Here we profile some of the key destinations on the route, how to get
from A to B to sea, and pick out some hidden gems along the way. Hold on to
your conical hats...

Vietnam Popular
Destinations

Nha Trang Beach City -
Vietnam

3 hours from Da Lat by
bus (or a 6 - 8 hour train journey from Ho Chi Minh City if you choose to miss
out the Vietnamese Alps), the lively seaside town of Nah Trang is a mainstay on
the North/South Vietnam route. Kick back and relax on the golden beaches during
the day before heading to one of the many friendly bars when the sun goes down
to grab a tasty Hanoi or Saigon beer.



If the hubbub of the beach is a bit much for you can jump on a boat to explore
the nearby islands or discover the underwater world of the South China Sea on a
scuba dive course. You’ll also find quieter stretches of sand further up the
coast including the white sands of Doc Let which often ranks as one of Vietnam’s best
beaches.

HOI AN

Japanese Covered
Bridge in Hoi An, Vietnam

Though the train
tracks don’t run directly to Hoi An it’s still by far the fastest way to get to
this stunning town (other than flying of course). Take the train to Da Nang
(9-10 hours from Nha Trang) and jump on the bus for Hoi An - though worth
taking a cab if there are more than 2 of you.



Hoi An is well worth the slight diversion from the tracks. Beautiful and
unexpected, walking the winding allies, tiny streets and bridges is like
stepping back in time. It’s also THE place to get clothes tailor made for a
fraction of western prices. Just think how snappy that silver three piece suit
will look on the next night train...

HUE

Dong Ba Market in Hue
- Vietnam

Pronounced “Huway” and
known for it’s fascinating history, there are two main ways to get to Hue -
direct bus from Hoi An or bus back to Da Nang and the
train. The latter is known for being particularly scenic and, after epic 10
hour train marathons, the 4 hour ride will be a walk in the park.



However you decide to get there you’ll be bowled over by this city that’s been
shaped by conflict over centuries. Be sure to spend some time in the Imperial
Citadel and, if two wheels are your thing, to bike to the Tombs of the Emperors
on the banks of the river. Just a short drive up the coast is the Tam Giang
Lagoon system which, though off the main trail, is well worth a visit for the
stunning views.

HANOI

Tran Quoc Pagoda in
Hanoi, Vietnam

Brace yourself for
your last long train journey! A meer 12 hours from Hue (though honestly by this
point you might consider a flight), the French Colonial capital of Vietnam is
where Asia and ye olde Europe collide. Not only is the city itself full of
fascinating sights such as Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum and Hoan Kiem Lake it’s also
the jump off for the beauty of...

HA LONG BAY

Dau Be Island in
Halong Bay, Vietnam

There’s not a lot we
can say about Ha Long Bay that’s not implied by the pictures (i.e. it’s bloody
beautiful). If you’ve got the time go on a longer expedition and spend a couple
of days sailing round the limestone inlets.

SAPA

Sapa, Best place for
trekking

Time permitting Sapa
is a brilliant addition to any Vietnamese itinerary. It’s no walk in the park
to get there (yet another long train journey) but the views, tranquillity and
endless photo opportunities are more than worth another night on the move./.