10 days in Vietnam - The Best of the North!
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and the Cu Chi Tunnels was incredible…
However, they didn’t feel like authentic Vietnam to me… at least not in the way the misty rice terraces of Sapa, the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An, or the street food chaos of Hanoi do.
Not compared to the North!
That’s why I’ve put together this 10 day Vietnam itinerary, designed to give you a deeper, more culturally rich experience.
Based on multiple trips across the country, this route focuses on the North and Central regions, where traditional life still pulses through the villages, the landscapes are absolutely stunning, and the pace of life is slower.
Meaning you can really immerse in the culture. I did anyway!
You'll explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, trek through the ethnic minority villages of Sapa, cruise past limestone cliffs in Ha Long Bay, and wind down in Hoi An and Da Nang, two of the most soul-soothing towns Vietnam has to offer.
If you're chasing authenticity, this is where you’ll find it.
Let’s start with the itinerary overview of 10 days in Vietnam.
Taking in the views in Sapa.
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10 days in Vietnam - Overview.
I have spent significant time in Vietnam over multiple trips and this is the 10 days in Vietnam that I recommend, as it offers authentic experiences across chaotic cities, remote villages, and beautiful bays.
There is no doubt that you will come away from this trip in love with Vietnam and its beautiful culture!
Hanoi is the most efficient starting point, and full of surprises, so it is straight in at the deep end for you:
Day 1 - Hanoi - Explore the Old Quarter.
Day 2 - Hanoi - Temples, History & Street Food.
Day 3 - Hanoi/Sapa - Last day in Hanoi before heading to Sapa (overnight journey).
Day 4 - Sapa - Trek Day 1 – Into the Mountains.
Day 5 - Sapa - Trek Day 2 – Continue Trek & Return.
Day 5 - Shuttle bus to Tamarindo.
Day 6 - Ha Long Bay - An awesome day trip from Hanoi.
Day 7 - Da Nang - Quick morning flight leaves plenty of time to explore the city upon arrival.
Day 8 - Da Nang - A full day means you can head to Ba Na Hills or explore more of Da Nang.
Day 9 - Hoi An - A full day exploring the ancient town.
Day 10 - Hoi an/Departure - A morning in Hoi An, or on a basket boat tour before heading back to Da Nang for departure.
There are quirky cultural corners throughout the country.
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi – Explore the Old Quarter.
I felt something special when I first arrived in Hanoi, right in the middle of my 3-month Southeast Asia adventure.
After exploring Thailand and Laos in 33°C heat and endless sunshine, landing in Hanoi in February to pouring rain and a chill in the air was definitely a shock.
But instead of being put off by the sudden weather change, I was completely absorbed by the chaos around me. This was authentic Vietnam, no doubt about it.
Although it didn’t feel as fast paced as when I was exploring Ho Chi Minh City, it definitely attacks the senses in a fun way!
As a first-time visitor to Hanoi, there’s no doubt you’ll be blown away by the street energy, and maybe even a little intimidated, as scooters weave past you and market traders shout over each other to be heard.
The best place to spend your first day is the Old Quarter area, as that truly epitomises the city’s cultural heritage and has everything a traveller could want; a buzzing café culture, local and international food spots, and shops selling everything from hiking gear to quirky souvenirs.
You should plan to locate yourself centrally in Hanoi, so you can explore on foot. I loved wandering around finding hidden spots in the Old Quarter!
What to See in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
The Old Quarter is the beating heart of Hanoi, which I learned pretty soon after arrival, with a maze of narrow streets being packed with character, charm, and centuries of history.
The area is 1 square kilometer and every inch of it is packed, which I found quite surreal!
To be honest, one of the first things that I did was grab a coffee in a cafe and watch the street for an hour.
It’s a great introduction to Vietnamese culture!
With a few days in the capital, you will have enough time to wander aimlessly and see what you find.
I found hidden temples, iconic street art, and a beautiful lake on my first day.
The lake is a popular spot with the locals in the capital.
Try the famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang.
