🇻🇳 An Elegant 12-Day Itinerary for Vietnam: Timeless Charm & Natural Wonders

Following a smooth transfer to your hotel, your guide will meet you in the late afternoon for a classic Hanoi orientation. The adventure begins with a one-hour cyclo ride, providing a fantastic, immersive perspective of the Old Quarter without the stress of navigating the traffic yourself. Your cyclo driver will pedal you through the bustling streets, past colonial-era architecture, traditional tube houses, bustling markets, and countless shops selling everything from silk to spices. It’s a sensory feast and a perfect way to get your bearings in this fascinating district.

After the cyclo ride, you will attend a performance of the world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Your guide will explain the history of this unique art form and the stories behind the folk tales and legends being depicted on the water stage, which are accompanied by a live traditional orchestra. This enchanting show is a wonderful glimpse into the rural soul of Vietnam. The evening concludes with a welcome dinner at a curated restaurant, where your guide will introduce you to classic Hanoian dishes like “cha ca la vong” (grilled fish with dill and turmeric) or a variety of other northern specialties, providing a perfect culinary start to your journey.

Young Travelers: After dinner, head to Ta Hien Street, famously known as “Beer Corner.” This bustling intersection is packed with locals and travelers sitting on tiny plastic stools, enjoying cheap and refreshing “bia hoi” (fresh draft beer). It’s the social heart of the Old Quarter and a fantastic place to people-watch.

Seniors: The cyclo ride is a wonderfully relaxing and comfortable way to see the Old Quarter. The Water Puppet Show is a seated performance and very enjoyable. For dinner, choose a restaurant in the French Quarter, which often offers a quieter and more refined ambiance than the bustling Old Quarter.

Family: The cyclo ride is a fun adventure for children. The Water Puppet Show, with its colorful puppets, dragons, and lively music, is very captivating for families. Many restaurants in Hanoi are family-friendly and can offer non-spicy options for kids.

Travelers with Disabilities: Arranging a cyclo that can accommodate a wheelchair is difficult. A more suitable alternative is a private car tour of the Old Quarter’s highlights. The Water Puppet Theatre is accessible. It is essential to book an accessible vehicle for your airport transfer and to choose a hotel with confirmed accessible facilities.

Luxury Travel: Arrive in a luxury vehicle from the airport. Your cyclo ride will be a private arrangement. You will have premium seats for the Water Puppet Show. Your welcome dinner will be at a high-end restaurant like La Verticale or Madame Hien, which offer sophisticated French-Indochinese cuisine in beautifully restored colonial villas.

Adventure Travel: Forgo the cyclo and dinner for a guided motorbike street food tour. A local expert will zip you through the Old Quarter’s hidden alleys on the back of a scooter, stopping at the best local, authentic food stalls to sample a huge variety of Hanoian specialties, from “pho” to “banh mi” and “egg coffee.”

Nature Travel: After checking in, take a peaceful and restorative walk around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword), the geographical and spiritual heart of Hanoi. You can see the iconic red Huc Bridge leading to the Ngoc Son Temple on a small island, and watch locals practicing tai chi and aerobics along the shaded promenade.

• Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi – An iconic, historic landmark since 1901, this hotel offers timeless French colonial elegance, impeccable service, and a prime location in the French Quarter.
• Mid-Range: Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa – A highly-rated and stylish boutique hotel in the Old Quarter, known for its superb customer service, comfortable rooms, and rooftop bar with fantastic city views.
• Budget: Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel – A popular and social hostel offering clean dorms and private rooms, with a great location and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for meeting other travelers.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport (HAN), it is highly advisable to have your transfer pre-booked. If not, use one of the official, reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white) and ensure the driver uses the meter. It’s also a great time to get a local SIM card at the airport, which is very cheap and will provide you with data for navigation and communication throughout your trip. The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND); you will be a millionaire in Dong, so familiarize yourself with the denominations to avoid confusion.

Crossing the street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter for the first time can be an intimidating experience. The traffic, mostly motorbikes, seems chaotic and never stops. The key is to walk slowly and confidently at a steady, predictable pace. Do not stop, run, or make sudden movements. The drivers are incredibly skilled and will anticipate your path and flow around you. It may feel strange at first, but once you get the hang of it, you will feel like a local navigating the city’s vibrant energy.

For your arrival day, comfortable travel clothes are a priority. Once in Hanoi, you will be in a hot and humid environment for much of the year. Lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon is essential. For your evening cyclo ride and dinner, a smart-casual look is appropriate. For men, lightweight trousers or shorts and a polo or short-sleeved shirt are perfect. For women, a summer dress, a skirt, or loose-fitting trousers and a top are ideal choices.

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are a must for exploring the Old Quarter. While the style is generally casual, it’s always a good idea to have a light scarf or pashmina with you, which can be useful for air-conditioned indoor spaces or for added modesty if you decide to pop into a temple. The period from November to April is drier and cooler in Hanoi, so a light jacket or sweater will be needed for the evenings during these months.

Hanoi is a food lover’s dream, and your welcome dinner is the perfect introduction. For an authentic and highly-regarded experience, a restaurant like Cha Ca Thang Long is a must-visit. It specializes in the iconic Hanoian dish of “cha ca la vong”—turmeric-marinated fish that you grill yourself at your table with fresh dill and spring onions, served with rice noodles and peanuts. Another excellent choice is 1946 Restaurant, which offers a wide range of classic northern Vietnamese dishes in a nostalgic, traditional setting.

A quintessential Hanoi experience you must try, perhaps before or after dinner, is “ca phe trung” or egg coffee. This unique local specialty is a rich, creamy, and surprisingly delicious concoction of strong Vietnamese coffee whipped with egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk, creating a tiramisu-like foam. The best place to try it is at the original Cafe Giang or the charming Cafe Dinh, both tucked away in small alleys in the Old Quarter. It’s a sweet and memorable taste of the city’s unique cafe culture.

From Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), the most convenient and stress-free way to get to your hotel in the Old Quarter is with a pre-booked private transfer. The journey takes about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a Grab (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber), which is very popular and affordable. Official airport taxis are also available, but be sure to choose a reputable company.

Once you are in the Old Quarter, the best way to get around for your evening’s activities is by a combination of cyclo and walking. The cyclo ride provides the main tour, and then you can easily walk from the drop-off point to the Water Puppet Theatre, which is located on the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake. The entire historic core of Hanoi is very compact and is a fantastic place to explore on foot, allowing you to discover hidden temples, charming cafes, and vibrant street life in its narrow alleyways.

Your guided city tour begins at the Ho Chi Minh Complex. You will first visit the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (from the outside, as viewing is limited and often has long queues). You will then explore the beautiful surrounding grounds, seeing the historic Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s modest stilt house, where he lived and worked. The tour also includes a visit to the serene One Pillar Pagoda, a unique and iconic Buddhist temple. Your next stop is the Temple of Literature. Your guide will lead you through the five courtyards of this beautiful temple complex, explaining its history as a university and showing you the famous stone steles mounted on the backs of tortoises, which record the names of successful scholars.

In the afternoon, you will drive to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. This is one of the best museums in the country and a highlight for many visitors. Your guide will focus on the excellent indoor exhibition, which showcases the incredible cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 officially recognized ethnic groups. You will see traditional costumes, artifacts, and displays on the unique customs of these different groups. The highlight is the outdoor exhibition, where you can explore life-sized replicas of traditional village houses from across the country, from the tall communal houses of the Central Highlands to the traditional stilt houses of the north. It’s a fascinating and immersive cultural journey.

Young Travelers: In the evening, explore the area around St. Joseph’s Cathedral, which has a very European feel and is surrounded by trendy cafes, boutiques, and bars. It’s a great place to see a different side of Hanoi’s youth culture.

Seniors: The Ho Chi Minh Complex and the Temple of Literature involve a fair amount of walking on flat ground. The Museum of Ethnology is modern and accessible. A private car for the day is the most comfortable way to travel between these spread-out sites. For a relaxing afternoon, consider a Vietnamese massage or spa treatment.

Family: The outdoor exhibition at the Museum of Ethnology is fantastic for children. They can run around and explore the different types of houses, which is a very fun and interactive way to learn about different cultures. The Temple of Literature, with its beautiful gardens and fish ponds, is also a pleasant place for a family visit.

Travelers with Disabilities: The grounds of the Ho Chi Minh Complex and the Temple of Literature are largely accessible, though some older buildings may have steps. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a modern museum and is fully wheelchair accessible. A private, accessible vehicle is essential for this day’s itinerary.

Luxury Travel: Your private city tour will be with a historian guide. The tour could be combined with a visit to a private art gallery to see contemporary Vietnamese art. In the evening, enjoy a performance at the magnificent Hanoi Opera House, a beautiful French colonial building, followed by a late dinner.

Adventure Travel: For a different perspective on the city’s history, join a tour that explores the B-52 wreckage in Huu Tiep Lake, a poignant reminder of the Vietnam War. You could also explore the city by bicycle with a guided tour that takes you through the backstreets and along the West Lake.

Cultural Immersion: Join a Vietnamese cooking class. These classes often start with a trip to a local market with the chef to buy fresh ingredients, followed by a hands-on lesson where you learn to make classic dishes like “pho” (noodle soup) and “nem” (spring rolls), which you then get to enjoy for lunch.

