The Complete Vietnam Travel Guide | The Best Vietnam Travel Guide (2023)

Vietnam has emerged as a top tourist destination in Southeast Asia in recent years, with an estimated 18 million international tourists in 2019. That number is expected to continue to rise -- and for many good reasons. The country is known for its eventful history, diverse cultures and unparalleled natural beauty.

An illustrated guide will come in handy if you plan to visit. This article has all the basic information so you don't have to spend a lot of time researching online and browsing through multiple websites. We have done a lot for you and are very proud of this comprehensive article as it will be an invaluable resource for anyone wishing to visit Vietnam.

Part I Tourist Visa

1.Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Vietnam offers visa waivers for tourists from 13 countries, namelyelectronic visionVisitors from 80 countries. Travelers can also apply for a visa on arrival online or in person at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

2.Visumbefreiungen

Vietnam offers 14-day visa-free for citizens13 countriesHold a valid ordinary passport. Please see the full list of visa-free countries below.

• Belarus,Danish, Finnish, french, german, italian, japanese,Norway,Russia, South Korea, Spain,Sweden,and Great Britain.

*A minimum break of 30 days is required between two visa-free visits. It must contain a printout of the onward ticket.

Exception description:

The above exceptions apply until December 31, 2025.

Expert advice:Citizens of various countries who go directly to Phu Quoc Island can visit without a visa for 30 days. You just need to show your departure ticket when you arrive in Vietnam.

3. Electronic visa requirements

E-Visa is one of several visas provided by the Vietnam Immigration Department for foreigners entering Vietnam. This isValid for 30 daysIsingle entryonly. that costs money$25For card payments and requiresthree working daysprogram.

You can enter Vietnam with an e-visa at any of the country's eight international airports, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, as well as seven seaports and 14 land crossings.

Citizens will be able to use e-Visa from March 15, 202280 countries. See the full list below:

Vietnam e-visa requirements:

• Passport valid for six (6) months
• A JPG photo of the full passport information page
• Passport photo in .jpg format (4 x 6 cm, white background, without glasses)
• Valid international credit or debit card
• Email address for support purposes
• Temporary address in Vietnam
• Your entry and exit dates and entry/exit points/airports

How to apply Vietnam e-Visa:

step 1: Prepare necessary materials

step 2: OpenOfficial websiteApply for Vietnam e-Visa

Step 3:Upload your .jpg image (passport information page and passport photo) and complete the required fields in the form.

Step 4:Pay the $25 e-Visa fee using any payment method provided. Copy the given documentation code.

Step 5:You will receive an email within three working days regarding your eVisa application. Use the document code to find your eVisa online. For security reasons, please double download and print the e-Visa.

professionalsuggestion:Tourists with e-Visa do not need to queue at the visa arrival counter. You can go directly to the immigration counter at the point of entry.

3.Vietnam visa on arrival

if you wantmultiple entryVisitor accommodation will lastmore than 30 days, you may need to apply for a visa on arrival. You need the following:

• 4×6 passport photo (white background, without glasses)
• fully realizedVisumantrags Official
• Passport or alternative identity document valid within six (6) months from the date of your intended visit to Vietnam
• Payment ($25 per person for single entry or $50 per person for multiple entries) visa fee
• Approval letter from Vietnamese embassy or consulate (if you pick up your visa at the airport)

If you are near a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, you can hand over the application form, passport, photo and visa fee to the other party.

If you don’t have time or the Vietnamese embassy is far away from your location, there are reputable online services that can issue you a valid permit for a fee. On arrival, take this letter to the visa-on-arrival counter at the airport, along with your visa application form and other documents.

Here you can find the latest entry requirements, visa procedureshere

Part II Best Time to Visit

There really is no right or wrong time to visit Vietnam as most of the year has varying degrees of sunshine and rain. Vietnam has over 2,000 miles of coastline and three distinct weather systems. You can imagine that the country has three different tourist destinations in terms of weather.

