top 10 tourist destinations in vietnam

The 10 best places to visit in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Experience the best of Vietnam with these top places to visit © hadynyah / Getty Images

With its rolling emerald landscapes, perfect beaches and energetic cities, Vietnam is unsurprisingly a magnet for visitors in search of an incredible travel experience.

This country is teeming with attractions, so it pays to plan your trip around the places you absolutely can't miss. Where you want to go will influence whether you fly into cultured Hanoi in the north or energetic Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in the south, or whether you bypass these two megacities for the laid-back beaches of tropical Phu Quoc.

Start your travel to-do list now with our ten favorite places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Phu Quoc

Best for beach lovers

About as far south as you can get from Hanoi without splashing into the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Phu Quoc is where beach worshippers come to pray. Lapped by jewel-blue waters and edged by fine sandy beaches, this is a place to slip into low gear, reaching for a cocktail as the ember-colored sun dips into the bay.

But it's far from undiscovered – local tourists come in droves for theme park thrills at VinWonders and giddying views over the sea from the world's longest over-sea cable car. Phu Quoc is a popular stop for families, and if you fancy a change from the tourist scene, there are dense jungles to explore inland from the sand.

Planning tip: If you're bound for Phu Quoc, there's no need to go via Hanoi and HCMC; numerous Asian airlines offer flights from hubs such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Seoul, connecting with long-haul flights further afield.

Best for city slickers

Every trip has to start somewhere, and the ideal point of arrival for first-timers is Vietnam's historic capital. As well as easy infrastructure, inexpensive accommodation, world-class dining and more history than you'll ever have time to take in, Hanoi is the leaping-off point for the islands and outcrops around Halong Bay and the forest-draped trails of the mountainous northwest. Give yourself time to graze through Vietnam's catalog of street food treats  and pause to soak up the atmosphere in cozy cafes in the Old Quarter as well as rush around the sights.

Planning tip: To enjoy Hanoi nightlife on a budget, swing by the streetside bia hoi (draft beer) stalls at busy Bia Hoi Junction on the drinking strip of P Ta Hein.

3. Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Best for iconic photos

The crowds mob Halong Bay , but for our money, the shimmering bays to the north and south have a slight edge over Vietnam's most famous collection of outcrops and islands. While trips to Halong Bay are highly commercialized, with motorized luxury junks blowing diesel fumes around the eroded karst islands, Lan Ha Bay  and Bai Tu Long Bay  are a bit more laid-back, and you won't have quite so many cruise ships in your photos. Try kayaking between the outcrops, explore the tropical trails on Cat Ba Island – gateway to Lan Ha Bay – or kick back on the sand on Bai Tu Long's idyllic Co To Island.

Planning tip: If you visit Cat Ba Island, take time to explore the trails around Cat Ba National Park – if you trek with your own guide, it's easy to leave the crowds behind.

4. Ho Chi Minh City

Best for a sense of the past

Cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the southern counterweight to Hanoi in the north, taking its cultural cues from the Mekong Delta and neighboring Cambodia . It's fast-paced, frenetic and fun, particularly after dark, when the pavements transform into a mobile buffet of street food stalls and roadside bars.

A little of the frontier feel of the war years lives on in HCMC, and you can learn more about this violent period at sites such as the War Remnants Museum . The ghosts of French Indochina linger too – set aside some time to wander past the city's colonial-era landmarks, then settle into a coffee shop with a drip-brewed ca phi .

Planning tip: For a break from the city crush, swing out to nearby Tay Ninh, where the Cao Dai Holy See offers a fascinating introduction to the all-embracing Cao Dai religion.

5. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Best for unique experiences

Vietnam's biggest natural attraction – literally – is Hang Son Doong Cave, the largest cavern in the world by volume and a true wonder. An entire New York City block could fit inside its vast main passage, but this monster cavern is only accessible on expensive guided treks.

The good news is that  Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park  is pockmarked with caverns that you can clamber, crawl, boat or zipline through for a fraction of the cost. Trips to the Tu Lan, Phong Nha and Paradise caves are possible on a shoestring budget; more cash will buy access to Hang En, where trekkers set up tents on an underground beach, illuminated by shafts of natural light.

Best for history

A stay in harmonious Hoi An is a journey into Vietnam's lavish, layered past. This was once one of the most important ports in Asia, and traders from as far afield as Japan, Spain and North America filled the pockets of its merchants with gold. Locals used their money wisely, packing the Old Town with teetering shophouses, tea warehouses, fanciful covered bridges, elaborate Chinese guildhalls, and colorful Confucian and Buddhist pagodas. History is only the beginning – many travelers stay for days, learning to make white rose dumplings and summer rolls on chef-led cooking courses, and ordering made-to-measure suits and gowns from the city's modestly priced tailors' shops.

Planning tip: For a change of pace, head inland from Hoi An and spend a night in a friendly community homestay in the Co Tu minority village of Bho Hoong.

7. The Central Beaches

Best for sun-seekers

Sandy bays stud Vietnam's central coastline, but the mood varies widely from beach to beach. Package tourists flock to high-rise Danang  and Nha Trang – famed as military R&R stops during the American War – but we rate the calmer beaches along the coast, where a little of Vietnam's old seaside charm still endures. To the south of Nha Trang, Mui Ne is a lively kitesurfing hub following a string of sandy coves, while Doc Let Beach to the north serves up 18km (11 miles) of sand, surf and seafood. For a quieter experience, hit the coast between Hue and Danang – Thuan An is the gateway to a string of serene and sandy beaches flanking a lagoon-backed barrier island.

Best for imperial history

The former capital of the Nguyen dynasty – which ruled over large parts of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in the 19th and 20th centuries – drips with imperial history, despite the ravages of US bombers during the American War. Much was lost in Hue , but the grandeur of dynastic Vietnam lives on in the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure , housing the emperor's residence, temples, palaces and court. At one time, entering without permission would bring instant death. Just outside town are the tombs of Vietnam's greatest emperors, resting serenely in green compounds beside the Perfume River. Another relic of royal rule is Hue's imperial cuisine – arguably the finest in the country – try a spicy bowl of bun bo Hue (vermicelli noodle soup) or a crispy banh khoai pancake, and you'll see what we mean.

Planning tip: To stay one step ahead of the crowds at Hue's imperial tombs and rent a motorcycle or scooter to explore; don't miss the Thien Mu Pagoda on your way out of the city.

9. Ba Be National Park

Best for lake and forest scenery

Vietnam has more than 30 national parks , taking in everything from coastal swamps to mountain jungles, but some are firmly on the tourist trail, and the crowds can be an impediment to spotting wildlife. That's less of a problem in lovely Ba Be National Park , where trails weave between the limestone peaks to Hmong, Tay and Dzao villages, and boat and kayak trips cross serene lakes hemmed in by forested ridges, creating scenes worthy of a medieval woodcut. The park is a haven for everything from macaques and langur monkeys to rare black bears, scaly pangolins and the spectacular crested serpent eagle.

Planning tip: Comfy accommodation in village homes completes the sense of stepping off the mainstream tourist circuit. For an intimate homestay experience, check out the family-run guesthouses in Pac Ngoi village, accessible by bus from Hanoi, via the village of Cho Don.

10. Ha Giang

Best for mountain views

Trekking to the minority villages in the hills around Sapa  is one of Vietnam's top draws, but the country's trekking capital feels rather commercialized these days. Hikers have to walk further every year to find the rural idyll that first drew people to the northwest.

For scenic countryside without the company, remote Ha Giang  province is Vietnam's new frontier. Staying in simple village homestays, you can hike out to minority villages and rice terraces tucked between the soaring limestone peaks, and motor (or pedal) over some of Vietnam's most spectacular passes. You'll want to take plenty of photos on the winding mountain road between Ha Giang town, Dong Van and Meo Vac.

Planning tip: If you're confident in the saddle, motorcycles can easily be rented in Ha Giang town – just ride slowly and be ready for rainy conditions!

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2024

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

Vietnam is an astonishing mix of natural highlights and cultural diversity.

The scenery ranges from jagged peaks seen from winding mountain passes down to verdant paddy fields painted every shade of green in the palette, while Vietnam's long history and multicultural population (with over 50 ethnic minority groups) make a trip here rich in heritage.

Outdoor lovers can get their teeth into the countryside within the numerous national parks, where hiking, biking, and kayaking are popular things to do, but Vietnam's most famous natural tourist attraction, the spectacular karst seascape of Halong Bay, is one natural sight that even the more slothful can experience up close on a cruise.

While the rural areas brim with lush panoramas, the big cities buzz with contemporary life and provide ample opportunities to get stuck into Vietnam's tasty culinary highlights.

This fascinating country is full of surprises and is one of Southeast Asia's most underrated destinations. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Halong Bay

2. ho chi minh city, 4. phong nha-ke bang national park, 7. sapa countryside, 9. nha trang, 10. cu chi tunnels, 11. ba be national park, 12. mekong delta, 13. cat ba island, 14. ha giang, 15. phu quoc island, 16. con dao islands, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit vietnam.

The karst seascape of Halong Bay is one of the best places to visit in the world for spellbinding sea views and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thousands of limestone islands sit within this bay in the Gulf of Tonkin, eroded into jagged pinnacles by wind and water action over millennia.

With the bay's scenery best seen by boat, this is prime cruising territory. Opt for at least an overnight tour to see Halong Bay's iconic views as a day trip doesn't do it justice.

There are plenty of caves in the bay that can be entered including the Hang Sung Sot, with three mammoth caverns, and the Hang Dao Go, with superbly weird stalagmites and stalactites. For most people though, the highlight is simply cruising amid the karsts and soaking up the changing scenery of pinnacles as you pass by.

There are plenty of different cruise tours to choose from. Check the different itineraries offered before booking as many travelers have left Halong Bay underwhelmed by their cruise.

Author's Tip: If possible, book a tour that takes in neighboring Lan Ha Bay as well as Halong Bay. The karst scenery is just as dramatic here but fewer cruise trips visit. And check if your cruise offers included activities such as guided kayaking (which allows you to experience an up-close view of the scenery).

For big city fans, no visit to Vietnam is really complete without a visit to Ho Chi Minh City, the buzzing commercial hub of the country.

The streets are an insane clog of motorbikes and cars, the restaurant and café scene is incredibly cosmopolitan, and the shopping is the best in the country.

At its center is Dong Khoi, a relatively small and easily navigable central district, which holds most of the city's sights.

Here, you'll find the HCMC Museum, with a brilliant collection of artifacts that weaves together the story of the city, and the grand Notre Dame Cathedral, built in the late 19th century.

Check out the old district of Da Kao nearby for some of the best surviving examples of the city's French colonial architecture and also to visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda with its dazzling array of Buddhist and Taoist religious iconography.

Afterwards, the History Museum is a must-do for history fans with stacks of relics on display from various archaeological sites.

For many visitors, the two big-hitter tourist attractions not to miss are just a little out of the center, along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street. The Reunification Palace, then known as Independence Palace, was the residence for South Vietnam's president. It's chiefly famous as the spot where North Vietnam's tanks stopped on 30 April 1975, officially ending the war. It's a completely fascinating place to visit complete with 1960s furnishings still in situ.

Nearby is the War Remnants Museum, which although very obviously biased, paints a disturbing picture of the brutality of war and the many atrocities committed by US Forces during their Vietnam campaign.

One of Vietnam's most historic towns, Hue is packed to the brim with relics from the reign of the 19th-century Nguyen emperors.

Sitting along the banks of the gorgeous Perfume River, the Imperial Enclosure is a huge site set within walls that sprawl for 2.5 kilometers.

While touring the grounds check out the gorgeous Ngo Mon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace with its finely lacquered interior detailing, the Dien Tho Residence where the Queen Mothers would live, and the Halls of Mandarins with its preserved ceiling murals.

A dazzling number of historic sites lie outside the Imperial Enclosure walls as well.

One of the nicest ways of visiting a collection of outlying sites is by taking a riverboat cruise on the Perfume River. A day cruise can take you to visit several royal tombs along with some pagodas.

If you're short on time, the best tomb to visit is the Tomb of Tu Doc and the most important pagoda in the area is the Thien Mu Pagoda, with its tower that soars for 21 meters high.

One of the best places to visit in Vietnam for caving, World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a dramatic karst mountain formation honeycombed with huge caverns, which are home to superb stalactite and stalagmite displays.

It's best known for its caving activities , which range from multi-day hiking and caving tours for the more adventurous, to simpler half-day trips to caves with easy access provided by boat trips and modern boardwalks, but the national park also offers mountain biking and trekking activities.

The most popular destinations within the park are the Paradise Cave , which extends for a staggering 31 kilometers below ground, and the Phong Nha Cave, where the interior is accessed by boat. Half-day tours can be easily arranged once you're in the area.

The national park's most renowned caverns though are Son Doong Cave (the world's largest cave) , and the Tu Lan Cave with its cavern river system. Access to these, and to certain other caves in the park are restricted to organized tours (ranging from one-day to multi-day expeditions) which are all run by Phong Nha's expert adventure tour company Oxalis . It's well worth booking in advance to secure your spot.

