Whether you’re newly engaged and dreaming of the perfect honeymoon, celebrating that special anniversary, or simply craving a romantic escape, Vietnam is the sleeper destination not to be overlooked. With its stunning natural beauty, tropical beaches, deep cultural charm, and chic city vibes, a trip to Vietnam takes you off the beaten path to somewhere romantic, authentic, and truly unforgettable.
Recharge with the Great Outdoors
It’s no surprise that Vietnam has a whole host of great outdoor excursions for the avid adventurer. Here are just a few of the adventures that await the curious couple on their romantic Vietnam getaway:
Halong Bay
Ha Long Bay is probably one of the premier images that one thinks of when Vietnam comes to mind. Cruising around the bay is the most popular way to experience this truly incredible area, and many luxury cruise options through Explorient are available to augment your holiday, such as the exclusive and luxuriously appointed Premium Orchid Cruise with just five cabins, or a privately chartered Bhaya Cruise for those who prefer total privacy, that allows you to truly experience the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay in style. Sit back and enjoy a sunset drink with your love as karst limestone peaks and islands float idly by, showcasing a cacophony of colours as the night creeps in.
Hoi An
A stop in Hoi An provides any new married couple a chance to escape the fast paced life of the big city and take it slow for a few days. Hoi An Old Town is the perfect place to take a stroll hand in hand whilst exploring the colourful, exciting markets and old French colonial architecture that lines the riverfront, where bright fishing boats make an ideal backdrop for photos together. Take advantage of a half day Old Town Tour and make the most of this charming stop that you won’t want to miss. End the day with a sunset cruise along the famed Thu Bon River gliding past colorful lanterns, fishing villages and verdant rice paddies.
Ninh Binh and Pu Luong
For the adventure seeker looking to get off the tourist path, the northern part of Vietnam is ideal for excursions to small rice paddy villages like Ninh Binh or beautiful nature reserves such as Pu Luong. Take a bicycle to explore the lush green paddies of Ninh Binh, explore caves and visit with farmers to learn more about the lifestyle out here. Try your hand at planting some rice yourself and make friends with the locals.
Pu Luong is an ideal place to head if you like getting outside and exploring what nature truly has to offer. Whether you’re rafting down idyllic streams on bamboo boats or you’re exploring one of many rice terraces in the region, Pu Luong Nature Preserve offers up some of Vietnam’s most spectacular nature offerings, perfect for getting a bit of recharging done before hitting up some of the bustling cities of Vietnam.
Cityscapes That You Can’t Miss
The major cities of Vietnam offer some truly unique sights and experiences. Whether you’re a foodie and looking to explore the food scene of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh or you’re a history buff, the cities of Vietnam have a little something for everyone.
Food that’s Literally Out of This World!
It’s no surprise to anyone that Vietnamese food is some of the best on the planet. Just look around your own local city to see how many Vietnamese joints showcase tastes of the country from Pho, the national popular noodle soup to Banh Mi, the national fresh tasting sandwich, and everything in between. While these are, of course, the most popular choices, there is a whole world of great Vietnamese food to try and there are numerous markets spread throughout both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City that are specifically tailored to the travelling foodie. Check out a homegrown hero in Banh Cuon while in Hanoi – a type of spring roll made of fermented rice paper and stuffed with mushrooms, pork and vegetables, or stroll along sizzling markets in Ho Chi Minh for some brilliant street food such as snails, skewers or pha lau.
If unique or chic bars are more your vibe, Ho Chi Minh City is home to some of the best. Take a rest and have a cocktail at Caravelle Hotel’s iconic Siagon Saigon rooftop bar where the vibe is city meets beach with an artist’s touch. Lay back and relax in one of their inflatable pools on a sea of sand and partake in one of their nightly entertainments – film night, jam night or stop by on Sundays to pick up a can of spray paint and leave your mark in their venue – a great way to memorialise your honeymoon.
For a cozy, chic lounge check out top rated bar ‘Can You Keep a Secret?’. Located in the heart of the city, this bar features a dark and moody atmosphere, edged with a style you’ll fall in love with. Cocktails are beautifully done and showcase a finesse that’s hard to top, a perfect way to make your Instagram followers jealous.
For a romantic, five star dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, check out the famous Monkey Gallery Dining. Hosted by Michelin Chef Hậu, this fine dining establishment features an ever-changing, unique menu based on several colours. With delectable culinary choices that are prepared by skilled chefs to become more artwork than food, this is rated as a must visit restaurant while in town for exquisite food you’ll be hard pressed to forget.
Hanoi – A Glimpse of Vietnam’s French Colonial Yesteryears
As mentioned, Hanoi is home to some unique and colourful markets that are ideal for souvenir shopping. For a local experience, check out the bustling Dong Xuan Market that features three floors of goods for all types of shopper – tourist and local. The market also has a night version at the weekend for those who want to experience a different vibe. The night market features fabrics, souvenirs, food and various other items that allow for a great experience just window shopping.
For those who love getting lost along back streets and alleys of strange and unusual foreign cities, Hanoi’s Old Quarter will certainly not disappoint even the most discerning traveller. Check out the sweet little cafes along the world famous “Train Street”, a narrow alley where trains pass by only inches away from the tables of cafes and front of shops selling goods of all kinds. For a one of a kind experience, take in a coffee and enjoy the thrill as the trains pass by, allowing for some truly cool, colourful photos. The Old Quarter will truly transport you back in time, with its French-inspired colonial architecture and Juliet balconies lined with greenery, you will feel truly in another era.
