Vietnam is a perfect destination for a budget-friendly road trip with friends. The country is known for its scenic beauty, delicious food, and friendly locals.
Fun fact: Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world.
Must try food: Pho is a must-try dish in Vietnam. It is a delicious noodle soup that is usually eaten for breakfast.
Must try beverage: Vietnamese iced coffee is a must-try beverage. It is made by pouring sweetened condensed milk and strong coffee over ice.
Best known for: Vietnam is best known for its stunning natural beauty, including Halong Bay, the Mekong Delta, and the beaches of Da Nang.
Good to know:
– Timezone: Indochina Time (UTC+7)
– Average temperature for March: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
– Average precipitation for March: 20-30mm (0.8-1.2in)
– Local currency: Vietnamese dong (VND)
Your example itinerary
Day 1-3: Hanoi
– Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple
– Try local specialties like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee at Cha Ca La Vong, Bun Cha Ta, and Cafe Giang
– Watch water puppet shows and traditional music performances at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre and Hanoi Opera House
– Explore the Old Quarter and Dong Xuan Market
– Rent a motorbike or take a guided tour to explore the surrounding countryside and visit Bat Trang Ceramic Village and Duong Lam Ancient Village
Day 4-6: Halong Bay
– Take a cruise or kayak through the limestone karsts and caves of Halong Bay
– Visit floating fishing villages and pearl farms
– Enjoy fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine on board
– Go squid fishing at night
Day 7-9: Ninh Binh
– Explore the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and Tam Coc-Bich Dong caves by boat or bike
– Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia
– Try local specialties like goat meat and rice crust at Ninh Binh Market
Day 10-12: Hue
– Visit the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the tombs of Nguyen Emperors
– Try local specialties like bun bo hue, banh khoai, and com hen at Hanh Restaurant, Lac Thien Restaurant, and Vy Da Restaurant
– Take a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit Thuy Bieu Village, where you can learn how to make incense and try local fruits