Vietnam Destinations
The best places to visit in Vietnam
Vietnam might be a small country, but there is certainly a lot to see. The country’s 3,000-kilometre long coastline means that the north, south and even center of the country can seem completely different to each other at times; different people, different food, different culture, wildly different histories.
Whether it’s trekking through the misty mountains of the north, biking around the coastal jungle of the center, or traversing fertile deltas on a tug boat in the south, it’s important to get to know your destinations in advance to make sure you make the most of your time in Vietnam.
Sapa
Hanoi
Hoi An
Halong Bay
Mekong Delta
Frequently asked questions
1. How long should I spend in Hanoi?
2 to 3 days is ideal to explore most of Hanoi's highlights, such as the Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, or Vietnam Ethnology Museum. However, if you have only 1 day, you still can have a glimpse of Hanoi with the iconic spots like Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Hanoi Saint Joseph's, and maybe a street food tour to experience the bustling atmosphere and local cuisine.
2. How to get to Halong from Hanoi?
You can choose one of many ways such as local bus, limousine bus, cruise bus, taxi/private car, seaplane/helicopter. Below are the highlights of each way:
- Local bus: most economical way, long travel, language barriers, potential scam.
- Limousine bus/cruise bus: more comfortable, affordable price, fewer pickup/dropoff location, shorter time.
- Taxi/private car: high price, comfortable, private, door-to-door service, most time-saving.
- Seaplane/helicopter: most expensive, unique experience, bird-eye view, limited luggage (7kg).
3. When is the best time for trekking in Sapa?
The best time for mountain trekking in Sapa are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) thanks to dry, cool weather. Spring offers stunning plum blossoms and azalea, while Autumn showcases golden rice terraces and spectacular cloud seas on top of Fansipan Peak.
4. Are 2 days enough for Hoi An discovery?
While Hoi An offers plenty of attractions for more than 2 days, most travelers find 2 days sufficient to explore the enchanting ancient town with its lantern-lit streets and distinctive architecture, cycle through surrounding rice paddies, visit traditional craft villages, and experience the lively Hoi An Night Market.
5. What beach is most beautiful in Nha Trang?
Nha Trang is famous for its captivating coastline and many beautiful beaches. If you are staying in the city center, Tran Phu Beach offers stunning scenery and convenient access. Other exceptional beaches include Bai Dai Beach (Long Beach), Doc Let Beach, and Hon Tam Beach.
6. Are there any day tours from Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes, you can join some one-day tours from Ho Chi Minh to Cu Chi Tunnel (approx. 70 km), Vung Tau (approx. 100 km), or Mekong Delta (approx. 160km).
7. When is the best time to visit the Mekong Delta?
For the most ideal weather, the dry season (December - April) is the best time to visit the Mekong Delta. Ample sunlight, pleasant temperatures, and blooming flowers is perfect for outdoor activities. Expect crowds and higher prices during dry season.
While the wet season (May - November) is not as convenient as the dry one, visitors can have the best boat experiences during "floating season" (August - November) thanks to the high water level for deep forest navigation and great orchard visits during fruit harvest season (June-August). Wet season also offers fewer crowds with lower prices.
