Vietnam tour in 2024: The best itineraries for an unforgettable journey

Vietnam tour in 2024: The best itineraries for an unforgettable journey

Vietnam, with its mosaic of cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history, continues to captivate travelers from around the world. In 2024, the country is more attractive than ever as a destination for those seeking to explore distant lands safely.

However, choosing a travel itinerary can be a daunting task. Whether you’re a backpacker in search of off-the-beaten-path adventures, a family looking for enriching experiences suitable for all ages, or a traveler eager to discover the country’s iconic sites, Vietnam has much to offer. To assist you in your quest for the perfect journey, we have carefully crafted three exceptional itineraries, each designed to cater to a specific travel style.

In this article, we will take you on a classic journey covering Vietnam’s must-see highlights, a family trip combining leisure and cultural discoveries, and an off-the-beaten-path adventure for those yearning for a more authentic and less touristy experience.

Each of these itineraries has been thoughtfully curated to ensure you have an unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore the beauty and diversity of Vietnam from different perspectives.

So, pack your backpack, charge your camera, and let yourself be guided through the wonders of Vietnam in 2024. Let your journey begin here!

Feel free to contact us to arrange your trip in 2024.

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Why choosing Vietnam in 2024 ?

Beauty and diversity of landscapes

Vietnam is a country stretching 2,000 km with extraordinarily diverse landscapes. Numerous themed trips (hiking, cultural discovery, beach holidays, etc.) are possible due to the wide range of activities available.

For instance, if you prefer authenticity and hiking, you can trek in Northern Vietnam and climb mountains like Mount Fansipan, which reaches a height of 3,143 meters. You can also admire the stunning terraced rice fields during homestay immersion experiences.

Are you a fan of sunshine and coconut trees? Vietnam boasts a very long and beautiful coastline, and while its beaches may be less famous than those in Thailand, they are definitely worth visiting!

Lan Ha bay from above. Photo : Mathieu Arnaudet

A multi-cultural country

There are fifty-two ethnic groups currently living on Vietnamese soil. Visiting the Museum of Ethnography in Hanoi will teach you a lot about their histories and customs. You will then be ready to explore Northern Vietnam with your guide and meet local populations.

We strongly recommend spending at least one night with a host family from a minority ethnic group. This way, you will experience the interior of their home and gain a very good insight into how people live.

Hmong women at Bac Ha market. Crédit : Mathieu Arnaudet

A warm welcome

All ethnic groups in Vietnam have a culture of hospitality.

People will be proud to invite you for tea or even to share their meal with you. After years of war and political isolation, since the 1990s, the Vietnamese have seized their opportunity and opened up to the world.

Don’t be surprised if young people in the streets of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City approach you to chat – they often do this to improve their English! The people hosting you will go out of their way to make you feel comfortable!

In addition to a culture of hospitality, Vietnamese people also have a culture of sharing… This is evident during meal times where all dishes are placed on the table (or mat) at the same time. But it also extends to daily life; they won’t hesitate to share fruits or food with you even if you are strangers. So rest assured, you will be warmly welcomed in Vietnam!

Vietnamese cuisine, a delight

Vietnamese cuisine is known for being balanced and healthy, and this reputation is well-deserved!

Indeed, the ingredients used in Vietnamese cooking cover all the body’s needs, and their diversity ensures excellent nutrition.

Fresh vegetables adorn each dish, and sauces are rare, as are chili peppers. Don’t be afraid to eat at street “boui-boui” – that’s where the best food is found! These are dishes made in the traditional and family way, not industrially.

The Vietnamese population is also slim for another reason: their way of eating and sharing a meal. It has been proven that using chopsticks, eating different dishes, and sharing them significantly slows down the rate of absorption and allows for better digestion!

Don’t hesitate to try different typical dishes during your stay!

Looking for a particular dish? Our guide to Vietnamese dishes is perfect for you.

The typical Vietnamese soup, Pho

Still a very good value for money

Despite the rise in energy prices, Vietnam managed to control its inflation in 2023 (around 4%), which means that costs on the ground will be quite limited, especially as the euro has started to rise again: around 27,000 VND at the time of writing. This means that people coming from Europe will have quite strong purchasing power in 2024.

An attractive visa policy

In 2023, the government decided to implement a very attractive visa policy: visa exemption for a duration of 45 days for a large number of countries, including France, and a 90-day single or multiple-entry e-visa for others.

For French citizens, there is no question to ask: a simple passport valid for another 6 months at the time of entry into Vietnamese territory is sufficient to travel in the country!

If you want to know more, please refer to our comprehensive guide on the visa application procedure for Vietnam.

Vietnam, the asian safest country

The American travel guide Travel Off Path ranks Vietnam as the safest destination in Asia to visit this year.

