A Vietnam luxury holiday offers an unparalleled experience, combining exquisite accommodations with breathtaking destinations. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore cultural landmarks, or immerse yourself in the lush countryside, Vietnam provides a diverse range of luxury travel options. In this article, we will explore the best exclusive destinations and resorts that make Vietnam a top choice for a luxury holiday.
Is Vietnam a good luxury holiday destination?
Vietnam is perfect for a luxury holiday! There are many luxury resorts and VIP-like services. What makes Vietnam a better luxury holiday destination than many popular luxury destinations is its diversity. One part of your trip can be spent in a luxury beach resort, another in a lodge overlooking the mountains, and another in a retreat in the jungle or countryside. This diversity makes your trip more fun while still staying within your comforts. The best part is that Vietnam is very affordable, so even a luxury holiday might cost the same as a standard holiday elsewhere.
Tips for planning a luxury holiday in Vietnam
Best time to visit Vietnam for a luxury holiday
When planning a luxury holiday in Vietnam, it’s important to avoid the rainy season, especially if you’ve booked an amazing luxury beach resort. Here’s a global overview of the best times to visit each region. For more detailed information, check out our guide, “Best Time to Visit Vietnam.”
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay): Best from October to April, with cooler, drier weather.
- Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue): Ideal from February to August, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures.
- Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Best from December to April, with dry and sunny conditions.
Best time where all three regions align for best time: February – April.
Average cost for resorts and retreats
Vietnam offers a wide range of luxury accommodations to suit different budgets. Basic luxury resorts can start from $100 per night, offering comfortable rooms, pools, and good dining options. For extremely exclusive experiences, you can expect to pay upwards of $500 per night, which includes private villas, personalized services, fine dining, and exclusive excursions such as private boat tours and guided cultural experiences.
Getting around Vietnam
For luxury travelers, there are several comfortable ways to get around Vietnam:
- Domestic Flights: Vietnam Airlines offers excellent service with many destinations connected. Although not all airports are directly connected, major hubs like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City provide easy access to the entire country.
- Private Car with Driver: From standard sedans to limousine vans, hiring a private car with a driver offers flexibility and comfort.
- Shared Limousine Vans: These services provide VIP-like seats and are quite affordable, usually around $20 per ride, although they are shared with other passengers.
- Luxury Trains: Standard trains may be lacking, but tourist trains such as The Vietage offer a luxurious travel experience along the coast.
Fine dining & food experiences
Vietnam’s fine dining scene is thriving, with top-notch restaurants available in popular areas and luxury resorts. However, even famous personalities like Obama, Australian Prime Minister Albanese, and celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay have enjoyed the local street food. Don’t miss out on tasting the incredible flavors of Vietnam at street food stalls and local restaurants for a truly authentic experience.
Private tours
Private tours in Vietnam are not as expensive as one might think and offer greater flexibility. You can customize tours to suit your preferences, whether it’s visiting secluded spots, determining the duration, or choosing specific activities. From trekking in Sapa and caving in Phong Nha to street food experiences and speedboat island hopping, there are plenty of private tour options available.
Making a luxury holiday in Vietnam with Local Vietnam
At Local Vietnam, we specialize in creating custom-made trips that cater to your preferences and needs. As a locally based agency, we have the expertise to arrange everything ourselves, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience. Our unique advantage lies in our combination of local knowledge and a Western perspective, thanks to our partial Dutch ownership. This blend allows us to understand Western travel styles and expectations, delivering a luxury holiday that perfectly balances comfort and authentic local experiences. Let us take care of all the details while you immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Vietnam.
Request your custom made trip here.
Best luxury holiday destinations in Vietnam
1. Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a premier destination for a Vietnam luxury holiday, known for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a range of exclusive experiences, from luxury cruises with private balconies and five-star services to premium water activities such as kayaking and diving.
Travelers can enjoy upscale dining on deck, explore hidden caves, and visit secluded beaches. Getting to Halong Bay is convenient with transfers available from Hanoi, including private cars and luxury buses. For an even more unique perspective, consider a scenic seaplane flight from Hanoi, offering stunning aerial views of this natural wonder.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Luxury cruise: Book a private suite on a luxury cruise ship to explore the bay’s stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.