• Luxury: Capella Hanoi – An opulent and exquisitely designed luxury hotel in the French Quarter, celebrating the world of opera in the 1920s, offering lavish rooms, a stunning indoor pool, and world-class dining.
• Mid-Range: The Oriental Jade Hotel – A very popular and stylish hotel with a fantastic rooftop infinity pool offering incredible views over Hoan Kiem Lake, located in a prime position in the Old Quarter.
• Budget: Little Hanoi Hostel – A friendly and well-run hostel offering excellent value, with clean rooms, a good breakfast, and a helpful staff that can arrange tours and transport.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has strict rules and limited opening hours (it is typically only open in the mornings and is closed for a period each autumn for maintenance). There is also a very respectful dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered, and you cannot wear shorts or sleeveless tops. You must walk silently in two lines and cannot stop inside the mausoleum. While going inside to see Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body is a unique experience, the long queues and strict rules mean that many visitors are content to just see the impressive building and the changing of the guard from the outside.

Hanoi’s main attractions are quite spread out across the city. While the Old Quarter is walkable, getting between the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the Temple of Literature, and the Museum of Ethnology requires transport. A full-day tour with a private car or joining a small group tour is the most efficient way to see all these sites in one day. If you are traveling independently, using a ride-hailing app like Grab is a very affordable and convenient way to get around.

A modest and respectful style of dress is essential for today, particularly for the visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. Both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered. For women, a lightweight pair of trousers or a long skirt and a top with sleeves is a perfect choice. For men, long trousers are required (no shorts). Wearing clothing that is respectful of the local culture will make you feel much more comfortable and is a key part of responsible travel.

You will be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. The climate is hot and humid, so choose lightweight and breathable fabrics. A sun hat is also a very good idea, as you will be spending time outdoors in the large complex and temple grounds. A light rain jacket or an umbrella is always a good idea to have in your daypack for sudden tropical showers.

For lunch, after visiting the Temple of Literature, you can head to KOTO (Know One, Teach One), a fantastic restaurant located right next to the temple. It’s a social enterprise that trains and employs disadvantaged youth in the hospitality industry, and the food is excellent, serving a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious meal while supporting a wonderful cause.

For dinner, this is your chance to dive deep into Hanoi’s legendary street food scene. The Old Quarter is a paradise for food lovers. You must try “pho,” the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup. Find a simple, busy-looking local stall for the most authentic experience. Another must-try is “bun cha,” a Hanoian specialty of grilled pork patties and slices served in a bowl of dipping sauce with rice noodles and fresh herbs (made famous by Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain). Finally, seek out a vendor selling “banh mi,” the delicious Vietnamese baguette sandwich. It’s a perfect, cheap, and incredibly flavorful way to dine.

The sights on today’s itinerary are located in different parts of Hanoi, so you will need to use transport to get between them. The most convenient and comfortable option is to book a full-day city tour that includes a private car and guide. This allows you to travel in air-conditioned comfort and move efficiently between the sites without worrying about navigation or finding taxis.

For independent travelers, the best way to get around is by using a ride-hailing app like Grab, which offers both car and motorbike taxi options at a very affordable price. Taxis are also available, but be sure to use a reputable company and that the driver uses the meter. The public bus system is extensive but can be difficult for tourists to navigate. This is a day where the convenience of a dedicated vehicle greatly enhances the experience.

Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Hanoi for the scenic transfer to the Ha Long Bay cruise port (the journey takes about 2.5-3 hours on the new expressway). Upon arrival at the port, you will board your chosen cruise vessel and be welcomed with a drink and a safety briefing. After settling into your cabin, you will enjoy a delicious lunch on board as the ship begins its voyage, navigating through the incredible maze of limestone islands. The scenery is stunning from the very first moment, with each turn revealing a new, breathtaking vista.

In the afternoon, the cruise will anchor for the day’s main activities. A typical itinerary includes a visit to one of the bay’s magnificent caves, such as Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace) Cave or Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, where you can admire the incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations. Following this, you will have the choice of either kayaking in a beautiful, quiet lagoon to explore the karsts at water level, or taking a more relaxed ride on a bamboo boat rowed by a local. Many cruises also offer a stop at an island like Ti Top Island, where you can swim at the beach or climb the 400 steps to the summit for a stunning 360-degree view of the bay. The day often concludes with a happy hour and a cooking demonstration on the sundeck as you watch the sunset.

Young Travelers: Choose a cruise that offers a lively social atmosphere and plenty of active options like kayaking and swimming. After dinner, some boats have karaoke or squid fishing off the back of the boat, which can be a fun way to spend the evening.

Seniors: Opt for a luxury cruise line that offers a more relaxed pace, premium comfort, and excellent service. The bamboo boat is a wonderful and gentle alternative to kayaking. A cabin with a private balcony is highly recommended for enjoying the scenery in comfort and privacy.

Family: An overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay is a fantastic adventure for families. Kids will love sleeping on a boat and the variety of activities. Kayaking (double kayaks are available) and swimming are great for older children. The magical caves and the “dragon” legends of the bay capture their imaginations.

Travelers with Disabilities: Accessibility on Ha Long Bay cruises can be a major challenge. The transfers between the main boat and the smaller boats for activities are often difficult. Some of the newer, more luxurious vessels may have elevators and more accessible cabins, but it is essential to discuss your specific needs in detail with the cruise operator before booking to see what is realistically possible.

Luxury Travel: Choose a top-tier luxury cruise line like Paradise Cruises, Heritage Cruises, or Orchid Cruises. These offer opulent suites with private balconies and jacuzzis, gourmet dining with fine wines, onboard spas, and a more exclusive itinerary that takes you to the less-crowded parts of Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay.

Adventure Travel: For a more adventurous experience, consider a multi-day cruise that includes trekking on Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the bay, which is a designated national park. You could also find tours that offer rock climbing on the limestone karsts with certified guides.

Nature Travel: Select a cruise with an eco-focus that visits the more pristine and less-visited Bai Tu Long Bay or the southern part of Lan Ha Bay. These cruises often have a naturalist guide on board who can talk about the unique geology and biodiversity of the bay, and the focus is on quiet kayaking and appreciating the natural tranquility of the area.

You will be staying overnight on your chosen Ha Long Bay cruise boat.

• Luxury Cruise: Paradise Elegance Cruise Halong – A beautiful steel boat offering luxurious cabins with private balconies, a fine-dining restaurant, a spa, and impeccable service, providing a sophisticated way to experience the bay.
• Mid-Range Cruise: Aspira Cruises – A modern and stylish cruise that explores the less-crowded Lan Ha Bay, offering spacious cabins with balconies, a swimming pool, and a good range of activities.
• Budget Cruise: Halong Flamingo Cruises – A popular and well-regarded cruise offering a more traditional junk boat experience at a budget-friendly price, with comfortable cabins and a fun, social atmosphere.

Choosing the right Ha Long Bay cruise is the most important decision for this part of your trip. There are hundreds of boats with varying levels of quality, safety, and price. It is highly advisable to book with a reputable and well-reviewed company in advance. The cheapest backpacker cruises can sometimes be a false economy, with issues of safety and hygiene. A mid-range or luxury cruise will generally offer a much better and safer experience. Also, consider a cruise that sails in the less-crowded areas of Lan Ha Bay (departing from a different port) or Bai Tu Long Bay for a more serene experience.

Pack an overnight bag for your cruise and leave your main luggage securely at your hotel in Hanoi. Most hotels offer this service for free or a small fee. Your bag for the boat should include a change of clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a light jacket for the evening, any personal medications, and your camera. Wi-Fi on the boats is often slow and unreliable, so this is a great opportunity to disconnect and simply enjoy the stunning scenery.

For your transfer from Hanoi and for boarding the cruise, casual and comfortable clothing is best. Once on board, a relaxed, holiday style is perfect. During the day, you will want to wear your swimsuit under a pair of shorts and a t-shirt or a beach cover-up, so you are ready for swimming and kayaking. A sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are absolutely essential, as the sun reflects strongly off the water.

For the evening dinner on board, the dress code is smart-casual. There is no need to dress up formally, but it’s nice to change out of your daytime beachwear. A summer dress, a pair of trousers or a skirt with a nice top for women, and trousers or smart shorts and a polo shirt for men would be perfect. The evenings on the water can get a little cool and breezy, even in summer, so be sure to bring a light jacket, sweater, or pashmina.

All your meals for this part of the trip are included in your cruise package and will be served on the boat. Lunch is typically a buffet or set menu served as you begin your cruise, featuring a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes. The food is generally of a high standard, especially on the mid-range and luxury cruises.

Dinner is a highlight of the cruise experience. It is often a multi-course set menu or a lavish seafood barbecue buffet, enjoyed in the boat’s dining room or sometimes on the sundeck. The focus is on fresh, local seafood, such as prawns, squid, and fish, prepared in a variety of delicious ways. It’s a wonderful dining experience, enjoyed against the spectacular backdrop of the limestone karsts. Most cruises also have a bar where you can purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

The vast majority of travelers visit Ha Long Bay on a pre-booked package tour that includes round-trip transportation from their hotel in Hanoi. This is by far the most convenient and common way to do it. The tour company will pick you up in a comfortable shuttle bus or private car in the morning and drive you directly to the cruise port, where their staff will handle all the check-in procedures for you. This seamless, door-to-door service is the most hassle-free option.

