Creating an itinerary for Sri Lanka can be quite challenging. This incredibly beautiful island offers so many amazing destinations to choose from. We’ve visited Sri Lanka four times in recent years and have seen almost everything. To help you get started, we’ve mapped out the ultimate itinerary based on all those experiences, allowing you to make a diverse journey in two to four weeks. We’ve also written separate articles with tips for each destination on this itinerary, making planning your trip to Sri Lanka a breeze!

Transportation for this Sri Lanka itinerary

Sri Lanka is roughly the size of the Netherlands and Belgium combined. The distances are not too far, so you rarely have to travel long distances. Public transportation is very well organized and inexpensive. There are many good train connections, and buses run between all places. Private transport is also possible and affordable. All of this makes Sri Lanka a perfect country for a road trip.

Tip: Taxi drivers at the airport often quote outrageous prices, and after your flight, you probably don’t feel like negotiating right away. Therefore, it’s advisable to arrange a pickup in advance to start your journey relaxed. This way, you’ll save money and hassle. Someone will be waiting for you with a name sign, and you can hop in right away to head to your hotel. You can book your pickup here.

How Many Weeks Do You Need for the Sri Lanka Itinerary?

If you intend to complete the entire itinerary, you’ll need approximately three weeks. Although it may seem like many destinations, the distances are quite manageable, allowing you to see a lot. Of course, this depends on your travel pace, but considering all the activities, this timeframe is a good estimate.

Shortening the itinerary: If you have less time available, you’ll need to trim down the itinerary a bit. For instance, you could skip Anuradhapura, Wilpattu, and Sigiriya. You could also opt to visit only one beach destination. Finally, you could skip Nuwara Eliya as it’s similar to Ella. You may visit fewer places, but you’ll still have a fantastic and diverse journey.

Negombo

Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, it’s best to take a taxi straight to Negombo. The distance from the airport to Negombo is the same as to Colombo, so there’s no difference in travel time. We recommend Negombo because it’s a more pleasant city than Colombo. It’s quieter and has a cozier atmosphere. Here, you can unwind from your flight and get acquainted with Sri Lanka in a relaxed manner. Curious about what to do? Check out our tips for Negombo.

Starting your Sri Lanka journey right: The best tip for Negombo is to stay at Serendib Village. This delightful hotel features a pool, lovely rooms, and a great breakfast by the canal. It’s the perfect place to kickstart (and end) your journey and treat yourself to some affordable luxury. Book as soon as possible because this is one of the most popular hotels and tends to fill up early. So, it’s wise to make a reservation for the first and last nights of your trip right after booking your flights. When you book here, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Handy in case your travel plans change.

Anuradhapura

After a day in Negombo, kick off your Sri Lanka adventure with a journey to the ancient capital, Anuradhapura. Here, you’ll find dozens of massive ancient stupas and other sacred structures. Hop aboard a colorful tuk-tuk for a day exploring the highlights and learning all about the island’s rich history. Besides history, you’ll likely learn a lot about the unique culture. So, it’s a perfect destination to start your journey. Anuradhapura is similar to the temple city of Polonnaruwa, but we prefer Anuradhapura because you can easily combine it with the sacred mountain, Mihintale. This is a very special place for Buddhists as Buddhism in Sri Lanka began here. Check out our tips for Anuradhapura and Mihintale.
Travel time Negombo to Anuradhapura: 4 hours by bus

Day Trip: Wilpattu National Park

Sri Lanka is a land full of diversity, and you’ll experience this firsthand when you visit the nearby Wilpattu National Park after a day of temple hopping. This is the largest national park in the country and home to many animals. Sri Lanka is the best country in Asia for leopard sightings, and in Wilpattu National Park, you have a great chance of encountering these majestic creatures. This natural reserve is less crowded than the more famous Yala National Park, and that has its advantages. The nature is pristine, there’s no jeep traffic jams, and you can spot many animals. So, grab your camera and binoculars, get ready for a bumpy day, and an unforgettable experience. Check out our tips for Wilpattu National Park.

Sigiriya

You may know Sigiriya from the ‘Lion Rock,’ listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Lion Rock is a massive volcanic plug from a dormant volcano. Atop this rock once stood the palace of a king who -according to stories- enjoyed a lavish life with many women here. At the summit of the Lion Rock, you can find remnants of this royal palace from the 5th century. You can climb the Lion Rock or opt to climb the nearby Pidurangala Rock. From there, you’ll have a magnificent view of Lion Rock. Learn about the differences between these two rocks in the article with our tips for Sigiriya.

