Compelling Cities & Historic Small Towns of Vietnam

Where Timeless Traditions Meet Modern Marvels

From dynamic megacities that overwhelm the senses to quaint villages steeped in heritage, Vietnam’s urban landscape is a stunning portrait of compelling contrasts. Each city tells a unique story—one shaped by dynasties, colonial encounters, wars, and modern revival. With every turn, travellers are immersed in ancient traditions, vibrant cultures, and a remarkable blend of East and West. Whether you’re marvelling at imperial relics or wandering through lantern-lit alleyways, Vietnam’s cities are destinations where the past and present coexist in captivating harmony.

Hanoi — A capital of past and present

Vietnam’s heart and soul, Hanoi, is a city where the rhythms of daily life beat to the echoes of centuries past. This capital traces its roots to the 7^th century when the Chinese Tang dynasty established a stronghold here. The city’s strategic location on the Red River made it a cultural and political hub early on. After regaining independence in the 10^th century, Emperor Lý Thái Tổ famously moved the capital to what was then called Thăng Long—“The City of the Ascending Dragon”, a name inspired by a vision of a dragon rising from the river. That vision would shape the city’s identity for generations.

For over a millennium, Hanoi has been the cradle of Vietnamese civilization. Today, its historical roots are still on full display. Wander through the Old Quarter, where every winding alley is named after the trade that once flourished there—Tin Street, Silk Street, Paper Street. Hear the call of street vendors, sip egg coffee on tiny stools, and feel the buzz of daily life in motion.

Step into the French Quarter for a complete contrast: wide boulevards, grandiose villas, and the stately Hanoi Opera House reflect its colonial chapter. Nearby, Hoan Kiem Lake offers a peaceful reprieve, and the legend of the magical sword returned to the Golden Turtle God is still told with reverence. Don’t miss the Temple of Literature—founded in 1070 and home to the nation’s first university—an enduring symbol of Vietnamese respect for education. Hanoi is where tradition meets transition, and it wears both with grace and charm.

Ho Chi Minh City — From Saigon to modern metropolis

Once a quiet Khmer fishing village nestled along the banks of the Saigon River, today’s Ho Chi Minh City is a high-octane blend of ancient culture and glass-clad modernity. The city’s name may have changed, but its layered past is ever-present. After its incorporation into Vietnam in the 17^th century, it grew in importance under the Nguyen Lords before becoming a key colonial outpost under French rule in 1859. Renamed Saigon, it became the glittering “Pearl of the Orient”—a centre of trade, fashion, and colonial elegance.

After decades of upheaval, the city witnessed dramatic change during the Vietnam War, eventually falling to North Vietnamese troops in 1975 and being renamed in honour of revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. Yet locals still affectionately call it Saigon—a name that speaks to its layered history and enduring spirit.

Today, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with unstoppable energy. The skyline rises with ambition, while the old city whispers from colonial buildings and incense-laden temples. From trendy rooftop bars to humble bánh mì stalls, every corner reveals the city’s dynamic soul. Visit Cho Lon, the city’s sprawling Chinatown, to experience bustling markets and age-old temples. The Thiên Hậu Pagoda is a standout, devoted to the sea goddess revered by generations of Chinese immigrants.

In the city centre, the Reunification Palace offers insight into Vietnam’s modern political history, while the red-brick Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office are iconic reminders of the French era. As night falls, the city comes alive with jazz bars, night markets, and lively cafés where the locals toast to life with iced coffee or Saigon beer. Ho Chi Minh City doesn’t just embrace the future—it races toward it.

Imperial City of Hue — A royal legacy on the Perfume River

Nestled between rolling hills and bordered by the poetic Perfume River, Hue remains one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric cities. As the imperial capital from 1802 to 1945, Hue was the seat of the Nguyen dynasty, the last imperial rulers of Vietnam. Even today, the air feels quieter here—steeped in reverence, tradition, and the gentle rhythms of a bygone era.

The Perfume River earned its name from the fragrant blossoms that fall into its waters during the autumn season, carried down from orchards upstream. This slow-moving river divides the city in two, reflecting the red-capped pavilions of ancient temples and the golden glow of sunset on citadel walls.

Hue’s centrepiece is the Imperial City, a vast, moated complex inspired by China’s Forbidden City. Step through the imposing Noon Gate and into a world of emperors, scholars, mandarins, and courtesans. Wander past crumbling gates, delicate pagodas, and ornate palaces that speak to both grandeur and ruin. Visit the Flag Tower, the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and the Forbidden Purple City—once off-limits to all but the imperial family.

Beyond the citadel, Hue offers rich spiritual and cultural encounters. Float down the river by dragon boat to the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady (Thien Mu), perched elegantly on a bluff. Explore the tombs of emperors like Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, where royal opulence meets natural serenity. At the bustling Dong Ba market, sample delicacies unique to Hue’s imperial cuisine, such as bánh bèo or cơm hến (clam rice). For those seeking Vietnam’s more introspective side, Hue offers poetry in architecture, food, and spirit.

Charming Hoi An — A living museum of lights and trade

Hoi An is a place where time pauses—where heritage lives in the woodwork and lanterns float like fireflies in the dusk. Once a major international port between the 15^th and 19^th centuries, Hoi An welcomed Japanese, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese merchants who traded silks, spices, and ceramics. Over the years, these influences blended into a uniquely harmonious architectural and cultural style—preserved so well that the Old Town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stroll through cobbled lanes lined with timber-framed buildings, pastel façades, and wooden-shuttered windows. Admire ancient merchant homes, ornate assembly halls, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge—a graceful 18^th-century structure that blends Buddhist, Shinto, and Confucian elements in one.

The Thu Bon River, once the artery of the region’s maritime trade, still winds through the town centre. Take a riverboat ride at dusk and watch as candle-lit lanterns are floated in the water for good fortune. The town’s lantern tradition is protected by law—each building is required to display at least one lantern, creating a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere at night.

Hoi An is also known for its tailoring traditions. Within 24 hours, travellers can have custom garments made by expert tailors whose skills have been passed down for generations. Don’t miss the town’s famed food scene, either—Hoi An is home to signature dishes like cao lầu noodles, white rose dumplings, and crispy bánh xèo.

Beyond the historic district, bicycle into the surrounding countryside, where lush rice paddies, quiet fishing villages, and hidden temples complete the picture. With a pace as slow as its river, Hoi An offers a gentle, deeply romantic side of Vietnam that lingers long after you leave.