Backpacking Vietnam 2020 - Where To Go, Itineraries and Travel Tips

Here is a challenge for you: Do something unusual this 2020! This year, challenge yourself to visit places you've never visited before such as Vietnam and other countries in South East Asia.

This beautiful country is for people who are seeking epic adventures, ancient historical sights, unique experiences, exuberant culture, as well as mouthwatering foods. If you consider yourself an open and interesting person, then Vietnam is definitely a place for you!

Contrary to the expectations of so many people, nothing can prepare you enough for the epic beauty of traveling Vietnam. You may have seen it on the background of countless Hollywood movies but that is different from seeing it right inside Vietnam. It is an experience filled with unexpected adventures, learning, natural beauty, and delicious cuisines.

Temples, ancient cultures, sculptures, and hospitality - this South East Asian country, indeed, has a lot to offer visitors. As of today, Vietnam is fast becoming one of Asia's top travel destinations as a direct result of its culture, easy visa, hospitable population, and a well-established backpacker circuit. Since 2015, Vietnam attracts at least 5 million international tourists yearly. If you have made up your mind to visit Vietnam, you won't be doing so alone. You can meet other international tourists from Germany, the United States, Canada, Japan, the UK, South Korea, France, and many more countries.

How To Have Fun Backpacking in Vietnam

Vietnam is a big country that is generally split into north and south regions. This means you have a lot to do and see depending on your schedule. Many backpackers who come to Vietnam determined to see its beauty usually explore the country by a motorcycle. It makes it easier to get to tourist sites. Once you are here, you are guaranteed a super cheap cost of living and plentiful adventures. Below, you will see many places that you must see in Vietnam before making your way home.

Vietnam Travel Itineraries: Where Should You Go?

1. Backpack in Hanoi

A visit to South East Asia is not complete without visiting Hanoi. More than half of tourists who visit Vietnam come to this city. It is a city that's brimming with energy and culture. Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam but generally known as a beautiful combination of the old and modern city.

Hotels cost as low as $5 per night and come with breakfast, internet, and free beer. Hanoi is a historic town, so there are a lot of things you can do. Visit the War Museum, it only cost $3 to get in. When you are done, head to Temple of Literature, Bach Ma Temple, and of course, Hoan Kiem Lake. You can also take a stroll along the French Quarter if you want to learn more about the French occupation of Vietnam. There are nice bars, restaurants, and coffee shops on every corner of the city.

2. Visit Sapa

Out of over 5 million tourists that come to Vietnam every year, nearly 3 million of them visit Sapa. This is a city you cannot afford to ignore. It deservedly called "explorers paradise". Just like Hanoi, there are cheap hotels where you can check-in and then go out and hire a Motorbike for as low as $10 per day.

Once you are all set up, it is time to start exploring the beauty of this countryside. Start your exploration at Thac Bac Waterfall, it is just 15km outside of Sapa main town. Then visit Ban Pho Village known as one of the friendliest tribes in South East Asia. If you are in the mood for some adrenaline-boosting adventure, head to Fansipan - the highest peak in Vietnam. Indeed, there is a lot you can accomplish in this city in just 2 days.

3. See the Eighth Wonder of the World

If you missed the Seven Wonders of the World, don't miss the eighth one. Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island is a UNESCO world heritage site but better known as the Eighth Wonder of the world. Interestingly, Cat Ba Island is divided into two distinctive parts. The first part is the remote Cat Ba National Park with rich biodiversity while the second part is the lively Cat Ba Town with a concentration of tourism services.

Most backpackers come here as a part of a pre-arranged package. The island is home to 6 communes with around 13,500 inhabitants. It has a bustling nightlife, cheap accommodations, delicious foods, and many places to see. Cat Ba Island has spectacular scenery and a wide diversity of landscapes which makes a place you definitely want to see when backpacking Vietnam.

4. Backpack in Hue

Hue is conveniently located on the bank of the Perfume River in Central Vietnam. It is a beautiful small town offering a great break in the journey from Hanoi to Hoi An. Hue has a huge list of impressive historic sights that you would definitely love to see.

While you are here, make sure you see the Citadel – it is the most famous monument in Hue. Citadel was once the seat of the Nguyen emperors. This basically means it is littered with impressive ornate temples, grand palaces, ancient walls, and gates. Before you leave Hue, ask your tour guide to show you the city's official symbol - the Thien Mu Pagoda.

5. See the Beauty of Nha Trang

If you enjoy having fun and outdoor games, then Nha Trang is definitely for you. In fact, it is a perfect place for most Western tourists. Nha Trang is simply a popular seaside resort city situated on one of Asia's most beautiful bays off the coast of South Central Vietnam.

With its beaches, picturesque mountains, lush islands, and delicious cuisines, there is absolutely no doubt that Nha Trang is perfect for all tourists. To make sure you enjoy this place to the maximum, Nha Trang is adorned with palm trees, lovely promenade, and many more. There is a beach nearby where you can always relax. Also located in this resort city is an amusement park, Water Park, roller coasters, and wave pools. These facilities made Nha Trang a perfect location for a family vacation.

Final Words

Explore one Vietnam is certainly a decision that you wouldn't regret. It has all the things you need to make your vacation a dream experience. The best part is that you can get very cheap food, transportation, and accommodation. Besides, there are tons of things to do in Vietnam. The people are very hospitable and the customer service is friendly. Whatever you need, just ask someone. You are sure to get a helpful response with a smile. Once you have decided to have fun, Vietnam is waiting for you!