Travel time from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya: 1 hour by bus to Dambulla. From Dambulla, 30 minutes by tuktuk or bus to Sigiriya. Total travel time: 1.5 hours

Kandy

Kandy is the starting point for the famous train journey from Kandy to Ella. This 7-hour train ride takes you through the mountains of Sri Lanka. The views are amazing, ranging from green hills filled with tea plantations to waterfalls and small villages. Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, so be sure to spend a day exploring before hopping on the train to Ella. Visit the botanical garden, the Temple of the Tooth, and catch a traditional dance performance. A stroll around the lake and a visit to the market are also must-dos. Check out our tips for Kandy and our tips for the train journey from Kandy to Ella.
Travel time from Sigiriya to Kandy: 30 minutes by tuktuk or bus to Dambulla. From Dambulla, 2.5 hours by bus to Kandy. Total travel time: 3 hours

Optional: Nuwara Eliya

If you have enough time for your journey through Sri Lanka, you can split the train journey from Kandy to Ella in half and stay one or two nights in beautiful Nuwara Eliya. This place resembles a British village with its colonial buildings and neatly maintained English gardens, remnants of the British colonial period in the 19th century. That’s why Nuwara Eliya is also called ‘Little England.’ The town is located in the highlands, where it’s often cooler than the rest of Sri Lanka. This region has the perfect climate for growing tea, and you’ll find endless rolling hills with green tea plantations in the area. The surroundings aren’t just tea plantations; from Nuwara Eliya, you can also visit some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Check out our tips for Nuwara Eliya.
Travel time from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya: 4 hours by train

Ella

Ella is a small village nestled in the mountains of Sri Lanka and one of our favorite destinations on this Sri Lanka itinerary. The surroundings are stunning, with many viewpoints, waterfalls, and tea plantations to explore. This is definitely a place where you’ll want to linger for a while, especially because you can find beautiful accommodations with views of the valley and surrounding mountains. A visit to the famous Nine Arch Bridge is a must, and for those up for a challenge, there’s the hike to Ella Rock. Curious about what else there is to do? Check out our tips for Ella.
Travel time from Kandy to Ella: 7 hours by train
Travel time from Nuwara Eliya to Ella: 3 hours by train

Yala National Park / Tissamaharama

The journey continues south towards Tissamaharama, which everyone conveniently shortens to Tissa. From Tissa, you can visit Yala National Park, a natural area with diverse landscapes, flora, and fauna. In addition to the majestic leopards, you also have a good chance of spotting elephants, monkeys, bears, crocodiles, and many different birds. Be sure to also visit the lake near Tissa for a beautiful walk during sunset and keep an eye out for huge bats hanging upside down in the trees. Check out our tips for Tissamaharama and our tips for a safari through Yala National Park.
Travel time from Ella to Tissamaharama: 3 hours by bus

Hiriketiya

Hiriketiya Beach is one of the coolest beach destinations in Sri Lanka. This beach is located in the small village of Dikwella on the south coast of Sri Lanka and has created its own image over the years, making it more popular than Dikwella itself. Despite Hiriketiya Beach’s small size, it’s a popular spot for surfers and beach lovers looking for a lively atmosphere. Around ‘Hiri,’ as this place is affectionately shortened, you’ll find numerous good restaurants, cozy beach bars, surf schools, and great accommodations. After all the traveling, it’s wonderful to spend a few days here enjoying the sun, sea, beach, and palm trees. Check out our tips for Hiriketiya.
Travel time from Tissamaharama (Yala National Park) to Hiriketiya: 2 hours by bus

Skipped in this itinerary: Mirissa

In the south of Sri Lanka, there are many beach destinations, with Mirissa being one of the most famous. For years, we included this destination in the itinerary, but after our most recent trip, we decided to replace Mirissa with Ahangama. Not because Mirissa isn’t fun anymore, but because you probably have to make choices unless you have four weeks. Mirissa has become quite crowded, and Ahangama now has that nice atmosphere that Mirissa had before it got busier. Mirissa is still a nice and beautiful beach destination, but for that ultimate relaxed atmosphere, we recommend staying in Ahangama and visiting Mirissa as a day trip. Check out our tips for Mirissa.