“An exceptional country that has proven to be stable and safe for tourists. That’s Vietnam,” commented the magazine. To assess this, Travel Off Path cites data from Gallup’s Global Law and Order Index, the leading global consulting and analytics platform announced at the end of 2023. Vietnam received the highest ranking in Asia with a score of 92 out of 100, second only to Finland, Iceland, Kuwait, Luxembourg, and Norway. Nothing less.

So travel with peace of mind, but keep in mind our tips for traveling well in the country.

Now you know why you absolutely must visit Vietnam in 2024!

Which itinerary is right for you now? We will detail three: one for visiting the most beautiful destinations, another for traveling with family, and a final one for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

The best classic itinerary

For most of you, you will only visit Vietnam once. Therefore, it is preferable to prioritize seeing the most beautiful natural, cultural, and historical sites that the country has to offer. Below are our lists of the most beautiful destinations and the must-do activities during your trip.

Must-see destinations for your first trip

Below are the must-see destinations for your first visit to Vietnam:

Hanoi: The cultural and historical heart of Vietnam, offering a fascinating blend of the old and the new.

Halong Bay: A breathtaking natural landscape, perfect for a relaxing cruise and exploring natural caves.

Sapa: For those who love hiking and mountain landscapes, Sapa offers spectacular views of terraced rice fields and the opportunity to interact with various ethnic minorities.

Ecolodge in Sapa, North Vietnam

Hue: Former imperial capital, known for its historic citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas.

Hoi An: This historic town is famous for its well-preserved buildings, lantern-lit pedestrian streets, and unique atmosphere.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): A vibrant center of culture, history, and modernity. Visit its bustling markets, historical sites, and enjoy the thriving culinary scene.

Must-do activities in Vietnam

Halong Bay cruise: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site aboard a traditional junk boat. Admire the karst formations and emerald waters.

Culinary discovery in Hanoi: Taste authentic pho, egg coffee, and explore the street markets for an immersion into Vietnamese cuisine.

Cyclo ride in Hanoi: Traverse the Old Quarter on a cyclo, a unique and relaxed way to observe local life and admire colonial architecture.

Lantern making workshop in Hoi An: Participate in a workshop to create your own lantern, a symbolic souvenir of the city.

Visit to the Cu Chi tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City: Discover an important part of Vietnamese history by exploring this complex network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War.

Excursion in the Mekong Delta: Take a day trip to explore floating markets, lush orchards, and rural life along the waterways.

Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho

These activities and destinations are some of the most well-known ones that we recommend you include in your itinerary, here’s an example itinerary you can draw inspiration from.

Example of a classic 15-day itinerary from North to South Vietnam

Days 1-3: Hanoi

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi. City exploration, visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature.

Day 2: Stroll in the Old Quarter, visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, water puppet show.

Day 3: Full-day excursion to the Perfume Pagoda or Van Long Nature Reserve.

Days 4-5: Halong bay

Day 4: Departure for Halong Bay, boarding a cruise. Exploration of the islands, swimming, and kayaking.

Day 5: Continuation of the cruise, then departure for Ninh Binh, the inland Halong Bay.

Days 6-7: Ninh Binh

Day 6: Visit to the Tam Coc sites and boat ride.

Day 7: Visit to the Hoa Lu Citadel, ancient capital of Vietnam, then return to Hanoi.

Days 8-9: Hué

Day 8: Flight to Hue. Visit to the Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, and Dong Ba Market.

Day 9: Cruise on the Perfume River, visit to the Thien Mu Pagoda and craft villages.

Days 10-11: Hoi An

Day 10: Drive to Hoi An. Exploration of the old town, lantern workshops, and an evening stroll to admire the illuminated lanterns.

Day 11: Free time to explore Hoi An, relax on the beach, or take a Vietnamese cooking class.

Days 12-13: Ho Chi Minh City

Day 12: Flight from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City. Visit to Chinatown, the War Remnants Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Day 13: Excursion to the Mekong Delta, exploring the floating markets and orchards.

Days 14-15: Beach and departure

Day 14: Excursion to Mui Ne or Vung Tau beach for a day of relaxation.

Day 15: Return to Ho Chi Minh City, final shopping, and departure.

For more details about our classic tours, check out our dedicated page.

The best itinerary for families

Traveling with family requires careful planning to ensure that activities are entertaining and suitable for all ages. Here’s an itinerary that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation, perfect for an unforgettable family experience in Vietnam.

The best destinations for families

Here is a selection of destinations that we recommend for families with children:

Sa Pa: To immerse yourselves in cultural diversity, explore Sa Pa. Enjoy gentle hikes, discover local ethnic groups, and marvel at breathtaking landscapes.

