One Week in Vietnam

Top Regions To Visit on a Trip to Vietnam

Vietnam can generally be divided into three regions: North, Central, and South.

Northern Vietnam

Often overlooked for the warmer southern coastlines, this region has its own charm. Not only is it home to the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, but it's also where you will find the country's unique rice terraces, bustling markets, and stunning bays.

Up north are mountainous regions, where towns like Sapa are located. Here, you'll meet people from several hill tribes eager to share their heritage.

Northern Vietnam is also known for Halong Bay, Mai Chau, and Ninh Binh.

Central Vietnam

The central region of Vietnam is a center for history, culture, and nature. The attractions here are incredibly diverse — you can revel in the centuries-old beauty of Hoi An by the riverside, explore the remnants of imperial Vietnam in Hue, or discover the deep caverns of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park that are about 400 million years old!

You can also learn about Vietnam's more recent history at the Vinh Moc Tunnels, an expansive underground network and a sanctuary for families hiding from American bombs during the war. Often compared to the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Vinh Moc Tunnels are unique, as they shed light on how violence and war affected innocent civilians.

Southern Vietnam

It's home to the rapidly developing city of Ho Chi Minh. The region also boasts the wonders of the Mekong Delta — an expansive ecosystem characterized by a maze of rivers and floating markets. 

Southern Vietnam has abundant turquoise water and white sand beaches, so take your pick. However, if you have a taste for adventure, check out Mui Ne, a famous spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing.

Touring Vietnam From South to North (or opposite)

The best way to tour Vietnam is to start at either the southern hub of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, or the northern capital city of Hanoi. 

• Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC): The first thing you might notice in HCMC is the buzz of the motorbikes as you go on a walking tour of the Ben Thanh market. At first, what looks like a glorified flea market opens up to reveal all sorts of Vietnamese culinary stalwarts like pho. Go in the morning to escape the crowds (and the heat!).
• Other highlights in HCMC include the War Remnants Museum (the exhibits may feel off-putting to many American travelers), the Cu Chi tunnel system, and the various historic hotels in the city center.
• Nha Trang: Heading north from HCMC, Nha Trang is a typical beach destination for tourists and locals alike. Enjoy a day cruise with opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. Remember to try fresh seafood, the specialty in this city by the sea.
• Hoi An: Our next stop is the historic city of Hoi An, with its labyrinth of ancient buildings and pathways. Historically rich, the city was influenced by the French, Japanese, and Chinese, which is apparent in the architecture and cuisine. 
• Search for the famous Hoi An noodles, Cao Lau, which can only be authentically enjoyed in this town. Many galleries and craft shops offer everything from custom-made shoes to vibrant oil paintings.
• Hue: A short drive brings you to Hue, the imperial capital of Vietnam. The Nguyen dynasty ruled from here before ceding power to the French in 1945. Explore the old, walled citadel and book a tour to visit the former demilitarized zone (DMZ) for a bit of war history.
• Hanoi: Your last stop is the capital of Hanoi. With its beautiful urban lakes and government seat, Hanoi is calmer relative to HCMC but still quite the metropolitan center in its own right. For history buffs, a visit to the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh is a must, where one can see the body of the former Vietnamese ruler lying in state. Also of interest are the Temple of Literature and One Pillar Pagoda. You can also plan a day visit to Mai Chau Valley from Hanoi.