To make the most of your time here, time your visit for outside the rainy season, which runs from October to December, when many of the national park's caves are closed to the public.

You can access Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park from Son Trach (also known as Phong Nha village).

Surrounded by lush jungle-covered mountains, My Son is a ruined Cham era temple city that dates from the 4th century.

This old Hindu religious center was still very much in use during the 7th to 10th centuries and only fell into complete decline and abandonment during the 13th century.

There are around 20 temple structures still standing here, all built of brick or sandstone blocks and showing interesting influences from various Asian empires, including Indian and Malay.

Note that the temples of Group B are the oldest, while Group A once contained the site's most important monument but was destroyed deliberately by US forces during the Vietnam War.

A good museum on-site houses plenty of information on the Cham.

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

Beautiful Hoi An is the most atmospheric city in Vietnam, with bags of surviving historic architecture.

The old town quarter is a joy to explore, packed to the brim with well-preserved merchant houses that hark back to Hoi An's trading center heyday of the 15th century, when the town was a major meeting point for Japanese and Chinese merchants who flocked here for the local silks.

Plenty of the old merchant houses have been opened to the public, so you can get a taste of these times. The best is 17th-century Tan Ky House, with fascinating architectural and decorative elements.

Hoi An's major symbol is the delightful Japanese Bridge at the western end of Tran Phu Street, while nearby, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation is the old town's most highly decorated temple.

There are numerous small pagodas and museums dotted about town, but Hoi An's true charm is found in simply rambling the old town streets admiring the well-preserved facades.

The verdant rice field countryside surrounding Sapa, bordered by the jagged peaks of the Hoang Lien Mountains (often still known by their French colonial era name of the Tonkinese Alps), are home to Vietnam's most beautiful rural vistas.

The deep valleys here are home to a diverse mix of the country's ethnic minorities, including the Hmong, Giay, and Red Dzao people, while the rippling hills are terraced with rice fields and overlooked by the country's tallest peak, Fansipan Mountain.

This is the top trekking destination in Vietnam with oodles of options to trek or day hike between tiny villages and experience the staggering mountain views.

Sapa itself is the main base here - an old hill station and now a bustling and forever growing tourist center that is a stark contrast to the sumptuous tranquil countryside right on its doorstep.

Author's Tip: Keen trekkers looking for more of northern Vietnam's lush mountain vistas may want to skip the busy Sapa scene completely and nudge further 95 kilometers northwest to Bac Ha , where the terraced hill views on hikes between hill villages are just as beautiful. Bac Ha's Sunday market is also a very popular day trip from Sapa.

Vietnam's capital is the frenetic heartbeat of the nation and a place that befuddles travelers as much as it charms them.

The motorbike frenzy, pollution, and constant clamor of street vendors can get too much for some travelers, but if you want to dive into Vietnamese city life, Hanoi is the place to do it.

The old town quarter has plenty of dilapidated charm on offer, while history fans should make a beeline here simply to see the bundle of excellent museums.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and Vietnam Fine Art Museum are both brilliant introductions to the diverse artistry of the country, while the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important tribute to the founder of modern Vietnam.

Author's Tip: It's well worth adding extra time into your itinerary to use Hanoi as a base for exploring the many sights within day tripping distance. In particular, the Tay Phuong and Thay Pagodas (30 kilometers west from the central city), Co Loa Citadel (24 kilometers northeast), and the Huong Pagoda (also known as the Perfume Pagoda; 60 kilometers southwest).

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

For sandy fun in Vietnam, Nha Trang is king. The well-maintained beach trundles for six kilometers along the shoreline of central Nha Trang city and during summer is jam-packed with local families on vacation, as well as foreign visitors.

There is excellent swimming here with designated swimming areas and manicured lounging areas that make this a great option for relaxing days soaking up the sun and sand.

If you do get bored of sunbathing, the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers are just to the north across the Xom Bong Bridge and have been used as a place of worship here since at least the 7th century (with some historians saying the site itself has been a place of active worship since much earlier).

There is also an excellent museum dedicated to the work of Alexandre Yersin who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague and founded Nha Trang's Pasteur Institute (which still carries out vaccination programs in Vietnam today).

An absolutely fascinating experience for all travelers, not just those interested in Vietnam's modern military history, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive tunnel network that during the war, stretched for more than 250 kilometers, allowing VC troops to operate and communicate in the area surrounding Ho Chi Minh City.

Two short sections of the network can be visited with a guide who'll take you down into the narrow unlit confines, which definitely are not for claustrophobia sufferers.

You will literally be crawling on your hands and knees and some points. You can access the tunnels at either Ben Dinh village (the more popular choice) or Ben Duoc village.

Tranquil Ba Be National Park is absolutely stunning with the three interlinked Ba Be Lakes at its heart, rimmed by jagged karst peaks and thickly forested slopes.

Most visitors come here to take peaceful boat trips or kayak on the lake and explore the caves full of stalactites and stalagmites in the vicinity, but for the more active, there's also excellent hiking and trekking in the hills here between ethnic minority villages.

This is one of the most peaceful spots in Vietnam, and travelers who spend the night here sleep in traditional stilt-house homestay accommodation along the lakeshore, allowing an experience of simple rural life.

The far south of Vietnam is where the mighty Mekong River finally finds its way to the sea in a maze of waterways that crisscross the floodplain.

Incredibly lush, with paddy field vistas and mangroves, and full of local life, with chaotic floating markets to explore by boat, the delta is one of the most interesting regions for travelers to discover.

Can Tho is the most popular town to use as a base, as it's close to the floating markets of Phong Dien and Cai Rang, while boat trips from Ca Mau allow you to explore the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve.

This area of Vietnam is one of the best to visit for keen bird watchers and nature lovers , as it is home to both Tra Su Bird Sanctuary Forest and Bac Lieu Bird Sanctuary.

One of Vietnam's major centers for activities and adventure travel attractions, Cat Ba Island sits on the western edge of Halong Bay.

This is the best place to visit if you want to organize cruises and kayaking trips in Lan Ha Bay, which lies off Cat Ba's southern coast. Lan Ha Bay is a less visited seascape of karst islets and outcrops that makes for a quieter alternative to Halong Bay.

Off the water, much of Cat Ba's dense jungle interior is part of Cat Ba National Park, where hikers can spot plentiful birdlife, as well as animals such as macaques.

For many visitors, though, Cat Ba is all about climbing opportunities. Climbing excursions here utilize both the island's limestone cliffs and Lan Ha Bay's outcrops, providing experiences to suit both complete climbing beginners and experienced climbers.

The emerald-green karst mountain landscapes along Ha Giang's mountain passes make this far-north province prime territory for scenic road-tripping by either motorbike or car.

In particular, the twisty Quan Ba Pass between Ha Giang town and Tam Son provides panoramic vistas of the karst plateau and its jagged limestone outcrops, while the zigzagging Mai Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac offers dizzying views of the lush mountain scenery and narrow valleys below.

Time your visit to coincide with one of the area's market days, when traders from the surrounding mountain villages pile into town. Dong Van's Sunday market is one of the best.

Sitting 45 kilometers off the southern coast of the country, in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is a densely forested island, speckled by sweeps of white-sand beach that attract plenty of sunseekers during the winter dry season.

Dry season (November to May) is also when the island's underwater and on-the-water tourism attractions spring into action, with plenty of dive sites in the waters just offshore, as well as opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trips.

Many of the main boat excursions head to the An Thoi Islands, just to the south of Phu Quoc, which is home to the best snorkeling in the area.

Off the water, the Phu Quoc cable-car provides bird's-eye views for eight kilometers, soaring over the seascape and islands, all the way from Phu Quoc to the island of Hon Thom in the An Thoi Islands.

Phu Quac is accessed by plane or regular ferries from the mainland towns of Rach Gia and Ha Tien. As Ha Tien lies very close to the southern border crossing with Cambodia, the island is a popular first (or last) stop-off in Vietnam for overland travelers.

This remote island group lies around 160 kilometers offshore in the South China Sea and is renowned among divers as one of the best places to visit in the country, both for the variety of sea life and for the coral reefs.

Much of the Con Dao Islands, and the surrounding water, is a protected wilderness area, with the island shores home to nesting turtles, and dense forest still covering the island interiors.

The main island, and prime base for visitors with all the accommodation and things to do, is Con Son Island, which has sweeps of sand strung out across its coast that attract beachgoers looking for a relaxed sun-soaked getaway, as well as divers.

Even if you're here mostly for the beach, make sure to explore the historic sites of Con Son Town (the island's only settlement) including Phu Hai Prison, Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, and the prison known as the Tiger Cages, which document the dark history of this isolated island group.

Con Son's remote position led to the island being used to incarcerate political prisoners during the era Vietnam was occupied by French colonial forces, and later by both the South Vietnamese government and the occupying American forces.

Preserved sites including Phu Hai Prison and the prison cages used by the US forces, known as the Tiger Cages, along with Con Son Town's Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, do an excellent job of documenting this history for visitors.

Access to Con Son Island is either by flight from Ho Chi Minh City or by ferry from the coastal city of Vung Tau.

Once a sleepy coastal fishing town, Mui Né has developed into a beautiful beach resort town and a prime destination for windsurfing, sailing, and kitesurfing.

Compared to other beach destinations in Vietnam , however, Mui Né remains relatively unknown - and this means pristine beaches and a quiet retreat for most of the year.

One of Mui Né's most unique attractions is the natural Red Sand Dunes just outside town, where visitors can practice sand-sledding or rent dune buggies for a more adrenaline-charged experience.

Tucked away between nearby fishing villages and towering orange limestone formations, there's the fairy stream, a slow-moving warm stream that almost feels like a walkway because it's so shallow - follow it to the end to reach a waterfall.

For those wishing to explore beyond the coastline, there are also the ruins of the Po Shanu Cham Towers - remnants of the Cham Empire that dominated the area many centuries ago.

Vietnam experiences strong monsoon seasons, where heavy rains hit the cities and the countryside, often causing floods and mudslides. If you're planning to travel around, the best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which lasts from December to February – but there are some exceptions.

The south of Vietnam – where Ho Chi Minh city is located – experiences a more tropical climate, with high temperatures and high humidity year-round. Visiting these areas in the cooler months means less humidity and temperatures in the high 20s rather than the high 30s and 40s, which makes it more comfortable to walk around.

In the north, however, many areas experience an actual winter. Hanoi sees temperatures in the mid- to high teens in December and January – and in the mountains of Sapa in the north, you'll even get to see some snow during these months.

If you're visiting Danang for some beach time or to travel through the ancient town of Hoi An, it's best to arrive between February and May, when water and air temperature are in the 20s – perfect beach weather for enjoying the sand or a dip in the water. The rainy season, and especially the months of September and October, see very heavy rains and often very strong wind storms on the coast, so it's better to stay away from Danang during this time.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in 2022

Coming to the S-shaped country, you can admire the poetic and charming scenery wherever you go. The natural beauty and unique culture have made Vietnam become a tourist destination worldwide. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Vietnam nominated in 2022.

1. Ha Long Bay

Off Northeast Vietnam , Ha Long Bay was designated as one of the World Heritage Sites in 1994. For many reasons, Ha Long Bay has to be on your list when you travel to Vietnam.

Having been known for thousands of limestone islands that emerged from the emerald water, the bay is surrounded by a spectacular seascape. You will want to sign up for a boat trip to cruise along the maze of channels and uniquely shaped islets. You can also go kayaking and caving to experience the enchanting beauty of this wonderland.

Although it can get very touristy during the high season, with what it has to offer, Ha Long Bay is totally worth your visit.

The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is in the summer (May – October) when its weather is warm, less rain, convenient for outdoor activities and exploring.

2. Ninh Binh

Used to be one of the hidden gems in the north of Vietnam, Ninh Binh has become more and more popular among both local and foreign visitors after being chosen as the blockbuster Kong’s filming location. But Ninh Binh is not all about that.

This is home of one of the biggest temples in South East Asia (Bai Dinh Pagoda), which is solemnly situated amid the lush paddy fields and breathtaking rock formations. The best way to explore the renowned landscape complex is by rowboat to bit-by-bit take in the majestic and poetic scenery. Ninh Binh will truly give you a sense of the spiritual calmness coming from the splashing water under your boat and distant temple bells echoing.

You can visit Ninh Binh at any time of the year, each season in Ninh Binh has a unique beauty that is nowhere to be found.

Noted as another World Heritage Site of the long-stretching nation, the Ancient Town of Hoi An  carries not only the diversity of settings but also the history of hundreds of years of cultural interference between the three countries of China, Japan, and Vietnam. You will need to be ready to fall in love with the mix of vibrant lifestyle and ancient architecture of this little town.

Hoi An is also famous for a wide range of delightful cafes and restaurants of those overlooking peaceful views. Even for a local, the town’s delicacies are definitely one-of-a-kind, and it will give you a hard time picking among all the good food.

As the most beautiful city in Vietnam, Hoi An is crowded year-round, the tourist season starts from November to the end of February. If you want to enjoy a “real” Hoi An, April to June is the right time for you, when there are the least tourists.