In Hanoi and the north, May to October is hot and humid, and November to April is cold and dry. In central Vietnam, the weather is hot and dry between January and August, with temperatures can soar into the mid 30s. September, October and November usually have heavy rains. The southern region is generally hot and dry from November to April, warm and humid from May to October, and rainy in June, July and August.

1.Weather by Region and Season

Far North (Sapa, Bac Ha, Mu Cang Chai and Ha Giang)

The climate in Sabah and the northwestern region is divided into two seasons: the rainy season lasts from April to September, while the dry season lasts from October to the end of March. In December and January, it can get very cold, especially at night.

The best time to travel to the Northeast is the dry season, which lasts from October to April. December and January can get very cold. Avoid traveling during the rainy season from May to September.

Hokuetsu (Kawachi,halong bay, Cuc Phuong, Mai Chau 和 Ninh Binh)

Northern Vietnam, including the capital Hanoi, has summer and winter. The latter is mainly fresh but mostly dry and lasts from November to April. The coldest months are January, February and March with average temperatures of 17-22°C.

Summer lasts from May to October. The weather is hot and muggy, and this is when the region receives the most rainfall. July to September are usually the rainiest months and bad weather can hinder cruisinghalong bay.

**Zentralvietnam (**Da Nang, Da Lat, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang and Quy Nhon)

The weather in Da Nang, Hoi An and Hue lasts from mid-January to late August, and the weather is hot and dry. Temperatures typically rise to around 30°C during this time. Precipitation increases in winter, with the wettest months being October and November.

Hue is generally cooler than Hoi An, especially at the beginning of the year. The coastal city of Quy Nhon has similar weather patterns to Hoi An, but the dry season lasts longer due to its proximity to the southern system.

Da Lat in the central highlands is humid from June to October. November to May is drier and December to January is colder.

The coastal city of Nha Trang in south-central Vietnam has a long dry season that runs from January to September. The rainy season lasts from October to December, with October and November receiving 50% of the annual precipitation.

South Vietnam(Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc and Con Dao, Mekong Delta, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne, Ho Tram and Long Hai)

Temperatures remain constant throughout the year, usually between 25 and 35ºC. The climate is divided into two seasons: wet and dry. The latter starts in November and ends in April or early May. From late February to May, the weather is slightly warmer and wetter. The wet season lasts from May to November, with most precipitation occurring in June, July, and August.

In the far south, Phu Quoc and Con Dao often have sunny days, so these two islands can be enjoyed all year round.

the third part. Holidays and Special Events

1.Tet Nguyen Dan - Vietnamese New Year

Tet is the most important festival in Vietnamese culture. It is also known as Vietnamese New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year or Tet holiday. It is an abbreviated form of Tết Nguyễn Đán, a Sino-Vietnamese term meaning "the festival of the first morning of the first day".

Tết marks the arrival of spring and usually occurs from late January to mid-February. Busy cities are disappearing, almost turning into ghost towns, as many return home to celebrate the holiday with friends and family.

Tet is a great time to visit Vietnam, but it is also the busiest time of year to stay. Celebrations are sure to have a big impact on your travel plans. Markets and shopping centers are getting busier and hotels are full. Popular seaside resorts and tourist sites such as Hoi An have seen more tourists than usual.

It will be beneficial if you decide to travel to Vietnam during Tet. Now is a great time to learn about Vietnamese culture and traditions. Public stages are being erected across the country, offering free performances, music and entertainment. Flowers are blooming in the streets and alleys, and people are filled with a festive atmosphere. Locals become more open-minded as they focus on bringing good luck to their families and businesses for the coming year. They believe that what happens on the first day of the new year will determine the rest of the year.

However, it can get very loud. Fireworks are set off all over the city, and people make noise by beating gongs, bells, and setting off firecrackers to drive away evil spirits that bring bad luck. The festivities usually last three days, but may last more than a week in some areas. The first day of Chinese New Year is usually spent with family, the second day is spent hanging out with friends, and the third day is worshiping teachers and visiting temples.

