Travel in city Hanoi

There’s nowhere quite like Vietnam – a land of true contrasts, from the frenetic and fascinating capital of Hanoi to the idyllic rice terraces of mountainous Sapa. With so much to see in this beautiful country, it can be hard to know which places to visit. Here is our guide to the best cities in Vietnam.

The northern city of Hanoi may be the official capital of Vietnam, but it’s Ho Chi Minh City that draws the highest number of annual international visitors and no wonder, as Vietnam, among other advantages, is one of the most budget-friendly destinations. From exploring its past to marvelling at its new-found modernity, read our best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

The stunning karst pinnacles of Ha Long Bay are one of the jewels in Vietnam’s crown, but as Ron Emmons discovers, nearby Bai Tu Long Bay boasts the same beguiling scenery – without the crowds.

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Vietnamese food is distinct and unforgettable. Spread across street-side vendors and high-end restaurants, typical Vietnamese food tastes salty, sweet, sour and hot. Whether you fancy a lunchtime snack in Hanoi or want to check out the best restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnamese cuisine is some of the tastiest in all of Southeast Asia, so there's no need to wonder what the best food to eat in Vietnam is – we've got it covered.