5 August 2015
5 must visit places on your maiden Vietnam tour
Explore the wonders of Vietnam in 2025 and let yourself be enchanted by vibrant cities, lush landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. This guide unveils the essential stops for an unforgettable introduction to this unique destination.
Hanoi
Start your trip to Vietnam in its dynamic capital, Hanoi. With a thousand years of history behind it, Hanoi offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Discover the energy of the Old Quarter, the tranquility of Hoan Kiem Lake, and the elegance of French colonial avenues. Don't miss emblematic sites like the Temple of Literature, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and unique moments in the city's vibrant cafés. Street food is an integral part of the experience, especially the legendary pho and egg coffee.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam, combines history and modernity in an exhilarating atmosphere. Walk the lively boulevards lined with colonial-era structures and the soaring skyscrapers. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and enjoy the energy of Ben Thanh and Binh Tay markets. Here, street food and trendy restaurants coexist, offering flavors for all tastes. Dive into its nightlife or explore the surrounding Mekong Delta for a complete experience.
Hoi An
Charming and peaceful, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture and atmospheric lantern-lit streets. It is a culinary paradise: discover local specialties in the markets or treat yourself to a class in Vietnamese cuisine. Beyond its old quarter, enjoy nearby beaches or cycling along lush rice paddies. The Japanese Covered Bridge and Chinese temples reveal the town's rich history and multicultural influences.
Halong Bay
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay dazzles visitors with its thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters. Embark on a cruise to discover mysterious caves and floating villages, or choose an adventure to Lan Ha Bay for a more secluded and authentic experience. Cat Ba Island offers trekking and opportunities to mingle with local life. Cruises of one or more days allow you to fully appreciate the magical atmosphere, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Sapa
Nestled in the heart of the mountainous north, Sapa is a favorite for trekkers and lovers of spectacular landscapes. The region offers panoramic views of terraced rice fields and encounters with ethnic minorities who perpetuate ancestral traditions. The town itself, established by the French in the 1920s, is the gateway to hiking through the Hoang Lien mountains and charming local markets. Sapa's changing climate adds a touch of adventure to every excursion.
Practical Information and More Must-Sees
To enrich your circuit, consider a stop in Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park to explore incredible caves, or unwind on the beaches of Phu Quoc Island. The Mekong Delta also invites you to experience rural Vietnam by boat, discovering floating markets and authentic village life. Vietnam's climate varies according to the region and season, so plan accordingly for a smooth journey. Getting around is facilitated by domestic flights, trains, and buses, while local culture can be discovered everywhere from street cuisine to colorful festivals. Prepare to immerse yourself in a country that surprises at every turn and makes every trip unforgettable.
