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Vietnam fascinatingly combines vibrant cities, spectacular natural wonders and relaxed coastal towns – and it is precisely this diversity that awaits you in this guide. From cultural highlights in the north to a luxurious cruise through one of Asia’s most beautiful bays to beaches and charming old towns in central Vietnam: this route combines adventure, relaxation and authentic impressions. At the end of December, I travelled through a small part of this diverse country and am delighted to share my impressions with you.
In the following, I will take you through the individual stops – clearly structured, with personal recommendations, selected hotels and practical tips for a stylish and varied trip through Vietnam.
Hanoi – Vietnam’s vibrant capital city
Hanoi is the perfect starting point for a trip through Vietnam. The capital combines colonial charm, centuries-old history and street life that could hardly be more intense. Between honking scooters, steaming soup kitchens and French-influenced architecture, a city unfolds that challenges – and inspires.
What you should see
A stroll through the old town is essential. Small boutiques, workshops and cafés line the 36 alleys of the historic district. Here, daily life takes place on the streets – direct, unfiltered and full of energy.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the country’s most important political landmarks. The atmosphere is respectful and calm – a stark contrast to the bustling rest of the city.
Not far away is the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s oldest university. The courtyards, pavilions and stone steles tell of a centuries-old tradition of education and at the same time offer a soothing respite.
The legendary Train Street is a special experience. Several times a day, a train passes just a few centimetres from the houses here. While café guests move their cups aside, the narrow alleyway is transformed for a brief moment into a stage of metal and movement – spectacular and surreal at the same time.
Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay – Cruise through Vietnam’s natural wonders
A trip to North Vietnam is not complete without a cruise through the world-famous Halong Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the most spectacular natural panoramas in Southeast Asia – thousands of limestone cliffs rise like sculptures from the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.
Less well known, but just as impressive, is the quieter Lan Ha Bay. It is precisely this combination of iconic scenery and secluded bays that makes a multi-day cruise here so special.
Why a 2-day cruise is worthwhile
Instead of a hectic day trip, I deliberately chose to stay overnight on board. A 5-star cruise with a private balcony and bathtub not only offered comfort, but above all time – and that is precisely what is priceless in this landscape.
As day boats return in the afternoon, it becomes noticeably quieter towards evening. The light softens, wisps of mist rise between the rocks, and suddenly the bay belongs almost entirely to nature once again.
Highlights of a Halong Bay cruise
- Sunrise on deck with views of the karst formations
- Kayaking through hidden lagoons
- Swimming in secluded bays
- Sunsets between dramatic rock formations
- Squid fishing in the evening
- Full board on board
Temperatures are pleasantly mild, especially in the winter months at the end of December. The slightly hazy air gives the landscape an almost mystical atmosphere – ideal for impressive photographs.
Da Nang & Hoi An – Beach, spirituality and lantern magic
After the intense impressions of the north, the atmosphere changes noticeably as soon as you arrive in central Vietnam. Da Nang seems more modern, more spacious, more airy. Wide streets, a seemingly endless coastline and a relaxed dynamic characterise the cityscape. At the same time, Hoi An, one of the most charming old towns in Southeast Asia, is only a short drive away – a fascinating contrast between the present and history. This region is ideal for combining culture, nature and relaxation in style.
Da Nang – coastal city with a vision
The heart of the city is the kilometre-long My Khe Beach. Fine sand, gentle waves and a surprising amount of space even in the high season make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. Especially in the early morning, when locals jog, swim or practise Tai Chi, a calm, almost meditative atmosphere unfolds here. Unfortunately, the weather was not on our side, so we couldn’t spend a day at the beach, but Da Nang is the perfect beach destination for me.
The Marble Mountains are a scenic highlight. The five hills of marble and limestone rise dramatically from the plain and are home to caves, pagodas and viewpoints with sweeping views of the coast and city. The climb is well worth it – not only for the view, but also for the spiritual atmosphere inside the caves.
The path continues further up to Son Tra Mountain, better known as Monkey Mountain. Up here, it becomes quieter, greener and more pristine. Between the jungle vegetation and the coastal panorama, an impressive view of the South China Sea opens up. There are numerous wild monkeys on site that you can observe, but you should not get too close to them, as they can become aggressive. It is best to take a taxi there first thing in the morning.
Hoi An – Vietnam’s most romantic old town
Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feels like it’s from another era. Yellow colonial facades, dark wooden balconies and hundreds of colourful lanterns characterise the townscape. My insider tip: take a lamp-making course for a small fee and you’ll have a souvenir you made yourself. It’s also a great activity for rainy weather.
In the evening, when the sun sets and the lanterns begin to glow, an almost cinematic backdrop emerges. Cafés fill up, small boats drift across the river, and the warm light bathes the alleys in golden tones.
Hoi An is a culinary paradise: fresh herbs, regional specialities such as Cao Lau or White Rose Dumplings, and a café culture that is perfect for long afternoons. The tailors in Hoi An are also well known, but we had the impression that you can find higher quality options in Hanoi.
