We love —
- Exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, with its lively markets and centuries-old temples, offers an authentic glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
- Cruising Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, a UNESCO site, unveils stunning seascapes, a photographer’s paradise.
- Unwinding on Phu Quoc’s pristine beaches, where soft sands and clear waters create the perfect retreat.
Customer reviews —
You'll explore Vietnam's top tourist destinations, and your journey will culminate with a relaxing seaside experience on Phu Quoc Island, where you can witness stunning sunsets. We've carefully chosen delightful boutique hotels and luxurious 5-star hotels to ensure your trip is unforgettable.
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 12, 15 or 17 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Moderate
Explore Vietnam
Uncover Vietnam on an unforgettable journey from north to south, where ancient traditions, spectacular natural wonders and idyllic tropical beaches come together. Discover the timeless charm of Hanoi, cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, uncover the imperial heritage of Hue, wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, unwind on the white-sand beaches of Phu Quoc, and end your adventure in the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City.
Choose between 12, 15 or 17 nights, with longer itineraries allowing additional time to relax on the paradise island of Phu Quoc before completing your journey in southern Vietnam.
Choose the length of your stay:
12-night tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi
Day 3: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
Day 4: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi → Hue
Day 5: Hue
Day 6: Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An
Day 8: Hoi An → Da Nang → Phu Quoc
Day 9: Phu Quoc
Day 10: Phu Quoc
Day 11: Phu Quoc → Ho Chi Minh City
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 13: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
15-night tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi
Day 3: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
Day 4: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi → Hue
Day 5: Hue
Day 6: Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An
Day 8: Hoi An → Da Nang → Phu Quoc
Days 9-13: Phu Quoc
Day 14: Phu Quoc → Ho Chi Minh City
Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 16: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
17-night tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi
Day 3: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
Day 4: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi → Hue
Day 5: Hue
Day 6: Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An
Day 8: Hoi An → Da Nang → Phu Quoc
Days 9-15: Phu Quoc
Day 16: Phu Quoc → Ho Chi Minh City
Day 17: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 18: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
12-NIGHT TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI
Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), meet your local representative before your private transfer to your hotel in Hanoi. The rest of the day is yours to unwind after your journey or begin discovering the vibrant atmosphere of Vietnam's captivating capital.
Included :
- Private transfer from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 2: HANOI
Spend the day exploring the cultural heart of Hanoi, where centuries-old temples, elegant boulevards and bustling streets reveal the city's fascinating history. Discover some of the capital's most iconic landmarks before wandering through the atmospheric Old Quarter, renowned for its vibrant street life and delicious local cuisine.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 3: HANOI → HA LONG BAY
Travel to the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone islands rise dramatically from emerald waters. Board your elegant cruise and settle in before enjoying a leisurely afternoon sailing through one of Asia's most spectacular natural landscapes.
Included :
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Shared limousine transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
- Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay
DAY 4: HA LONG BAY → HANOI → HUE
Begin the morning with a peaceful cruise through Ha Long Bay, admiring the magnificent limestone formations one last time before returning to shore. Transfer back to Hanoi, then continue to the airport for your included domestic flight to the former imperial capital of Hue.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Brunch on board
- Disembarkation from the cruise
- Shared transfer from Ha Long Bay to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
- Domestic flight Hanoi (HAN) → Hue (HUI)
- Private transfer from Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 5: HUE
Explore the imperial heritage of Hue, once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Visit magnificent royal monuments, peaceful pagodas and traditional villages before cruising along the romantic Perfume River, discovering one of Vietnam's most culturally significant cities.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 6: HUE → DA NANG → HOI AN
Travel south along Vietnam's spectacular central coastline towards the charming town of Hoi An. En route, stop in Da Nang to admire the impressive Marble Mountains before continuing to one of the country's most beautifully preserved trading ports.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 7: HOI AN
Spend the day discovering the timeless beauty of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its lantern-lined streets, historic merchant houses and riverside charm. Learn about local craftsmanship before enjoying free time to explore at your own pace.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 8: HOI AN → DA NANG → PHU QUOC
Leave central Vietnam behind as you transfer to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your included domestic flight to the idyllic island of Phu Quoc. Upon arrival, transfer to your beachfront resort and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Da Nang International Airport (DAD)
- Domestic flight Da Nang (DAD) → Phu Quoc (PQC)
- Private transfer from Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 9: PHU QUOC
Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure on the tropical island of Phu Quoc. Spend your time unwinding on golden beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters or simply making the most of your hotel's facilities.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 10: PHU QUOC
