Tours

Hanoi is often the first or final stop on a journey through Vietnam – and what a memorable welcome or farewell it is. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cities of the former Indochina, Hanoi has undergone sweeping changes since Vietnam opened its doors to tourism. Yet, despite its evolution, the city retains a timeless charm that continues to captivate visitors.

Tree-lined boulevards cut through elegant embassy districts, while in the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleys comes alive with the aroma of steaming pho and countless street-food stalls. The capital is a vibrant tapestry of movement and sound, where streams of motorbikes weave between pedestrians, cyclos, buses and trucks. Food is everywhere, from humble local eateries to a growing number of contemporary restaurants, meaning you’ll never have to dine at the same place twice.

Beyond the city, the natural wonders of northern Vietnam await. The breathtaking seascape of Ha Long Bay is an essential experience for any first-time visitor; rather than a rushed day trip, it is worth devoting more time to explore the bay and nearby Cat Ba Island.

To the south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh – often called “Ha Long Bay on land” – offers dramatic limestone karsts rising from rice fields and rivers. Boat trips in Trang An or Tam Coc, visits to ancient temples and quiet countryside roads make it a perfect day trip or overnight escape from the capital.

Closer to Hanoi, destinations such as the Perfume Pagoda, the hill station of Tam Dao and the landscapes of Hoa Binh provide a rich mix of culture and nature. For those seeking something more adventurous, the far-northern province of Ha Giang has become one of Vietnam’s most talked-about destinations, with spectacular mountain passes, terraced fields and ethnic minority villages offering some of the country’s most unforgettable road trips.

With a week to ten days, travellers can fully savour the sights, flavours and atmosphere that make Hanoi and its surrounding region a fascinating contrast to the dynamic bustle of Ho Chi Minh City in the south.