Traveling during this holiday season can be difficult. Buses and trains sell out well in advance, so travel planning cannot wait until the last minute. Museums, shopping districts and other commercial establishments may be closed for up to five days, and sightseeing plans may be affected. Make sure you have something to keep you busy.

Expert advice:Plan ahead, as hotels and domestic flights can be fully booked. Note that guide and transportation fees often increase during this period due to high demand.

Vietnamese Tet date:

• 2020.:24-28 January
• 2021.:11-15 February
• 2022.:February 1-4

2. Hue Festival

This is a biannual festival in Hue where you can enjoy a variety of games, cultural events and performances throughout the week. It was established in 2000 to preserve the traditional customs of the Nguyen Dynasty. Since then, it has celebrated every two years in April, May and June. During this period, special exhibitions such as Hue Poetry Festival, Ao Dai fashion show, and drumming dialogues will be held, as well as sports activities such as boating, kite flying, and chess playing. There are also film screenings, street performances and art exhibitions.

In addition, many ancient landscapes of the Nguyen Dynasty have been reproduced, giving tourists a glimpse of the feudal era of Vietnam. Typical activities include Xa Tac Sacrificial Ceremony, Nam Giao Sacrificial Ceremony and Hue Royal Exquisite Music, recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2003.

The 3rd Mid-Autumn Festival

This magical festival is celebrated on the 14th and 15th of the lunar month. Also known as Harvest Festival, Full Moon Festival and Children's Day, it features a range of events such as lion dances, children carrying paper lanterns and food stalls selling sticky rice, mooncakes, fruits and sweets. On the night of the festival, families build an altar to their ancestors, where they make sacrifices in honor of the full moon.

The best place to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival is in the UNESCO-listed Hoi An town, where locals take the celebration to new heights. There are many lantern parades, street performances and art exhibitions. Children are encouraged to participate in drawing, drawing and composition competitions, while visitors enjoy stunning views of the Japanese Covered Bridge and colorful paper lanterns on the banks of the Thu Bồn River.

Part Four Getting Around in Vietnam

Vietnam is a intricate country that winds 1,025 miles along the east coast of Indochina. That's probably why we're so fascinated by imaginative forms of transportation. Rickshaws from pedal bicycles are calledcycleFrom motorbike taxi rides to exhilarating rides, there are more forms of transportation here than anywhere else in the world.

If you want to cross the country with a side trip to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you have a variety of transportation options. The big question is which one to choose? Well, the answer depends on your time, budget and sense of adventure.

If you're short on time, it makes sense to travel north to south by plane. If you want to visit more distant tourist destinations, such as the Northern Highlands, it's best to take a taxi or train. If you're on a tight budget but have the time and patience, the transit system can do the trick. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you might just have to hop on a motorcycle!

1.vietnam by plane

Vietnam has more than 20 airports. That's a pretty big number for a relatively small country. This is so because most of the airfields built during the Vietnam War have been converted into peacetime airfields.

To date, most international flights land in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with daily arrivals from Asian urban centers. Bangkok, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Singapore and Seoul have the most flights. Some international flights also go to Da Nang and Nha Trang.

Major international airlines include Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Jetstar Airways and AirAsia.

Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines, VietJetAir, Jetstar and VASCO operate domestic flights.

Many tourists explore Vietnam by traveling north from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi and flying the rest of the way. It only takes two hours, but the journey can take days, weeks or even months if you use other modes of transport.

Other major cities are also well connected. Whether you need flights from Can Tho, Da Nang, Da Lat, Haiphong, Hue, Phu Quoc or Nha Trang, flying to these areas from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City is easy thanks to the wide range of domestic flights.

2.go to vietnam by train

Vietnam has 1,600 miles of railways, and one of the main lines, called the Reunification Express, gives you a comprehensive overview of the country's incredible beauty, people and history. This railway line runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. It has multiple stations including popular tourist destinations such as Da Nang, Hue and Nha Trang. Remember, the entire trip takes over 40 hours! Also, trains are usually more expensive than buses, but the convenience is worth it.

