Looking for adventure, spectacular landscapes, and unforgettable encounters? Vietnam is a dream destination for all travelers seeking authenticity, nature, and a change of scenery. Whether you are passionate about culture, history, gastronomy, or relaxation, you will surely find your happiness among our many travel programs to Vietnam. Here are 10 great reasons to pack your bags and discover this fascinating country.

Vietnam, a rapidly growing destination: The country welcomed over 17 million international visitors in 2024, marking a spectacular post-Covid growth, mainly from Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The tourism offer is increasingly focused on sustainable, green, and experiential tourism aimed at well-being and families.

1. Explore the legendary Halong Bay

It's impossible to imagine a trip to Vietnam without mentioning the mythical Halong Bay, a natural treasure listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sailing among the karst islets covered with vegetation aboard a traditional junk boat is an unforgettable experience.

To fully enjoy the bay, favor the period from October to April, which is cooler and drier. Cruises range from luxury cabins with spa and pool to more intimate junks for a peaceful adventure. Besides Halong Bay, itineraries often explore Lan Ha Bay and the monumental caves. Remember to choose a responsible cruise that respects the site's exceptional ecosystem.

For an even more immersive experience in the southern landscapes, discover our program South Vietnam, from the Mekong to Phu Quoc, combining cruise, discovery, and relaxation.

2. Wander through Northern Vietnam’s rice terraces

Northern Vietnam is a spectacular region where towering mountains, terraced rice fields, and ethnic villages follow one another. In Sapa, Ha Giang, or the Mai Chau valley, every trail offers a dive into preserved nature and moving encounters with local minorities.

The ideal period to admire the rice fields varies depending on the season:

• March to May: planting season, fields shimmer with water;
• Late April to early June: sublime reflections, vibrant green landscapes;
• September to mid-October: harvest, incredible golden hues.

These regions are home to many minority groups (Hmong, Dao, Tay, Muong, Thai), each mastering unique textile traditions, dances, and crafts. Prepare your hikes with sturdy shoes, respect local customs, and favor the dry season for Mai Chau.

Looking for hikes amid breathtaking scenery? Discover our itinerary Northern Vietnam, hikes and villages.

3. Lose yourself in the timeless charm of Hanoi

Hanoi, the vibrant capital, blends ancient traditions with modern buzz. Between the Old Quarter, the centuries-old pagodas, and traces of the French colonial past, the city offers a unique, charming atmosphere.

A stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake or a stop at a traditional café are moments to savor. Also enjoy the cultural richness with the imperial citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO site. To explore this city and many others, consider a self-guided trip to Vietnam, where you set your own pace.

4. Discover the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City

In the south, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) provides a striking contrast: modern skyscrapers, colorful markets, and abundant street food. The dynamic, connected city also offers lively nightlife, perfect for sampling street cuisine, exploring contemporary art galleries, or enjoying a rooftop coffee with views.

Walking in the Ben Thanh district, visiting the Central Post Office, or the War Remnants Museum helps understand the tumultuous history and incredible vitality of this metropolis. A must-visit stop on your Essentials of Vietnam itinerary.

5. Taste refined and varied gastronomy

Vietnamese cuisine is a journey in itself. From the famous pho to crispy banh mi, including nem and banh xeo pancakes, every dish is a flavor explosion. By region:

• North: subtle and savory flavors, specialties like Bun Cha, Pho, Com Lang Vong, and Banh Chung;
• Central: spicy and bold cuisine, dishes like Bun Bo Hue;
• South: slightly sweet notes, abundance of coconut milk, Banh Xeo crepes, Com Tam, hotpots.

Visit local and floating markets on the Mekong for super fresh products, and don’t miss street food in "quán ăn" – choose busy places for a safe culinary immersion.

A culinary journey in Vietnam is also a way to meet the locals, especially through our Meetings and Flavors of Vietnam tour.

6. Experience authentic encounters

Vietnam is also discovered through its people. The welcome is warm, sincere, often accompanied by a smile and a cup of tea. Vietnamese people value hospitality and love sharing their daily life: meal preparation, farming work, crafts, or bike rides.

Staying with locals in a traditional house, sharing a meal, or learning to weave bamboo baskets are opportunities to create unforgettable memories. To live a respectful local immersion, adopt a humble attitude, participate with curiosity, and respect customs when visiting villages.

