Dotted with a unique heritage, alluring landscapes, aromatic and sensational cuisine, and an exotic and mystic air, Vietnam's highlights are limitless. From a thrilling motorbike ride to hiking the evergreen hills around Bac Ha, from its spicy noodle soups to its rice wine, and from its ancient craft industries to grand colonial mansions from the French era and the skybars of 21st-century glass-and-steel highrises, there is a large range of unmissable experiences that cater to every taste, every whim and, ultimately, every kind of traveller.
Food
Boasting subtle flavours and a vast diversity, Vietnam is a culinary superpower and sampling these glorious dishes is a treat to every traveller. Thanks to its position on the map, the north of Vietnam has benefitted from Chinese cuisine, which has influenced the soups of the north. Meanwhile, spices are king in southern cuisine, and herbs and complex techniques enrich the central coastline.
Another secret to Vietnam's top-class cuisine is that its ingredients are locally sourced and seasonal, therefore, they are all fresh and the result are heavenly dishes with complex textures. Vietnamese cuisine is so complex that dishes are expected to balance sour and sweet, crunchy and silky, fried and steamed, soup and salad. Therefore, this is a great country to indulge yourself in the local specialties.
Hoi An
Boasting historical lanes, beautiful temples and pagodas, this ancient port is Vietnam's most civilised and cosmopolitan town. Here you treat yourself to a banquet even if you are on a budget, wander along the riverside and bike the back roads. Whether you want a thrill or to chill, Hoi An won't disappoint.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Phong Nha-Ke Bang is one of Vietnam's most exciting parks, where you can hike through the rainforest and watch as the mountain rivers course through ravines.
But more adventures await underground where the most intrepid travellers will find Hang Son Doong, the world's largest cave. The prehistoric atmosphere is such that caving expert Howard Limbert stated, "Watch out for dinosaurs. That's what we called this place when we first discovered it." This is thrilling and unique experience you can't miss out on when you visit Vietnam.
Perhaps less unique but equally exciting is the opportunity to go zip lining and kayaking in Hang Toi. Another highlight is the out-of-this-world beautiful Paradise Cave.
Markets
Whether you are looking to shop till you drop, soak in the local culture or a precious combo, street markets are Vietnam beating heart. From the floating markets of the Mekong Delta to the tribal gatherings in highlands and the streets bursting with souvenirs in Hoi An, Vietnamese markets are a vibrant attraction, colourful display of local culture and a shopaholic's paradise. If you really like markets and you visit the north of Te country, you might want to check out the region around Ba Ha, where you will find a large number of interesting markets.
Halong Bay
Categorised as a World Heritage Wonder, Halong Bay is where karst limestone peaks meet shimmering seas. With more than 2,000 different islands to see, you need to book a cruise to see everything. One of the main activities here is to rent a kayak and paddle into dreamy lagoons. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of these touristic attractions, head to Lab Ha Bay, which, despite being less touristic, is equally stunning.
Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi
Located on opposite ends of the country, these two cities are usually either the first or last place s traveller sees. Surrounded by orbiting motorcycles, this buzzing cities are indulge yourself in a wealth of history, fun shopping. delicious food and an exciting nightlife. Whether you wander the the streets of the Old Quarter, score inexpensive souvenirs or explore the French Quarter, you'll never get bored in this buzzing cities.
Hue
History lovers, rejoice! There's a city in Vietnam where you can satisfy your inner culture-loving self and this is Hue. Over 150 years, from the 19th century all through the early 20th, Hue was the capital of the country and as such it is dotted with valuable national treasures such as the Hue Citadel, its royal residences and elegant temples, admirable walled defence and gateways. This city also housed some of the country's most striking pagodas and royal tombs.