<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nDespite the varying climates across the country and the fact that there\u2019s always something to see in Vietnam year-round, the best time to visit is between April and June<\/strong>. During these months, the north is no longer cold, and the temperatures across the country are more pleasant\u2014not oppressively hot and humid. Although Vietnam generally has a tropical climate, it\u2019s always a good idea to bring a jacket, as it can still get cold in the north.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nBonus tip:<\/strong> If Sapa is on your itinerary, spring is the best time to visit to coincide with the blooming of flower fields. The T\u1ebft celebrations, marking Vietnamese New Year, usually take place in late January or early February. While the festivities are a lot of fun, traveling during this time can be tricky\u2014flights and buses get booked weeks in advance, and many businesses shut down.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nAs for the beaches, the best time to visit places like Hoi An and Hue is from March to August. A little farther south in Nha Trang\u2014one of the most beautiful natural spots\u2014the weather is excellent all year round.<\/p>\n\n\n
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<\/span>Rainy season in Vietnam<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe rainy season in Vietnam can be a bit of a challenge. Though it officially runs from May to November<\/strong>, heavy storms can occur at any time. Typhoons also hit the country a couple of times each year.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRains can cause flooding and disrupt transportation, especially in rural and coastal areas. Typhoons can strike hard between September and December<\/strong>, so it\u2019s wise to keep an eye on weather forecasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor updated and detailed information on the weather and other travel recommendations, check your country’s official foreign travel advisory website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to see in Vietnam?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Hanoi \u2013 The capital and gateway to the country<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nFew places in the world offer the almost overwhelming splendor of Vietnam, and this magic is especially evident in its largest cities: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. This journey dives deep into the heart of one of Asia\u2019s most radiant and resilient countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With more than 1,000 years of history<\/strong>, Hanoi is one of the oldest cities in Asia. A fascinating, highly appealing blend of East and West has made the capital not only a gateway into Vietnam but also a destination in its own right for urban tourism lovers. Bustling, chaotic, and steeped in history, Hanoi holds tightly to its past. You can feel it in the Old Quarter, where a stroll is a must (always watch out for the relentless traffic\u2014traffic lights are more of a suggestion) or hop into a tuk-tuk.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHanoi\u2019s streets are full of life and energy, with a very recognizable soundtrack: speeding motorbikes and cars inching through traffic. Alongside them, street vendors stir pots and pans, offering noodle soups and grilled pork. It\u2019s the city\u2019s most iconic scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Entering Vietnam<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nHanoi is an amazing place to see in Vietnam. It\u2019s a perfect destination for a getaway any time of year, although April to June tends to bring more pleasant weather. It\u2019s also the most common entry point into the country, so it\u2019s worth keeping a few things in mind before landing. One of the most important things to note is that citizens of certain countries can travel to Vietnam for up to 45 days without a visa<\/strong>, depending on current visa exemption agreements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to do and what to eat in Hanoi<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nA must-see stop is the famous Train Street<\/strong>\u2014an iconic passage where the train tracks take up every inch, and when a train comes through, there\u2019s barely a sliver of space between the cars and the house facades. The Old Quarter is a perfect place to get lost among lively night markets, lit by lanterns that create a picture-perfect Vietnamese postcard scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Street food in Hanoi<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nIt happens throughout the city, but here in particular, you absolutely have to try the local street food. Dishes like pho<\/strong>\u2014Vietnam\u2019s most basic and iconic dish\u2014are everywhere. It\u2019s a soup found across the country, though it varies from place to place (in Hanoi, pho is a bit spicier and slightly more bland than the version in Saigon, for example).<\/p>\n\n\n\nAnd topping the local food charts is the delicious and ultra-popular banh mi<\/strong>. It\u2019s a kind of sandwich that Vietnamese people eat every morning, but it\u2019s perfect any time of day. Just like egg coffee<\/strong> (ca phe trung), which you absolutely can\u2014and should\u2014enjoy at any hour. It\u2019s a sweet drink made with egg, condensed milk, and black coffee, originally created in the 1940s during a milk shortage in the city. It\u2019s only for the brave!<\/p>\n\n\n\nVietnam\u2019s capital is a street food paradise. A maze of noisy streets absolutely packed with traffic, where suddenly\u2014light, or rather, food\u2014appears. Numerous vendors serve up spicy soups, glazed meats, and rice paper rolls stuffed with vegetables. Street food culture reigns supreme here, and both the Old Quarter and the Truc Bach area are perfect for sampling some of the most revered bites. Like the one that Barack Obama himself helped elevate to global fame at Bun Cha Huong Lien<\/strong>, enjoying the famous bun cha<\/strong> (grilled pork with noodles).<\/p>\n\n\n\nWith your taste buds satisfied, there\u2019s nothing better for the soul than soaking in a beautiful sunset at Tran Quoc Pagoda<\/strong>, while every shade in the color palette paints the sky. This is Hanoi\u2019s golden hour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Top attractions in Hanoi<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Temple of Literature<\/strong>, founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, is one of the oldest universities in Asia. