Limestone bays, buzzing old quarters, lantern-lit towns and some of the best street food in the world.
Vietnam unfolds along a thousand miles of coast: misty Halong Bay and the rice terraces of Sapa in the north, the imperial city of Hue and lantern-lit Hoi An in the centre, and the Mekong Delta's floating markets in the south.
It's a country best tasted: pho for breakfast in Hanoi, banh mi from a street cart, fresh herbs with every meal and coffee thick with condensed milk. Distances are long, so we link the highlights with short flights and an overnight cruise.
The places our guides insist you shouldn't miss, many of them included in our Vietnam tours.
Two thousand limestone islands rising from emerald water.
Trains squeeze past cafes in the narrowest street in the Old Quarter.
Quieter than Halong, with hidden lagoons to paddle into.
Yellow merchant houses, tailors and lanterns on the river.
Clear water and coral reefs just off the coast of Hoi An.
A relaxed stretch of sand with seafood shacks and sunset bars.
Vietnam is long and thin, so the weather differs from north to south. Spring is good everywhere; the centre has its rains from September to December, when the north is dry and cool.
Warm, dry days in the centre and clear skies over Halong Bay.
Beach weather in the centre; short storms in the north.
Heavy rain and occasional floods around Hoi An and Hue.
From culture trips to private honeymoon villas, every Vietnam tour is led by our own local team.
Practical advice from our local team to help you travel respectfully and make the most of every day.
Most visitors apply online for an e-Visa (US$25), valid for up to 90 days. Allow a week for approval.
Walk slowly and steadily: the scooters flow around you. Never stop suddenly or run.
Very, if you eat where locals queue and the food is cooked in front of you. Our guides know the best stalls.
Light, quick-dry clothes, a rain jacket for the centre and north, and a warm layer for Sapa and winter in Hanoi.
Yes. Every Travel26 tour requires insurance that covers medical treatment and cancellation. We can arrange a comprehensive policy when you book.
In Hoi An, walk the old town before 7am: the lanes are empty and the light on the yellow walls is golden.
Talk to a Vietnam specialist and get a free, tailor-made itinerary within 24 hours.