Vietnam Travel: A Swiss Couple’s Unforgettable 15-Day Journey Across the Country

Vietnam travel offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a land of rich culture, vibrant cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. In this travel diary, we – a Swiss couple – share our unforgettable 15-day journey across Vietnam, from the ancient capital of Hanoi to the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta.

Day 1–3: Hanoi – The Cultural Heart of Vietnam

Our Vietnam travel adventure began in Hanoi, a city that beautifully blends ancient traditions with modern life. Wandering through the Old Quarter, we savored local street food like phở, bún chả, and fried spring rolls – flavors unlike anything we’d ever tried.

A peaceful morning at Hoan Kiem Lake gave us a glimpse of the city’s soul. Misty air hovered over the water as we visited Ngoc Son Temple, where we learned about Vietnam’s spiritual beliefs and legends. Later, the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, impressed us with its historical importance and serene beauty.

Day 4–5: Ninh Binh – Vietnam’s Hidden Gem

A few hours south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh captivated us with its natural splendor. Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” it offered some of the most scenic river views we’ve ever seen. Our boat ride in Trang An took us through limestone caves and emerald waters, flanked by rice fields and dramatic karsts – a highlight of our Vietnam travel itinerary.

Day 6–7: Ha Long Bay – A Natural Wonder

Next, we journeyed to Ha Long Bay, one of the most iconic Vietnam travel destinations. Cruising through thousands of limestone islands, we were awestruck by the surreal seascape. The quiet beauty and scale of the bay made this a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 8–9: Mai Chau – Cultural Immersion in the Countryside

In Mai Chau, we stayed with a Thai ethnic minority family in a stilt house, enjoying traditional dances like the bamboo pole dance and the graceful Xoe dance. The peaceful valley, combined with the warm hospitality of locals, made this rural escape one of our favorite stops.

Day 10–11: Hue – Discovering Vietnam’s Imperial Past

In the imperial city of Hue, we explored the Citadel, ancient royal tombs, and the serene Perfume River. A boat ride at night, with floating lanterns and live Hue folk music, added a magical touch to our Vietnam travel story.

Day 12–13: Hoi An – A Town of Timeless Charm

Hoi An greeted us with romantic alleys, historic architecture, and glowing lanterns. Strolling along the Thu Bon River at night felt like being in a fairy tale. Its calm, picturesque atmosphere made us fall in love with Vietnam even more.

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City – A Modern Metropolis

Our Vietnam travel journey took a lively turn in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon. Skyscrapers, rooftop cafés, and bustling streets stood in contrast to the historic sites like the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

Day 15: Mekong Delta – Life on the River

Our final day brought us to the Mekong Delta, where we visited floating markets, local farms, and traditional craft villages. The people here were incredibly warm and generous. We ended our trip feasting on local specialties like grilled snakehead fish and crispy bánh xèo.

Final Thoughts on Vietnam Travel

Vietnam travel gave us a diverse and deeply moving experience. From the food and history to the landscapes and culture, every destination told a unique story. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Vietnam is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.

If you’re planning your Vietnam travel itinerary, we truly hope our journey offers valuable insight and inspiration for your own adventure. Whether you’re drawn by the rich cultural heritage of ancient cities like Hanoi and Hue, the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh, or the warm hospitality in villages like Mai Chau and the Mekong Delta, Vietnam has something for every type of traveler.