Vietnam from tip to toe

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.

Entering Hue feels like you're taking a step back in time, especially when you pay a visit to the impressive Imperial Citadel. Once home to Nguyen emperors, you'll marvel at ornate temples, palaces and mausoleums, while getting a fascinating history lesson at the same time. You can explore on foot or bicycle with highlights including the seven-tier tower of the Thien Mu Pagoda, traditional garden houses and the Forbidden City - the inner sanctum of ruling emperors. Hue is cut in half by the sweet-as-it-sounds Perfume River, which you could enjoy with a boat ride or afternoon tea on the banks. Delve into the city's traditional trades including bamboo paper and conical hat making, or learn the art of silk embroidery. Visit Dong Ba Market for a taste of Hue's finest street food or learn to make a few delicacies yourself.

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.