The route of your amazing journey:
- Hanoi (Vietnam) – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Khao Bang – Banzek Waterfalls – Hanoi – Bach Market (Laokai Province) – Sapa – Laokai Province – Fanshipan Mountain – Jenbai Province – Hanoi
This route is the author’s recommendation and is designed for 14 days. Further you will find a large list of amazing places in Vietnam and will be able to plan your trip yourself.
Nha Trang Resort Town
Nha Trang is a resort town with a number of excellent resorts to stay in such as Mia Resort, Atlantic Nha Trang Hotel, Amiana Resort and Villas, and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay to name just a few. Spend a few days here if you get the chance – there’s a lot to see and do here. Nha Trang has the marine reserve, which is in the south part of Nha Trang Bay and incorporates some of the other island. It’s a must see. Just south of Nha Trang are some great beaches that you’ll want to explore. Nha Trang, Long Beach, or both great places to enjoy some sun and sea. If you are someone who likes to live on the edge, be sure to check out Ba Ho Waterfalls Cliff Jumping. You hike through the jungle to find this great
Sapa Special mission!
Your Vietnam vacation should include some time in Sapa. While in Sapa take a ride on the Cable Car that goes between Sapa and Fansipan Peak where there are temples and restaurants. Hiking in the area is very popular. Muong Hoa Valley is great for hiking. Just 30 minutes out of Sapa you will find two breathtaking waterfalls. Tram Ton Pass is a 4 hour hike along a secluded trail through villages and rice paddies. Love waterfall is a short hike and you can even swim in the area. So many memories to make
Mui Ne
Mui Ne should be on your list of places to visit on your Vietnam vacation. If you love water sports you are going to love the fact the windsurfing at Mui Ne is fabulous! Have some fun on the local waters. If you’ve never windsurfed before Mui Ne has great windsurfing schools. After you’ve had enough playing on the water, you’ll want to take some time to explore the ruins of Po Shanu Chan Towers from the 9th Century, where you’ll find the ruins from three towers, and the cemetery has interesting tombstones. There are many beach resorts if you feel like staying awhile.
Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh Province has some fantastic ecotourism happening. You get to see some beautiful old architecture, learn about the history of the area, explore the many limestone caves, visit the botanical gardens, and visit some incredibly old temples. If you are trying to create your short list of places to go, this needs to be on it.
Fongnya Kebang Special mission!
Since 2003, Fongnya Kebang is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is where you will find the oldest karst mountains in all of Asia. There are hundreds of caves to explore, which are the highlight of the areas. Many so spectacular they have their own underground rivers. Explore hiking in the jungle or rural mountain bike riding. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to explore all that Fongnya Kebang has to offer!
Located in the Phon Nha Ke Bang National Park, 280 miles south of the capital city Hanoi.
Lang Co Fishing Village
In the Phu Loc district you will find the charming fishing village of Lang Co. Spectacular views with one side a picturesque blue sky and seas, and the other high mountains. The stunning views and the friendly people attract tourists to the area. Enjoy the sandy Lang Ko Beach, which is kind of hidden. It’s the perfect place for you to kick back and enjoy some relaxation time.
Cu Du Village, Loc Vinh Commune, Phu Loc, Hue, Vietnam.
Snorkeling on Cham Island Special mission!
What can be better than watching colorful fish and other sea life through your snorkel? If you are new to snorkeling, Cham Island Diving can train you. There’s some lovely guesthouses where you can stay if you want to get away from it all for a few days, but you need to plan ahead. The ferry departs from Cua Dai Beach. Come enjoy the beautiful waters!
Ba Be Lake Ecotourism
Become immersed in what nature has to offer while ensuring that the environment remains protected. Ecotourism lets you enjoy the beauty in the environment at Ba Be Lake area, where there are as many as 81 different mammal species, 322 bird species,106 fish species, 27 reptile species,17 amphibian species, not to mention all the bugs, spiders, and insects. Come see and enjoy! Ba Be Lake is also a great place to do some kayaking and enjoy the tranquility of the region.
Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is a great place to enjoy some outdoor activities, like rock climbing, or kayaking. You might also want to visit the caves. It’s quite the experience. You can hike along the coast and enjoy the beauty. Be sure to book a cruise in Lan Ha Bay. You won’t be disappointed.
Mu Cang Chai District
Mu Can Chai is a rural district where pictures simply can’t do it justice. But this rural area is also home to the paragliding festival that is held in September in the Khau Pha Mountain Pass. What an experience. This area is also some excellent hiking through the mountains. You’ll find the most breathtaking views you can imagine. Go on your own (be prepared) or take one of the local tours.
Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is the biggest of the Cat Ba Archipelago. Most of the locals live in Cat Ba Town, and the majority of the island is jungle and National Park. Rent a scooter and go for a scenic ride, walk, or take a tour. Make sure to visit the Hospital Cave. The bay remains pretty untouched. This is an experience you’ll not soon forget.
