Vietnam Summer Guide: Hanoi to Halong Bay Highlights

Vietnam, that land where ancient customs blend so readily with contemporary dynamism, making it the most desirable travel destination in Southeast Asia. Two of its most legendary places are Hanoi, its vibrant capital city where history and culture occupy every turn, and Halong Bay, a mystical natural beauty that leaps from the pages of a children's fantasy book. Here is a summer travel guide specifically designed to help you make the most of your vacation in this beautiful country.

Hanoi is a beguiling blend of the past, present, and culture. It's a city where temples going back centuries and colonial structures are standing shoulder-to-shoulder with contemporary cafes and vibrant markets. Taking a stroll down the streets of Hanoi is similar to taking a walk through an open museum, with each bend telling stories of Vietnam's rich historical background.

The Old Quarter is the hub of Hanoi. It's perfect for walking, shopping, and sampling the local food. The Temple of Literature, constructed in 1070, is Vietnam's first university. The tranquil lake at city center, with the iconic Turtle Tower and the lovely red Huc Bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, is a beautiful haven.

The water puppet show is an ancient presentation one cannot miss, showing Vietnamese myths using puppets acting on water. Street food is famous in Hanoi. Savor hot pho, banh mi sandwiches, and bun cha, and taste the egg coffee or coconut coffee in cozy cafes. The Old Quarter appears vibrant at dusk with night markets, street performances, and bars.

Only a short drive from Hanoi, Halong Bay invites visitors to its surreal setting of limestone karsts that tower above emerald-green waters. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay's surreal landscape has captivated explorers and movie crews, starring in blockbusters such as Kong: Skull Island. According to legend, dragons came down from heaven to defend Vietnam, and their tails carved out the bay's dramatic islets.

Among visitors, one-night cruises are the favorite option, providing an experience of the magic of the bay coupled with a visit to caves, floating villages, and sunset. Multi-night cruises provide a more prolonged experience, but traveling for 2 or more nights enables one to explore less touristy places like Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha Bay. Shuttle buses or public buses from Hanoi cover a distance of 2-3 hours to Halong Bay.

Explore caves such as Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) and Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace). Explore Cat Ba Island, the bay's largest island, or remote beaches for swimming and sunbathing. For a bird's-eye view, go on a seaplane flight over the bay's rocky peaks. Spa, hot springs, and yoga are typical on some cruises among nature's serenity.