Book overnight trains so you can spend most of your journey in an air-conditioned sleeping berth. There are several classes on Vietnamese trains, but try to choose the highest class you can afford. For overnight stays, there are firm and soft bed sections with six and four beds respectively.

Vietnam is currently upgrading its train system, but today you can rest assured that traveling by train is one of the best experiences you can have in this Southeast Asian country. Be sure to buy tickets in advance, especially in high season.

Another option is to use the services of private companies that connect more luxurious carriages to standard trains. Many tourists prefer this when traveling from Hanoi to Lao Cai in the northern highlands. Several companies, including Fancipan, Chapa Express Train, Sapaly Train and Victoria Hotels, operate luxury private carriages called the Victoria Express. While Victoria cars are considered the most convenient on this route, travelers do not need to book a Victoria Express as they used to to travel on the Victoria Express.

3. Vietnam by bus

If you have a lot of time and comfort is not your priority, you can explore Vietnam by bus. There are bus services in most cities, but be aware that driving the country's rough roads may not be for everyone. For example, the 172-mile bus ride from the Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 30 minutes.8 sets.

Private vehicles known as open top buses are the best bus option for tourists and travelers on a budget. Inexpensive and covers all popular destinations. You can buy an "open" ticket so that you can ask the driver to stop when you see something interesting on the Hanoi-Saigon route. However, some people prefer to keep their options flexible by purchasing individual tickets as they go.

Open-top tourist buses are better than national buses because they are air-conditioned and run on a fixed schedule with a limited number of passengers. State buses can do the exact opposite, so be careful. Do research on private bus companies before buying tickets, and be sure to bring snacks and drinks with you on your trip.

4. Vietnam by boat

Ferry services take you to larger islands. one thing you can't miss is a cruisehalong bay– The best cruise destinations in Vietnam. Dozens of private boats sail the Emerald Sea, taking tourists to admire the majestic karst islands. You can choose from day trips and overnight trips aboard a variety of vessels, from the humblest to the most luxurious.

The charming city of Hue also offers boat tours, with local families trying to earn a few bucks from passers-by. Offers lunch, fishing and diving trips from Hoi An, Phu Quoc and Nha Trang to nearby islands.

You can also take a Mekong Delta River Tour, a private company river cruise. For visitors to Vietnam and Cambodia, the speedboat from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc is a popular route connecting the two neighboring countries.

5. Motorbike or scooter Vietnam

For the more adventurous, motorcycles or scooters can be rented in most major cities. You can also rent motorbikes, especially in Da Lat. Check your bike carefully before setting off, and remember that wearing a helmet is a legal requirement in Vietnam.

If you are not the only one who loves roller skating, you can choose Easy Rider Adventures in Da Lat. This is a very popular tour company, so beware of copycats. They offer excursions, custom tours and multi-day tours.

6.Vietnam local transportation

You have three options: taxi, bike or xe om. Metered taxis are cheap in international comparisons. However, suspicious taxis with unauthorized taximeters are operating on the streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Hire taxis only from reputable companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun.

Thecyclo is a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. They first appeared during the French colonial period after a failed attempt to introduce rickshaws. This form of transportation is dying, but still exists in some important cities. Cyclists usually live near markets and large hotels. Don't forget to negotiate airfare prices before each departure.

Thexe no motorbike taxis. Literally translated, xeme means engine and omme means hug, so now you have an idea of ​​how it works. As long as you travel light and don't have too much luggage, it's possible to get around in Omis. There are many Xeomdrivers prowling bus stops, hotels and street corners. Like a tricycle, you negotiate the fare before boarding.

Part 5 The best places to stay in Vietnam

When it comes to accommodation in Vietnam, affordable luxury is key. You can enjoy sheer comfort and convenience in Indochina for the price you would normally pay for a pack of biscuits in major US and European cities. For just over $100, you'll be treated like royalty! If you plan to visit, choose a deluxe room and make sure you get your money's worth.