- Scenic seaplane flight: Enjoy a unique aerial view of Halong Bay’s spectacular landscapes with a premium seaplane tour.
- Private beach excursion: Visit secluded beaches for a peaceful and exclusive experience away from the crowds.
- Gourmet dining: Savor exquisite meals on the deck of your cruise ship, featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine.
Luxury cruises in Halong Bay
- Paradise Elegance Cruise: This luxurious cruise line offers spacious cabins with private balconies, gourmet dining, and a range of activities, including kayaking and tai chi classes, for an unforgettable Halong Bay experience.
- Indochina Sails: Known for its traditional wooden junks, Indochina Sails offers a blend of authenticity and luxury, with comfortable cabins, excellent service, and various excursions.
- Bhaya Cruises: This well-established cruise company offers a range of modern and stylish ships with spacious cabins, fine dining options, and a variety of onboard activities.
2. Sapa
Sapa, nestled in the mountains of northern Vietnam, is an upscale destination known for its stunning terraced rice fields and vibrant ethnic culture. High-end travelers can indulge in luxury resorts and five-star hotels that offer panoramic views of the terraced landscapes. Private guided treks through the rice terraces and ethnic villages provide an exclusive look into local life while ensuring comfort and safety. Sapa’s cool climate and serene atmosphere make it an ideal retreat. Getting there is easy with luxury train services from Hanoi, featuring private cabins and premium amenities, or by private car for a more direct journey.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Trekking with a private fuide: Explore the terraced rice fields and ethnic villages with a knowledgeable local guide for a personalized experience.
- Private ethnic village tour: Discover the unique cultures of the local ethnic minorities with a private, guided tour.
- Relaxing spa treatments: Unwind with luxurious spa services that offer traditional herbal baths and massages.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- Topas Ecolodge: Nestled in the mountains overlooking the valley, Topas Ecolodge offers breathtaking views, private bungalows with terraces, and a focus on sustainability and cultural immersion
- .Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa Sapa: This elegant resort features stylish rooms and suites, a world-class spa, multiple dining options, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rice terraces.
- Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa: Evoking the charm of a French hill station, this resort offers comfortable rooms, a heated indoor pool, and a tranquil spa, all set amidst the natural beauty of Sapa.
3. Hoi An
Hoi An, with its charming ancient town and picturesque surroundings, is a top choice for a Vietnam luxury holiday. This historic city offers a blend of upscale accommodations, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts, many housed in restored colonial buildings. Visitors can enjoy private cooking classes, exclusive lantern-making workshops, and premium dining experiences in the town’s many high-end restaurants. For those looking to relax, the nearby An Bang Beach provides serene coastal retreats. Hoi An is easily accessible from Da Nang International Airport, with private transfers ensuring a smooth journey to this enchanting destination.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Romantic walk through ancient town: Stroll hand-in-hand through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An’s charming old town.
- Private cooking class in a heritage home: Learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine in an intimate setting, preparing authentic dishes with a local chef in a beautifully restored heritage home.
- Private tailor-made clothing experience: Get fitted for custom-made clothing at one of Hoi An’s renowned tailors, creating unique pieces that reflect your personal style.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai: This beachfront sanctuary boasts private villas with plunge pools, a world-class spa, and exceptional service, providing the ultimate in luxury and relaxation.
- Anantara Hoi An Resort: Blending traditional Vietnamese charm with modern luxury, this riverside resort offers elegant rooms, a serene spa, and a variety of dining experiences.
- La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa: Located in the heart of Hoi An’s Old Town, this boutique resort features stylish rooms, a rooftop pool with stunning views, and a tranquil spa.
4. Hanoi
Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern luxury. This city offers high-end travelers a variety of five-star hotels and luxury resorts, situated in both the historic Old Quarter and the more modern West Lake area. Exclusive experiences in Hanoi include private cyclo tours, upscale dining at gourmet restaurants, and premium cultural shows at the Hanoi Opera House. Getting around is convenient with private car services and luxury limousine transfers. Hanoi’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring other luxury destinations in northern Vietnam.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Cocktail at a rooftop bar: Sip on signature cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.
