With its booming modern cities, white sandy beaches, fantastic street food, lush rice terraces and wild jungles, Vietnam is a country that deserves to be on every traveller’s must-see list. From Hanoi in the North to Ho Chi Minh City in the South, there are plenty of things to do and see on the cultural or activity based Vietnam tour packages.

Here is an overview of the top 20 places to visit in Vietnam

1. Hanoi
While the hustle and bustle of Hanoi can appear quite intimidating, you shouldn't let the noise and weaving motorbikes in Vietnam's capital city put you off. A central feature of Hanoi is its Old Quarter that is rich in French colonial and Asian architecture that has remained relatively intact even throughout the bombings of the Vietnam War. Tourists have prominent sites to explore such as the Saint Joseph Cathedral, the presidential Palace and the Grand Opera house. For a more relaxed time the traveller can sip coffee at the quaint cafes or browse the very busy street markets.

2. Ha Long Bay
A visit to Ha Long Bay is a perfect opportunity to sail in the emerald waters rich in limestone islets. Ha long Bay is situated about 130 km from the capital city of Hanoi, and features over 2000 islands in the Gulf of Tonkin that make it possible to explore the intriguing caves, lakes, sinkholes and grottoes. For the more close-up view of the caves it is even possible to hire a kayak to get the intimate experience.

3. Cat Ba Island
One of the largest islands in Ha Long Bay is the jungle clad and rugged Cat Ba Island (total area of 354 km²). This island has experienced a surge in tourism in recent years, which has led to the development of low-rise hotels along the bay area, but virtually all other areas are still wild and untouched. This island is protected as a National Park to ensure its diverse ecosystem remains intact. Grottoes, waterfalls and lakes are prominent on the limestone hills that can rise up to 331 m above sea level. Cat Ba island is pretty laid-back and a great destination for sweat inducing activities such as hiking, kayaking, and climbing.

4. Sapa
Sapa is in a remote part of north-west Vietnam that is surrounded by a diversity of hill tribes, rice terraces and pictorial mountains. This quiet town is a great base to experience a trekking tour that explores the traditional villages and rice paddies throughout the Hoang Lien Son Mountains. There are plenty of organized tours that take place throughout this region and make it possible to get a first-hand experience of the local way of life, while also experiencing the local cuisine and admiring the beautiful waterfalls.

5. Northeast Vietnam
For many tourists to Vietnam, the northeast is mostly about visiting Ha Long Bay. But there are also other intriguing destinations to explore in this region. Ha Giang is a less travelled destination and relatively untouched by mass tourism. But it gives access to the UNESCO designated site of Dong Van Karst Global Geopark that is littered with karst formations while also making it possible to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the region. A popular itinerary destination on the Vietnam tour packages is the Ban Gioc waterfall for its stunning natural beauty. Tourist can travel out to the waterfall on bamboo rafts while swimming is permitted in the large natural pool, but not near the actual waterfall.  

6. Mai Chau Valley
Surrounded by hills, the Mai Chau valley is the complete opposite to the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. Mai Chau gives a perfect opportunity to experience the traditional homestays and stay the night in one of the local stilt houses and enjoy home-cooked meals and the peace and quiet of this rural destination. Most of the local villagers are White Thai that is distantly related to tribes in China, Laos and Thailand. A visit to Mai Chau is a very popular part of the tour group agenda because it is relatively close to Hanoi, and is great for its relaxing atmosphere and activities like hiking and cycling.

7. Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is south of Hanoi and blessed with the Cuc Phuong National Park, cultural sights and all-round natural beauty. Great destinations to visit on the Vietnam tour packages include Tam Coc, Trang An and Van Long. Tam Coc is best appreciated by taking a slow river ride on a row-boat that gives a perfect view of the serene rice paddies and limestone outcrops. A trip to Trang An (about 7 km from Ninh Binh) gives a further opportunity to see the natural landmarks such as the limestone caves and temples. Also, the Van Long nature reserve is perfect for bird-watchers.

8. Phong Nha - Ke Bang
The Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site back in 2003 and rich in extraordinary cave systems and underground rivers to make this site a haven for the speleologists. The cave systems are the most popular highlight of this national park, but it does also give access to rural mountain biking, the ability to learn about the area's war history, and forest trekking. The above ground and mountainous region stretch 885 km² and consists of primary forest landscape and wildlife with nearly 300 species of birds, 81 varieties of amphibian and reptile and over 100 types of mammal (elephants, tigers and primate). Access to the Park is strictly controlled and limited because of unexploded ordinance, but is perfectly safe to explore with the guidance of a licensed tour operator.

9. Hue
For the tourist wishing to get fully immersed in local culture, there is absolutely no shortage of pagodas, tombs, temples and other ruined buildings to explore. This city is based alongside the Perfume River in central Vietnam and the most famous of the city's monuments is the citadel, which is a large complex of ornate temples, grand palaces, gates and walls. Other great landmarks include the Thien Mu Pagoda which is the city's official symbol. This UNESCO World Heritage site is also a great place to relax and enjoy the local cuisine.

10. Danang
Danang is a fast growing city that is a great base for day trip adventures. The city makes up a long, thin peninsula that includes Nui Son Tra at the northern tip. The modernizing of the city has created gleaming restaurants, apartments and hotels along the riverfront. Elsewhere in the north of the city is the D-city and in the South is the East Sea strip that is witnessing the development of resorts and hotels. It is a great destination for a few days to experience the city's beaches, nightlife and restaurants, while sightseeing opportunities include a stunningly quirky bridge and a very decent Museum. Plus, the street food in this city is also worth investigating.