If you wish to travel independently, you can take a public bus or a limousine van from Hanoi to the Tuan Chau Marina (for Ha Long Bay) or the Got Pier (for Lan Ha Bay). From there, you would need to have a pre-booked cruise to board. However, since almost all cruise prices include the transfer from Hanoi, traveling independently rarely saves any money and adds a significant amount of logistical complexity. The package tour is the most recommended method.

The day on board your cruise starts early with the option to join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. This gentle martial art is a wonderful way to awaken your body and mind while surrounded by the spectacular, silent scenery of the bay at dawn. Following this, a light breakfast is served as the boat begins to cruise slowly through different parts of the bay. The morning’s activity often involves exploring a different area than the previous day. This might be a visit to a pearl farm to learn about the local aquaculture, or another opportunity for a short kayak or swim in a quiet cove.

As the morning progresses, you will cruise back towards the port. A full brunch is typically served on board around mid-morning, giving you a final opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal while watching the incredible scenery glide by. Upon disembarking at the pier around noon, you will find your pre-arranged shuttle bus or private car waiting to take you back to Hanoi. The journey will take you directly to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) for your evening flight, concluding your Ha Long Bay adventure and beginning the next chapter of your Vietnamese journey.

Young Travelers: Take advantage of the final opportunity for a swim or kayak in the morning. The journey back to Hanoi is a good time to catch up on some rest before the next leg of your adventure in Hoi An.

Seniors: The morning Tai Chi session is a wonderful, gentle activity. Alternatively, simply enjoying a coffee on your private balcony while watching the bay wake up is a perfect start to the day. The transfer back to Hanoi is comfortable, and arriving at the airport with plenty of time ensures a stress-free transition.

Family: Waking up on the boat is a huge excitement for children. They can enjoy the final activities and the big brunch on board. The transfer back to Hanoi is a good time for a nap, ensuring they are rested for the evening flight.

Travelers with Disabilities: The morning on the cruise can be a relaxing experience enjoying the scenery from the deck or your cabin. Disembarking can be a challenge, so assistance from the crew will be needed. A private, accessible vehicle for the transfer to the airport is the most comfortable and reliable option.

Luxury Travel: Your luxury cruise will offer a gourmet brunch with sparkling wine. You will have a private luxury vehicle for your transfer directly from the cruise port to the airport’s VIP check-in lounge, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.

Adventure Travel: Some cruises offer a final, more adventurous activity in the morning, like a visit to a more remote or “wild” cave that requires a bit of scrambling to enter. This provides a final thrill before heading back to the city.

Nature Travel: The early morning is the best time for birdwatching in the bay. Be out on the deck with binoculars to spot some of the local birdlife. The slow cruise back to port offers a final, meditative opportunity to simply absorb the immense natural beauty of this unique UNESCO site.

You will be flying to Da Nang and transferring to a hotel in Hoi An for the night.

• Luxury (Hoi An): Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An – An exquisite all-villa luxury resort on the beautiful Ha My beach, offering unparalleled service, stunning infinity pools, and a serene, opulent escape.
• Mid-Range (Hoi An): La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa – A beautiful and highly-rated resort located between the Old Town and the beach, featuring several swimming pools, lush gardens, and excellent service.
• Budget (Hoi An): Hoi An Love Lane Villas – A charming and budget-friendly small hotel with a swimming pool, offering clean rooms and a friendly, family-run atmosphere, located a short walk from the Ancient Town.

Today is a major travel day, so it’s all about smooth logistics. Ensure you have your flight details handy. The transfer from Ha Long Bay to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) is a well-trodden route, but it’s important to allow plenty of time. A typical cruise will have you back in Hanoi by mid to late afternoon (around 4-5 PM). Therefore, it is best to book a flight to Da Nang (DAD) that departs in the evening, no earlier than 7 PM, to give yourself a comfortable buffer for any traffic delays.

Upon arrival at Da Nang airport, it is very easy to get to Hoi An, which is about a 45-minute drive away. You can pre-book a private transfer through your Hoi An hotel for a seamless arrival experience. Alternatively, you can easily get a Grab or a fixed-price taxi from the airport. Having your hotel address ready will make this final leg of your journey smooth and easy after a long day of travel.

For your final morning on the cruise, your casual boat attire is perfect. You will want to have a comfortable travel outfit ready to change into after your final brunch and before you disembark. A pair of comfortable trousers or leggings, a fresh t-shirt, and a light sweater or jacket for the air-conditioned bus and plane is an ideal combination. Comfortable shoes are a must for a long day of travel.

The climate in central Vietnam (Da Nang/Hoi An) is typically warmer and more tropical than in Hanoi, especially in the winter months. When you step off the plane in Da Nang, you will likely feel the increase in temperature and humidity, so having your jacket easily removable is a good idea. The key for today is comfortable, travel-appropriate clothing that will see you through a boat, a bus, and a plane journey.

Your main meal for the day will be the full brunch served on your cruise boat before you disembark. This is usually a substantial and varied meal that will keep you going for most of the afternoon. You may want to have some snacks with you for the bus journey back to Hanoi.

Once you arrive at Noi Bai Airport, there are many food and beverage options if you have time before your flight. You can grab a quick bowl of pho or a banh mi for a final taste of northern cuisine. For dinner, since you will be arriving in Hoi An in the evening, the easiest option is to have a simple meal at your hotel or at a nearby restaurant. This allows you to settle in and rest after a long day of travel before you start exploring the magical town of Hoi An the next day.

The day’s travel is structured around your Ha Long Bay cruise package. The cruise operator will provide the shuttle bus or private car transfer from the pier back to Hanoi. It is important to book a “Hanoi-drop off at airport” option if it is available, as this is the most direct route. If the standard drop-off is at your hotel in the Old Quarter, you would then need to take a separate taxi or Grab to the airport.

The flight from Hanoi (HAN) to Da Nang (DAD) is a popular domestic route with multiple daily flights on airlines like Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air. The flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The final leg of the journey is a 45-minute drive from Da Nang airport to your hotel in Hoi An, which is best done by a pre-booked transfer or a fixed-price airport taxi.

Your day starts with a guided excursion to the Marble Mountains. Your guide will lead you to the largest of the mountains, Thuy Son (Water Mountain), which is accessible via an elevator or a set of stairs. You will explore the network of paths that lead to various pagodas, viewpoints, and the mountain’s incredible natural caves. The highlight is the magnificent Huyen Khong Cave, a large, dramatic cavern that was once a secret base for revolutionaries and is now a revered sanctuary, with a huge marble Buddha statue illuminated by shafts of natural light from the cave’s ceiling.

In the afternoon, you will return to Hoi An for a guided walking tour of its atmospheric Ancient Town. The entrance ticket gives you access to five heritage sites. Your guide will lead you to a selection of the best, which may include the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, a beautifully preserved historic merchant’s house like the Tan Ky Old House, a vibrant Chinese Assembly Hall such as the Fujian Assembly Hall, and a local museum. Your guide will bring the history of this former trading hub to life, explaining how Chinese, Japanese, and European merchants have all left their mark on the town’s unique character. The tour concludes in the early evening, leaving you free to enjoy the magical ambiance as the lanterns begin to glow.

Young Travelers: After the walking tour in Hoi An, find a riverside bar for a cheap local beer and watch the boats go by. Many bars have happy hours. You could also take a basket boat tour through the nearby water coconut palms for a fun and unique local experience.

Seniors: At the Marble Mountains, the elevator is a great option to avoid the initial steep climb. The paths on the mountain involve some stairs but can be taken at a slow pace. The Hoi An Ancient Town is flat and very pleasant for walking. A boat ride on the Thu Bon River in the evening to release a candle lantern is a lovely and relaxing activity.

Family: The caves and tunnels of the Marble Mountains are a big adventure for children, like exploring a real-life treasure island. The Hoi An Ancient Town is very safe for families to walk around in the evening as it is pedestrian-only. Kids will love the colorful lanterns and the boat ride on the river.

Travelers with Disabilities: The Marble Mountains have an elevator, but the paths on the mountain itself are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs and uneven terrain. The Hoi An Ancient Town is largely flat, but the very old, narrow sidewalks can be challenging. Many of the old houses have a large step at the entrance and are not accessible. However, the atmosphere of the town can be enjoyed from the main streets.

Luxury Travel: Your tour will be private. In Hoi An, you could arrange for a private lantern-making class with a master craftsman. In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at a high-end restaurant in a restored historic building, followed by a private, catered boat trip on the river.

Adventure Travel: For a different perspective of the Da Nang coastline, you could drive the spectacular Hai Van Pass, a winding mountain road with breathtaking views made famous by the TV show “Top Gear.” This can be done by motorbike (with an experienced driver) or by car.

Cultural Immersion: Spend more time exploring the different Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An, each one built by a different community (Fujian, Cantonese, etc.) and featuring incredible decorations and statues. This provides a deeper insight into the multicultural history of the town.

• Luxury: Anantara Hoi An Resort – A beautiful French colonial-style resort located on the banks of the Thu Bon River, just a short walk from the Ancient Town, offering spacious rooms with balconies and a serene riverside pool.
• Mid-Range: Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa – A charming resort with a beautiful pool and lush gardens, offering a tranquil escape and providing a free shuttle service to both the town and the beach.
• Budget: Under the Coconut Tree Hoi An Homestay – A very popular and social guesthouse located near An Bang beach, offering simple private bungalows and dorms, with a great bar and a laid-back, backpacker vibe.

