemn atmosphere.

Temple of Literature

Vietnam’s first national university, established in 1070, showcases beautiful traditional architecture and courtyard gardens. Stone stelae record the names of scholars who passed imperial examinations.

French Quarter

Contrasting with the bustling Old Quarter, this elegant district features tree-lined boulevards and colonial buildings. The Opera House and St. Joseph’s Cathedral showcase French architectural influence.

The Coffee, History, and Architecture of the French Quarter Tour offers fascinating insights into this period of Vietnam’s history while enjoying the area’s famous coffee culture.

Food Experience

Hanoi offers Vietnam’s most distinctive street food scene. Sample pho (beef noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and egg coffee.

Food lovers should consider the Eat Like A Local- Hanoi Street Food & Hidden Path tour to discover authentic dishes in places only locals know. For those with dietary restrictions, the Hanoi Vegetarian Street Food Tour & Stories provides delicious alternatives with vegan options available.

War History Sites

History enthusiasts should visit Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs) and the Vietnam Military History Museum. For deeper insights into the country’s complex past, the Stories from Vietnam War at Not-to-go-alone Areas tour visits significant sites while sharing perspectives rarely found in guidebooks.

Families With Children

Families will enjoy the weekend Walking Street around Hoan Kiem Lake, the puppet shows at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, and the Train Street experience. The Kids Friendly Hanoi Old Quarter Tour specifically caters to young travelers with interactive activities and child-appropriate explanations of Vietnamese culture.

2. Ha Long Bay

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features thousands of limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald waters. Ha Long Bay ranks among Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.

Cruising Options

• Day Cruise: Covers main highlights but feels rushed (3-4 hours on bay)
• Overnight Cruise (1 night): Good balance of activities and relaxation
• Extended Cruise (2-3 nights): Best experience, reaches less-visited areas like Bai Tu Long Bay
• Luxury options: 5-star amenities, gourmet dining, private balconies
• Budget options: Basic cabins, standard meals, shared facilities

Must-See Attractions

• Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave: Massive limestone cavern with impressive formations
• Ti Top Island: Climb 400 steps for panoramic bay views, small beach for swimming
• Luon Cave: Small cave explored by kayak or bamboo boat
• Cua Van Floating Village: Traditional fishing community
• Dau Go Cave: Known for colorful stalactites and stalagmites

Activities

• Kayaking: Paddle through caves and around karsts
• Swimming: At designated beaches (seasonal)
• Squid fishing: Evening activity on most boats
• Tai chi: Morning sessions on upper decks
• Cooking demonstrations: Learn to make spring rolls

Practical Tips

• Book through reputable agencies to ensure safety standards
• Expect to pay $80-250 USD for overnight cruises (price reflects quality)
• Best weather: October-April (though December-February can be foggy)
• Bring motion sickness medication if sensitive
• The 4-hour drive from Hanoi can be broken up with rest stops

3. Sapa

Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, Sapa offers Vietnam’s most spectacular rural landscapes and cultural experiences with ethnic minority villages.

Rice Terraces

The terraced rice fields around Sapa rank among Asia’s most beautiful agricultural landscapes. Visit in late May-June (planting) or September-October (harvest) for the most vibrant colors.

Trekking

• Easy treks: Cat Cat Village (2-3 hours round trip)
• Moderate treks: Lao Chai and Ta Van (1 day)
• Challenging treks: Fansipan summit (2-3 days) or Y Linh Ho (2 days)
• Multi-day options with homestays in minority villages

Ethnic Minority Cultures

• Black Hmong: Known for indigo clothing and silver jewelry
• Red Dao: Recognized by distinctive red headdresses
• Tay: Living in wooden stilt houses in valleys
• Giay: Known for traditional weaving skills
• Visit local markets (Bac Ha Sunday Market is the most famous)

Fansipan Mountain

Mainland Southeast Asia’s highest peak (3,143m) offers challenging trekking or a convenient cable car option. The summit area features Buddhist temples and stunning views on clear days.

Practical Tips

• Altitude: 1,500m brings cooler temperatures year-round
• December-February: Cold (5-10°C) with occasional snow
• Prepare for rain year-round, especially June-August
• Book homestays through reputable agencies for authentic experiences
• Expect persistent but friendly vendor approaches in town

4. Ninh Binh

Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh features limestone karsts rising from rice fields rather than water. This emerging destination offers spectacular scenery without the crowds.

Tam Coc

Take a rowboat journey along the Ngo Dong River, passing through three natural limestone caves and between towering karsts. Tam Coc’s landscapes are most beautiful during rice harvests (May-June and September-October).