Another day is yours to experience Phu Quoc at your own pace. Discover hidden coves, enjoy optional water activities or simply relax beside the sea and soak up the island's laid-back atmosphere.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 11: PHU QUOC → HO CHI MINH CITY
Fly to dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, where colonial architecture, bustling streets and modern skyscrapers blend to create an exciting final stop on your journey.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)
- Domestic flight Phu Quoc (PQC) → Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
- Private transfer from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 12: HO CHI MINH CITY
Discover the fascinating contrasts of Ho Chi Minh City, where French colonial heritage meets modern Vietnamese life. Explore the city's iconic landmarks and lively streets before enjoying your final evening in Vietnam.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 13: DEPARTURE FROM HO CHI MINH CITY
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your private transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of your journey through Vietnam.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
15-NIGHT TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI
Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), meet your local representative before your private transfer to your hotel in Hanoi. The rest of the day is yours to unwind after your journey or begin discovering the vibrant atmosphere of Vietnam's captivating capital.
Included :
- Private transfer from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 2: HANOI
Spend the day exploring the cultural heart of Hanoi, where centuries-old temples, elegant boulevards and bustling streets reveal the city's fascinating history. Discover some of the capital's most iconic landmarks before wandering through the atmospheric Old Quarter, renowned for its vibrant street life and delicious local cuisine.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 3: HANOI → HA LONG BAY
Travel to the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone islands rise dramatically from emerald waters. Board your elegant cruise and settle in before enjoying a leisurely afternoon sailing through one of Asia's most spectacular natural landscapes.
Included :
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Shared limousine transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
- Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay
DAY 4: HA LONG BAY → HANOI → HUE
Begin the morning with a peaceful cruise through Ha Long Bay, admiring the magnificent limestone formations one last time before returning to shore. Transfer back to Hanoi, then continue to the airport for your included domestic flight to the former imperial capital of Hue.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Brunch on board
- Disembarkation from the cruise
- Shared transfer from Ha Long Bay to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
- Domestic flight Hanoi (HAN) → Hue (HUI)
- Private transfer from Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 5: HUE
Explore the imperial heritage of Hue, once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Visit magnificent royal monuments, peaceful pagodas and traditional villages before cruising along the romantic Perfume River, discovering one of Vietnam's most culturally significant cities.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 6: HUE → DA NANG → HOI AN
Travel south along Vietnam's spectacular central coastline towards the charming town of Hoi An. En route, stop in Da Nang to admire the impressive Marble Mountains before continuing to one of the country's most beautifully preserved trading ports.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 7: HOI AN
Spend the day discovering the timeless beauty of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its lantern-lined streets, historic merchant houses and riverside charm. Learn about local craftsmanship before enjoying free time to explore at your own pace.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 8: HOI AN → DA NANG → PHU QUOC
Leave central Vietnam behind as you transfer to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your included domestic flight to the idyllic island of Phu Quoc. Upon arrival, transfer to your beachfront resort and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Da Nang International Airport (DAD)
- Domestic flight Da Nang (DAD) → Phu Quoc (PQC)
- Private transfer from Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAYS 9-13: PHU QUOC
Enjoy five relaxing days on the tropical island of Phu Quoc, where palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters and a laid-back atmosphere invite you to slow down and unwind. Whether you choose to relax by the pool, discover hidden coves, sample fresh seafood or explore the island at your own pace, these days are entirely yours to enjoy.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
Suggestions:
- Long Beach
- Sao Beach
- Phu Quoc Night Market
- Optional snorkelling excursion
- Fresh seafood and Vietnamese coffee
DAY 14: PHU QUOC → HO CHI MINH CITY
Fly to dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, where colonial architecture, bustling streets and modern skyscrapers blend to create an exciting final stop on your journey.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)
- Domestic flight Phu Quoc (PQC) → Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
- Private transfer from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 15: HO CHI MINH CITY
Discover the fascinating contrasts of Ho Chi Minh City, where French colonial heritage meets modern Vietnamese life. Explore the city's iconic landmarks and lively streets before enjoying your final evening in Vietnam.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 16: DEPARTURE FROM HO CHI MINH CITY
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your private transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of your journey through Vietnam.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
17-NIGHT TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI
Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), meet your local representative before your private transfer to your hotel in Hanoi. The rest of the day is yours to unwind after your journey or begin discovering the vibrant atmosphere of Vietnam's captivating capital.