The ticket for the Hoi An Ancient Town is a single ticket that grants you access to five different attractions within the heritage area. Keep your ticket with you, as you will need to show it at the entrance to each of the sites you choose to visit (like the Japanese Bridge, an old house, and an assembly hall). The town becomes pedestrian-only in the evenings (from 3 PM), which is when its magical atmosphere truly comes alive. This is the best time for a leisurely stroll.

Hoi An is famous for its tailors. If you are interested in getting custom-made clothing, this is the place to do it. The quality and prices are excellent. However, the process takes time (usually at least 24-48 hours, including fittings). If you are interested, you should visit a reputable tailor on your first afternoon to get measured and choose your fabrics and designs, so that your clothes will be ready before you leave the town.

For your visit to the Marble Mountains, wear lightweight and comfortable clothing that is suitable for a hot and humid climate. It’s also a religious site, so modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is respectful and recommended. Sturdy and comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential, as you will be climbing stairs and walking on uneven and sometimes slippery rock paths inside the caves.

For the afternoon and evening in Hoi An, your morning attire will be fine, but you might want to change into something fresh. A smart-casual, relaxed holiday style is perfect. Lightweight dresses, skirts, or linen trousers are ideal for the warm evenings. Comfortable sandals or shoes are a must for walking on the old, uneven streets of the Ancient Town. The atmosphere is quite romantic and stylish in the evenings, so it’s a nice opportunity to dress up a little if you wish.

For lunch, you can find many excellent restaurants near the base of the Marble Mountains or along the My Khe beach in Da Nang. This is a great opportunity to try some of Da Nang’s famous fresh seafood at one of the many beachfront restaurants.

Dinner in Hoi An is a culinary highlight. The Ancient Town is filled with fantastic restaurants. You must try some of Hoi An’s unique local specialties. Look for “Cao Lau” (a unique noodle dish with pork and greens, made with water from a special well), “White Rose” dumplings (delicate steamed shrimp dumplings), and “Mi Quang” (turmeric-flavored noodles). For a fantastic and authentic experience, try Morning Glory Restaurant by the famous chef Ms. Vy, or for a more casual street food experience, find a stall selling delicious “Banh Mi Phuong,” made famous by Anthony Bourdain.

The journey from your hotel in Hoi An to the Marble Mountains is a short one, taking about 20-30 minutes by car. The easiest way to do this is by hiring a private car and driver for a half-day or by taking a Grab or taxi. Many local tour operators also offer half-day tours that cover the Marble Mountains and other nearby sights.

Once you are back in Hoi An, the Ancient Town is a designated UNESCO site and is best explored on foot. It is a very compact area, and walking is the only way to truly appreciate its charming, narrow lanes and hidden corners. Your hotel will likely be within easy walking or cycling distance of the main heritage area. Bicycles are a very popular way to get around the wider Hoi An area and are often provided for free by hotels.

Your day begins with a guided bicycle tour starting from your hotel. The cycling is easy and on flat terrain, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Your guide will lead you along scenic, car-free paths through the countryside. Your first major stop is the Tra Que vegetable village. Here, you will be welcomed by a local farming family. You’ll get a hands-on experience, learning how they cultivate the land and fertilize it with natural seaweed from the local river. You can try your hand at raking the soil, sowing seeds, and watering the plants using traditional shoulder poles with watering cans.

From the farming village, you will cycle to a water coconut palm forest. Here, you will board a traditional basket boat. A local will skillfully paddle you through the narrow channels of the forest, showing you how to catch small crabs and creating fun “jewelry” for you out of palm leaves. The boat ride is both peaceful and entertaining, often involving some singing and a demonstration of how the locals skillfully spin the round boats. The tour often concludes with a delicious lunch featuring fresh ingredients from the Tra Que village, providing a true farm-to-table experience before you cycle back to Hoi An.

Young Travelers: After the tour, spend the afternoon at An Bang Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with many cool beach clubs and bars. It’s a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy the laid-back beach vibe.

Seniors: If cycling is not preferred, this entire tour can be done via a comfortable private car or even on the back of a scooter with an experienced driver (a “scooter tour”). The farming and basket boat activities are very gentle and enjoyable for all mobility levels.

Family: This is a perfect day for families. The bicycle ride is fun and safe. The hands-on farming experience at Tra Que village is a fantastic and educational activity for children. The basket boat ride is always a huge hit, with the spinning boats and crab catching providing lots of laughs.

Travelers with Disabilities: The bicycle tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. However, a private car can be arranged to visit the Tra Que village, where some of the paths are accessible. Getting into the basket boats would require significant assistance and may not be feasible. An alternative could be a relaxing river cruise on a larger, more stable boat.

Luxury Travel: Your tour will be a private, curated experience. It could be combined with a high-end cooking class at a beautiful villa in the countryside, using herbs you have just picked yourself. The tour would conclude with a gourmet, multi-course Vietnamese lunch.

Adventure Travel: For a more extensive cycling adventure, take a longer, full-day bike tour that explores further into the countryside, visiting more remote villages, crossing floating bridges, and interacting with different local craftspeople, such as mat weavers or boat builders.

Nature Travel: Your tour can focus on the unique ecosystem of the water coconut palm forests and the importance of traditional, organic farming methods. You can learn about the different herbs and their medicinal uses. It’s a great opportunity to appreciate the sustainable relationship between the local communities and their natural environment.

• Luxury: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An – After a morning of cycling, retreat to this epitome of luxury, with its stunning private villas, three beachfront infinity pools, and an award-winning spa.
• Mid-Range: Hoi An Chic Hotel – A beautiful green-certified hotel with a stunning rooftop infinity pool overlooking the rice paddies, offering a stylish and sustainable stay.
• Budget: Hoi An Love Lane Villas – A charming and budget-friendly small hotel with a swimming pool, offering clean rooms and a friendly, family-run atmosphere, located a short walk from the Ancient Town.

The bicycle tours in Hoi An are very popular and are a fantastic way to see the countryside. The terrain is flat, so you don’t need to be an expert cyclist. However, it will be hot and humid. It is essential to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Most tours will provide you with a helmet and plenty of bottled water, but it’s a good idea to bring your own reusable water bottle as well. The basket boat ride is fun, but you may get a little splashed, so it’s a good idea to have a waterproof bag for your camera and phone.

After your morning of activity, the afternoon is free. This is a perfect opportunity to get some clothes custom-made. If you visited a tailor on your first afternoon, this would be the time for your first fitting. If not, you still have time to place an order. Reputable tailors in Hoi An can work quickly and can often have items ready for a fitting the next day. Be clear about your design, choose your fabric carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask for adjustments during the fitting to ensure a perfect result.

For your cycling and countryside tour, wear lightweight and comfortable active clothing. A pair of shorts and a breathable t-shirt or sports top is ideal. Closed-toe shoes like sneakers are the best choice for cycling. A hat is absolutely essential for sun protection while you are riding through the open rice paddies. Sunglasses are also a must.

You will be returning to your hotel after the tour, so you can shower and change for the afternoon and evening. A relaxed and casual style is perfect for an afternoon stroll through the town or for relaxing by the pool. For the evening, you can wear the same comfortable summer clothes. The atmosphere in Hoi An is very laid-back, so there is no need to dress up unless you are going to a very high-end restaurant.

Lunch is often included in the countryside tours and is a real highlight. You will typically be treated to a home-cooked meal at a local family’s house or a small restaurant in the Tra Que village. The meal will feature incredibly fresh ingredients, including the fragrant herbs you just learned about, and local specialties like “tam huu” (Tra Que prawns with pork and herbs) and crispy spring rolls. It’s a delicious and authentic farm-to-table experience.

For dinner, you have another opportunity to explore Hoi An’s amazing food scene. You could try a restaurant that you missed the previous night, or explore the Hoi An Central Market’s food hall for a cheap and incredibly varied meal. This is a great place to try a variety of local dishes from different vendors. In the evening, the riverfront is also lined with small stalls selling delicious street food snacks. A final stroll through the lantern-lit streets with a “banh mi” in hand is a perfect end to the day.

The main mode of transport for today’s main activity is the bicycle. The tour will include the bike rental, and your guide will lead the way, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. The distances are not long, and the pace is very leisurely. Most hotels in Hoi An also offer free bicycle rental for their guests, which is a fantastic way to explore the town and the immediate countryside on your own in the afternoon.

If you prefer not to cycle, you can arrange for the tour to be done by private car or on the back of a scooter. To get to the beach in the afternoon, which is about 4-5 kilometers from the Ancient Town, a short and cheap taxi or Grab ride is the easiest option. Many people also enjoy the flat and scenic cycle ride from the town to the beach.

For those choosing the cooking class, the experience typically begins with a visit to a bustling local market with your chef instructor. You’ll learn about the essential herbs, spices, and fresh produce that form the foundation of Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a vibrant and educational start to the class. You will then proceed to the cooking school, which is often located in a beautiful setting, such as a riverside villa or a garden in the countryside. The class is hands-on, and you will learn to prepare several classic Vietnamese and Hoi An dishes from scratch, such as fresh spring rolls (“goi cuon”), crispy pancakes (“banh xeo”), and perhaps a local noodle dish like Cao Lau.