Trang An

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a more tranquil boat experience than Tam Coc. The route passes through caves, temples, and filming locations from “Kong: Skull Island.”

Hang Mua Peak

Climb 500 steps for the region’s most breathtaking viewpoint. The dragon-themed staircase leads to panoramic views over Tam Coc’s river and karst landscape.

Bich Dong Pagoda

This three-tiered pagoda built into a mountainside dates from the 15th century. Each level offers increasingly impressive views over the surrounding landscape.

Practical Tips

• Base yourself in Tam Coc or Ninh Binh City (more amenities)
• Easy day trip from Hanoi (2 hours) or worth 2-3 days exploration
• Rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore independently
• Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour crowds
• Combined tickets available for multiple attractions

5. Hue

Vietnam’s imperial capital (1802-1945) maintains a regal atmosphere with its UNESCO-listed citadel, royal tombs, and distinctive cuisine.

Imperial Citadel

This massive complex housed Vietnam’s last royal dynasty, the Nguyen emperors. The walled fortress contains the Purple Forbidden City, royal residences, temples, and gardens. Many structures show damage from the 1968 Tet Offensive, while others have been beautifully restored.

Royal Tombs

The Nguyen emperors built elaborate final resting places outside the city:

• Khai Dinh Tomb: Elaborate concrete and glass mosaic designs
• Tu Duc Tomb: Peaceful grounds with lakes and pavilions
• Minh Mang Tomb: Symmetrical design with beautiful gardens
• Each tomb reflects the personality of the emperor it commemorates

Thien Mu Pagoda

This seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River has become Hue’s iconic symbol. The temple features beautiful grounds and houses the car driven by the monk who self-immolated in Saigon in 1963.

Dong Ba Market

Experience local life at this bustling market offering everything from food to handicrafts. Try Hue specialties like banh khoai (savory pancakes) from food vendors.

Perfume River

Take a dragon boat cruise along this poetic waterway. Evening cruises often include traditional folk music performances.

Practical Tips

• Allocate at least two days to explore properly
• Hire a driver for visiting the scattered tombs
• Visit the Citadel early morning to avoid heat and crowds
• Try Hue’s unique royal cuisine, including bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup)
• February-April offers the most pleasant weather

6. Hoi An

This exquisitely preserved ancient trading port charms visitors with lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and a magical atmosphere.

Ancient Town

Hoi An’s UNESCO-protected Old Town features wooden-fronted shophouses, ancestral homes, and Chinese clan halls dating from the 15th-19th centuries. The car-free streets make exploration a pleasure. Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the old merchant houses like Tan Ky House.

Tailoring

Hoi An’s 400+ tailor shops can create custom clothing in 24-48 hours. Quality and prices vary widely – seek recommendations, be specific about materials, and allow time for alterations.

Countryside and Beaches

• Tra Que Herb Village: Organic gardens supplying Hoi An’s restaurants
• An Bang Beach: Clean sands and seafood restaurants (5km from town)
• Cam Thanh coconut palm forest: Basket boat experiences
• Nearby rice fields: Cycling and photography opportunities

Culinary Experiences

Hoi An offers distinctive local specialties:

• Cao lau: Noodles with pork and greens (only authentic in Hoi An)
• White rose dumplings: Delicate shrimp dumplings
• Banh mi: Try Madam Khanh (“The Banh Mi Queen”)
• Cooking classes including market tours

Lantern Festival

On the 14th day of each lunar month, Hoi An turns off electric lights and illuminates the town with colorful lanterns. Visitors release floating lanterns on the Thu Bon River.

Practical Tips

• Stay in the Ancient Town for atmosphere, Cam Pho for value, or An Bang for beach access
• Purchase the Old Town ticket (120,000 VND) for entry to historic sites
• February-April and September-October offer the best weather
• Flooding can occur October-December (contributing to the atmospheric feel)
• Bicycle rental provides the ideal transportation for exploring

7. Da Nang

Vietnam’s fastest-growing city offers beautiful beaches, mountain scenery, and easy access to nearby cultural sites.

My Khe Beach

This 30km stretch of white sand, known as “China Beach” during the American War, offers excellent swimming and surfing conditions. Beachfront resorts range from budget to ultra-luxury.

Marble Mountains

These five limestone and marble hills contain caves, tunnels, buddhist sanctuaries, and viewpoints. The largest, Thuy Son (Water Mountain), features impressive cave pagodas and panoramic city views.

Ba Na Hills

This mountaintop resort complex features the famous Golden Bridge (held by giant stone hands), a replica French village, and various amusement park attractions. The cable car ride offers spectacular views.

