Explore Top Places, A Perfect 2-Week Itinerary & Must-Know Travel Tips
Vietnam is a country that blends natural wonders, bustling cities, rich history, and mouthwatering food. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, this Southeast Asian gem deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re backpacking solo or planning a couple’s getaway, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip with must-see destinations, a 2-week sample itinerary, and insider tips to make the most of your Vietnam adventure.
📍 Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
1. Hanoi – Vietnam’s Timeless Capital
Start your journey in Hanoi, where colonial charm meets buzzing street life. Explore the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy traditional egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake.
2. Ha Long Bay – UNESCO Natural Wonder
Cruise through thousands of limestone karsts and emerald waters. You can book an overnight junk boat cruise or a full-day island-hopping tour.
3. Ninh Binh – The Inland Ha Long Bay
Often overlooked, Ninh Binh’s landscapes are just as dramatic. Don’t miss a boat ride through Tam Coc and a hike up Hang Mua for panoramic views.
4. Sapa – Rice Terraces & Ethnic Villages
Located in northern Vietnam, Sapa offers stunning trekking routes, terraced rice fields, and local homestays with hill tribes like the Hmong and Dao.
5. Phong Nha – Cave Paradise
Home to the world’s largest cave, Son Doong, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a haven for adventurers. Explore dark caves by kayak or go ziplining.
6. Hue – Vietnam’s Imperial Capital
Rich in royal history, Hue boasts the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, ancient pagodas, and tombs of emperors along the Perfume River.
7. Hoi An – The Lantern-Lit Town
A dreamy stop famous for tailor shops, yellow-walled alleyways, and riverside dining. Visit during a full moon to experience the magical Lantern Festival.
8. Da Nang – Beaches & Bridges
Da Nang offers sandy beaches, the famous Golden Hands Bridge (Ba Na Hills), and modern vibes. It’s also a great midpoint between Hoi An and Hue.
9. Nha Trang – Coastal City with Coral Reefs
If you love beaches and diving, Nha Trang is the place. Relax at luxury resorts, soak in mud baths, or snorkel in the nearby islands.
10. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Southern Hub
Vietnam’s largest city is a whirlwind of history and modernity. Don’t miss the Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, and vibrant Ben Thanh Market.
🗺️ 2-Week Vietnam Itinerary (North to South)
Day 1-2: Hanoi
- Explore the Old Quarter
- Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Temple of Literature
- Enjoy traditional Bun Cha & Egg Coffee
Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay
- Take a 2D/1N cruise through the bay
- Kayak, swim, and enjoy sunset dinners on deck
Day 5-6: Ninh Binh
- Tam Coc boat ride
- Hike Hang Mua viewpoint
- Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
Day 7-9: Hue & Hoi An (via Da Nang)
- Fly to Da Nang, drive to Hue
- Tour Imperial City & Tombs
- Arrive in Hoi An, shop, and enjoy lantern nights
Day 10-11: Da Nang
- Visit Ba Na Hills (Golden Bridge)
- Relax on My Khe Beach
Day 12-13: Ho Chi Minh City
- Explore Saigon’s museums & markets
- Take a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta
Day 14: Departure
Fly out from Ho Chi Minh City with unforgettable memories!
✈️ Vietnam Travel Tips (Don’t Miss These!)
1. Visa & Entry
Vietnam offers visa-free access to many nationalities for 15–45 days. E-visas are easy to apply for online.
2. Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. Use cash for local markets and small towns; cards are accepted in cities.
3. SIM Cards & Wi-Fi
Buy a local SIM card (Viettel, Mobifone) at the airport for affordable data. Wi-Fi is widely available.
4. Best Time to Visit
- North Vietnam: March to May or Sept to Nov (cooler weather)
- Central Vietnam: Feb to Aug (dry season)
- South Vietnam: Dec to April (dry and sunny)
5. Transport
Domestic flights are cheap and save time. Use Grab for city travel, and sleeper buses or trains for intercity budget options.
6. Dress Modestly at Temples
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
7. Learn Basic Phrases
Even a few Vietnamese words like “Xin chào” (Hello) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) go a long way.
🧳 What to Pack for Vietnam
- Breathable clothing for humid weather
- Good walking shoes or sandals
- Travel adapter (220V, type A, C, or F)
- Reusable water bottle (filtered options available)
- Rain jacket (especially during monsoon season)
🥢 Must-Try Vietnamese Foods
- Pho (Beef noodle soup)
- Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich)
- Bun Cha (Grilled pork with noodles)
- Goi Cuon (Fresh spring rolls)
- Egg Coffee (Yes, it’s amazing!)