The class is a fun and interactive experience, and the best part is that you get to sit down and enjoy the delicious multi-course meal that you have just created. It’s a truly rewarding and memorable activity. For those who opt for a day of relaxation, the main activity is simply enjoying the beach. You can rent a sun lounger at one of the many beach clubs at An Bang, which will often have service for drinks and food right on the sand. You can go for a swim, read a book, and enjoy a final, leisurely afternoon soaking up the sun and the laid-back coastal vibe.

Young Travelers: The cooking class is a great social activity. In the afternoon, An Bang beach has a lively scene with music and beach bars. You could also try some water sports, like stand-up paddleboarding or surfing when the conditions are right.

Seniors: A relaxing morning exploring the Ancient Town’s art galleries and craft shops at a leisurely pace is a great alternative to a cooking class. The afternoon can be spent at a quiet part of the beach or relaxing by the hotel pool. A final fitting at a tailor shop could also be on the agenda.

Family: A family cooking class can be a huge amount of fun, and many schools offer classes that are suitable for children. An afternoon spent building sandcastles and swimming at the beach is a perfect end to a family’s time in Hoi An.

Travelers with Disabilities: Many cooking schools, particularly those in modern villas, are accessible. It is important to confirm this in advance. The main promenade at An Bang beach is accessible for viewing the sea, but getting onto the sand itself would require assistance.

Luxury Travel: Your cooking class will be a private session with a top chef in a luxurious setting. Your afternoon at the beach will be at an exclusive beach club or the private beach of a 5-star resort, with full service, plush loungers, and gourmet food and cocktails.

Adventure Travel: Take a day trip to the Cham Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Hoi An that offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities in a protected marine park. This is a great way to explore the region’s underwater world.

Cultural Immersion: Instead of a standard cooking class, you could arrange a more in-depth experience with a local family in their home, where you not only cook but also share a meal and learn about their daily life. This provides a much deeper and more personal cultural exchange.

You will be staying at your hotel in Hoi An for this final night in the city.

• Luxury: Anantara Hoi An Resort – Enjoy a final day of luxury at this beautiful riverside resort, perhaps with a spa treatment or a final swim in their serene pool before your departure.
• Mid-Range: La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa – With its multiple pools and beautiful grounds, this resort is a perfect place to spend a relaxing final afternoon in Hoi An.
• Budget: Under the Coconut Tree Hoi An Homestay – Its location near the beach makes it a perfect base for a day of sun and sand, with a relaxed, social vibe for your final evening.

If you have had clothing made, today is the day for your final fitting and collection. Be sure to try on all your items carefully and don’t be shy about asking for any final, minor adjustments. Most reputable tailors want you to be completely happy with their work. Allow enough time in your schedule for this final visit before you get too relaxed at the beach. It’s a good idea to settle your final bill and collect your finished garments in the afternoon, well before you need to prepare for your departure the next day.

An Bang beach is the more lively and popular beach, with a wide range of beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Cua Dai beach, which has suffered from some coastal erosion, is generally much quieter. Choose the beach that best suits your vibe. At An Bang, you can usually use the sun loungers for free if you purchase food and drinks from the establishment that owns them. Be mindful of the sun, which can be very strong, and stay hydrated.

For a cooking class, wear lightweight and comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little messy. Closed-toe shoes are a good idea for the kitchen environment. If you are heading to the beach, your attire is simple: a swimsuit, a cover-up, shorts, and a t-shirt. A sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are absolutely essential for a day at the beach.

For your final evening in Hoi An, a relaxed summer holiday style is perfect. You can wear the same casual clothes you wore to the beach, or you might want to put on a nice summer dress or a pair of linen trousers for a final stroll through the beautiful, lantern-lit town. Comfortable sandals are the best footwear for the evening.

If you take the cooking class, lunch is a feast of your own creation, which is a wonderfully satisfying and delicious experience. If you head to the beach, the restaurants at An Bang are a fantastic choice for lunch. These are typically rustic, casual spots right on the sand, specializing in incredibly fresh grilled seafood. You can choose your fresh fish, prawns, or squid and have it grilled for you on the spot, served with rice and fresh salads. It’s a perfect, laid-back beach dining experience.

For your final dinner in Hoi An, it’s a chance to celebrate the end of a wonderful time in this magical town. You could revisit a favorite restaurant, or try one of the more upscale dining options in the Ancient Town. A final dinner at a riverside restaurant, watching the lanterns float by, is a perfect way to say goodbye. This is also your last chance to enjoy Hoi An’s unique local dishes, so make sure you have tried all the specialties like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings.

Most cooking schools will include a pickup from your hotel as part of the class package. To get to the beach, which is about 4-5 kilometers from the Ancient Town, the easiest options are to take a short and affordable taxi or Grab ride, or to cycle. The ride is flat and scenic, passing through rice paddies and small villages, and many people enjoy it. Most hotels in Hoi An provide free bicycles for their guests.

In the evening, the Ancient Town is best explored on foot. If your hotel is located further out, a short taxi ride is the most convenient way to get to and from the main heritage area. The town is very safe to walk around at night, and this is when its atmosphere is at its most magical.

The day starts with a short transfer from your hotel in Hoi An to Da Nang Airport (DAD) for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the late afternoon, your guide will meet you for a walking tour of the city’s colonial heart. The tour will focus on the architectural legacy of the French, starting with the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral, with its distinctive red-brick facade. Right across the square, you will visit the magnificent Central Post Office, a stunning example of French colonial architecture, often mistakenly attributed to Gustave Eiffel.

From there, you will stroll down the grand Dong Khoi Street, once known as the Rue Catinat and the center of French colonial life. You’ll see other historic buildings, including the beautiful Saigon Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville, now the City Hall. The tour concludes with an elevator ride up to a rooftop bar or observation deck, such as the one at the Bitexco Financial Tower. Here, you can enjoy a drink while your guide points out the different districts of the sprawling city below as the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle, offering a spectacular end to your first day in Saigon.

Young Travelers: After the rooftop bar, dive into the city’s famous nightlife. Head to the backpacker hub of Bui Vien Street for a chaotic but fun street party atmosphere, or explore the more sophisticated cocktail bars and live music venues in the area around Dong Khoi Street.

Seniors: The colonial-era landmarks are all located close to each other in a flat, walkable area. A private car tour can make the day even more comfortable. A relaxing dinner cruise on the Saigon River is a wonderful and comfortable way to see the city skyline at night.

Family: The grandeur of the colonial buildings can be impressive for children. For the evening, a visit to the Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a great family activity. This wide pedestrian boulevard has fountains, light shows, and lots of space for kids to run around, and it’s a favorite spot for local families.

Travelers with Disabilities: The central District 1 has some of the best-maintained sidewalks in Vietnam and is relatively accessible. The Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office can be viewed from the outside. Modern skyscrapers like the Bitexco Tower are fully accessible. It is important to book an accessible hotel and vehicle in advance.

Luxury Travel: Arrive in a luxury vehicle from the airport. Your city tour will be private. The evening will begin with cocktails at a chic rooftop bar like the one at the Hotel des Arts Saigon, followed by dinner at a high-end restaurant serving innovative Vietnamese or French cuisine.

Adventure Travel: The ultimate Saigon adventure is an evening tour on the back of a vintage Vespa scooter. A local guide will drive you through the city’s different districts, from the bustling streets to hidden, local-only spots, including a live music venue and some of the city’s best street food, offering a thrilling and authentic look at the city’s nightlife.

Cultural Immersion: In the evening, attend a performance at the Saigon Opera House if the schedule permits. Alternatively, you could visit a traditional medicine museum to learn about a different aspect of Vietnamese culture. A visit to a local market in a less-touristy district offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Saigonese.

• Luxury: Park Hyatt Saigon – A sophisticated luxury hotel in a prime location overlooking the Opera House, offering elegant French colonial style, a beautiful swimming pool, and world-class service.
• Mid-Range: Silverland Jolie Hotel & Spa – A charming boutique hotel with a lovely rooftop pool and bar offering views of the Saigon River, located in a convenient and relatively quiet part of District 1.
• Budget: The Hideout Hostel Saigon – A very popular and social backpacker hostel located right in the heart of the action, known for its lively bar, organized events, and great atmosphere.

Ho Chi Minh City is a large and bustling metropolis, and the traffic, primarily a river of motorbikes, can be even more intense than in Hanoi. Be very cautious when crossing the street, using the same “slow and steady” technique. The heat and humidity can also be very strong year-round. It’s crucial to drink plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated. A hotel with a swimming pool can be a welcome oasis to escape the midday heat.

Use a ride-hailing app like Grab for getting around. It’s incredibly cheap, efficient, and saves you from having to negotiate fares with street taxis. For your first evening, stick to the central District 1, which is where most of the main attractions, restaurants, and hotels are located. It’s a vibrant and safe area for tourists to explore on foot in the evening.

Dress for a hot and humid urban environment. Lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. A smart-casual style is appropriate for exploring the city’s colonial landmarks and for an evening drink at a rooftop bar. For women, a summer dress, a skirt, or lightweight trousers are good choices. For men, shorts or lightweight chinos and a short-sleeved shirt or polo shirt are perfect.

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are a must. While the city is modern and cosmopolitan, it’s still a good idea to have a light scarf or shawl for overly air-conditioned indoor spaces or if you plan to visit any religious sites. A small umbrella is useful for both sun protection and for the sudden downpours that can occur during the rainy season (May to November).

Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for food lovers, with an incredible range of options. For your first dinner, you could try a restaurant that offers a modern take on southern Vietnamese cuisine. A restaurant like Anan Saigon, which has been featured on “Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants,” offers innovative dishes like a $100 pho in a cool, contemporary setting. For a more traditional experience, Cuc Gach Quan is a beautiful restaurant in a restored villa that serves delicious and authentic Vietnamese home-style cooking.

This is also your first chance to dive into the world of southern Vietnamese street food. After your rooftop drink, you could explore the area around the Ben Thanh Market (the market itself is closed, but the streets around it come alive with food stalls at night). This is a great place to try southern-style “com tam” (broken rice with grilled pork) or “banh xeo” (a crispy, savory pancake). And of course, you must try a “ca phe sua da,” the famously strong and sweet Vietnamese iced coffee, which is the perfect fuel for exploring this energetic city.

The day begins with a short transfer from your hotel in Hoi An to Da Nang Airport (DAD). The flight to Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is a quick domestic flight of about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival at SGN, the most convenient way to get to your hotel in District 1 is by a pre-booked private transfer or by using a ride-hailing app like Grab from the designated pickup area. Official airport taxis are also available.

Once you are at your hotel, the colonial landmarks in District 1 are all located within a relatively compact and walkable area. The distances between Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Opera House are short. To get to a rooftop bar like the one at the Bitexco Tower, it might be a slightly longer walk or a very short and cheap Grab ride. The city center is a fascinating place to explore on foot to get a feel for its vibrant street life.

Your guided tour starts at the War Remnants Museum. Your guide will help you navigate the often-disturbing exhibits, which include graphic photographs of the war’s atrocities, and a collection of American military hardware, including tanks, planes, and helicopters, in the courtyard. The perspective is unapologetically Vietnamese, and it is a powerful and eye-opening experience. Following this, you will visit the nearby Reunification Palace (formerly the Presidential Palace), a time capsule of 1960s architecture. You will tour the grand reception rooms, the presidential living quarters, and the basement command bunker, which has been left almost exactly as it was on April 30, 1975, the day Saigon fell.

In the afternoon, you will be driven to the Cu Chi Tunnels (about 1.5-2 hours from the city). Upon arrival, you will watch a short film about the history of the tunnels. Your guide will then lead you through the jungle, showing you the cleverly disguised entrances, booby traps, and the immense craters left by B-52 bombs. The highlight for many is the opportunity to crawl through a short, widened section of the tunnels to experience the cramped and dark conditions firsthand. You will also see recreations of the underground kitchens, living quarters, and command centers. The tour provides a fascinating insight into the ingenuity and determination of the Viet Cong soldiers.

Young Travelers: At the Cu Chi Tunnels, there is a firing range where you can pay to shoot an AK-47 or other period rifles. It’s an intense and noisy experience but a unique opportunity for those interested in military history.

Seniors: The War Remnants Museum can be very emotionally intense. The Reunification Palace is large and involves stairs. The Cu Chi Tunnels site involves walking on uneven jungle paths. Crawling through the tunnels is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues or claustrophobia. It is perfectly fine to just see the entrances and exhibits above ground.

Family: The subject matter of the War Remnants Museum is very graphic and is not suitable for young children. The Reunification Palace is more appropriate. The Cu Chi Tunnels can be an interesting adventure for older children, but the historical context is very mature. The crawling part should only be done if the child is comfortable in tight, dark spaces.

Travelers with Disabilities: The War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace are partially accessible. The Cu Chi Tunnels site has uneven dirt paths and is not wheelchair accessible. The tunnels themselves are not accessible.

Luxury Travel: Your tour will be a private excursion with a historian guide and a luxury vehicle. This allows you to go at your own pace and ask in-depth questions. To decompress after an intense day, the evening could be spent at a tranquil spa followed by a quiet, gourmet dinner.

Adventure Travel: For a more adventurous and less-touristy tunnel experience, arrange a tour to the Ben Duoc tunnels, which are a different section of the same network. They are less visited by tour groups, and the tunnels you can crawl through are part of the original, narrower network, offering a more authentic and challenging experience.

Cultural Immersion: To understand another side of the city’s history, visit the Cholon district (Saigon’s Chinatown). You can explore the bustling Binh Tay Market and the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the city’s large Chinese-Vietnamese community.

• Luxury: The Reverie Saigon – A fantastically opulent and lavish luxury hotel known for its over-the-top Italian design, offering stunning city views, multiple fine-dining restaurants, and an incredible sense of grandeur.
• Mid-Range: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint – A very popular and modern hotel with a fantastic rooftop infinity pool, a cinema, and a prime location in the heart of District 1.
• Budget: The Common Room Project – A stylish and highly-rated hostel known for its great social atmosphere, rooftop bar, and focus on community, located in a more local part of the city.

The War Remnants Museum presents a very one-sided view of the conflict, and some of the language used is strong anti-American propaganda. It’s important to visit with an open mind and to view it as an opportunity to understand the war from the perspective of the Vietnamese people. The images are very graphic and can be upsetting, so be prepared for a difficult but important experience. The Cu Chi Tunnels are a major tourist attraction and can be crowded. Going with a small-group tour is often a better experience than being part of a large bus tour.

The tunnels at Cu Chi that are open to tourists have been slightly enlarged for Western frames, but they are still extremely narrow, low, and dark. If you have even a slight sense of claustrophobia, it is best not to go inside. You can still have a complete and fascinating experience by seeing all the exhibits on the surface. The ground can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season, so wear appropriate shoes.

Dress for a hot and humid day, but with a respectful tone for the morning’s museum visits. Lightweight trousers and a top that covers your shoulders is a good choice. You will be walking in the jungle at the Cu Chi Tunnels, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential. Sandals are not a good idea. The ground can be uneven and muddy, and you will want to protect your feet from insects.

A sun hat is very important for the outdoor parts of the day. Insect repellent is an absolute must for the Cu Chi Tunnels, as it is a jungle environment. You will be doing a lot of walking, so prioritize comfort. A small backpack is useful for carrying water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Most half-day tours to the Cu Chi Tunnels will have you back in Ho Chi Minh City for a late lunch. A great place to eat near the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace is Hum Vegetarian, Lounge & Restaurant. It offers delicious, beautifully presented vegetarian Vietnamese cuisine in a serene and beautiful setting, which can be a wonderful and calming contrast to the intense subject matter of the morning.

For dinner, you can explore another facet of Saigon’s food scene. This is a great night to try “banh xeo,” the crispy, savory Vietnamese pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. A famous place for this is Banh Xeo 46A. Alternatively, you could explore the street food scene in a different neighborhood. For example, District 4 is famous among locals for its incredible seafood street stalls. A guided street food tour is a great way to explore these less-touristy areas safely and deliciously.

The most common and convenient way to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels is by booking a half-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City. These tours typically include a guide and air-conditioned transport and can be combined with a morning city tour of the museums. This is the most recommended option. You can choose between a small-group tour or a private tour for a more personalized experience.

For the city sights, the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace are located in District 3, a short walk or a very quick Grab ride from the main tourist area of District 1. If you are traveling independently to Cu Chi, you can take a public bus (No. 13 from the 23/9 Park bus station), but this is a slow and more complicated option. A more exciting independent option is to book a tour that takes you to the tunnels by speedboat along the Saigon River, which avoids the road traffic and offers a unique perspective.

Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for the scenic drive into the Mekong Delta. The tour will take you to a town like Ben Tre, which is famous for its coconut production and is slightly less touristy than My Tho. Upon arrival, you will board a local boat to cruise along the wide Ham Luong River. You will visit a traditional brick kiln to see how bricks are made by hand in a centuries-old style. Your next stop will be a coconut processing workshop, where you will see every part of the coconut being used and can sample fresh coconut candy.

The tour continues with a short walk through a local village to a mat-weaving house, where you can see the craft of making traditional sedge grass mats. A highlight of the day is a ride on a “xe loi” (a type of motorized rickshaw) or a bicycle through the quiet village lanes, passing fruit orchards and lush greenery. You will then board a smaller, hand-paddled sampan for a peaceful journey through the narrow, shaded canals. After a delicious lunch of Mekong Delta specialties, such as deep-fried elephant ear fish, your driver will take you on the final leg of the journey to the city of Cần Thơ, where you will check into your hotel and have a relaxing evening.

Young Travelers: In the evening in Cần Thơ, explore the lively night market and the waterfront promenade. It’s a great place to sample local street food and enjoy the cooler evening air by the river.

Seniors: The Mekong Delta tour is generally very relaxed, with most of the activities involving seated boat rides and gentle walks. The sampan ride is very peaceful. The long car journey is the most strenuous part of the day. A private tour allows for more comfort and flexibility.

Family: This is a fantastic day for families. Children love the boat rides, especially the small sampan through the narrow canals. Visiting the coconut candy workshop (with its delicious free samples) and seeing the different fruit orchards is a fun and educational experience for them.

Travelers with Disabilities: Accessibility in the Mekong Delta can be very challenging. The boats and sampans are not wheelchair accessible and require a degree of mobility to board. The paths in the villages are often unpaved. A private tour with a larger, more stable boat might be possible, but it is essential to discuss your specific needs in detail with a specialized tour operator.

Luxury Travel: Your tour will be a private excursion in a luxury vehicle. You could opt for a trip on a smaller, more luxurious private boat, such as a restored rice barge. The tour would include a gourmet lunch at a beautiful riverside villa. In Cần Thơ, you will stay at the luxurious Azerai Cần Thơ, located on a private islet.

