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Vietnam Tours
Activities in Vietnam
Our Top Destinations in Vietnam
Our Best Vietnam Trips
Vietnam Tours with Exodus
Nguyen Van Lam – Exodus Leader
In Your Words – Vietnam
Top 5 Vietnam Destinations
Vietnam beckons travelers with varied interests, drawing in outdoor enthusiasts, history aficionados, food lovers, and culture seekers alike. With every step taken, dish tasted, and conversation engaged in, Vietnam unravels its extraordinary story. As you plan your adventure, here are some of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations to add to your can’t-miss list.
1. Ha Long Bay
Nestled in the northeast, this UNESCO-designated haven boasts emerald waters, striking limestone mountains, enchanting caves, and rainforest-topped islands. Whether cruising amidst the incredible karsts or exploring by sea kayak, the mesmerizing seascape of Ha Long Bay promises to captivate your imagination.
2. Ho Chi Minh City
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the economic and cultural heart of the Vietnam. Stroll through French colonial landmarks like the Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, delve into the country’s history at the War Remnants Museum, shop at Ben Thanh Market, and savor banh mi and pho at Ben Nghe Street Food Market.
3. Mekong Delta
Offering a glimpse into traditional river lives, the Mekong Delta, known as the rice bowl of Vietnam, is home to bustling floating markets that truly have to be experienced to be believed. Journey by sampan, a traditional shallow-water boat still used by locals, and sample some of the fruit, sugar cane, coconuts, and more along the riverbanks.
4. Hanoi
Stepping into Hanoi feels like entering a living museum, where past and present coexist in harmonious chaos. Historical sites like the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison offer insights into Vietnam’s rich history, while colonial-era buildings, ancient temples, and communist monuments stand side by side. As the sun sets, Hanoi transforms into a culinary paradise with lively street food vendors.
5. Sapa
A remote town in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains, where emerald rice terraces cascade down the mountainsides, shrouded in a mystical veil of mist, creating an otherworldly landscape that’s both serene and breathtaking. This region is home to a rich tapestry of ethnic minority cultures, each with its own traditions and lifestyles. The town itself offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with colorful markets, cozy cafes, and colorful streets.
Dorie Barton Vietnam AdventureThis was a thoroughly wonderful adventure that exceeded my expectations. We had a lovely group of folks to travel with and a fantastic tour leader.
James Levack Cycle Indochina & AngkorFirst trip of a lifetime – it won’t be the last
Where is Vietnam?
Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia, bordered by China to the north, Laos to the northwest, Cambodia to the southwest, and the South China Sea to the east.
What currency does Vietnam use?
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is widely used, but major cities and tourist areas also accept credit cards.
FAQs on Vietnam Tours
Is Vietnam safe?
Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. The country has a low crime rate, and violent crime against tourists is rare. However, like any destination, it’s essential to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places where petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur. Travelers are advised to take standard precautions, like safeguarding valuables, being cautious in unfamiliar areas, and paying attention to local advice.
Vietnam is also known for its warm and welcoming people, and tourists often find the locals to be friendly and hospitable. As with any travel, it’s beneficial to stay informed about the local customs and adhere to cultural norms to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. Additionally, it’s advisable to check for any travel advisories or updates before planning your Vietnam trips, as situations can change.
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Vietnam’s best time to visit varies by region due to its diverse weather. In the northern mountains, like Sapa, the dry season is October to March, while central areas, including Hoi An, enjoy dry weather from January to August. Southern Vietnam, with cities like Ho Chi Minh, has a warm climate year-round but experiences a distinct wet season from May to November. Travelers should consider these regional variations when planning activities and destinations.
How many days do you need in Vietnam?
Exodus offers action-packed tours to Vietnam spanning 10 to 14 days, each tailored to specific activities. These durations allow ample time to explore the diverse landscapes, delve into the rich history, and savor the vibrant culture of Vietnam. We recommend opting for the longer durations to ensure a comprehensive adventure, providing you the opportunity to experience everything this dynamic country has to offer.
Where is the best place to go on my first visit to Vietnam?
Many of our Vietnam guided tours allow you to get a taste of a few different regions, making them perfect for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike. Some great options include:
Highlights of Vietnam
On this ten-day tour, you’ll explore the underground rivers and caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, cruise through Halong Bay, explore Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City, sample world-renowned cuisine, and more.
Hidden Vietnam
A full immersion into Vietnamese life, this tour includes the opportunity to meet and stay with families in Ta Phin, a hill village in Sapa, and in Cam Kim Island, where a local family teaches the preparation of a traditional rice noodle dish.
Cycling Vietnam
Ride from Ho Chi Minh City in the south to Hanoi in the north on one of the best biking tours in Vietnam, an exhilarating two-week ride that takes you through colorful villages, rice terraces, and jungle roads, with stops in Hoi An and Halong Bay.
What is Vietnam known for?
Vietnam is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cuisine, with iconic dishes like pho and banh mi. The country’s history, marked by the Vietnam War, is reflected in sites like the War Remnants Museum. Visitors can explore breathtaking natural wonders, from the terraced fields of Sapa to the limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Vietnamese hospitality, ancient temples, traditional festivals, and craft villages further contribute to the country’s unique charm.
Insider guide…
Our local leaders are passionate about the places they visit, and their knowledge gives guests unique insight that is impossible to get elsewhere. Cong Nguyen has been leading tours nine his home country for 10 years. Here’s his insider guide to Vietnam:
“My favourite food is green mango salad. People normally eat them sweet and ripe, but in Vietnam we pick them green to make a savoury salad. And there’s beautifully fresh seafood – I show my group how to steam fish in banana leaves. The Hanoi water-puppet show is very colourful with lions, dragons, unicorns, live music and folk songs. It was traditional entertainment for villagers when the rice flooded. The stories are acted out using a pool of water as the stage. Fantastic silk is made here, so you can find beautiful scarves to buy. Or you can bring an item or picture to copy, you can get clothes tailor-made in Hoi An.”
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