Vietnam road trip: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City, 11 stops
Explore Vietnam's 11 most iconic destinations across 4,328 km, from the UNESCO-listed lantern streets of Hoi An and the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to mountain terraces in Sapa and tropical shores of Phu Quoc Island. The route connects Vietnam's historic capitals, coastal cities, and natural landmarks, spanning both north and south.
- Distance
- 4328.3 km
- Mode
- route
- Start
- Kon Dơng, Việt Nam
- End
- Phu Quoc Island – Tropical Paradise
- Stops
- 11
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Kon Dơng, Việt Nam — Preserved 15th-century trading port featuring yellow-washed buildings, silk lanterns, and French-influenced architecture reflecting centuries of cultural exchange.
- Phường Hà Tu, Việt Nam — UNESCO site renowned for dramatic limestone karsts rising from turquoise waters, offering scenic cruises and hidden grottoes in the Gulf of Tonkin.
- Hanoi – Vietnam's Historic Capital — Vibrant capital city blending over a thousand years of history with modern life
- Phường Hoa Lư, Việt Nam — Spectacular natural destination with limestone mountains, peaceful rivers, and ancient temples
- Sapa – Mountains & Rice Terraces — Mountain town in northern highlands with rice terraces and cultural landscapes
- Da Nang – Vietnam's Coastal City — Dynamic coastal city with golden beaches, modern architecture, and cultural landmarks
- Ho Chi Minh City – Modern Metropolis — Vietnam's largest city with vibrant energy, modern skyline, and cultural significance
- Ba Na Hills – Golden Bridge — French hill station featuring the iconic Golden Bridge supported by giant stone hands
- Hue – Imperial City & Perfume River — Historic imperial city along the Perfume River with cultural and architectural heritage
- Mekong Delta – Floating Markets — Southern region renowned for floating markets and waterway communities
- Phu Quoc Island – Tropical Paradise — Vietnam's tropical island paradise with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches
Useful for your trip
- Timing
- Visit Hoi An in the evening when thousands of glowing lanterns illuminate the river and historic streets, creating the town's most magical atmosphere.
- Timing
- Take early morning cruises through Ha Long Bay to experience mist-covered scenery and peaceful surroundings.
- Food
- Enjoy local specialties and riverside dining in Hoi An while experiencing traditional boat rides on the water.
- Food
- Sample fresh local seafood while exploring Ha Long Bay by traditional junkboat.
- Food
- Explore Hanoi's authentic Vietnamese cuisine at night markets and street food vendors, particularly around sunset.
- Transport
- Explore Ha Long Bay by traditional junkboat to discover floating villages, hidden beaches, and narrow passages at a peaceful pace.
- Tip
- Try kayaking and cave exploration activities while visiting Ha Long Bay for added adventure.
- Timing
- Visit Hanoi early mornings around Hoan Kiem Lake to see the peaceful daily lives of local residents.
- Tip
- Visit Hoi An during seasonal festivals and lantern celebrations to experience enriched cultural atmosphere.
- Tip
- Explore areas beyond Hoi An's old town including nearby rice fields, beaches, and quiet villages for another side of central Vietnam.
Video on this route
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