Water puppets, French colonial buildings, and ancient temples are all iconic parts of what makes Hanoi so unique, however, the iconic local flavours that I was most looking to try were the famous egg coffees.
And there is nowhere better to try one than Cafe Giang!
The centrally located cafe is accepted by most locals as the birthplace of Vietnamese egg coffee, dating back to 1946, when a bartender accidentally stumbled across the beautiful delicacy.
He ran out of milk, so whipped up egg yolks instead, then a Vietnamese treasure was born!
That curious bartender was Nguyen Van Giang who then opened Cafe Giang, and although he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on, and is a favourite with international tourists.
I found the cafe to have an awesome ambiance and it was a great feeling as part of the famous cafe culture in the Old Quarter.
The egg coffees really are a must try!
The delicious egg coffee.
Hanoi’s café culture.
Here are some other popular café’s around the Old Quarter area, which all offer a nice experience in terms of Hanoi café culture.
Café Đinh.
A cosy, slightly hidden second-floor café with vintage vibes and great views of Hoan Kiem Lake, which is perfect for quiet reflection.
Café Phố Cổ.
Tucked behind a silk shop, this rooftop café delivers stunning lake views and a classic Hanoi charm.
The Note Coffee.
Bright, cheerful, and covered in handwritten sticky notes from around the world, this spot is a feel good favourite.
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Set in a French colonial house, it’s a peaceful space known for cinnamon coffee and soft natural light.
Cộng Cà Phê.
A retro café chain with strong military-era themes and funky décor, great for people watching and coconut coffee.
Tranquil Books & Coffee.
A book lover’s hideaway with a minimalist aesthetic and calm ambiance, ideal for reading or working quietly.
Hidden Gem Coffee.
An artsy café built with recycled materials and a love for sustainability, offering a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Hanoi House Café.
A laid-back, bohemian space in a colonial building, known for its charm and quiet corners.
An Café.
A simple, friendly café near St. Joseph’s Cathedral, perfect for grabbing a banh mi and a strong Vietnamese coffee.
A famous cafe in the capital.
Hanoi Train Street.
No trip to Hanoi is complete without a visit to the iconic Train Street!
Also known as ‘Phố Đường Tàu’, which translates in Vietnamese to ‘Railway Street’, the popular street is lined with international tourists through the day and night as they rush to enjoy a drink and some food just inches from a passing train.
I visited in both daytime and nighttime, and there were definitely distinct vibes for each visit.
Daytime was more of a coffee and a chill vibe, with less crowds, more photo opportunities, and some colourful cafes, with nighttime offering a more lively experience. Think Hanoi beer, crowds, bright lights, and much more noise!
I loved both trips, but day time just edges it.
Daytime:
Vibe: Relaxed and chill.
Crowds: Fewer tourists.
Lighting: Natural light, great for photos.
Drinks: Iced coffee and egg coffee.
Noise: Quieter and calm.
Best for: Photos, relaxing, solo or couples.
Nighttime:
Vibe: Lively and energetic.
Crowds: Busier, more packed.
Lighting: Bright neon lights, atmospheric.
Drinks: Hanoi beer, cocktails.
Noise: Noisier, buzzing with conversation.
Best for: Socialising, people-watching, night owls.
2025 update:
Access can sometimes be restricted due to safety concerns, but many nearby cafes have agreements with authorities to allow controlled visits. Best to go with a local guide or ask your hotel how to visit safely and legally.
Read more on my blog about the famous street.
Waiting for the train.
Day 2: Full Day in Hanoi – Temples, History & Street Food.
If your first day in the Vietnamese was an introduction to the culture, then day 2 is definitely a trip back through history.
Prisons, lakes, and Vietnam’s most revered site will take you on a journey back to the country’s revolutionary past, when colonial rule, war, and the fight for independence shaped modern Vietnam.
I enjoyed the Cu Chi Tunnels Tour from Saigon when I was in the south of the country, but the relics of the North are just as interesting.
