Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination. According to The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, there were more foreign visitors in the first half of 2023 than in the whole of the previous year, and it’s easy to see why.
With its breathtaking scenery, white sandy beaches, rich cuisine and bustling cities, Vietnam has something to offer everyone. Here are just some of the reasons why holidaymakers are choosing it for their next getaway.
The Landscape
Vietnam tours are a great way to appreciate the country’s magnificent landscape, taking in its verdant paddy fields, vibrant cities, historical towns and dramatic coastline. The landscape of Vietnam is as diverse as its history and population, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
The Food
Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, colourful, and filled with flavour. From the world-famous noodle soup, Pho and the country’s famous sandwich, Banh Mi, to street food like Bun Cha or the regional Banh Bao Vac (white rose dumpling) from North Vietnam. Vietnamese food is also great value for money, whether bought from a street food cart or at a sit-down restaurant.
Stunning Beaches
With more than 3,000 km of coastline, beach lovers are spoiled for choice in Vietnam. Nha Trang is a popular hotspot amongst both tourists and locals thanks to its 6 km of white-sand beaches and safe swimming. You can also go snorkeling amongst coral reefs or take a boat trip out to one of Vietnam’s tropical islands.
The Capital
Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi can feel chaotic to travelers on arrival, because of its busy roads and packed streets but beyond the hubbub, lies a charming, historic city with lots to offer. A trip to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will help you learn more about the country’s rich, diverse history. You’ll also want to check out the world-famous Hanoi Train Street, the Temple of Literature, and Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the heart of the city.
National Parks
Vietnam’s stunning national parks are one of its biggest draws. There are 34 national parks across the country, encompassing lowland forests, dramatic caves, mountain peaks and jungles, to name but a few.
The Ba Be National Park has three interlinked lakes surrounded by forested hills and is perfect for tourists looking to get away from the hustle and bustle.
For visitors looking for a little more adventure, the dramatic Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage listed site and one of Vietnam’s most popular spots for caving. Its huge caverns are home to a dazzling display of stalactites and stalagmites.
The park’s most renowned caverns are the Son Doong Cave, which is the world’s largest cave, The Paradise Cave and the Tu Lan Cave with its cavern river system. Be sure to visit outside of Vietnam’s rainy season (October through December) when many caves are closed to the public.
