Vietnam is a country rich in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical depth. Geographically, it is traditionally divided into three major regions: the Northern Region, the Central Region, and the Southern Region. Each of these regions has its own unique identity, climate, cuisine, dialects, and traditions, contributing to the diverse and dynamic character of the nation.

Central Vietnam

The Central region brings a more laid-back charm with ancient history in Hue, the magical lantern-lit evenings of Hoi An, and beachside vibes in Da Nang—perfect for travelers who love a mix of culture, food, and relaxation.

Southern Vietnam

Down in the South, the energy turns up in Ho Chi Minh City, where modern city life blends with street food chaos and French colonial charm, while the nearby Mekong Delta offers a tranquil detour into a world of floating markets and lush waterways.

Description:
Welcome to Hanoi! Time to stretch those legs and get your steps in—because this day is packed with culture, history, and crossing the street like it’s a real-life game of The Floor Is Lava. From ancient pagodas to colonial architecture and chaotic charm, you’ll get your first taste of Vietnam’s rich story (and delicious street food).

Places to Visit:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Keep it quiet, Lolo Ho is resting!)

• One Pillar Pagoda

• Temple of Literature (The OG Ivy League of Vietnam)

• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

• Old Quarter (Souvenir central + foodie heaven)

• Hoan Kiem Lake (For that peaceful, “I found myself” photo moment)

👉 For more details (including hotel and transportation) about our Hanoi trip from Manila, check out our full article Our Hanoi Trip from Manila.

👉 For the full itinerary breakdown, photos, tips, and Google Maps links, check out the complete Day 1 blog post – Our First Day in Hanoi

Description:
Today we’re switching busy streets for scenic seas. Ha Long Bay is a postcard brought to life—towering limestone cliffs, emerald green water, and that feeling of “Wait, am I in a fantasy movie right now?” You’ll cruise, you’ll kayak, and you’ll probably say “Wow” like 12 times.

Places to Visit:

• Sung Sot Cave (Big cave, bigger surprises)

• Titop Island (Hike or beach—why not both?)

• Kayaking or bamboo boat ride (Balance skills: tested)

• Seafood lunch on board (Bring your appetite. And stretchy pants.)

👉 For the full Day 2 blog, cruise tips, and how to plan your own Halong Bay day tour—check out: How to Experience Halong Bay in a Day: Top Sights and Best Tours

Description:
Ninh Binh is what happens when Mother Nature says, “I’m gonna show off today.” Nicknamed the “Ha Long Bay on land,” this place has epic views, peaceful boat rides, and temples that look straight out of a martial arts movie. Pro tip: stretch before the stairs.

Places to Visit:

• Trang An or Tam Coc boat tour (Silent river + dramatic cliffs = main character moment)

• Bai Dinh Pagoda (Massive. Like, get-lost level massive.)

• Mua Cave & Lying Dragon Mountain (500+ steps. You got this. We believe in you.)

• Scenic countryside (Rice fields and water buffalo—peak Vietnam vibes)

Description:
Time to level up—literally! Start the day with panoramic views of Hanoi from the Sky Lotte deck (heights are optional, selfies are not). Afterward, enjoy more of the city’s modern and spiritual sides—with lots of chances to snack your way through the afternoon.

Places to Visit:

• Lotte Observation Deck (Don’t look down. Or do. For the ‘gram.)

• West Lake (A peaceful walk with swan-boat potential)

• Tran Quoc Pagoda (Zen mode: ON)

• Street food crawl (Egg coffee tastes like dessert. You’ve been warned.)

Description:
Today we take a mini-vacation inside our vacation. Mega Grand World is all about lights, colors, and vibes—like Venice but with more karaoke energy. Snap your last city shots, eat one more bánh mì, and hop on the comfy overnight bus to Sapa. Sleep well—mountains await!

Places to Visit:

• Mega Grand World Hanoi (Instagram dreams come true)

• Shopping + dining

• Overnight bus to Sapa (Blankets + tilt-back seats = actual nap success)

Description:
Good morning, Sapa! Cooler weather, stunning views, and coffee with clouds—what’s not to love? Start your day in chill mode, then turn up the thrill with a walk across a GLASS BRIDGE (yes, we said glass). It’s scenic. It’s scary. It’s content-worthy.

Places to Visit:

• Viettrekking Café (Coffee + clouds = soul healing)

• Glass Bridge at Rong May Tourist Area (Channel your inner K-drama star—while clinging to the rails)

• Bonus: Silver Waterfall (Optional but beautiful if you’ve got time)

Description:
Time to conquer the “Roof of Indochina”—but don’t worry, it’s a luxury conquest thanks to a scenic cable car ride. At 3,147 meters, Fansipan offers views so good you’ll forget you’re slightly dizzy. After your mountain victory, stroll through charming Sapa town.

Places to Visit:

• Fansipan Mountain (via cable car—your knees are safe)

• Sun World Fansipan Legend (Epic views, cooler temps, and cultural touches)

• Sapa Stone Church

• Local market (Support local! Buy that handwoven scarf, you deserve it.)

Description:
Back to nature with a visit to Cat Cat Village—a traditional H’mong village that’s part cultural experience, part photo op, part nature walk. And just when you think things are calming down… surprise! We’re riding an alpine coaster down a mountain.

Places to Visit:

• Cat Cat Village (Cultural gems and cottagecore goals)

• Local handicrafts and performances

• Alpine Coaster (Scream first, laugh later)

Description:
The hardest part of every trip: going home. Use this day to rest, sip one last Vietnamese coffee, and soak in those mountain views. Or panic-pack your souvenirs. Either way, it’s goodbye for now—but Vietnam’s always ready for round two.

Suggestions:

• Chill at a café or spa

• Travel back to Hanoi or straight to the airport

• Last-minute pho and final deep breath before departure