The ultimate Vietnam trip

Vietnam's long-standing capital, Hanoi is a blend of modern, big city energy and remarkable history. Experience the latter on a stroll amongst the Old Quarter's traditional homes and hundreds of pagodas, pay your respects at Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum or visit the Temple of Literature, which is dedicated to famous philosopher, Confucius. One of Hanoi's most well-known features is the emerald-green Hoan Kiem Lake. Learn all about the legend that gave the lake its name, cross the scarlet Huc Bridge to the temple at its centre, or join the locals for a spot of morning Tai Chi or a water puppet show in the evening. Get under Hanoi's skin with a cooking class, wander through its markets, or stop for a drink at a cafe along the iconic Train Street.

Shrouded in legend and one of the new Natural Wonders of the World, Halong Bay is among the most spectacular destinations in Vietnam. You'll likely sail its aquamarine waters and meander between striking towers of limestone in a luxury junk boat, stopping for daily adventures along the way. Travelling in a smaller vessel, you could spend the day at a hidden beach, swimming and snorkelling whenever you like, or paddle across the water at your own pace in a kayak. If you fancy it, visit a floating fishing village or explore some of the bay's most beautiful caves, learning all about their history and lore - Sung Sot Cave is a definite favourite! You can also trek into the jungles of Cat Ba National Park to spot macaque monkeys, deer and beautiful birdlife, and take in panoramic views of Halong Bay. It is usually mist-free between March and April, making this an ideal time to visit.

Let Hoi An charm you with its continent-crossing architecture, exquisite food scene and laidback atmosphere - often enhanced by lanterns of every colour. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stroll through its streets will take you past everything from ornate Japanese bridges to Chinese carvings. Tucking into Hoi An's melange of cuisines is an activity all on its own, whether you eat your way through the best street food in town or dine at one of its top-tier restaurants. While you're in Hoi An, why not catch a traditional water puppet show or get an outfit made by one of their world-class tailors? Outside of the main town, there are stunning beaches, quiet waterways to explore in a basket boat and the remarkable My Son Sanctuary where you'll find exquisite structures from the Cham empire.

The hub of French-ruled Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is jam-packed with historic sights, scenic walking routes and markets you could get lost in for hours. Explore the city on your own or with a guide, where you could visit the poignant War Remnants Museum, American War Museum or Ho Chi Minh Museum, the grand Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral or Opera House, and admire revered temples. Take a trip out of the city to see the 200km-long Cu Chi Tunnels, which were pivotal to the Viet Cong's war efforts. Enjoy a stroll along Nguyen Hue Street, which is kept cool by spouts of mist and lush trees, and you'll be treated to live music, dancing and art exhibitions. At sunset, find yourself at one of the rooftop bars for a fantastic view of the glittering skyline.

Vietnam's portion of the Mekong Delta extends all the way from its border with Cambodia to the South China Sea. Of course, the best way to experience this tapestry of rivers, channels, mangroves and rice fields is on a cruise. When you're not blissfully watching the scenery from on board (keep your eyes peeled for a pod of freshwater dolphins), hop in a sampan boat to visit floating villages and markets overflowing with fresh fruit, and stop to explore tiny islands. You could also do a little adventuring on land. Walk or cycle past Buddhist temples and sugarcane fields, and learn about traditional crafts from a local artisan.

Con Dao is the beach escape you've been looking for, its gentle, azure waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. Head out for a day of scuba diving along its stunning reefs where manta rays, bamboo sharks, parrot fish and sea turtles glide past. If you plan a visit between June and September, you could see turtles nesting on the beach. Head inland for a scenic hike into forests filled with long-tailed macaques and startling birdlife, or make the journey to the hilltop An Son Temple for astounding views. The island also has a poignant history, which you can learn about at the Phu Hai Prison.