7 best places to travel to Vietnam

Ready to stretch your travel-loving legs post-pandemic? It’s no secret that travelling has looked a little different ever since Covid-19, and unfortunately, this often translates into expensive plane tickets.

That’s why it pays to find places where your wallet won’t be strained too hard – luckily, Vietnam is the perfect destination! With some of its most popular spots like Hanoi, Hoi An and Danang, you can explore Vietnamese culture in full without breaking the bank – what an absolute steal!

Check out our list of seven must-see spots for a budget-friendly yet unforgettable holiday. 

Hanoi

Are you someone who loves a good mix of culture and nightlife? Well, look no further than the capital of Vietnam – Hanoi! This millennia-old city has it all. Go sightseeing and take a stroll through its cobbled alleyways, gaze at Colonial facades or just sample all the chic eateries. Yes, the ‘Insta-worthy’ part is taken care of – now what about more than that?

Don’t forget to grab a steaming bowl of Phở while you’re there to take in some local cafe culture!

When dusk sets in, explore the city’s rooftop bars which never fail to scream cosmopolitan vibes! Or if art beckons you, then know that Hanoi is also known as Vietnam’s Art Capital.

With delicious food spots and picturesque attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake coming alive with joggers and yogis in the early mornings and evenings – the party never stops in Hanoi!

Da nang

Da Nang is undoubtedly one of the hottest spots in Vietnam. With its broad beaches, scrumptious street food, the world-renowned Hai Van Pass and stunning collection of bars and cafes, it’s easy to see why locals here wear some of the widest smiles in the country. Let’s start with My Khe Beach, stretching idyllically from Son Tra mountain – it’ll leave you looking good and feeling great!

Head to one of Da Nang’s luxe resorts if you want some serious rest and relaxation, or visit Son Tra Peninsula for a chance to gawk at those sweet endangered red-shanked douc langurs. And don’t forget to grab a pair of binoculars on your way there – it’ll definitely make spotting wildlife more fun!

What’s more exciting is that Mi Quang awaits back in town – savour its delicious noodles, pork, shrimp, quail eggs and herbs. Oh, Marble Mountains await just 15 minutes away too — perfect for indulging your inner spiritual senses. Better book a spot for yourself soon!

Ho Chi Minh

Formerly known as Saigon, it’s the economic heart of Vietnam and is ready to show you exactly why it should hold that title.

Take a stroll down Đồng Khởi street – revel in the beauty of the Notre Dame Cathedral, gasp with admiration at the city’s Central Post Office, and marvel at the stunning architecture of Saigon Opera House. Ready for something more low-key? Bến Thành Market and Jade Emperor Pagoda will get your cultural senses tingling.

End your perfect day with whatever tickles your tastebuds – don’t forget classics such as bánh mì, bánh xèo and cơm tấm! To really feel Ho Chi Minh City’s infectious energy, mount a motorbike like a local would and jump right into it – but be careful!

Hoi An

Hoi An is a bucket list-worthy destination for tourists who want to get the most out of Vietnam. As a former trading port, its narrow alleyways, old shophouses, and rickety pagodas will take you back in time! Not to mention, taking a leisurely cycle in the countryside (to My Son Sanctuary) or chilling at beachy hotspots like An Bang Beach—which is only 10 minutes away from town—will fill your days with lots of sun and food.

Speaking of food cravings: make sure to sample Cao Lau for some serious comfort grub vibes; savour Hoanh Thanh for a comforting soup sesh; and don’t miss out on taste testing the white rose dumplings (it’s ‘gram-worthy!).

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is quite literally like a dream – its majestic limestone mountains, crystal-clear rivers and lush paddy fields look like they were ripped straight out of an explorer’s wildest fantasy. It’s no wonder why it’s nicknamed ‘Ha Long Bay on Land.’ Ready to explore?

Set sail among the rock formations in a traditional paddleboat, test your mountaineering skills by scaling mystical peaks or take in Hang Mua’s breathtaking panoramas. And if you’re feeling particularly daring, join a sampan crew to seek out some local wildlife – just watch out for those Vietnamese crocodiles!

When you need a break from all that adventuring, explore this area’s ancient capital. A leisurely stroll through Ninh Binh will merge history with tranquillity as you observe its sacred structures and peaceful pagodas.

Nha Trang

Nestled in the south on a stunning stretch of coastline, you’ll have plenty of ways to soak up some serious sun and pamper yourself. Think snorkelling around stunning islands, delicious seafood feasts and why not live large with a day full of water sports? But if relaxation is more your jam – don’t worry! Wander off to one of the peaceful fishing villages or riverside restaurants for a chilled-out day.

For an adventure on the seas, hop aboard one of the day trips and explore the amazing Nha Trang Bay as well as neighbouring islands like Monkey Island, Hon Mun Island and Yen Island – which offer some serious insta-worthy views!

Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc isn’t just a flashy “Pearl Island” – sure, its glittering beaches are swoon-worthy, but there’s so much depth beyond that.

Let loose with the mountains, waterways, waterfalls and caves that make Phu Quoc such a rad tropical hideaway!

Going for a beach vibe? head down to Long Beach for some sun and fun. For those looking for something a little more exclusive, check out the hidden gems of Gah Dau and Bai Thom.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the island’s fishing and agriculture industries or dive into its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Heck, you can even take advantage of the locally-sourced fish sauce and pepper, or pick up a few pearls right off the ocean floor!

So if you want to live it up in luxury for a bit, well, who wouldn’t? But here’s an insider tip: take at least one day out of the itinerary to dig into all Phu Quoc has to offer. Take a dip in the crystal clear waters by day and marvel at the starry sky by night – you won’t regret it.

Before you go…

If you’re looking to have the time of your life in Vietnam, make sure you get your financials all sorted out before you jet-set off.

The last thing you want when there for the sights, is to be worrying about money transfers. Here’s where Instarem come in.

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*Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with products or vendors mentioned.