Most of the big hotel chains are located in the countryside. In fact, the average hotel rating is between 4 and 4.5 stars. thispickaxeISheratonThey have hotels in Hanoi and Saigon. it's thereIntercontinental HotelIhiltonin Hanoi. it's therePark Hyatt HotelIHotel Nikkoin Saigon. Accorhas, France's leading global hotel groupMercure HotelISofitelHotels in Vietnam. There are also some excellent individual companies such ascaraveli rex sai idaewooin Hanoi.

Find out more in our mini eBook to help you choose the hotel that best suits your needs and preferences...

Download the full list of 51 luxury guest houses in Vietnam

Part VI. Most popular tourist destinations/attractions in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to breathtaking natural beauty, with some of the best islands and beaches in Southeast Asia. It is a culturally complex country whose cuisine is arguably the most luxurious in the region**. **Over 20 years have passed since the country was formally unified, during which time it has done an excellent job of strengthening and healing its wounds. Today, this proud country is a popular tourist destination. You can't go wrong - it's exotic and alluring!

1.Han people

Hanoi is rich in history and culture, especially in the Old Quarter, the city's tourist hub with bustling markets, a vibrant nightlife and some of the best local food in the country. If you're planning to go, here are some other must-see destinations:

• Thang Long Imperial City
• water puppet show
• Ho Chi Minh Tomb
• Jezero Hoaning the Sword and Ngoc Son
• Dong-Xuan-Markt
• Bawi National Park
• Hanoi Opera House
• Temple of Literature

2. Sabah

This quaint city combines culture with breathtaking natural beauty. It is home to numerous nationalities and has developed rapidly in recent years. Once a quiet mountain town, it is now a tourist attraction. Try to find a homestay in one of the villages, or if time permits, climb Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina. Check out this list of fun things to do in Sabah to spice up your itinerary...

• Hike and visit amazing tribal villages
• Take a leisurely stroll around Sa Pa Lake
• Admire the majestic and romantic Falls of Love
• Take the cable car up to the magnificent Fansipan
• Marvel at the verdant rice terraces of Muong Hoa Valley
• Enjoy stunning views of Thac Bac Waterfall (or Silver Waterfall)
• Enjoy a traditional weaving experience at Cat Cat or Ta Phin Village

• Experience the hustle and bustle of the Sabah market
• Take photos among the colorful scenes at Ham Rong Gardens
• Explore history and culture at the Sa Pa Museum
• Get off the beaten track and walk among authentic villages along the Muong Hoa Valley
• Stay in a private accommodation in the remote villages of Ban Ho or Thanh Phu
• Go green by staying at one of the ecolodges near Sa Pa: Topas Ecolodge, Utopia Lodge
• Visit one of the colorful ethnic markets near Sa Pa: Coc Ly Market on Tuesday, Can Cau Market on Saturday, Muong Khuong Market on Sunday and Bac Ha Market

3. Ha Long Bay

No trip to the northern regions of Vietnam is complete without a visithalong bayDeclared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, the towering limestone islands of Halong Bay are an ethereal beauty. So it's no surprise that it is a major tourist center in North Vietnam.

overallhalong bayOr sometimes called Tokyo Bay, with an area of ​​about 1,500 square kilometers. Experts say it took about 500 million years to formhalong bayOn islands and islets built from karst limestone in 1969. Humans have inhabited this area since time immemorial, but they have not spoiled the natural wonders. The majestic views certainly add unique cultural value to this unique place.

things to dohalong bay

• Sign up for a day trip, or better yet, spend the night on a traditional wooden boat
• Kayaking along karst formations, exploring fishing villages and hidden lagoons
• Wake up early to take a Tai Chi class on the sun deck and watch the sunrise
• Cave tour at Hang Sung Sot Cave
• go squid fishing at night
• Bird's-eye view from seaplane
• Head to Cat Ba Island and explore one of the caves (Hospital Cave, Trung Trang Cave)
• Bike to Yuehai Village
• Enjoy the serene surroundings of Lan Ha Bay
• Visit the Maiden's Cave on Bon Hon Island
• Head to Monkey Island and stay at the remote Monkey Island Resort

4. Hoi An

Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved ancient city criss-crossed by canals. The city is a melting pot of history, and this is clearly reflected in its architecture, which mixes different eras and styles – from French colonial buildings to Vietnamese tubular houses, from Chinese wooden temples to The Japanese Covered Bridge of the Legendary Pagoda.

