Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam occupies the eastern and southern part of the Indochinese peninsula in south-east Asia. It has land borders to its north with China, and to the west with Laos and Cambodia. Its extensive east coast looks over the South China Sea.

Vietnam’s land is mostly hilly and densely forested, with small amounts of level land. It has two extensive alluvial deltas formed by the Red River in the north and the Mekong River in the south. Between these two deltas is a long, relatively narrow coastal plain.

The country is an ideal beach destination with some of Asia’s top surfing and diving scenes. It is also great for cultural sightseeing with colonial-era buildings, open-air markets, stunning cuisine, its landscape of rice paddies, rugged mountains, and untouched hill-tribe villages.

Southern Vietnam

From island getaways to non-stop excitement, southern Vietnam offers a mix of vibrant urban energy and serene countryside.Begin your journey in the sensory wonderland of Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis where traditional mom-and-pop shops stand alongside modern skyscrapers. Beyond the city, the tranquil Mekong Delta awaits, with life unfolding on the water and endless stretches of farmland.Nearby, Mui Ne attracts visitors with its relaxed beach atmosphere and reputation as Vietnam's kite-surfing capital. Offshore, islands like Phu Quoc and Con Dao beckon with pristine coastlines and untouched natural beauty.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown (with maps)!

Ho Chi Minh City, Free Self-Guided Walking Tour (with Maps!)

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Vung Tau

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is renowned for its well-preserved historical sites, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty. The central coast invites you with promises of enriching experiences and sun-kissed beach days.Wander the narrow streets of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, where timber-framed shophouses remain as they did centuries ago, and the streets glow with colorful lanterns each night. Discover the final days of the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue, where royal citadels, tombs, and temples are scattered along the peaceful Perfume River.Between these historic cities, modern Danang offers a taste of Vietnam’s luxurious resorts and top golf courses, along with one of the country's best beaches. Just a few hours away, Phong Nha’s spectacular caves await nature enthusiasts seeking new adventures.

Must-do Da Nang: An insider’s list

Best Things To Do And See In Hue Vietnam

24 Hours in Hue: Your Ultimate One Day Itinerary

Hoi An, Self Guided Walking Tour (Maps)

Dalat Da Nang Hoi An Hue Nha Trang Quy Nhon

Northern Vietnam

The northern region of Vietnam impresses with its majestic mountain ranges, ancient rice terraces, and diverse ethnic communities.Hanoi, situated along the Red River, is a city where time stands still yet races forward. The city's atmospheric Old Quarter, serene Hoan Kiem Lake, and classic colonial architecture are sure to enchant visitors. Hanoi boasts excellent museums and art galleries, and its abundant and delicious street food will satisfy any appetite. Enjoy the city's timeless rhythm by pulling up a chair at one of its many charming cafes and watching life unfold.Just a short distance from Hanoi lies Ninh Binh, a fairy tale landscape featuring sheer limestone cliffs rising from paddy fields. Rowboats offer a mesmerizing journey through the area's river caves. A trip to northern Vietnam wouldn't be complete without a cruise on Halong Bay, where you can marvel at the thousands of islets and the bay's deep emerald waters.