Lak Lake
This charming spot is located in the middle of central highlands. This is the largest freshwater lake in the in that region, and it’s surrounded by rolling hills, rice fields, and villages. This area is fairly undeveloped, but there is a tourism office. If you want to go out on a boat or you would like a guide so you can hike around the lake, they can help. Stay with a local family on a home stay or you can stay at Lak Lake Resort.
Royal Tomb of Tu Duc
The Emperor of Tu Duc tomb was shared with two other Emperors. Inside are three alters that commemorate each one of these Emperors. If you love to explore tombs, this should be on your list.
Located approx.1.44 miles from Hue city center, Vietnam.
Canyoning
Canyoning tends to be harder than it actually looks, but it is wildly fun. Vietnam is one of the best places to do it and Dalat offers the perfect place for you to learn how to canyon. Whether you are a beginner or a pro there’s routes for everyone. This is what memories are made of.
Location is Dalat, Vietnam.
Can Tho – Mekong Delta
If you love to explore you’ll want to make sure you include the exotic Mekong Dela, starting at Can Tho and the surrounding villages. If you want to get a true understanding of the local village life, stay at a home stay. Then you can access the narrow laneways and waterways of the Mekong Delta. Take in the floating markets, enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, bike rid through the tiny villages, and have the experience of a lifetime.
Can Tho, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho, Vietnam.
Quy Nhon Beach
Quy Nhon doesn’t always get the attention that other Vietnam beach towns do, but this great kept secret should. It’s just a short distance easy of Dieu Tri railway station, and here you’ll get to not only experience the great beach it has to offer for the sun and sand lovers, you’ll also get to some excellent restaurants, and more. Come enjoy the sugary, flat sand, with no crowd.
Located at Nhon Ly Ward, Quy Nhon, Vietnam
Bao Loc Waterfall
Between Ho Chi Minh and Dalat, you’ll find Bao Loc. Don’t let it’s blankness fool you, because here is where you will find the most incredible waterfall inside the Danbri Waterfall Resort. This 70 meter waterfall crashes down at an incredible speed and it’s an amazing sight. It will take your breath away. Don’t miss out on this experience!
Located at Thon 14, Ly Thai To, Dambri, tp. Bao Loc, Lam Dong, Vietnam
The Highlands
One of the most stunning places to visit in Vietnam is the highlands. There are so many rich cultures, traditional customs, and stunning landscapes. It’s also famous for its coffee. You can sit on the shores of the Dakbla Rivers, ride an elephant, take a stroll along the promenade, and explore the local culture.
Central Highlands, Vietnam.
Ming Mang Tomb
Hue is North of Danang, and at first glance you might wonder why you are even here. It was once the Nguyen Dynasty’s capital from 1802 to1945. Do some exploring of the tombs. The most famous tomb being the Minh Mang tomb. There’s also the Dong Khanh tomb. Check it out!
Located on the west bank of the Perfume River, 12km from Hue, Vietnam.
Tam Coc Bike and Boat Day Trip Tour
There are different tours so check around, but you’ll usually be picked up at your hotel and then enjoy a ride in an air conditioned minivan, vehicle, or bus to Ninh Binh Province. Enjoy some spectacular views of Tam Coc as you go down the river on a boat, on your bike you’ll ride through the rice paddies, see the mountains, and the cliffs. What a wonderful way to experience the area.
Departs from your hotel and heads south to Ninh Binh Province.
Mekong Delta Adventure Special mission!
Take a day tour to visit the Mekong Delta where you can explore the Delta canals by boat, kayak, rowboat, or even by motorized rickshaw. Meet some local artisans, try the local cuisine, and learn about the local culture while experiencing some incredible views.
Silk Village Motorcycle Tour
You’ll ride on the back of a motorcycle where you can see the silk factory, vegetable farms, and the plantation. On the Linh Phuoc Pagoda you’ll see artistry that depicts dragons. Be in awe of the Elephant Waterfall, see the Hang Nga Crazy House up close, and so much more. This is a tour offered by different companies so check the itinerary to find a good match for you, and you’ll have an amazing day!
Depart in the morning from your hotel on the back of a motorcycle with an experienced driver.
Phu Yen
Phu Yen has spectacular beaches and interesting coastal sights. Ganh Da Dia is the most famous feature, where there are layers of stones. The coastal meadows are one of the top tourist attractions in Vietnam, a sight most locals are familiar with. Phu Yen should be on your ‘to visit’ list.
Phu Yen Province, Vietnam
Mui Ne
Mui Ne is known for its scenic, family friendly beaches and delicious seafood. It’s also known for its amazing sand dunes, which is why more people come to Mui Ne for the sand dunes than the beaches. The sunset is spectacular from the dunes. Come discover what Mui Ne has to offer.