Zeng Tuen in Hoi An

• Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Hoi An Ancient Town
• Snap amazing photos on the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge
• Dine at a popular restaurant
• Soak up the sun at An Bang Beach
• Get on your bike and explore country lanes and nature
• Improve your haggling skills at Hoi An Central Market
• Visit the Museum of Commercial Ceramics

(Video) TOP 10 places in Vietnam 2022| How to travel Vietnam | Travel Guide Vietnam

• Enjoy a day of diving and snorkeling at Lao Cham Island
• Treat yourself to a special cup of tea at the Reaching Out Tea House
• Take a Cooking Class at Sabirama Cooking School
• Stroll through the city of lights
• Sit down and learn how to make silk lanterns at a local home
• Enjoy a cup of coffee or cold drink at Faifo Cafe with panoramic rooftop views
• What's Next: Visit My Son Sanctuary for half a day; Spend a full day at Ba Na Hills to explore the popular Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills Entertainment Center with a round-trip cable car ride. Hiking in Kep National Park

5. Nha Trang

Located on the south-central coast of Vietnam, Nha Trang is a paradise for tourists. This resort offers miles and miles of white sandy beaches against a backdrop of green hills, many beautiful islands, many historical attractions and long hours of pure relaxation. Plus, there are many other amazing activities that will leave you asking for more!

If you're wondering what to do in Nha Trang, check out the list below.

• Enjoy exciting water sports, diving and snorkeling
• Embark on a sailing trip to the neighboring islands
• Head to the paradise beaches of Doc Let or Bai Dai
• Visit the Ponagar Cham Temple and the 19th-century Long Son Pagoda
• Visit the Vinpearl Cable Car, the longest overseas cable car in the world
• Visit Vinpearl Amusement Park for a full day of unparalleled children's entertainment
• Visit Yang Bay Eco Park, a stunning natural park just a short walk from the city center
• Relax in Thap Ba's hot springs and mud baths
• Explore the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam
• If you like photography, you must go to Do Dien Khanh Gallery
• Explore nature by bike or boat
• cai river rafting

6. Da Lat

Known as the "City of Spring" for its mild climate, Da Lat is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the central highlands of southern Vietnam. Nicknamed "Little Paris" by many, this hilltop town even has a miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower in its center! It is also a popular place for local weddings and honeymoons, so it is also known as the "City of Flowers" and "City of Lovers".

Da Lat is famous for its variety of flowers, fruits and vegetables in its agricultural area. It is famous for its pristine natural scenery, beautiful countryside and ethnic minority villages. There's sure to be something for everyone, but here are a few to try when visiting this remarkable place...  

• Explore the Summer Palace of Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam
• Visit Da Lat Railway, one of the oldest railway stations in Vietnam, famous for its Art Deco architecture
• Admire the bohemian and fairytale-like architecture of Hằng Ng Guesthouse, also known as "The Crazy Asylum".
• Take the cable car to Truc Lam Pagoda, a complex of traditional Asian buildings
• Meet over 100 monks and nuns at Truc Lam Pagoda (Zen Monastery)
• Enjoy stunning views from the top of Lang Biang hill
• Spend a few hours visiting Pungul Waterfall

• Stroll through the magnificent flower displays of Dalat Gardens
• Drive out of town to visit Lang Biang Mountain and Elephant Waterfall
• Visit the K'Ho ethnic minority village, learn about local life and Vietnamese coffee, and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee by the farmer/local owner
• Learn how weasel and coffee go together at Trai Ham Da Lat Weasel Coffee
• Find cute gifts and specials at the lowest prices at Da Lat Night Market
• Hike peaceful trails through pine forests, coffee and persimmon plantations to reach Pinhat Mountain and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Xuanlin Lake.
• Hit the road on two wheels to Lac Lake

7. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon, is known for its French colonial landmarks, including the 19th-century Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral, built entirely from materials imported from France. From the cheapest guesthouses to world-class hotels, from the tastiest street stalls to the trendiest restaurants, from bustling markets to the best boutiques, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant business and cultural hub.

