Conveniently linear, Vietnam's shape lets you travel all the way between Hanoi, its wonderfully chaotic capital, home to a fascinating jumble of architectural styles and truly scrumptious streetfood, to the fertile Mekong Delta with its floating markets, without missing the tempting array of sights, experiences and flavours in between...

Where to travel in Vietnam

If you've flown into Hanoi, head south to Halong Bay, where you can explore this famously eye-catching coastline on board a traditional junk. Travel south to the imperial city of Hue with its stately citadel, before driving along the stunning Hai Van pass to ancient Hoi An, the historic highlight of many a journey through Vietnam.

South of Hoi An, your exit point from the country is likely to be by air from Ho Chi Minh City, unless you would like to travel through the remarkable Mekong Delta and maybe on up the Mekong River to Cambodia.

Before you think about leaving, though, you might want to pause at one of Vietnam’s gorgeous beaches - we especially love Quy Nhon in the centre, and Mui Ne in the south. The lovely island of Phu Quoc is more developed, but still boasts plenty of space away from the main hotels, and tiny Con Dao is ideal for a classic tropical island honeymoon.

Alternatively you may wish to spend longer in the north, enjoying time outdoors meeting some of Vietnam’s minority tribes in Sapa, remote Ha Giang, or in pretty Mai Chau Valley. Join in with traditional rural life in Ninh Binh, or hike the well-signposted trails of Cuc Phuong National Park.

There is also the less travelled Central Highlands of Vietnam to consider - the site of many of the most infamous battles during the late 60s and 70s. Dalat is the ideal entry point to the region, and this hill station usually captivates attention for a day or two before it’s time to move on.

Reasons to love Vietnam

   Its stunning countryside, buzzing cities and superb uncrowded beaches
   Easy to travel the whole country without doubling back, thanks to its convenient shape and an efficient transport system     

Whether you travel from north to south, or south to north, you are promised a journey of incomparable variety