Ho Chi Minh City – A World City
Like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh in the south of the country is home to numerous sights that you won’t want to miss. Go souvenir hunting at Sai Gon Square, a shopping mall that also boasts beautiful exterior architecture that’s sure to impress. The Ben Thanh Market next door is also home to a unique shopping experience.
Stroll down the Nguyen Hue Street pedestrian street for lively restaurants, performances and cool eateries where you’re sure to find just the right taste for any palate. For the adventurous couple, check out the renowned Backpacker District, also known as Western Street for its popularity amongst travellers. Here you’ll find a whole variety of cool bars and restaurants where you might make a friend or two of a fellow tourist on the dance floor or at the bar. You never know who you might meet on Bui Vien Street.
Luxury Accommodations – Heritage Icons to Nature Retreats
Sofitel Metropole Hotel, Hanoi
This prestigious hotel in Hanoi features a neoclassical, French elegance mixed with modern touches and edged by history. Featuring an exclusive tour to their bomb shelter which housed 11 embassies and 3 UN agencies when needed, this unique hotel is ideal for a stop in the city as it has a little something for everyone. Take a break at the spa for a variety of treatments before kicking back at one of the several on site bars and restaurants, beautifully decorated with a historical flair to match the architecture. With a large pool and beautifully appointed rooms, this is definitely one hotel you won’t want to miss.
Avana Retreat, Mai Chau
This beautiful, one of a kind retreat nestled in the mountains of Mai Chau is inspired by the topography of the region. Featuring the multi-layered ‘cloud pool’ designed to mimic the surrounding terraced rice paddies, you’ll find your stresses simply melt away into thin air as you swim against a green and serene mountain valley backdrop. On occasion you’ll find yourself wrapped in a sea of white clouds, lending the phenomenon to the name of the pool. Take advantage of the private dining option that is sure not to miss – featuring dining next to the beautiful Pung waterfall, after a short stroll through the lantern-lit woods.
InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort
Perched on a lush hillside in the Son Tra Peninsula, this striking coastal retreat blends dramatic design with unspoiled nature. Created by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the resort cascades from mountain to sea across four levels—Heaven, Sky, Earth, and Sea—each with sweeping views of the East Sea. Soak in the beauty from the beachfront infinity pool or glide down the hillside on the charming Nam Tram funicular. For an unforgettable culinary experience, dine at La Maison 1888, Vietnam’s first Michelin-starred restaurant. With tropical jungle, rare wildlife, and a private bay, this is Vietnam at its most breathtaking.
Take Your Pick – Beaches Galore
Beaches are one of the most sought-after parts of Vietnam. With a coastline that makes up one entire side of the country it’s hard to find a beach you won’t like. Here are a few of the top beach picks that will keep you wanting more:
Quy Nhon
For a truly special honeymoon treat, why not try a luxury train from Hoi An down to the beautiful beachside town Quy Nhon. With turquoise blue waters and bright white sand lined in the background with rich greens from the jungle to the west, Quy Nhon is a traveler’s favourite to sit back, relax and enjoy a few beach days as a break from all the other activities Vietnam has to offer. Take in a tour around the town or just kick back beachside on the white sand and take the occasional dip in the sea in between tasty cocktails at one of the many bars and restaurants on offer. Hop aboard a snorkelling tour to get a taste of underwater Vietnam, and check out the nearby Ky Co island for some delicious, fresh seafood for a real local treat.
Con Dao Island
If you’re looking to add another cool stop to your honeymoon list, check out the idyllic southern Vietnamese island of Con Dao. Off the southern coast of the mainland, Con Dao is every beach lover’s dream featuring sandy beaches, fun bars and restaurants and beautiful coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. Turtles have been known to make their home on the shores of Bay Canh Island, a short boat ride away from the larger island of Con Dao, a stop you can make when island hopping on a boat tour of the area, perfect for couples to really get away from the busier mainland of Vietnam.
Nha Trang
East along the coast from Ho Chi Minh City is the small coastal town of Nah Trang. This beach town is hopping with a variety of things to do and is a great mix of both chilling out and taking on some cool activities. Take a trip to one of the nearby waterfalls such as the Fairy Spring Falls or Ba Ho, both a little out of town but definitely worth the trip for waterfall enthusiasts to to get a little hiking in. Water wise you can opt for sailing, snorkeling or diving along with just generally hitting up some of the gorgeous beaches to hang out for an afternoon. If you don’t mind getting a little dirty, hit up the Thap Ba Hot Springs and Mud Bath for an afternoon of total relaxation – a must see for any couple looking to connect and have a relaxing time on their honeymoon.
A Final Word
Whether it’s indulgent cuisine, luxurious stays, serene cruises, or sun-drenched beaches, Vietnam offers an unforgettable romantic escape for every kind of couple. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be swept up in the country’s beauty, charm, and hospitality. Choose this vibrant, soulful destination and you won’t just make memories—you’ll start a tradition. Years from now, you’ll look back on your Vietnamese adventure with a smile, reminiscing about the flavors, the landscapes, and the moments you shared… assuming, of course, you haven’t already returned for more.
Our Expert’s Picks:
- Majestic Vietnam Tour: perfect for honeymooners and active couple seeking a one-of-a-kind luxurious, adventures and culturally immersive Vietnam Holiday Experience
- Luxurious Vietnam: ideal for those seeking the finer things of life in a relaxed pace to capture Vietnam’s must-sees.
For additional holiday ideas and inspirations, check out our Vietnam Vacations page or contact us to design your very own romantic escape to Vietnam and beyond.
Specially written for EXPLORIENT.com
By: Erin Mandrusiak