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<\/strong> and the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum<\/strong> are also must-visit stops when exploring Vietnam.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s also worth catching a water puppet show, a traditional form of theater that dates back to the 11th century. For the full experience, visit the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater<\/strong> in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Ho Chi Minh \u2013 The allure of old Saigon<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou\u2019ll know someone\u2019s local when they refer to Ho Chi Minh not as Ho Chi Minh, but as Saigon<\/strong>. It\u2019s quite possibly the city where the contrast between old and new is most perfectly expressed. Founded by the French in the 17th century as a small trading post, it still bears a fabulous architectural legacy and boasts a more European-influenced lifestyle than its northern counterpart, Hanoi. The surprising juxtaposition of gleaming skyscrapers with centuries-old temples and pagodas makes this city full of contrasts, deserving at least a couple of days to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere are two things that will always accompany you in Ho Chi Minh City: the ever-present humidity<\/strong>, no matter the hour, and the hunger<\/strong> stirred by the city\u2019s street food, which is spicier and more flavorful than the cuisine in the north. But before diving into the food scene, it\u2019s worth strolling through the modern face of the city, where the younger generations are building new businesses and bringing about change, all while honoring their cultural heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Must-sees in Saigon<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nOne of the most powerful heritage sites is the Cu Chi Tunnels<\/strong>. Dug by the Viet Cong and located in the northern district, they offer a harrowing look into the Vietnam\u2013U.S. war. This is not just any visit\u2014it\u2019s a humbling experience in a place where more than 45,000 Vietnamese men and women are said to have died defending the tunnels. Now protected by the Vietnamese government, this visit is without question a must-see in Vietnam. It\u2019s not just a walk through history\u2014it\u2019s literally crawling through it, exploring some of the tunnels, seeing explosive traps, and even trying a typical soldier\u2019s meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>What to eat in Ho Chi Minh<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBuilt in 1909 to honor the Jade Emperor<\/strong>, or King of Heaven, the Jade Emperor Pagoda<\/strong> is a beautiful temple in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Its intricate wooden decor makes it perfect for Instagram\u2014every snapshot is a hit, much like the local dishes themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Banh Cuon<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nBanh Cuon<\/strong> is a delicate rice sheet cooked to perfection and filled with a generous helping of minced pork, mushrooms, and onion. It\u2019s served in small pieces and typically eaten for breakfast, with a splash of fish sauce (a staple in Vietnamese cooking), bean sprouts, and cucumber. And if street food is a must throughout Vietnam, then in Saigon, it\u2019s absolutely essential. Top spots to try it include Banh Cuon Hai Nam<\/strong> or at 11A \u0110\u01b0\u1eddng Cao Th\u1eafng<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Banh Xeo<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nAnother classic southern Vietnamese dish is banh xeo<\/strong>, a large savory crepe named for the sizzling sound it makes while cooking. It\u2019s filled with equal parts pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, typically served for breakfast or lunch\u2014of course, with fish sauce. Where to try it: Banh Xeo 46A<\/strong> (featured in the Michelin Guide) and also at 11A \u0110\u01b0\u1eddng Cao Th\u1eafng<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Banh Trang Tron<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nA dish you won\u2019t find outside of Ho Chi Minh City is Banh Trang Tron<\/strong>. It was created by street vendors on Van Kiep Street and Su Van Hanh Street. It\u2019s a relatively small snack eaten in one bite\u2014a mix of rice paper served like a salad with eggs (usually quail eggs), slices of mango, squid, basil, and mint. You can\u2014and should\u2014try it at the street stalls on Van Kiep or Su Van Hanh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019re also likely to find the best banh mi<\/strong> in Saigon at Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai<\/strong>, a tiny street stand on Nguyen Tai Street. The bread is freshly baked, and the filling\u2014grilled sausage, thinly sliced pork, cucumbers, cilantro, and chili\u2014overflows from the crusty loaf, making it almost impossible to close.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMost travelers to Vietnam follow a well-worn path between five iconic destinations: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hu\u1ebf, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Even returning visitors rarely stray from the \u201cH\u2019s\u201d\u2014and for good reason. They\u2019re all worth the visit and are connected by a convenient route from north to south, with quick flights or scenic train rides in between. Renting a car and traveling on your own is very difficult in Vietnam, so planes and trains are the most logical means of transportation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Halong Bay \u2013 A UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nDeclared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Halong Bay<\/strong> boasts over 1,600 limestone islands and islets that form one of the most surreal landscapes imaginable. Due to its extraordinary beauty and geological value, it is not only one of Vietnam\u2019s top destinations but also one of the most coveted travel spots worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to see in Vietnam: Halong Bay<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nOne of the bay\u2019s main tourist attractions is Sung Sot Cave<\/strong>, also known as the \u201cSurprise Cave.