Kick-off your foodie adventure in Vietnam by visiting the Ben Thanh Market, a buzzing indoor marketplace that offers an array of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. Try the famous banh mi sandwich or indulge in some freshly made pho. Don’t forget to sample some tropical fruits, such as dragon fruit or rambutan for a truly authentic experience.
On day 2, head to the stunning Tea House and immerse yourself in the traditional culture of Vietnam. Learn about the different types of tea and their significance in Vietnamese culture. Later in the day, join Saigon Street Food Tours and discover the hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City. Try the delicious banh xeo, bun thit nuong, and other authentic street food as you explore the vibrant and colorful city.
Hoi An is known for its beautiful old town, delicious local cuisine and its famous lantern festival that is held on the 14th day of every lunar month. Take cooking classes at the famous Red Bridge Cooking School and learn about the art of Vietnamese cuisine. Taste the dishes you make and take home new skills to impress your friends at dinner parties. After exploring Hoi An's beauty during the day, spend a magical night experiencing the ancient Lantern Festival, surrounded by colorful lanterns, traditional performances, and delicious local street food.
In Hue, explore the famous Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the rich history of the Nguyen Dynasty. Visit the Dong Ba Market for some street food and try the delicious Bun Bo Hue, an iconic Vietnamese noodle soup. Don’t miss the chance to try the sweet Hue desserts, such as che or banh khoai before you leave.
Take a break from the hectic city and visit the stunning My Khe Beach in Da Nang. Awarded one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it’s an excellent place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Try some fresh seafood and enjoy the view before you depart for your next stop.
In Ninh Binh, explore the many beautiful caves, such as the Hang Mua or Tam Coc Cave, engulfed in lush greenery and stunning scenery. Take a Tam Coc boat tour and glide through the tranquil water, surrounded by towering cliffs and rice paddies. Discover the idyllic countryside, try some fresh goat meat, and enjoy the scenery before retiring for the night.
Hanoi is a bustling city that offers a fantastic mix of modern and traditional culture. Explore the Old Quarter and browse the many shops, bars, and restaurants. Try the famous Vietnamese egg coffee and discover why it's one of the most unique coffee flavors in the world. Take a food tour around the city to taste some of the best Vietnamese dishes, such as cha ca, bun cha, and pho cuon. Finally, explore the beautiful Thang Long Water Puppet Theater for an evening of traditional Vietnamese entertainment.
As your trip to Vietnam comes to an end, spend your last day wandering the streets, immerse yourself in the local culture, and pick up any last-minute souvenirs before you depart. Make sure you sample some of the excellent street food before leaving Vietnam and prepare for your next food adventure.
Throughout Vietnam, travelers can choose to travel by airplane, train, bus, taxi, or ride-share services. In Hanoi, be sure to explore the city on foot, as most attractions are located close together.
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If you have more time, consider extending your trip to include the northern mountain areas, such as Sapa, where you can explore tribal villages, see rice terraces, and try some indigenous dishes.
Alternatively, if you have less time, consider choosing to explore northern or southern Vietnam only, as both areas have a unique charm and diverse culture to experience.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the largest airport in Vietnam and serves as the main gateway for international travelers to Ho Chi Minh City. The airport is located 6.3 km from the city center, and it takes approximately 30 minutes to reach by car.