Vietnam hotels

Dining and nightlife in Vietnam

Vietnam is a culinary paradise and offers a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. From bustling street food stalls to upscale dining experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Street food culture

One of the highlights of dining in Vietnam is its famous street food. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are filled with stalls and vendors serving up delicious dishes at affordable prices. Don’t miss trying pho, the iconic noodle soup, or banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich filled with meats and fresh vegetables. Street food tours are a fantastic way to explore local flavours and get an insider's perspective.

• Must-try dishes:

  • Pho (noodle soup)

  • Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich)

  • Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles)

  • Goi Cuon (spring rolls)

Dining experiences

For those looking to indulge in a sit-down meal, Vietnam boasts a range of restaurants, from casual eateries to high-end dining establishments. In Hoi An, enjoy riverside dining with stunning views, while in Hanoi, you can find many restaurants serving traditional dishes with a modern twist. Nha Trang is known for its seafood restaurants that provide fresh catches right by the beach.

• Popular dining spots:

  • Riverside restaurants in Hoi An

  • Seafood joints in Nha Trang

  • Traditional eateries in Hanoi

Nightlife in major cities

When the sun sets, Vietnam's cities come alive with vibrant nightlife. Ho Chi Minh City is known for its rooftop bars offering stunning views of the skyline, while Hanoi has a more laid-back vibe with its lively pub scene. Don’t forget to experience a traditional Vietnamese beer, often enjoyed at local bars or along the streets.

• Best nightlife experiences:

  • Rooftop bars in Ho Chi Minh City

  • Live music venues in Hanoi

  • Night markets with food and shopping

Unique experiences

For a truly memorable evening, consider a dinner cruise on the Saigon River or enjoying a performance at the Saigon Opera House. These experiences not only offer great food but also breathtaking views and cultural insights.

Vietnam's dining and nightlife options create a dynamic atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the country's rich culture while enjoying delicious food and vibrant entertainment.

Shopping in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a diverse shopping experience that caters to all tastes and budgets, from bustling markets to modern shopping malls. Whether you're hunting for traditional handicrafts, trendy fashion, or delicious street food, there’s something for everyone.

Traditional markets

Visiting a local market is a must when in Vietnam. Markets like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi are great places to find everything from textiles and handicrafts to fresh produce and street food. These vibrant markets provide a glimpse into local life and are perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.

• Must-visit markets:

  • Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City)

  • Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi)

  • Hoi An Night Market (Hoi An)

Crafts and souvenirs

Vietnam is known for its rich artisan culture. In cities like Hoi An, you can find beautiful handwoven textiles, silk products, and pottery. Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase lacquerware and hand-painted ceramics, which make for perfect gifts or home decor.

• Popular artisan products:

  • Silk clothing and scarves

  • Lacquerware

  • Pottery and ceramics

Fashion and modern shopping

For those interested in fashion, Vietnam has a growing number of boutiques and shopping malls. Vincom Center in Ho Chi Minh City and Lotte Center in Hanoi offer a variety of international brands as well as local designers. You can find everything from trendy clothing to accessories in these modern retail spaces.

• Top shopping destinations:

  • Vincom Center (Ho Chi Minh City)

  • Lotte Center (Hanoi)

  • Shopping streets in Danang

Street shopping

Don’t overlook the joy of street shopping, especially in areas like the Old Quarter in Hanoi or Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City. Here, you'll find stalls selling handmade goods, clothing, and delicious street food. Bargaining is common, so feel free to negotiate prices.

Specialty shops

For those interested in unique finds, look for specialty shops selling local products such as coffee, tea, and traditional medicines. Vietnamese coffee, in particular, is renowned worldwide, and buying some to take home is a great way to remember your trip.

Shopping in Vietnam provides a vibrant and engaging experience that allows you to take a piece of the country home with you. Whether you're exploring local markets or chic boutiques, you'll find plenty of treasures to discover.

Mui Ne beach

The charming beach of Mui Ne is overlooked by numerous elegant Vietnamese Hotels and is a fantastic destination for snorkelling and scuba-diving thanks to its incredibly clean sea water. The area is also known for its vast sand dunes and great seafood restaurants, and receives considerably less rainfall during the rainy season than other parts of Vietnam. Ha Long Bay The perfect harmony of turquoise waters and dramatic rocky mountains, Ha Long Bay is known locally as the 'Bay of Descending Dragons' and includes thousands of small islands and impressive caves. This enormous bay has been inhabited for tens of thousands of years and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

Thiên Mụ Pagoda

In the historic city of Huế, this enchanting temple dates back to the turn of the 17th century and is one of the country's tallest religious landmarks. The temple offers excellent views of the Perfume River and is an important symbol of Vietnam's imperial past.

Hanoi

The Vietnamese capital was established in 1900 and is renowned for its charismatic Old Quarter, where you can visit the bustling Đồng Xuân Market, the Temple of Literature, and the country's oldest university. Hanoi is home to hundreds of great Vietnamese Hotels and numerous major shopping malls, some of which include the underground Vincom Royal City Megamall and the Trang Tien Plaza. The city is also surrounded by various scenic lakes like the Halais Lake and Hoàn Kiếm Lake, which give it the nickname 'the city of lakes'. See the Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the imposing Hanoi Flag Tower and the architectural remains of the Lý, Trần, Lê and Nguyễn Dynasties. Hanoi also features many of the most famous Vietnam hotels and is home to plenty of fascinating museums such as the Hanoi Contemporary Arts Centre and the National Museum of Vietnamese History.

Top attractions in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a wide range of attractions that appeal to every type of traveller. From ancient temples to breathtaking landscapes, here are some must-visit attractions that should be on your itinerary when exploring this vibrant country.

1. Ha Long Bay

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay is famed for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands topped with rainforests. Visitors can take boat cruises to explore the bay, kayak among the islands, or visit the stunning caves that dot the landscape. A stay in nearby hotels offers easy access to this natural wonder.

2. Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An is a well-preserved ancient town known for its historic architecture, lantern-lit streets, and vibrant markets. Explore the charming old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy local delicacies at the riverside restaurants. Many hotels in Hoi An provide the perfect base for exploring this enchanting area.

3. Cu Chi Tunnels

Located near Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history. This extensive network of underground tunnels was used during the Vietnam War for military operations and is now a popular tourist attraction. Guided tours provide insights into the life of soldiers and the tactics used during the war.

4. The Imperial City of Hue

Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is home to the historic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The complex features ancient palaces, temples, and beautiful gardens that reflect the rich history and culture of the Nguyen dynasty. Hotels in Hue often provide packages that include guided tours of the city’s many attractions.

5. My Son Sanctuary

The My Son Sanctuary is a collection of Hindu temples built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Cham civilisation. Set in a lush green valley, these ruins offer a peaceful and historically rich experience. It’s an excellent day trip for those staying in nearby hotels.

6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Home to some of the world's largest caves, including the famous Son Doong Cave, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a paradise for adventure seekers. Hiking, caving, and exploring the stunning landscapes are just a few activities available. Stay in hotels nearby to take full advantage of this natural wonder.

Vietnam’s attractions offer a diverse range of experiences that complement your stay in the country. Whether you are exploring historic sites or enjoying natural beauty, you will find plenty to enrich your visit.