Travel Guide: Vietnam Map During Vietnam War

Introduction

Vietnam has a rich history, and a visit to the country can take you back to the tumultuous times of the Vietnam War. The country has moved on from those times, and now offers a plethora of attractions and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Vietnam has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that Vietnam has to offer.

Top Attractions

Ho Chi Minh City

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern and traditional attractions. Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn more about the Vietnam War, or explore the Cu Chi Tunnels to see how the Viet Cong soldiers lived during the war. If you’re looking for a taste of the local culture, head to the Ben Thanh Market or take a stroll along Bui Vien Street, which is known for its vibrant nightlife.

Hanoi

The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the country’s history and culture. Take a walking tour of the Old Quarter to see the city’s colonial architecture and visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to pay your respects to Vietnam’s former leader. If you’re a foodie, make sure to try some of the local delicacies, such as pho, bun cha, and banh mi.

Hidden Gems

Hoi An

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is a charming town that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past. The town is known for its well-preserved ancient buildings, temples, and pagodas. Take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, or explore the town’s narrow alleyways on a bicycle. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the local street food, such as banh xeo and cao lau.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

If you’re an adventure seeker, head to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which is home to some of the world’s largest caves. Take a boat ride along the Son River to explore the Phong Nha Cave, or go on a trek to discover the Hang En Cave, which is known for its natural beauty.

Food Scene

Pho

No visit to Vietnam would be complete without trying the country’s most famous dish, pho. This noodle soup is made with beef or chicken, and is flavored with a mix of herbs and spices. You can find it at street stalls, local restaurants, and even high-end eateries.

Banh Mi

Banh mi is a Vietnamese-style sandwich that is made with a crispy baguette, and filled with meat, vegetables, and a variety of toppings. It’s the perfect snack for when you’re on the go, and you can find it at street stalls and bakeries all over the country.

Budget-Friendly Tips

One of the best things about Vietnam is that it’s a budget-friendly destination. You can easily find cheap accommodation, food, and transportation. Some tips to save money include staying in hostels, eating at street stalls, and using public transportation instead of taxis.

Outdoor Adventures

Biking

Vietnam is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with scenic routes that take you through rice paddies, mountains, and coastal towns. Some popular biking routes include the Hai Van Pass and the Mekong Delta.

Trekking

If you’re up for a challenge, consider going on a trek in Vietnam. The country has a variety of trekking routes that range from easy to difficult, and take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Some popular trekking destinations include Sapa, Mai Chau, and Pu Luong.

Historical Landmarks

Hue

The ancient capital of Vietnam, Hue is home to a number of historical landmarks that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular attractions include the Imperial City, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang.

My Son

Located in central Vietnam, My Son is a collection of Hindu temples that were built between the 4th and 14th centuries. The temples are well-preserved, and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.

Family-Friendly Activities

Water Puppet Show

A traditional form of Vietnamese entertainment, water puppet shows are a must-see for families with kids. The shows are performed in a pool of water, and feature puppets that are controlled by puppeteers who stand behind a screen.

Beaches

Vietnam has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and they’re perfect for families who want to relax and enjoy some time in the sun. Some of the best beaches include Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Bac Ha Market

If you want to experience the local culture, head to Bac Ha Market, which is held on Sundays in the town of Bac Ha. The market is a colorful and lively affair, with locals selling everything from handicrafts to livestock.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, Bai Tu Long Bay is a less-visited alternative to the popular Halong Bay. The bay is home to stunning limestone cliffs, secluded beaches, and pristine waters.

Natural Wonders

Halong Bay

One of the most popular destinations in Vietnam, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its stunning scenery. Take a boat tour to explore the limestone cliffs, caves, and rock formations that dot the bay.

Phu Quoc Island

Located off the coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island is a paradise for nature lovers. The island is home to pristine beaches, coral reefs, and dense forests. Go snorkeling or diving to explore the underwater world, or trek through the forests to discover hidden waterfalls.

Vibrant Nightlife

Ho Chi Minh City

As the largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City has a thriving nightlife scene that caters to all kinds of travelers. From rooftop bars to nightclubs, you’ll find plenty of options to keep you entertained after dark.

Hanoi

Hanoi may be known for its historical and cultural attractions, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to the Old Quarter to find bars and clubs that offer live music, DJs, and cheap drinks.

Local Markets

Ben Thanh Market

One of the most famous markets in Vietnam, the Ben Thanh Market is a bustling affair that sells everything from clothing to food. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and try some of the local street food.

Dong Xuan Market

The largest market in Hanoi, Dong Xuan Market is a maze of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to electronics. It’s a great place to experience the local culture, and to pick up some unique souvenirs.

Beaches and Mountains

Nha Trang

A coastal city in central Vietnam, Nha Trang is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s a popular destination for water sports, such as snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing.

Sapa

A mountainous town in the north of Vietnam, Sapa is known for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. Take a trek through the rice paddies and mountains to discover hidden waterfalls and traditional villages.

Cultural Immersion

Mai Chau

A rural district in the northwest of Vietnam, Mai Chau is home to a number of ethnic minority groups, such as the White Thai and the H’mong. Visit the local villages to experience the local culture, and to try some of the traditional food.

Hue

The former capital of Vietnam, Hue is a city that is steeped in history and culture. Visit the Imperial City to see the ancient palaces and temples, or take a cooking class to learn how to make some of the local delicacies.

Art and Music Scene

Hoi An

A town that is known for its well-preserved ancient buildings, Hoi An is also home to a thriving art and music scene. Visit the local galleries to see the work of local artists, or head to one of the many music venues to listen to live music.