Vietnam Travel Guide 2025 – Places, Food & Tips
Vietnam is a breathtaking blend of ancient heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. From emerald rice fields to limestone karsts, bustling street markets to serene beaches—Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding travel experiences. Whether you’re an adventurer, foodie, or culture lover, this Vietnam travel guide will help you make the most of your journey.
📍 Top Places to Visit in Vietnam
- Hanoi – The capital city with a mix of French colonial architecture, street food, and culture. Don’t miss Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
- Halong Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with limestone islands and emerald waters. Best explored via an overnight cruise.
- Sapa – Northern Vietnam’s mountainous region with rice terraces, local hill tribes, and stunning hiking trails.
- Ninh Binh – Often called “Halong Bay on land” for its limestone cliffs, caves, and temples.
- Da Nang – Coastal city known for My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, and the famous Golden Bridge (held by stone hands).
- Hoi An – A charming town with lantern-lit streets, ancient architecture, and tailor-made shopping.
- Hue – The former imperial capital with palaces, tombs, and the Perfume River.
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – A bustling metropolis with skyscrapers, war museums, markets, and vibrant nightlife.
- Mekong Delta – A peaceful escape with floating markets, river cruises, and local village experiences.
🍜 What to Eat in Vietnam
Vietnamese cuisine is light, fresh, and incredibly flavorful. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- Pho – Traditional noodle soup with herbs and meat (usually beef or chicken)
- Banh Mi – Vietnamese baguette sandwich with meats, pickles, and sauces
- Goi Cuon – Fresh spring rolls with shrimp, rice noodles, and herbs
- Bun Cha – Grilled pork served with rice noodles and dipping sauce
- Com Tam – Broken rice with grilled meats and eggs
- Ca Phe Sua Da – Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk
🛑 Tip: Street food is safe, cheap, and delicious – especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
🧭 Top Things to Do in Vietnam
- 🛳️ Cruise through Halong Bay
- 🚂 Take the Reunification Express Train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
- 🧵 Get custom-made clothes in Hoi An
- 🏍️ Go on a motorbike adventure in the hills of Sapa or Ha Giang
- 🏖️ Relax on beaches in Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc
- 🛕 Explore ancient temples and citadels in Hue
- 🎭 Watch a traditional water puppet show in Hanoi
- 🛶 Float through the Mekong Delta in a wooden boat
🍛 Top Indian Restaurants in Vietnam
Indian food is easy to find in major cities, with many authentic vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
🥘 In Hanoi:
- Namaste Hanoi – Elegant setting with North & South Indian cuisine
- Khazaana Indian Restaurant – Popular with tourists and locals
- Tandoor Indian Restaurant – Great veg & non-veg thalis
🥘 In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):
- Baba’s Kitchen – Consistently top-rated Indian food in HCMC
- Tandoor Saigon – Classic Indian with tandoori specialties
- Ashoka Restaurant – Long-standing favorite with rich flavors
🥘 In Da Nang / Hoi An:
- Family Indian Restaurant (Da Nang) – Cozy and flavorful meals
- Ganesh Indian Restaurant (Hoi An) – Vegetarian-friendly and flavorful curries
🧳 Travel Tips: Do’s and Don’ts in Vietnam
✅ Do’s:
- Learn a few Vietnamese greetings – it’s appreciated
- Use local taxis or apps like Grab for transport
- Carry cash – small denominations are useful in markets
- Dress modestly when visiting temples
❌ Don’ts:
- Don’t raise your voice in public – it’s considered rude
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Don’t forget to remove shoes before entering homes or some shops
- Don’t drink tap water – always buy bottled
Vietnam offers the perfect mix of scenic landscapes, rich heritage, warm hospitality, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re cruising Halong Bay, wandering through lantern-lit Hoi An, or sipping coffee by the roadside in Hanoi—this Vietnam travel guide ensures your journey is unforgettable. With plenty of Indian food options and diverse experiences, Vietnam should be high on every traveler’s list.
