By Nicole Brewer
Greetings globetrotters! I hope all has been well with you. I recently visited Vietnam for my winter break and I must say, I want to return!
Vietnam, a land of captivating contrasts and vibrant culture, has firmly established itself as a top destination for digital nomads and globetrotters alike. The recent Tet holiday (February 14-20, 2026) saw major cities and coastal destinations overflowing with tourists, solidifying Vietnam’s appeal. If you’re seeking an affordable, culturally rich, and naturally beautiful base in Southeast Asia, look no further. This guide will explore the best places to visit in Vietnam, offering insights tailored for globetrotters.
Hanoi: The Vibrant Capital and Cultural Heart
Hanoi, the capital, is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern dynamism. Start your visit Vietnam journey here, and you’ll quickly be mesmerized by its vibrant street culture like I was!
Exploring Hanoi’s Historic Old Quarter and Street Culture
Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with its 36 streets, is a must-see! Each street retains its historical character, organized by the products they traditionally sold. Wander through Hang Dau (shoes), Hang Ma (lanterns), Hang Bac (silver jewelry), and more. Don’t miss Hanoi’s famous train street, where trains pass within inches of buildings. Enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes and experience the neighborhood’s unique rhythm. This was totally one of my favorite experiences!
Hoan Kiem Lake, in the city center, is another essential stop. Stroll around the lake, especially on weekend evenings when traffic is banned. Visit Ngoc Son Temple, located on Jade Island, accessible via the Huc Bridge (Rising Sun Bridge). The temple offers spiritual insight and panoramic views.
Hanoi’s Culinary Excellence and Food Tourism
Hanoi is renowned for its culinary scene. The street food is authentic and delicious. Eat like a local: early mornings for noodles and sticky rice cakes, lunch for cơm bình dân (choose-your-own eateries), and evenings for hotpots and grilled specialties.
Bun Cha, a grilled pork and noodle dish, is a Hanoi specialty. Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously visited by Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain, is a pilgrimage destination. The “Obama Combo” includes bun cha, a fried seafood roll, and a Hanoi beer for about $5 USD. Another excellent option is Bun Cha Ta, located on “Coffee Street.”
Consider a private cooking class or a street food tour to delve deeper into Hanoi’s culinary scene. Don’t forget to try cà phê trứng (egg coffee), a unique Hanoi creation which was one of my faves!
Hanoi’s Historic and Cultural Attractions
- Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university, built in 1070.
- Imperial Citadel of Thong Long: The political center of Vietnam for 13 centuries.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, museum, stilt house, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Learn about Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
- Water Puppet Shows: A traditional Vietnamese art form.
- St. Joseph Cathedral: A neo-Gothic structure built during the French colonial period.
- Hanoi Opera House: Showcases stunning neo-classical French architecture.
Practical Information for Visiting Hanoi
Take a cyclo ride for an overview of the city. Enjoy the pedestrian-friendly zone around Hoan Kiem Lake on weekend evenings. Eat affordably at Banh Mi 25, where you can get a sandwich and smoothie for about $3 USD.
Da Nang: Coastal Beauty and Modern Development
Da Nang is a dynamic coastal city, balancing modernization with cultural heritage and natural beauty. It’s a favorite among digital nomads seeking urban convenience and natural charm. This is definitely one of the top places to visit in Vietnam. It was a total vibe and I see why so many expats are moving there. It has been shortlisted on my potential retirement destinations list.
Da Nang’s Iconic Landmarks and Natural Attractions:
- Dragon Bridge: A unique structure that breathes fire and water on weekends.
- My Khe Beach: Ranked by Forbes as one of the world’s most attractive beaches.
- Son Tra Peninsula: Features lush forests and the Linh Ung Pagoda with a 67-meter-high Quan Am Buddha statue.
Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge
Ba Na Hills, nestled in the mountains, offers year-round cool temperatures. The cable car system holds a Guinness World Record. The Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng) is a must-see (as long as you aren’t afraid of heights)! This 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge features two enormous hands that appear to support the structure. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Da Nang’s Culinary Scene and Local Food Culture
Da Nang has a distinctive culinary scene. Try Bún Bò Huế at Le Gia, a traditional soup from central Vietnam. Bún chả cá, a fish cake and noodle combination, is a Da Nang signature dish. Mi Quảng, another regional specialty, is served with unique variations. Consider a food tour by female motorbike drivers for a personalized experience.
Ha Long Bay and Limestone Wonders
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Southeast Asia’s most recognizable natural wonders. Thousands of limestone karsts rise from calm, jade-colored water. The bay was recently recognized as Vietnam’s first inter-provincial UNESCO World Heritage Site, expanding the designation to include the Cat Ba Archipelago.
The Experience of Ha Long Bay
Experience Ha Long Bay during early mornings or evenings. Take an overnight cruise to sail between islands, kayak into hidden lagoons, and sleep under the stars. Lan Ha Bay offers similar scenery with fewer crowds. Cat Ba Island combines limestone views with hiking and beach activities. Two-day, one-night cruises range from $140 to $275 USD per person, while three-day, two-night cruises span from $260 to $495 USD. I decided to go on the higher end for my overnight cruise with Doris Cruise lines. Feel free to use my Viator referral link.
Hanoi’s Incense Village: Authenticity and Tourism
The Quang Phu Cau incense village, near Hanoi, is popular with tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences. However, be aware that the colorful incense displays are often arranged specifically for photography. Entrance to these areas costs about $4 USD. Consider a guided tour for a more authentic experience. My guide was very knowledgeable and helpful with taking pics!
Practical Considerations for Extended Vietnam Travel
- Transportation: The Reunification Express train line connects Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Visa: The electronic visa system allows stays of up to 90 days.
- Accommodation: Hanoi studios rent for $250-$600 monthly. Da Nang offers more affordable options.
- Cost of Living: Street food meals cost $1-$2, local restaurants $2-$5, and Western-style dining $7-$15.
- Best Times to Visit: Northern Vietnam (March-May, September-November), Central Vietnam (April-August), Southern Vietnam (December-April).
- Safety: Vietnam is a relatively safe destination. I felt very safe there!
- A single-entry visa costs just $25 USD and typically processes within three business days. Multiple nationalities also benefit from visa-free entry periods.
These are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam. It offers an incredible blend of culture, affordability, and natural beauty, making it great both for digital nomads and globetrotters.
Have you been to Vietnam globetrotters? Is it on your list? If you need assistance with booking your tours and hotels freel to contact me at nicole.brewer@fora.travel! As always, happy globetrotting!