An insider's guide to Vietnam: where to stay, eat and explore five destinations like a local

From Hanoi’s coffee culture to Phu Quoc’s seaside sunsets, here's how to experience Vietnam with Hilton as your base
Da Nang
Photograph: Shutterstock | Da Nang
Time Out Asia in partnership with Hilton
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Few countries reward slow travel quite like Vietnam. Stretching from the cultural heart of the north to the tropical shores of the south, every stop unveils a new side of the country, from centuries-old neighbourhoods and emerald seascapes to vibrant cities and golden beaches. 

This 11-day itinerary follows Vietnam's natural rhythm, taking you on an easy journey from Hanoi all the way to Phu Quoc. Along the way, you'll trade the capital's buzz for the restorative calm of Quang Hanh's mineral-rich hot springs, swap mountain landscapes for Da Nang's coastline, soak up the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, then round off your adventure on Vietnam's idyllic island paradise. It's a route that's nicely paced, letting you savour each destination before moving on, with Hilton hotels providing perfectly placed bases every step of the way.

Day 1 to 3: Hanoi

Ease into your Vietnam adventure at Hilton Garden Inn Hanoi, where French-Indochinese architecture, cosy contemporary rooms, a relaxing spa and Together & Co.'s authentic Hanoi cuisine make for a welcoming first stop. The hotel sits just outside the Old Quarter, giving you easy access to the city's biggest sights without being caught in the thick of the crowds.

Rise early the next day for a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake before weaving through the Old Quarter's historic lanes, stopping for Hanoi's famous egg coffee in the French Quarter. Come lunchtime, join locals over steaming bowls of pho with rare beef cuts at the Michelin-worthy Phở Khôi Hói and smoky bun cha at Bún Chả Que Tre, or roll your own lemongrass pork rice paper rolls at Tung’s Kitchen. Then browse Dong Xuan Market and the surrounding artisan boutiques for handcrafted ceramics, silk and lacquerware before heading back to recharge.

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Day 3 to 5: Quang Hanh and Ha Long

After the energy of Hanoi, slow down with a stay at Hilton Quang Hanh Onsen Resort, Southeast Asia's first Hilton onsen resort. Every villa comes with its own private natural hot spring bath and sauna, making it the perfect place to recharge between destinations. 

Spend your morning cruising through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay before exploring the bayfront streets of Hon Gai and bustling Bai Chay. Freshly grilled seafood is a must while you're here, so treat yourself to a full spread at Bien 14 Seafood Buffet Restaurant. 

Just 10 minutes away from the hotel, the 700-year-old Cua Ong Temple in nearby Cam Pha is a sight to behold with sweeping views of Bai Tu Long Bay. For a restorative soak, slip into the mineral-rich hot spings at Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh. Before leaving, swing by Ha Long Night Market for local snacks, handmade souvenirs and gifts to take home.

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Day 5 to 6: Da Nang (Beach)

Swap dramatic limestone landscapes for golden sands at Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang, where uninterrupted ocean views, a rooftop pool and My Khe Beach on your doorstep make slowing down effortless. You’ll also want to wake up early for the sunrise yoga session on the fitness deck.

Start your day with a morning stroll by the beach before exploring the Marble Mountains' ancient caves and temples. Then reward yourself with a bowl of mi quang and a feast of freshly caught seafood along the coast. For a bit of shopping, wander down Tran Phu Street, where you’ll find everything from artisanal Vietnamese chocolates at Marou to bargains at Han Market. Explore more of Da Nang here.

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Day 6 to 7: Da Nang (City)

For a completely different side of Da Nang, check into Hilton Da Nang, whose sail-inspired design overlooks the Han River and places you within walking distance of the Dragon Bridge, Han Market and the city's vibrant dining scene. 

Spend the afternoon wandering the riverside promenade and APEC Sculpture Park before tucking into street food at Con Market or mì quảng served in traditional bamboo baskets at Nu ĐỒ Kitchen. For something more indulgent, book a table at the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Central Vietnam – La Maison 1888 – which serves up refined French cuisine in a recreated Indochinese colonial mansion.

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After dark, watch the Dragon Bridge breathe fire or hop aboard a night river cruise to admire the skyline from the water. Then enjoy cocktails at The Sail rooftop bar, where panoramic city views steal the show. Explore more of Da Nang here.

Day 7 to 9: Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam's biggest city offers an exhilarating change of pace, and Hilton Saigon puts you right in the heart of it all. Overlooking the Saigon River in District 1, it's the ideal launchpad for exploring Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the War Remnants Museum and the bustling lanes surrounding Ben Thanh Market. 

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Fuel your day with a perfectly crisp banh mi from the famous Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa nearby or refined home-style cooking at Cuc Gạch Quán, before exploring the city’s coffee culture at cafés like Lạc Café, Little Cam Saigon and even the Studio Ghibli-themed Tiệm của Gỗ Ghibli. 

For a taste of the nightlife scene, put on your EDM shoes for The Observatory, which also has a rooftop lounge and bar. If shopping is on the agenda, split your time between Ben Thanh's lively market stalls, Dong Khoi's homegrown designer boutiques and Book Street.

Day 9 to 11: Phu Quoc

End your journey where every great holiday should: beside the sea. Inspired by the colourful villages of Italy's Amalfi Coast, La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton overlooks Kiss Bridge and Sunset Town, with an infinity pool perfectly positioned for the island's stunning sunsets. 

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Spend your daytime relaxing on Khem Beach, riding the world's longest three-wire cable car, or enjoying the thrills and spills at Sun World Hon Thom’s water and theme parks before settling in for authentic Italian fare at Mare. 

As night falls, catch the spectacular Kiss of the Sea show or have a toast at Cielo or Francesca as fireworks light up the sky. Then round off your trip with one last browse through Phu Quoc Night Market and a final nightcap at the speakeasy Luna Folk. Explore more of Phu Quoc here.

This guide is just the start. Save our Google Maps list for the full edit – the best attractions, bars, and restaurants that locals love, ready to go the moment you land.

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