Start your trip in Vietnam by exploring the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh. Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history, specifically the Vietnam War. Afterward, head to the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, a magnificent cathedral built during French colonial times. In the evening, visit the Ben Thanh Night Market for a taste of Vietnamese street food and local products.
Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a maze of rivers, swamps, and islands. Visit the Cai Be Floating Market, a lively market where vendors sell fruit, vegetables, and local specialties from their boats. Take a boat ride to see the coconut candy workshop and the rice paper workshop. In the evening, enjoy a homestay experience with a local family to learn more about their daily life and culture.
Fly to Da Nang and head to the charming town of Hoi An. Stroll around the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the well-preserved buildings, temples, and pagodas. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, a beautiful bridge that connects the Chinese and Japanese quarters. Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and watch the sunset over the water. In the evening, enjoy a lantern-making workshop and release your own lantern on the river.
Take a flight to Hanoi and head to the magnificent Ha Long Bay. Take a boat ride to see the thousands of limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters. Visit the Sung Sot Cave, a spectacular cave with stalactites and stalagmites. Try kayaking or swimming in the bay, or simply relax on the deck and enjoy the stunning scenery. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner on board the boat.
Other local attractions and experiences to consider include visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City, taking a cooking class in Hoi An, and watching a water puppet show in Hanoi. For side trips, you can visit the imperial city of Hue, the beaches of Nha Trang, or the highlands of Dalat. To maximize your fun, try to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the locals, and try new things. And don't forget to try Vietnamese coffee, pho, banh mi, and other delicious dishes! Safe travels!
Find hotels and flights for your trip to Vietnam here.