Further north of Hoi An is a beautiful coastal city – Da Nang . Da Nang is a tropical sea paradise in Vietnam; it has some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches such as Non Nuoc Beach, which is almost never too busy. It would make you extend your staying here with its spectacular mountain temples, well-decorated bars and restaurants, and so much more. It is not random that many expats choose to relocate here as you can easily find a hint of the modern lifestyle of a big city blended into the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

If you are an adventurous soul, get on a motorbike and go for a road trip around Son Tra Peninsula, then set out to conquer the Hai Van Pass or simply walk the majestic  Golden Bridge .

The ideal time to visit Da Nang is the dry season from January to July, and the most perfect is between February and May. During this period, the weather is pleasant and less rain.

Hue  is the former imperial capital of Vietnam under the prosperous reign of the Nguyen Dynasty, which explains a rich collection of tombs, palaces, and royal buildings. That is also the highlight of this romantic city.

Strolling along the gorgeous Perfume River, crossing Trang Tien Bridge just to later sit down and take a sip of cold Huda beer.

Hue is definitely not a tourism hub but if you are keen on an atmosphere with a breadth of history, then Hue would be your perfect choice.

Located between the South and the North, Hue weather is characteristic of both regions. Hue has four seasons, but the most obvious are sunny and rainy seasons. The dry season lasts from March to August, it is quite bright and hot. From August to November is the rainy season. Especially from October onwards, there are prolonged rains and storms.

In 6th place, Sapa meets all the elements to become one of the best places to visit in Vietnam: the small villages like the picture painted on the majestic hills, upland markets, and the identity of ethnic minority communities.

Although the main town itself has been said to be too touristic and going through lots of construction, it gives you a reason to go out of town and immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful highland cities in the country. Meeting up with the innocent local minority people and being amazed by terraced fields – breathtaking scenery will be your unforgettable memory.

Sapa is a mountainous region with a cool climate all year round. The weather in Sapa has four seasons. The average temperature of Sapa is 15 °C. Summer in Sapa is not too hot; winter is often cloudy and cold, and sometimes it snows.

The best time to visit Sapa is from September to early November, at this time, rice begins to ripen, and the scenery of Sapa turns to the brilliant golden colour of the rice, a picturesque view.

7. Nha Trang

As one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Vietnam , Nha Trang has been recognized as a tropical sea paradise. Not only do long blue beaches and dozens of large and small islands remain untouched, but Nha Trang is also an ideal destination for those who love culture – history as it is also the land of the flourishing Champa Kingdom in the past.

Visit Nha Trang, immerse yourself in the refreshing water, dive down to the coral reefs, discover islands by canoe, and enjoy fresh seafood.

The most significant advantage of this city is the long sunny season during the first eight months, the temperature difference is not considerable. The rainy season of Nha Trang lasts from September to December and reaches its peak in October and November.

Nha Trang is definitely an indispensable name when it comes to the best places to visit in Vietnam.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

When talking about the best places to visit in Vietnam, it’s impossible to ignore the biggest city in the country: Ho Chi Minh City .

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the most developed and somehow chaotic city across the country once known as the Pearl of the Far East. Although Saigon is not rich in natural resources, it has a wide range of street food and nightlife activities to choose from.

And if your heart is up for knowledge, there is a list of museums and galleries scattered around the city so you can check them out and explore the city at the same time.

Chinatown is also the soul of the dynamic city filled with century-aged temples and shops – where you can give yourself a break after play-hard days. It is no exaggeration to say that Saigon has it all.

Ho Chi Minh City weather does not have four seasons like Hanoi but only two: rainy and dry. The rainy season is from May to November. In general, you can visit Ho Chi Minh City at any time of the year, the rainy season is also the most beautiful season of this city.

It is always worth visiting the capital city of any country. In  Hanoi , your mind will be blown away by the subtly busy Old Quarter – 36 Streets. You will live the historic moments walking along Long Bien Bridge.

You will love every single second of riding around Truc Bach Lake and finding yourself a good coffee spot to sit down and enjoy a hot egg coffee. And when the sun goes down, get yourself to the Main Cathedral, sit on those red stools and join the locals for lemon tea and sunflower seeds.

Hanoi is one of the few places in Vietnam that has four seasons. Because of the characteristics of a humid monsoon tropical country, Hanoi’s climate in the winter and summer is quite harsh. The winter in Hanoi is so cold; sometimes the temperature drops deeply below 10 °C, meanwhile, the summer is very hot, sometimes stormy. According to the experiences of many travellers, you should visit this city in the autumn.

Mui Ne is another coastal city to add to your list. Unlike any other beaches, Mui Ne is a paradise for those into extreme water sports. You can do from snorkeling, diving to surfing and parachuting. Riding past miles of white and red stunning sandhills on one side and feeling the ocean breeze blowing from the sea from the other side, you will know why this destination keeps popping up in travel conversations. And of course, live seafood is freshly brought to restaurants from the fishing boats will fulfill your visit.

Mui Ne is not only good for motorbike trips but also the best place across the country for water sports. November to April is the windy season making it perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Other activities such as parasailing, kayaking, and motorboating can also be spotted. Make sure you eat at one of the food stalls set on the beach for an unforgettable dining experience.

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12 Best Places In Vietnam | Bucket List Destinations 2024

Last Updated: December 8, 2023

Vietnam – The Next Top Destination?

Why visit Vietnam? Vietnam is at that sweet spot as a travel destination where unique luxury resorts meet cheap street eats, where untouched rural nature gems are increasingly well connected to hyper bustling cities.

On the cusp of becoming the next top global travel spot, Vietnam offers an array of holiday options. From pristine beaches to historic sites, from mountain ranges to skyscrapers, these are the top 12 best places to visit in Vietnam.

Table of Contents

Majestic mountain destinations.

For a country strongly associated with the hot, humid, equatorial climate and flat landscape of Ho Chi Minh City, actually, Vietnam has many amazing mountains to offer.

Most of the mountain ranges lie in North Vietnam, the tallest peaks are close to the Chinese border. You can even experience snow here during winter. Central Vietnam is also home to some mountains, offering a refreshing escape from the surrounding cities.

1. Fansipan, Sa Pa

Fansipan is the tallest peak in Indochina, often called the roof of Indochina, standing at an impressive 3147 metres in height.

Adventure lovers should take hiking Fansipan as a challenge in stride, with options to conquer it in a day, or two days with camping. From the peak, you will get incredible sweeping views of Sa Pa , of rice paddies etched into the mountain ranges, buffalos and children at play, and unique villages belonging to the ethnic minorities.

There is also an easy way to the top – by cable car! If you choose this method, you will find a scenic landscape complex comprising of temples, amusement areas, and restaurants.

Fansipan is 9 kilometres away from Sa Pa town, a mountain town, which most foreign tourists used as a base to visit the Lao Cai province region, one of the most remote and untouched places to visit in Vietnam.

Love hiking in mountainous paradises? Check out our article on the best hiking and trekking in Sapa Vietnam 

Based in Ho Chi Minh City and looking to escape to the mountains? The good news is Da Lat is just around the corner.

Da Lat is one of the popular tourist destinations from Saigon because of its ideal temperate climate. Sitting at 1,500 metres above sea level, Da Lat is a blend of natural beauty and man-made landmarks. Come here to visit beautiful flower gardens, wild pine forests, and vast peaceful lakes.

Da Lat is the fresh food capital of the country, coffee, wine, strawberries, avocados, and many other fruits and vegetables, are all grown in this fertile area. Make sure you set aside some time to visit the local market to taste everything the region has to offer.

Hungry for more? Explore the  best food in Da Lat.

3. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a place of mystical beauty, a myriad of limestone karsts and blue waters. Legend has it that this is the place where dragons decided to descend to rest, as ‘ha’ means to descend in Vietnamese, and ‘long’ is dragon.

Taking an overnight cruise through the ancient channels of Ha Long Bay is the best way to explore this breathtaking wonder of the world. There are 3 general zones of travel – the three neighbouring bays of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay.

Visitors are free to explore thousands of limestone mountains and islands of Ha Long Bay, with plenty of opportunities to go swimming, kayaking, or caving. One can also visit floating villages, pearl farms, and One could even Sun World Halong Complex, an amusement park in North Vietnam. 

Most cruises start off from Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the region. Cat Ba Island will give you a taste of local life and is home to a variety of bars, hotels, and restaurants. It also houses the Cat Ba National Park, which is definitely worth a visit. A trip to Halong Bay isn’t complete without trying out the food. Top dishes include chả mực (squid sausage), sam (horseshoe crab). These specialties are unique to this region of Vietnam.

The legendary beauty of Halong Bay makes it one of the wondrous places to visit in Vietnam. 

Planning a trip? Here’s our round-up of the best attractions in Halong Bay

4. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is Vietnam’s well-kept secret. Often skipped over for Halong Bay or Ninh Binh, Phong Nha has a lot to offer. Picture limestone formations, underground rivers, overland lakes, tropical lush jungles, and over 100 kilometres of caves. The natural wonder of Phong Nha is not to be overlooked.

The limestone formations here have evolved since the Palaezoic period, 400 million years ago, making Phong Nha home to the oldest karst mountains in Asia.

The gem of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is Paradise Cave, often called the underground royal palace for its majestic awe-inspiring beauty. It is 31.4 kilometres in length and has a height of 60 metres, it is an impressively large cave, and is in fact the longest dry cave in Asia. Filled with stalactites and stalagmites, it is illuminated with floodlights. You can book a tour to go deeper into the cave, and this includes a swim through the underground river and lunch under these ancient rocks.

Sun and Sea Destinations

With well over 3,000 miles of coastline coupled with several reputable island destinations, Vietnam has no shortage of gorgeous beaches. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to  white sand beaches , snorkelling, tourist attractions, and all-around tropical paradises.

Whether you are looking for laidback full-service beach resorts or adrenaline-packed water sports, Vietnam has it all.

5. Phu Quoc Island

Seating at the tip of southern Vietnam is the idyllic Phu Quoc Island . A densely forested island shrouded by clear blue waters, this beach lover’s paradise is less than an hour’s flight away from Ho Chi Minh City.

The largest island in Vietnam, Phu Quoc boasts infinite stretches of beautiful white sand, thriving coral reefs, and lush green forests, it is also home to a number of Cao Dai and Buddhist temples, vibrant local markets, traditional fishing villages, and pepper plantations – perfect for visitors looking to try their hand at island living.

Of course, the main attraction of this sunny island is its immaculate beaches. Some are quiet pristine white sandy stretches, and some are packed full of life with fishing boats and seafood restaurants. The best way to see some of the loveliest beaches (and sample the catches of the day) is by motorbike, we suggest you take day trips to the northern side and another to the south, to experience them all! 

Feel like a vacation in paradise? Check out our guide to the best beaches in Phu Quoc.

6. Con Dao Islands

The Con Dao archipelago is a collection of 16 islands famous for its unspoiled beaches and lagoons. The great thing about the Con Dao Islands is that it is off the beaten path and not that easily accessible as one can only reach there by a 45-minute turboprop flight from Ho Chi Minh City.

Con Son Island is the main island in the Con Dao archipelago, with only 5000 locals living there. This rustic getaway is filled with white sand beaches and amazing seafood.

Only a single main road goes about halfway around Con Son, and the best way to get around is of course by motorbike. Catch views of jaw-dropping cliffs, tropical plants, and the perfectly calm sea. Best places to visit include the small fishing village and fresh seafood market.

War history is embedded into the everyday life of Con Son Island. During the Vietnam War, prisoners were kept in poor conditions by the French in  Phu Hai Prison . The main prison walls is still a landmark in Con Son Town and is regarded as a monument to those who died during the war and to Vietnam’s resilience. Come here to enjoy beautiful beaches while taking in important lessons from history.

Con Doa is a hidden gem. Discover more in our guide to the best activities on Con Doa Island.

7. Nha Trang

Nha Trang offers a six-kilometer stretch of beautiful coastline where one can enjoy a day of scuba diving, swimming, island hopping, or just relax and take in the lovely sunset views. This coastal town has been a well-kept secret of Vietnam and has only recently become a tourist hot spot.

There are also 19 untouched islets that are just a short boat ride away. Popular things to do in Nha Trang include mud baths, cooking classes, bicycle tours, boat cruises, and scuba diving. Nha Trang’s vast countryside is also great for exploring on foot, by bicycle and motorbike. Take a day trip out to find new beaches on the tourist trail.

For those who are looking beyond sunning on the beach, pay a visit to the salt fields at the nearby Hon Khoi Peninsula. Take in the amazing sight of women in conical hats farming salt mounts along the incredible coastline. Otherwise, spend some time at closely historical sites including the  Po Nagar Temple , a remnant of the Cham kingdom.

Discover more in our guide to the best beaches in Nha Trang

Culture Filled Destinations

Vietnam is home to some of the world’s earliest civilisations in the early Bronze Age, which started to cultivate rice along its rich and welcoming riverbanks. With this long history and 53 different ethnic groups living here, Vietnam is a fascinating destination to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Travel to understand Vietnamese culture through food, dress, language, architecture, crafts and art.