Hanoi: A city where history meets modernity. Visit the Museum of Ethnology for an educational day out, and Ho Tay Water Park for some summer fun (during the hottest months).

Da Nang: With its beaches, famous Dragon Bridge, and Sun World Ba Na Hills amusement park, Da Nang offers entertainment and relaxation for the whole family.

Phu Quoc Island: An ideal destination for families seeking tranquil beaches, theme parks, and snorkeling activities.

View from the cable car, Phu Quoc

Best activities for families

Here are some activities that your family might enjoy:

Exploring the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang: A national park offering thrilling adventures with visits to spectacular caves and family-friendly hikes.

Cultural workshops in Hoi An: Participate in lantern-making or Vietnamese cooking workshops, fun and educational activities for children.

Water parks and beaches in Nha Trang: Enjoy water parks, perfect for a day of relaxation, and beaches for activities like snorkeling or building sandcastles.

Educational visit to Ho Chi Minh City: Discover Vietnamese history and culture through interactive museums and historical sites like the War Remnants Museum (for teenagers).

Example of one 15-day tour for families

Days 1-3: Hanoï

Explore the city, visit the Museum of Ethnology, take a cyclo ride around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Day trip to the Perfume Pagoda or Van Long Nature Reserve for a nature and cultural experience.

Days 4-6: Ha Long – Ninh Binh

Cruise in Ha Long Bay, with activities suitable for children.

Exploration of Ninh Binh, often called the “Inland Ha Long Bay”, with a boat ride in Tam Coc.

Days 7-9: Da Nang – Hoi An

Visit Sun World Ba Na Hills in Da Nang, then relax on the beaches.

Explore Hoi An, with its lantern workshops and laid-back atmosphere.

Days 10-12: Ho Chi Minh City – Mékong delta

Explore Ho Chi Minh City, with a day dedicated to museums and the historic district.

Excursion to the Mekong Delta, a unique experience of river life.

Days 13-15: Phu Quoc island

Relax on the beaches of Phu Quoc, enjoy water activities, and visit Vinpearl Land water park.

Free day to enjoy the beach or explore the island before departure.

Discover more family-friendly tours on our dedicated family tours page.

Best itinerary for an off-beaten tracks tour

This itinerary is designed for travelers seeking to explore lesser-known areas of Vietnam, immersing themselves in authentic experiences and stunning natural landscapes.

Destination worth discovering

Lan Ha bay

The Lan Ha Bay is the little sister of Halong Bay, the area located around Cat Ba Island. While the main Halong Bay has lost some of its charm today – hosting only large boats – Lan Ha Bay still maintains an authentic aspect. In this bay, you can still find fishing villages and small junks.

Hoang Su Phi

Hoang Su Phi is a district still unknown in the province of Ha Giang, because of its difficult access. But thanks to our private tours, you can easily explore this beautiful region where some of the most beautiful and spectacular terraced rice fields are located. There are a few eco-lodges, but the accommodation conditions with local families are still quite basic.

Mu Cang Chai

Mu Cang Chai, in the Yen Bai province, is the favorite playground for photographers when it comes to rice harvesting season! Indeed, the district is home to stunning terraced rice fields that would be a shame not to capture. We often suggest combining a visit to Mu Cang Chai with Nghia Lo, a very beautiful valley along the way.

Ba Be lake

Lake Ba Be is located on the way to Ha Giang, and for those who are planning a trip to this region, Ba Be is a beautiful first stop. Here, you can hike and navigate on this magnificent freshwater lake.

Pu Luong

For those who don’t have time to visit the northern mountains or who are not traveling during the right season for rice (between November and May), we recommend visiting the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Located at a lower altitude and in a highly fertile area, villagers harvest rice twice a year. This increases your chances of seeing stunning landscapes.

Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon is certainly not on the classic itineraries of travel guides, but if you’re considering a beach vacation away from international tourists, Quy Nhon will be your choice. It is indeed a beach resort primarily known to Vietnamese people who enjoy relaxing there and savoring seafood.

An Giang

An Giang is a province in the Mekong Delta that includes the Chau Doc region. Here, you are at the crossroads of Cham, Kinh, and Khmer cultures. You can visit very colorful Khmer pagodas and even mosques! Not to mention the stunning landscapes: rice fields, floating villages, and flooded forests (such as the Tra Su Bird Sanctuary).

Con Dao island

What better way to end your trip than with a stay on a paradise island? Despite its 3,000 kilometers of coastline, Vietnam has only a limited number of islands. If you had to choose, you would have the choice between Phu Quoc and Con Dao Island. The latter is preferred if you seek peace and relaxation.