From the solemn halls of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to the haunting cells of Hỏa Lò Prison, and the peaceful waters of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, today offers powerful insight into Hanoi’s role in the nation’s story
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must while in Hanoi. It’s where the preserved body of ‘Uncle Ho’, as he’s affectionately known, lies in state.
I found the experience to be quiet, formal, and surprisingly moving.
The guards are strict, and visitors file through in silence, reflecting the deep respect many Vietnamese people still have for him.
Once I arrived outside, the size of Ba Dinh Square gave me a sense of the scale and symbolism behind the site.
A very peaceful and respectful landmark.
Hoa Lo Prison.
After you’ve paid your respects to Ho Chi Minh, and If time allows, you should make a stop at Hoa Lo Prison.
It is a sobering but essential site that traces Vietnam’s journey from colonial occupation to the scars of modern war. You should dedicate several hours to exploring the exhibitions inside the prison, as they span different eras of Vietnamese history, both as victim and victor.
Hanoi Hilton.
On my tour I learned about The nickname ‘Hanoi Hilton’, which was ironically given to Hỏa Lò Prison by American prisoners of war (POWs) during the Vietnam War (1955–1975).
‘Thảo’, our local tour guide, mentioned that The name was darkly sarcastic, and a grim joke by captured U.S. soldiers comparing the harsh prison conditions to the luxury of a Hilton hotel - a way for POWs to maintain morale and a sense of humor despite enduring very tough conditions.
Here's a brief outline of what you can expect in terms of exhibits at Hỏa Lò Prison:
Original Prison Cells.
I walked through preserved stone cells, including solitary confinement areas with leg irons still in place.
Torture Devices.
View instruments used during French colonial rule, such as shackles and the guillotine. They open your eyes as to how grim the conditions really were.
Lifelike Statues.
I saw some realistic mannequins depict scenes of daily prison life, resistance, and overcrowding. The ones which are locked together demonstrate the confined conditions.
Historical Photos & Documents.
Black-and-white photos, letters, and records tell the stories of both Vietnamese prisoners and American POWs. If you have time, you should really delve into these.
American POW Section.
Displays include photos of U.S. prisoners (like John McCain), uniforms, and propaganda materials emphasising inhumane treatment.
:The prison is centrally located, so it’s easy to visit after the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or en route back from Train Street or the Old Quarter. You will notice it from afar due to its iconic entrance.
I allocate around 90 minutes which was sufficent.
The iconic entrance to the prison.
Ngoc Son & Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
After a day or two in Hanoi, you will be craving some peace and quiet.. that’s for sure!
Luckily you don’t have to walk far to find it, with Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the Old Quarter offering a tranquil escape.
I enjoyed a walk around the 1 mile route at a leisurely pace one day and just observed the local life, where workers were enjoying a lunchtime cigarette with surreal views, families were feeding the wildlife, and there was even a wedding photoshoot!
At the centre of the lake sits the famous Turtle Tower, a small stone structure built in the late 19th century.
It blends beautifully with the backdrop of modern skyscrapers and the peaceful greenery that surrounds the lake.
A very colourful entrance to the temple.
Just a short walk across the bright red Huc Bridge leads you to Ngoc Son Temple, a culturally important site dedicated to General Trần Hưng Đạo and other national icons.
Set on a small island, the temple offers a quiet moment away from the city buzz, with traditional altars, intricate architecture, and even a preserved giant turtle on display.
I enjoyed standing at the far end, as it is a peaceful spot overlooking Turtle Tower, with sweeping views across the lake that perfectly blend Hanoi’s history and modern charm.
Cultural souvenirs inside the temple.
Day 3: Last day in Hanoi before heading to Sapa (overnight journey).
Another full day in Hanoi before a night journey to Sapa gives you ample time to tick off any landmarks you have missed, or to chill out for the day.
I spent my last day walking around the Old Quarter and trying different local delicacies, in the market, street food stalls, and in some cafes.
Another local delicacy that you must try.
Egg coffees were the first must try in Hanoi, but another one is the famous Bahn Mi sandwiches.
