Hoi An Ancient Town is a beautifully preserved old trading port that is pedestrianized and filled with colorful lanterns. It is known for its unique architecture, rich history, and delectable food. Take a stroll along the riverside and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation, and the Hoi An Central Market.
My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built by the Champa civilization as a religious center from the 4th to 13th centuries AD. The ruins of the Hindu temples are set in a beautiful valley surrounded by hills and jungle. Hire a guide and learn about the fascinating history and architecture of the site.
Ba Na Hills is a popular hill station that offers breathtaking views, entertainment, and activities for all ages. Ride the world's longest cable car and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, explore the French Village, visit the Fantasy Park, and take lots of pictures at the Golden Bridge.
Hue Imperial City is a former capital of Vietnam and home to the Nguyen Dynasty's royal palace, temples, and tombs. Visit the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the tombs of Minh Mang and Tu Duc emperors. Hire a cyclo driver and take a relaxing tour of the city's streets.
Cuc Phuong National Park is the oldest national park in Vietnam and home to a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna. Go on a guided nature walk, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and spend the night in a rustic bungalow in the park.
Ninh Binh Province is known as "Ha Long Bay on land" and offers stunning landscapes of karst mountains, rice paddies, and rivers. Take a boat ride in Tam Coc or Trang An to see the limestone cliffs up close, visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and bike around the countryside.
Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular destinations in Vietnam. Cruise around the bay on a traditional junk boat, swim in the emerald water, kayak to hidden lagoons, and enjoy a seafood feast on board.
Hanoi Old Quarter is a charming neighborhood filled with narrow streets, colonial architecture, and street food vendors. Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, the Dong Xuan Market, and the St. Joseph's Cathedral. Take a cyclo tour or join a street food tour to taste the local delicacies.
Sapa Town is a picturesque hill station that is famous for its rolling hills, terraced rice paddies, and ethnic minority tribes. Go on a trekking tour with a local guide to explore the breathtaking scenery and learn about the culture of the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people.
Cat Ba Island is the largest island in Halong Bay and a great place for outdoor activities. Hire a kayak and paddle around the bay, hike up to the Cannon Fort for panoramic views, and relax on the pristine beaches.
Phong Nha Caves is a national park and home to the world's largest cave system. Take a boat ride along the Son River and explore the stunning limestone formations, underground rivers, and caverns. Go on a guided tour of the caves and learn about their geological and historical significance.
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Visit the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Ben Thanh Market. Take a cooking class or a motorbike tour to experience the local way of life.
Travelers can get around Vietnam by plane, train, bus, or private car. Domestic airlines such as Vietjet, Jetstar, and Vietnam Airlines offer competitive prices and frequent flights between major cities. The Vietnam Railway also provides overnight trains with sleeper cabins that connect Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Buses are cheaper but may not be comfortable for long journeys. Private cars or taxis can be hired through hotels or online booking platforms.
Estimated travel costs: $200 for domestic flights or train tickets, $50 for buses, and $500 for private car hire.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Mekong Delta, the Cu Chi Tunnels, or the beaches in Nha Trang or Phu Quoc. If you have less time, skip Ninh Binh Province or Sapa Town. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and a light jacket as the weather can be unpredictable. Bargaining is common in markets and street vendors, so be prepared to negotiate the price. Finally, try as much Vietnamese food as possible and don't miss out on the coffee and beer!
There are four main international airports in Vietnam: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang, and Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) in Nha Trang. Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat are the busiest and have the most international connections. Both airports are located within 30 minutes from the city center by taxi or shuttle bus.