The ancient imperial capital Hue in Central Vietnam is considered the historic treasure chest of Vietnam, and the top destination to discover the fascinating culture of the country.

Hue was the capital of the imperial Nguyen Dynasty for 143 years till 1945. Sitting on the banks of Perfume river, the waters shroud Hue in charm.

At the heart of Hue is of course the Imperial City – a must-visit for all visitors to this old town. It is ringed by a moat fed by the Perfume River and houses a complex series of gated courtyards, gardens, pavilions and palaces. The most important monument is the Forbidden Purple City, a term identical to the Forbidden City in Beijing, reflecting its Chinese influence. This is the innermost enclave, which was restricted to the imperial family.

In addition, tourists must visit the mausoleums and tombs of old emperors, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Trong Tien Bridge.

Central Vietnam has some of the most unique cuisines in Vietnam , here are the  must-try dishes of Hue .

9. Mekong Delta

Hailed as the rice bowl of Vietnam, over 50% of the country’s rice is produced in the Mekong Delta. The Mekong Delta has more than 2000 years of history and is home to Vietnam’s early civilisation along its fertile banks. Understand and experience the riverine culture of Vietnam by visiting the Mekong region.

Ben Tre is one of the best places to visit in the Mekong region due to its cultural diversity. Known as Vietnam’s coconut capital, you will see many handicrafts and trade-related to the coconut industry. The lush greenery of Ben Tre also produces plenty of other fruit. Depending on what is in harvest, do make time to visit different fruit farms, and get to experience picking ripe fruit off trees!

The floating markets are a great cultural symbol of the mighty Mekong river, being the trade lifeline of many who have lived along its banks for centuries, and for other seafaring visitors in the region. The Cai Rang floating market is the largest of its kind in the Mekong Delta. Boat trips are the way to go here, jostle with the other boats selling fruits, freshly cooked Vietnamese food, flowers, knick-knacks, and more, and get ready to haggle!

Today, the Mekong remains an important symbol of power and prosperity in Vietnam and is called the ‘River of Nine Dragons’ (Song Cuu Long) in Vietnamese. 

Looking for a cultural adventure? Follow our guide to the best things to do in the Mekong Delta.

Amazing City Destinations

Vietnam is a nation developing at a rapid pace. Its cities are overflowing with cultural richness, which includes Vietnamese, Chinese, French, and other global influences.

Cities are attractive to Vietnam’s young, eager, and ambitious population, and the Vietnamese youth flock to the country’s hubs for further education and better career prospects. Likewise, many foreigners come here to join up-and-coming industries. It is no wonder Vietnam’s cities offer an exciting snapshot of ongoing life.

10. Da Nang / Hoi An

A coastal city along the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang has something for everyone. A bustling city tropical paradise known for its sandy beaches and history as a French colonial port, it has good restaurants, upmarket shopping, and plenty of cultural sites to visit. Popular beaches include An Bang Beach and My Khe Beach , which are known by travellers of Southeast Asia as some of the most beautiful destinations.

A short half hour’s drive away is Hoi An ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a prime example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th century. Its unique architecture includes Chinese assembly halls, French colonial buildings, Vietnamese timber shophouses and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. 

Both Da Nang and Hoi An are popular bases for visiting the Bà Nà hills to the west of the city. Here the hillside Hải Vân Pass offers stunning views of Da Nang Bay and the Marble Mountains, which are 5 limestone outcrops topped with pagodas and hide caves containing Buddhist shrines. The Ba Na Hills also has the famous Golden Bridge which is a 150-metre-long pedestrian bridge.

Looking for the best spots in Da Nang? Check out the best beaches Da Nang has to offer. 

Located in northern Vietnam, the capital city Hanoi is well over a thousand years old. Hanoi offers everything from temples to ancient pagodas, unique art, culture, and amazing wilderness within a day-trip distance.

The old quarter is the heart of Hanoi and also the most fascinating part of this ancient city. The old town is a maze of craft streets, where lanes and lanes of streets specialise in only selling one item. Here you can find silk street, traditional medicine street, paper street, and more.

The history of Vietnamese street hawkers has its origins in pre-colonial Hanoi, and here you can try the widest variety of delicious street food in Vietnam .

The list of things to do in Hanoi is endless. This can include visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, The Perfume Pagoda, Hanoi Old Quarter, Ba Vi National Park, Thăng Long Imperial Citadel, and Hanoi Opera House. Traffic is hectic and fast-paced in this bustling city, but you’ll be happy to know that Hanoi can be explored easily on foot or by bicycle, especially the famous and stunning west lake.

12. Ho Chi Minh City

Economic hub Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. It’s a place where the old meets the new with striking contrast. Temples are hidden among skyscrapers and cuisines with Vietnamese and global influences are consumed with gusto.

Each district of Ho Chi Minh City has its own unique flavour. District 1 is of course the city center neighbourhood and home to many of the famous historic and cultural sites, such as Ben Thanh Market, the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace), and the War Remnants Museum. It is also wonderful to simply walk around this district and take in the mishmash of brutalist and French colonial architecture.

Take a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels, to see the large network of tunnels used by Communist troops in the war against Southern Vietnamese and American forces in guerrilla tactics. You can even try to wriggle through one of the tunnels for a memorable experience.

Discover Vietnam

There are endless places in Vietnam to discover. From spots with majestic natural beauty to cities pumping with nightlife, there is something for everyone. This bucket list of 12 best places in Vietnam covers the wide spectrum of delights Vietnam has to offer.

Whether you are an expat living in Vietnam, a holidaymaker planning your next heart-stopping vacation, or simply someone who is curious about Vietnam, discover the culture of Vietnam in our handy guide.

If you want to have a staycation in Saigon , but still want to be underwater, and to explore a scenic view of the skyline, be sure to check out these awesome rooftop swimming pools .

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

A long, narrow country squeezed in between the South China Sea and the Laos and Cambodia borders, Vietnam is a land of striking landscapes that range from the lush rice terraces and forested mountains in the north to the picturesque valleys of the Central Highlands and the fertile delta and beautiful beaches of the south.

Vietnam has seen its fair share of struggles. Ruled for almost a thousand years by various Chinese dynasties until 938 AD, Vietnam became a French protectorate in the 19th century. After independence, there was the Vietnam War.

Today, Vietnam is a proud country and you can see why. Not just for fiercely defending its own independence, but for its incredible landscapes and history.

The first words on everyone’s lips when speaking of Vietnam are undoubtedly Halong Bay, a beautiful set of karst islands and formations off the northern coast. Hanoi is the bustling, motorbike filled capital. Plan your trip to this beautiful Southeast Asia travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

17. Da Nang

Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang is an energetic coastal city with a historic French colonial port.

It is known primarily for its fantastic beaches, including the famous My Khe Beach , which Tripadvisor has named as one of the best beaches in Asia.

However, it is also a popular starting point for exploration of the Bà Nà hills , which lie on the city’s western reaches. From there, the spectacular Hải Vân Pass showcases incredible views of Da Nang Bay. Moreover it conveys the Marble Mountains , five imperious limestone outcrops crowned with ornate pagodas and yield caves containing lavish Buddhist shrines.

Da Nang boasts impressive landmarks like the iconic Dragon Bridge , world-class golf courses, and a modern skyline dotted with luxury resorts and upscale shopping centres.

The city is also home to many cultural experiences, including the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture and Da Nang Fine Arts Museum.

16. Ha Giang Loop

If you pride yourself on being an adventurous traveler, then you should embrace the Ha Giang Loop with open arms.

Located in the remote and breathtaking Ha Giang province , tourists can embark on a thrilling motorbike journey through some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. This scenic loop takes you on a winding road that cuts through majestic mountains, lush valleys and terraced rice fields.

The journey provides an immersive experience, allowing you to connect with the authentic culture of the ethnic minority communities that call this region home.

Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional villages , where locals showcase their rich heritage, colorful attire, and warm hospitality.

The loop offers stunning viewpoints such as Ma Pi Leng Pass , with its jaw-dropping vistas of the Nho Que River snaking through the mountains. You can also visit attractions like Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Geopark, and the fairy-tale-like Lung Cu Flag Tower.

Typically, this journey takes three to four days to complete. Its rugged beauty and remote nature are perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

15. Bai Tu Long Bay

If you can’t get to or don’t fancy visiting Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is an excellent alternative. Situated in the northeastern part of Vietnam, it has all the pristine beauty and untouched landscapes of its more illustrious neighbor, only with greater tranquillity and fewer crowds.

The picturesque bay is characterized by its emerald waters, towering limestone islands , and lush vegetation. Cruising through it provides fabulous opportunities for kayaking , swimming and visiting remote fishing villages.

The bay is also home to a diverse ecosystem accommodating rare wildlife, colourful coral reefs and hidden caves waiting for you to discover them.

A tour of the area allows for a more intimate connection with nature and a chance to experience the serenity of the surroundings. Whilst there, be sure to visit the incredible Thien Canh Son Cave . One of 59 discovered caves in the area, it will wow you with its unique stalactite formations.

14. Tam Coc

Tam Coc, often called ‘ Halong Bay on land ‘, is an enchanting destination in the Ninh Binh province.

Forming part of the UNESCO World Heritage Tràng An scenic landscape site, it is renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts that dramatically rise out of emerald green rice fields. Tam Coc presents visitors with a stunning natural landscape that will forever leave an impression on their heart.

The main attraction in Tam Coc is a scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong River , where local rowers skilfully navigate through a series of caves and limestone formations. As you glide along the tranquil waterways, you’ll be mesmerized by the picturesque scenery and the harmonious blend of nature and verdant rice paddies.

Tam Coc is also home to ancient temples and pagodas, such as Bich Dong Pagoda , which is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

If you are into cycling, you can also explore the area in more detail on two wheels.

There are several places in Vietnam where you can go for some beach R&R, but few can compare to the sheer beauty of Mũi Né.

A stunning beach resort town along the southeast coastline, it boasts a long stretch of golden palm-tree-lined sand, perfect for walking and sunbathing. During the dry season, with steady wind conditions, the area becomes a fantastic destination for sailing, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The highlight of Mui Né is undoubtedly its captivating sand dunes . The iconic White Sand Dunes and Red Sand Dunes offer a surreal landscape that resembles a desert oasis. On our last visit, we explored the dunes on an ATV ride and sand boarded down the slopes. Both were a lot of fun!

Beyond the beaches and dunes, Mui Né offers opportunities to explore nearby fishing villages , taste delicious seafood, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Close by, The Fairy Stream, with its gently flowing water and unique rock formations, is a popular spot for a refreshing dip on a stiflingly hot day.

Year-round cool weather and idyllic scenery of misty valleys, lush pine trees and colorful flowers are some of the reasons that Dalat was once used by Vietnamese emperors and French colonials as a summer retreat. Today, this charming town in the South Central Highlands of Vietnam is a popular destination for honeymooners, weekend getaways and for those looking for relief from the heat.

A walkable city, Dalat is a beautiful scene of French colonial architecture and villas set amid picturesque landscapes. The city is well known for its royal palaces that were owned by the last emperor of Vietnam. These lovely palaces are open for tours as is the Hang Nga Guesthouse, the city’s most bizarre attraction. Informally called the “Crazy House,” this structure is a fantastical construction with caves, spider webs and shapes of animals and mushrooms.

Dalat’s lively market is a great place to find fruits, flowers and vegetables grown in the local area as well as handicrafts and silk embroidered items.

Outside the city are scenic lakes, flower gardens, plantations and mountains offering pretty waterfalls and trails for hiking and mountain biking. A must-do is the Valley of Love, an incredibly beautiful valley with pine forests and lakes where tourists can enjoy pedal-boating and canyoning.

Located on the central coast of Vietnam near the Duy Phú village is the important archaeological site known as My Son. One of Southeast Asia’s most notable heritage sites, My Son was once a significant center of religious Hindu ceremonies where the kings of the Champa Kingdom built numerous temples devoted to the worship of the god, Shiva, between the 4th and 14th centuries.

Believed to have once contained more than 70 temples that were constructed with brick and decorative carvings and sculptures bearing scenes of animals, priests, gods, mythical battles and inscriptions of Sanskrit and Champa, My Son today features a complex of ruins in varying states of disarray and repair, all arranged in several groups.

Within the site is a museum where visitors can check out exhibits and artifacts to better understand and appreciate the ruins. Near the entrance of My Son are a few cafes, food vendors and a shop selling souvenirs. At certain times of the day, visitors can watch live Champa dance performances. Additionally, the site is surrounded by jungle, hills and a lake where visitors can enjoy hiking and kayaking.

My Son is often reached by organized tour groups from Hoi An. However, visitors can also arrive at My Son by motorbike rentals.

10. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is a scenic island in the Gulf of Thailand. While it officially forms part of Vietnam, it is actually closer geographically to Cambodia . Today, it’s characterized by dense tropical jungle, soft sandy beaches, and undulating hills. But the island has a fascinating history, having served first as a French missionary base and then as a French colonial wartime prison – a gloomy reformatory that you can visit today.

