Destination Escapes

Vietnam
Travel Guide

Your complete archive to all articles about Vietnam travel and food. This includes our latest Vietnam travel stories, Vietnam travel and city guides, Vietnam travel itineraries, travel resources, photo inspiration and essays, Vietnam planning tools & tips, Vietnam tour suggestions, and more.

Vietnam map
VIETNAM AT A GLANCE

VIETNAM

Vietnam is a country rich in history and culture, shaped by ancient dynasties and colonial influences.

As you travel through Vietnam, you’ll encounter some of the world’s most iconic sites, with history spanning over a thousand years in places such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay, just to name a few.

CURRENCY

Vietnam Dong (VND)

BEST TIME TO VISIT

March and April, September to November

FUN FACT

Dating back to 11th century, water puppetry is a traditional form of entertainment.

LANGUAGES

Vietnamese

CAPITAL

Hanoi

IN A WORD

Troi oi!
(Oh, my!)

Explore Vietnam: The Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam is a captivating country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture that enthrals travellers. From the ancient streets of Hanoi to the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam offers diverse experiences for all types of travellers.

 

The country’s historical significance is evident in its well-preserved landmarks, such as the Imperial City of Hue, the ancient town of Hoi An, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Each region has a unique charm, from the terraced rice fields of Sapa to the breathtaking limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta’s lush waterways.

Vietnam’s Bucket List: 23 Things You Must Do in Vietnam
Top 23 Must-Do Experiences in Vietnam: Your Ultimate Bucket List

Furthermore, Vietnam is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Vietnamese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its delicious flavours and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re savouring a bowl of pho in Hanoi, enjoying a banh mi sandwich in Ho Chi Minh City, or indulging in fresh seafood in Da Nang, the culinary delights are endless. Pair your meals with some of the finest local egg coffee or rice wine, and you’ll understand why Vietnam is a top destination for foodies.

My husband John and I have travelled to Vietnam several times, immersing ourselves in its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. We’ve explored the rural countryside by boat, train, and bicycle, savoured the delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and visited numerous ancient landmarks. One of the highlights of our trips was trekking through the stunning terraced rice fields of Sapa, where we experienced the vibrant ethnic minority cultures in all their colourful glory.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Vietnam with our comprehensive travel guide, filled with captivating stories and practical tips. Dive into the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), marvel at the stunning limestone formations of Ha Long Bay, wander through the charming ancient town of Hoi An, and explore the historic and cultural treasures of Hanoi. Let us guide you through these iconic destinations and more, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

Trekking Sapa Vietnam
Sapa, Vietnam: A 3-Day Travel Itinerary for First-timers
Bac Ha Market Vietnam
Why You Should Journey to Bac Ha Market Vietnam

Bucket List Magic Moments

location_on Hanoi Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter: Photograph the bustling streets and discover hidden gems. location_on Vietnam Top 23 Must-Do Experiences in Vietnam: Your Ultimate Bucket List location_on Sapa Trek Sapa's Rice Terraces: Hike through stunning landscapes and meet ethnic minorities. location_on Hue Tour the Imperial City: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. location_on Ha Long Bay Cruise Ha Long Bay: Sail through emerald waters and towering limestone islands. location_on Ho Chi Minh City Ride a motorbike in District 1: Navigate the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City like a local. location_on Vietnam Devour Street Food: Indulge in delicious Vietnamese street food while sitting on tiny plastic stools. location_on Hanoi Taste Pho in Hanoi: Savour the flavours of Vietnam's iconic noodle soup. Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter: Wander the bustling streets and discover hidden photographic gems. 3 Top 23 Must-Do Experiences in Vietnam: Your Ultimate Bucket List 1 Trek Sapa's Rice Terraces: Hike through stunning landscapes and meet ethnic minorities. 2 Tour the Imperial City: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. 4 5 Cruise Ha Long Bay: Sail through emerald waters and towering limestone islands. 7 Ride a Cyclo in District 1: Navigate the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City like a local. Devour Street Food: Indulge in delicious Vietnamese street food while sitting on tiny plastic stools. 6 Taste Pho in Hanoi: Savour the flavours of Vietnam's iconic noodle soup. 8

Vietnam Travel Planning
VIETNAM

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From Hanoi to the Highlands: The Ultimate 3-Day Sapa Itinerary for Beginners

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