Vietnam

The North of Vietnam

Hanoi

First, the capital blends Vietnamese traditions with French colonial charm. Stroll through the Old Quarter, admire Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the Temple of Literature. However, crossing the street takes practice: walk slowly and steadily through the scooters. Read our Hanoi guide.

Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa

Nearby, Halong Bay has thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald water. So, an overnight cruise is a highlight. Also, Ninh Binh offers similar scenery on land, with boat trips through caves and rice fields. In the mountains, Sapa is famous for rice terraces and ethnic minority villages.

Central Vietnam

Further south, Hue was the imperial capital, with its Citadel and royal tombs along the Perfume River. Then, Da Nang offers long beaches and the Marble Mountains. Nearby, Hoi An charms with lantern-lit streets, old merchant houses and fast tailors.

In addition, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has some of the largest caves in the world. For example, Son Doong is considered the biggest known cave on the planet.

The South of Vietnam

In the south, Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon, buzzes with energy. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market and the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels. Then, explore the Mekong Delta and its floating markets. For quiet beaches, the Con Dao Islands are a hidden gem.

A Short History of Vietnam

For about a thousand years, the north was ruled by China. Then, Vietnamese dynasties built temples and citadels, such as Hue in the 19th century. Later, the country became part of French Indochina.

After independence was declared in 1945, long wars followed, against France and then involving the United States. Finally, the country reunified in 1975. Since the 1980s, economic reforms have transformed it into one of Asia’s fastest-growing nations.

Food in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, light and full of herbs. For example, try pho noodle soup, banh mi sandwiches, bun cha in Hanoi and fresh spring rolls. In Hoi An, taste cao lau noodles. Read more in our Vietnamese cuisine guide.

Street food is cheap and delicious, often eaten on tiny plastic stools. Also, do not miss Vietnamese coffee, strong and sweet with condensed milk. In Hanoi, moreover, try egg coffee, a creamy local speciality.

Festivals and Events

• January or February: Tet, the Lunar New Year, is the biggest celebration. However, many shops close for several days.
• Every month: Hoi An holds a lantern night on the full moon.
• September or October: the Mid-Autumn Festival brings lanterns and mooncakes.
• 2 September: National Day is celebrated with flags and fireworks.

Practical Tips

• Use ride-hailing apps: Grab is cheap and avoids price surprises.
• Carry cash: markets and street food stalls only take dong.
• Count the zeros: notes have many zeros, so check before paying.
• Dress modestly in temples: cover shoulders and knees.
• Plan for the weather: the north, centre and south have different seasons.

For more ideas, see the official Vietnam tourism website.