History aside, the island is most tempting for its alluring tropical nature . Days in Phu Quoc are spent sunbathing on sandy beaches, scootering around fishing villages, visiting pearl and pepper farms, and, if you’re up for it, trekking to waterfalls.

An island that’s famous for its seafood, don’t miss an opportunity to try out Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce (nuoc mam) – you can even visit one of the fish sauce factories while you’re here!

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Tucked away in the Quang Binh Province in Vietnam’s Central Coast region, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the most picturesque parts of the country. With a steadfast reputation as a filming location for 2017 Kong: Skull Island, and with a nearby international airport, the national park is more popular than ever before.

Opened to the public in 2010, the appeal of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the escape from the city. Here, you’ll live life in the slow lane as you cycle through Kong jungles at your own pace.

Home to 400 million-year-old karst mountains, there are hundreds of caves and secretive rivers to explore. The Son Doong Cave is a must visit. Home to its very own hidden jungle, microclimate, and Underground River, it’s one of the largest caves on Earth .

Due to its location near the Laos border, access to the park is strictly controlled, and visitors can expect to find a strong military presence here. This is mainly due to its war history – the park has some of the world’s highest numbers of undetonated bombs, which is why visitors can only visit this place with a licensed tour guide.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh, formerly known as Saigon , is the biggest city in all of Vietnam. It’s also the old capital of the Republic of Vietnam. When Saigon fell to the north in 1975, it was renamed to HCMC, yet its former name is still used today, particularly when describing the beating heart of the city.

Hoi Chi Minh has a bit of everything – temples, museums, parks, and tourist shopping. Whatever your interests, you’ll find something to do here. Head to the top of the Saigon Skydeck for an astonishing 360-degree view of the city – especially impressive at night when the lights twinkle on below.

History buffs should not miss the chance to explore the mysterious network of the Cu Chi tunnels , the headquarters for many military operations during the Vietnam War.

The five stories of Reunification Palace – also known as the Independence Palace – is also a fascinating place to go. It’s a famous spot in Vietnam’s history as it captures the time when Saigon fell as a tank broke through the gates of the palace. A replica of this same tank can be seen on the grass outside the palace.

If you’re curious to learn more about the war, you’ll enjoy a visit to the War Remnants Museum or the Museum of Vietnamese History.

7. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta, nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam,’ is a lush network of waterways in Vietnam known for its excellent nutrient-rich soils and diverse ecosystems – the banks are a veritable patchwork of fruit, vegetables, rice plantations and cattle farms that provide sustenance for more than a third of the country.

This impressive stretch of river frontage is the most biodiverse in the world if you don’t count the Amazon. Taking up much of the south of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is an extraordinary place filled with lily pad waterways, rice paddies, mangroves, and enchanting wildlife.

With plenty of bus connections and motorbikes, tourists can explore the Mekong Delta and its towns like Tra Vinh , which is considered one of the prettiest villages of the delta. A boat trip down the tranquil tributaries and mangroves of the Mekong is an unforgettable experience.

Paddled by a local in a wooden canoe, you’ll be able to witness everyday life on the river, passing farmlands, fruit orchards, monkey bridges, water buffalo, and floating markets . The best time to visit the Mekong is during the dry season between December and May when there’s less chance of flooding.

6. Nha Trang

If it’s beaching you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam, with a laidback atmosphere and exceptional scuba diving. While it’s certainly not on the same scale as many of Asia’s other beautiful beaches , Nha Trang offers warm water and some picturesque offshore islets.

The promenade that encircles the beachfront is always a hive of activity, filled with parks and sculptures that make a stroll here interesting. As with most beach resorts, most of the activity gets going when the sun goes down, and Nha Trang is no different. You’ll find a host of vibey bars and restaurants near the beachfront.

There’s much more to Nha Trang than sunbathing and strolls, though. Go for a soak in the Thap Ba Mud Bath or take a ride on the longest cross-sea cable car in the world. The sacred Po Nagar Cham towers, dating back to the 7th to 12th centuries, offer a taste of the city’s history – they’re an active religious site for Cham, Chinese, and Buddhists even today.

Tracing the border with China, Sapa is a captivating remote town in the Hoang Lien Son mountains of northern Vietnam. Its elevation 1,500 meters above sea level is nothing to scoff at when you’re trekking the terraced hills and slopes around this high-altitude mountain town. While there’s plenty of natural beauty to tempt you to this far-reached corner of the country, much of Sapa’s appeal lies in its raw and authentic culture.

Days are spent trekking through rice paddies , rural villages untouched by tourism, and the clouds of Fansipan – Vietnam’s highest peak.

Scenery aside, the highlight is hands down the opportunity to chat with these fascinating people along the way – local kids will tag along and try to sell you some of their handmade jewelry or simply try to improve their English by speaking to you.

In the town of Sapa itself, there are attractive French colonial sites worth visiting such as the Gothic church, the town square and city hall. Sapa is a major market town where the various ethnic tribes in the area often gather to sell their handicrafts, which make excellent souvenirs. At the Sapa Culture Museum, visitors can learn all about the history and cultures of these ethnic groups.

Hue – formerly known as the Panduranga of Cham Kingdom – was once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Located in the central region, Hue had a huge role to play in the Vietnam War. Captured by the Viet Cong for a total of 24 days, thousands of people were killed here if they were thought to be sympathizers of the south.

Today, the city is split in two by the Perfume River. The old city with its ancient ruined citadel lies to the north and the modern-day city to the south. The Demilitarized Zone, which marks the official former border, is one of the most popular day trips from Hue while the Thien Mu Pagoda is the city’s official symbol.

Of the city’s monuments , the Citadel is the most famous. Once the seat of the Nguyen emperors, the Citadel is a sprawling complex of grand palaces, ornate temples, walls and gates. Prime attractions within the Citadel are the Forbidden Purple City, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Ngo Mon Gate. Another important landmark on the river is the city’s official symbol, the Thien Mu Pagoda.

A stroll along the promenade is also recommended, through the statue-abundant parks and onwards by scooter or boat cruise to the Tombs of the Emperors on the outskirts of the city. Dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, the Tomb of Tu Doc, with its striking Buddhist architecture is the cherry on top.

Laidback and charismatic with a charm all of its own, Hoi An is the highlight of any Vietnam itinerary. Located south of Da Nang within cycling distance of some excellent warm-water beaches along the central coast, this atmospheric old town is a feast of color, where bright and cheerful lanterns adorn each and every building.

The narrow, winding lanes of the old town are lined with beautiful historic buildings, Chinese temples and wooden-fronted shops with excellent opportunities for retail therapy. The bustling night market and lantern-lit streets are also great places for shopping and people-watching.

At the same time, you can also take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River or join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Wrangle a tempting spa deal, and get a dress or tailored suit handmade for you at one of the town’s many illustrious tailors.

Don’t leave without a visit to the gorgeous Japanese Covered Bridge and the glaze-roofed Chinese merchant houses that date back hundreds of years and house a quarter of the town’s population. There’s plenty to fill your afternoons in Hoi An.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is truly chaotic, but that’s all part of its charm. An interesting mix of French and Sino-Vietnamese influences, it’s one of the most rapidly growing cities in Southeast Asia.

Those visiting this energetic capital should be prepared. It’s a hive of activity at the best of times, utter chaos at the worst – a city where crossing the road could be taking your life into your own hands with cars, motorbikes, and tuk-tuks vying for right of way in a city without road rules.

One of the best places to experience the madness of Hanoi is at Legend’s Corner . The well-located Legend Beer restaurant is the ideal spot to sit with a drink and watch the rush hour insanity just before sunset. You’ll see pedestrians, dogs, cars, tuk-tuks, and scooters all entwined in traffic, yet somehow there are very few accidents.

Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets filled with charming colonial architecture, street vendors, and bustling markets. The best way to explore it is on foot or by cyclo (cycle rickshaw). This will enable you to soak up its atmosphere and discover hidden gems like the ancient Temple of Literature or the vibrant Dong Xuan Market.

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

For a change of pace, go for a stroll around the freshwater Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the Old Quarter or soak up more Vietnamese history with a visit to the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the final resting place of the Revolutionary leader and Vietnamese President, is a must-see.

1. Ha Long Bay

Located about 130 km (80 miles) east of Hanoi in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is celebrated for its gorgeous emerald-hue waters, thousands of spectacular limestone karsts, astonishing waterside caves, and beautiful tree-topped islands.

It’s a popular location for adventure – scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing can all be enjoyed in and around Cat Ba National Park . For those who wish to simply relax and enjoy the views, there are numerous Halong Bay cruises to choose from, from basic to top-level luxury.

The thousands of islands scattered about the bay are a real mixture, ranging from isolated landmasses home to free-roaming monkeys and antelope to bigger inhabited islands with some fantastic beaches . Boat cruises are the best way to experience the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay.

With hundreds of boats ranging from traditional Chinese junks to luxury cruisers, boat tours can vary from day trips to multiple-night journeys . These tours often provide meals, nightlife activities and excursion stops where islands, caves and lagoons can be explored. Most boat cruises are arranged either from Hanoi or from ports such as Haiphong, Halong City and Cai Rong.

As with most holidays on the water, Halong Bay is easily affected by the weather. Plan your trip between March and June to get the most out of your visit. June to September is the off-season, so you can usually get some great deals – just be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast as monsoons can really put a dampener on your trip.

Map of Places to Visit in Vietnam

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Reader interactions.

September 15, 2019 at 1:19 am

I hereby compose a key-word list of outstanding places in Vietnam. Hope it’s helpful for you guys searching.

1. Islands: Côn Đảo ; Phú Quốc ; Lý Sơn, Cam Ranh, Bình Ba, Bình Hưng, Điệp Sơn ,Đảo Yến Hòn Nội, ,Cù lao Chàm , Đảo Nam Du, Hòn ông đảo cá voi, Cát bà.

2. Best beaches on islands Bãi Nhát ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Suối Nóng ( Côn Đảo ), Hòn Cao ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Sao ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi Khem ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi ông Lăng ( Phu Quoc ) , Nam Du ( Phu Quoc ), Dao Be ( Ly son ) , Bai Kinh ( Binh Hung), Bai Nom ( Binh Ba ),

3. Coastal Cities : Ha Long, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Quy Nhon, Vung Tau.

4. Best beaches on coastal cities: Doc Let, Dai Lanh, My Khe, Nha Trang, Ky Co, Bãi Binh Tien, Bãi Cà ná, Bãi bắc beach da nang, quy nhon beach.

5. Best Bays Ha Long Bay, Lang Co bay, Nha Trang bay, Ninh Van bay, Van Phong bay, Cam Ranh bay.

6. Highland cities/town offer great mountain views, trekking activities : Sapa, Da Lat, Ha Giang, Cao bang.

7. Ancient cities/towns : Hoi An, Dong Van, Hue

8. Caves: Phong Nha, Thien duong, Son Doong, Hang En, Hang Sung Sot, Hang Va, He thong hang dong Tu Lan, Tam Coc bich dong

9. Rivers Mekong delta, Sông Ngô Đồng, Tràng An, Sông đáy chùa hương, Sông Son, Sông Nho Quế, Sông Chày.

10. Waterfall Thác Bản Giốc, Thác Voi, Thác Pongour

11. Lakes Hồ Ba bể, Hồ Xuân Hương, Hồ Tuyền Lâm, Hồ Tơ Nưng, Hồ Lắk, Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, Hồ Thác Bà, Phá Tam Giang.

12. Lagoons Pha Tam Giang, Đầm Vân Long.

13. National Parks Phong Nha ke bang, Nam Cát Tiên, Bạch Mã, Cúc Phương, Ba Vì, Ba Bể, Tràm Chim Tam Nông, núi chúa.

14. Terraces rice field Mù Căng Chải, Hoàng Su Phì, Tú Lệ , Sapa, Y Tý, Bát Xát, Pù Luông.

Enjoy your traveling trip!

May 1, 2019 at 2:46 am

I like Vietnam. I really do. I love their culture and traditions. Just recently I went on a trip to Vietnam and I absolutely loved it. The people there were so nice and lovely. The wildlife, vegetation and sacred places were amazing too. But I have to say, the most beautiful place that I went to in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay. The scene was incredibly stunning! I also stayed in Sapa. It has astonishing views. Especially when you look at it from a distance. It has fog surrounding the buildings, has tall mountains in the background and has brightly coloured buildings. It’s breathtakingly beautiful!

March 3, 2019 at 1:49 am

I am a Vietnamese and according to my experience, there are two places you should visit when you are in Vietnam: Cat Ba Island in the Northeast Vietnam and Phu Quoc Island in the Southeast Vietnam.

March 29, 2018 at 9:26 pm

The market in Can Cau is fabulous.

November 21, 2017 at 10:29 pm

I think these places are amazing to visit but I have a question, how is Vietnam in general? Is it a safe country to visit ??

November 8, 2017 at 8:19 am

I recommend Pu Luong nature reserve, not very far from Hanoi.

September 19, 2017 at 4:52 pm

I really liked Da Nang.

