Vietnam Holidays: The Complete UK Traveller's Guide

Why Visit Vietnam?

Vietnam offers an incredible balance of natural beauty, cultural heritage and modern comforts. Unlike many destinations where you'll spend most of your holiday in one city or region, Vietnam encourages you to explore. Travelling from north to south reveals changing landscapes, local traditions and regional cuisines that make every stop feel like a new destination.

Here are just a few reasons why Vietnam continues to attract travellers from around the world:

• Spectacular mountains, rice terraces and coastline
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Rich history spanning thousands of years
• Warm and welcoming hospitality
• World-renowned street food
• Luxury experiences at excellent value.
• Beautiful beaches and tropical islands
• A wide variety of experiences for every type of traveller

From peaceful countryside to energetic cities, Vietnam offers something for everyone.

Top Places to Visit in Vietnam

Hanoi

Vietnam's capital is where many journeys begin. Blending centuries of history with modern energy, Hanoi is famous for its French colonial architecture, bustling markets and vibrant café culture.

Top attractions include:

• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Temple of Literature
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Spend time wandering the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, where you'll discover hidden cafés, local markets and some of the country's best street food.

Ha Long Bay

No Vietnam itinerary is complete without visiting Ha Long Bay. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this breathtaking bay is home to thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald-green waters.

The best way to experience Ha Long Bay is on an overnight cruise, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and activities without feeling rushed.

Popular experiences include:

• Kayaking through hidden lagoons
• Exploring limestone caves
• Swimming in secluded bays
• Watching sunrise and sunset from the deck
• Enjoying freshly prepared seafood

A cruise through Ha Long Bay is often the highlight of a Vietnam holiday.

Ninh Binh

Often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land", Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam's most scenic destinations. Towering limestone cliffs, peaceful rivers and lush rice fields create landscapes that feel almost untouched.

Don't miss:

• Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
• Tam Coc boat ride
• Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Mua Cave viewpoint

Ninh Binh is ideal for travellers looking to experience Vietnam's natural beauty away from larger tourist crowds.

Hoi An

Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most charming destinations. Famous for its colourful lanterns, riverside cafés and beautifully preserved Ancient Town, it's a place where history and culture come together effortlessly.

While you're here, be sure to:

• Walk through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town
• Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Shop for tailor-made clothing
• Join a Vietnamese cooking class
• Take an evening boat ride on the Thu Bon River

The town's relaxed atmosphere makes it a favourite for couples, families and photographers alike.

Da Nang

Located on Vietnam's central coast, Da Nang offers the perfect mix of beaches, city life and nearby attractions. It's also an excellent base for exploring Hoi An and Hue.

Top attractions include:

• My Khe Beach
• Marble Mountains
• Ba Na Hills
• Golden Bridge

Whether you want to relax by the sea or explore cultural landmarks, Da Nang offers plenty of options.

Ho Chi Minh City

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's largest city and commercial centre. Fast-paced and energetic, it offers a fascinating contrast to the country's quieter towns.

Must-visit attractions include:

• War Remnants Museum
• Ben Thanh Market
• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
• Saigon Central Post Office
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street

It's also one of the best places to experience Vietnam's modern dining scene and nightlife.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta offers a completely different perspective of Vietnam. Here, life revolves around rivers, canals and floating markets, providing a glimpse into the country's rural traditions.

Popular activities include:

• Boat cruises through the waterways
• Visiting floating markets
• Cycling through local villages
• Exploring tropical fruit orchards
• Sampling authentic southern Vietnamese cuisine

For travellers who enjoy slower, more immersive experiences, the Mekong Delta is well worth including in your itinerary.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?

Thanks to its long north-to-south geography, Vietnam can be visited throughout the year. However, weather conditions vary between regions, so the best time to travel depends on the destinations included in your itinerary.

If you're planning to explore multiple regions, February to April generally offers the most comfortable weather across much of the country.

Internal Link: For a detailed seasonal breakdown, read our Best Time to Visit Vietnam: A Month-by-Month Guide, where we cover weather patterns, festivals and travel tips for every month of the year.

Experiences You Shouldn't Miss

Beyond its famous attractions, Vietnam offers countless experiences that help you connect with the country's culture and traditions.

Consider adding these to your itinerary:

• Spend a night cruising through Ha Long Bay.
• Watch the lanterns illuminate Hoi An after sunset.
• Take a traditional sampan boat ride in Ninh Binh.
• Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City.
• Visit the Imperial City of Hue.
• Relax on the beaches of Phu Quoc.
• Join a Vietnamese cooking class.
• Discover local markets with a food guide.
• Enjoy coffee at a traditional Vietnamese café.

These experiences can easily be included in a tailor-made itinerary, allowing you to explore Vietnam at a pace that suits your interests.

Discover Vietnam Through Its Food

Vietnamese cuisine is one of the country's biggest attractions. Fresh herbs, fragrant spices and locally sourced ingredients create dishes that are both simple and full of flavour. Every region has its own culinary identity, making food an essential part of the travel experience.

Northern Vietnam is known for comforting classics like Pho and Bun Cha, Central Vietnam offers bold flavours and specialities such as Cao Lau and Mi Quang, while Southern Vietnam is famous for its sweeter dishes and vibrant street food culture.

Some dishes every traveller should try include:

• Pho, Vietnam's iconic noodle soup
• Banh Mi, a crispy baguette filled with fresh vegetables, herbs and your choice of filling
• Bun Cha, grilled pork served with rice noodles
• Goi Cuon, fresh spring rolls with prawns or vegetables
• Cao Lau, a signature noodle dish from Hoi An
• Banh Xeo, crispy Vietnamese pancakes
• Vietnamese Egg Coffee
• Traditional Vietnamese iced coffee

For a more authentic experience, consider joining a local food tour or cooking class. It's a fantastic way to learn about Vietnamese culture while discovering flavours you won't find anywhere else.

Practical Travel Tips for UK Travellers

Planning ahead will help you enjoy a smoother and more relaxing holiday.

Before travelling to Vietnam, keep these tips in mind:

Suggested Vietnam Itineraries

Vietnam offers plenty to explore, so the ideal itinerary depends on how much time you have available.

Why Book Your Vietnam Holiday with TTH Holidays?

Planning a multi-city holiday in Vietnam can be exciting, but it also involves coordinating flights, accommodation, transfers and sightseeing across different regions.

At TTH Holidays, we simplify the process by creating tailor-made itineraries that reflect your interests, budget and travel style. Instead of spending hours researching and comparing options, you can enjoy a carefully planned holiday designed by experienced travel specialists.

When you book with TTH Holidays, you'll benefit from:

• Tailor-made itineraries created around your preferences
• Carefully selected hotels and resorts
• Expert destination recommendations
• Seamless transport arrangements
• Flexible holiday planning
• Family-friendly and luxury travel options
• Dedicated customer support before and during your trip

Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family adventure or a longer journey across Southeast Asia, we'll help you make the most of every moment.