The Time Out (UK) has recently announced that Vietnam is on its list of the 20 best winter-sun holiday destinations in the world for 2025-2026.

Vietnam - A Captivating Culinary Destination

In Time Out’s ranking, Vietnam is listed under the category “Best for food” - the best winter destination for culinary-minded travellers. The magazine highlights that Vietnam offers not only a diverse range of traditional dishes, but also exceptional accessibility, from street stalls to high-end restaurants, all at reasonable prices.

Time Out describes Vietnam as a destination with a rich, distinctive food culture capable of delighting any visitor. Travellers “can eat well anywhere”, from humble street carts to upscale dining venues, with affordable prices and unforgettable flavours.

Beef Noodle Soup(Pho bo)

In Vietnam, winter is felt most clearly in the northern region. In the crisp 12-15°C weather, a steaming bowl of pho infused with cinnamon and star anise is considered the perfect comfort dish. It is no coincidence that CNN has repeatedly called Vietnamese pho “the best soup in the world”, while Lonely Planet named Hanoi pho among the “50 must-try foods once in a lifetime.”

Alongside pho, traditional noodle soups such as bun thang, bun moc, bun bo, and bun ca are also favourites among international visitors exploring Ha Noi during the colder months. South China Morning Post once described bun thang as “a delicate symphony of Vietnamese cuisine” with its slender noodles, fine egg strips, shredded chicken, and shiitake mushrooms coming together in a clear, refined broth.

Banh troi tau - Asia’s most unique winter desserts

Beyond savoury dishes, Ha Noi’s winter is also marked by warm, comforting desserts such as che san, che ba cot, and banh troi tau. CNN listed banh troi tau among “Asia’s most unique winter desserts,” praising the harmony of spicy ginger and the soft, chewy glutinous rice, “a small embrace” on a cold day.

Winter Experiences Not to Miss in Vietnam

Time Out considers the period from October to February the ideal time to visit Vietnam. Travel and accommodation costs in Vietnam are also noted as “budget-friendly”, making the country more affordable than many international destinations.

According to Time Out, travelling across the country to visit highlights such as Ha Noi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City is an essential experience.
In Ha Noi, travellers are encouraged to visit intimate jazz bars, enjoy the Old Quarter’s atmosphere, and indulge in street food.

Hoi An is praised for its signature cao lau, its peaceful ancient streets, and the charm of lantern-lit evenings.

In Ho Chi Minh City, Time Out suggests exploring restaurants, cafés, and the city’s vibrant nightlife.