Image: Mark Soskolne, Dreamstime

Here at Holidays for Couples mag, we pride ourselves on knowing what makes honeymoon spots a must-visit (and trust us, we visit our favourite places just to know them inside out for you!). Vietnam is a personal favourite of ours for a romantic getaway of any sort, but we especially love it as a honeymoon locale – after all, with its vast stretches of calm water, expansive canopies of vibrant green, and locals with the sunniest dispositions in the world, there’s absolutely nothing to put a dampener on your romantic days. With all the awe-inspiring scenery you can dream of, it’s the perfect place for a tranquil break after the big day. Natural and man-made highlights combine to create a honeymoon spot that will have you swooning at every turn and cherishing every moment with your sweetheart.

So read on to discover some of the things to do in Vietnam…

Ho Chi Minh City | Image: Dreamstime

Visit Ho Chi Minh City

A visit to one of Vietnam’s most famous and bustling cities is just teeming with romantic opportunities! In Ho Chi Minh City, there’s a intoxicating blend of ancient and modern that’ll make your honeymoon utterly memorable. Skyscrapers graze the clouds in a show of Vietnam’s finest technological achievements, while lower to the ground, rickshaws and street stalls jostle for space.

The city’s more historic districts are always a great place to start for some old-world romance – with grand colonial architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, they’re the perfect spot for a romantic afternoon picnic or stroll with your sweetheart.

After a cultural adventure? Head to the museums. Reunification Palace will be an utterly eye-opening experience for couples, as you’ll learn about the Vietnam War’s sombre history. Ho Chi Minh Museum, dedicated to the the late Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh, is also worth a visit.

To create some extra fun memories together (and possibly some photo-ops!), visit the street food stalls and try some of the most exotic food you can get your hands on. And this isn’t just for the foodies!

Hanoi Opera House Dreamstime

Hanoi Opera House | Image: Dreamstime

Visit Hanoi

As Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi is a haven for honeymooners. Its beautiful and calm atmosphere makes it the ideal stop on your romantic getaway, while the sheer abundance of luxury resorts and accommodation offer you some utterly gorgeous places to call home during your stay!

First up, it’s time to unwind. As many of the 5-star hotels around Hanoi offer indulgent spa packages for couples to enjoy, your accommodation no doubt has some tricks to help ease the stress of your wedding planning experience.

Now you’re all relaxed, you need to head to Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Beautiful old colonial buildings, Buddhist temples, pagodas… spending the day strolling around this district will be a day that’s truly full of beauty thanks to the gorgeous little spots peppered throughout. And shopping is in abundance – check out the beautiful jewellery and silk on offer. If shopping isn’t quite your thing, don’t despair – art galleries, cafés and restaurants are in ample supply, so you’ll certainly find something to fill in your day!

After wandering the day away, it’s time for a romantic night at the opera. The Hanoi Opera House was originally built by the French in the early 1900s and is a neo-classical marvel. Even if opera isn’t your thing, we recommend making the trip just to check out how grand the place is. Though, naturally, the opera is world-class. You can catch classical performances of myriad origins and enjoy the opulent surrounds.

Halong Bay | Image: National Geographic, David Buffington

Visit Halong Bay

Craving a romantic cruise? Well, you best take a trip to Halong Bay. Breathtaking limestone islands and rock formations emerge from emerald waters, making for a truly ethereal experience. The natural environment here is simply superb, and has to be experienced at least once on your honeymoon or Vietnamese getaway!

Stow away on a sailboat tour and lose yourself in the landscape’s beauty as you wind between stunning rocks, explore caves and spend some much-needed time on beaches.

Make sure you visit Sung Sot Cave – it’s one of the most impressive underground wonders you’ll set eyes on in this area! Marvel at the limestone stalactites and stalagmites and dip your toes into cool rock pools. You’ll then have to stretch out on the shores of Titop Beach and let the heady combination of sun, sand and surf take you away from all of life’s problems.

Whether you choose a day trip or a multi-day cruise, you can definitely spend many days in this region (and we seriously recommend tweaking your itinerary to do so!). Search around for your perfect trip and get a great deal from a bunch of different tour and cruise providers in this region.

No matter if you visit Vietnam as the sole destination on your romantic getaway, or if you stop off while visiting its neighbouring countries, it’s certainly obvious why travellers across the globe adore this country so much! With all the potential Vietnam has for romance and making memories to cherish forever, why wouldn’t you honeymoon there?

Ms Gingham says: Another one to check off the list! Great tips for things to do in Vietnam!

Looking for the ultimate honeymoon or holiday inspiration? Holidays for Couples is full of romantic ideas for a getaway (or two). Check us out online, or say hello on Facebook!