Find everything you can do in this incredible country with this Vietnam Travel Guide. Explore the rich history it unfolds and know all about the best time to visit, food to taste and much more!
From lush high mountains in the north to sunny beaches in the south, Vietnam is a treasure chest of experiences waiting to be unpacked. This is the journey where no matter how you say it, Vietnam is not going to be paralleled by any other in the richness of history, culture, and brimming natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the calm of Halong Bay; from the ancient benevolence of Hoi An to the pulsating energy of Ho Chi Minh City, this can all-await us in this contrary nation of opportunities. Here is the incredible Vietnam travel guide you can follow.
From the fantastic architecture down to the bustling markets and flavorful food, the country is a vibrant mix of old traditions continuing onto modern-day innovations. Whether dodging motorcycles through narrow alleys of the Old Quarter, taking a cruise through emerald waters, or exploring ancient temples, Vietnam has a personal appeal that’s hard to ignore. The local cuisine of the country, largely fresh and vibrant, makes adding another layer of charm to the country quite palatable by taking one on a food journey that’s unique and memorable.
Coupled with this, we have produced a detailed guide listing the best times to visit, the top attractions to see, must-have experiences, foods and beverages one gets along the way, cities that one should not miss, and a very precise itinerary that enables you to make the most of the trip, thus ensuring that all the good things about Vietnam are your way. Get ready for an inspiring journey that will stay in your memory for a long time.
Best Time to Visit to Vietnam
This is because Vietnam has a long and narrow configuration. Hence, there is variable weather. For this reason, the best time of year will vary depending on the regions one intends to visit. Generally speaking, the best times to visit Vietnam are during spring-from March to April during autumn-from September to November. These months are normally mild and pleasant in most parts of the country; hence, this is very good for visiting various sights and doing outdoor activities.
The best time to visit the whole country is in spring-from March to April. Days are warm and sunny, with a minimum of rain, in North Vietnam, which makes them almost ideal for sightseeing cities such as Hanoi and Halong Bay. The Center and the South are also dry and pleasant, perfect for beach holidays and sightseeing.
Autumn: Generally cooler and less humid, particularly in the north, though central and southern areas stay warm and generally less rainy. These are good months to visit popular destinations like Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City.
Summer, June to August: The period gets brutally hot and humid, courtesy of the north and central regions. Other than that, there are also chances for rainy typhoons that may hit the coastal areas. Moreover, travelling in this season, the south of Vietnam-even Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island remains relatively dry and sunny.
Top 11 Attractions in Vietnam
With several quantities of attractions for all kinds of travellers, here are the top 11 places one shouldn’t miss in Vietnam as per this Vietnam travel guide:
1. Halong Bay: A sacred tourist site with immense history dug in there, Halong Bay is famous for many things. Some of them include emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. Also, a cruise through this mystic bay should be undertaken.
2. Old Quarter Hanoi: With its narrow streets, the quintessential heart of the capital city that buzzes with colonial architecture, animated markets, and appetizing street foodie stalls – It will be fascinating to see the ancient charm and richness in culture in this historic precinct.
3. Hoi An Ancient Town: It is known for its well-preserved architecture; the town is very charming and reflects the rich past of Vietnam. The lanterns just cannot miss their bright evenings across the Thu Bon River.
4. Cu Chi Tunnels: Another attraction in Vietnam is Ho Chi Minh City. The place where one can imagine with a shudder what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. One can crawl through the enchanting tunnels it offers.
5. Hue Imperial City: The onetime capital of Vietnam boasts an enormous Imperial City-a huge complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates that echo back to the country’s royal past.
6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: The largest U.N.E.S.C.O. World Heritage park is full of Earth’s best speleological systems—one would aver, of course, the largest cave in the world is inside this one: Son Doong. Heaven on Earth for certainly all adventure-loving nature enthusiasts.
7. Mekong Delta: One of the biggest expanses which gives life an influence of water, the Mekong Delta is that peculiar place where every attribute of life has some influence. Take a boat tour for floating markets, floating villages, and lush landscapes.
8. Sa Pa: The other best place to visit in Vietnam is these rice fields in the northern highlands with the most terrific experience. Moreover, the Sa Pa includes amazing adventures for mountain treks, ethnic villages, and fabulous views.
9. My Son Sanctuary: This is one of the sites inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. It is an ancient Hindu temple complex which once served as a religious centre of the Champa Kingdom. Additionally, the ruins bear outstanding testimony to the Cham culture.
10. Phu Quoc Island: The largest island in Vietnam, very tropical, with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and flora from dense forests. Additionally, it is perfect for relaxation, snorkelling, and exploration of its pristine beauty.
11. Ba Na Hills with Golden Bride: The Ba Na Hills surround this French village, its breathtaking panoramic views, and the famous Golden Bride supported by giant stone hands. Also, the Ba Na Hills is located on the outskirts of Da Nang town, and it forms a hill station.
