Explore
Vietnam
Want to travel beyond the usual tourist trail? We planned this trip around some of Vietnam’s most memorable places, from the old streets of Hanoi to the misty hills of Sapa, the raw beauty of Cao Bang, the iconic scenery of Lan Ha Bay, and the energy of Ho Chi Minh City. It was the perfect balance of culture, nature, and local charm.
@ Cao Bang
@ Sapa
Language
Vietnamese-mainly spoke. English understood in major cities and tourist areas, but not in smaller towns.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Card and mobile payments are common in cities, but cash is still very useful, especially for local shops, markets, and rural areas.
Vegan-Friendly
Easier in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but more limited in smaller towns. Always double-check ingredients, especially for broths and sauces.
Suggested Applications
Grab (transport), Google Maps (navigation), Google Translate (communication), Klook or Traveloka (bookings)
Weather
Varies a lot- North Vietnam has cooler winters and hot summers, while the central and southern regions are generally warmer year-round. Rainy season usually falls around May–Oct, depending on the area.
Festivals
Tet / Lunar New Year is the biggest celebration, with other major festivals including the Mid-Autumn Festival and local regional festivals throughout the year.
At a glance
Vietnam: Mix of local gems and classic highlights
Most travel guides focus on the usual Vietnam highlights, but we wanted something that felt a little more layered. This 12-day trip took us from Hanoi to Sapa, Cao Bang, Lan Ha Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City, with a mix of classic sights, local experiences, and a few offbeat stops in between.
We spent our time exploring Vietnam in a way that balanced the well-known with the less obvious — from an ancient herbal bath and Sapa’s knife village to limestone bays, mountain scenery, and busy city streets. It was the kind of trip that gave us both the postcard moments and the local details that make a journey feel real.
Hanoi (arrive) → Sapa → Cao Bang →Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Lan Ha Bay → Ho Chi Minh City
3 days in Sapa – Rice Terrace, Cloudy Peaks, Herbal Bath and Offbeat Village Views
3 days in Hanoi — old streets, food spots, and a great introduction to the country.
2 days in Cao Bang — quieter landscapes and a slower, more local feel.
2 days in Lan Ha Bay — iconic limestone scenery and a cruise experience.
2 days in Ho Chi Minh City — a lively finish with energy, history, and great food.
![3 Days in Sapa from Hanoi: Beyond Trekking (Our Honest Itinerary) [2026]](https://the9tofly.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Cable-Car-Fansipan-1-768x432.jpeg)