After falling for Lo Lo Chai’s tranquility, a young Hanoi mother left city life behind to transform a decades-old earthen house into a mountain homestay.

A violin-playing snail shop, Quang Ngai-style banh xeo and handmade steamed buns are among the affordable culinary finds waiting in Hanoi’s Dong Da Ward.

Chinese travelers are turning Hanoi chicken pho into a social media favorite, praising its delicate broth, tender meat and mixed-noodle versions despite prices some consider high.

The Moc Chau Cultural and Tourism Week 2026 and the Son La International Brocade Festival opened in Moc Chau ward, Son La on August 31 as part of activities marking the 81st anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day.

Once known as “poor man’s porridge,” this humble Hanoi dish has kept customers returning to Oanh’s tiny Old Quarter shop for two decades.

Leave the holiday crowds behind at these five destinations near Ho Chi Minh City, from an unspoiled beach to a lush Mekong River islet.

Rain, punctures and powerful coastal winds could not stop three retired teachers nearing 70 from completing a 2,300km motorbike journey across Vietnam.

From fireworks and historic sites to riverside parks and cultural encounters, Ho Chi Minh City offers plenty to see and do during Vietnam’s September 2 National Day holiday.

For 40 years of preparing and selling delicious yet affordable dishes, a couple in their nearly 70s in HCMC has had diners queuing every evening to get a taste.

Hanoi is shifting from event-based tourism toward a year-round experience model, using festivals as gateways to longer stays, deeper cultural encounters, and repeat visits.

From Da Lat’s cloud-covered hills to the forests of Mang Den and Gia Lai, these three highland destinations offer cool weather, natural beauty and varied experiences for the National Day break.

Hanoi’s Five Gates Train is taking on a new look to mark the 81st anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day on September 2, bringing the atmosphere of the country’s historic autumn back to life.

Travelers staying near Hanoi for the September 2 holiday can discover ancient village life, ethnic traditions and refreshing mountain landscapes just 50-60km from the city center.

A tourist train service, “Phong Nha – Hue ancient capital: World heritage journey,” was launched at Dong Hoi station on August 28, connecting major heritage, historical, cultural and natural attractions in central Vietnam.

The tourism sector is gearing up for the five-day National Day holiday from August 29 to September 2.

Ha Long Bay burst into light on August 27 as 72 tourist and restaurant vessels sailed in formation, with their dazzling lights turning the UNESCO World Heritage site into a spectacular nighttime stage.

A few hours from Hanoi, travelers can browse an early-morning fish market, unwind on a quiet beach or take to the skies above spectacular terraced rice fields.

Around 140km from Hanoi, a leafy garden in Quang Ninh is drawing visitors with coconut-lined waterways, lotus ponds and boat rides reminiscent of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta.

Four remarkable trees in Dak Lak, including one more than 300 years old, have gained national heritage recognition and could now become a new draw for local tourism.