Ahangama

Ahangama is a delightful upcoming beach destination and a must-stop during your tour of Sri Lanka. It offers fantastic surfing, lively parties, and despite being in its infancy in terms of tourism, there are dozens of excellent restaurants to discover. With the sea in your front yard and rice fields in your backyard, Ahangama has everything to offer for a delightful time. This is the perfect place to unwind a bit, especially nearing the end of your tour. Check out our tips for Ahangama.
Travel time from Hiriketiya to Ahangama: 1.5 hours by bus.

Galle

Your cultural journey through Sri Lanka is incomplete without visiting Galle. Not many people know that Sri Lanka was once a Dutch colony. In the 17th century, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) built their fort in Galle on the Sri Lankan coastline, which was later taken over by the British. The tsunami of 2004 severely affected Sri Lanka, but Galle Fort stood firm against this natural disaster with its high city walls. Nowadays, the fort has been transformed into a charming town. You can visit Galle as a day trip from Ahangama or Mirissa, but it’s also enjoyable to stay overnight here to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere, especially in the evening. Explore our tips for Galle.
Travel time from Ahangama to Galle: 40 minutes by bus.

Tip: Our favorite spots in Sri Lanka

During our travels through Sri Lanka, we always seek out unique accommodations. They don’t necessarily have to be expensive hotels; they just need to have something special that enhances your stay. Think of a beautiful boutique hotel with a fantastic view of the rice fields or a guesthouse run by a super hospitable family. We’ve compiled all these spots into one article featuring our favorite spots in Sri Lanka. These are all delightful accommodations that will make your trip extra special and where you’re guaranteed to have a great time.

The post The Ultimate Itinerary for Sri Lanka + Tips appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.

Are you planning a trip to Malaysia and looking for an exciting itinerary? You’ve come to the right place! With our itinerary, you’ll explore the most beautiful destinations in the country and easily plan your adventure. You’ll visit the oldest rainforest in the world, explore bustling cities, and relax on idyllic beaches. Malaysia is one of the wealthiest countries in Southeast Asia, not only in terms of prosperity but also in terms of nature and culture. Moreover, traveling around Malaysia is safe and convenient, making it a popular travel destination. Check out the tips and itinerary below to kickstart your adventure!

How many weeks do you need for this itinerary?

In our opinion, three weeks is the perfect duration for a trip to Malaysia. This itinerary is tailored to a three-week journey, but if you have less time, you can easily skip some parts and shorten the itinerary. If you have more time, you can extend the itinerary. At the bottom, we’ll also share an alternative itinerary that you can combine with the base itinerary if you have more time.

Starting Your Itinerary in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur

Most people begin their journey through Malaysia in the capital, Kuala Lumpur, but we think it’s a great idea to start your trip in neighboring Singapore. This ultra-modern metropolis is a fantastic addition to your journey and serves as a perfect starting point for our travel itinerary. Starting in Kuala Lumpur is also an option, but beginning in Singapore makes your itinerary a bit more efficient. You’ll travel in one direction from there, and you’ll also get to explore an additional exciting city during your journey. To get an idea of what’s to see and do, you can check out our tips for Singapore. From Singapore, you’ll head north, visiting all the beautiful places in Malaysia, with the final destination being Langkawi Island. From there, you can often find affordable flights back to either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, depending on your chosen starting point.

Melaka

Between the two metropolises of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur lies the charming city of Melaka, which we consider a must-visit during your Malaysian journey. In the beautiful historic center, you can see the influences of various rulers throughout history, including the Chinese, Portuguese, English, and even the Dutch. The architecture is a melting pot of different styles as a result. Moreover, Melaka offers plenty of exciting activities, with the famous Jonker Street Night Market being a highlight that takes place on weekends. Here, you can tantalize your taste buds with delicious local dishes and enjoy live music. Check out our tips for the best things to do in Melaka.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur reflects the rich culture of the country and is adorned with modern skyscrapers and architecture. Due to its high standard of living, many immigrants, primarily from China and India, have settled in Malaysia. This has created a blend of cultures that offers the city a wide range of attractions. You can visit beautiful Chinese and Hindu temples and even go hiking in the jungle. Kuala Lumpur has something for everyone. Curious about what to do? Check out our tips for Kuala Lumpur.

Taman Negara

After visiting three cities, it’s time for some variety! Taman Negara National Park, located in Central Malaysia, is the oldest rainforest in the world and a dream destination for nature lovers. The lush jungle covers an area of over 4,000 square kilometers (1544 square miles) and is estimated to be around 150 million years old. Taman Negara is not only a home to ancient trees and plants but also to various animal species such as elephants, tigers, and bears. During your visit to the park, you’re unlikely to encounter these large animals, but you’ll frequently spot a variety of birds, monkeys, and reptiles. Taman Negara can be explored in many different ways. Check out our tips for Taman Negara National Park to explore all the possibilities.

