Vietnam Holidays

Featured Vietnam Hotels

Traveling North to South Vietnam

The long thin shape of Vietnam is often compared to a pole with rice baskets at either end, and at the two ends of Vietnam are the two major cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Holidays to Vietnam often take the form of a journey from north to south, with these two cities as the natural start and end points. It's very easy to use the rail network -- the Reunification Express -- for travelling through the country, setting you free to relax and contemplate the amazing scenery, and air-conditioned coaches ferry tourists up and down Highway 1 between the two cities.

An ideal starting-point for Vietnam holidays is the northern capital Hanoi, sometimes known as Thanh Long, the city of the Soaring Dragon, whichis full of serenity and grace. It's worth spending time exploring the Old City with its maze of narrow lanes, where ancient pagodas mingle with exquisite colonial architecture. To escape from the hustle and bustle of the markets and street traders, you can relax at the 1,000-year-old Temple of Literature, or by the tranquil waters of the Hoan Kiem Lake.

Cruise Delights

While enjoying a Vietnam holiday, staying in Hanoi presents an excellent opportunity to explore Ha Long Bay, one of the country’s most breathtaking attractions. The bay is renowned for its numerous rocky limestone formations emerging from the aqua-green waters, resembling sea dragons, and creating an otherworldly and mystical ambiance. A convenient option is to arrange an overnight cruise from Hanoi aboard a luxurious sampan, allowing you to traverse more than 2,000 jungle-covered islands adorned with grottoes, lakes, and caves, many of which boast natural formations. Alternatively, you can opt to rent a kayak to navigate the caves or discover a secluded and tiny bay whilst on your Vietnam holiday.

The other unmissable cruise for holidays to Vietnam is the Mekong Delta, which meanders through tropical forests past fertile rice paddies and sugar cane groves. Quaint villages nestle along its banks, and floating markets tempt you as you sail slowly by. It's even possible to spend the night in a riverside family home making your Vietnam holiday truly unforgettable.

Adventure Treks

To experience more adventure while on a holiday to Vietnam, head to Sa Pa, for astonishing views over the jungles, mountain ranges, dramatic waterfalls, and spectacular rice terraces of north-west Vietnam. Participate in a guided trek to venture into secluded villages, engaging with the Hmong and other hill tribes, each with their distinct and picturesque lifestyles and cultures. There’s even the possibility of lodging in their homes for a more immersive experience. Another option is to journey south of Hanoi into the forested limestone mountains of Cuc Phuong National Park, where you can come across numerous rare bird and animal species.

Historic Cities

Further south, Hoi An in Central Vietnam is a beautiful old city thatdates to the Champa Kingdom 2,000 years ago. At its heart is the atmospheric Old Town, full of beautiful architecture, with narrow winding lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and hundreds of tailor's shops. Also in Central Vietnam, on the banks of the Perfume River, lies Hué, once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, with its spectacular sprawling Citadel full of ornate temples and grand palaces, set around the magnificent Thien Mu Pagoda.

Beautiful Beaches

Although the beach may not be your priority for holidays to Vietnam, some of the finest beaches in south-east Asia are to be found here. The best known is Nha Trang in southern Vietnam, popular for its palm trees, picturesque mountains, and lush islands. However, there are many beautiful and less frequented beaches, such as Mui Né in the south-east, a great place for windsurfing, or Da Nang with its incredible mountains and caves. The Con Dao islands off the south-eastern coast are among south-east Asia's most idyllic and undiscovered island groups, and one of Vietnam's star attractions for people going on holiday to Vietnam.

Local Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is a tantalising journey of flavours, showcasing a blend of aromatic herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients. Pho, a fragrant noodle soup, is a culinary icon, with its balance of rice noodles, broth, and tender slices of beef or chicken. Banh Mi, is a fusion of French and Vietnamese influences, presenting a delightful sandwich, combining a crispy baguette with an array of fillings like grilled meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The vibrant street food scene beckons with delicacies such as spring rolls, both fresh and fried. Exploring local markets on your Vietnam holiday unveils an array of exotic fruits like dragon fruit and lychee – providing a sweet and refreshing experience.

Whether you decide to stay in one place or travel through the country, Vietnam holidays will undoubtedly dazzle your senses. Apart from the wonderful sights to see, there are exciting festivals, and the cuisine is utterly delicious, quite different from that of other Far East countries such as Thailand or Bali. Above all, the country's greatest asset is its friendly and hospitable people, ensuring your entire trip will be a feast of delights.

Are you ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime holiday to Vietnam? Feel free to get in contact with our Far East travel experts and request a quote today.