Included :
- Private transfer from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 2: HANOI
Spend the day exploring the cultural heart of Hanoi, where centuries-old temples, elegant boulevards and bustling streets reveal the city's fascinating history. Discover some of the capital's most iconic landmarks before wandering through the atmospheric Old Quarter, renowned for its vibrant street life and delicious local cuisine.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 3: HANOI → HA LONG BAY
Travel to the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone islands rise dramatically from emerald waters. Board your elegant cruise and settle in before enjoying a leisurely afternoon sailing through one of Asia's most spectacular natural landscapes.
Included :
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Shared limousine transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
- Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay
DAY 4: HA LONG BAY → HANOI → HUE
Begin the morning with a peaceful cruise through Ha Long Bay, admiring the magnificent limestone formations one last time before returning to shore. Transfer back to Hanoi, then continue to the airport for your included domestic flight to the former imperial capital of Hue.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Brunch on board
- Disembarkation from the cruise
- Shared transfer from Ha Long Bay to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
- Domestic flight Hanoi (HAN) → Hue (HUI)
- Private transfer from Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 5: HUE
Explore the imperial heritage of Hue, once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Visit magnificent royal monuments, peaceful pagodas and traditional villages before cruising along the romantic Perfume River, discovering one of Vietnam's most culturally significant cities.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 6: HUE → DA NANG → HOI AN
Travel south along Vietnam's spectacular central coastline towards the charming town of Hoi An. En route, stop in Da Nang to admire the impressive Marble Mountains before continuing to one of the country's most beautifully preserved trading ports.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 7: HOI AN
Spend the day discovering the timeless beauty of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its lantern-lined streets, historic merchant houses and riverside charm. Learn about local craftsmanship before enjoying free time to explore at your own pace.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 8: HOI AN → DA NANG → PHU QUOC
Leave central Vietnam behind as you transfer to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your included domestic flight to the idyllic island of Phu Quoc. Upon arrival, transfer to your beachfront resort and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Da Nang International Airport (DAD)
- Domestic flight Da Nang (DAD) → Phu Quoc (PQC)
- Private transfer from Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAYS 9-15: PHU QUOC
Spend seven unforgettable days enjoying the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc. Relax on idyllic beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, discover the island's natural beauty or simply enjoy the facilities of your resort. With plenty of free time, this extended stay is the perfect opportunity to embrace Vietnam's island lifestyle.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
Suggestions:
- Long Beach
- Sao Beach
- Phu Quoc Night Market
- Optional snorkelling excursion
- Fresh seafood and Vietnamese coffee
DAY 16: PHU QUOC → HO CHI MINH CITY
Fly to dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, where colonial architecture, bustling streets and modern skyscrapers blend to create an exciting final stop on your journey.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)
- Domestic flight Phu Quoc (PQC) → Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
- Private transfer from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to your hotel
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 17: HO CHI MINH CITY
Discover the fascinating contrasts of Ho Chi Minh City, where French colonial heritage meets modern Vietnamese life. Explore the city's iconic landmarks and lively streets before enjoying your final evening in Vietnam.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Night at a 4* or 5* hotel, depending on your chosen itinerary
DAY 18: DEPARTURE FROM HO CHI MINH CITY
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your private transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of your journey through Vietnam.
Included :
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
Important information about your tour and visits The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in Standard Rooms in thoughtfully selected hotels. You can choose between a carefully curated selection of 4* and 5* hotels, or enjoy an upgraded experience with accommodation exclusively in 5* hotels throughout your journey.