- Private cooking class: Enhance your culinary skills with a private cooking session led by a renowned Vietnamese chef.
- Vintage Vespa Sidecar Tour: Explore Hanoi’s hidden gems and historical landmarks in style on a vintage Vespa sidecar tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide.
- Opera House Performance: Enjoy a captivating performance at the Hanoi Opera House, followed by a gourmet dinner at a fine-dining restaurant.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: This iconic hotel, steeped in history, offers luxurious rooms, a variety of fine dining options, and a peaceful courtyard, making it a perfect oasis in the bustling city.
- Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Trendy: This boutique hotel in the Old Quarter features stylish rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, and a relaxing spa, offering a blend of modern comfort and traditional Vietnamese design.
- InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72: Located in Hanoi’s tallest building, this modern hotel offers stunning city views, spacious rooms, and a range of upscale amenities, including a rooftop bar and a luxurious spa.
5. Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc Island, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise ideal for an exclusive Vietnam luxury holiday. The island boasts numerous luxury resorts and five-star hotels, many with private beaches and villas. Activities on Phu Quoc include snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunset cruises, all offering a premium experience. The island’s upscale dining scene features fresh seafood and international cuisine, often served in beachside restaurants with stunning views. Getting to Phu Quoc is convenient with direct flights from major Vietnamese cities and private transfers to your resort, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Beach time: Relax on pristine beaches with private cabanas and personalized services.
- Sunset cruise: Take a romantic cruise at sunset, complete with a gourmet dinner and drinks.
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore the vibrant marine life with exclusive snorkeling or diving tours.
- Luxury spa treatments: Indulge in high-end spa treatments at one of Phu Quoc’s luxury resorts.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa: This playful and imaginative resort designed by Bill Bensley features themed rooms, a private beach, multiple swimming pools, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
- Fusion Resort Phu Quoc: This all-inclusive resort offers luxurious villas with private pools, a focus on wellness and relaxation, and a tranquil spa.
- La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc – MGallery: This elegant colonial-style resort boasts a private beach, lush gardens, and a range of activities, including cooking classes and yoga sessions.
6. Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant heart of southern Vietnam, is a dynamic destination for luxury travel. The city offers a wide array of five-star hotels and luxury resorts, many with rooftop pools and fine dining options. High-end experiences include private city tours, premium shopping excursions, and exclusive visits to historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels. The city’s nightlife is equally upscale, with rooftop bars and gourmet restaurants offering panoramic views of the skyline. Ho Chi Minh City is well-connected with an international airport and luxury transport options, making it an excellent gateway to the rest of Vietnam.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Rooftop bars: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with cocktails at upscale rooftop bars offering stunning views.
- Exclusive shopping : Explore high-end boutiques and luxury brands.
- Gourmet dining: Dine at some of the city’s most luxurious restaurants, offering a blend of Vietnamese and international cuisine.
- Private city tour: Discover the city’s history and culture with a customized private tour.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- The Reverie Saigon: This opulent hotel offers lavishly decorated rooms and suites, stunning city views, and a variety of high-end dining and entertainment options.
- Park Hyatt Saigon: Located in the heart of the city, this elegant hotel features spacious rooms, a serene spa, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views.
- Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and a variety of dining options, all within easy reach of the city’s major attractions.
7. Hue
Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam, offers a unique blend of history and luxury. This city is home to five-star hotels and luxury resorts that provide stunning views of the Perfume River and the surrounding landscapes. Exclusive activities in Hue include private dragon boat cruises, premium tours of the Imperial City, and luxurious spa treatments inspired by ancient royal traditions. The city’s culinary scene features gourmet restaurants serving traditional royal cuisine. Hue is easily accessible by private car or luxury train from Da Nang, offering a comfortable and scenic journey.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Perfume River dragon boat cruise: Enjoy a private cruise on the Perfume River, visiting iconic sites along the way.
- Walk around Hue Citadel: Explore the historical Imperial City with a private guide for an in-depth experience.
- Royal cuisine dining: Dine at restaurants offering traditional royal dishes in a luxurious setting.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- Azerai La Residence, Hue: This luxurious hotel, housed in a former French colonial residence, offers elegant rooms, a peaceful garden, and a stunning pool overlooking the Perfume River.
