Travel
Do you have to go to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh Metropolis?
Who doesn’t need to go to Vietnam? This Southeast Asian powerhouse has all of it: lovely seashores, unparalleled historical past, numerous cultures…and did we point out the meals?
The nation’s two largest cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh Metropolis present most vacationers’ first impressions of this singular nation. They’re each cosmopolitan, thrilling and oh-so-Vietnamese – and but oh-so-different, too.
Which is the fitting gateway to Vietnam’s delights? We requested two consultants to go face to face to make the case for his or her most well-liked burg.
Hanoi? Oh, boy
A veteran guidebook author and journalist, Joe Bindloss first received the Hanoi bug within the Nineteen Nineties. A 3-decade-long entanglement retains drawing him again to this fascinating, multi-layered metropolis.
Yeah, I’m going to say it – Hanoi rocks.
From the bia hoi (“contemporary” beer) and the next-generation guitar heroes getting the dance ground pumping at Hanoi Rock City to the Communist symbols adorning civic buildings and scattered mementos of the late Nguyen empire, the Vietnamese capital will rock your world. After many years of journey right here, it nonetheless rocks mine.
Competing for the love of first-time guests to Vietnam, historic Hanoi and good-looking Ho Chi Minh Metropolis (HCMC) stay locked in a face-off to rival the Beatles and the Stones. And it will be silly to speak down both metropolis – each are fascinating, complicated, full-flavored and steeped in historical past. But since Ho Chi Minh himself is a everlasting resident of Hanoi – preserved in state in an iconic mausoleum by Ba Dinh Sq. – who’re we to query the judgment of Vietnam’s nationwide hero?
On my first go to, Hanoi bowled me over – at instances nearly actually, due to the profusion of rushing bikes and scooters. For immediate immersion into Hanoi life, make for the atmospheric Outdated Quarter, which stubbornly resists the march of modernity. On an early-morning wander, you’ll spy distributors hauling fruit and greens on conventional yokes, store staff commuting in buggy-like cyclos (rickshaws) and old-timers with Uncle Ho–type beards enjoying chess exterior balcony-fronted shophouses.
For me, plenty of Hanoi’s magic comes right down to really feel. On this multicultural capital, laid-back rhythms collide with the pomp and grandeur of dynastic China and an unmistakably French angle. You’ll sense this melting pot most strongly at mealtimes, as you wash down aromatic noodle soups, succulent pork stomach with vermicelli, delicate bánh cuon spring rolls and loaded bánh mì (baguette) sandwiches with sturdy espresso, draft beer and pictures of “snake wine.” (Sure, it’s produced from actual snakes.)
And also you’ll love how simple it’s to slip again into historical past in Hanoi. Begin off on the Imperial Citadel and Ho Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Restored Sword) – a mirror-like pool that comes with its personal King Arthur–type legend and a dainty, dragon-topped tower. Hanoi’s sanctuaries – red-and-gold lacquered Bach Ma Temple, garden-ringed Hai Ba Trung Temple, the thousand-year-old Temple of Literature – anchor town in an age of formality and ceremony.
Okay, HCMC most likely has the sting on the subject of American conflict relics, however I like Hanoi for its museums. From the compelling National Museum of Vietnamese History and the patriarchy-undermining Vietnamese Women’s Museum to the thought-provoking shows on Vietnam’s independence battle at Hoa Lo Prison and the crash course in tribal tradition provided by the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi is the proper primer for exploring the remainder of the nation.
Hanoi will get bonus factors for an additional cause: it’s only a complete lot of enjoyable. Whether or not you agree right into a French-era cafe with a cup of ca phe trung (egg espresso), cruise the streets gorging on northern-style road meals, costume up for a cocktail with a skyline view on the Lighthouse Sky Bar, or pull up a plastic stool to quaff crisp native beers at Bia Hoi Junction, Hanoi is a spot to embrace the unrepressed enjoyment of journey.