Must-Have Experiences Being in Vietnam
Experiences in Vietnam are not only rich but diverse as well. A small fragment of what you shouldn’t miss.
Street Food Tours: It’s just some next-level street food over in Vietnam. Moreover, you can stand on any street from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An and find street food tours that take you through the freshest morning delicacies, like pho, bánh mì, and fresh spring rolls.
Countryside Cycling: Take a bike and explore rural Vietnam. Be it paddies around Sa Pa or the scenic routes of the Mekong Delta, cycling gets an exclusive view.
Halong Bay Overnight Cruise: Enjoy an overnight stay on board a traditional junk boat in Halong Bay. Enjoy the surreal beauty that this bay in starlight, while activities include kayaking, squid fishing, and cave exploration.
Ethnic village: visits there are a reflection of the 54 ethnic minorities living in Vietnam, within their culture and tradition. The ethnic minority villages around places like Sa Pa or the Central Highlands reflect a way of living.
Vietnamese Coffee Culture: Being the second biggest exporter in the coffee production industry worldwide. The culture surrounding this product is very particular in Vietnam. Among the most important things not to be missed, of course, is the traditional Vietnamese coffee. This is due to the fact that it boasts the famous Hanoi egg coffee.
Cooking Classes: Vietnamese cuisine has reached world-class stature. Arrange for a cooking class for one of the most iconic and characteristic Vietnamese dishes: pho, spring rolls, and bun cha. Most of the classes also allow students to make a quick stop at the market and shop for the freshest ingredients.
Caving: Vietnam is also blessed with most of the most beautiful caves in the world, apart from Son Doong. Some of these caves are Hang En, Paradise Cave, and Phong Nha Cave. There are several trips that will end up providing these wonders of the world.
Food and Beverages to Taste in Vietnam
It is not only about the delicacies but a cocktail of taste, texture, and colour, this Vietnam travel guide has got you covered. A few of the foods or drinks one should have tried in Vietnam include:
1. Pho: The national dish is spice and herb noodle soup in either beef or chicken. It is the ultimate comfort food and can be consumed at literally any time of the day.
2. Banh Mi: This could have been a baguette with anything from pork to pate and from pickles to coriander, a heady combination of French and Vietnamese.
3. Bun Cha: Hanoi originated this dish made by mixing rice noodles with fresh herbs and topped with grilled pork, the whole lot dipped in a light, sour sauce.
4. Goi Cuon, also known as fresh spring rolls, are shrimp and pork with vermicelli noodles wrapped in a rice paper wrapper and accompanied by some sort of dipping sauce.
5. Com Tam-rice broken-served with grilled pork and should be served with an egg and spicy fish sauce.
6. Ca Phe Sua Da: Strong, sweet, and refreshing; it beats all the rest of iced coffee, anyway. Moreover, the sweetened condensed milk with dark-roast coffee is just a marriage in heaven.
7. Egg Coffee: Devised in Hanoi, rich and creamy, egg yolk, sugar, condensed milk, and Robusta coffee all unite here.
8. Bia Hoi: This is the local draft beer of Vietnam, and it is super light and refreshing. It usually comes in small glasses and is, hence, best enjoyed with streetside stalls full of friends.
9. Cao Lau: an anthology dish from Hoi An consisting of thick noodles, pork, and greens all drowning in a deep, herb- and spice-infused broth.
Top 7 Cities as per the Vietnam Travel Guide
Cities in Vietnam are their mix of history, culture, and modernity. Let us have a look at the top 7 cities to explore:
1. Hanoi: Strolling in the capital city is always interesting, big currents from the past and the present swirl together. Hence, visitors will get a chance to visit the Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and many other histories forming a wonderful cradle of rich history and culture.
2. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): The most extensive city in Vietnam, full of life and nightlife, replete with historic sites, and overflows with a lot of local food culture.
3. Da Nang: This is a coastal city and hosts very amazing beach areas. The city also serves as an access city for visitors to Hoi An and its ancient capital Hue. Moreover, it is a must-visit the Marble Mountains and Golden Bridge.
4. Hue: This was the imperial capital, carrying vast history within its ramparts, the tombs of the emperors, and pagodas in a city steeped with royal history.
5. Hoi An: This town represents a UNESCO World Heritage site with an incredibly well-preserved ancient town, lantern-lit streets, and traditional crafts that are just what any food lover will want.
6. Nha Trang: This type of coastal city is really beautiful, with beaches and diving spots. Nha Trang is a mix of relaxation and adventure. Also, you might go island hopping or get quite wet with the nightlife.
7. Can Tho: Located in the Mekong Delta region, Can Tho brags about floating markets, and river cruises, and is highly green. It’s the heart of this area, giving sight to another heart of life on the water.
Have fun with this in-detail Vietnam Travel Guide while you onboard this adventure to a land of wisdom.
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