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Vietnam is one of those travel destinations that’s a bit of an if you know, you know. As in, if you let it, Vietnam will change your life. This long, narrow nation that winds along the sea calls to mind why we travel in the first place. The cuisine, for starters, is easy to fall for. While many Southeast Asian countries are known for flavors so spicy you need to keep a glass of milk within arm’s reach, Vietnam is all about the balance, with heaps of fresh herbs and plenty of fish sauce to accompany. (Here are 45 must-eat Vietnamese dishes to brush up on ahead of time.)
As for the landscapes, prepare to be accosted by beauty. Limestone karsts jutting upward from emerald green water, ancient rivers that snake through dense mangrove forests, misty mountains traced with rice terraces… the list goes on. And the culture. Over the millennia, Vietnam has been imprinted by conflict and occupation, but always emerging with an identity fiercely its own. Traveling here offers the privilege of contextualizing all of this through architecture, art, and craft. The country’s artisan communities, in particular, enrich all touches of everyday life, from basket weaving to hand-painted lanterns.
And though it can be tempting to hide yourself away in a secluded bay or mountain village the whole visit, don’t stop there. Beyond its otherworldly beaches and countrysides, you’ll find Vietnam’s beating pulse in cities like Hanoi, where successfully crossing through an intersection of racing motorbikes can feel akin to Moses parting the red sea. The energy can’t be beat.
As for logistics, Phi Cao from Tonkin Travel suggests 10 to 14 days for a well-rounded visit to Vietnam. “We usually recommend Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam for cultural heritage and natural beauty. Huế, Hội An, Da Nang in central Vietnam for history, charm, and beaches. Then Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam for dynamic energy and local life.” Ahead, 23 experiences that touch down in all of these destinations and beyond.
Watch the World Go By From a Tiny Stool
Hanoi hasn’t been experienced properly until you’ve squatted down to enjoy a meal atop a tiny stool. At lunch, the city’s sidewalks come alive as street food vendors dish out their chosen specialties to these low-to-the-ground masses. “If I have friends visiting I definitely recommend they live as a local for a few days, eating on small stools in a crowded eatery, watching the time pass by, and seeing how the city’s rhythm changes hour after hour,” Pham Tien Tiep says, who is the co-founder of award-winning Nê cocktail bar.
Invest in Made-to-Measure Tailoring
Vietnam’s longstanding reputation for high-quality tailoring still holds true, with skilled artisans rendering custom-made pieces on a quick turnaround. The ancient town of Hội An is home to the highest density of tailors that cater to tourists, but for those visiting Saigon, don’t miss the opportunity to visit designer Cong Tri, whose designs have been worn by stars like Cynthia Erivo, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Lisa, among countless others. “Visit our store to experience the bespoke made-to-measure service crafted by Vietnamese hands in the Cong Tri atelier,” he tells Vogue.
Visit a Floating Market at Dawn
For travelers intent on immersing themselves in authentic Vietnam, you’ll need to set your alarm clock. “If you’re looking for a quintessential experience, visit a floating market in the Mekong Delta at dawn,” Phi Cao, the managing director of Tonkin Travel says. Gliding through these vibrant waterways reveals a colorful spectacle, particularly at sunrise, when the market is most active with locals.
Catch a Performance at Saigon Opera House
Saigon’s elegant opera house was built in the French Colonial style and is an imposing national relic to behold. It’s also where Tri takes friends when they’re in town. “There are live performances of stage art, contemporary dance, and more recently, shows like the À Ố Show, which blends contemporary choreography with folk storytelling in a space that’s both historic and iconic.”
Take a Scenic Train Ride on The Vietage
For those with a proclivity for luxury train travel, reserve your seat on The Vietage by Anantara. This glamorous journey whisks passengers along secluded coastlines, through mountain passes, and into grassy fields. There is seating for only 12 passengers and the ride includes gourmet dining, free-flowing beverages, plus head and shoulder treatments. Two separate carriages (each with six private booths) run daily journeys in opposite directions, one departing in the morning from Da Nang to Quy Nhon and then on to Nha Trang, and the second leaving Nha Trang in the afternoon to Quy Nhon and then continuing up to Da Nang.
