Enjoy Hanoi and Halong Bay — then step beyond the tourist trail to find more magic in the highlands, islands, history and culture of this captivating nation.
With 99 million people and 2,000 miles of coastline, Vietnam is full of things to see, taste, and explore. I first came in 2004 and have returned many times since. The classic route covers Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, but venturing further brings unforgettable moments—like cruising the remote edges of Halong Bay, riding a motorbike through Ha Giang’s peaks, or meeting the last elephant catcher in Yok Don. I’ve wandered imperial tombs in Hue, spotted the rare Cat Ba langur, and enjoyed Con Dao’s history, food, and beaches. And everywhere, the flavors—fragrant dishes, strong coffee, cocktails, and beer—guide the journey.
1. Hanoi
Hanoi is chaotic, charming and full of history. The thousand-year-old city blends lakes, temples, markets, museums and irresistible street food. Explore the Old Quarter, French villas, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo prison and the Museum of Ethnology—just be ready to dodge motorbikes. For a stay, the Sofitel Legend Metropole, once home to Graham Greene, remains the city’s most elegant address.
2. Ha Giang
Ha Giang, on the Chinese border, is a land of dramatic peaks, mountain passes and terraced rice fields. Villages of Red Dzao, Flower Hmong and other minorities offer markets, weaving traditions and eco-stays. Highlights include the opulent Hmong king’s palace and the stunning paddies of Mu Cang Chai. Stay at Panhou Retreat, a serene mountain hideaway with bungalows, spa and hot springs.
3. Pu Luong and Mai Chau
Just outside Hanoi, Pu Luong nature reserve and Mai Chau Valley offer rice paddies, rivers, bamboo rafts and village life among the Muong and Thai people. Spot rare wildlife, trek through serene landscapes, and stay at Avana Retreat, a beautiful eco-hideaway built by locals.
4. Bai Tu Long Bay, Halong Bay
Halong Bay’s limestone towers create a magical seascape best explored by boat. Stay two nights to reach quieter Bai Tu Long Bay, away from the crowds, and soak in the ever-changing views of mist or clear blue skies.
5. Hue and the DMZ
Hue, once the Nguyen emperors’ capital, is home to a grand citadel, ornate tombs along the Perfume River, and a cuisine of over a thousand imperial dishes. Often skipped for Hoi An, it’s a city rich in history and beauty. Stay at Pilgrimage Village Boutique & Spa for a serene retreat with gardens, spa and pool.
6. Danang and China beach
China Beach, once a Vietnam War R&R spot, is now an 18-mile stretch of golden sand lined with luxury resorts like the InterContinental Danang. Nearby are the Cham Sculpture Museum, the ruins of My Son, and Danang’s fire-breathing Dragon Bridge.
7. Hoi An
Hoi An enchants with lantern-lit streets, Chinese temples, ochre houses, tailors, and street food along the Thu Bon River. Nearby An Bang beach offers a relaxing escape, while the Four Seasons Nam Hai provides luxurious beachfront villas.
8. Ninh Van Bay
Ninh Van Bay, just north of Nha Trang, is a secluded peninsula of beaches, waterfalls and forests. Stay at An Lam Retreats for a boho vibe or Six Senses for luxury villas set among giant boulders with private pools and butler service.
9. Dalat
Dalat, a former French hill station, charms with villas, gardens, waterfalls, cafés and quirky attractions like the Crazy House and Wes Anderson–worthy railway station. Stay at Ana Mandara Villas, a cozy hilltop retreat in an old villa.
10. Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City buzzes with nine million people, endless motorbikes, street food, coffee, and a lively craft beer scene. Explore by motorbike, visit the Cu Chi tunnels and Cao Dai cathedral, then retreat to Park Hyatt Saigon with its top restaurants, bars, and pool.
11. Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta offers floating markets, farms, temples, wetlands, birdlife, and a blend of Cham, Khmer, and Vietnamese culture. Stay at Victoria Can Tho, a riverside retreat with its own boats for exploring the waterways.
12. Con Dao archipelago
Once a prison island, Con Dao is now a pristine haven with turtle nesting sites, beaches, diving, and historic landmarks. Stay at Six Senses Con Dao, where glassy villas with pools sit right on the sand.
Sourse: vietnam.travel
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