Embark on the Journey of a Lifetime Across Vietnam—A Soul-Stirring 20-Day Adventure from South to North
Vietnam is a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, ancient heritage, and warm hospitality. For European travelers looking for a profound and immersive experience, the “Vietnam In Depth 20-Day Tour” is your golden ticket. Spanning from the southern metropolises to the northern highlands, this expertly curated journey offers cultural enrichment, historical intrigue, and natural beauty. August is the perfect time to witness Vietnam in its lush green glory after the summer rains, especially with fewer crowds and milder highland weather.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?
Ideal Months for a North-to-South Journey: March–April and October–November
If you're planning a cross-country trip from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (or vice versa), the spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) months are widely considered the best times to visit. During these months:
- The weather is mild and dry in most regions.
- Temperatures are comfortable, not too hot or cold.
- Scenic landscapes are at their greenest and most photogenic.
- Fewer chances of storms or heavy rains, especially in the north and central coast.
Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam: Top Places You Shouldn’t Miss
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Vibrant Heart of South Vietnam
As Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City—still affectionately known as Saigon—offers a compelling blend of old-world charm and modern vitality. This southern city is a gateway to both history and innovation, where high-end rooftop bars overlook colonial churches, and street food stalls coexist with luxury boutiques.
Travelers can dive into the culture, cuisine, and character of the city through its many must-see attractions:
- War Remnants Museum - A powerful exhibit documenting the Vietnam War through local eyes
- Thien Hau Pagoda - One of the oldest Chinese temples in the city, rich in incense and heritage
- Dong Khoi Street & Ben Thanh Market - Great for shopping, souvenirs, and people-watching
- Saigon by Night Vespa Street Food Tour - Explore the city's nightlife and authentic street eats on a vintage Vespa
- A O Show at Saigon Opera House - A visually stunning cultural performance combining acrobatics, bamboo circus, and traditional Vietnamese music
Gateway to the Mekong Delta and cultural hub of South Vietnam, Saigon is the perfect starting point for your journey through the country.
Thien Hau Pagoda War Remnants Museum
Tay Ninh & Cu Chi Tunnels – A Journey Through Vietnam’s Spiritual and Wartime Past
Just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City lies a powerful combination of spirituality and history.
In Tay Ninh, witness the fascinating midday ceremony at the Cao Dai Temple, center of the unique Cao Dai religion, which blends elements of Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Confucianism in vibrant, color-rich rituals.
Then head to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Crawl through tight passageways, see hidden trapdoors, and understand the resilience and ingenuity of Vietnamese fighters during wartime.
Cao Dai Temple Cu Chi Tunnels
Mekong Delta Exploration – Cai Be to Can Tho
Often called the "Rice Bowl of Vietnam," the Mekong Delta is a vast, fertile region crisscrossed by rivers, canals, and lush rice paddies. A visit to this region offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life that has thrived here for centuries—one that revolves entirely around the water.
Begin your journey in Cai Be, where you can cruise along narrow canals and visit family-run workshops producing puffed rice, coconut candy, and rice paper. Wander through fruit orchards and experience the peaceful rhythm of rural life.
Continue to Can Tho, the Delta’s largest city, to witness the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, where local vendors sell fruits, vegetables, and goods directly from their boats at sunrise. It’s a colorful, sensory-rich spectacle unique to this part of the world.
Cai Rang Floating Market