One of the most popular spots in the city is Bánh Mì 25, known for its perfect balance of crisp baguette, fresh herbs, and flavour-packed fillings.
It's earned its reputation thanks to its consistency, friendly service, and the way it captures everything great about Vietnamese street food in one bite.
I researched before I visited Hanoi and Bánh Mì 25 was on my list, so it was fun ticking it off on my last day in the capital.
There are queues throughout the day and night, however, the service is fast.
It was a taste sensation!
A unique Starbucks in the capital.
My luxury Vietnam sleeper bus experience.
Overnight sleeper trains and buses have been popular on my travels over the last few years. with mixed experiences, so I was sceptical about this one….
However, it pleasantly surprised me!
I had privacy with curtains, I could stretch out under a blanket, and the driver wasn’t too crazy (maybe I got lucky though).
In all seriousness, I managed to get around 4-5 hours of good sleep on this journey, which meant I was fresh and raring to go for the trek on day 4.
There are multiple toilet stops on the way, however, you don’t have to leave the bus, especially, if you are too comfy!
Enjoying the luxury sleeper bus in Vietnam.
Day 4: Sapa Trek Day 1 – Into the Mountains.
Whichever trekking experience you choose, you will start from the town of Sapa, and head towards the mountains and villages.
It didn’t take long for the traditional terraced rice fields to come into view, as the Muong Hoa Valley created an epic backdrop. So colourful and vast!
The local guides speak very good English, which is amazing as they have learned it all through speaking to international visitors.
This makes the tour even better, as we were asking questions about the local life, and how they manage to survive, and thrive, in such a small village community!
We learned a lot as we explored.
Of all the tours I enjoyed in Vietnam, this was the most fulfilling!
The tour group taking a break in Sapa.
Entering the local villages - an awesome experience.
Entering the local villages was honestly my favourite part of the Sapa trek.
When we got to Ta Van, we saw kids playing together outside, men cruising by on motorbikes along the narrow paths, and water buffalo just hanging out next to homes like part of the family.
Oh, and a Vietnamese flag displayed in most homes… They are proud of their country!
It was surreal watching the local life, as it is so different to my world.
This sort of experience is what makes travel so important!
A local kid in Sapa.
Some stunning scenery.
I loved the landscapes in Sapa.
The lush green rice terraces cascading down the mountainsides, misty peaks in the distance, and the quiet villages tucked into the hills.
This made the trek way more fun, and ‘Pang’, our excellent tour guide, made sure that she led us the more difficult route, which allowed us to walk right beside the rice fields.
We felt like the local farmers for a brief moment!
Another candid Sapa shot,
Views for days.
Day 5 - Sapa Trek Day 2 – Continue Trek & Return.
On day two of a typical two-day Sapa trek, you’ll usually continue through more remote villages and less touristy trails.
The route often includes trekking through bamboo forests, crossing small streams, and visiting other ethnic minority villages like Giang Ta Chai or Su Pan, before finishing up and heading back to Sapa town in the afternoon.
A scenic trek.
An authentic homestay.
After a long day hiking in the beautiful setting, we stayed in the Tả Van Village, which sits quietly in the lush Muong Hoa Valley, about 10 km from Sapa town.
It is home to the Giay ethnic minority, and offers a very slow paced way of life!
I loved the change of pace… from the chaos of Hanoi to the quiet village life in 24 hours.
There are water buffalo in the fields, rice fields for miles, and towering mountains which the sun rises behind each morning.
If you get woken by the homestay’s pet rooster as I did, you can catch the early morning sunshine.
The beautiful peaceful moment definitely made up for the lack of sleep!
And don’t worry, you can enjoy a strong coffee and a pancake breakfast before your second day trekking.
Inside out awesome homestay in Sapa.
Our homestay in Tả Van was fun, and felt family-run, giving us a personal, grounded experience with local hosts who proudly shared their culture.
They also took part in a game of Uno with all of the International guests making for a unique travel experience.
