Top destinations to include on any Vietnam itinerary

Planning a getaway to Vietnam? Check out some of the most popular destinations of this exciting country to plan the best holiday of your life!

If you love the mountains….

Although Sapa town is highly developed and touristy, the surrounding mountainous countryside and numerous ethnic minority villages make this a highly sought after destination for international and domestic tourists alike. Terraced rice fields climb up steep mountain sides, hiding waterfalls, thick forests, and quiet rural communities.

No matter your fitness level, you can participate in a range of activities from day-hikes and multi-day treks with warm homestays to cultural immersion in local art and spa treatments.  Regardless, the breathtaking scenery will surprise even the most experienced traveller.

The beautiful rice terraces of Sa Pa

If you’re a foodie….

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, is famous for its expansive selections of delicious street food available 24 hours per day. The smoke from charred pork which will eventually be someone’s bun cha wafts through alleys and streets while the steam of pho ga and pho bo entices customers into small, hole-in-the-wall noodle shops.

Each area of the city is famous for a particular dish, whether it’s freshly rolled spring rolls in Truc Bach, the flavourful Cha Ca on Duong Thanh Street in the Old Quarter, or the sweet cool aromas of ice-cream on Trang Tien Plaza.

When in Hanoi, do as the Hanoians do and eat bun cha

If you just want to rest and relax…

Book an overnight cruise in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay. The fascinating scenery of thousands of karst limestone islands, hidden grottoes and caves, floating villages, and bright emerald waters evoke a sense of wonder no matter the weather forecast or time of year.

Islands such as Cat Ba, Quan Lan, and Co To possess barebones accommodation and limited options of activities and cuisine; however, the atmosphere of tranquility is palpable. Breathe in the fresh sea air and lay back as your cruise takes you deep into the heart of the Gulf of Tonkin, whether its Ha Long, Lan Ha, or Bai Tu Long Bay.

Aerial view of Halong Bay 

If you’re a history buff…

Travel to Hue and visit the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam. Although the citadel was badly damaged during the Second Indochina War, the remnants of the Purple Forbidden City, gates, and temples can still be seen and admired.

Hue is also well known for its beautiful gardens and expansive mausoleums built by the emperors of old. Visit these beautiful tombs by boat along the Perfume River, by motorcycle, bicycle, or cyclo. Lastly, Thien Mu Pagoda, a historical area of worship in Hue, holds the car used by the monk Thich Quang Duc on his journey to Saigon to protest the policies of the Southern Regime, resulting in his self-immolation.

Feel history come alive while exploring the tomb of Emperor Ming Mang

If you’re an art aficionado…

Wander the streets of the UNESCO World Heritage Hoi An Ancient Town. This quaint area of Central Vietnam contains a walking street lined by flowering bougainvillea, traditional Chinese shophouses, charming teahouses, Vietnamese tube houses, French colonial buildings, and a gorgeous Japanese bridge. Boutique shops and art galleries tempt shoppers with their one-of-a-kind wares, and tailors promise to create the outfit and accessories of your dreams in just 24 hours.

As the sun begins to set, stroll along the river looking for the perfect restaurant as the iconic lanterns begin to glow and the crowds set in. If you want to avoid the crowds, make sure to visit in the morning or in the heat of the early afternoon to have the run of the town.

If you’re a night owl…

Answer the call of Saigon’s pumping nightlife. Zoom through the streets of colonial Saigon on the back of a Vespa, attend the hit A O Show, dine in top restaurants, and dance ‘till the sun comes up in Lush or Apocalypse Now. For those who prefer a quieter ambiance, head to the rooftop Chill Sky Bar, take a romantic dinner cruise along the Saigon River, or check out the impressive live music scene.

Sample local mixology, like the “pho” cocktail

If you’re a nature lover…

Don’t miss out on the Mekong River Delta, a vast expanse of river networks, swamps, mangroves, rice paddies, and orchards. Floating markets and small towns continue to exist as they have done for hundreds of years. The friendly people and exotic landscapes of small canals crowded with tall palm fringes will stay with you for a long time once you have left the area.

Tropical paradise awaits in the Mekong River Delta

If you love the beach…

Vietnam’s 3,260 km of coastline means it has access to some amazing beaches and islands along the East Sea. Da Nang is home to 5-star hotels and resorts such as Four Seasons, Intercontinental, Premiere Village, and Fusion Maia, offering expansive beaches, world-class spa treatments, culinary delights, indulgent infinity pools, and luxurious private pool villas to fully pamper guests.

Further south, Qui Nhon, Ninh Thuan and Ninh Van Bay showcase less-visited beaches and lush jungles on the edges of lavish resorts such as Amanoi and Six Senses. Lastly, the island paradise of the Con Dao archipelago proposes top luxury in an isolated setting with beautiful coral reefs, deserted beaches, and unexplored jungle by day, while resting your head in the sleek Six Senses Con Dao or Paulo Condor Boutique by night.

Con Dao

What are you waiting for? Go ahead and contact one of Mundo Asia’s travel designers to begin designing the tailor-made holiday of your dreams to Vietnam!