Vietnam completely exceeded my expectations. It’s chaotic and calm, intense and peaceful, modern and deeply traditional — sometimes all at once.
From the buzzing streets of Hanoi to the motorbike adventures of the Ha Giang Loop and the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, this was a journey filled with landscapes, local culture, street food and unforgettable experiences.
Here’s my full route through Vietnam — and everything I experienced along the way.
My Vietnam Travel Route
- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay
- Ha Gaing City (Ha Gaing Loop)
- Ninh Binh
- Hue
- Hanoi
- Da Nang
- Ho Chi Minh
Hanoi – Street Food, History & Chaos
I began my journey in Hanoi, and it was the perfect introduction to Vietnam.
The Old Quarter was alive at all hours — scooters weaving through traffic, street vendors cooking on tiny plastic stools, locals sipping iced coffee on the pavement.
- Visiting the historic Temple of Literature
- Walking down the famous Hanoi Train Street
- Exploring the powerful Hỏa Lò Prison
- Spending evenings at Hang Bar
- Writing postcards at Post It Café
- Eating endless bowls of pho and bánh mì from street stalls
Day Trip to Ha Long Bay
From Hanoi, I took a day trip to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay.
We:
- Explored limestone islands
- Kayaked through hidden lagoons
- Walked through caves
- Swam in emerald water
It’s touristy — but still magical.
Ha Giang Loop – The Highlight of My Trip
Next, I took a bus north to Hà Giang, where I began a 3-night / 4-day motorbike adventure around the legendary Ha Giang Loop.
I chose to ride with an experienced driver (an “easy rider”), which allowed me to fully take in the scenery without worrying about the roads.
I did the trip with Mama’s Homestay, and it was one of the best decisions of my trip.
What we Experienced:
- Riding along dramatic cliff edges
- Swimming beneath waterfalls
- Driving through rice and corn fields
- Endless mountain viewpoints
- A boat trip along the stunning Nho Quế River
- Sharing homemade rice liquor with locals (known as happy water)
The landscapes were some of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. Towering limestone mountains stretched endlessly, and every turn revealed something new.
This part of Vietnam felt raw, authentic and untouched.
Ninh Binh – Vietnam’s Hidden Gem
After returning to Ha Giang City, I took the bus to Ninh Binh.
This region is quieter but just as stunning.
Things I Did:
- Climbed Hang Múa for panoramic views
- Explored the ancient capital of Hoa Lư
- Took a boat ride through caves at Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex
- Rented a motorbike and explored the countryside
Ninh Binh feels slower, greener, and incredibly peaceful.
Hue – History & Hidden Corners
Next stop: Huế.
Hue felt more traditional and historic.
Highlights:
- Exploring local markets
- Visiting the abandoned waterpark
- Walking up Vong Canh Hill for sunset
- Visiting an incense village and learning to make incense
- Driving through mangroves
- Relaxing at Thuan Beach
Hue feels less touristy, which made it even more special.
Riding the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An
One of the best travel days was riding the Hai Van Pass from Hue to Hoi An.
Cliffside roads overlooking the ocean. Misty mountain viewpoints. Swimming stops. Endless scenery.
Along the way, I also saw the towering statue of Lady Buddha.
It’s easily one of the most scenic coastal drives in Southeast Asia.
Hoi An – Lanterns & Tailor Shops
Arriving in Hội An felt magical.
The Old Town glows at night with lanterns reflecting over the river.
Things I Did:
- Wandered lantern-lit streets
- Cycled through rural rice fields
- Relaxed at the beach
- Visited tailor street (Hoi An is famous for custom clothing)
It was charming, colourful and incredibly photogenic.
Da Nang – Beaches & Night Markets
From Hoi An, I shared a taxi with friends to Đà Nẵng.
Da Nang had a modern, coastal vibe.
I:
- Relaxed on the beach
- Visited Son Tra Night Market
- Walked along the riverfront
- Watched the fire show at Dragon Bridge
- Watched street performers
The city feels clean, spacious, and easygoing.
Ho Chi Minh City – Energy & History
My final stop was Ho Chi Minh City — and it’s intense in the best way.
Scooters everywhere. Skyscrapers rising above colonial buildings. Street food on every corner.
Highlights:
- War Remnants Museum
- Independence Palace
- Saigon Central Post Office
- Café Apartments
- Ho Thi Ky Food Street
I also did a day trip to:
- Cu Chi Tunnels
- The Mekong Delta
- Including a stop at a coconut candy factory
It was the perfect way to end the trip — fast-paced, flavour-packed, and full of history.
Final Thoughts on Travelling Vietnam
Vietnam surprised me at every turn.
From the dramatic mountain roads of Ha Giang to lantern-lit streets in Hoi An and buzzing markets in Ho Chi Minh City, the variety is unmatched.
If I had to summarise my trip:
- Ha Giang Loop was the highlight
- Ninh Binh was the most peaceful
- Hoi An was the most charming
- Ho Chi Minh City was the most energetic
Vietnam is affordable, diverse, and incredibly rewarding.
If you’re considering this route — do it. It flows perfectly from north to south and showcases the very best of the country.