Carefully choose your authentic homestay here!
Learning about the forest on day 2.
Day 6: Ha Long Bay Day Trip.
After an evening chilling in Hanoi, its time to lave the city again.
This time for a fantastic day cruising through Ha Long Bay
When planning my 3 month trip round Asia, Ha Long Bay was one of the first places on my bucket list, and it did not disappoint.
The tour was fun from start to finish, with our guide ‘Hung’ ensuring we were looked after all day.
The cruise was fun and we enjoyed a buffet lunch which was included in the price, before we could explore the boat, including the deck and jacuzzi.
My favourite part was as we approached the most iconic limestone formations rising out of the water. The towering cliffs covered in greenery that looked like something straight out of a movie.
Cruising in Ha Long Bay.
Enjoying some adventure on in Ha Long Bay.
I opted for an additional speed boat tour which was a highlight of the day, as our local captain did his best to give us all a rush of adrenaline!
I also enjoyed bamboo rafting, a hike up to the viewpoint on Ti Top, and some cave exploration.
All this fun for £30, it is such a high value offer as a travel experience.
So as you would expect, it does sell out often!
My favourite view of the bay.
Day 7: Head to Da Nang.
By this point, you will have experienced a little bit of everything that the north has to offer, so it’s time to head to the middle of the country.
A one hour morning flight leaves plenty of time to explore your next destination ‘Da Nang’.
After checking into your hotel, take a walk along My Khe Beach or grab a coffee with an ocean view to ease into the coastal vibe.
If you’re up for it, a visit to the Marble Mountains offers caves, pagodas, and sweeping views over the city.
Whatever you choose to do on your first day in Da Nang, you should cap off your first day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant or beachside seafood spot.
Catching the Dragon Bridge breathing fire is also a must, if it’s a weekend night when you visit.
The beachfront sign.
Lady Buddha Statue and Linh Ung Pagoda.
A highlight of my time in Da Nang was the beautiful scooter ride along the Son Tra Peninsula coastal road, which leads to Monkey Mountain.
Before you head to see the monkeys though, you should visit the Lady Buddha Statue and modern pagoda ‘Linh Ung’.
The Lady Buddha (Quan The Am) is the tallest statue in Vietnam, standing tall at 67 metres.
After spending a month in Thailand, it was a refreshing surprise to see a Lady Buddha!
The statue is visible from much of the city, which demonstrates its size.
Setting an hour or two aside to visit these two highlights is enough time to relax and enjoy them. A morning visit is recommended in the hotter months, as there isn’t much protection from the sun.
I also encountered playful monkeys on the temple grounds, which was an unexpected surprise!
The Linh Ung Da Nang Pagoda near Lady Buddha statue.
Miami vibes in Da Nang.
I definitely felt an energy shift when I arrived in Da Nang.
It was no longer chaos and noise.. It was now palm trees, beachfront skyscraper hotels, and sandy beaches.
It suddenly felt like Miami!
My Khe and Non Nuoc beaches are great for sunbathing, surfing, or outdoor fitness. The locals love to workout in the sunshine, so as you walk down the long promenade you will spot people enjoying many different activities.
It’s the kind of place where modern city life meets laid back beach culture, and it totally caught me off guard in the best way.
Another fun beach in Da Nang.
Day 8 - Explore more of Da Nang.
By now, you’ve probably ticked off the beaches and paid a visit to the towering Lady Buddha, but there’s still more to see!
Day 8 is the perfect chance to squeeze in a couple of Da Nang’s standout spots: the magical mountain top escape of Ba Na Hills, and the spiritual, scenic wonder of Marble Mountain.
Ba Na Hills.
One of the unique things to do in Da Nang is to visit Ba Na Hills, the French inspired theme park, which sits on a mountain top, just inland from the coastal city.
Think French architecture, cobbled streets, flower gardens, and fairy tale castles.
And the most iconic feature, the famous Golden Bridge, which is held up by giant stone hands!
The weather can be far more unpredictable up there, due the high altitude, which requires visitors to take a long cable car up to.
