Vietnam's Top 5 Cities

CITIES YOU MUST VISIT IN VIETNAM

From hustle and bustle to peaceful riverside retreats, Vietnam's cities have it all. If you are looking for the best cities to visit whilst in this beautiful country, have a read on for our top 5 picks here...or check out the best way to explore Vietnam with our 13 Day Vietnam Explorer tour?

1. HANOI

 

 

First up, we have one of the busiest cities in Vietnam, Hanoi! Full of hustle and bustle, Vietnam’s capital can at first seem a little overwhelming... A city that’s home to more motorbikes than people, Hanoi is a perfect introduction to a country that’s unique, if somewhat chaotic. Beyond the crazy traffic, there are a multitude of things to see and do in Hanoi. Here are some of our favourite activities to do in this wonderful place!

Learn about the city's ancient history by visiting Heritage House and the Vietnamese Women’s Museum in the city’s Old Quarter. Treat yourself to some well-earned R&R in one of the city’s many spas and wander around the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake before you hit up the night market – a welcome pedestrianised respite from the insane traffic!

2. HA LONG (BAY)

 

 

Next up, we're heading straight to Halong Bay- arguably the most iconic place in Asia! Known for its beautiful bright green sea and the infamous 1,600 limestone islands dotted aroud, Halong Bay is backpacker’s paradise. Create core memories cayaking in emerald green waters, visiting the most stunning beaches and enjoying a lunch at sea served to a jaw dropping backdrop! An absolute paradise if you ask us!

3. HOI AN

 

 

Famed for it’s Full Moon Lantern Festival, Hoi An brings a touch of elegance to Vietnam’s coastline. Cycling through Hanoi’s sleepy streets, you can easily feel as though you’ve been transported back in time to the colonial era. Hoi An’s riverside location makes it a wonderful place to be in when the full moon appears.

Spend your days attending cooking classes and exploring rice paddies. Cycle around on two wheels to visit ancient monuments such as the Japanese Covered Bridge. Head into town at night to catch sight of the world famous magical lantern festival and weave your way through beautifully lit streets until you reach Hoi An’s Ancient Town, inundated with street vendors and multicoloured paper lanterns! A must visit on our 13 Day Vietnam Explorer!

4. HUE

 

 

Often known as the Imperial City, Hue was Vietnam’s national capital from 1802 to 1945. As a result, the city is littered with intricate buildings from the colonial era. Most impressive of them all is the Citadel, or Royal Palace. The enchantedly-named Purple Forbidden City used to sit within the Citadel’s walls and protect the royal family from invasion. Due to the Vietnam war, large parts of the Citadel are now nothing more than rubble. It’s still worth a visit, though, as the structures that do remain are beautiful!

Once you’re done touring Hue’s ancient buildings, hop on a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River. Stop off at Thien Mu Pagoda and the Japanese Bridge for a little more culture.

5. HO CHI MINH CITY

 

 

Formally known as ‘Saigon,’ Ho Chi Minh is one of the most populous cities in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City played a key role in the Vietnam War and is full of landmarks such as the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Museum. Once you’re done crawling through tunnels from the imperial era, experience beautiful French architecture at the Central Post Office. Then, round off your visit by practising your bartering skills in Binh Tay Market!

If you love the sound of the top 5 cities in Vietnam, why not join us on our 13 day Vietnam Explorer tour? You'll have an amazing time 'pho sho'

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