Motorbike the Ha Giang Loop
Adventurous types itching to get out on the open road, take note: the Ha Giang Loop in the northern reaches of Vietnam will change your life. This bucket list road trip runs around 230 miles and takes about four days to complete with stops. And stops you must take! Along the way, expect to see it all—limestone karsts, turquoise rivers, forested hillsides that lead to friendly towns with roadside food stalls and coffee spots. Arguably the most astonishing stretch is between Đồng Văn and Mã Pí Lèng Pass, where you’ll be surrounded by massive peaks and dramatic valley floor.
Visit With Local Artisans
Vietnam and craft are inextricably tethered. And not just in the ornamental sense, but across every aspect of life, from the traditional woven baskets used by fishermen, to the handmade ceramics for tea ceremonies. At Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô, guests and a guide immerse in the neighboring village to experience these traditions firsthand. “You’ll explore the local market, basket weaving, and rice-cracker-making,” Nguyen Hoang says, who is the head of guest services at the property. “After a short ride in a Vietnamese basket boat, you’ll enjoy a typical luncheon on a floating farm prepared by a fisherman’s family.”
Soak in Knowledge at The Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature in Hanoi was built in 1076 as a temple to honor the Chinese philosopher, Confucius. Later on, it functioned as a university for over 700 years and is regarded as the country’s first national university. Visitors and locals alike pay a visit to the now-historic relic and its five symbolic courtyards (students are even known to pray here for good luck on their upcoming exams). “The Temple of Literature gives a genuine insight into Vietnam’s academic and royal past,” Timbuktu’s Asia travel specialist Jessica Klauzenberg tells Vogue.
Chase Waterfalls in the North
The northern landscapes of Vietnam feel like nature has been left to its own devices. Totally wild, totally breathtaking. Outdoor enthusiasts will have plenty to choose from when curating an itinerary, so why not begin with a crowd pleaser and take yourself on a tour of the region’s waterfalls? Up along the border with China, Ban Gioc Waterfall is a heavy hitter and considered the fourth largest transboundary waterfall in the world (behind Iguazu, Victoria, and Niagara Falls). Thac Bac Waterfall in Sapa and Khe Van Waterfall in Quang Ninh are also worthy contenders.
Take a Spin Around Bình Tây Market
Ho Chi Minh City is often defined by its buzzy, vibrant energy, so for visitors who want to experience this in full, Tri points to Bình Tây Market. “It really reflects the hustle and bustle of local trade,” he says. “You can experience the authentic rhythm of daily commerce, at local prices, too.” The market is nearly a century old and combines both Chinese and French influences in its architecture. As for the shopping, expect it all—handwoven hats, embroidered textiles, and, of course, plenty of delicious local cuisine.
Cycle Through Rice Paddies
Cycling through verdant rice paddies is a quintessential experience in Vietnam. These bike routes are widespread throughout the country, from the fertile Red River Delta in the north, to the peaceful Hội An countryside just minutes from the ancient town. Catch glimpses of water buffalo and make pitstops at hidden coffee shops with a view, all while pedaling beside one of the most culturally significant industries in the country.
Escape to a Secluded Bay
Vietnam’s gargantuan coastline stretches over 2,000 miles and offers countless beaches across all of the country’s regions. Among the best ways to savor this wealth of water is by escaping to a secluded bay to soak up the sun. Take Vinh Hy Bay for example, which lives up to its reputation of being unspoiled. (It’s also the setting for Amanoi, Aman’s one and only outpost in the country.) Take a peaceful dip, snorkel along the coral reefs, or go for a hike in Nui Chua National Park—this bay is a one-stop shop for Vietnam’s natural splendor.
Fly a Kite in Imperial Huế
The city of Huế was once the cradle of imperial power, and was where Vietnam’s last feudal dynasty ruled. The destination is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of temples, pagodas, and historic monuments. It s also a popular spot for kite flying. The tradition comes from when Huế was a center for nobility, with kite festivals and competitions being deeply embedded in folk life. In the summer, keep your eyes peeled for fearsome dragons and colorful phoenixes gliding across the sky.
Stroll Around the Mỹ Sơn Ruins
The Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary is a remarkable temple complex that was built beginning in the 4th century, with construction continuing all the way to the 1200s. This historic site once belonged to the ancient Hindu kingdom of Cham, which is one of 54 recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam. Visitors can trek into the jungle to explore this enigmatic UNESCO World Heritage Site, stepping through ruins frozen in time.