The day that I visited, it was sunny in Da Nang, but cold and rainy as I crossed the Golden Bridge.
Ba Na Hills.
Marble Mountain.
If you missed Marble Mountain on your first day in the city, then its time to head there on Day 8.
Pagodas, beautiful caves, and some awesome views await you!
The landmark is a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, known for their natural beauty, and spiritual significance.
As you hike the stone stairways and tunnels, you’ll come across active temples where worship is still practiced, scenic viewpoints, and a mix of peaceful and adventurous moments throughout the mountains.
It’s the perfect blend of culture, nature, and light adventure and a must visit spot before you leave Da Nang.
Beautiful views from the top of Marble Mountain.
Day 9 - Visit the ancient town of Hoi An.
You probably didn’t choose Vietnam without picturing the lantern-lit magic of Hoi An.
Think glowing lanterns, bright architecture and aesthetically pleasing pagodas.. That is just some of the beauty that awaits you as you head over to the heritage town.
The charming town has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since just before the turn of the millennium, for its unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architecture, reflecting its multicultural trading history.
As I explored, I noticed that much of the town hasn’t been overly modernised, retaining its sense of historical authority. Authenticity can still be found in the rustic buildings, colourful streets, and beautiful food.
Hoi An Ancient Town isn’t just any old UNESCO site, it is home to over 1,100 well-preserved heritage relics.
You won’t have time to visit them all however, by purchasing a Hoi An Entrance ticket for 120,000 VND (approximately £4 GBP) per person, you get access to five of the main attractions, over a 24 hour period.
Enjoying Hoi An.
The Japanese Bridge - my favourite spot.
The Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu) is arguably the most iconic landmark in Hoi An. Dating back to the late 16th century, it’s a beautifully preserved relic of the town’s multicultural past.
Its pagoda-style roof sets it apart from the surrounding architecture, creating a truly unique scene, especially when reflected in the still water below, with picture-perfect trees framing the approach.
It’s a postcard that came to life.
The Japanese Bridge looked familiar, where had I seen it before?
Then later in the day it dawned on me, as I paid for some street food. The famous bridge is pictured on the 20,000 VDN notes.
I also visited these famous relics with my ticket:
Tan Ky Old House.
Hoi An Museum of History and Culture.
Quan Cong Temple.
Traditional Art Performance House.
The famous Japanese Bridge.
Coffee and culture.
Another immersive experience that every tourist must enjoy in Vietnam!
Picture hidden cafés in heritage buildings, most of which are yellow-walled colonial houses, which open up into peaceful courtyards, filled with lanterns, local art, and the rich aroma of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee.
Most of the cafés have open fronts so you can sit and enjoy your egg coffee while watching the unique street life.
Straw hats, food vendors, and the occasional group tour pass by, all experiencing the ancient town in their own way.
If you want a boutique roasting experience, some cafés roast their own beans and blend tradition with modern brewing styles.
Enjoying an egg coffee with some unique views.
Day 10 - A fun morning tour, before heading to Da Nang for depature.
Bay Mau Coconut Forest Basket Boat Tour.
This was like the Vietnam I remember from the South.
Cruising through the calm waterways of a jungle environment, but with a unique twist, you are doing it on a basket boat!
I loved this tour in Vietnam, as it offered some unique moments…
Enjoying the basket boat tour near Hoi An.
One minute we were calmly drifting in silence, and then all of a sudden I heard loud music, some type of Vietnamese Dance music, with a very fast beat!
I then spotted some of the local boat guides spinning the baskets at a very fast speed, with the tourists holding on for dear life.
This was occurring at regular intervals as we traversed the scenic waterways.
Then it was my turn all of a sudden… I’ll let you find out yourselves what happens next.
It is a very fun tour.
Important tips for Northern Vietnam.
Here are some of the tips which I learned during my times exploring Vietnam:
Cash is important.
I needed cash on the streets of Hanoi, the villages of Sapa, and in some places in Hoi An. As the locations aren’t as technologically advanced as the south, you should make sure you have some cash with you.