Authentic activities

Taking a cruise on a junk boat

While Halong Bay remains a must-do during your trip to Vietnam, you still have the opportunity to explore it in an authentic way. We offer cruises on our junk boats in Lan Ha Bay, around Cat Ba Island. We invite you to moments of reverie and contemplation through our 2 or 3-day tours.

Our Four Season boat in Lan Ha bay, Vietnam

Mountains hiking

Northern Vietnam is a superb playground for all budding hikers. It is possible to organize short walks (from 1 to 3 days) or longer hikes of up to a week. Among the destinations that are perfect for hiking, we find Hoang Su Phi, Mu Cang Chai, or Pu Luong, all of which boast stunning terraced rice fields.

Staying with locals (homestay)

During your hikes in Northern Vietnam, you will have the opportunity to stay with locals. Tourism has developed over the past 20 years, and families from ethnic minorities have opened their doors to supplement their income. Thus, with the help of your guide who will act as an interpreter, you will be able to understand the customs of the various families – often from different ethnic groups – whom you will meet and with whom you will spend pleasant moments.

Homestay experience, Hoang Su Phi, North Vietnam

Visit ethnic markets

We will organize your hikes in the north so that you can attend an ethnic minority market. There are many in the north, and some are very well-known such as those in Bac Ha or Meo Vac. It’s a special moment that travelers greatly enjoy.

Market in Du Gia, Ha Giang.

Cooking class

Vietnam is, of course, known for its refined and flavorful cuisine. During your stay, you will have the opportunity either to opt for a food tour (for food enthusiasts) or to prepare a meal (for cooking enthusiasts). In Northern Vietnam, the families hosting you will be delighted to show you how they prepare meals. Other specific options are available in cities (especially in Hanoi). We recommend doing this at Tra Que in Hoi An, where you can go to the gardens to harvest organic fruits and vegetables.

Bun Bo Hué, typical dish

Visit a floating market

If the northern part of Vietnam has its ethnic markets, the Mekong Delta has its floating markets. With the development of road infrastructure and the Covid pandemic, floating markets are unfortunately not as vibrant and authentic as they used to be. But some are still worth a visit, like the one in Long Xuyen.

Breakfast time at Long Xuyen floating market

Example of an off-the-beaten-path 15 day tour in North Vietnam

Days 1-3: Hanoï

Exploration of the capital with a local touch, visiting less touristy neighborhoods.

Days 4-6: Hoang Su Phi

Trekking through the terraced rice fields and visiting ethnic villages. Overnight stay with locals for an immersive experience.

Days 7-9: Ha Giang

Explore the Ha Giang region, known for its stunning Ha Giang Loop. Travel on winding roads, discover remote villages, and enjoy spectacular viewpoints.

Days 10-11: Cao Bang

Head to Cao Bang, where you can admire the impressive Ban Gioc Waterfall and explore the surrounding caves. Enjoy the tranquil nature and stunning landscapes of this region.

Days 12-14: Lan Ha bay

Travel to Lan Ha Bay, a peaceful alternative to Halong Bay. Join a cruise, go kayaking, and explore secluded beaches. Overnight on a junk boat for a memorable experience.

Days 15: Back to Hanoï / End of the tour

Return to Hanoi for final shopping or sightseeing before departure

Explore more tours on our dedicated page for authentic tours.

All our best tips for preparing your trip to Vietnam in 2024

Planning a trip to Vietnam requires taking into account several factors to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. Here are key pieces of advice to consider:

Best time for visiting the 3 main regions

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Giang, Sapa): The best time is from September to December and from March to May, when the weather is generally clear and pleasant.

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang): Visit between February and May to avoid seasonal rains and enjoy comfortable temperatures.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): The dry season from December to April is ideal, with less precipitation and cooler weather.

Visa, vaccination and security

Visas: As mentioned earlier, a 45-day exemption for13 nationalities, and an e-visa for single or multiple entries for others.

Safety: Also mentioned at the beginning of this article: Vietnam is generally a safe country for travelers. However, exercise caution in crowded urban areas to avoid pickpocketing and adhere to local traffic safety regulations.

Vaccinations: Consult a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations, such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever, and ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date.

How to fully enjoy your experience in Vietnam ?

Rest and relaxation: Allocate time in quieter destinations such as the beaches of Phu Quoc or the mountains of Da Lat to unwind and rejuvenate.

Adventure: Include activities like trekking in Sapa, cycling in Hoi An, or exploring Lan Ha Bay by kayak for an adventurous experience.

Culture: Make sure to visit important cultural sites such as the Citadel of Hue, temples in Hanoi, and local markets for cultural immersion.

Taking these tips into account, your trip to Vietnam in 2024 can be a memorable experience, full of discoveries and pleasures. Good planning will allow you to make the most of what the country has to offer, while ensuring your comfort and safety.