Cameron Highlands

After the dense jungle, it’s time to visit the highlands of Malaysia. The Cameron Highlands, located in central Malaysia, feature a unique landscape of rolling green hills covered with tea plantations. In 1885, this area was discovered by British expedition leader William Cameron, and since then, many British settlers have made it their home due to the cooler climate. The low temperatures not only provided a pleasant living environment but were also ideal for tea production. As a result, the Cameron Highlands has become the largest tea plantation in Malaysia. You can go on beautiful short hikes through mysterious misty forests full of moss and right through the numerous plantations. Find out which hikes you shouldn’t miss in our article with tips for the Cameron Highlands.

Penang (George Town)

Penang is one of the most delightful and diverse destinations on this Malaysian itinerary. The island is known for its unique blend of cultures, as well as its lush nature, beautiful temples, and fascinating history. In the distant past, Penang served as a significant trading hub for Europe, the Middle East, China, and India. Traders brought their customs, resulting in a melting pot of cultures that you can still experience today. You’ll find Buddhist temples, mosques, Christian churches, and Hindu shrines all close to each other. You can also see and taste these cultures at the numerous street food markets in the capital, Georgetown. Check out our tips for Penang to see what the island has to offer.

Langkawi

To conclude your itinerary through Malaysia, enjoy a few days on a tropical island. Langkawi Island is located in the northern part of Malaysia and is the main island of the archipelago of the same name, consisting of 99 islands. Langkawi is a diverse island with a wide range of things to see and do. From beautiful mangrove forests where you can spot a lot of wildlife to pristine white beaches with turquoise blue water. Renting a scooter and exploring the island’s most beautiful spots is a fantastic experience. If you’re curious about what to do, where to eat, and where to stay, read all about it in our article packed with tips for Langkawi!

Flying Back to Kuala Lumpur or Singapore

From Langkawi, you can travel all the way back south by boat and bus, but for just a few dollars, you can also fly directly to Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Alternative Itinerary for Malaysia

If you prefer to go a bit more off the beaten track, consider visiting the Perhentian Islands instead of the more popular Langkawi. These islands are much less developed and offer a paradise on earth. You can enjoy fantastic snorkeling and diving among colorful corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles. The Perhentian Islands are mostly covered in jungle, palm trees, and pristine white beaches. There are no roads on the islands, and the only motorized transportation is the water taxis. This is the perfect place to relax completely. Afterward, you can travel to Penang, and from there, you can either head back south or, if you have enough time, even visit Langkawi. Below, you’ll find a map of this alternative itinerary.

The Perhentian Islands are sometimes closed: From mid-October to mid-March is the monsoon season on the east coast of Malaysia, and during this time, almost everything on these islands is closed. From mid-March to mid-October, everything is open, and you can travel to the Perhentian Islands. July and August are the best months to visit the Perhentian Islands, although they are also the busiest months, though it’s never really crowded on the islands.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Malaysia

During your journey through Malaysia, you’ll probably want to stay in beautiful accommodations that offer great value for your money. A nice place to stay can enhance your travel experience, but finding the best places can be time-consuming. To make it easier for you, we’ve curated a selection of our favorite places to stay in Malaysia. From a boutique hotel in an old mansion to a bungalow right on an idyllic beach or even a hostel that organizes fun activities, we’ve got you covered.

The post The Ultimate Itinerary for Malaysia + Tips appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.

Creating an itinerary for Vietnam can be a bit complex as it’s a vast country with many beautiful places to choose from. We’ve put together an exciting itinerary full of tips that will take you to all the highlights of Vietnam. You’ll journey through the expansive rice terraces in the north, the impressive Halong Bay, vibrant cities, charming Hoi An, and the authentic Mekong Delta. If you have more time, we’ll also suggest a few other beautiful destinations at the bottom that you can add to or adjust in your itinerary.

Determining the Direction of Your Vietnam Itinerary

When traveling through Vietnam, you can choose to visit the north, the south, or both. Most travelers opt to explore both the north and the south to experience the country’s diversity fully. With this itinerary, you’ll be covering the entire country.

