Vietnam Travel Guide: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City Twin City Tour

Vietnam is one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia, and the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer unique and captivating experiences. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is rich in history and culture, perfect for those who love exploring ancient landmarks and traditional culture.

Ho Chi Minh City, on the other hand, is a dynamic city where modernity meets history, with bustling streets and a rich food scene that make it a must-visit for travelers. This article will introduce must-see attractions, recommended local cuisine, ideal travel durations, and routes for both cities. Additionally, we'll explain how luggage delivery services can make your Vietnam travel more convenient and enjoyable.

Recommended Travel Duration and Route Planning

To fully experience the charm of both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, it’s recommended to plan a 5 to 7-day trip. This allows you to travel from the north to the south, immersing yourself in Vietnam's history, culture, and modern life. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi Old Quarter, explore local markets and enjoy street food.
• Day 2: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore Hanoi’s historical sites and museums.
• Day 3: Fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
• Day 4: Explore Ben Thanh Market and enjoy local snacks, then head to the War Remnants Museum in the afternoon.
• Day 5: Continue discovering Ho Chi Minh City, participate in cultural activities, and shop for souvenirs before preparing to head home.

Must-Visit Attractions and Cuisine in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the iconic landmarks in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush trees and scenic walking paths. In the middle of the lake is an ancient Turtle Tower, symbolizing the legends in Vietnam's history. Visitors can take a peaceful stroll around the lake or rent a bike to explore the city’s beautiful scenery.

Hoan Kiem Lake, resource: Vietnam Tourism

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Built to honor Vietnam's great leader Ho Chi Minh, this mausoleum attracts many visitors who come to pay their respects. You can view Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body and visit the memorial museum to learn about Vietnam’s revolutionary history. The architecture is grand, making it a must-see in Hanoi.

Entry is free, but visitors are required to wear formal attire, and photography is not allowed. The opening hours are as follows:

• From April 1 to October 30: Tuesday to Thursday, 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM; Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
• From November 1 to March 31: Tuesday to Thursday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM; Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays, 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, resource: Vietnam Tourism

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter preserves many traditional Vietnamese buildings, transporting visitors back in time. It is filled with artisan shops, restaurants, and cafes.

You can shop for souvenirs or enjoy local food along these charming streets.

Hanoi Old Quarter, resource: Vietnam Tourism

Must-Try Foods in Hanoi

Pho: A classic Vietnamese dish, Hanoi’s pho is known for its clear broth and fresh ingredients.

Spring Rolls: Fried and fresh spring rolls are staples of the local cuisine, with crispy exteriors and flavorful fillings.

Egg Coffee: Unique to Hanoi, egg coffee combines egg yolk with coffee, offering a rich, creamy taste that’s worth trying.

Must-Try Foods in Hanoi, resource: Vietnam Tourism

Attractions	Highlights	Recommended Activities
Hoan Kiem Lake	Historical legend and city landmark	Lake stroll, bike ride
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum	Honoring Vietnam’s great leader	Visit mausoleum and museum
Hanoi Old Quarter	Traditional architecture and culture	Shopping, dining, cultural exploration

Must-Visit Attractions and Cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

This red-brick cathedral is one of the landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing French colonial architecture. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Central Post Office, a notable sight for its beautiful, nostalgic design.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, resource: Vietnam Tourism

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is one of the busiest markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide range of goods, including local handicrafts, clothing, and street food.

Visitors can experience the vibrant local culture while tasting freshly made Vietnamese snacks.

Ben Thanh Market, resource: Vietnam Tourism

War Remnants Museum

This museum documents the history of the Vietnam War, featuring a large collection of photographs, weapons, and historical documents. It provides a deep understanding of Vietnam’s past and its impact on the world.

War Remnants Museum, resource: Vietnam Tourism

Must-Try Foods in Ho Chi Minh City

• Banh Mi: A fusion of Vietnamese and French cuisine, this crispy baguette filled with flavorful ingredients is a street food staple in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Vietnamese Rice Noodles: Unlike the lighter pho of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh’s rice noodles are richer in flavor with a sweeter broth.
• Vietnamese Spring Rolls: The spring rolls here are served with various dipping sauces that enhance their flavors.

Must-Try Foods in Ho Chi Minh City, resource: Vietnam Tourism

Attractions	Highlights	Recommended Activities
Notre-Dame Cathedral	French colonial architecture	Visit the cathedral and post office
Ben Thanh Market	Local lifestyle and shopping hub	Shop for handicrafts and food
War Remnants Museum	Vietnam War historical records	Explore exhibits and learn history

Recommended Accommodation Areas and Hotels

In Hanoi, it’s ideal to stay near Hoan Kiem Lake or the Old Quarter, where transportation is convenient and major attractions are close by. Recommended hotels include La Siesta Hotel, offering modern, comfortable rooms and proximity to Hanoi’s top sites.

In Ho Chi Minh City, consider staying in District 1, the central area close to the cathedral and market. InterContinental Saigon is a top choice, offering luxurious service and an excellent location for sightseeing and shopping.

La Siesta Hotel, resource: La Siesta Hotel

Make Your Trip Easier with Luggage Delivery Services

When traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, using LuggAgent’s luggage delivery service can make your Vietnam travel stress-free. After checking out of your Hanoi hotel, simply hand your luggage to LuggAgent, and they’ll ensure it’s delivered to the airport. This way, you can leave Hanoi and fly to Ho Chi Minh without worrying about your bags.

LuggAgent also offers airport-to-hotel and hotel-to-hotel luggage delivery services. When you arrive at either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you can hand your luggage to LuggAgent at the airport, and they will deliver it to your hotel before you arrive. If you need to change hotels during your stay, just leave your luggages at the front desk, and LuggAgent will transfer them to your next destination. This allows you to travel light and fully enjoy Vietnam’s attractions and cuisine without any luggage concerns.

Whether it’s the historical depth of Hanoi or the bustling modernity of Ho Chi Minh City, a Vietnam travel experience is truly unforgettable. From northern Hanoi to southern Ho Chi Minh, this trip will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes of the country. By planning your itinerary well and taking advantage of LuggAgent’s luggage delivery services, you can easily move between the two cities without the hassle of carrying your luggage.

In other words, whether you’re traveling independently or with a group, exploring Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City will bring endless joy and memories, and LuggAgent’s service will ensure that your trip is smooth and enjoyable.