Cuisine in Vietnam – aromatic, fresh and diverse
Vietnamese cuisine thrives on freshness and balance. Herbs, lime, fish sauce and delicate spices characterise dishes that are light yet intense in flavour. Classics such as pho – the famous noodle soup – or banh mi, the crispy baguette with hearty fillings, are an absolute must on any culinary to-do list.
Traditional northern cuisine dominates in Hanoi, while around Hoi An and Da Nang there are also many regional specialities and fresh seafood. In the evenings, numerous night markets invite you to sample local snacks and desserts. Prices are very low, even in modern restaurants, and the food is generally of excellent quality.
My personal tip: look for restaurants with good reviews on Google (be careful, as some reviews are paid for) and choose places where lots of locals eat – this is usually a reliable indicator of quality. I personally avoided traditional street food, especially during my pregnancy. Fortunately, Vietnam also offers many clean, modern restaurants where you can enjoy authentic cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Hotel recommendations – Stay in style in Vietnam
A successful trip depends on finding the right accommodation. Vietnam in particular offers excellent value for money – from charming boutique hotels to luxurious cruise ships. These establishments have proven particularly good on my route.
Hanoi – GM Premium Hotel
Located in the heart of the old town, the GM Premium Hotel is ideal for anyone who wants to explore Hanoi on foot while enjoying the best service. Modern rooms, stylish interiors and a rooftop terrace with views over the city’s rooftops create an elegant retreat after a busy day of sightseeing. The breakfast is unparalleled in its selection and quality. Particularly pleasant: the proximity to the most important sights and restaurants.
Halong & Lan Ha Bay – Staying overnight on the water
A high-quality 5-star cruise through Halong Bay, with an optional route through the quieter Lan Ha Bay, was undoubtedly one of the most exclusive experiences of the trip.
Spacious cabins with private balconies, stylish bathrooms with bathtubs and a sun deck with panoramic views ensure that you not only see the spectacular scenery, but also experience it. An overnight stay on board means fewer day boats, more peace and quiet, and more intense moments of nature.
It’s worth not skimping on this – comfort and route choice make a significant difference.
Da Nang – Mandila Beach Hotel Danang
Located directly on the famous My Khe Beach, this Mandila Beach Hotel Danang is ideal for combining beach time with excursions to Hoi An. Modern rooms, an infinity pool with sea views and short distances to the beach make it the perfect base for exploring central Vietnam.
If you value location, views and an excellent breakfast, you will find an outstanding balance between comfort and price here. I was absolutely delighted and would definitely book this hotel again.
Travelling to Vietnam – comfortable and easy to plan
The journey to Vietnam usually takes place via international hubs such as Doha, Dubai or Singapore with a connecting flight to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. For this route, it is best to start in the north – Hanoi is the ideal starting point for a combination of culture and nature.
After landing at Noi Bai International Airport, it takes about 35 to 45 minutes to reach the city centre, depending on traffic. A pre-arranged transfer or the use of a ride app such as Grab ensures a stress-free start. Especially after a long-haul flight, it is pleasant to be taken directly to the hotel instead of having to deal with negotiations or orientation. We always used Grab, but don’t forget to install a travel e-SIM, e.g. from Airalo, in advance so that you can get started right away.
If you want to combine several regions of Vietnam, you can take advantage of the well-developed domestic flight network. The route from Hanoi to Da Nang takes only about 90 minutes and saves valuable travel time compared to train or car. The connections are reliable, attractively priced and allow for efficient travel between northern and central Vietnam.
Important for planning:
- Check that your passport is valid for the duration of your trip.
- Clarify visa requirements in advance (depending on your nationality and length of stay).
- Book your first night’s accommodation.
With the right preparation, your trip to Vietnam will get off to a relaxed start – and that will set the tone for the days ahead, spent exploring big cities, natural wonders and the coast.
Conclusion & practical travel tips for Vietnam
Vietnam is a country of contrasts – and that is precisely where its strength lies. Between the vibrant energy of Hanoi, the majestic tranquillity of Halong Bay and the relaxed coastal atmosphere around Da Nang and Hoi An, a journey unfolds that harmoniously combines cultural depth and scenic diversity.
Why this route is particularly worthwhile
- Varied: city, natural wonders and beach combined in one trip
- Efficient planning: good domestic flights and organised transfers
- Ideal travel time at the end of December: pleasant temperatures in the north and sunny spells in central Vietnam
- Excellent value for money: especially for hotels and services
I will definitely come back, because the beautiful Sapa Valley and Phuo Quoc Island are still on my travel list.
Practical information
- Domestic flights save time and are attractively priced.
- For Halong Bay, a two-day cruise is recommended instead of a day trip.
- Use the Grab app for easy travel in cities.
- When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees.
- Start early: many sights are more atmospheric and less crowded in the morning.
Vietnam does not feel staged, but authentically alive. It is a destination for anyone who appreciates contrasts – and is ready to embark on an intense, multifaceted experience.