11. Mui Ne
Mui Ne is regarded as the upmarket capital of southern Vietnam. While the original fishing villages are still in place, the number of tourists is starting to overtake the locals these days. There are plenty of swish and exclusive restaurants and high-end shops, but there is still place for kite surfing in the town. Mui Ne is a relatively compact area that stretches about 10 km along the highway with hotels and other accommodation along the beach side, while the shops and restaurants flank the other side. This area has a unique microclimate that is protected thanks to the sand dunes which help to keep the rain fairly light even in the wet season (June to September)

12. Nha Trang
Nha Trang is situated off the coast of south central Vietnam and is one of the top rated seaside resort cities. It has lush islands, beaches and picturesque mountings that make it a real attraction for tourists interested in water-based activities such as scuba diving. The city is adorned with a beautiful promenade, palm trees and resorts, with the main attraction being Nha Trang’s beach. Other great attractions include the water and amusement parks that provide fun for the entire family with wave pools and roller coaster’s.

13. Hoi An
Hoi An is a graceful and historic town in Vietnam that was once a major port destination, but is still rich in beguiling riverside settings and grand architecture. Today, Hoi An has a very harmonious old-town character that has established itself as one of the most important tourism centres in the country, and a very popular stop on the Vietnam tour packages. The ancient town has a glut of tailor shops, travel agents, boutique hotels and lounge bars. Hoi An has plenty of sightseeing destinations within the few kilometres that include superb boat, motorbike and bicycle trips, as well as some of the finest scenery and beaches in central Vietnam within easy reach.

14. Da Lat
Da Lat is a rich scene of misty valleys, colourful flowers and lush pine trees with weather that is spring-like cool year-round, and not the intense tropical heat noticed in Ho Chi Minh City. This charming town is a great summer retreat and dotted with elegant French-colonial villas. Situated in the south central highlands of Vietnam, this is a very walk-able city that makes it possible to admire the picturesque landscape that includes farms thick with flowers and strawberries instead of the traditional rice. For the tourist, the pleasant and moderate climate (between 15°C and 24°C) makes it a perfect destination for a wide variety of adrenaline fuelled activities.

15. Cu Chi tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are situated about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City with this historic site forming part of the War Museum and makes it possible to get a closer look at the underground life of the Vietnamese soldiers. The tunnels stretched nearly 120 km and consist of multiple trapdoors, command centres, hospitals, honorary, storage facilities, kitchens and living areas. The tunnels were dug so far underground that they were able to easily survive when military tanks passed overhead. Today, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a very popular tourist attraction with certain sections upgraded and enlarged to make it possible to explore in person. Vietnam tour packages regularly include trips to Ben Duoc or Ben Dinh for easy access to the two entry points. Plus, it is possible to try out the gun ranges nearby that make it possible to fire an AK-47, but the cost is per bullet which can soon get expensive when firing an automatic weapon.

16. Mekong delta
Quaint villages, bird sanctuaries, sugar cane groves, rice paddies, fruit orchards and floating markets are all the attractions that bring tourists to the Mekong Delta in this south-western region of Vietnam. This river is a fertile agricultural spot that is fed by a maze of streams and canals that lead into the Mekong River. This river stretches from Ho Chi Minh City to the Gulf of Thailand with the ability to feed nearly a third of the country thanks to its ability to supply fish farms, rice paddies, orchards and plantations.

17. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc island is a must see beach destination and virtually guaranteed to appear on the list of Top 20 Places to Visit in Vietnam for the sun-seeking tourist. In addition to the resorts that line Long Beach, there are plenty of opportunities to escape and explore the island. Great activities in the local area include exploring the back roads on a motorbike, kayaking in the bays or diving in the reefs. For the more relaxing time, you can simply lounge on the beach and experience the delicious fresh seafood and indulge in a massage. The preferred time to visit this tear-shaped island is December to January when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. Plus, Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam at about 48 km in length.

18. Con Dao Island
A star attraction in Vietnam is the relatively isolated Con Dao Island that is rich in striking natural beauty and the largest of a chain of 15 islets and Islands in the region. Con Son gives easy access to lovely beaches, scenic bays, coral reefs, and still includes areas rich in thick jungle landscape. Beyond exploring deserted beaches and empty coastal roads, diving and hiking, there is a wide range of wildlife opportunities, including the endemic bow-fingered gecko and the black giant squirrel. Most of the island forms part of the Con Dao National Park that helps to protect the country's sea turtle nesting grounds; which is most active from June to September.

19. Cat Tien national park
The Cat Tien national park is a region of tropical rain forests that spans 72,000 hectares. This natural treasure in Vietnam is a perfect destination for bird watching, mountain biking and hiking. The visitor numbers at this park are restricted, so it is necessary to call ahead to make a reservation. The animal life in the park includes 41 species of amphibians, 79 types of reptile, 100 species of mammal, and an endless list of insects that includes over 400 species of butterfly. Even though there are larger mammals in the park, they are rarely seen so visitors shouldn't expect to see the elephants or tigers on their travels. This park has great overnight options so it is possible to spend several days here exploring the different sights.

20. Bach Ma national park
The Bach Ma national park is able to stretch from the coast to the Truong Son Mountain range. The great beauty of the national parks makes them a favourite place to visit on the Vietnam tour packages. This park contains about a fifth of the entire flora in the country with over 1400 species of plant life including orchids and ferns. Plus, there are plenty of wildlife species, including some of the relatively new discoveries, such as the giant muntjac, Truong Son muntjac and antelope-like saola. Most of animal residents are nocturnal, so it is quite difficult to appreciate the wildlife when exploring during daylight hours. Bird watching is great at the Bach Ma national park and over 350 species of birds have been logged in this region. But an early start is essential if you want to see the best sights, including the crested argus pheasant.