It’s not possible to see everything Vietnam has to offer in one trip – and we don’t suggest you try. What follows is a selective taste of the country’s highlights: outstanding architecture, classic landscapes and mouthwatering food and drink.

1. Bahnar villages

Spend the night in a communal house (rong) where timeless village ceremonies are performed and important decisions are made. See also "Kon Tum and the minority villages"

2. Temples and pagodas

The Vietnamese architectural style is best represented by its temples and pagodas, which reflect the country’s diverse range of religions: Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang is a good example.

3. Dambri Waterfalls

Even in the dry season you’re guaranteed a drenching at these impressive fifty-metre falls near Da Lat.

4. The Mekong Delta

Putter through this fertile farming region, surrounded by classic Vietnamese scenery.

5. A boat trip in Ha Long Bay

Navigate the silent waters around the thousands of limestone islands jutting out of the water at Ha Long Bay, dubbed the eighth natural wonder of the world.

6. Hon Chong Peninsula

Enjoy the Mekong Delta’s most attractive palm-fringed beaches, dramatic offshore isles and calm waters.

7. Bia hoi

Bia hoi bars are fun, friendly, cheap and a great way to mingle with the locals. Order a refreshing glass of bia hoi (lager-like beer) in any of the back lanes in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

8. Browse the markets

Markets such as Binh Tay are good grazing grounds for snacks such as soups, spring rolls and sticky rice cakes. Try a banana-leaf filled with pâte to keep you going while you shop.

9. The citadel, Hué

The former capital’s historic citadel, mausoleums and gardens are idiosyncratic enough to impress even the most jaded traveller.

10. The Red River Delta

Slow the pace down with a trip to the countryside and experience a lifestyle little changed in centuries.

11. Coffee

Vietnam’s best coffee grows around the hills of Buon a Thuot. Drink it the Vietnamese way – strong and short, with a dollop of condensed milk – at one of the quirky cafés scattered all over town.

12. My Son Cham towers

These battered but beautiful towers near Hoi An are all that remain of the once-powerful Champa kingdom.

13. Cao Dai Cathedral

Vietnam’s most charismatic indigenous religion goes in for exuberant architecture, with its Supreme Being symbolized by the all-seeing Eye.

14. Lak Lake

Paddle around the serene waters of Lak Lake in a dug-out canoe, ride on an elephant, or take a guided trek into the surrounding forests and then feast at sunset whilst overlooking the sparkling water.

15. Chill out on Phu Quoc

Unspoilt beaches lined with coconut trees circle the island. Feel the sand of Bai Sao between your toes or sail south to the unspoilt An Thoi islands for fine swimming in crystal-clear waters.

16. Shopping

Browse the colourful shops lining the streets in Hanoi to pick up some unusual souvenirs.