Vietnam offers an exciting blend of vibrant cities, rich history, spectacular landscapes, and world-renowned street food culture.
For international tourists contemplating the perfect vietnam tour, this guide provides an in -depth look at some of the best destinations and culinary experiences across the country.
Whether you’re visiting during the pleasant spring months or the cool autumn season, each city has its own unique allure and local flavours ready to be savoured on specific monthly highlights.
Best Places to Experience Vietnam’s Beauty and Culture
1. Ha Giang Loop – Vietnam’s Ultimate Mountain Adventure
If you’re looking for a truly authentic experience on your Vietnam tour, the Ha Giang Loop should be at the top of your list.
This rural mountain bike route offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country — dramatic limestone peaks, winding roads, and colorful ethnic villages untouched by mass tourism.
Tip:
Plan aside at least 5 days to finish the entire loop. If you’re short on time, a shorter version still offers incredible sights. Rather than rushing, allow time to stop, walk around, and explore each evening — the small villages have so much character and charm to discover.
2. Cát Bà Island – An Untouched Gem in Ha Long Bay
Instead of opting for a traditional boat tour of Ha Long Bay, consider exploring Cat Ba Island for a more immersive experience. Picture jungle-covered mountains and dramatic cliffs — Jack Black’s King Kong movie even used this area as a backdrop!
Take the scenic ferry from Ha Long City (rather than Hai Phong) to Cat Ba, passing through stunning island landscapes along the way.
For accommodation, Cat Ba Eco Lodge is highly recommended. Tucked away from the bustling town, it offers complete tranquility.
Tip:
Spend one night at the Eco Lodge for serenity, and one night in town for a livelier atmosphere. If you’re looking for a party scene, check out Woodstock Jungle Camp, which occasionally hosts festivals.
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful old towns, offering a perfect balance between culture, shopping, and relaxation. With its lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and a wide range of amazing restaurants, Hoi An has been carefully preserved to welcome tourists without losing its authenticity.
Just 10 minutes from the old town, you’ll find An Bang Beach — a stunning and peaceful stretch of sand perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Tip:
This is the best place in Vietnam for custom-made clothing and leather goods. Whether you want a tailor-made suit or handcrafted bags, Hoi An delivers quality at great prices.
4. Huế – The Timeless Ancient Capital
For history lovers, Hue is a must-visit on any Vietnam tour.
Known as Vietnam’s ancient capital, Hue offers beautifully restored historical sites that feel authentic and rich in atmosphere — a rare find in the country.
Tip:
Stay inside the Imperial Citadel for a truly immersive experience. Wandering the citadel’s grounds, temples, and palaces gives you a deep connection to Vietnam’s royal past, making it an unforgettable stop on your journey.
5. Hanoi – Where Tradition Meets Modern Energy
A trip to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Hanoi, the country’s lively city.
Hanoi masterfully blends the old and the new — you’ll find ancient temples, French colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a rapidly growing modern scene, all coexisting in one fascinating city.
Begin your tour by exploring the Old Quarter, a bustling area with stores, street food sellers, and secret cafes.
Tip:
Visit Hanoi between October and December. During these months, the weather is warm, dry, and the air is much cleaner — making it an ideal time to explore the city’s bustling streets and beautiful parks. This season is cooler and less polluted than others.
Vietnamese Iconic Dishes You Must Try
1. Phở – Vietnam’s Soul in a Bowl
A bowl of phở is the true heart of Vietnamese cuisine and a must-try on any Vietnam tour.
This fragrant noodle soup features slow-cooked beef or chicken broth, infused with star anise, cinnamon, and charred onions for a deep, layered flavor.
Topped with tender slices of meat, flat rice noodles, and a generous handful of fresh herbs, each serving of phở is a comforting, soul-warming experience — especially when enjoyed at a bustling local stall early in the morning.
Tip:
Don’t be afraid to customize your phở by adding more herbs, chili, or lime for extra freshness and flavor. It’s also common to pair it with a side of fried dough sticks for a satisfying crunch!
2. Bánh Mì – A Crunchy Bite of Fusion Flavor
A perfect blend of French and Vietnamese influences, bánh mì is a crispy baguette that is split open and filled with savory layers of pâté, grilled pork or chicken, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and spicy chili sauce.
The contrast between the crunchy bread and the juicy fillings creates an explosion of textures and flavors that perfectly captures Vietnam’s rich cultural history and creativity.
Tip:
Grab a bánh mì from a local street vendor, where the sandwich is made fresh to order. Be sure to try different fillings, as many regions have their own special take on this iconic dish!
3. Bún Chả – Smoky Grilled Perfection
No visit to Vietnam is complete without savoring bún chả, a dish that offers a true taste of Hanoi’s culinary spirit.
Charcoal-grilled pork belly and meatballs are served in a bowl of lightly sweetened fish sauce, accompanied by a mountain of fresh herbs and a plate of soft rice noodles.
Tip:
Mix your rice noodles into the sauce and herbs for a well-rounded bite. Don’t forget to dip the meat into the sauce for an extra hit of flavor!
4. Gỏi Cuốn – Fresh and Flavorful Spring Rolls
Light, fresh, and healthy, gỏi cuốn is the perfect snack or appetizer to enjoy while exploring Vietnam. These translucent rice paper rolls are packed with shrimp, slices of pork, crisp greens, vermicelli noodles, and fragrant herbs.
Typically served with a rich hoisin-peanut dipping sauce, gỏi cuốn offers a refreshing break from heavier dishes. It’s a simple yet flavorful reminder of the importance of fresh ingredients throughout your Vietnam tour.
Tip:
Gỏi cuốn is best enjoyed when eaten fresh, so watch for places where they’re made to order. You can also try rolling your own at cooking classes for a fun, interactive experience!
5. Bún Bò Huế – Vietnam’s Hearty, Spiced Treasure
Rich, spicy, and full of depth, Bún Bò Huế offers a more intense alternative to phở. For travelers seeking bold flavors on their Vietnam tour, bún bò Huế is an unforgettable experience.
This spicy beef noodle soup, originating from the royal city of Hue, features a broth deeply scented with lemongrass, chili oil, and shrimp paste.
Thicker, rounder noodles set it apart from phở, while tender slices of beef, oxtail, and pork make every bowl rich and hearty. Each spoonful is a fiery, aromatic taste of Vietnam’s imperial past.
Tip:
If you’re not used to spice, start with a small amount of chili oil and work your way up. Be sure to savor the broth — it’s the star of the dish!
Conclusion
From the winding mountain passes of Ha Giang to the lantern-lit streets of Hội An, and from steaming bowls of phở to the spicy depths of bún bò Huế, Vietnam is a destination that excites every sense.
This vibrant country offers not only breathtaking scenery and rich history but also unforgettable culinary experiences that reflect its deep-rooted traditions and regional diversity.
With helpful tips and seasonal highlights, this Vietnam tour bucket list ensures you don’t just visit Vietnam — you truly experience it.
So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with the magic of Vietnam, one city and one bite at a time.
