There are endless options for all kinds of travelers. Cruise the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay and its quieter neighbors, wander the lantern-lit old town of Hoi An, take a street food tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, walk the imperial citadel in Hue, and spend a day on the canals of the Mekong Delta. You can also opt for a river cruise down the Mekong, or go hiking in the misty highlands of Sapa.

Vietnam’s geographical size means the weather varies by region. The north, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, is dry and cool from October through April and hot and humid the rest of the year. Central Vietnam, including Hue and Hoi An, is best from February through May, before the typhoon season that runs September through November. The south, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is driest from December through April.

Yes. Vietnam has a strong range of high-end properties, from restored French colonial hotels in Hanoi to boutique resorts along the central coast and luxury small-ship cruises through Ha Long Bay, all paired with private guides throughout.

Trips can be as gentle or active as you like. Cruising Ha Long Bay and walking tours through Hanoi and Hoi An require little exertion, while trekking around Sapa, cycling the countryside near Hoi An, and kayaking through Ha Long Bay’s islands add more activity. Each trip can be tailored to your personal preference and fitness level.

Yes. Vietnam is commonly combined with Cambodia for the temples of Angkor Wat, or with Laos, Cambodia, or Thailand for a broader Southeast Asia itinerary. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are excellent jumping-off points for direct flights to many top Southeast Asia destinations.

Vietnam’s coastline stretches over 1,000 miles, giving it distinct regional character from north to south, along with a deep colonial and war history, a food culture built on fresh herbs and broths, and karst landscapes not found elsewhere in the region.