Vietnam

North Region

Hanoi's Old Quarter & Historical Charm

  • Wander through the maze of the Old French Quarter's 36 ancient streets, each historically specializing in a specific trade.Enjoy its colonial-era architecture, including the Hanoi Opera House and St. Joseph's Cathedral.
  • Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, a serene oasis in the city center with a legendary turtle.
  • Consider visiting the Vietnam National Museum of History, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, or the Hoa Lo Prison Museum ("Hanoi Hilton") for deeper insights into the nation's past and diverse cultures.
  • Explore the vibrant bar scene in the Old Quarter, enjoy live music venues, or catch a traditional performance in the evening. Bia Hoi street offers a taste of local nightlife.
  • Witness the unique art form of a traditional water puppet show.
  • Stroll through the French Quarter with its colonial-era architecture, including the Hanoi Opera House and St. Joseph's Cathedral.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi's largest wholesale market.

Ha Long Bay's Limestone Majesty

  • Embark on a cruise through the stunning emerald waters dotted with thousands of limestone karsts and islands.
  • Explore magnificent caves like Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) and Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave) with their impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Kayak through hidden lagoons and under limestone arches, discovering secluded corners of the bay.
  • Visit a floating fishing village to witness the unique way of life on the water.
  • Rent a motorcycle and explore Cat Ba National Park with its diverse ecosystems, including forests, mangroves, and beaches.
  • Hike to viewpoints on Cat Ba Island: Trek to the Cannon Fort for historical insights and panoramic bay views.

The Majestic Ha Giang Loop

  • Embark on a multi-day motorbike journey through the breathtaking landscapes of northern Ha Giang province.
  • Witness the dramatic Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage site with towering limestone peaks.
  • Drive along the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of Vietnam's most stunning mountain roads, offering incredible views of the Nho Que River.
  • Visit Lung Cu Flag Tower, the northernmost point of Vietnam, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Explore traditional ethnic villages and markets, experiencing the unique cultures of the region.
  • Stay in local homestays along the way for an authentic cultural experience and to enjoy the hospitality of the local people.

Sapa's Highland Culture & Landscapes

  • Trek through the stunning Muong Hoa Valley, admiring the terraced rice paddies and stunning panoramic views.
  • Visit Cat Cat Village, a H'mong village nestled in the valley, known for its traditional crafts and waterfalls.
  • Take a cable car or hike to the summit of Mount Fansipan, the "Roof of Indochina," for incredible views.
  • Explore the vibrant Sapa Town with its French colonial architecture and bustling market.
  • Discover the unique cultures of the H'mong, Dao, and other ethnic groups in their villages like Ta Van and Ta Phin.

Ninh Binh's "Ha Long Bay on Land"

  • Take a boat trip through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning limestone karsts and river caves.
  • Climb the steps to the Hang Mua viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the Tam Coc valley and winding rivers.
  • Rent a motorcycle and explore the Tam Coc area driving through the picturesque countryside, passing by rice fields and rural villages.
  • Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, and its historical temples.
  • Discover the serene Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of cave temples nestled into a mountainside.
  • Consider a visit to Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's oldest national park, for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park's Cave Wonders

  • Explore Son Doong Cave, one of the largest and most spectacular caves in the world (permit and tour required).
  • Discover Phong Nha Cave and Tien Son Cave by boat, marveling at their impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Kayak through the Dark Cave (Hang Toi) and experience its mud baths.
  • Visit Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave) with its stunning illuminated formations and vast chambers.
  • Explore the historical Vinh Moc Tunnels, an underground village used during the Vietnam War.
  • Hike through the park's diverse landscapes, including forests and river valleys.

Central & South Region

Hue: Imperial Citadel & Royal History

  • Explore the vast Hue Citadel (Imperial City), a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Wander through its palaces, temples, and gardens.
  • Take a boat trip along the Perfume River, enjoying the scenic views and the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-tiered pagoda and one of Hue's most recognizable landmarks.
  • Discover the elaborate Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors. Key tombs include Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, and Minh Mang.
  • Indulge in Hue's distinctive cuisine, known for its refined and flavorful dishes like Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and royal-style small dishes.
  • Rent a motorcycle/scooter and drive to Hoi an through the Hai van pass *Really recomended.

Hoi An: Ancient Town Charm & Tailoring

  • Wander through the enchanting Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with colorful lanterns and well-preserved architecture.
  • Cross the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An.
  • Explore the bustling Hoi An Central Market and the riverside promenade.
  • Visit the historic Chinese Assembly Halls, reflecting the town's trading past.
  • Relax on An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach, just a short distance from town.
  • Explore the nearby My Son Sanctuary, ancient Cham ruins dating back centuries.
  • Take a cooking class or get clothes tailored; two famous things the town is known for.

Da Lat: Highland Scenery & French Influence

  • Visit the quirky and colorful Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse)and the Maze bar for a fun night out.
  • Rent a motorcycle and explore the surrounding nature such as the Valley of Love (Thung Lung Tinh Yeu), the Datanla Falls and other beautiful places.
  • Explore the serene Xuan Huong Lake by boat or by walking along its shores.
  • Ride the cable car to the Truc Lam Zen Monastery for peaceful views.
  • Explore the French Quarter with its colonial-era villas and architecture.
  • Sample local specialties like artichoke tea and strawberry jam.
  • Visit the Langbiang Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding highlands.

