A vast country that covers miles of emerald fields, idyllic islands and cities with a truly captivating history, Vietnam has plenty to brag about. Its photogenic sights may pull focus but there is also a fabulous roster of high-end hotels, resorts and grand boats to really up the ante. Take a look at our favourite trips and accommodation that show you Vietnam in luxury — and keep your passport handy!
Vietnam from tip to toe
Your journey begins in Ho Chi Minh City, a beacon of history and independence, where you can see the remnants of colonial Vietnam at the bygone Post Office and Notre Dame cathedral and learn about the wartime wins and losses in the sprawling Cu Chi Tunnels and Reunification Palace. And let’s not forget about the mouthwatering cuisine that fills stalls and restaurants throughout the city – a tasting tour is definitely in order.
A vision of towering, tufted karsts and shimmering water, sailing across Halong Bay feels like a dream. You’ll long to see every inch of it, which you can do on a tranquil kayaking trip or on a snorkel excursion into one of the beautiful lagoons. If you’re the adventurous type, learn about the legends of the bay as you explore cave after cave, or take it all in from the seat of a helicopter.
Next up, you’ll be swept up by the beautiful and booming capital, Hanoi. Stroll among ornate temples (there are hundreds!) and grab a bowl of pho in the Old Quarter, enjoy the serene atmosphere of Hoan Kiem Lake, and don’t miss out on a traditional water puppet show.
Handsome Hue is your next stop, a city cut in half by the enchanting-as-it-sounds Perfume River. Make like a local and explore by bicycle, marvelling at the splendid Imperial Citadel and royal mausoleums, visiting authentic garden houses and trying your hand at an authentic craft.
Once the gateway for merchants from across the globe, Hoi An is a city of many tales. Discover the history on a stroll through the UNESCO-recognised centre, crossing bridges and tucking into iconic dishes beneath the glow of 1,000 silk lanterns.
Opulent spots to stay
In Ho Chi Minh City, the Villa Song is as pretty as a picture with a sunlit saltwater pool, spa and a private boat for exploring or opt for the beyond-stylish Hotel des Arts right on the doorstep of old Saigon. One of the grandest vessels in Halong Bay, the Au Co Cruise has it all from a fantastic roster of activities to soaks in the rooftop hot tub and a cinema under the stars. In Hanoi, our first choice is the Sofitel Legend Metropole, a hotel that has welcomed a bevy of celebrities over the years. You’ll feel like an A-lister yourself as you explore the city in a limo, take afternoon tea in the grand hall and listen to smooth jazz as Hanoi becomes a sea of light.
With fabulous views from its locale beside the Perfume River, Azerai La Residence has everything you need to wind down and chill out in between excursions into Hue including heavenly spa treatments. Decorated with pieces by some of Vietnam’s finest artists, the Anantara Resort in Hoi An has pampering down to a ‘T’ and is a perfect place to slow down and enjoy the end of the trip.
Explore the north of Vietnam
Combine the grand sights of Hanoi with the sensational scenery on this trip to Northern Vietnam. Dressed in acres of greenery, Mai Chau is a delight – and hiking is certainly the name of the game. You’ll also uncover handmade goodies at local markets and explore the mysterious caves of the region.
Next up, Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, is a treasure trove of culture with hundreds of beautiful pagodas surrounded by quiet lakes and gardens. Head towards the coast where you can board a grand junk boat on a cruise across the dazzling Halong Bay. Limestone karsts rise from sky-blue water, and you’ll spend your days visiting floating villages and hidden caves.
Your final stop is Phu Quoc, a tiny island just off Vietnam’s southern coastline. The azure water invites for scuba diving and snorkelling and the sand is golden and soft. Cocktails on the beach anyone?
Opulent spots to stay
Tucked away in the mountains of Northern Vietnam, the Mai Chau Eco Lodge promises spectacular views and if you opt for the Presidential Suite, you can enjoy them from your private pool. Boasting decades of history and offering some of Hanoi’s finest hospitality, the Sofitel Legend Metropole is a delight with French trimmings and refined style. In Halong Bay, book the Halong Ginger to cruise in style. Inspired by the splendour of the Ming Dynasty, the junk boat offers everything you could possibly need including spa baths, a heated rooftop pool and views to die for. Sitting along a secluded stretch of powdery sand, a stay at the Fusion Resort Phu Quoc means idyllic ocean views from your private pool and dinners on the beach.
The Ultimate Vietnam Trip
Experience the full spectrum of Vietnam on this trip from the head-spinning history and architecture of its cities to the natural beauty that abounds. Your adventure begins with the buzzing of mopeds and chirruping sellers in Hanoi, where temples mingle with French mansions and tranquil lakes break the urban setting. And don’t skip a drink at one of the iconic railway cafes!
The sublime Halong Bay is next up. Legends abound here and undiscovered enclaves will become your private paradise for the day. Then, just like the seafarers of old, find yourself in the charming city of Hoi An where life seems to run according to its own clock. Meander amongst Chinese shrines and bridges, aged tea houses and world-class tailors, letting the pretty streets work their magic.
Dive into Vietnam’s past in Ho Chi Minh City where every era of Vietnam’s history is memorialised in the architecture, museums and landmarks. When all that sightseeing starts to take its toll, wander through China Town in search of tasty delicacies.
Hop aboard a luxury vessel and make your way down the Mekong Delta, surrounded by serene vistas and the occasional floating market where fruit of every colour is piled a few feet high. Finally, it’s time to kick off your shoes and ease into a seaside lounger on Con Dao Island, that is when you’re not off snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking or finding yet another untouched beach to laze upon.
Opulent spots to stay
They say, if you find something great, hold onto it, which is why the Sofitel Legend Metropole remains our tried and tested favourite in Hanoi. Aboard the Paradise Peak Cruise in Halong Bay, you’ll be well taken care of by your personal buttler and the view of the landscape is simply breathtaking from the rooftop bar. A little outside of Hoi An, the Four Seasons Resort is decked out with over-the-water spa suites and sumptuous rooms.
Right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Park Hyatt Saigon is as grand as it is stylish, and the service is impeccable – how does butler service right to your poolside cabana sound? As you float down the Mekong, the Aqua Cruise will ensure the utmost comfort with California king-size beds and a rooftop pool. Set in an entirely private corner of Con Dao, the Six Senses makes for a suitably luxurious end with spoiling spa treatments, a fabulous array of eateries and a private pool with every villa.