\u201d It features two vast chambers believed to have formed more than 20 million years ago, with stunning interior formations like stalactites and stalagmites. On a less earthly, yet equally fascinating note, the bay is also home to floating fishing villages<\/strong>. These communities have developed a unique way of life centered around fishing and pearl farming, passed down through generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe best\u2014and nowadays almost the only\u2014way to explore the bay is by cruise<\/strong>. There are numerous cruise lines offering services that range from basic (beware of the ultra-cheap options) to luxurious. Most depart from Tuan Chau<\/strong> or Hon Gai<\/strong> ports, with itineraries tailored to all preferences\u2014from overnight stays to extended adventures that evoke the cinematic atmosphere of Indochine<\/em>, where Catherine Deneuve witnesses the fall of the French colonial empire.<\/p>\n\n\n\nActivities like kayaking<\/strong>, fishing<\/strong>, sunrise tai chi classes<\/strong>, and Vietnamese cooking lessons<\/strong> are commonly offered aboard, for those who might\u2014if it\u2019s even possible\u2014grow tired of admiring such a unique landscape. And since weather matters a great deal in Vietnam, the best time to visit Halong Bay is from March to October<\/strong>, ideally avoiding the summer months due to heavy rainfall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to see in Vietnam: Hue \u2013 A journey to the former Capital<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe former capital is an essential stop in Vietnam. It’s the perfect destination for a couple of days surrounded by culture, history, and a mystical atmosphere that envelops travelers at every turn. Hue<\/strong> is home to one of Vietnam\u2019s few UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Imperial City<\/strong>. Surrounded by moats, dotted with pagodas and mausoleums, this \u201cmasterpiece of urban poetry,\u201d as described by a UNESCO official, offers much more than historical landmarks and museum pieces.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLocated on the banks of the Perfume River<\/strong>, the city has awakened from the slumber of the past and now features art galleries<\/strong>, boutiques from young designers<\/strong>, and, of course, a delicious culinary scene<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to see in Hue<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nDiving into Hue\u2019s historical past, the Thien Mu Pagoda<\/strong> is arguably the city’s most famous monument and even considered a symbol of Hue. The surrounding gardens are a pleasant place for a stroll, especially in the late afternoon when street vendors set up as the sunset creates a postcard-worthy display of color.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s also something you don\u2019t see but can deeply feel: Imperial Music (Ca Hue)<\/strong>. Recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, it originates from the imperial court and is known for its grace and elegance. It is performed not only during special events but also in everyday life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>What to do in Hue<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSomething that might seem daring in Hanoi or Saigon is actually highly recommended in Hue: renting a bicycle<\/strong> to explore the city. Hue\u2019s iconic yellow bikes with baskets are easy to rent for tourists and can be picked up and dropped off at different locations throughout the city. One of the best cycling routes is from Thien Mu Pagoda to Truong Tien Bridge<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAn architectural curiosity in Hue is its beautiful garden houses<\/strong>, an important part of the city’s cultural heritage. These homes feature restored interiors and spacious gardens well worth visiting. One of the most stunning\u2014though it’s hard to choose\u2014is An Hien Garden House<\/strong>, where the tour concludes with a delightful tea service in the garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAnd while it\u2019s not a historical monument per se, it nearly qualifies: the Azerai La Residence<\/strong> hotel is a destination in its own right. Located by the river, this colonial-inspired mansion in Art Deco style<\/strong>, built in the 1930s, has long been Hue\u2019s most sophisticated address\u2014and it still is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to eat in Hue<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nLike elsewhere in Vietnam, Hue\u2019s street food<\/strong> is known for its excellence. It also offers a great opportunity to connect with locals. For example, you can join them for breakfast at Hanh<\/strong>, where the menu features dishes like spring rolls<\/strong>. Another local favorite is banh beo<\/strong>, a rice cake topped with shrimp that\u2019s incredibly popular in Hue. You\u2019ll also find other classic Vietnamese dishes accompanied by a variety of tasty sauces\u2014including, of course, fish sauce.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAt Memoire Caf\u00e9<\/strong>, you\u2019ll find what is arguably the best traditional Vietnamese coffee<\/strong> in Hue, served alongside sweet (and savory) snacks, and best of all, with stunning views of the river<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>A brief history of Hoi An<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nA captivating mix of cultures flows through Hoi An<\/strong>, located in central Vietnam along the Thu Bon River<\/strong>. It\u2019s truly a journey back in time. Known as Faifo<\/strong> between the 15th and 18th centuries, Hoi An was once a thriving commercial hub. Chinese and Japanese merchants settled here for months at a time, driven south by the monsoon winds. Inevitably, both communities left their mark on the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHoi An\u2019s decline began in the late 19th century when the river connecting the city to the sea became too shallow for navigation due to sediment build-up. As trade dwindled, so did the city\u2019s prominence. Today, however, Hoi An stands proudly as one of Vietnam\u2019s most charming tourist destinations. Its architecture is a kaleidoscope of diverse influences, brought to life in over 800 buildings<\/strong>, including