If you are researching a Vietnam adventure and are not sure which are the must visit locations you should check out then our list will help you decide.
These locations are among some of the most popuar places to travel, and are also great value for money with lots of budget backpacker hostels and accommodation.
Getting Around
We recommend at east 2 weeks in Vietnam, athough if you have more time this is better as your can travel at a more relaxed pace.
If you are wondering how to get around, bus is the cheapest option although distances are long. View how to survive sleeper buses in Vietnam.
Trains are fast and overnight sleeper trains can save you money on accommodartion. If you are short on time you can also fly between some of the larger destinations.
Top Places to Add to Your Vietnam Backpacking Itinerary
Check out our top 8 places to visit when travelling Vietnam which you must see.
1. Ha Long Bay
You can't go backpacking in Vietnam and not see Ha Long Bay!
This is one of the most spectacular places to see in south east Asia and the world with limestone rocks sticking up out of the water which looks really amazing.
There are lots of boat tours including overnight stays which you can join, we recommend a two day trip with a stop over in Cat Ba Island - search out a local karaoke bar here and you will have lots of fun.
View tours in Vietnam where you can search lots of Ha Long Bay trips.
2. Sapa
Sapa is located in Northern Vietnam and on a trek or trip here you will see really beautiful rice fields. The trips here can be arranged in advance or in most places like Hanoi. The journey itself is a lot of fun where you will see really rural areas and villages, seeing the way life really is away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
3. Ho Chi Minh City
If you want to learn more about the Vietnam war we recommend visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Museum. Here you will be able to read more about this brutal conflict which ravages this country and at the museum there are lots of old tanks, helicopters and war memorabilia.
At the Cu Chi Tunnels you can go underground and see how the Vietcong used to live, the tunnels are tiny and so if you are claustrophobic it might not be a good idea to enter. You can also fire an AK-47 rifle here in a safe shooting range.
This city is also a popular destination for people looking to volunteer in Vietnam - there are so many rewarding programs here.
4. Nha Trang
We recommend to arrive in the early morning to the beautiful coastal city of Nha Trang.
You will have time to explore the city, from indulging in the local hot mud springs, taking a cycle tour of the city or escaping to Vin Pearl Island for snorkelling via the longest cable car in Vietnam or just relaxing on the pristine beaches!
Nha Trang is a popular beach destination on the East Coast of Vietnam, if you are travelling through the country you will more than likely pass through here. This is also a great place to learn to scuba dive in Vietnam.
5. Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is an impressive vast waterway stretching over 50,000km. Expect to see lots of rural villages, fishermen, floating villages and relaxed lifestyles. There are lots of tours and trips available by land (car / bike) or we recommend taking a boat tour.
6. Hoi An
Hoi Ann is a popular stop off for most tourists and its easy to see why.
Expect a beautiful little town with cobbled streets and lots of great places to eat tasty Vietnamese cuisine. You can easily walk around or just relax by the river.
This is also a great place to get shoes or clothes made, shops here can design and produce some amazing items at low prices and remember to barter down prices or shop around for the best deals.
7. Phu Quoc Island
Located in Southern Cietnam Phu Quoc is a hidden paradise, so many islands in South-East Asia are bustling and busy with thousands of tourists and its advised to visit Phu Quoc before it gets too popular. A new airport is planning for this island and so this is expected to change this paradise island for ever. You can catch a boat taxi to the island and expect some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam here.
8. Hanoi
Hanoi's old French colonial past is still visible in its Parisian style architecture, while many buildings also demonstrate the modern side of a new emerging Asia. The Red River dominates the immediate landscape, running right through the city to the Gulf of Tolkin, offering some spectacular views along the way.
The Hoan Kiem Lake is also a key landmark in the city and is surrounded by fine eateries and grand hotels. The main attraction, however, remains the city’s old quarter, the heartbeat of Hanoi. Filled with original architecture, lots to see and do and hundreds of shops and restaurants. If you would like to stay a little longer in Hanoi check out our TEFL jobs in Vietnam.