You can start your journey in either Hanoi in the north or Ho Chi Minh City in the south, as both cities have international airports. Generally, people find the north of Vietnam a bit more picturesque than the south, which you can consider when deciding on your travel direction. Another factor to consider is the price of flight tickets. Sometimes, it’s cheaper to fly to Hanoi, and other times, it’s more affordable to choose Ho Chi Minh City. Ideally, you can fly into one city and depart from the other, saving you the need for an additional domestic flight. We’ve chosen to plan the itinerary from north to south, but you can easily reverse it to fit your preferences.

How Does Transportation Work in Vietnam?

Vietnam stretches for about 1,600 kilometers (994 miles) from the extreme north to the far south. You can travel across Vietnam by bus, train, or airplane, depending on the route. Buses run between all destinations, and for longer journeys, you can often take a night bus or night train. This way, you can sleep comfortably, save money on hotels, and find it less tiring than traveling during the day. For longer distances, you can also opt for a flight, although this is usually a bit more expensive. You can arrange transportation locally or book online. The advantage of booking online is that you can compare all providers and options, read reviews, and be sure you’re paying a fair price.

Tip: We’ve written separate articles about almost all the places on this Vietnam itinerary, providing tips for the most enjoyable activities and how to get there from various other destinations. These articles include all the options and travel durations.

How Many Weeks Do You Need for This Vietnam Itinerary?

To complete this entire Vietnam itinerary, you’ll need about three weeks. If you have less time, you can skip some destinations. If you have more time or want to explore more of the north, you’ll find additional tips for beautiful destinations to expand your itinerary at the end of this article. Read our articles with tips for these destinations to easily decide how to allocate your days among the various places.

Hanoi

Hanoi is the bustling capital of Vietnam and a great introduction to the country due to its abundance of exciting activities and attractions. You may experience a bit of a cultural shock as Hanoi is quite a chaotic city. On every street corner, you’ll find street food stalls, and scooters zoom in all directions around you. Start your journey with a cool street food tour or seek tranquility in one of the many temples, such as the enchanting Temple of Literature. Curious about what else there is to do? Check out all the tips for Hanoi.

Sapa

After a few days getting used to Hanoi, it’s time to leave the hustle and bustle behind and travel to the green mountain village of Sapa. Sapa is located in the far north, nestled among mountains covered in gigantic rice terraces. It’s the perfect destination for a beautiful hike. Walk along viewpoints, through valleys with authentic villages, and take a dip in a waterfall. Make sure to also take a ride on the longest non-stop cable car in the world, then stand on the highest peak in Vietnam. Interested in what else there is to do? Read about the 10 best things to do in Sapa.

Note: It’s best to visit Sapa only from June to September. In May, farmers plant new rice, and from that point on, the rice terraces become greener. September offers the most beautiful views of the rice terraces. Sapa is not recommended in the winter months when it’s very cold, the landscapes are bare, and it’s often foggy.

Halong Bay & Cat Ba

Halong Bay is one of the most iconic destinations in Vietnam, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes. The rock formations, nearly 500 million years old, form an archipelago of thousands of small islands. These rocks were once part of a gigantic coral reef, and some are hundreds of feet high. Cat Ba is the largest island in Halong Bay and the most common base for visiting the bay. The best way to explore Halong Bay is on a one- or two-day cruise. Get on board the boat and enjoy the beauty that Halong Bay has to offer. It’s most enjoyable to join a cruise that also visits lesser-known spots. That’s how you experience the best of Halong Bay. Find out which one in the article with tips for Halong Bay.

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is an enchanting province and an absolute must-visit during your journey through Vietnam. Amidst the rock formations, sometimes towering up to 200 meters (656 feet), you’ll find green rice fields, rivers, lakes, and caves. In Ninh Binh, you’ll completely relax and experience the authentic countryside life of Vietnam. Hop on a bike or scooter and explore the winding roads that meander through the rice fields. The nature in Ninh Binh is breathtaking, and life there is delightfully uncomplicated. Among the rice fields, you’ll find the most beautiful accommodations, often with a spectacular view. All of this makes Ninh Binh one of the most enjoyable places on your Vietnam itinerary. Check out the tips for Ninh Binh to make the most of your visit.

Phong Nha

From here, your journey to Hoi An in central Vietnam begins. You can cover this long journey by night train or easily divide it into two parts by planning a visit to Phong Nha on your itinerary. Here, you can visit two impressive caves named Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave. You can rent a scooter and explore the caves on your own or book the combination tour where you visit both caves. This includes transportation, admission, and lunch.

