Journey to the Landscapes & Cuisines of Vietnam

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Advisor - Anderson Orlandi
Curated By

Anderson Orlandi

  • Vietnam

  • Active Travel

  • Arts & Culture

  • Food & Wine

  • History

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

A view of a large stone hand with a bridge built onto it and people walking across. There are also two sets of tall trees and a forest in the surrounding areas.
Curator’s statement

Welcome to Vietnam! Through this guide, we will embark on a journey through this beautiful and diverse country. I have been to Vietnam several times and each was such a unique experience. It is located in Southeast Asia and is known for its bustling cities, stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. One of the must-visit destinations here is the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. It's bursting with history, from its ancient temples to its French colonial architecture. It's also home to some of the most delicious street food in the world. Another beautiful city is Da Nang, known for its stunning beaches, including the famous My Khe Beach, which has been coined as "one of the most attractive beaches on the planet" by Forbes Magazine. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, like hiking in the nearby Marble Mountains or taking a boat trip down the Han River. Another top destination is Ho Chi Minh City. This bustling metropolis is a blend of old and new, with modern skyscrapers towering over traditional markets and temples. For nature lovers, Halong Bay is a must-see. This breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site features thousands of limestone islands and is best explored by boat. No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying the famous Vietnamese coffee, or pho, a traditional noodle soup. And don't forget to immerse yourself in the local culture by trying out some traditional activities like water puppetry or visiting a floating market.

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Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

A vibrant street view of Vietnam with people riding bicycles with carriages and orange umbrellas, followed by various shops lining the road.

On day one, you'll arrive in the city and settle into your hotel LandMark 81 in the bustling district. We took a walking tour to discover some of the must-see landmarks, including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum, giving you a glimpse into Vietnam's complex history.

Day 2: Visit the Famous Ben Thanh Market

A sunset view of a city skyline in Ho Chi Minh with a still body of water and bushes in the forefront.

The next day, you'll wake up bright and early to visit the famous Ben Thanh Market, an incredible maze of stalls selling everything from local produce to souvenirs. After some bargaining and delicious street food for lunch, you'll head to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War.

End your day with a relaxing sunset cruise on the Mekong River, sipping on a refreshing Vietnamese coffee while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Day 3: Visit Da Nang

A beautiful view of a narrow swimming pool surrounded by green shrub, palm trees and a body of water in the distance.

Travel to Da Nang by taking a quick one-hour and 30-minute flight from Ho Minh city to Da Nang. The best airline to travel with in Vietnam is Vietnam Airlines. First stop at the famous Marble Mountains. This cluster of five marble and limestone hills has a rich history and mesmerizing views. You can also visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam. At the end of the day, you can relax on the beach and watch the sunset. The beach is known for being well-secured and clean.

Day 4: Head Up to Ba Na Hills

An aerial view of lush and green mountain ranges under the thick clouds.

Treat yourself to an amazing breakfast and get ready for a day full of adventure before heading to Ba Na Hills. Take a cable car ride up to the French village and explore the Golden Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel surrounded by lush greenery. All you need is three to four hours and early access with tours or private cars. On the way back, be sure to try the best street food, MOC, a fresh seafood.

Day 5: Travel to My Khe Beach

A view of boats sailing upon turquoise blue water surrounded by lush green cliffs.

Conclude your three days in Da Nang and take a break from city life by heading to My Khe Beach. This beautiful stretch of sand and crystal-clear water is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. You can also visit the Son Tra Peninsula, home to the famous Lady Buddha statue.

Upon the end of your journey here, continue to explore the amazing country of Vietnam.

Day 6: Begin a Two-Day Journey to Hanoi

A beautiful sunset view of a large temple surrounded by lush trees, in particular one large palm tree and a metal fence.

It's time to visit the beautiful city of Hanoi, Vietnam. This city is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Start at the Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular tourist spot where you can take a stroll and admire the scenic views. Next, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, dedicated to the first president of Vietnam. The grand architecture and tranquil surroundings make it a must-visit destination.

Later, explore the bustling Old Quarter, filled with narrow streets, traditional markets and charming cafés. Here, you can also try some local street food and experience the authentic flavors of Hanoi. In the evening, witness the famous Water Puppet Show, a unique cultural performance that dates back to the 11th century.

Day 7-8: End Your Trip Sight-Seeing

A view of a farm with a person carrying two buckets spraying water on the vibrant green crops.

On your final days in Vietnam, head to the Temple of Literature, a well-preserved Confucian temple that was once Vietnam's first national university. Then, visit the breathtaking Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the country's ancient history. You can also check out Ha Long Bay in the Gulf of Tonkin (one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the world) by taking a half-day cruise. It's so relaxing - I highly recommend one to two nights. Sit back and relax on board the luxurious ship as you embark on a journey through the picturesque limestone islands, grottos and caves.

The cruise offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, swimming and squid fishing. Or, simply soak up the stunning views while savoring delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture by taking daily tai-chi classes, traditional cooking demonstrations or visiting the local fishing villages. There's something for everyone!

Advisor - Anderson Orlandi

Travel Advisor

Anderson Orlandi

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Stephanie Thompson’s guide, Family-Friendly Trip to Vietnam. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Vietnam.