City-Hopping Around Vietnam: Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, Done Differently

Beaches, bays and backpackers are synonymous with Vietnam, but this is only the tip of the iceberg of what the Southeast Asian country is about.

Discover how locals live at night markets, drink beer for less than 50 cents, soak up contemporary art, and check out traditional Vietnamese costume. Block out two weeks and book three short flights to see what we’re talking about.

Vietnam’s capital and the country’s second largest city, Hanoi is where you will find some of the country’s most magnificent buildings and landmarks, including the Temple of Literature, Hanoi Opera House and Hoa Lo Prison. Pay a visit to these main attractions, but also take cues from locals.

Street food is a big part of Hanoi’s culture and is where many Vietnamese dishes originate. To dine like a local, sidestep touristy areas like Ha Tien Street and favour local hang-out Phùng Hưng Street, which is lined with options. Drawing on herbs, lime juice and chilli for the bulk of dishes, Vietnamese food is considered one of the healthiest cuisines in the world.

Vietnam is well trodden by backpackers from across the world. To connect with other English speakers, stay at the Luxury Backpackers Hotel. It’s a popular option for its proximity to the Hanoi Railway Station and Đồng Xuân Market.

The smallest city in the loop, Hoi An is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its traditional architecture. Alongside its protected buildings that date back to the 15th century, you’ll find contemporary art in corners of the city.

Vietnam’s answer to the baguette, banh mi (translating as ‘sandwich’) is Hoi An’s speciality. Banh Mi Phuong makes the best in town – they’re usually filled with cold cuts of minced meat, liver pâté, fresh vegetables and pickled carrots. There are plenty of variations on offer here, but the classic banh mi is the best of the bunch.

Inspired by the ancient love story and marriage between a Japanese merchant, Sotaro, and a Vietnamese princess, Wakaku, the Hotel Royal Hoi blends design references from both countries. The hotel is split into two wings to reflect this hybrid, with the Sotaro Wing nodding to Japanese tradition and the Wakaku Wing rooted in Vietnamese heritage. Neighbouring the Old Quarter of Hoi An and Thu Bon River, it’s in a prime location for exploring.

Ho Chi Minh City is a non-stop city that serves food, architecture and partying in equal measure. Get up close and personal with famous landmarks before gazing at them from a rooftop bar.

For some great accommodation in Hoi An, check out the best hotels in the city, bookable with Culture Trip.