Adventure Travel: For a more immersive experience, book a multi-day cycling tour through the Mekong Delta. This allows you to get off the beaten path, ride through remote villages and farms, stay in local homestays, and experience the region at a much slower and more intimate pace.

Nature Travel: Your tour can focus on the incredible biodiversity of the delta. You could visit a fruit orchard that specializes in exotic tropical fruits for a tasting tour. You could also arrange a visit to a bird sanctuary, like the Tram Chim National Park (a longer trip), to see the incredible variety of birdlife that the delta supports.

• Luxury: Azerai Can Tho – An exclusive and stunningly beautiful luxury resort set on a private islet in the Hau River, offering serene villas, a world-class spa, and a tranquil escape from the city.
• Mid-Range: Victoria Can Tho Resort – A beautiful French colonial-style resort located on the banks of the Hau River, with lush gardens, a lovely swimming pool, and a classic, elegant atmosphere.
• Budget: Winter Spring Hotel – A clean and modern budget hotel with a great central location in Cần Thơ, offering comfortable rooms and friendly service at an excellent price point.

The Mekong Delta is hot and humid year-round, and you will be near water and in jungle-like environments, so insect repellent is absolutely essential. Apply it before you leave in the morning and reapply as needed. Sun protection is also key; a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves for the boat trips. It’s a good idea to have a waterproof bag or cover for your electronics in case of splashes on the boats or a sudden tropical downpour.

When you are on the small sampan boat, you may be offered a conical hat (“nón lá”) to wear. It’s not just a photo opportunity; it is incredibly practical for providing shade from the sun and shelter from a light rain. When visiting the local cottage industries, you will have the opportunity to buy the products directly. This is a great way to support the local communities, and the products are fresh and authentic. Having small denominations of cash is useful for these purchases.

Dress for a hot, humid, and sunny day on the river. Lightweight, loose-fitting, and quick-drying clothing is the best choice. A pair of shorts or lightweight trousers and a t-shirt or breathable top are ideal. A sun hat is non-negotiable for protection from the strong sun on the open boats. Comfortable sandals or shoes that you don’t mind getting a little wet are the best footwear.

A light, long-sleeved shirt can be very useful to put on for extra sun protection during the longer boat rides. A light rain jacket or poncho is also a good idea to have in your bag, as rain showers can appear suddenly. The overall style is very casual and practical, focused on staying cool and protected from the elements while you enjoy your river adventure.

Lunch is a highlight of the Mekong Delta tour and is typically included in your tour package. You will be taken to a beautiful, open-air restaurant in a garden or riverside setting. The meal will feature regional specialties, the most famous of which is the “ca tai tuong,” or deep-fried elephant ear fish. The whole fish is served vertically, and the server will help you wrap the crispy skin and succulent flesh into fresh rice paper rolls with herbs and noodles—a delicious and interactive experience.

For dinner in Cần Thơ, you have a chance to explore the culinary scene of the delta’s largest city. The waterfront area has many excellent restaurants. A great choice is L’Escale at the Victoria Can Tho Resort, which offers beautiful French-Vietnamese cuisine in a classic colonial setting. For a more local and casual experience, explore the night market or the restaurants around it, where you can find fresh seafood hotpots (“lau”), grilled meats, and other local favorites. It’s a great city for a final culinary exploration.

The journey from Ho Chi Minh City into the Mekong Delta and on to Cần Thơ is best done as part of a pre-booked, one-way private tour. This is the most efficient and comfortable way to structure the day. A private car and driver, along with a guide, will pick you up in Ho Chi Minh City, take you through the day’s activities in a place like Ben Tre, and then drop you off at your hotel in Cần Thơ in the evening. This seamless transfer removes all logistical worries.

For independent travelers, you could take a public bus from Ho Chi Minh City to a town like My Tho or Ben Tre, where you could then hire a local boat for a few hours. Afterwards, you would need to take another bus to get to Cần Thơ. While possible, this requires a lot of coordination and may not be feasible to do comfortably in a single day. The private tour option offers a much more relaxed and comprehensive experience.

Your day begins with a very early start (around 5 AM) to get to the Cai Rang Floating Market at its busiest time. You will board a private motorboat for the journey up the river. Your guide will explain how the market works. You’ll see the unique “offering poles” (cây bẹo) on each wholesale boat, where they hang a sample of the goods they are selling so that buyers can see from a distance what is on offer. Your boat can pull up alongside a pineapple boat for you to buy a fresh, expertly cut pineapple, or alongside a “pho” boat for a delicious and memorable breakfast right on the water.

After weaving through the bustling wholesale market, your boat tour will take you away from the main river and into the smaller, more peaceful canals. Here, you will visit a small, family-run business to see the traditional process of making rice noodles, from grinding the rice to steaming and cutting the delicate noodles. The tour often concludes with a stop at a tropical fruit orchard. You can walk through the gardens, learn about the different fruits that grow in the fertile delta soil, and enjoy a tasting of fresh, seasonal fruits like dragon fruit, mangoes, and jackfruit before heading back to your hotel for a late breakfast and check-out.

Young Travelers: After the morning tour, consider renting a bicycle or a scooter to explore the quiet countryside and villages around Cần Thơ on your own. It’s a great way to see more of the local, rural life.

Seniors: The early morning boat trip is a wonderful and comfortable activity, as it is all seated. The visit to the noodle factory and fruit orchard involves gentle walking on flat ground. A private boat tour is recommended for maximum comfort and a personalized pace.

Family: The floating market is a fascinating and colorful experience for children. They will love the novelty of being on a boat early in the morning, seeing all the other boats piled high with fruit, and having breakfast served from another boat. It’s a very memorable cultural experience for the whole family.

Travelers with Disabilities: Boarding the boats for the floating market tour requires some mobility and assistance. A private tour with a larger, more stable boat and helpful guides is the best option. The noodle factory and fruit orchard may have uneven, unpaved paths, making access challenging.

Luxury Travel: Your tour will be on a private, comfortable boat, perhaps a restored rice barge, complete with a freshly prepared gourmet breakfast and high-quality coffee served on board. Your guide will be a local expert who can provide deep insights into the delta’s economy and culture.

Adventure Travel: For a more authentic experience, seek out a smaller, less-touristy floating market like the Phong Dien market, which requires an even earlier start. This market has more small, stand-up paddle boats and is a more intimate (though smaller-scale) affair than the larger Cai Rang market.

Nature Travel: Your boat tour can be extended to include a visit to a nearby bird sanctuary or a more remote, ecological part of the canal system. This allows you to focus on the unique flora and fauna of the Mekong Delta, away from the main market bustle.

You will be staying at your hotel in Cần Thơ for the first part of the day before departing.

• Luxury: Azerai Can Tho – Waking up in this serene luxury resort and taking their private boat to the floating market is the ultimate Mekong Delta experience.
• Mid-Range: Victoria Can Tho Resort – This hotel has its own private boat and can arrange a fantastic and very comfortable private tour of the floating market, with breakfast served on the boat upon your return.
• Budget: Winter Spring Hotel – Its central location makes it easy to walk to the Ninh Kieu pier to meet your pre-booked boat tour for the early morning start.

The Cai Rang floating market is a wholesale market, and the main activity happens very early in the morning, between 5 AM and 7 AM. It is absolutely essential to start your boat tour before sunrise to see the market at its peak. By 9 AM, much of the main trading is finished, and the market starts to wind down. So, be prepared for a very early wake-up call—the magical experience is more than worth it.

When you are at the market, be sure to have some small cash with you to buy things from the vendor boats. Trying a bowl of hot noodle soup or a strong Vietnamese coffee from a boat while you are on your own boat is a quintessential floating market experience. It’s a great way to have breakfast. Also, be prepared for the sun; even in the early morning, it can get strong quickly, so a hat and sunscreen are still recommended.

For your very early morning boat trip, it can be slightly cool on the water before the sun comes up, so it’s a good idea to have a light jacket or a long-sleeved shirt to wear at the beginning. Once the sun is up, it will get hot quickly, so a t-shirt and shorts or lightweight trousers underneath is perfect. The style is very casual.

Comfortable sandals or shoes that you don’t mind getting a little splashed are the best footwear. A sun hat is essential once the sun rises. Since you will be returning to your hotel to check out and travel to the airport later in the day, you can wear your comfortable travel clothes for the morning’s tour. A small daypack for your camera, water, and sun protection is all you need.

Breakfast today is an adventure in itself: have it on your boat at the Cai Rang Floating Market. Your guide can help you flag down a vendor boat selling “hủ tiếu” (a delicious pork noodle soup), “cháo” (rice porridge), or other local breakfast dishes. Enjoying a hot, steaming bowl of noodles while navigating the bustling market is an unforgettable culinary experience. You can also buy fresh fruit and strong Vietnamese coffee from other boats.

After your tour, you will return to your hotel for check-out. You will likely have lunch in Cần Thơ before heading to the airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City. There are many excellent restaurants in Cần Thơ city center. This is your last chance to enjoy the specialties of the Mekong Delta, such as dishes made with fresh river fish or tropical fruits. A final, leisurely lunch is a great way to end your time in this beautiful and fertile region.

To visit the floating market, you must go by boat. The best way to do this is to pre-book a private boat tour. Your hotel can easily arrange this for you, or you can book with one of the many tour operators in Cần Thơ. A private tour allows you to go at your own pace and customize the itinerary. You will typically be picked up from your hotel and taken to the pier to board your boat.