Mui Ne: Beaches, Dunes & Water Sports

  • Relax on Mui Ne Beach, known for its long stretch of sand and windsurfing/kitesurfing conditions.
  • Explore the stunning Red Sand Dunes, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
  • Visit the unique Fairy Stream (Suoi Tien), a shallow stream with colorful sand formations.
  • Wander through the Mui Ne Fishing Village and witness the bustling morning market.
  • Discover the White Sand Dunes (Bau Trang), with its lotus lake and the option for ATV rides.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Bustling Metropolis & History

  • Visit the poignant War Remnants Museum for a perspective on the Vietnam War.
  • Explore the historic Reunification Palace (Independence Palace).
  • Wander through the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, beautiful examples of French colonial architecture.
  • Experience the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub for shopping and local food.
  • Delve into the underground Cu Chi Tunnels, used by the Viet Cong during the war.
  • Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the city's most important temples.
  • Enjoy the nightlife along Bui Vien Walking Street.

Phu Quoc Island: Beaches, Nature & Relaxation

  • Relax on the beautiful beaches like Long Beach (Bai Truong) or Ong Lang Beach.
  • Explore Phu Quoc National Park, a large area of protected forest and coastline.
  • Visit a pepper plantation, a key agricultural product of the island.
  • Discover a fish sauce factory and learn about its production.
  • Snorkel or dive in the clear waters around the An Thoi archipelago.
  • Take a cable car ride to Hon Thom Island for stunning views and beach activities.
  • Visit Dinh Cau Rock (Cau Temple) for sunset views.
  • Explore the Duong Dong Market, the island's main market town.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

Vietnam - 8 Weeks

Days 1-14: Hanoi & Northwest Highlands (Sapa & Ha Giang)

  • Explore the Old Quarter in Hanoi (markets, street food), Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature.
  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Museum.
  • Experience a traditional Water Puppet Show.
  • Enjoy the vibrant bar scene, including live music venues, dive bars and street food/drinks. Bia Hoi street offers a taste of local nightlife.
  • Take an overnight train or bus to Sapa.
  • Trek through the stunning Muong Hoa Valley and visit ethnic minority villages.
  • Explore Sapa Town and its markets. Optional: Hike or take the cable car to Mount Fansipan.
  • Rent a motorbike or join a guided tour for the Ha Giang Loop (allow 4-5 days).
  • Experience the dramatic landscapes of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark.
  • Drive along the Ma Pi Leng Pass.
  • Visit local ethnic villages and markets in Ha Giang.
  • Stay in local homestays along the Ha Giang Loop.

Days 15-23: Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh

  • Travel to Ha Long Bay.
  • Embark on a 2-3 day cruise through the stunning bay.
  • Explore caves like Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave.
  • Kayak through hidden lagoons and visit the floating fishing villages.
  • Arrive in Cat Ba and rent a motorcycle to explore the island.
  • Hike to viewpoints on Cat Ba Island: Trek to the Cannon Fort for historical insights and panoramic bay views.
  • Travel to Ninh Binh.
  • Take a boat trip through Trang An.
  • Rent a motorcycle and explore the Tam Coc rice paddies and waterways.
  • Climb to the Hang Mua viewpoint for panoramic views.
  • Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.

Days 24-33: Phong Nha-Ke Bang & Hue

  • Take an overnight train/bus to Dong Hoi.
  • Explore the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son Cave.
  • Visit Hang Son Doong cave, considered to be the largest cave in the world.
  • Explore the Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave), the Dark Cave and/or visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels.
  • Travel to Hue.
  • Explore the Imperial Citadel (Kinh Thanh).
  • Take a boat trip on the Perfume River.
  • Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda.
  • Discover the Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors (Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, Minh Mang).

Days 34-38: Hoi An

  • Rent a motorcycle/scooter and drive through the Hai van pass to Hoi An.
  • Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Ancient Town.
  • Cross the Japanese Covered Bridge.
  • Explore the bustling Hoi An Central Market.
  • Relax on An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach.
  • Optional: Visit the My Son Sanctuary.

Days 39-46: Central Highlands (Da Lat) & Coastal Relaxation (Mui Ne)

  • Travel to Da Lat in a night bus.
  • Visit the Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse) and the maze bar at night.
  • Rent a motorcycle and explore Xuan Huong Lake, Dantala Falls, and drive through the natural beauty of the valley of love.
  • Ride the cable car to Truc Lam Zen Monastery.
  • Explore the French Quarter architecture.
  • Travel to Mui Ne.
  • Relax on Mui Ne Beach.
  • Explore the Red and White Sand Dunes.
  • Visit the Fairy Stream (Suoi Tien).
  • Enjoy the Mui Ne Fishing Village and its fresh seafood.

Days 47-50: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

  • Travel to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
  • Visit the poignant War Remnants Museum (the Vietnam War).
  • Explore the historic Reunification Palace (Independence Palace).
  • Wander through the architectural gems of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
  • Experience the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market for shopping and local food.
  • Delve into the underground network of the Cu Chi Tunnels.
  • Visit the serene Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the city's most important temples.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife along Bui Vien Walking Street and its surroundings.
  • Catch a traditional Vietnamese performance at the Saigon Opera House.
  • Explore the street food scene beyond Ben Thanh Market, discovering local favorites.

Days 51-54: Mekong Delta (Short Trip)

  • Take a shorter trip to the Mekong Delta (e.g., 2-3 days).
  • Visit one of the floating markets (e.g., Cai Rang or a smaller, more local one).
  • Take a sampan ride through the canals.
  • Visit a rice noodle or coconut candy workshop.
  • Sample fresh tropical fruits in a local orchard.