Hanoi's Old Quarter is considered the heart of the city, and it is a must-visit place for foodies. Sample the famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang or try some Cha Ca La Vong, a delicious fish dish. Take a stroll and enjoy the bustling streets and local markets.
Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam's most popular tourist destinations. It is a great place to sample seafood and try out dishes like the squid sausage or the famous banh cuon (steamed rice rolls).
Hue was once the ancient capital of Vietnam and has a rich culinary history. Some must-try dishes include Banh Khoai (a crispy pancake stuffed with bean sprouts and shrimp) and Bun Bo Hue (a spicy beef noodle soup). Take a boat ride along the Perfume River to enjoy the views.
Hoi An is a stunning town filled with colourful lanterns and ancient architecture. Sample the local specialities like Cao Lau (noodles with pork and herbs) or the famous White Rose dumplings. Don't forget to explore the bustling night market for some street food.
Da Nang is the perfect place to indulge in some seafood, especially the local favourite, Banh Xeo (savory pancakes). Take a walk along the Han River and enjoy the beautiful city skyline. Don't forget to try the famous Mi Quang (a noodle dish with meat, vegetables, and peanuts).
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a bustling metropolis that offers a wide range of dishes. Experience the vibrant street food culture and try some Banh Mi or Pho, the most iconic dishes in Vietnamese cuisine. Take a tour of the famous Ben Thanh market and indulge in some delicious treats.
The Mekong Delta is a unique region that offers a wide range of culinary delights. Try some fresh fruit from the floating markets or sample some exotic dishes like the snake meat, which is believed to have healing powers. Take a boat tour to explore the region and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Travellers can use public transportation like taxis, buses, and trains to move around between cities. Private car hire can be used for more convenient and efficient transportation. Estimated transportation costs may vary from £5 to £25 depending on the mode of transportation and distance.
If you have more time, consider visiting other places like Sapa Valley, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, or the beautiful beaches in Nha Trang. For shorter trips, you can cut one or two destinations out of this itinerary. Don't forget to try all the local specialities as Vietnamese cuisine is a regional affair.
The main airport in Vietnam is Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, with a distance of 28 km from the city centre. Other international airports are Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang.