Vietnam is a country of stunning contrasts—misty mountains in the north, golden beaches in the south, and ancient towns nestled between. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for a deeper dive, a well-designed Vietnam tourist map is your key to unlocking every region’s charm.
In this guide, brought to you by Asian Link Travel, we’ll walk you through Vietnam’s geography, highlight must-see destinations by region, and show you how to use a tourist map to plan your perfect itinerary with confidence and ease
Understanding Vietnam’s Geography
Before diving into regional highlights, it’s helpful to understand Vietnam’s layout. The country stretches over 1,600 kilometers from north to south, forming an elegant S-shape along the eastern edge of the Indochinese Peninsula.
Quick Facts About Vietnam’s Layout
- 📍 Northernmost point: Lung Cu, Ha Giang Province
- 📍 Southernmost point: Cape Ca Mau, Ca Mau Province
- 📍 Easternmost point: Mui Doi, Khanh Hoa Province
- 📍 Westernmost point: A Pa Chai, Dien Bien Province
- 🌊 Coastline: Over 3,260 km along the East Sea
- 🗺️ Regions: North, Central, and South Vietnam
Each region offers distinct landscapes, cultures, and travel experiences. A Vietnam tourist map helps you visualize these zones and plan your route efficiently.
Northern Vietnam: Culture, Mountains, and Ancient Capitals
Northern Vietnam is where history meets nature. From the thousand-year-old capital of Hanoi to the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, this region is rich in heritage and scenery.
Hanoi: The Heart of the North
- Explore the Old Quarter’s maze of alleys
- Visit the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- Enjoy street food like bun cha and egg coffee
Hanoi is a great starting point for your journey and is well-marked on any Vietnam tourist map.
Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay: UNESCO Wonders
- Cruise through emerald waters dotted with limestone islands
- Kayak into hidden caves and grottoes
- Stay overnight on a traditional junk boat
These bays are located northeast of Hanoi and are easily accessible by road or shuttle.
Ninh Binh: Inland Halong Bay
- Sampan rides through Trang An or Tam Coc
- Climb Mua Cave for panoramic views
- Cycle through rice paddies and quiet villages
Ninh Binh is often included in northern itineraries and is a must-see on your Vietnam tourist map.
Sapa & Ha Giang: Mountain Escapes
- Trek through terraced rice fields
- Meet ethnic minority communities
- Drive the Ha Giang Loop for dramatic scenery
These destinations are ideal for adventure seekers and are marked in the far north of most travel maps.
Central Vietnam: Heritage, Beaches, and Culinary Delights
Transitioning south, Central Vietnam offers a blend of imperial history, coastal beauty, and vibrant culture.
Hue: Vietnam’s Imperial Past
- Visit the ancient Citadel and royal tombs
- Try Hue’s signature dishes like bun bo Hue
- Cruise the Perfume River
Hue is a historical gem and a key stop on any Vietnam tourist map focused on culture.
Da Nang: Beaches and Modern Vibes
- Relax on My Khe Beach
- Explore the Marble Mountains
- Cross the iconic Dragon Bridge
Da Nang is a coastal city with modern infrastructure and is a great base for exploring the region.
Hoi An: Lanterns and Tailors
- Wander the Ancient Town’s lantern-lit streets
- Get custom clothes made in 24 hours
- Join a cooking class or basket boat tour
Hoi An is one of the most photogenic spots on the map and a favorite among international travelers.
Phong Nha: Caves and Adventure
- Explore Son Doong, the world’s largest cave
- Visit Paradise and Phong Nha caves
- Cycle through rural landscapes
Phong Nha is located inland and is a rising star on the Vietnam tourist map for nature lovers.
Southern Vietnam: Urban Energy and Tropical Retreats
Southern Vietnam is dynamic, tropical, and full of surprises—from bustling cities to tranquil islands.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Urban Pulse
- Visit the War Remnants Museum and Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Shop at Ben Thanh Market
- Enjoy rooftop bars and street food tours
Saigon is the largest city in Vietnam and a major hub on any Vietnam tourist map.
Mekong Delta: Life on the Water
- Cruise through floating markets
- Visit coconut farms and rice paddies
- Stay in a riverside homestay
The Mekong region is marked southwest of Saigon and offers a peaceful contrast to city life.
Phu Quoc & Con Dao: Island Escapes
- Snorkel in clear waters
- Relax at beachfront resorts
- Explore national parks and marine sanctuaries
These islands are located off the southern coast and are perfect for a beach finale.
How to Use a Vietnam Tourist Map Effectively
Now that you know what each region offers, here’s how to use a Vietnam tourist map to plan your trip.
Tips for Map-Based Planning
- 🗺️ Start with major hubs: Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City
- 🧭 Plot your route: North to south or vice versa
- ✈️ Use open-jaw flights: Arrive in one city, depart from another
- 🚆 Consider transport options: Domestic flights, trains, buses
- 📍 Mark must-see spots: Use digital maps to save locations
Interactive maps like those from Kampá Tour or Vietnamnomad are great tools for visualizing your journey.
Suggested Itinerary Using the Vietnam Tourist Map
Here’s a sample 12-day itinerary that covers all three regions:
Days 1–3: Hanoi & Ninh Binh
Start in the capital, then take a day trip to Ninh Binh for nature and temples.
Days 4–5: Ha Long Bay
Enjoy an overnight cruise and return to Hanoi.
Days 6–8: Da Nang & Hoi An
Fly south, relax on the beach, and explore Hoi An’s heritage.
Days 9–10: Ho Chi Minh City
Dive into urban life and explore historical sites.
Days 11–12: Mekong Delta or Phu Quoc
End with a peaceful retreat in the delta or on the beach.
This route is easy to follow using a Vietnam tourist map, and it balances culture, nature, and relaxation.
See more: Hoi An Travel Guide: 10 Irresistible Reasons to Visit Vietnam’s Most Charming Town
Where to Find the Best Vietnam Tourist Maps
For a reliable and locally curated Vietnam tourist map, head to Asian Link Travel. As a Vietnam-based travel operator, they offer detailed regional guides, custom itineraries, and insider tips that help you visualize your journey from north to south. Whether you’re planning a cultural deep dive or a beach-hopping escape, their maps and planning tools make it easy to explore Vietnam with confidence
Final Thoughts: Let the Map Lead the Way
A well-designed Vietnam tourist map isn’t just a tool—it’s your travel companion. It helps you visualize the journey, connect the dots between regions, and make informed decisions about where to go and what to see.
Whether you’re tracing the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, cruising through Ha Long Bay, or sipping coffee in Saigon, your map will guide you to unforgettable experiences across Vietnam.
And if you’re looking for expert help to turn your map into a seamless itinerary, Asian Link Travel is a trusted Vietnam-based operator that specializes in custom tours. From domestic flights and bay cruises to local guides and cultural experiences, they handle the details so you can focus on the adventure. Just share your travel dates, group size, and must-see spots—and let them craft a journey that fits your style and budget.
Let the map inspire you, and let Asian Link Travel bring it to life.
