Vietnam Tours, Trips & Holidays

Duration:8 Days

Route:Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi

Tour Code:ICVH

Duration:12 Days

Route:Ho Chi Minh City to Ho Chi Minh City

Tour Code:ICV2

Duration:29 Days

Route:Bangkok to Bangkok

Tour Code:ICCA

1. Hanoi

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi lies in the North of the country and is the second most populous city. Encompassing a vast history, Hanoi took the honour of historical capital of Vietnam for over 1000 years, minus a century when Hue stole the title. In 1873 Hanoi was conquered by the French and went onto become the administrative centre of the colony of French Indochina. Today, Hanoi is a charming, busy city which is holding tightly onto thousands of years of tradition. The Old Quarter is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, with colonial architecture and delicious street food. Each street is named after the goods that were traditionally made there, with many shop owners still sticking to this tradition.

2. Halong Bay

Directly translated as “where the dragon descends to the sea”, Halong Bay is not only a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site but is considered one of the most picturesque and special places in Vietnam. Soaring limestone islets sit upon the quiet water, with around 1000 species of marine life existing below. Some of the limestone formations date back a staggering 20 million years, as well as evidence of human life that dates back around 18 000 years. From canoeing in the many caves to snorkeling in the warm water, Halong Bay provides one of the best experiences in Vietnam.

3. Hoi An

4. Mekong Delta

Located in the far southwest of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a lush, biodiverse region where the Mekong River empties into the sea. A unique canvas of canals, villages and rich countryside, life in the Delta revolves around the river that dominates it. Floating markets are a highlight of any Mekong Delta visit, as locals sell fish and various fruits and vegetables. The Mekong Delta covers an area of over 40,000 square kilometres with water levels varying depending on the season. While Vietnam is not necessarily known for its wildlife, the Mekong Delta is home to around 1000 species of fish, lizards and mammals.

5. Nha Trang

Famed for its beaches and scuba diving, Nha Trang is known as the Riviera of Vietnam. With around 6 kilometres of pristine coastline and white sandy beaches, a holiday to Nha Trang is the perfect way to discover another side of the country. With crystal clear waters and a wealth of marine animals, snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts will never want to leave. The main promenade offers trendy restaurants and chic boutiques, with fresh seafood being the dish of choice for many. Of course Nha Trang still has echoes of traditional Vietnam, with the Long Son Pagoda and Po Nagar Cham Towers being popular among visitors.

6. Ho Chi Minh City

7. Hue

Located in central Vietnam, Hue served as the capital city between 1802 and 1945 and was the battleground for the infamous Battle of Hue, the bloodiest battle of the Vietnam War. Sat on the Perfume River, Hue offers endless historic sites and unique garden houses. The 19th century citadel is the centrepiece of Hue, surrounded by a moat and beautiful water-lily scattered ponds, as well as palaces and temples. The city is home to 7 imperial tombs and of course the imperial city, which was home to Vietnam’s emperors. In Hue you can also find the beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda which overlooks the river. The seven story building is the tallest religious building in Vietnam and was established in 1601, with the tower finally being constructed in 1844.

8. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels, located 45 kilometres northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, is an important and sobering reminder of life during the Vietnam War. Consisting of over 120 kilometres of underground tunnels, secret doors, living spaces, hospitals and kitchens, the tunnels played an essential part of the war and saved the lives of many. Dug out by Communist guerrilla troops, the underground channels were used to transport goods, house troops and mount surprise attacks. Visitors to the Cu Chi Tunnels can crawl through some of the spaces and learn more about the importance of this underground network.

9. The Golden Bridge

A relatively new addition to the best attractions in Vietnam, the Golden Bridge is located in the Ba Na Hills resort near Da Nang. Opened in June 2018, the now famous attraction has two giant stone hands appearing to support the bridge. Designed to provide a walkway between two cable car stations on the resort, it is said the structure was inspired by “a world of gods”. Overlooking the green and beautiful Vietnam countryside, Ba Na Hills was once a popular getaway for the French during the period of colonialism. On the grounds visitors can find a charming French style village, the Fantasy Park complete with carnival rides and a wax museum, as well as the popular cable car ride overlooking the scenery. With a gap of 5800 meters between the start and end, it is considered the longest in the world.

10. Sapa

Iconic rice fields, lush forest treks and awe-inspiring beauty, Sapa is a jewel of northern Vietnam. At the heart is Sapa Town, you find markets and street food vendors, as well as a museum and modest cathedral. The fun starts when you begin exploring the local area, from the romantic waterfalls to the glorious hiking trails. Sapa is inhabited by five distinct ethnic groups, and trekking between the villages is very accessible as well as being a great cultural experience. Enjoy local cuisine and experience the tranquility of the mountains. Sapa is also the gateway to climbing the highest mountain in Vietnam - Fansipan.

11. My Son

A short drive from the town of Hoi An, My Son is the name given to the sprinkling of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples that remain in the area. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the people who inhabited the area had spiritual origins to Indian Hinduism with the site once taking the title of religious capital of the Champa Kingdom. My Son dates back to the 4th century, with many of the temples being constructed as late as the 14th century. Walking the site is a unique experience to gain an understanding of its religious importance and it is widely considered one of the best examples of Hindu architecture in Southeast Asia.

12. Hai Van Pass

Very little places in Vietnam offer soaring and beautiful coastal views like that of Hai Van Pass. Located between the province of Hue and Da Nang City, Hai Van Pass stands at 500 metres above sea level making it the highest pass in Vietnam. Twisty roads, unique look out points and spectacular views of the misty mountains, the stretch of coastline offers quiet sandy beaches and a new vantage point around every bend. The stretch of road rose to fame when featured on Top Gear: Vietnam Special and was dubbed as “a deserted ribbon of perfection” by host Jeremy Clarkson.