Son Tra Peninsula

Also called Monkey Mountain, this forested peninsula provides scenic drives, hidden beaches, and views of the massive Lady Buddha statue. The rare red-shanked douc langurs make their home here.

Dragon Bridge

Da Nang’s iconic dragon-shaped bridge breathes fire and water on weekend evenings, creating a spectacular show.

Hai Van Pass

Made famous by Top Gear, this scenic mountain pass between Da Nang and Hue offers breathtaking coastal views. Travel by motorcycle, car, or train.

Practical Tips

• Use Da Nang as a comfortable base for exploring Hoi An and Hue
• Direct international flights make it an easy entry point
• May-August offers the best beach weather
• Grab bikes and taxis provide easy transportation
• The city bridges illuminate with colorful displays each evening

8. Nha Trang

Vietnam’s most developed beach destination offers a beautiful bay, offshore islands, and a lively atmosphere.

Beaches

The 6km main beach features fine white sand and clear water with a developed promenade lined with hotels and restaurants. Quieter beaches include Bai Dai Beach (30 minutes south) and Doc Let Beach (1 hour north).

Island Hopping

Daily boat tours visit four islands in Nha Trang Bay:

• Hon Mun: Best snorkeling and diving with coral reefs
• Hon Tam: Beach resort with water sports
• Hon Mot: Floating bar and seafood restaurants
• Tri Nguyen Aquarium on Hon Mieu Island

Po Nagar Cham Towers

These well-preserved 7th-12th century towers showcase the Hindu-influenced Cham civilization that once ruled central Vietnam. The hilltop location offers city views.

Mud Baths

Several spa complexes around Nha Trang offer therapeutic mud baths, mineral springs, and spa treatments at reasonable prices.

Vinpearl Land

This island theme park and resort complex is reached by the world’s longest over-water cable car. Attractions include water parks, an aquarium, and amusement rides.

Practical Tips

• February-September offers the best weather
• October-December brings heavy rainfall
• The city has a significant Russian presence with signs and menus in Russian
• Book island trips through your hotel or reputable agencies
• Seafood restaurants along Tran Phu Street offer fresh catches

9. Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam’s largest city (still called Saigon by locals) pulses with energy, commerce, and reminders of its pivotal role in modern Vietnamese history.

District 1 Highlights

The downtown core contains most major attractions:

• Notre Dame Cathedral: Neo-Romanesque cathedral from the French era
• Central Post Office: Gothic masterpiece designed by Gustave Eiffel
• Reunification Palace: Site of South Vietnam’s surrender in 1975
• War Remnants Museum: Powerful exhibitions on the Vietnam War
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Pedestrian boulevard with people-watching

Cu Chi Tunnels

This vast network of underground tunnels 70km northwest of the city served as Viet Cong headquarters during the American War. Tours explain guerrilla warfare tactics and let visitors crawl through widened sections of the tunnels.

Ben Thanh Market

The city’s most famous market sells everything from souvenirs to street food. Practice bargaining skills here but expect higher prices than less touristy markets like Binh Tay in Chinatown.

Modern Vietnam

Experience contemporary Vietnamese life:

• Bitexco Tower Skydeck: City views from 49th floor
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Gathering place for young Vietnamese
• Craft beer scene: Pasteur Street and Heart of Darkness breweries
• Contemporary art: Galleries in converted colonial buildings

Day Trips

• Mekong Delta: Day tours to My Tho/Ben Tre (better as overnight trip)
• Can Gio Mangrove Forest: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
• Vung Tau: Beach escape (2 hours by car or hydrofoil)

Practical Tips

• Use the name “Ho Chi Minh City” in official contexts, but many locals still say “Saigon”
• The rainy season (May-November) brings brief but intense daily downpours
• District 1 contains most tourist amenities but try District 3 for local atmosphere
• The city is relatively safe but watch for motorbike bag-snatching
• Use metered taxis or Grab for reliable transportation

10. Mekong Delta

Vietnam’s “rice bowl” offers a water world of floating markets, fruit orchards, and rural canal life.

Floating Markets

• Cai Rang (near Can Tho): Largest wholesale floating market, best experienced at dawn
• Phong Dien: Smaller, more authentic market with less tourism
• Cai Be: Convenient for day trips from Ho Chi Minh City
• Visit between 5-7am for authentic trading activity

Can Tho

The delta’s largest city makes the best base for exploration:

• Take early morning boat trips to floating markets
• Visit fruit orchards and cottage industry workshops
• Explore Binh Thuy Ancient House with its colonial architecture
• Stroll along Ninh Kieu Wharf at sunset

Ben Tre and Tra Vinh

• Ben Tre: Known for coconut production and peaceful waterways
• Tra Vinh: Home to beautiful Khmer pagodas and distinct culture
• Both offer authentic homestay experiences

