Flying to Vietnam - a beautiful country in Southeast Asia. Coming here, you will have time to discover the hidden charm of the country throughout the best tourist attractions.
Hanoi
The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is the center for economy, politics and Vietnamese culture. It is the second largest city in Vietnam and a must see for tourists. World famous Halong Bay and Sapa are at your fingertips.
Most tourism is centered around the Old Quarter, and here is where the city comes alive. Everything you want and need can be found here. It is also home to some beautiful architecture if you can remember to cast your eyes upward. Your senses will be overloaded by the sound of motorbikes everywhere and a persistent chorus of enthusiastic horns. Most importantly, the smells from the many restaurants and street vendors will get your mouth watering, only to be rewarded by the culinary treats that await .
An early morning walk around Hoan Kiem Lake is well worth getting up for. The city is just beginning to stir, and the transition between tranquility and madness is something to behold.
Halong
A pleasant city in Northeastern Vietnam, Halong City is perhaps best known for the UNESCO World Heritage listed Halong Bay on it‘s doorstep. The bay is truly a natural wonder. Thousands of limestone islands tipped with thick jungle rise dramatically from the ocean, like the dragons fabled to have made their homes here thousands of years ago.
As the number one tourist attraction for the Northeast, Halong Bay attracts thousands of foreign tourists every year. Halong Bay is at it‘s best in the warm months, when a cruise will give you that perfect holiday feeling. The food on the boat is delicious, the cabins large and comfortable, and lounging on the top deck with a cold drink with the magnificent backdrop of the bay is an unforgettable experience, especially at sunset.
Sapa
Sapa is the other must-see destination when traveling in the north of Vietnam. Located in the deep northwest, it is a hot spot for tourists, especially those who are seeking cool relief.
Sapa is most famous for the minority groups that inhabit this mountainous terrain. Friendly and unique, the people will greet you with genuine smiles as wide as the surrounding vistas. They will also be more than happy to sell you traditional handmade clothes, bags and all manner of attractive souvenirs.
Whether staying in a hotel or in a traditional home, the views are truly stunning, and the people kind and hospitable. For serious trekkers there are challenging climbs, or for a more leisurely visit, less strenuous options are always on offer.
Hue
Hue served as the political capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945, but is now regarded as the intellectual capital with its‘ abundance of universities and schools.
Rich with history, within the city lies many historical sites and decaying treasures, such as the Citadel and the sprawling Imperial City.
Also within easy reach is Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most iconic structures in Vietnam. The opulent tombs of the Nguyen emperors are suitably regal and share the banks of the Perfume River with the Pagoda. Both can be viewed by any one of the many boat tours on offer.
If you have the time, take a trip out to the nearby beaches or stray a little off the beaten path to Elephant Springs, a favorite with the locals.
Hoi An
Take a deep breath and escape to the laid back beauty of Hoi An. The slow pace of this little old town is a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities.
In the 17th century Hoi An was an international trading port, and influences from China, Japan and Europe are still evident in the local art and architecture. Recognizing its uniqueness, UNESCO listed Hoi An as a World Heritage site.
While the town is a great place to relax and observe the locals, it is perhaps most famous for the shopping. The number of tailors now number over 400, and with a steady stream of foreign tourists wanting suits, shoes or that special piece ‘made to fit‘, it is no wonder. The beautiful Cua Dai beach is also nearby.
Nhatrang
If you enjoy sitting on the beachfront and drinking cocktails in Western-style comfort, then this is for you! Nha Trang is well known for its pristine beaches and is becoming more and more popular with international tourists.
The city is located on the beautiful Nha Trang bay, where the clean white sands and clear blue waters, combined with mild temperatures all year round make this a welcome addition to any itinerary.
The coast is dotted with mountains, and the bay with numerous islands and archipelagos which offer ample opportunities for holiday fun. Along with luxurious accommodation and the usual share of delicious food, all of these features combine to make Nhatrang the ultimate resort city in Vietnam.
Saigon
The largest city in Vietnam, Saigon boasts a population over 7 million, and this vibrant and somewhat chaotic city is evidence of this. If Hanoi is home to a motorbike chorus, then Saigon is the full choir. The populace swarms around you on their two wheeled steeds, with horns that seem to be stuck on high volume.
Tourists are spoiled for choice in this bustling metropolis, where everything is on offer. The food is world class, bargains abound in markets with maze like aisles that seem to never end, and different attractions are around every corner, from the stunningly beautiful to the deeply moving.
For a taste of history, head to the Reunification Palace, or escape to the parks surrounding it that serve as a welcome respite from the chaos.