Places to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam provides a mesmerising fusion of breathtaking natural beauty, extensive history, and dynamic culture. Discover the crowded streets of Hanoi, the breathtaking limestone formations of Halong Bay, and the historic Hoi An. Discover Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant markets and French colonial buildings, then unwind on Phu Quoc's gorgeous beaches. Vietnam delivers an amazing vacation experience with its varied scenery and friendly people.

Best time to visit Vietnam

• Did you know?

  • The most significant holiday in Vietnam is the Tet Festival, generally referred to as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Based on the lunar calendar, it normally occurs between late January and mid-February. Although many shops and tourist destinations could be closed, this is a great time to enjoy the nation's rich cultural customs.

  • Two main climatic zones exist in Vietnam. While the south has a tropical climate, the north has a distinct winter that lasts from November to February.

Vietnam's varied climate from north to south provides a variety of travel opportunities all year round.

• Winter (December-February): Due to the cold, dry weather, this is an excellent time to travel to the North (Hanoi, Halong Bay). The weather is good in the Central area (Hue, Hoi An). South Vietnam, on the other hand, is warmer and occasionally wet (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta).

Travel tip: At a little café in Hanoi's Old Quarter, have a cup of egg coffee while embracing the cooler North American climate. Try the well-known Café Giang, which is credited with inventing this unusual beverage.

• Spring (March – April): The best season for the whole nation is spring. Days in the North are pleasant, and in Hanoi, flowers are in blossom. The weather is pleasant and the skies are clear in central Vietnam. It's warm and dry down south.

Travel tip: Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, which occurs in January or February, is celebrated with the community. Discover customs from the past, colourful parades, and brilliant decorations.

• Summer (May–August): The region of Northern Vietnam has hot, muggy weather with sporadic showers. While the South experiences extreme heat and torrential rain, the Central region enters its rainy season.

Travel tip: Visit the mountain village of Dalat to escape the heat for a while. Take a stroll around the floral gardens, delight in the lovely weather, and ride a paddleboat on Xuan Huong Lake.

• Fall (September-November): The beautiful weather makes it a popular time to explore North and Central Vietnam. Till November, it continues to rain in the South.

Travel tip: Visit the province of Ha Giang to take in the majesty of the buckwheat flower fields in bloom. Every year in October, the town of Dong Van holds a buckwheat flower festival.

For particular months:

• In Sapa and Hanoi, cherry blossoms bloom in March and April.

• Sapa has gorgeous rice terraces from September to November.

• A full moon lantern festival takes place in Hoi An in October.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

• Did you know?

  • The breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay is not only visually appealing but also rich in legend. The word "Halong" means "Descending Dragon." The tall limestone karsts that dominate the bay, according to local tradition, were built by dragons who descended from the heavens to defend the region from invaders. The distinctive features of the bay were shaped by their thrashing tails.

  • In addition to being a work of art from an architectural standpoint, Hoi An's famous Japanese Covered Bridge has a well-kept secret. Rumour has it that the bridge was built during the Hour of the Monkey and the Year of the Monkey, which the people thought would be unlucky.

There are many amazing places to visit in Vietnam that may accommodate different interests.

1. Halong Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site noted for its green waters and soaring limestone karsts is Halong Bay. To experience the breathtaking vistas, go on a cruise.

Travel tip: To witness the magnificent sunrise above the karst rocks, get up early. The pleasant morning setting is ideal for taking pictures and reflecting quietly.

2. Hanoi: The vibrant capital of Vietnam combines traditional charm with contemporary vitality. Street food is enjoyed when you stroll through the Old Quarter's history and visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Travel tip: Join a passionate guide on a street food tour in the Old Quarter to enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine while learning about the history and culture of the region.

3. Hoi An: The maintained architecture and lantern-lit streets of this historic town have earned it worldwide renown. Explore its old streets, stop by tailors, and take in the Riverside Night Market.

Travel tip: Attend a workshop to learn how to make a traditional lantern, then release it into the Thu Bon River during the festival every month to witness a wonderful sight.

4. Ho Chi Minh: Ho Chi Minh Metropolis Formerly known as Saigon, this vibrant city provides a blend of skyscrapers and French colonial architecture. Enjoy the bustling street life and the War Remnants Museum.

Travel tip: Join a motorbike tour to discover the city's hidden beauties. Explore the local way of life as you speed through busy streets and tight alleys.

5. Sapa: Sapa in the North offers breathtaking terraced rice fields and a chance to interact with communities of ethnic minorities. For those who love the outdoors, hiking here is a must.

6. National Park of Phong Nha-Ke Bang: A haven for intrepid travellers with the biggest cave networks on earth. Discover the breathtaking caves and green surroundings.

Travel tip: For a really epic journey, go on a cave expedition to explore the strange landscapes found inside tunnels like Son Doong, the largest cave in the world.

7. Da Nang: Known for its sandy beaches and the Golden Bridge, which is famously held up by enormous stone hands. Enjoy the lively environment by going to the Marble Mountains.

Travel tip: To avoid the crowds and to experience the tranquil atmosphere while exploring the caverns, pagodas, and panoramic overlooks, head to the Marble Mountains early in the morning.

8. Mui Ne: An exceptional seaside jewel with red and white sand dunes. Sandboard, go kitesurfing and take in the beautiful beaches.

Remember that each of these places has its own unique charm and experiences, making Vietnam a fascinating and varied place to visit.

