Vietnam Travel Guide
Visiting Vietnam offers a journey through a land of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene landscapes of Halong Bay, Vietnam offers unforgettable experiences around every corner. Visitors can explore ancient temples, enjoy the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant local markets. No matter what adventure you choose, Vietnam will leave a lasting impression on every traveler.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Hoi An is during the dry season, from February to May. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with little rainfall.
Top regions to visit
Hoi An
Hoi An, situated on Vietnam's central coast, is celebrated for its well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with its historic buildings and bustling markets. This charming destination appeals to culture lovers, history buffs, and foodies alike. Visitors can enjoy vibrant night markets by the river, relax on white sand beaches, explore historic ruins, and savor incredible cuisine, making Hoi An a perfect spot for everyone.
To learn more about visiting Hoi An, visit our Hoi An travel guide.
Hanoi
Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital and second largest city. Here, you can see both Chinese and French influences, and time spent here allows you to gain a deep understanding of the culture and Northern Vietnamese cuisine. Hanoi is fast-paced and exciting, packed with history and endless incredible street food.
Ha Long Bay
Located 160 kilometers from Hanoi is the scenic HaLong Bay. It’s the perfect compliment to a city stay in Hanoi, and allows you the opportunity to see some of the most magnificent scenery up close and personal as you sail along emerald waters in between towering limestone islands. It’s also the perfect destination to unwind and relax on the beach.
Bri’s Insider Tip: I would recommend sailing in Lan Ha Bay instead of Halong Bay. You’ll get the same beautiful scenery as you do in HaLong Bay with far less crowds.
Top activities in Vietnam
Ride a motorbike in Hanoi
You aren’t really experiencing Vietnam if you’re not on a motorbike. Tour Hanoi on the back of a motorbike driven by a guide and experience the city the way the locals do as you whiz through the bustling streets.
Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum
The mausoleum houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh and is a symbol of the nation's deep respect and admiration for him. Visitors can pay their respects by viewing Ho Chi Minh's preserved remains and exploring the surrounding Ba Dinh Square.
Street food tour in Hanoi
A street food tour led by a local expert will allow you to discover hidden gems, street food, and unforgettable eateries serving local cuisine in one of the tastiest cities in Vietnam.
Sung Sot Cave
Visiting Sung Sot Cave in Halong Bay offers a breathtaking experience of one of Vietnam's most impressive natural wonders. Known as the "Surprise Cave," it features two chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. You can walk through the cave’s well-lit paths and take in the rock formations and panoramic views of emerald waters.
Kayak in Halong Bay
Kayaking through Halong Bay’s waters is a great way to discover secluded coves, limestone formations, and islands up close.
Hoi An Night Market
Taking place in the center of town overlooking the river, the Hoi An Night Market is one of the most popular markets in Vietnam and features over 50 local vendors selling clothing, local snacks, trinkets, and more. The market is a beautiful experience, with hundreds of lanterns illuminating the river and the vendor stalls.
My Son Sanctuary
Located just an hour’s drive from Hoi An on the hills of central Vietnam, the My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll find ruins of ancient towers and temples. The temples were built in the 14th century by Hindu Cham kings and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The sanctuary was once an important cultural and religious center, used for ceremonies and a burial place for royalty. The surrounding lush valley and mountains make for a picturesque and tranquil location to take in the historical significance of the site.
Best hotels in Vietnam
Amanoi—Nestled in Nui Chua National Park overlooking Vinh Hy Bay, this hotel offers serene, luxurious villas, a world-class spa, and breathtaking natural surroundings.
Capella Hanoi—Capella Hanoi, located in the heart of the city, combines Art Deco-inspired interiors with modern amenities.
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas—This accommodation provides an exclusive beachfront retreat with spacious private villas, personalized butler service, and views of the South China Sea.
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay—Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, accessible only by boat, offers secluded, eco-friendly villas, immersive wellness programs, and breathtaking views of the dramatic bay and surrounding mountains.
What to eat in Vietnam
Cao Lầu—a regional specialty with rice noodles, barbecued pork, croutons, and fresh herbs served in a flavorful broth.
Banh Mi—A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with your choice of meat like grilled pork or fried fish, along with vegetables, butter, soy sauce, chilies, hot peppers, and herbs.
Banh Bao Vac—Also known as White Rose Dumplings, these dumplings are made with translucent rice paper and filled with shrimp or pork and garnished with crispy shallots.
Mango Cake—A local dessert made from sticky rice flour and fresh mango.
Pho—Vietnamese noodle soup usually made with beef or chicken and flavored with herbs, lime, and chili.
Goi Cuon—Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli noodles, wrapped in rice paper and served with peanut dipping sauce.
Banh Xeo—Crispy Vietnamese pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs.
Cha Ca—A Hanoi speciality of fish marinated in turmeric and often served with shrimp paste, ginger, and chilly peppers.
Vietnamese Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)—Another Hanoi speciality, this drink is prepared with whipped egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and coffee.
Start planning your trip to Vietnam
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