- Vedana Lagoon Wellness Resort & Spa: Nestled on a lagoon outside of Hue, this serene resort offers private villas, a tranquil spa, and a focus on wellness and rejuvenation.
- Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa: This charming resort, set amidst lush gardens, offers a tranquil retreat with traditional Vietnamese architecture, a relaxing spa, and a variety of cultural activities.
8. Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a serene and upscale destination perfect for a Vietnam luxury holiday. The region offers luxury resorts and five-star hotels nestled among dramatic limestone karsts and tranquil rivers. High-end travelers can enjoy exclusive boat tours through the stunning Trang An landscape, private cycling tours around the countryside, and visits to ancient temples. Ninh Binh is conveniently located a short drive from Hanoi, with private transfers providing a comfortable and direct route to this beautiful rural escape.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Private cycling tour through villages and temples: Pedal through the picturesque countryside, visiting ancient temples, traditional villages, and hidden gems.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort & Spa: Nestled amidst limestone karsts and rice paddies, this luxurious resort offers private villas with plunge pools, a world-class spa, and a range of activities.
- Tam Coc Garden Boutique Resort: This boutique resort offers stylish bungalows with private terraces, a tranquil swimming pool, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
- Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort: Located in a peaceful village, this resort offers comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and a relaxing pool, providing a serene escape from the city.
9. Con Dao Islands
The Con Dao Islands, a pristine archipelago off the southern coast of Vietnam, are a hidden gem for luxury travel. These islands offer exclusive experiences with luxury resorts featuring private villas, personal butler services, and direct beach access. Activities include private scuba diving excursions, exploring untouched beaches, and high-end spa treatments. The islands are also rich in history, with private tours available to historical sites. Con Dao is accessible by direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City, followed by private transfers to your resort, ensuring a seamless and luxurious travel experience.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Private beach access: Relax on secluded beaches exclusive to your luxury resort.
- Scuba diving tours: Discover the underwater beauty with private scuba diving excursions.
- Historical tours: Explore the island’s historical sites with a private guide.
- Spa and wellness: Indulge in premium spa treatments at your resort.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- Six Senses Con Dao: This exclusive resort offers luxurious villas with private pools, direct beach access, and a focus on sustainability and wellness.
- Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa: This stylish resort features elegant rooms and suites, a private beach, and a relaxing spa, providing a tranquil retreat on Con Dao Island.
- Con Dao Resort: Located on a secluded beach, this resort offers comfortable bungalows, a swimming pool, and a range of activities, including diving and snorkeling.
10. Nha Trang
Nha Trang, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, is an excellent destination for a Vietnam luxury holiday. The city offers a range of luxury resorts and five-star hotels, many with private beach access and stunning ocean views. High-end activities include private yacht charters, exclusive scuba diving tours, and premium dining experiences at beachfront restaurants. Nha Trang is easily accessible with direct flights from major Vietnamese cities and private transfers ensuring a comfortable journey. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the vibrant underwater world, Nha Trang provides an upscale and unforgettable experience.
Unique & exclusive experiences in
- Mud bath and hot springs experience: Indulge in a therapeutic mud bath and soak in natural hot springs, known for their healing properties and relaxation benefits.
- Private yacht charter: Experience the ultimate luxury with a private yacht tour of Nha Trang Bay.
- Exclusive scuba diving: Dive into the clear waters with private diving instructors.
- Beachfront dining: Enjoy gourmet meals at high-end restaurants with ocean views.
- Diamond Bay Golf: Set along the coast, this course offers stunning ocean views and a challenging layout for golfers of all levels.
- Vinpearl Golf Club: Located on Hon Tre Island, this course provides a unique island golfing experience with luxurious facilities and beautiful surroundings.
Luxury resorts, lodges and retreats in
- Mia Resort Nha Trang: This beachfront resort offers luxurious villas with private pools, stunning ocean views, and a tranquil spa.
- An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay: Accessible only by boat, this secluded retreat features private villas nestled in the hillside, offering ultimate privacy and breathtaking views.
- Six Senses Ninh Van Bay: Another exclusive retreat accessible only by boat, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay offers luxurious villas, a world-class spa, and a range of activities, including kayaking and cooking classes.