November 23, 2016 at 4:13 am

Great list. I have just spent two months in Vietnam and did most of the places except My Son and Sapa. Will come back for that. Love this country!

July 21, 2015 at 2:04 pm

There are lots of day trip activities from Hoi An– snorkeling or diving at the Cham Islands, early morning cycling trips to the countryside, visiting the My Son archeological ruins. Hoi An also has terrific food, and is a great place to wander around and explore.

June 2, 2015 at 6:46 am

There are at-least 30 incredible places to visit in Vietnam, your list is correct those are about the top places but there are alot more amazing places in Vietnam and no one should stop at just 10

November 7, 2014 at 4:11 am

Great places. You can also put Ninh Binh and Ha Giang.

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• Travel Guides

10 Of The Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

The tourist places in Vietnam that you need to visit as soon as you land.

Vietnam is among the most underrated tourist destinations in Asia. This fascinating country, lying on the eastern part of the Indo-Chinese peninsula, has an astonishing mix of natural highlights and cultural diversity providing a variety of places to visit in Vietnam. It boasts scenery ranging from jagged peaks to verdant paddy fields, along with 2,000 miles of coastline, a layered history, and rich culture—making it one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia for nature and culture lovers. The country’s lip-smacking cuisine will not only allow you to eat healthy during your travel but also let you try some intriguing flavours.

As there are a number of attractions to choose from, we’ve put together a list of the most notable places to visit in Vietnam. From the shores of the UNESCO-designated Ha Long Bay to the rolling dunes of Mui Ne and the island getaways of Phu Quoc, here are the best places to enjoy Vietnam’s sun, culture, and history.

The Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

1. largest island of vietnam: phu quoc.

The Phu Quoc district of Vietnam lies off the coast of Cambodia, making it a haven for travellers hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s busier cities. Covering a total area of 574 square kilometres, it’s the largest island in Vietnam. It comprises 28 islands, most of which are uninhabited, and all of which boast romantic sunsets, evergreen forests, and a serene atmosphere.  One of the best tourist places in Vietnam, this idyllic Vietnamese island also offers traditional villages, expansive nature parks such as the Vinpearl Safari Care and Conservation Park, and Buddhist pagodas. We also suggest you hike through the dense forests of the UNESCO-listed national park—the Phu Quoc National Park—and admire the gentle trickle of the Suoi Tranh waterfall there.

2. Vietnam’s Biggest City: Ho Chi Minh 

Formerly Saigon, Ho Chi Minh is located in the southeastern region of Vietnam. It is a unique blend of old and new, and one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. In Ho Chi Minh, you’ll find both towering skyscrapers and tree-lined streets with aging villas. As you visit the metropolis, you’ll find that it reverberates with the whirr of a million motorbikes. The burgeoning pulse offers a fascinating culture, with a hotchpotch landscape of French colonial architecture, pagodas, Soviet-style housing blocks, and sleek skyscrapers as well as venerable temples. The city is home to over eight million people and is the biggest city in Vietnam. It’s well known for timeless alleys, incense-infused temples, chic designer malls, and sleek 21st-century skyscrapers, so make sure to visit them all!

3. Lost Imperial City Of Vietnam: Hue

The most royal city in Vietnam, Hue was once the capital of Imperial Vietnam. This historical city used to be the seat of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 to 1945 and is therefore packed to the brim with relics from the reign of the 19th-century Nguyen emperors. Located on the bank of the Song Huong or Perfume River, Hue is the capital of the Thua Thien Hue province in Central Vietnam. Hue is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.  It was mostly destroyed by American bombers during the Vietnam War, but plenty remains to give you an idea of its former splendour. The city’s imperial history represents an outstanding demonstration of Vietnamese feudal power that once existed and ruled over the country.

Experience it through Hue’s complex of monuments, tombs, and pagodas, that attract tourists from all over the world. Here, visit the Chinese-style Vietnamese imperial citadel Dai Noi, which is a UNESCO-listed site, or To Mieu Temple, a beautifully restored site offering a glimpse of the grandeur of the former royal family. If you just have a day to explore this modern-day city, plan a relaxing day along the gorgeous Perfume River and visit the temples and historical landmarks of the former Vietnamese capital.

4. Vietnam’s Famous UNESCO World’s Heritage City: Ha Long Bay

The list of best places to visit in Vietnam is incomplete without Ha Long Bay. Located in northern Vietnam near the Chinese border, Ha Long Bay is considered one of Vietnam’s most beautiful spots. The name Halong Bay translates to ‘descending dragon’ and is dotted with 1,600 limestone islands and islets rising from its turquoise waters. The region covers an area of over 1,500 square kilometres and has been a designated World Heritage site since 1994.

The karst seascape of Ha Long Bay has been featured in various movies and features a wide range of biodiversity. The spectacularly impressive bay is a prime cruising territory in Vietnam, but its rampant commercialisation may detract from its raw, undeniable beauty. To escape the crowds, get on a reputable tour boat, or stay on Cát Bà Island. If you want to avoid crowds, a trip to Bai Tu Long Bay can be another option.

5. Largest City In Central Vietnam: Da Nang

A one-time French colonial port on the central coast, Da Nang is located in central Vietnam. This beach town boasts a long coastline with beautiful beaches and incredible bridges such as the Dragohn Bridge and the Golden Bridge. Da Nang is Vietnam’s third-largest city and is home to some of the country’s best beaches. It marks the halfway point between the capital city in the north, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh in the south. It is full of centuries-old pagodas, French colonial buildings, set against tranquil beaches with clear blue waters, and verdant national parks.

6. Hiking Capital Of Vietnam: Sa Pa

A township located in northwestern Vietnam, in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains, Sa Pa is the top trekking destination in Vietnam. The town first became popular as a French hill station in the 1930s, and later became a popular trekking base overlooking the terraced rice fields of the Muong Hoa Valley. Sa Pa is set on a 1,650-metre-high mountain ridge and boasts dramatic landscapes of Vietnam’s mountainous region. The town’s vivid rice terraces host a colourful market that’s attended by the hill tribes from the neighbouring countryside every Saturday. The cool, misty town of Sa Pa is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam as your hikes allow you to explore its waterfalls, stunning landscapes, rice terraces, and hill-tribe villages of countryside Vietnam. 

7. Vietnam’s Most Graceful And Historic Town: Hoi An

This alluring town on Vietnam’s central coast dates back to the 15th century and is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port. It is the capital of Vietnam and offers a unique heritage that can be seen through its buildings and street plans which reflect indigenous and foreign influences. Hoi An used to be a strategic port for the Chinese, Japanese, Indian, French, Dutch, and Portuguese sailors and traders until the mid-1800s. In 1999, the city was granted the status of a UNESCO heritage site. Find the ancient ruins of the Islamic Champa kingdom here, enjoy some of the best Vietnamese food in the country, walk along the streetside markets and explore the city’s quaint cafes and independent shops on its signature cobbled streets.

Also Read: What To Do Within the Butter Yellow Walls of the Old Town In Hoi An, Vietnam

8. The Rice Bowl Of Vietnam: Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a network of distributaries in southwestern Vietnam and is also known as Dong Bang Song Cuu Long in Vietnamese or the river delta of nine dragons. Located between Ho Chi Minh and Cambodia, this delta comprises dense green rice paddies, lazy canals (and streams), islands, villages on stilts, and a way of life that hasn’t changed for centuries—all of this making it a must-see destination in Vietnam. The Mekong is Asia’s seventh longest river, crossing through the Tibetan Himalayas in China, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia, covering over 4,000 km, it reaches Vietnam where it slows down to a more languid pace. This maze of waterways crisscrossing the floodplain offers a picturesque scenery filled with incredibly lush, paddy fields, coconut palms, fruit gardens, and mangroves.

Just hitch a ride with a cargo boat or go on a cruise to make your way to the region’s colourful floating markets and get closer to locals’ daily life.

9. Vietnam’s Most Famous Seaside Resort-town: Nha Trang

This city of Nha Tran is the capital of the Khánh Hòa province and is located on the south-central coast of Vietnam. It offers white sand beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, verdant mountains, and untouched islands. It’s also home to the remnants of the Champa kingdom, Buddhist temples, gothic-style Catholic churches, and eclectic cuisine, comprising fresh seafood and interesting mixes like bun cha ca (a rice noodle dish with grilled fish and jellyfish). Don’t forget to visit the natural hot springs, salt fields, and unique waterfalls of the Nha Trang that offer numerous sightseeing and recreational activities such as jet skiing, surfing, or even a flyboard, if you’re brave enough.

10. A Traditional Fishing Village: Mui Ne

You can escape the hustle and bustle of Saigon, at this beautiful beach resort town called Mui. Once a sleepy coastal fishing town, today it’s commonly referred to as Mui Ne and also includes portions of Ham Tien Ward and Phan Thiet City. With its renowned coastline, the town is a prime destination for windsurfing, sailing, and kitesurfing. Mui Ne’s known for an expanse of desert called the White Sand Dunes and Red Sand Dunes nearby, which are both popular for sand-surfing and hot-air balloon rides.

Out Of These Tourist Places In Vietnam, Which Will Be Your First Pick?

This Southeast Asian country will lure travellers from around the world with its varied landscapes, natural beauty, culture, food, and a delightful mix of megacities and ethnic villages. But as tourism is growing fast in Vietnam, it also needs to keep a check and encourage responsible and sustainable travelling. As a traveller, you can help by visiting local communities or by opting for services from an operator with a responsible tourism policy, or not purchasing anything made out of endangered species. Vietnam is also wonderful to explore on a cycle, so give that a try. Hope this list helps you in picking out the best Vietnam locations. Tell us all about your trip to the best places to see in Vietnam in the comment section below.

Also Read: Get Exploring With This List Of The Best Things To Do In Vietnam

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

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Exceptional Destinations in Vietnam

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With so many inviting choices, figuring out where to go in Vietnam isn’t easy. The vibe, food, and culture differ greatly between the north and south; there are more than enough exciting places strewn between Hanoi and Saigon.

No trip to Vietnam is complete without walking the busy, narrow streets of Hanoi, a city best described as the cultural heart of Vietnam. The vibe in Hanoi is dramatically different from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Love it or hate it, you can’t experience Vietnam without seeing Hanoi.

But don’t assume that Hanoi is all cold, heartless concrete, because life centers around a beautiful lake and park in the middle of the city.

Hanoi gets chilly in the winter, so there are better times  than others to visit.

Ha Long Bay

TripSavvy / Angelina Piliarinos

The top tourist destination in Vietnam, Ha Long Bay can be reached via a five-hour bus from Hanoi or packaged boat tour in Hanoi. The scenery in Ha Long Bay is breathtaking, but choosing the right tour for a good experience is crucial.

2,000 islands and islets in Ha Long Bay jut dramatically from the water; the opportunities to grab gorgeous photos are overwhelming. You’ll need more than one day to enjoy Vietnam’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vibrantly green rice terraces cascade down rugged mountains in Sapa, a great place for trekking and interacting with ethnic minority groups. Getting to Sapa from Hanoi takes a little effort, but if you’re craving fresh air and homestays, you’ll find plenty of both.

Hue, pronounced “hway,” was the imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty, but the city was made most famous by its role during the Vietnam War. Bullet holes are peppered throughout the Citadel, the former forbidden city accessible only to the emperors and their concubines. The Battle of Hue was one of the fiercest during the 1968 Tet Offensive.

The Imperial City and Citadel in Hue are best enjoyed on bicycle. Tombs for various emperors can also be visited.

Da Nang, Vietnam’s fifth largest city, sits roughly between Hanoi and Saigon. The city served as a major hub of operations for South Vietnamese and U.S. forces during the Vietnam War. The air base there was considered to be one of the busiest airports in the world due to the amount of daily sorties flown.

Da Nang is home to an expat community and the infamous China Beach, a popular rest-and-relaxation spot for American G.I.s during the war. Although there aren’t a lot of things to do in the city, locals are friendly and hole-in-the-wall bars abound. Nearby Hoi An is much more touristy but also more charming for an overnight.

Although the word is out and the town stays busy, Hoi An is a favorite for many visitors to Vietnam. The atmosphere is simply unforgettable at dusk as swinging lanterns illuminate ancient, brick streets. Hoi An once served as an important trading port, but today it is most famous for tourism and the abundance of cheap tailor shops that will customize clothing to order.

Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts an ever-increasing number of tourists. The famous Japanese Bridge there is beautiful at night. Don’t miss your chance to try the rarest noodle dish in the world when visiting Hoi An.

Nha Trang is a good-sized city with wide beaches that attract Vietnamese tourists as well as Western travelers and backpackers. Nha Trang is arguably Vietnam’s scuba diving epicenter, and groups can hire sailboats, along with a captain, to enjoy the beautiful bay.

Vin Pearl Land , attached to Nha Trang by cable car, is a large five-star spa, resort, and entertainment complex.

TripSavvy / Angelina Pilarinos

If you’re looking for a mostly quiet beach town without the backdrop of hotel high-rises, Mui Ne is the spot. Mui Ne is famous for its kitesurfing scene; Western enthusiasts live there seasonally between November and March to take advantage of the wind and surf. One end of Mui Ne is very popular with Russian tourists, even signs and menus are in Russian.