After your morning tour and checking out of your hotel, you will need to get back to Ho Chi Minh City for your departure on the final day. The most common and convenient way is to take a private car transfer from your hotel in Cần Thơ directly to your hotel near Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. The journey takes about 3-4 hours. First-class FUTA or Thanh Buoi buses also run frequently and are a comfortable and very affordable alternative.

As this is a departure day, there are no major planned activities, allowing for maximum flexibility. A great self-guided activity for your final morning in Ho Chi Minh City is to explore a local market that you may have missed. While Ben Thanh Market is the most famous, the Binh Tay Market in the Cholon (Chinatown) district is often considered more authentic and is a fascinating place to see local life. It’s a huge, bustling wholesale market where you can find everything imaginable.

Another excellent option is to simply find a classic Vietnamese coffee shop and enjoy the local cafe culture. Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, and the coffee culture is a huge part of daily life. Find a cafe with small stools on the sidewalk, order a coffee, and watch the incredible, chaotic, and beautiful ballet of Ho Chi Minh City’s street life go by one last time. It’s a perfect, meditative, and authentic way to end your trip before your scheduled transfer to the airport.

Young Travelers: Use the morning to explore a trendy, modern neighborhood like Thao Dien in District 2, which is popular with expats and has many cool cafes, boutiques, and art spaces. It offers a completely different vibe from the city center.

Seniors: A final, leisurely breakfast at your hotel is a perfect start to the day. For a relaxing final activity, a traditional Vietnamese foot massage can be a wonderfully restorative experience after many days of walking and exploring.

Family: A final visit to a local park, like Tao Dan Park, can be a great way for kids to burn off some energy before a long flight. It’s also a place where you can see locals practicing tai chi, playing games, and even an “bird cafe” where bird owners bring their songbirds.

Travelers with Disabilities: A morning relaxing at your confirmed accessible hotel is the most comfortable option. A final visit to a modern, accessible shopping center like the Saigon Centre for some last-minute shopping can also be a good, air-conditioned activity.

Luxury Travel: Indulge in a final, luxurious brunch at one of the city’s top 5-star hotels. Enjoy a final spa treatment. Your transfer to the airport will be a pre-booked luxury private car service, ensuring a seamless and comfortable end to your Vietnamese holiday.

Adventure Travel: For one last bit of urban exploration, visit the “Cafe Apartment” building on Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This old apartment block has been converted into a vertical maze of quirky, independent cafes and boutiques, and exploring it is a fun adventure.

Cultural Immersion: Visit the FITO Museum (Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine). It’s a beautifully presented private museum in a stunning traditional-style building that offers a fascinating look into a different aspect of Vietnamese culture and heritage.

As this is a departure day, you will be checking out from your hotel from the previous night.

Plan your departure to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) carefully. The traffic in Ho Chi Minh City can be extremely congested, especially during peak hours. It is crucial to allow plenty of time for your journey to the airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight’s departure time. Confirm your transfer time with your hotel or driver to ensure a stress-free departure.

The airports in Vietnam are great places for last-minute souvenir shopping. You can find high-quality coffee beans, packaged food items like pho kits, traditional crafts, and silks, all at fixed, tax-free prices. This is a convenient place to use up any remaining Vietnamese Dong. Make sure any liquids you purchase (like fish sauce) are within the allowed limits for your luggage.

Your outfit for your final day should be all about comfort for your long flight home. A pair of comfortable trousers, a soft t-shirt, and a cozy sweater or hoodie is the perfect travel ensemble. The airplane cabins are often kept very cool, so having a warm layer is essential. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off for airport security and for the flight itself.

If you plan on doing some final exploring in the morning, your comfortable travel clothes will be perfectly fine. The climate is hot and humid, but you will be heading to the air-conditioned airport. Make sure your passport, visa (if applicable), and boarding pass are all in an easily accessible pocket or bag to ensure a smooth check-in process.

For your final meal in Vietnam, enjoy a leisurely lunch. This is your last chance to have your favorite Vietnamese dish. Whether it’s a final, perfect bowl of pho, a delicious banh mi sandwich, or some fresh spring rolls, savor the last taste of this incredible cuisine. A great option is to find a restaurant near your hotel for maximum convenience before you have to leave for the airport.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have your last meal at the airport. Tan Son Nhat International Airport has a good selection of restaurants and cafes, both before and after security. You can get a final Vietnamese meal or opt for international fast food. It’s a convenient option if you are short on time and marks the final taste of your fantastic culinary journey through Vietnam.

For any final morning explorations in Ho Chi Minh City, a ride-hailing app like Grab is the most convenient and affordable way to get around. It’s perfect for a quick trip to a market or a cafe.

To get to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) from your hotel in District 1, the most reliable and stress-free option is a pre-booked private transfer or a Grab/taxi. The journey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending heavily on the traffic conditions. There is also a public bus (No. 109) that runs from the city center to the airport, which is a very cheap option, but it can be slow and difficult with luggage.

Vietnam is an emerging destination for yoga and wellness retreats, offering serene settings that are perfect for rejuvenation. The area around Hoi An, with its peaceful countryside and beautiful beaches, is a popular spot for retreats that combine daily yoga and meditation with healthy Vietnamese cuisine and cultural activities. The mountainous regions of the north, near Sapa and Mai Chau, provide stunning backdrops of rice terraces and fresh mountain air for more rustic, nature-focused retreats. On the southern coast, islands like Phu Quoc offer luxury wellness resorts with comprehensive programs that include yoga, spa treatments, and detox plans. These retreats provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with Vietnam’s tranquil landscapes while focusing on personal well-being.

Packing for Vietnam requires lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for a hot and tropical climate. Cotton, linen, and rayon are your best friends. Pack a mix of shorts, t-shirts, skirts, and dresses. It is essential to also pack modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) for visiting temples and pagodas; a lightweight pair of trousers and a top with sleeves are must-haves. A light rain jacket or poncho is crucial, especially during the rainy season. Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals are essential. Also pack a sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and a good insect repellent. A small backpack, a reusable water bottle, and a portable power bank are also highly recommended. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned buses and planes.

Vietnam is a fantastic place for shopping, offering beautiful crafts and great value. Hoi An is the tailoring capital of the world; you can get high-quality, custom-made clothing, from suits to dresses, at a fraction of the price you’d pay at home. In Hanoi, explore the Old Quarter for beautiful silk products, lacquerware, and propaganda art posters. In the highlands, you can buy intricate, colorful textiles and handicrafts directly from the ethnic minority communities. Other popular souvenirs include “nón lá” (conical hats), coffee (Vietnam is a major producer), and handmade leather goods. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun in markets and smaller shops, but always do it with a smile and a respectful attitude. In modern boutiques and department stores, prices are fixed.

1. Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?
   Visa requirements for Vietnam change frequently. Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry for short stays (typically 15-30 days). For longer stays or for nationalities not on the visa-exemption list, an e-visa must be obtained online in advance. It is essential to check the official Vietnamese government e-visa website for the latest requirements for your specific nationality.
2. What is the currency in Vietnam?
   The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is a closed currency, meaning you can only get it once you are in Vietnam. US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but it’s best to use Dong for the best rates. ATMs are widely available in cities, and credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants.
3. Is Vietnam safe for tourists?
   Vietnam is a very safe country for tourists. The biggest issue is petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. Be vigilant with your belongings. Traffic is another major safety concern; be extremely careful when crossing the street. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
4. What is the best way to get around?
   For long distances between north, central, and south, flying is the most efficient option. For shorter distances, the train system (the “Reunification Express”) is a scenic, albeit slow, option. First-class buses are also a comfortable and affordable way to travel. Within cities, ride-hailing apps like Grab are the best, cheapest, and easiest way to get around.
5. Is the street food safe to eat?
   Yes, the street food in Vietnam is generally safe and is a highlight of any trip. The key is to eat at busy stalls that have a high turnover of customers and where you can see the food being cooked fresh in front of you. If a stall is packed with locals, it’s almost always a good sign.
6. What is the weather like?
   Vietnam has a complex climate. The south is tropical year-round (hot and humid). The north has four distinct seasons, with cool, dry winters and hot, wet summers. The central coast can be affected by typhoons from August to November. The best time to visit the whole country is generally during the spring (February-April) and autumn (September-October).
7. Can I drink the tap water?
   No, it is not safe to drink the tap water in Vietnam. Always drink bottled or filtered water. It is also advisable to avoid ice unless you are in a reputable hotel or restaurant where it is likely made from purified water.
8. What is the tipping etiquette?
   Tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam but is greatly appreciated, especially in the service industry. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is a nice gesture for good service. It is also customary to tip tour guides and private drivers at the end of their service if you are happy with their work.
9. How do I handle the traffic?
   Crossing the road in the big cities is an art form. The key is to walk slowly and at a consistent pace. Do not make sudden stops or movements. The motorbike riders are used to this and will flow around you. Find a gap, start walking, and keep a steady rhythm.
10. What is Vietnamese coffee like?
    Vietnamese coffee is typically strong, dark-roast Robusta coffee, often served with sweetened condensed milk. “Ca phe sua da” (iced coffee with condensed milk) is the most popular and is incredibly delicious and refreshing. “Ca phe trung” (egg coffee) is a Hanoian specialty that is a must-try.