Mui Ne, Phan Thiet, Binh Thu a n Province, Vietnam
Can Gio Monkey Island
Can Gio Monkey Island is bustling with visitors who are curious to see the residential monkeys at play. You get to interact with the cheeky monkeys, learn about their habitat, and how they are being preserved for future generations. This is a fun activity for the whole family.
Long Hoa, Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Mekong Delta Provinces
This area is becoming more popular for visitors that looking to experience a home lifestyle. A day trip is ideal where you can explore An Giang, Can Tho, Kien Giang, and more. Wander the floating markets, go for a boat rode along the forest, and enjoy home-style meals while eating with the locals.
An Giang Province, Vietnam
Long Beach, Phu Quoc Special mission!
Long Beach spans the west coast of Phu Quoc. For about 20-miles you will see soft yellow sand, sway palm trees, people sunbathing, swimmers, and if you are there at the right time, you’ll also get to enjoy spectacular sunsets. In fact, this spot is known for sunset watching.
Yet another great beach you’ll want to explore. It’s as beautiful as many other beaches on Phu Quoc Island, but the sand is white and water is calm, making it a great place for a swim in the pale blue waters. You can even enjoy a kayak if you like as rentals are available right on the beach.
City Beach, Nha Trang
The south coast city of Nha Trang is home to City Beach, which is considered a premium beach. Here you’ll find 6-kilometers of sand with rolling waves. Enjoy day boat trips, water sports, cafes, restaurants, and more. What a place to spend time!
Rappelling Tour at Marble Mountain
If you are an adrenaline junky the rappelling at Marble Mountain is exactly right for you. You will dangle over sheer cliff faces, and descend down into caves that are pitch black, while you hang from a rope that’s high above the surface of the earth. Now that’s what stories are made of!
GUIDE TO LIVING IN HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN
Located at Hoi An, from Da Nang, Vietnam.
Doc Lert Beach, Hon Khoi Peninsula
On the Hon Khoi Peninsula you’ll find the splendid Doc Lert Beach, the perfect and pristine place to spend a day being a beach bum. White sands, evergreen trees, and a beach that hasn’t yet fully been discovered makes for a perfect day. If this still feels too busy there are other secluded beaches in the area.
My Khe, Quang Ngai
You’ll discover 7-kilometers of soft, powder sand and this is such a great area for swimming. Along the beach, youll find hamlets and sometimes youll see fish boats anchored in the bay. After youWe enjoyed the beach, why not enjoy a good meal in one of the many restaurants.
Phong Nha Botanic Gar
Enjoy the beautiful landscape made up mainly of forest, a naturally swimming pool, and a stunning waterfall, come for a day or a few hours. This is a terrific place for a self-guided tour through the jungle.
Son Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park 51000, Vietnam
Quy Nhon Beach Perfection
Quy Nhon fills the need for a beach niche between Nha Trang and Hoi An. Actually the beach at Quy Nhon is in a perfect place, because it’s almost dead center between two of the hottest tourist spots. The immaculate beach offers you lots of sand and long, wide promenade that hugs the coast, with lots of green space and no tourist attractions. While you are in Quinon be sure to enjoy one of the local beach.
Located on the central coast of Vietnam.
Quang Binh Gate (Quang Binh Quan)
You’11 find the Quang Binh Gate in Dong Hoi City. The architectural structure has both historic and artistic value. It was built back in 1630 to protect Phu Xuan. As a result, of time that has passed and several battles it has endured, the gate had suffered extensive damage, but it has been restored to its original state. It’s quite a sight to see!
Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam.
Kon Tum Church
Kon Tum Church was built by the French Prie from 1913 to1918. The construction combines Bahnar still house with Roman style, and the decoration ties closely to daily life, the people’s culture, and nature.
Located Nguyen Hue, Thong Nhat, Kon Tum, Vietnam.
Mount Fansipan
If you thrive on adventure, Mount Fansipan is waiting for you. You can try to conquer its peak of at 3,143 meters high. This is a challenge and it will take you at least 3 days to be victorious. You’ll battle against all the elements of nature,along with steep climbs and rough terrain. What an accomplishment!
The Tam Toa Church
This old Catholic church was built back in the 19th century and American bombs destroyed the church during the Vietnam War. It now remains standing as ruins, a powerful and interesting display.
TP Da Nang, Tran Cao Van, Tam Thuan, Thanh Khe, Da Nang, Vietnam
Tay Lake & Water Park
Ho Tay is a fun water park located in the West lake Park amusement park. This modern entertainment facility has a lazy river,slides,pools,and state of the art water features. There’s even a roller coaster and Ferris wheel. Fun for the whole family.
Located at 614 Ngo 612 – Lac Long Quan, Nhat Tan, Tay Ho, Ha Noi, Vietnam.