Vietnam's reinvention as Southeast Asia's most exciting tourist destination has long since been complete. After wars for the larger part of the 20th century, the country is now a hotspot for foodies, beach bums and thrill-seekers alike. Its capital, Hanoi, has managed to retain its old-style feel despite an economic boom. Its Old Quarter is a riot of delectable food stalls, markets and labyrinthine streets. Ho Chi Minh City serves up a more modern edge, while the UNESCO-protected town of Hoi An has kept its charm despite the swathes of tourists. Vietnam's natural wonders, from Ha Long Bay to the Mekong Delta via the beaches of Da Nang, make it truly magical.
Thing to do in Vietnam
Taste the street food
Whether it’s phở (a traditional noodle soup dish), bánh mì, (a type of sandwich), gỏi cuốn (transparent spring rolls) or bánh bao (steamed buns), searching for the best of Vietnam’s extremely flavoursome food is a highlight.
Cruise along the Mekong
The best way to experience the Mekong is to hop on a boat and travel through the peaceful, narrow waterways. Peer into stilted villages, rice paddies and visit floating markets.
Explore the beaches
With white sand beaches and blue water, Vietnam is home to beaches that easily outshine the likes of Thailand or Indonesia. Check out Phu Quoc Island for idyllic beaches and diving
Visit the world’s largest cave
Han Son Doong is large enough to fit a skyscraper inside it and even has its own weather system. Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, you can visit the cave with a permit.
Can’t miss places in Vietnam
Halong Bay Vietnam
Ha Long Bay
Known for its emerald water and towering limestone karsts and islands, an image of Ha Long Bay is probably the first image that comes to mind when you think of Vietnam. Junk boat tours are very popular here, as well as kayaking and exploring Cát Bà National Park.
Hoi an, Vietnam
Hoi An
While you’re in Hội An, you can stroll over the Japanese Covered Bridge or visit the Cam Nam Village – just a short boat, skip and a jump away. If you need to squeeze in some tanning time, Hội An is a coastal town where you can enjoy a gentle pace. Later, flex your culinary skills and learn about Vietnamese cuisine with a cooking class.
"There are so many highlights of Vietnam it is hard to pick one, but if I were to say the one I talk about the most now it is actually getting a suit made in Hoi An, Vietnam! This city is full of hundreds upon hundreds of tailors and is known as the place to go in the country for getting tailored clothes. Going in for sizing, adjustments, and even more adjustments over a period of several days was, shall we say, an experience and the suit has been well worn in the many years since coming home!
Eat all the things. Vietnam has some of the best food in the world, and while you may not always know what you’re eating, it is almost certainly going to be delicious. If there is a crowd of people and food is involved, buy one (or three)." – Jeremy & Angie
Hanoi - Vietnam
Hanoi
The capital of Vietnam is ideal for exploring the country’s history, from ancient temples and pagodas to colonial buildings and intriguing museums. Take it all in and explore the pagodas, the traces of French-Chinese occupation and navigate your way through the winding streets. If time allows, this is the perfect city to enjoy a cyclo ride.
"In Vietnam, I was fortunate enough to join a bicycle tour that rode partly from Hanoi all the way to Saigon. For me the highlight was riding through tiny villages along the way and meeting locals and eating local foods. I loved seeing the happy, smiling kids who came out to wave at us as we passed. My favorite areas in Vietnam are SaPa and Dalat — a bit off the beaten path and both beautiful!
The main cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh can be intimidating, loud and chaotic. My biggest advice is to get used to people trying to sell you things (bananas, motorbike rides, etc) on the street and just stay friendly yet firm. It can get annoying but it doesn’t pay to be rude. A friendly “No Thank you!” can go a long way, especially when you learn to say it in Vietnamese!"– Lisa
Hue - Vietnam
Hue
Hue is fascinating as the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802 to 1945. Many royal tombs lie here, and a huge attraction is the Imperial Enclosure, which is surrounded by a moat and was subjected to significant damage in previous wars.
Hochiminh city - Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City
This is the bustling, skyscraper-filled part of Vietnam, which has everything you could ever wish for. You’ll find a lot of French influences here, like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and local museums.
Nha Trang - Vietnam
Nha Trang
Vietnam’s most famous and energetic beach resort town, Nha Trang has a beautiful backdrop of rolling hills and features a paradisiacal bay with stunning islands. Explore the coral reefs of Hòn Mun and Hòn Tằm islands or simply relax on the beach, cocktail in hand.
Sapa - Vietnam
Sapa
In northwestern Vietnam, you’ll find Sapa, a mountainous town spilling with culture and overlooking terraced rice fields. Hill tribes make up most of the population here, while tourists use this old French Hill Station as a base for treks.
"Our trek into Sapa where we trekked through the Hoang Lien Son Mountains was by far one of the greatest experiences in Vietnam. Each day felt like we were walking through a National Geographic photo essay as rice terraces soaked with water reflected the sun high in the mountains. It was one of the most beautiful places we’d ever seen. When traveling to Vietnam, go with the flow. It is busy, chaotic and sometimes overwhelming so just relax and be open to new experience. And unless you have a lot of experience on a motorcycle, don’t rent one. Driving is dangerous and in Vietnam, it’s better to leave it to the professionals." – Dave and Deb
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