Backpackers head to Mui Ne to enjoy the sand dunes just a short motorbike ride away from the beach. Travelers can rent sheets of plastic for sledding down the dunes.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

Although Saigon was renamed to Ho Chi Minh City, travelers and locals alike often still refer to Vietnam’s largest city as Saigon . The energy and pace of Saigon are certainly more electric than in Hanoi. Saigon has the best nightlife in Vietnam with “bia hois” along the streets selling light, locally brewed beer for less than 50 cents each.

An abundance of historic sights are dotted around Saigon, including the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Water puppet shows are also a popular attraction.

The airport in Saigon is Vietnam’s largest and busiest, so it is best to check into  flying into Vietnam .

Mekong Delta

Travelers interested in a quieter, unique experience should make a trip from Saigon to see the Mekong Delta. Numerous villages and rice paddies line matrix of canals and waterways that form Vietnam’s most productive agricultural center.

Although a handful of places in the Mekong Delta are busy with tourists who go for river cruises , a more “authentic” experience can be enjoyed by easily getting off the beaten track. The Mekong Delta is around four hours by bus from Saigon.

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• Vietnam Travel Guide

10 Best Tourist Attractions In Vietnam You Have To See

The choice of Vietnam tourist attractions is staggering; this mesmerizing country blessed with jaw-dropping natural beauty, an unfair tally of World Heritage Sites, historical legacies extending from 10th-century pagodas to wartime tunnels, vibrant cities revealing multi-national architectural wonders, and rich cultural diversity. One trip may not be enough, but for first-timers, be it, honeymooners or adventure seekers, here’s our what to see on your trip to Vietnam .

The beauty of Hoi An Old Town is well renowned

1. Hoi An’s Ancient Town

Hoi An’s utterly charming Ancient Town is one of Vietnam’s top attractions, but despite the crowds, still hasn’t lost its beguiling charm. Centrally located in Hoi An town, alongside picturesque Thu Bon River, this compact enclave was once a thriving Silk Road trading port, from the 16th to 19th centuries. Today, this beautifully preserved Ancient Town is one of Southeast Asia’s oldest towns and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, its atmospheric narrow streets lined with centuries-old cultural treasures, historic sites, and quaint buildings, a hybrid of the port’s multi-national architectural legacies.

Admire the Chinese shophouses and gaudy assembly halls, iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and faded French colonial-era mansions. This old quarter is also home to a strong local community, with markets and artisan workshops and riverside open-air cafés and restaurants, perfect for sampling local culinary delights. The Ancient Town comes into its own after dark, especially during the monthly, full moon lantern festival, when, traffic-free streets are illuminated solely with hundreds of multi-colored silk lanterns and vibrant with traditional festivities.

The old kingdom in ruins

2. My Son Cham Towers

While in Hoi An, be sure to visit My Son Cham towers , located southwest. Not only is this one of Vietnam’s most striking examples of its ancient Champa Kingdom and a World Heritage Site, but also one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites and a foremost Hindu temple complex. Set in a narrow wooded valley, surrounded by forested mountains, this evocative Cham temple sanctuary was once an important spiritual and political center and royal burial ground of the former Champa civilization, built between the 4th to the 14th centuries.

My Son lay neglected for centuries, rediscovered by French archaeologists in 1898. Ravaged by time, ironically the greatest damage occurred during the Vietnam War, however, the majority of the central complex managed to survive the bombs and some parts are being restored. Devoted to Hindu Gods, the sanctuary is comprised of more than 70 red brick and sandstone temples arranged in clusters, incorporating striking decorative carvings, stele, sculptures, and inscriptions.

Today, in various states of ruin, repair, and vegetation overgrowth, My Son nevertheless is still impressive, with around 20 temple structures still standing. There’s also an interesting on-site museum; visit early morning to escape the tour groups and heat.

Palace in the noisy city center

3. HCMC’s Independence Palace & War Remnants Museum

Wartime legacies are prominent attractions in Ho Chi Minh City and these two museums are the most popular, equally fascinating, and a must-do experience. The imposing Independence Palace (or Reunification Palace) is of great symbolic importance in the nation’s history. Formerly, the South Vietnam government’s HQ and official presidential residence, this was where North Vietnamese Army tanks crashed through the main gates on April 30, 1975: the defining ‘Fall of Saigon’ moment and the start of Reunification.

Now a ‘National Cultural and Historical Relic,’ museum and VIP function space, this landmark monolith building, ensconced in pretty grounds, stands frozen in time from that fateful day. Take a guided tour through five floors and rooms preserved in the 1960s and 1970s time-warp: highlights include the bomb-proof basement, with secret tunnels and war command room, kitschy cinema and casino, and glittering reception halls.

Although somber and gut-wrenching, the War Remnants Museum is the city’s most-visited museum, where a series of exhibition rooms starkly chronicles the horrors and futility of war – (both the Vietnam and Indochina wars). Shocking exhibits contain graphic photojournalism, notorious ‘tiger cages’ and legacies of chemical defoliants, while the outer courtyard is littered with wartime fighter planes, tanks, and bomb varieties.

An entrance to the tunnel

4. Cu Chi Tunnels

Located north of Greater Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels provide a more interactive historical experience for all ages (although claustrophobics should perhaps miss this one).

Stretching for 100-plus miles towards former Saigon, this immense network of connecting underground tunnels was the secret HQ for the Viet Cong’s military operations during the Vietnam and Indochina wars. Of immense strategic value, the Cu Chi Tunnels played a major role in the Northern Vietnamese victory, regarded as one of their proudest wartime achievements.

These historic tunnels have now been preserved and transformed into a war memorial park and hugely popular attraction. Visitors can enter two short sections of the original tunnel network, at either Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc villages, which have been restored, slightly widened and cemented. Led by guides, crawl along the deep tunnels and get a rough idea of what conditions were like and see former subterranean facilities, like the conference rooms.

Above-ground attractions include a shooting range, display of mantraps and burnt-out tanks and a restaurant serving simple meals that the soldiers would have eaten. Some half-day tours offer speedboat transport along the river, for part of the journey here.

Vendors at work

5. Mekong Delta’s floating markets

The southern Mekong Delta is Vietnam’s most productive agricultural area, with an intensively cultivated bountiful landscape brimming with rice paddies, banana, sugarcane and coconut plantations, tropical fruit orchards and more. Visiting the Mekong Delta is one of the absolute musts when in Vietnam.

This lush, flat ‘Delta is also dominated by – and highly dependent on – the Mekong River, which branches out into a network of waterways and tributaries that for many is the main way of getting around. This may explain why this region’s traditional means of trading are floating markets, a way of life and trade for well over a century.

Despite modern-day developments, the ‘Delta’s floating markets are in decline, but many still operate in strategic localities; for visitors, this is an iconic Vietnamese sight and wonderful opportunity to engage with locals and experience a traditional southern culture – besides a fantastic photographic opportunity. Take an early morning guided tour on a small vessel, weaving in amongst dozens of colorful barges piled high with seasonal produce and household items and ordering Vietnamese breakfast and coffee from floating kitchens! The largest, most renowned floating markets are Phong Dien and Phung Hiep, but especially, Cai Be and Cai Rang, popular for its vibrant atmosphere. All can easily be visited in a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, but afterward, continue boating deep into the ‘’Delta countryside, disembarking at fruit orchards and stilt-house communities.

A forbidden city of Nguyen Dynasty

6. Complex of Hué Monuments

Located in the Central Provinces, Hue was Vietnam’s imperial capital from 1802 to 1945, the home of a dynasty of Nguyen Emperors and the nation’s political, cultural and religious heart. All those imperial legacies, a collection of relatively well-preserved ancient monuments, royal court traditions and relics of great historical and cultural importance, now come listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, or ‘Complex of Hue Monuments.’ Thus, this amiable, languid city, majestic beside the scenic Perfume River, offers visitors many attractions to see, many easily accessed by bicycle or on leisurely ‘Dragon Boat‘ cruises.

Hue’s crown jewel is the magnificent 19th century Imperial Citadel, a sprawling walled complex containing the Imperial Enclosure, Forbidden Purple City, palaces, temples, gates, and much more. Although much was destroyed during the Vietnam War, many parts are under restoration and worth exploring, including the Flag Tower, Ngo Mon Gate and Thai Hoa Palace. Other gems cover several Mandarin Garden Houses and the incredible Emperor’s royal mausoleums lying hidden amid the river valley and low-lying hills. Among Hue’s numerous exquisite pagodas, don’t miss the most historic, the seven-tiered, 17th century Thien Mu Pagoda. Even Hue’s delicious imperial cuisine is descended from the royal courts!

Fish farms in Halong Bay

7. Halong & Lan Ha Bay

This vast bay area is not just one of Asia’s most spectacular natural wonders, protected as a World Heritage Site, but one big tourist attraction in itself and one of Vietnam’s most iconic sights. Northern Vietnam’s stuff of legends, this ‘Bay of Descending Dragons’ presents an ethereal seascape of 2,000-plus limestone islands and rock formations magically jutting out of the Gulf of Tonkin’s emerald-hued waters. Halong Bay’s southern extension, the extraordinarily beautiful Lan Ha Bay, reveals equally stunning scenery, but as a relatively new tourism destination with fewer tourist vessels passing through, offers a more remote, tranquil experience.

Both Halong and Lan Ha bays are prime cruising territory , especially the overnight luxury varieties, viewing an ever-changing backdrop of jungle-clad karsts from the sundeck and a fantastical playground for nature and adventure activities. Explore mythical caves and floating fish farms, kayak to hidden lagoons, and snorkel off coral beaches, while the bay’s largest island, Cat Ba, offers trekking, mountain biking, and rock climbing opportunities for amongst primeval rainforests. For the ultimate birds-eye view, take a stupendous seaplane scenic flight over the entire bay.

Spectacular site in Ninh Binh Province

8. Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex

In northern Ninh Binh Province, Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex is uniquely a World Heritage Site for both its nature and culture, spellbinding visitors with its spectacular landscapes of timeless waterways and jungle-covered limestone karsts and towering cliffs dramatically rising from jade-green valleys, along with ancient sites of great national significance.

The big drawcard is taking a paddleboat through two main tourist attractions, in this watery wonderland, dubbed a ‘land-locked Halong Bay and ‘outdoor geological museum.’ At Tam Coc, enjoy a slow, languorous sampan ride along the tranquil Ngo Dong River, which merges with lush rice paddies surrounded by surreal limestone formations and gliding underneath three low-hanging grottoes. At Trang An, an equally impressive boat ride transports you along emerald-green waterways brimming with rich biodiversity overshadowed by stunning islets and a series of karst caves and caverns which the boat passes through. Off the boats, be sure to visit magnificent Bái Đính Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist pagoda complex and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where two dynastic temples stand at the site of 10th and 11th-century citadel.

Flower vendors are always present in the Old Quarter

9. Hanoi’s Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake

Nestled beside the Red River, Vietnam’s enchanting ancient capital, Hanoi, is jam-packed with wonderful things to see. Key attractions and centuries-old legacies are clustered in clearly defined historic districts, with the most popular being the evocative Old Quarter, a compact, a square kilometer of ancient merchant quarters, dating back more than 500 years – something not to miss on your vacation in Vietnam.

Since the 15th century, each street specialized in specific craft merchandise of which it was named after; even today, some of these charming streets still specialize in that original product or the modern equivalent, from tombstones to silk.

Take a stroll or cyclo ride through this endearingly chaotic quarter, a fascinating glance at Hanoi’s daily life played out on the streets and soak up key sights that include merchant ‘tube houses’ and 11th century White Horse Temple. Be sure to stop-off at one of the gorgeous artsy cafés and street food eateries.

Just south is Hoan Kiem Lake, an unexpected oasis of tranquility and beauty at the heart – literally – of Hanoi, awarded ‘Special National Relic’ status. Translating as ‘Lake of the Restored Sword,’ legend-strewn Hoan Kiem is hugely popular with locals and tourists at any time. However, come at sunrise, when Hanoians flock here to exercise on the lake’s shaded shores and on weekend evenings when the surrounding streets morph as a vibrant pedestrianized zone with open-air entertainment.

Hanoi is the best place to watch the performance

10. Vietnamese Water Puppets

You don’t have to be a child to enjoy Vietnam’s enchanting water puppetry; deep insight into traditional folklore and a surprisingly quirky, cultural experience. Traditional water puppetry originated in the North’s Red River Delta, where for centuries, farmers practiced this recreational art form in flooded paddies. Handed down the generations, this unique puppetry nearly died out but has seen a huge revival, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and performed in theatres in major cities and award-winning international tours.

Hidden behind a bamboo screen, puppeteers manipulate lacquered wooden puppets using rods while wading in waist-deep water, which act out traditional stories based on ancient folk tales and rural village life on an ever-changing, watery stage, The hour-long shows of short vignettes are accompanied by live traditional music and while all in Vietnamese, the comical, delightful puppetry and music keeps the audience enthralled. In Hanoi, book your tickets at the world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and in Ho Chi Minh City, at The Golden Dragon Water Puppetry Theater or Museum of Vietnamese History.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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12 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam For The Trip Of Your Life

Vietnam is a treasure trove of all things nature and culture. so, if you're planning to visit, here are the best places to visit in vietnam..

