5 ideas for guided tours in Vietnam

• Sapa

  Nestled in the mountains of northwest Vietnam, Sapa captivates travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes and authentic encounters.

  Located in the Lao Cai province near the Chinese border, this destination is a natural treasure. You’ll discover terraced rice fields, ethnic villages, and off-the-beaten-path panoramas.

  1. Sapa Market
  Begin your journey at the vibrant Sapa Market, where the Hmong, Dao, and Tay minorities gather. Here, you’ll find handicrafts, textiles, and local products while uncovering unique traditions.

  2. Mount Fansipan
  Known as the “Roof of Indochina,” this summit rises to 3,143 meters. Accessible by cable car or for the adventurous, by hiking, it offers spectacular views of mist-shrouded mountains.

  3. Muong Hoa Valley Terraces
  The rice terraces in Muong Hoa Valley change colors with the seasons, creating a fascinating display. A trail takes you through the terraces and lets you visit authentic hamlets.

  4. Ta Phin Village
  Located 15 kilometers from Sapa, Ta Phin Village is home to the Red Dao community. Discover medicinal herb baths, embroidered textiles, and serene landscapes.

  5. Cat Cat Village
  Easily accessible from Sapa, this picturesque village features traditional houses, waterfalls, and everyday scenes of Hmong culture. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll.

• Hoi An

  Close to the famous Da Nang beach resort, Hoi An enchants visitors with its diverse architecture and timeless charm.

  The old town is filled with Japanese, Chinese, and French-style houses. Its pagoda-shaped covered bridge, illuminated by lanterns at night, spans the Hoai River, creating a magical atmosphere.

  The pedestrian streets lined with wooden temples, boutiques, and tailors offer a unique allure. At the central market, explore spices, seafood, and traditional crafts.

  For a different experience, take a boat ride on the river, especially at sunset. You can also explore Cam Kim Island by bike, with its rice paddies and small fishing villages.

  Finally, enjoy the sandy beaches like Cua Dai or An Bang, perfect for a day of relaxation. Don’t miss the Lantern Festival, a monthly event where the town lights up with thousands of floating lanterns.

• Inland Ha Long Bay

  Located in the Ninh Binh province, 100 kilometers south of Hanoi, the Inland Ha Long Bay is a true natural gem.

  Navigate its peaceful waters on small rowboats often steered by women. You’ll discover caves, karst peaks, and breathtaking landscapes.

  Boat trips typically start from Tam Coc or Trang An. While Tam Coc meanders between rice paddies and rock formations, Trang An takes you through mysterious caves and UNESCO-listed hidden valleys.

  By bike, explore the surrounding countryside and visit sites like Hang Mua Cave, accessible after 500 steps, or the Bích Động jade pagodas.

  Finally, dive into history at Hoa Lu, the former imperial capital, with temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le kings.

• Hue

  Hue, the former capital of Vietnam, is located along the “Perfume River” (Sông Hương). This city is filled with imperial treasures and immerses visitors in the country’s fascinating history.

  The Royal Citadel, the Imperial City, and the Forbidden Purple City form an impressive complex to explore, showcasing architectural refinement and beauty.

  Just outside the city, the imperial tombs line the river. Among them, the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc stands out with its serene gardens and ponds. Don’t miss the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, offering a stunning view of the river.

  Hue is also renowned for its imperial cuisine, with dishes like banh khoai or bun bo Hue. Take a bike ride to explore nearby villages such as Thuy Bieu, known for its pomelos, or Thanh Tien, famous for its handmade paper flowers.

• Ho Chi Minh City

  Saigon, as it was known before 1975, is now a vibrant metropolis where modernity and history harmoniously coexist.

  Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about its tumultuous past, then explore historical temples like the Jade Emperor Pagoda or the Quan Am Pagoda in Cholon, the city’s Chinatown.

  French colonial influences are evident in landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House.

  For a local immersion, head to bustling markets like Ben Thanh or Binh Tay. Finally, escape to the Botanical Garden and Zoo for a tranquil break surrounded by greenery.

  Each district of Ho Chi Minh City has its own identity:
  – District 1: The historical and modern heart of the city.
  – Cholon: Traditional Chinese quarter.
  – Thao Dien: Known for its trendy cafés and boutiques.

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