Six places you shouldn't miss in Northern Vietnam

Hội An

There's a reason everyone raves about this backpackers' paradise. Hội An is an ancient port town that is full of character and charm. A UNESCO World Heritage site, motor vehicles are banned from the Ancient Town, which is preserved so well that you can easily imagine yourself stepping back in time as you wonder through its charming streets. Stay as long as you can and enjoy the brightly-coloured lanterns, grand architecture and delicious food while you wait for your order at one of the town's renowned tailors to be completed. 

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

For some reason Phong Nha isn't the most well-known destination on the Vietnam backpacker trail, but I can honestly say that exploring the many amazing caves in this national park was one of the highlights of my trip. For thrill-seekers there's the Dark Cave, where you zip-line in to an exciting tour that leads you through narrower and darker muddy tunnels that culminate in a mud-filled natural swimming pool where you will be encouraged to turn your head lamps off and experience true darkness while float almost weightlessly in the mud. A truly unique, once in a lifetime experience. If that doesn't sound like your thing, though, Phong Nha still offers some beautiful caves that are just as incredible if not quite as thrilling. I can highly recommend a tranquil boat ride to the Phong Nha Caves, and the enormous Paradise Cave is truly breathtaking and yet easily accessible. 

Phong Nha also boasts the biggest cave in the world (Hang Son Doong), however if you want to visit this one you will have to join a very long waiting list and pay thousands of pounds to go on a week-long expedition. 

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is just as beautiful as everyone says it is, and definitely should not be missed when travelling to Vietnam. Book yourself on an overnight cruise and enjoy the splendour of the journey between thousands of limestone islands. 

Sapa

An overnight bus journey from Hanoi will take you to the beautiful hills and paddy fields of Sapa. Book a local guide to take you on a hike through the stunning countryside. A word of warning though - I went in January and it was COLD, and the paddy fields were not quite the vibrant shade of green I'd seen in the guidebooks. That shouldn't put you off though, it was still spectacular, just go prepared!

Hue

Visit the historic citadel of this imperial city and marvel at the ornate palaces and fine architecture. Though Hue shouldn't be missed on a tour of Northern Vietnam, a day is enough time to see everything you need to see here. 

Hanoi

The perfect base for trips out to Halong Bay and Sapa, make sure you allow some time to explore the Old Quarter; dodge motorbikes as you try to navigate the maze-like streets, sample some street food and sip egg coffee!