Explore the Country’s Modern Identity Through Art
Vietnam’s contemporary art scene, particularly on the heels of the country’s 50th anniversary of the end to the war, is finally garnering the attention it deserves. This community of independent artists is injecting energy into the country’s creative landscape, which visitors can experience on full display in destinations like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. (For a full rundown on the best museums, galleries, and spaces, check out this thorough directory from Sophie’s Art Tour.)
Sail Overnight in Hạ Long Bay
There’s a reason Ha Long Bay attracts 2.6 million visitors each year—its karsts are otherworldly. Thankfully, it’s still possible to enjoy quiet corners of this archipelago, which is made up of over a thousand limestone islands and islets. Book a two-night stay on Heritage Line’s Ginger sailing that will take you deep into this emerald green idyll. Spend your days kayaking and exploring caves, and your evenings squid fishing off the back of the boat.
Get Lost In Hanoi s Old Quarter
Getting lost in Hanoi’s maze of narrow streets and alleyways is an especially atmospheric experience in the Old Quarter. With the constant hum of motorbikes and aromas of piping hot noodles and fresh herbs, it’s quite the exhilarating experience to meander through the neighborhood’s 36 streets (each named after trades or crafts distinct to the area). For a slightly slower pace, hop on a cyclo (a three-wheeled bicycle taxi) to take in the Old Quarter’s most charming highlights.
See a Traditional Water Puppet Show
Water puppetry is deeply ingrained in Vietnam’s cultural heritage, going back as far as the 11th century. These were originally performed by farmers who used flooded rice paddies as their watery stage, but the tradition has evolved into a cultural showcase that grants travelers the opportunity to experience Vietnamese folklore and rural life through a lively performance (usually accompanied by life music and singing).
Trek in Rural Mai Chau
In the northwest pocket of Vietnam, Mai Chau offers a true off-the-beaten-track experience that’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. “This region is a peaceful alternative to Sapa—fewer crowds and notoriety—about a five-hour drive from Hanoi near the Laos border,” Lauren Jafry of Extraordinary Journeys says. While here, she also suggests booking a stay at Avana Retreat, a mountain resort with valley and rice terrace views. “Spend your days hiking to local Thai and Hmong villages without a Westerner in sight.”
Partake in Vietnamese Coffee Traditions
Vietnamese coffee culture is so much more than a pick-me-up. Similar to the country’s cuisine, which is all about customizing flavor to your palate, you can choose between different styles according to your liking. Whether it’s brewed coffee blended with sweet and fatty coconut milk, ultra-creamy egg coffee, or drip coffee topped with a layer of salted cream, you’ll quickly find yourself hunting down the best coffee shops in every destination you visit.
Ride Around in a Basket Boat
Vietnam’s circular basket boats (known as thung chai) are woven from bamboo and said to be a holdover from the French colonial period when taxes on boat ownership soared, leading to Vietnamese fisherman to invent a new type of vessel that would be exempt from taxation. These baskets are crafted by hand and yet another example of the country’s impressive artisanship and engineering. Guests staying at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An can book the Sunrise Fish Market experience, which includes paddling around on one of these traditional bamboo baskets.
Sign Up For a Street Food Tour
You’d be remiss to travel to Vietnam and not spend at least one day indulging in the country’s mind-blowing street food scene. Navigating these vendors can admittedly be a bit daunting for first-timers, so join a walking food tour to take it all in, stress-free. Curious About Vietnam (or Ms. Yummyface, as she’s known on Instagram) offers boutique tours in Hanoi that are capped at seven people and introduce you to dishes well beyond the expected pho and banh mi.
Wander Down Hidden Corridors in Hội An
Along the moody Thu Bon River, Hội An is a UNESCO-protected trading port dating from the 15th to 19th century. Over these centuries, a myriad of various cultures occupied the region, from Cham and Chinese to Japanese and Europeans. As such, this well-preserved town is full of unique architectural styles, which makes strolling around (blissfully sans cars) a wonderful outing. And while this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, if you meander off the main drag, disappearing into hidden corridors and alleyways, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how quiet it can be.
