Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam is a country of dramatic landscapes and centuries of layered history, offering a wealth of experiences for every kind of traveller. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the terraced rice fields of Sapa, and the ancient streets of Hoi An, this nation captivates with its natural beauty and cultural depth. Whether you seek the thrill of a motorbike journey along the Ha Giang Loop, the rich flavours of street food in Hanoi's Old Quarter, or the tranquil luxury of a coastal resort in Da Nang, Vietnam promises an unforgettable adventure. A Vietnam walking holiday or cycling in Vietnam offers an intimate way to explore this diverse terrain. This guide will provide factual insights into the best times to travel, essential information on major cities, must-see national parks, and a curated selection of the finest luxury accommodations.

 

---

 

Ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers in Nha Trang (Photo Credit: alexkoral)

 

 

Vietnam is a deeply captivating nation where a lavish, layered past beautifully intersects with dynamic modern life. The country's history is etched into its very landscape, from the crumbling Cham-era ruins of central Vietnam to the grandiose imperial enclosures of Hue. Influences from indigenous traditions, Chinese dynastic rule, and French colonialism blend seamlessly to create a culture that is entirely unique. Art and history enthusiasts will find endless fascination in the intricate pagodas, ancient merchant houses, and poignant war museums that tell the story of a resilient people. The culinary scene is equally profound, offering a masterclass in balance and freshness. You will discover that every region presents its own culinary signature, from the warming bowls of pho in the north to the sweet, herb-infused delicacies of the vibrant south.

 

 

Best time to visit

Navigating the climate of this long, sweeping country requires a touch of planning, as the weather shifts dramatically from the northern highlands to the southern delta. The most opportune times to experience the entirety of Vietnam are during April and November. During these transitional months, you stand the greatest chance of encountering clear skies and agreeable temperatures at both ends of the country. If you focus solely on the north, the cooler, dry months from October to April offer crisp mountain air ideal for a Vietnam Walking Holiday. Conversely, the southern regions, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, are best experienced between November and April, before the heavy summer monsoons sweep across the plains.

 

 

Pho noodle soup (Photo Credit: ngoc tran)

 

Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An (Photo Credit: Richie Chan)

 

 

Major Cities & Towns to Visit

Hanoi

Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, a historic heartland where centuries of commerce and culture converge. Here, you can cycle past ancient temples, pause for a bowl of phở at a bustling street food stall, and witness traditional water puppet theatre. Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature to delve into the nation's profound history.

 

Hoi An

Step back in time in this enchanting UNESCO World Heritage trading port, where lantern-lit alleys invite evening strolls. Cycle through tranquil countryside to nearby rice paddies and herb villages, learn to craft iconic dishes in a local cooking class, and admire the meticulously preserved Japanese Covered Bridge and historic shophouses that reflect a rich tapestry of cultural influences. A Vietnam Cycle Tour through this region is unforgettable.

 

Da Lat

Escape to the "City of Eternal Spring," a highland retreat famed for its French colonial architecture and temperate climate. This alpine town is a sanctuary for adventure, offering scenic hiking trails to waterfalls like Datanla and Elephant Falls, and opportunities to cycle around the serene Xuan Huong Lake. It's a perfect destination for both Cycling in Vietnam and Walking in Vietnam. Discover its unique artistic flair at the eccentric Hằng Nga Guesthouse, famously known as the "Crazy House."

 

Ho Chi Minh City

Immerse yourself in the relentless energy of Vietnam's southern metropolis, a city where history and modernity collide. Uncover the poignant stories of the past at the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels, then dive into a world-class culinary scene, from sophisticated rooftop bars to vibrant street-side food markets. The city's thriving arts scene can be found in contemporary galleries and dynamic performance spaces.

 

 

National Parks

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

 

Venture into a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to some of the world's most impressive cave systems. This geological masterpiece boasts the colossal Hang Son Doong, the largest cave on Earth by volume, and the stunning Paradise Cave, with its otherworldly stalactites and stalagmites. Explore these subterranean realms through guided expeditions that range from leisurely boat tours along underground rivers to multi-day trekking and spelunking adventures perfect for a Vietnam Walking Holiday.

 

Ba Be National Park

 

Discover a tranquil oasis in Vietnam's mountainous northeast, where Ba Be Lake—the country's largest natural freshwater lake—forms the heart of the park. Spanning three interconnected bodies of water, the lake is enveloped by ancient limestone karsts and dense evergreen forests. Take a boat trip to serene islets, explore the Puong Cave, or trek to remote Tay ethnic villages to experience the unique culture of the region, which is also a sanctuary for a diverse range of flora and fauna.

 

Cat Ba National Park

 

Journey to Cat Ba Island, a rugged jewel in the Gulf of Tonkin, where this national park protects a rich biosphere reserve. The park's diverse ecosystems include subtropical evergreen forests, freshwater wetlands, and coastal mangroves, providing a habitat for the critically endangered Cat Ba langur. Hike through its challenging jungle trails to reach breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the iconic limestone karsts of Lan Ha Bay, a quieter and equally stunning alternative to the neighbouring Ha Long Bay.

 

 

Lake Dinner at Amanoi (Phot credit: Amanoi)

 

 

Best Things To See & Do

For those who favour active exploration, Walking in Vietnam through the soaring limestone peaks and terraced rice paddies of Ha Giang or Sapa offers profound encounters with local minority communities. Cycling enthusiasts should head to the cooler climes of Da Lat to navigate pine-forested trails, or take on the legendary Hai Van Pass—a winding coastal road delivering spectacular views of the East Sea. For more inspiration on where to pedal, read our blog on the Best Cycling in Vietnam for an unforgettable Vietnam Bike Holiday.

 

History comes alive at the ruins of My Son, a cluster of abandoned, jungle-draped Hindu temples near Hoi An that date back to the Champa Kingdom. To experience the country's profound relationship with water, paddle a kayak through the silent, towering karsts and pristine mangroves of Lan Ha Bay, far from the crowds of Halong. Finally, no journey is complete without a Mekong Delta cruise. Gliding along these vital waterways allows you to witness vibrant floating markets and sample life at the unhurried pace of southern Vietnam. Discover more inspiration on our blog: 7 Best Things To Do in Vietnam.

 

 

Best Hotels To Stay

Retreat to accommodations that transform your journey into an extraordinary affair. Find serene elegance at Amanoi, a coastal sanctuary nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Nui Chua National Park, where cliff-side infinity pools merge with the horizon and private villas offer serene wellness journeys inspired by ancient healing traditions. Embark on an opulent voyage through Southern Vietnam aboard the Mekong Jewel, an all-suite river vessel that glides past vibrant floating markets. Discover a hidden paradise at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, where private retreats with plunge pools overlook a secluded bay. Or, step back into an era of colonial charm at Ana Villas Dalat, a collection of restored French-style villas nestled in pine-forested hills. Each destination offers a unique sanctuary, curated for the most discerning traveller. Explore our exceptional collection of Vietnam Accommodation has been curated for the most discerning traveller, offering sanctuaries that are destinations in their own right.

 

 

Discover Vietnam Holidays Here