Without further ado, here are the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Placed through Cu Chi Tunnels
• Enjoy the taste of a bowl of pho
• Visit the city's oldest temple, the Giac Lam Pagoda
• Enjoy a romantic dinner on a Bonsai River Cruise
• Explore the War Remnants Museum
• Visit the Reunification Palace
• Visit the headquarters designed by Gustave Eiffel, famous for the Eiffel Tower
• Have a cup of coffee at Tao Dan Park
• Have a drink and enjoy the nightlife at Pham Ngu Lao Street or Bi Wen Street

• Visit a history museum with artifacts from 4,000 years ago
• Pomolite se u katedrali Notre Dame
• Admire the splendor of Kodaiji Temple
• Climb the Bitexco Financial Tower
• Take some great photos at Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda
• Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most beautiful temples in the city
• Visit Ho Chi Minh City Museum
• Explore the Museum of Fine Arts
• Admire the caramel-colored churches of Qitan
• Indulge in shopping and dining at Ben Thanh Market
• Shop like a local at Binh Tay Market
• Visit an organic farm on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City to learn about the sources of herbs and ingredients for a cooking class.

8. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. This is a water world with a huge labyrinth of rivers, canals, swamps and floating markets. You'll also find beautiful Khmer pagodas, Buddhist temples and communities surrounded by rice fields. Boats are the main form of transportation, and tours of the region usually start in Ho Chi Minh City or the bustling town of Can Tho in the center of the delta.

• Embark on a sampan cruise at My Tho. No matter where the cruise starts, the cruise will take you to Long Island (Con Tan Long), Turtle Island (Con Quy) and Unicorn Island (Con Thoi Son).
• Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda and Bat Pagoda
• Visit the Cai Be orchard, the largest of its kind in the Delta
• Visit the floating market and experience everyday life on the Mekong
• Hop on your bike and ride the quiet country roads deep in the Mekong Delta
• Try a bowl of noodle soup at Cai Rang Floating Market
• Come to Tra Su Cajuput Forest to see what the wetlands look like
• Visit the traditional silk making process at Tanzhou Silk Village
• Bird watching at Tram Chim National Park
• Climb Mount Sam and enjoy stunning views from the top, with Cambodia on one side and Vietnam on the other
• Be brave at Dongtan Snake Farm, nicknamed the "Kingdom of Snakes".
• Visit Father and Son Island off the coast of Hon Phu Tu - Cave Pagoda Road

Part VII. What to eat in Vietnam

Vietnam may have a diverse landscape, but its overall cuisine is characterized by a balance of flavour, acidity, sweetness and fishiness. As with other Asian cuisines, it's all about finding the perfect match: sweet and savory, fresh and fermented. Another remarkable thing about Vietnamese cuisine is that it is never complicated. In fact, the most popular dishes are as easy to prepare and cook on the go as in a fine dining restaurant. It's the simplicity, fresh ingredients and subtle regional differences that set the food apart and keep visitors coming back for more.

In the north, the food here has a strong Chinese flavor, with noodle soups and stir-fried vegetables. The further south you go, the more flavors merge with neighboring Cambodia and Thailand. In the south, the tropical climate encourages more rice fields, herb gardens, coconut groves and jackfruit trees. Food is often sweeter: savory dishes have more palm sugar, and pho soup is sweeter.

It's hard to talk about Vietnamese food without mentioning the French influence. Clearly, colonization had a lasting impact on the entire country, land, people and tastes. Perhaps the most distinctive is banh mi, which refers to the French baguette used to make this delicious Vietnamese sandwich. However, locals have taken the sandwich to a whole new level with their choice of fish pie, sardines, roast pork, cilantro, chilli-pickled carrots and other toppings.