The Ultimate Travel Guide to Vietnam: Culture, Cuisine & Hidden Gems

Food tour in Hanoi: You will never experience better street food than in Hanoi, the hustle and bustle of the scooters and people everywhere is something you have to experience first-hand. Hanoi is so quaint and full of culture, you do not feel like you are in a big city. Anytime we go back to Asia, we always make it a point to go to Hanoi for a night or two.

Postcards in Hanoi or Saigon: Make sure to stop at the post office to grab a postcard, these are great take-homes. I framed mine and hung them in my house!

Egg coffee and bai hoi: There are many amazing foods you will eat in Hanoi, but do not forget to try the egg coffee and bai hoi. I still think about the egg coffee every day and the bai hoi beer is something you cannot find anywhere else in the world. It is the perfect mix of fresh light beer that is always brewed daily—but only in Hanoi.

Explore the northern region either in Mai Chau or Sapa: We chose to explore Mai Chau as it was only a 3 hour drive from Hanoi. Mai Chau is exactly what you imagine when you think of rice fields, stilt houses, and true Vietnam culture. The northern Vietnam food is always amazing and different than other areas, so it is a must-try. They also have an MSG chili sauce we had every night that was to die for.

Explore the beach towns: There are many beach towns and areas you can go to for the beautiful water and to just cool off. We chose an area to the south of Hue and it was well worth it. With it being so hot in April, it was the perfect break in between our two-week trip.

Soak in the culture: Vietnam is a beautiful country, but really soak in the culture—the people are so warm and there is so much history everywhere you turn. It is truly an unforgettable place.

Café Minh, Hanoi: For the quintessential Vietnamese egg coffee, this cozy café blends strong espresso with creamy whipped egg yolk. It’s a local favorite and a must-try for first-timers.

Hanoi 1990s Café: Watch the iconic train pass just inches away while sipping a cold beer. It’s thrilling, surreal, and a uniquely Hanoi experience you won’t forget.

Snuffbox Speakeasy, Saigon: Hidden behind an unassuming door, this stylish speakeasy delivers inventive cocktails in a vintage, velvet-draped atmosphere. Perfect for a nightcap with character.

Bún Bò Huế Kim, Huế: As seen on Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, this humble eatery serves up what he called “the greatest soup in the world.” Spicy, rich, and unforgettable.

Bánh Mỳ Mama, Hanoi: For a quick, delicious bite, this spot serves some of the best bánh mì in town, crispy baguettes, savory fillings, and the perfect balance of textures.

Hanoi for Bia Hơi: Don’t leave without sitting on a plastic stool, beer in hand. Fresh, locally brewed bia hơi is light, cheap, and best enjoyed street-side with locals.