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A kaleidoscope of colour, flavour and cultural history, Vietnam is one of the world’s most beloved destinations for good reason. From its fascinating and complex history to its astounding architecture, the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay and the Hai Van Pass to sensational street food from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh, there’s something for every kind of traveller, and a wide array of captivating destinations to add to your itinerary spanning north to south.
With a wide latitude from the country’s lush north to its cosmopolitan south, the weather can vary from region to region. Travel in Vietnam between November and April sees minimal rainfall and mild temperatures, with Hanoi in the north at its most temperate between March and April. But even during the humid rainy season, a trip to Ho Chi Minh City offers fewer crowds with a typical burst of brief rain each day – itself a fun opportunity to experience the ebb and flow of Vietnamese life.
Any Vietnam itinerary is sure to feature Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but for the full experience you’ll want to set aside time for both. In the north, Hanoi boasts a rich culinary tradition and many historic sites, from scenic central Hoan Kiem Lake to the striking One Pillar Pagoda. In the south, Ho Chi Minh City – sometimes referred to as Saigon – is a city of colourful chaos, with overlapping cultural influences, a thriving bar scene and some truly exceptional street food. Along the way, book a stay in central Hoi An, where the Ancient Town is sure to enchant. Nearby, the royal tales of Hue are captured in its palatial architecture. East of Hanoi, the dramatic limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay are best experienced on an overnight cruise.
Train and air travel cover all of Vietnam’s most popular destinations, but the easiest way to experience the country is undoubtedly as part of a well-organised tour. Taking the stress out of organising coach, flight and rail bookings, Vietnam tours will guarantee you time to admire peaceful Ha Long Bay, taste Hanoi’s famous egg coffee, wander the artisan shopfronts of Hoi An and experience the hustle and bustle of Saigon’s busy streets. Beyond these essential cities, a tour to Vietnam can help you get to other must-see destinations like the sombre Cu Chi Tunnels, as well as the lush riverfront of the Mekong Delta.
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