Nightlife places in Vietnam

• Tips for first-time visitors:

  • When enjoying the nightlife in Vietnam, try to fit in by adopting local practices. Start by taking a stroll around a night market, such as the Old Quarter Night Market in Hanoi or the Ben Thanh Night Market in Ho Chi Minh City. Try some street food, bargain with the traders, and take part in the lively scene.

  • Travelling in groups, especially in busy areas, will increase your safety. Utilise trustworthy ride-hailing services like Grab for safe travelling after dark. In ahead, look up the dress codes and cover costs for local bars and clubs. Choose well-known locations to avoid unpleasant surprises.

From lively metropolises to peaceful seaside towns, Vietnam's nightlife culture has something to offer everyone. Here are some prime locations for nightlife, with examples:

1. Ho Chi Minh City: Ho Chi Minh City, often known as Saigon The nightlife in this vibrant city is flourishing. For a vibrant scene filled with bars, clubs, and food carts, visit Bui Vien Street.

Nightlife tip: Visit rooftop pubs like "Chill Skybar" to discover them for expansive city views. Avoid the crowds by going during the week and drinking your drink while admiring the magnificent skyline.

2. Hanoi: The nightlife in the capital city is vibrant. Bars, places to hear live music and night markets may all be found in the Old Quarter. For crisp beer and an authentic atmosphere, visit "Bia Hoi Corner".

3. Da Nang: At night, the pubs and clubs along the beach in this seaside city come alive. Don't miss "Sky36"; it's one of Vietnam's tallest rooftop bars and offers spectacular views.

Nightlife tip: On weekends, watch the mesmerising Dragon Bridge performance, where the bridge is lit up in vibrant colours and shoots fire and water. It is a distinctive blending of technology and tradition.

4. Nha Trang: Nha Trang, which is well-known for its beaches, offers a variety of bars and clubs along its shoreline. For beach parties, "Sailing Club" is a well-known location.

5. Hoi An: Hoi An provides a picturesque nightlife with lantern-lit streets, riverside bars, and live music, albeit it is not as intense as big cities. A well-liked option is "Funky Monkey".

Nightlife tip: On the fourteenth day of every lunar month, don't miss the Full Moon Lantern Festival. It's a peaceful and enchanting experience to buy a lantern, make a wish, and release it into the river.

6. Phu Quoc Island: Enjoy the laid-back island vibe of the beachside bars and clubs. "Rory's Beach Bar" is a tranquil location to view the setting sun.

Nightlife tip: Visit Star Beach Cinema for a distinctive moviegoing experience. In order to create a comfortable and cinematic evening, watch flicks on the beach while relaxing on bean bags under the stars.

7. Hue: Discover the local nightlife, which includes 'Brown Eyes Bar' with performances of traditional music on the Perfume River.

Nightlife tip: Select a nighttime Imperial City tour in Hue. Compared to visits made during the day, the lit historical complex gives a different viewpoint and a more tranquil setting.

8. Sapa: After a long day of hiking, rest in a neighbourhood pub like "The Hmong Sisters" while exchanging travel tales with other tourists.

Important things to know/ tips for visiting these locations in Vietnam

When visiting these places in Vietnam, bear the following advice in mind:

1. Honour regional traditions and customs. When visiting temples and other holy buildings, dress modestly.

2. Enjoy the fantastic street food scene in Vietnam, but choose vendors with busy stalls to ensure freshness and quality.

3. Traffic in Vietnamese cities is heavy. When crossing the street, be sure to look both ways, move slowly, and give motorcycles room to pass.

4. When negotiating pricing at markets, remember to treat everyone with respect and goodwill.

5. Carry enough cash, especially in remote places where credit cards might not be commonly accepted. The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong.

6. It can become hot and muggy outside. Keep yourself hydrated, cover up with sunscreen, and avoid the sun.

7. A few simple Vietnamese phrases can greatly improve communication and demonstrate respect.

8. Avoid fraud, especially in popular tourist locations. Study common swindles in advance.

9. Before travelling to Vietnam, find out if you need a visa. Also, make sure your passport has enough time left on it.

10. To prepare for any unforeseen circumstances, it is advisable to get complete travel insurance.

11. Consider the impact you have on the environment. Participate in eco-friendly activities and refrain from using single-use plastics.

12. Pack appropriately as the weather in Vietnam varies by place and season.

Conclusion

Finally, Vietnam presents a captivating tapestry of adventures. Each location highlights a different aspect of this alluring nation, from the timeless grandeur of Halong Bay to the busy streets of Hanoi, the historic charm of Hoi An, and the vibrant nightlife of places like Ho Chi Minh City. You're sure to make lifelong memories and gain a greater understanding of Vietnam by immersing yourself in its fascinating culture and breathtaking natural beauty.

FAQs

1. Do I need to have any concerns about safety when trekking in Sapa?

While it's normally safe to go trekking in Sapa, it's crucial to use a reliable guide, wear the proper clothing, and use caution on slick trails.

2. What makes Halong Bay special?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is renowned for its emerald waters and soaring limestone islands, which together create an unreal panorama.

3. What makes visiting the Golden Bridge in Da Nang so special?

The Golden Bridge is renowned for its original structure, which is supported by enormous stone hands. It provides breathtaking all-encompassing views of the surrounding mountains and scenery.

4. In Hanoi, can I rent a motorcycle?

You can rent motorbikes in Hanoi, but you should always wear a helmet and be mindful of the road. International driver's licences are advised.