Your 4* and 5* hotels (or similar):
Hanoi: The Q Hotel 4*
Ha Long Bay: La Regina Grand Cruise 5*
Hue: Senna Hue 5*
Hoi An: Legacy Hoi An 4*
Phu Quoc: Anja Beach Resort & Spa 4*
Ho Chi Minh City: Silverland Jolie Hotel 4*
Your 5* hotels (or similar):
Hanoi: Pan Pacific Hanoi 5* or Melia hotel 5*
Ha Long Bay: Indochine Cruise 5*
Hue: Senna Hue 5*
Hoi An: Wafaifo Resort Hoi An 5*
Phu Quoc: Chean Sea Boutique Resort or Grand Ocean Beay Resort
Ho Chi Minh City: Mai House Saigon 5*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Additional benefits in select hotels:
- For stays at Legacy Hoi An 4*:
10% discount on food, drinks & laundry service
15% discount on spa treatments
- For stays at The Q Hotel 4* :
10% discount on food, drinks
10% discount on spa treatments
- For stays at Silverland Jolie 4*:
1 x afternoon tea (per person, per stay)
Complimentary use of steam bath, Jacuzzi & pool
Minibar in room on arrival
- For stays at Wafaifo 5*:
10% discount on food, drinks & laundry
- For stays at Chen Sea Boutique Resort 5*
1 x cocktail per person, per stay
10% discount on full board per person, per stay (not combinable with other promotions or special packages)
20% discount on spa treatments per person, per stay (not combinable with other promotions or special packages)
- For stays at Mai House 5*:
10% discount on food & drinks at hotel restaurant
10% discount on spa services
Single rooms are available at an extra cost. The maximum room capacity is 3 adults or 3 adults + 1 baby.
Your dining choices
During your tour and your extension in Vietnam, you will enjoy a bed and breakfast stay.
Your included extras —
English-speaking guide
An experienced English-speaking guide will accompany you according to the itinerary, bringing each destination’s history and culture to life.
3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.
Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.
Your optional excursions & extras —
Stay connected with an unlimited data plan
Add an unlimited mobile data plan to stay connected with complete freedom, without any risk of exceeding your allowance. Activate your eSIM and enjoy continuous connectivity wherever you go: share the internet with your loved ones, find the best places around you, use your GPS without stress and enjoy your favourite apps to the full, without worrying about your usage.
Day 5: The royal charm of Hue
Discover Hue, the former imperial capital with magnificent architecture in its citadel, palaces, royal tombs, garden houses, pagodas and temples, built during the Nguyen dynasty on the banks of the Perfume River.
Day 9: Snorkelling and sunset barbecue dinner on the islet of Phu Quoc
Head out to sea for an afternoon of sun and snorkelling.
Day 12: The Cu Chi tunnels and exploring Ho Chi Minh City on foot
Discover the incredible Cu Chi Tunnels, originally dug as a base for guerrilla actions against the French and during the Indochina War.
Day 12: Mekong Delta off the beaten track by bike on Cai Thia island (minimum 2 people)
Discover Cai Thia, one of the largest fruit-growing areas in the Mekong Delta, located 2h30 from Ho Chi Minh City, in the province of Tien Giang.
Your journey to Vietnam —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Hanoi
Nestled in the northern heart of Vietnam, Hanoi boasts a history that stretches over a millennium, making it a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern vitality. Its dynamic culture, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality invite exploration. Whether wandering through bustling streets or peaceful temples, Hanoi offers a remarkable journey into the soul of Vietnam.
Must-sees:
- The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the leader’s embalmed body rests, is a poignant tribute to Vietnam’s revolutionary history.
- The serene Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by temples and parks, offers a tranquil escape in the city's heart.
- The Temple of Literature, an ancient site of education, is a stunning example of Vietnamese architecture and heritage.
