Why visit Vietnam?
Vietnam offers a striking mix of historic cities, misty highlands, and river landscapes, where tradition and rapid modern growth sit side by side. You can wander ancient streets, explore scenic bays, and discover a vibrant café and street culture.
What to expect
In the south, Ho Chi Minh City buzzes with energy, markets, and rooftop views, while central Da Nang opens the door to beaches and heritage towns. Further north, Hanoi charms with lakes, narrow alleys, and easy access to dramatic limestone bays and mountain retreats.
Plan your trip
You can combine Vietnam's cities into one journey, linking culture, coast, and countryside in a single itinerary. From here, domestic connections and regional links make the country a convenient base for exploring more of mainland Southeast Asia.
Discover Vietnam
Discover Vietnam
Top experiences in Vietnam
Explore Ho Chi Minh City's historic landmarks
Walk past French-era architecture, museums, and lively boulevards that tell the story of the city’s changing identity.
Stroll Hanoi's Old Quarter and lakes
Lose yourself in narrow streets, artisan shops, and tranquil lakeside paths that soften the pace of the capital.
Relax on Da Nang's sandy coastline
Spend unhurried days on long city beaches, with modern resorts and cafés set between sea and mountains.
Cruise among limestone karsts
Join a day or overnight cruise in northern bays to glide past towering cliffs, caves, and floating villages.
Visit ancient towns near Da Nang
Take short trips to well-preserved trading towns and riverside streets glowing with lanterns in the evening.
Sample Vietnam's street-side café culture
Pause at pavement cafés for strong local coffee and people-watching on almost every corner.
Join a countryside bicycle tour
Cycle through quiet lanes, rice fields, and village paths just beyond the edges of the main cities.
Experience Vietnam's way of life
Getting around
Vietnam's main cities are linked by a network of domestic flights, long-distance trains, and intercity buses. Within Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hanoi, you can combine taxis, ride-hailing services, and walking to move efficiently between key districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Vietnam unfolds on the streets, from morning markets to evening meet-ups at tiny pavement stools. You will notice differences between the more fast-paced south, laid-back central coast, and tradition-rich north, each with distinct architecture, crafts, and customs.
Where to unwind
When you need a break from the city, you can find calm in tree-lined lakes, riverfront promenades, or city beaches. Longer stays open up chances to retreat to hill stations, quiet fishing villages, or wellness resorts along the central and southern coasts.
A taste of Vietnam
National dishes & specialties
Vietnam is known for fragrant noodle soups, grilled meats, fresh herbs, and crisp baguette-style sandwiches. Each region adds its own twist, from rich broths in the north to herb-forward dishes and seafood along the central and southern coasts.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hanoi, you can eat well at every level, from humble street stalls to modern dining rooms. Districts packed with cafés, casual eateries, and contemporary bistros make it easy to sample regional flavours in a single stay.
Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, you can dine in converted colonial villas, riverside terraces, or rooftop restaurants with sweeping skyline views. Coastal and lakeside settings, as well as dinner cruises in select areas, add a memorable backdrop to local and modern cuisine.
Retail therapy in Vietnam
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hanoi feature modern malls with international labels, cinemas, and dining floors. These air-conditioned centres sit alongside smaller boutiques where you can find local designers and contemporary homeware.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and craft districts showcase textiles, lacquerware, and handmade souvenirs at a range of price points. Areas in and around Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City are especially known for tailored clothing, art, and region-specific handicrafts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, some streets and market areas stay lively with illuminated stalls and late-opening shops. In key city districts you can browse for fashion, accessories, and snacks as the temperature cools and the pavements fill with people.
Best time to visit Vietnam
November to March (peak season)
In many parts of Vietnam, especially the south and central coast, this period is generally cooler and drier, with averages around 24–28°C (75–82°F). It is popular for city exploring and beach breaks, so key destinations can feel busier.
April to August (shoulder season)
Temperatures rise across much of the country, often reaching 28–34°C (82–93°F), with higher humidity and more sunshine. Coastal areas are warm for swimming, while higher-altitude regions offer some relief from the heat.
September to October (low season)
These months can bring increased rainfall and occasional storms in some regions, with temperatures about 24–30°C (75–86°F). Visitor numbers are typically lower, and you may experience more changeable conditions alongside quieter attractions.