The weather can be unpredictable.
Northern Vietnam has distinct seasons, including cool winters between December and February in places like Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Giang. I didn’t have layers with me, and was caught by surprise when I arrived in a cold and wet Hanoi.
You can purchase jackets and jumpers, along with trekking gear very cheaply throughout the north of the country.
Weather can impact your plans and expectations, so plan well.
Let’s face it, we have all seen the beautiful photos online of the picturesque rice fields in Sapa, or the beautiful blue Ha Long Bay. What they don’t tell you is that them photos are of certain months, when the weather is ideal.
Other months can bring a completely different experience… Soaking wet treks, gloomy days at Ha Long Bay etc.
These destinations are still awesome all year round, but just plan your trip around the best time to visit places, especially if they are on your bucket list.
Want true culture? Stay in homestays instead of hotels.
Homestays in rural areas (like Mai Chau or Sapa) offer authentic food, cultural immersion, and local insights, which makes travel more authentic. Think twice before choosing a hotel, as Vietnam is full of awesome homestays.
We loved our time in Sapa, and met some really cool locals.
Be smart with transport and using your phone.
If you don’t plan your trip well you will find yourself overspending on transport and mobile data. Plan ahead and choose a decent e-sim.
Once you arrive, use Grab in major tourist spots, as it is much cheaper than taxis.
A beautiful coffee shop in Da Nang.
Three tours that I loved in Vietnam.
Here are three official tours I loved during my trip in Vietnam, and all three are made much better with local Vietnamese tour guides.
Coconut Village Boat and Hoi An City Tour.
An authentic Vietnamese experience.
Basket boat ride in the coconut village!
We also enjoyed a lantern release on the Hoai River.
Vietnamese tour guides are fun!
6.5 hours duration.
4.5/5 rating.
£30 per person.
✓ Pickup included.
✓ Free cancellation.
Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills Full-Day Tour.
Ride Asia's longest cable car on a trip to Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge, without having the hassle of organising the logistics.
We enjoyed the traditional Vietnamese buffet lunch which is included.
8 - 10 hours duration.
4.7/5 rating.
£50 per person.
✓ Buffet Lunch provided.
✓ Transportation by air-conditioned bus with hotel pick ups.
✓ Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills entry.
Ha Long Bay day trip with Deluxe cruise.
A 1-day Halong Bay tour offers a cost-effective way to explore the bay with premium service and modern amenities.
You will enjoy kayaking, exploring a cave, swimming at Titop island and a stunning sunset.
The views are stunning throughout the day!
1 Day duration.
4.5/5 rating.
£30 per person.
✓ English speaking guide during the trip.
✓ Kayaking or bamboo boat rowing.
✓ Lunch with Vietnamese cuisines.
✓ Free cancellation.
An awesome tour in Hanoi.
Why I feel the north of Vietnam is much more authentic than the south.
I have enjoyed times in both the North and South of Vietnam, and although both are awesome, there is something extra special about the North.
It offers heritage, tradition, and slower living, which makes for a more authentic experience!
Traditional culture is more preserved.
I found cities such as Hanoi, Sapa, and Hoi An to all have retained their ancient customs, such as old tea folk houses, traditional dress, and communal village culture.
All of which offer a rich Vietnamese experience.
Architecture & atmosphere.
The Old Quarter in Hanoi offers traditional French colonial architecture which towers above hectic streets, which can be beautifully observed with a coffee as you enjoy the cafe culture of the Vietnamese capital.
Rural, mountainous ethnic regions.
The north borders China and is home to many of Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups.
These areas are often remote and untouched by mass tourism, offer travellers deeper cultural immersion that feels more ‘authentic’. My trek in Sapa offered me some very unique experiences with the locals.
There is also less Western influence in the North, so you can see more local businesses thriving.
There are many ways to enjoy Vietnam and whichever way you choose you will love the country.
This trip was awesome for me, so I hope you can enjoy it also!
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