These exchanges are at the heart of the experience, notably in tours highlighting authentic encounters.

7. Travel the country by train

The train in Vietnam is legendary. Traveling aboard the Reunification Express between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City takes you through 1,700 km of varied landscapes: white sandy beaches, lush jungles, and postcard scenery between Hue and Da Nang.

Several compartment types are offered: standard seats, "soft sleeper" bunks, or air-conditioned VIP cabins. Taking the train offers safety, comfort, and authenticity, allowing stops in places like Nha Trang or Hue. Book in advance, especially in high season, and allow some flexibility as punctuality is approximate.

For an original adventure, discover our program Vietnam by Train.

8. Relax on paradisiacal beaches

After the effort, comfort! Vietnam has some of Asia’s most beautiful beaches:

• My Khe in Da Nang: white sand, varied water sports, great for families
• An Bang near Hoi An: clear waters, snorkeling, parasailing, relaxed atmosphere
• Nha Trang: large busy bay, snorkeling, golden beaches
• Phu Quoc: pristine beaches, tropical nature, diving
• Lang Co and Con Dao coves: wild and secluded settings
• Cat Ba and Halong Bay: intimate beaches with views of karst formations

To reach these gems, favor flights to Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc, or combine bus and boat access to Halong Bay and Cat Ba. The beaches are best enjoyed outside the monsoon season, between March and September depending on the region.

These seaside stops are perfect for ending your trip beautifully, especially if you choose a combination like South Vietnam, from the Mekong to Phu Quoc.

9. Admire cultural and historical heritage

Vietnam boasts impressive historical heritage, with several UNESCO sites: Thang Long Citadel in Hanoi, the Ho dynasty citadel, Trang An landscape complex, Halong Bay, monuments of Hue, Hoi An’s old town, My Son sanctuary, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

In May 2024, the Nine Urns of the Nguyen dynasty in Hue were inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World register, illustrating the cultural importance of Vietnamese heritage. The Bà Chua Xu temple in Chau Doc was recognized as intangible cultural heritage in 2025.

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, charms with its traditional houses and colorful lanterns. For a full cultural journey, some of our itineraries like From Vietnam to Cambodia allow you to extend the exploration to the legendary Angkor temples.

10. Immerse yourself in lush nature

Nature lovers will be thrilled. Vietnam offers an incredible variety of ecosystems: tropical forests, karst mountains, wild beaches, and national parks. Among the natural gems to explore in 2024:

• Cuc Phuong (Ninh Binh), Asia's best national park in 2024, known for exceptional biodiversity, shaded trails, and primate sanctuaries;
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang: monumental caves, tropical forests, legendary treks;
• Bach Ma: mountains, panoramas, birdwatching, and floral diversity;
• Cat Ba, Ba Be, or Nui Chua for lovers of wild nature, kayaking, or spelunking.

Set off on a trek to discover the abandoned Phong Nha valley, hike among rare species at Cuc Phuong, or walk the historic Ho Chi Minh trail for an authentic adventure.

For those seeking an elegant immersion, discover our journeys The Verdant Elegance of Vietnam.

Extend your adventure beyond Vietnam

Want to go further? Combine your discovery of Vietnam with a trip to Laos or Cambodia, or enjoy a gentle cruise on the Mekong to explore stunning landscapes. Many Mekong tours combine natural discoveries, market immersions, and stops in riverside villages.

Prepare your Vietnam trip now!

Before you go, here are some practical tips not to miss:

• Visa: French nationals benefit from a visa exemption for stays under 15 days (arrival and departure days included). Otherwise, it is easy to apply for a 90-day e-visa. Check your passport’s validity (minimum 6 months after departure).
• Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccines, but it is recommended to be up-to-date on universal vaccines (diphtheria, tetanus, polio, hepatitis A and B). For extended stays or rural areas, consider typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, and mosquito prevention.
• Health advice: Drink bottled water and follow food hygiene rules.

Whether you are drawn by breathtaking landscapes, human encounters, cultural richness, or culinary adventure, Vietnam is an unforgettable destination.

With Shanti Travel, benefit from the expertise of our advisors to build a tailor-made trip, blending discovery, authenticity, and comfort.

Contact an expert now to bring your Asian dream to life!