Tip: In Phong Nha, you can stay at a special place called Karst Villas Phong Nha. From here, you’ll have a breathtaking view from the pool over the landscape.

Hoi An

Hoi An is the favorite city of most travelers in Vietnam. It’s a small town by Vietnamese standards that offers the best of both worlds. You’ll find the charm of the old town but also a beautiful beach, and within 15 minutes, you’ll be in the middle of rice fields. Here, you can seek both the hustle and tranquility. Hoi An exudes atmosphere and coziness with its beautiful historical houses, colorful lanterns, numerous excellent restaurants, and lovely shops. Curious about what Hoi An has to offer? I’ve listed the best things to do in Hoi An for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re visiting the southern part of Vietnam, you can’t miss Ho Chi Minh City. It’s the largest city in the country with a population of 9 million. Don’t spend too much time here because it’s not the most exciting city. District 1 is a popular district among travelers, and you’ll find most of the attractions, restaurants, bars, and hotels here. End your day in Ho Chi Minh City with a cocktail at one of the rooftop bars. From here, you’ll have a view of the entire metropolis as the sun slowly sets. Check out all the tips for Ho Chi Minh City.

Mekong Delta

After a day in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s time to escape the hustle and bustle, and the best way to do that is in the Mekong Delta. This is a unique water landscape consisting of hundreds of small rivers. People here mainly live on and along the water. You’ll find floating markets where various food items like coconuts, fish, meat, and fruit are traded. It’s a unique destination that you shouldn’t miss if you want to experience the real life of Vietnam. Cycle along the canals and over small bridges and wave to the friendly locals you’ll encounter everywhere. It’s best to stay on the outskirts of Can Tho. There, you’ll find some beautiful small-scale hotels located by the water where you can experience an oasis of tranquility. Read all the tips for the Mekong Delta to make the most of your visit.

Other Exciting Destinations for Your Vietnam Itinerary

For the above Vietnam itinerary, you’ll need about three weeks. This, of course, depends on your travel style and pace. If you want to customize or expand this itinerary, there are more exciting destinations in Vietnam to consider. You can choose to explore more of the north or the south. Below, we’ll suggest a few beautiful destinations that you can add to or adjust your Vietnam itinerary.

Phu Quoc

If you want to end your journey through Vietnam on a pristine white beach with azure blue waters, plan a few more days on the island of Phu Quoc on your itinerary. It’s located at the southernmost point of Vietnam, and you can fly there from Ho Chi Minh City, for example. As soon as you set foot on the island, the enjoyment begins. Go island hopping and snorkeling for a day or just relax at one of the beach clubs. If you have the time, Phu Quoc is a delightful way to end your trip! Check out all the tips for Phu Quoc to get a good impression of the island.

Ha Giang Loop

If you want to explore more of northern Vietnam in an adventurous way, Ha Giang is the perfect destination for this. Here, you can embark on the famous Ha Giang Loop by motorcycle, taking a cool road trip through various small villages. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the rugged mountain landscapes. You can rent a motorcycle yourself, or you can ride with an “easy rider,” which is a typical Vietnamese concept where you travel with a guide on the back of their motorcycle. This is often done in groups, making it a fun road trip with plenty of beautiful stops and enjoyable evenings. Check out all the tips for the Ha Giang Loop.

Cao Bang

In the far north, near the border of China, lies the lush province of Cao Bang. This province is quite remote, but the impressive Ban Gioc Waterfall and Phong Nam Valley make it well worth the trip. Here, you’ll truly venture off the beaten path, encountering few English speakers. There’s still much to discover, and it doesn’t get much more authentic than this. Check out our tips for Cao Bang to get a good sense of this unique destination.

Mui Ne

If you choose to travel overland from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City, a stop in Mui Ne is recommended. This way, you can split the journey in two and visit this fishing village with its vast sand dunes. It’s also a popular spot among surfers and windsurfers. Even if you have no experience with (wind)surfing, it can be fun to take a lesson here and brave the waves. Check out all the tips for Mui Ne if you want to add this stop to your southern Vietnam itinerary.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

During all our travels, we search for the most pleasant and unique places to stay. Vietnam is a fantastic destination in this regard because here, you can sleep at unique locations with stunning views for relatively little money. We’ve already compiled a list of our favorite accommodations in Vietnam by destination. We always recommend a cozy hostel and a special hotel for those looking for a bit more luxury. Staying at these delightful accommodations will surely enhance your trip!

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