Culinary culture:
Hanoi is renowned for its culinary offerings, with street food playing a central role in the city’s vibrant food culture. Indulge in pho, a fragrant noodle soup, or enjoy the iconic banh mi, a fusion of French and Vietnamese ingredients. For a more authentic experience, seek out lesser-known dishes such as bun thang, a delicate noodle soup, or cha ca, a local fish dish. Eating here is an exploration of flavours, from spicy to savoury, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Dive deeper:
For those seeking a richer cultural experience, venture beyond the main tourist sites. Explore the lesser-known Museum of Ethnology, where diverse tribal cultures of Vietnam are beautifully displayed. Take a walk through the Old Quarter’s labyrinthine streets, where centuries-old architecture mingles with local craft shops. A boat trip to the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a scenic backdrop to Hanoi’s cultural and natural beauty.
Good to know:
The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with the best times to visit being between September and November, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Hanoi is well-connected by a comprehensive public transport system, but taxis and motorbike rentals are also convenient options for navigating the city.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s bustling economic and cultural epicentre. A dynamic metropolis, it fuses modernity with a rich historical legacy. From towering skyscrapers to historic French colonial architecture, the city is a melting pot of influences. Its vibrant energy permeates the streets, offering an exciting destination for travellers seeking a mix of tradition and innovation.
Must-sees:
- The War Remnants Museum, a powerful historical site, offers an insightful look at Vietnam’s turbulent past.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, an iconic French colonial landmark, stands as a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur.
- The Ben Thanh Market is perfect for exploring local crafts, food, and souvenirs in a lively atmosphere.
Culinary culture:
Ho Chi Minh City’s food scene is as diverse as its history. With its street food culture thriving, visitors can sample everything from sizzling pho and banh mi to lesser-known delights like com tam (broken rice with grilled pork) and hu tieu (noodle soup). The city also offers a range of fusion dishes, where Vietnamese flavours meet international influences. Whether dining at a high-end restaurant or a roadside stall, food in Ho Chi Minh City is an essential experience.
Dive deeper:
For a more authentic exploration, venture into the city’s less touristy districts. Discover the Cholon, Saigon’s Chinatown, where you can stroll through bustling markets and sample Chinese-Vietnamese delicacies. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a beautifully ornate temple steeped in local religious traditions. For a quiet retreat, explore the tranquil Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in the world, offering a glimpse into the city's history and natural beauty.
Good to know:
The currency used in Ho Chi Minh City is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when temperatures are comfortable. While public transport is limited, taxis and motorbikes are popular and easy to use. The city is also home to numerous international airports, making it a well-connected gateway to Southeast Asia.
Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc, an island paradise in the Gulf of Thailand, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural authenticity. Once a quiet retreat, the island is now a vibrant destination for both relaxation and adventure. Lined with white sandy beaches and surrounded by lush tropical jungle, Phu Quoc invites exploration beyond its burgeoning tourist spots.
Must-sees:
- Long Beach, with its tranquil waters and sunsets, remains one of the island's most stunning stretches of sand.
- The untouched beauty of Sao Beach provides a peaceful retreat, far from the bustling crowds.
- The Vinpearl Safari, a sprawling wildlife reserve, offers a glimpse into the island’s diverse ecosystem.
Culinary culture:
Phu Quoc’s cuisine is defined by its fresh, coastal ingredients, with nuoc mam (fish sauce) being a key element. Locally made and globally revered, this high-quality fish sauce is an essential flavour in the island’s dishes. Seafood lovers will delight in freshly caught fish, crab, and shrimp, often grilled or prepared with fragrant herbs. For a truly local experience, visit one of the many beachside restaurants for a dinner of grilled fish or a delicious bowl of pho. The island is also famous for its black pepper, which adds a distinct flavour to both dishes and souvenirs.
Dive deeper:
For those keen to explore further, Phu Quoc offers a range of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Explore the island’s lush jungles on foot or by motorcycle, discovering hidden waterfalls and remote fishing villages. Dive beneath the surface to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or take a boat tour to nearby islands. The island’s National Park is also home to a wealth of biodiversity, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Good to know:
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency. Phu Quoc enjoys a tropical climate, with the best time to visit being from November to March, when the weather is dry and mild. While tourism infrastructure is growing, there are still plenty of untouched areas. Public transport is limited, so renting a motorbike or using taxis is recommended for getting around the island.