Chau Doc

This border town near Cambodia features cultural diversity:

• Floating villages of ethnic Vietnamese and Cham communities
• Sam Mountain for sunset views over the delta plains
• Tra Su Cajuput Forest with boat rides through flooded forest
• Ba Chua Xu Temple, an important pilgrimage site

Practical Tips

• Overnight trips offer more authentic experiences than day tours from Ho Chi Minh City
• December-April brings dry weather and fruit harvest season
• Bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a hat
• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases for rural areas where English is limited
• Consider a multi-day trip ending in Cambodia via riverboat to Phnom Penh

11. Phu Quoc Island

Vietnam’s largest island offers idyllic beaches, national park wilderness, and developing tourism infrastructure.

Beaches

• Bai Sao (Star Beach): White powder sand and shallow turquoise water
• Long Beach: 20km stretch with sunset views and resort development
• Ong Lang Beach: Relaxed atmosphere with boutique resorts
• Ganh Dau: Secluded northern beach with views of Cambodia

Phu Quoc National Park

This protected area covers more than half the island:

• Hiking trails through primary rainforest
• Diverse wildlife including hornbills and macaques
• Mountain streams and waterfalls (best in rainy season)
• Guided tours available from local operators

Attractions

• Vinpearl Land: Theme park and safari
• Cable car to Hon Thom (Pineapple Island): World’s longest sea cable car
• Fish sauce factories: Learn about the island’s famous export
• Pepper plantations: Phu Quoc produces high-quality black pepper
• Ham Ninh fishing village: Seafood restaurants on stilts

Practical Tips

• November-April offers ideal weather (dry season)
• May-October brings rain but lower prices and fewer crowds
• Direct international flights connect from major Asian cities
• Motorbike rental provides the best transportation
• The island is rapidly developing – visit soon for more natural experiences

12. Mui Ne

This coastal resort area offers excellent kitesurfing conditions, unique sand dunes, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Sand Dunes

• White Sand Dunes: Vast desert-like landscape, best at sunrise
• Red Sand Dunes: Smaller dunes near town, popular for sunset
• Fairy Stream: Canyon-like formation with red and white sandstone
• Quad bikes and sand sledding available at both dune areas

Beaches and Water Sports

• Mui Ne Beach: 15km of palm-fringed beach with steady winds
• World-class kitesurfing and windsurfing (November-March)
• Kitesurfing schools offering lessons for beginners
• Swimming conditions vary with strong currents in places

Fishing Village

The original Mui Ne fishing village features colorful boats and morning fish markets. Photographers will appreciate the early morning activity as boats return with their catches.

Practical Tips

• November-April offers dry weather and reliable winds for kitesurfing
• The area experiences less rainfall than other parts of Vietnam
• Resort development stretches along 15km of coastline
• Public buses connect from Ho Chi Minh City (5 hours)
• Grab is not available – use taxis or motorbike taxis

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

For travelers seeking less-visited places, Vietnam offers numerous hidden gems.

Ha Giang Loop

This remote northern mountainous province offers Vietnam’s most spectacular scenery:

• 350km motorcycle loop through dramatic limestone mountains
• Ethnic minority villages of Hmong, Dao, and Tay people
• Ma Pi Leng Pass – Vietnam’s most breathtaking road
• Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark (UNESCO Global Geopark)
• Best visited April-May or September-October

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

This UNESCO site contains the world’s largest caves:

• Son Doong: World’s largest cave (limited expensive tours)
• Paradise Cave: Accessible cave with spectacular formations
• Phong Nha Cave: Boat journey through river cave
• Dark Cave: Adventure experience with mud baths and zip lines
• Jungle trekking and rural homestays available

Con Dao Islands

This remote archipelago offers Vietnam’s best beaches and diving:

• Former prison island with historical significance
• Pristine beaches with few visitors
• Sea turtle nesting sites (May-October)
• Excellent snorkeling and diving conditions
• National park covering most of the archipelago
• Reached by flight from Ho Chi Minh City

Mai Chau

This peaceful valley in northwestern Vietnam provides:

• Traditional White Thai stilt house villages
• Beautiful rice terraces and mountain scenery
• Homestay experiences with local families
• Cycling through rural villages and farmland
• Excellent alternative to more touristic Sapa
• Easy weekend trip from Hanoi (3-4 hours)

Practical Tips for Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

• Allow extra time for transportation and unexpected changes
• Bring cash as ATMs may be limited or nonexistent
• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases as English is less common
• Research weather patterns carefully for seasonal roads
• Consider hiring local guides to support communities and gain cultural insights