And think about the situation: HCMC stands out as the doorway to the Mekong Delta, however Hanoi is the leaping off level for the karst islands of Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, and the emerald uplands and minority villages of the mountainous northwest. You’re additionally a simple in a single day prepare journey from the imperial wonders of Hue and a half-day bus journey from inexperienced and serene Ba Be National Park. Wherever else you go, you’ll get extra out of your journey for those who begin off on this rocking city.
Did I point out that meals, lodging and nightlife are cheaper right here, too? Dong for dong, Hanoi has the sting.
For the win? Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
Born in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, James Pham, Lonely Planet vacation spot editor for Southeast Asia, has been again dwelling within the metropolis of his delivery for the final 12 years.
Hanoi is Vietnam’s political and cultural capital. Ho Chi Minh City is the capital of every part else that (actually) issues – like meals, enjoyable and commerce.
Granted, Hanoi has been Vietnam’s capital for practically a millennium – with all of the heritage buildings and monuments to associate with that storied historical past. Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, however, was solely based within the late seventeenth century, however has made up for misplaced time with its glittering cityscape, newer infrastructure and thriving nightlife and meals scene. In brief, Hanoi is the normal older brother. Ho Chi Minh Metropolis is the youthful, hipper sibling.
Whereas Ho Chi Minh Metropolis’s inhabitants is sort of double that of Hanoi’s (9.3 million vs 5.2 million), HCMC’s downtown core is a chic, tree-lined distinction to Hanoi’s almost-always crowded Outdated Quarter. On HCMC’s broader streets, its numerous vary of sights unfold out, from the historic buildings in glitzy District 1 (together with the French colonial-era Saigon Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office) to the fashionable consuming and ingesting hub of District 3 to its atmospheric Cho Lon (Chinatown).
Past statistics, Ho Chi Minh Metropolis merely feels youthful. College students come right here from all around the nation for college whereas others are enticed by job alternatives. Extra influenced by overseas cultures (particularly the French throughout the colonial period and the People throughout the conflict), the folks of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis are cosmopolitan and open to alter. It’s right here the place traits are born and entrepreneurs look to get their begin.
This unbelievable range has led to Vietnam’s finest meals scene, the place you’ll be able to feast on Hanoian specialties of pho, bun cha and bánh cuon – but additionally spicy noodle soup from Hue, scorching crepes from the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh Metropolis’s personal model of damaged rice with grilled pork. With the Delta simply south, HCMC’s lighter delicacies options contemporary herbs, vegatables and fruits. I like that I can simply eat one thing totally different for each meal for a month, with no repeats.
Comparatively low start-up prices and a younger inhabitants with money to burn interprets to a prepared marketplace for returning Vietnamese entrepreneurs to open up their very own eating places. Cooks like Peter Cuong Franklin from the Michelin-starred Anan Saigon and chef Francis Thuan of Esta Saigon mix flavors and strategies they’ve picked up on their world travels with conventional Vietnamese delicacies. Equally, HCMC has a booming artisanal food-and-drink scene encompassing every part from craft beer and up to date gin impressed by Vietnamese botanicals to premium chocolate with cacao harvested from the Mekong Delta. HCMC’s massive expat inhabitants additionally means you’re nearly by no means greater than 10 minutes away from world-class Japanese, Indian, Korean and European delicacies.
Then there’s the climate. Whereas HCMC enjoys balmy shorts climate yr spherical with solely two seasons (sizzling and dry or sizzling and wet), Hanoi can get shockingly chilly in winter, with locals bundled up in hats and gloves whereas sucking in frigid air via their enamel. Did you actually come to this a part of the world to expertise winter? I didn’t suppose so. And don’t even get me began on the air air pollution: Hanoi’s is at instances twice as dangerous as in HCMC.
It’s true that Hanoi does have some fairly neat locations close by. But HCMC is the gateway to the Cu Cu Tunnels (1.5 hours by automobile), the Mekong Delta (three hours) and the seashores of Vung Tau (two hours) and Mui Ne (3.5 hours). A bigger worldwide airport means extra (and cheaper) flights all over the place, together with the island paradises of Phu Quoc and Con Dao, simply over an hour away by aircraft.
Tradition vultures and historical past buffs can have Hanoi. However for those who get pleasure from dwelling the great life, I’ll see you in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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