By: Anushka Goel Published: Jan 12, 2023 01:00 PM IST

One of the most sought-after Southeast Asian travel destinations over the last couple of years has been Vietnam. The country is a treasure trove of all things nature and culture, and is amazing for the budget traveller, too. So, if you’re planning on travelling, here are the best places to visit in Vietnam.

If you’re looking to visit more countries this year, Vietnam should be on your bucket list. The country is complete with scenic landscapes and ancient architectural sights such as temples. Great for budget travellers, Vietnam has ample city experiences and some of the most delectable street food options.

Vietnam is also great for digital nomads and expats, as INR 1 equals VND 280, roughly. So, in case you’re planning to visit this beautiful, cultural nation, here’s your guide to the best places to visit in Vietnam for an enriching experience.

Places to visit in Vietnam for an amazing experience

Ha long bay.

Ha Long Bay (also spelled as Halong Bay) is a beautiful destination that boasts of azure waters and clear skies . The place speaks of tranquility, and it consists of limestone formations which make it all the more mesmerising. The best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site is through boats, so be sure to hire one when in the area. Ha Long Bay also offers overnight tours to get enchanted in its mesmerising beauty through the night. It is truly among the best places to visit in Vietnam, and will make for a memorable experience (or two)!

How to reach: Ha Long Bay can be reached via road (about four hours from Hanoi) and train (a station is in Ha Long City). The closest airports are Van Don Airport, Noi Bai International Airport and Cat Bi International Airport.

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The Vietnamese capital is a place vibrant with local culture blended with ample modern amenities, making it a great place to visit and stay at. The second largest city in the country, Hanoi also offers some unique experiences such as dining along a railway track, delectable street food, ample lakes, museums and many architectural marvels.

How to reach: Hanoi, being the capital, is well-connected via roads, air and train. International flights from various cities in India also ply to Hanoi multiple times in a week.

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Cu chi tunnel.

Vietnam has seen its fair share of war, and thus, the country also has some destinations that take you back to the era. Among them is the Cu Chi Tunnels . The extensive network of these tunnels was used during the war, and the stretch for over 250 kilometres. They allowed troops to operate and communicate with Ho Chi Minh City. When here, get a guide who will take you through the narrow, unlit areas of the tunnel – so much so that you might have to go down on your knees and crawl through some sections!

How to reach: You can reach here via road from Ho Chi Minh City

Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta is formed where the Mekong River finds its wat to the city. Among the best places to visit in Vietnam, the destination is characterised by the crisscross maze that the waterways form. Also known as the ‘ Rice Bowl of Vietnam ‘, the destination is complete with lush paddy fields and a robust local life. Visit the floating markets via boat and see places such as the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve, among other beautiful places here.

How to reach: The place is accessible via road

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Among the places to visit in Vietnam us Hue. The town is a historic location, filled with relics from 19th century Nguyen emperors. Witness marvellous archaeological sites, the magnificent Perfume River, old but mighty gates, tombs, pagodas and a lot more on your visit here.

How to reach: The closest international airport is in Da Nang, while the domestic airport closest to Hue is 30 minutes away. The place is also reachable via train and road

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Ho chi minh city.

The largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the commercial centre here. Visit for its restaurants and cafes, insane cosmopolitan culture and its heritage spots, too. At the centre of the city is Dong Khoi, known for most of the city’s touristy destinations. Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s museums that house relics and artefacts from the 19th century and before, plus experience the stunning (and few surviving) examples of the French colonial architecture here.

How to reach: Ho Chi Minh City is well-connected via air, road and train. The international airport here also connects the country to major cities abroad

My Son is an important site in Vietnam and is one of the most stunning and charming places to visit. The place is surrounded by mountains covered in a dense cover of forests. The ruins in My Son date back to the 4th Century, and this old Hindu religious centre is still much in use till date. The temples located here are made or red bricks and sandstone and have influences from India and Malaysia.

How to reach: My Son is accessible via Hoi An, and can be reached via road

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Hoi An is a town complete with lots of history. The place has beautiful (and well-preserved) merchant houses, going back to Hoi An’s trading era in the 15the century, is an important part of the country’s trade history with Japan and China . A lot of these houses are open to the public, where you can visit and experience those times. What’s more, the many small pagodas and beautiful, quaint streets to transport you back to the simple times.

How to reach: Da Nang International Airport is about 30 kilometres from Hoi An, and you can also reach here by road

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If you want to spend a couple of days in the quiet countryside, head to Sapa. The place shares its border with China, and is complete with terraced hills and many slopes. The rural villages and raw, authentic life here is what is attractive about Sapa, which makes it great for those wanting to stay away from the cities. Head there for treks and some calm. Purchase handmade jewellery and head to the gothic church, colonial sites and more.

How to reach: The nearest train station is in Lao Cai, and Sapa is reachable by car from most major towns

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What makes Phu Quoc popular is its clear blue waters and white sand beaches, making it a popular destination for travellers. Located in the south of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is great for sipping on cocktails as the sun goes down, grabbing a bike to trail the dirt roads, and fun local markets with delectable cuisine and beverages.

How to reach: Phu Quoc is connected via air and roads. You can also board a ferry till here from several other destinations

Yet another destination known for its sandy beaches is Nha Trang. Among the places to visit in Vietnam, this city is packed with locals as well as visitors, and has ample spots for you to hit the water as well as soak up the sun. And in case you’re done exploring the beaches, the destination has old temples and towers that you should head to and explore. There’s also a museum here, dedicated to the work of Alexandre Yersin, that you should visit.

How to reach: The nearest airport is Cam Rahn, and the destination is also reachable via road. Trains also reach Nha Trang

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Phong nha-ke bang national park.

One of the most magnificent places to visit in Vietnam is the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The place, which is also a popular filming location, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots in the country, and is home to the 400-million-year old karst mountains. There are hundreds of caves and secret rivers here that will enchant you. The best part? There’s a hidden jungle, filled with its own microclimate, tucked away here!

How to reach: The nearest airport is Dong Hoi, which is connected via domestic flights. The destination is also reachable via road

Hero Image: Courtesy of Steve Douglas/Unsplash; Featured Image: Courtesy of Tomáš Malík/Unsplash

Related:  Vietnam Travel Guide: Best Places To Visit, Where To Eat And All Other Details

• Explore Vietnam
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Anushka Goel

Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument. Read Less

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

• March 11, 2022

Most visitors to Vietnam are drawn by the country's stunning natural beauty, which ranges from the green rice fields of the north to the fascinating bustle of the Mekong Delta in the south. On the other hand, Vietnam has a long history and ancient traditions. It has a lot of historical sites and old temples—an overview of Vietnam's most fantastic tourist attractions.

1. Ha Long Bay

Halong Bay's karst seascape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most mesmerizing seascapes. Thousands of limestone islands in the Gulf of Tonkin have been eroded into jagged pinnacles by wind and water action over millennia.

It is prime cruising territory, with the bay's scenery best seen by boat. A day trip will not suffice to visit Halong Bay's iconic views, so book at least an overnight tour.

Numerous caves in the bay can be visited, including the Hang Sung Sot, three massive caverns, and the Hang Dao Go, which has extremely strange stalagmites and stalactites. However, the highlight for most people is simply cruising through the karsts and taking in the changing scenery of pinnacles as they pass by.

The old town section is full of decaying beauty, and history buffs should visit the plethora of good museums.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Vietnam Fine Art Museum are excellent introductions to the country's many artistic offerings. At the same time, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a fitting memorial to the country's founder.、

3. Nha Trang

The swimming is superb, with designated swimming areas and manicured lounging areas, making this a terrific alternative for relaxed days in the sun and sand.

There is also an excellent museum dedicated to Alexandre Yersin's work, who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague and built the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang (which still carries out vaccination programs in Vietnam today).

4. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh has a diverse range of attractions, including temples, museums, parks, and tourist shopping. You'll find something to do here that suits your interests. Take a trip to the top of the Saigon Skydeck for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, which is especially striking at night when the city lights shine.

Cu Chi tunnels, the secret network that served as the headquarters for numerous military operations throughout the Vietnam War, should not be missed by history enthusiasts.

Reunification Palace, also known as the Independence Palace, has five levels and is a beautiful destination. It's a prominent place in Vietnamese history because it depicted when a tank crashed through the palace gates, bringing Saigon down. You can see a copy of this tank on the grass outside the palace. A visit to the War Remnants Museum or the Museum of Vietnamese History will satisfy your curiosity about the war.

The beautiful Ngo Mon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace with its exquisitely lacquered interior detailing, the Dien Tho Residence, where the Queen Mothers would live, and the Halls of Mandarins with its intact ceiling murals are all worth seeing when walking the grounds. Outside the Imperial Enclosure's boundaries, there are many historical sites.

Taking a riverboat tour on the Perfume River is one of the most pleasant methods to see a range of outlying locations. On a day cruise, you can see various royal tombs and pagodas. If you only have a limited amount of time, the Tomb of Tu Doc is the best tomb to visit, and the Thien Mu Pagoda, with its 21-meter-high tower, is the most important in the neighborhood.

6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a stunning karst mountain formation honeycombed with large caves and home to superb stalactite and stalagmite displays, is one of the greatest sites to visit in Vietnam for caving. The Paradise Cave, which stretches for 31 kilometers beneath the ground, is the park's most popular attraction.

The vast caverns are incredibly breathtaking. Tu Lan Cave is a "wet cave," therefore swimming through the cave system's river is part of the experience. The Phong Nha Caves, where the interior is entered by boat, is the most famous adventure. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is accessible from Son Trach.

7. The world cultural heritage My Son

The Chan people of Vietnam began building dozens of Hindu temples around Duy Ph more than 1,600 years ago. Several of these temples still survive in the shadow of Cat's Tooth Mountain, surrounded by a green valley. The majority of the temples, collectively known as My Son, are now in ruins. Because of its remote location and lack of tourism infrastructure, visiting My Son is like stepping back in time.

8. Mekong Delta

Can Tho is the most famous town to utilize as a base since it is adjacent to the Phong Dien and Cai Rang floating markets, and boat rides from Ca Mau allow you to see the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve?

9. Sapa Countryside

The verdant rice field region surrounding Sapa, flanked by the rugged peaks of the Hoang Lien Mountains (sometimes still referred to as the Tonkinese Alps by French colonial era residents), is home to some of Vietnam's most magnificent rural panoramas.

The Hmong, Giay, and Red Dzao people live in the deep valleys, while the undulating hills are planted with rice crops and overlooked by the country's tallest peak, Fansipan Mountain.

Here provide many possibilities for trekking or day hiking through tiny villages while taking in the breathtaking mountain scenery. Sapa is the significant base here. It is a historic French hill station transformed into a bustling and ever-expanding tourist destination that stands in stark contrast to the lush, quiet landscape immediately on its doorstep.

Many of the old merchant houses have been opened to the public, allowing you to get a sense of what life was like back then. Tan Ky House, built in the 17th century and featuring outstanding architectural and ornamental characteristics, is the best.

The charming Japanese Bridge at the western end of Tran Phu Street is Hoi An's most well-known emblem, while the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation is the old town's most ornate temple. The city is littered with little pagodas and museums, but the main pleasure of Hoi An lies in simply strolling through the ancient town streets and admiring the well-preserved buildings.

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12+ Best Tourist Attractions of Vietnam

• on Dec 5, 2023       By: Japon

Vietnam is a stunning Southeast Asian nation renowned for its historical significance, magnificent landscapes, and cultural diversity. Vietnam imparts a diverse array of tourist attractions that accommodate various types of travelers, spanning from vibrant urban centers to tranquil rural regions. This article aims to examine the essential attractions and lesser-known locales that contribute to Vietnam's status as a preferred tourist destination on an international scale.

Tourist Attractions of Vietnam 1. Hanoi: A Confluence of Modernity and Tradition 2. Ho Chi Minh City: A Dynamic Urban Haven 3. Ha Long Bay: A Natural Wonder 4. Hoi An: The Ancient Town 5. Hue Imperial Citadel 6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park 7. Mekong Delta 8. Sapa: Unspoiled Mountain Beauty 9. Ninh Binh- Halong Bay on land 10. Ha Giang  Discover Vietnam's Best Beach Tourist Attractions Nha Trang Phu Quoc – The Tropical Paradise Da Nang

1. Hanoi: A Confluence of Modernity and Tradition

Old quarter: the heart of hanoi.

Concealed within the labyrinthine pathways of Hanoi's Old Quarter resides a cultural and historical repository. With its vibrant marketplaces, ancient temples, and delectable street cuisine, this lively neighborhood is a sensory delight.

Hoan Kiem Lake: Legend and Beauty

A tranquil oasis in the midst of the urban chaos, Hoan Kiem Lake is situated in the center of Hanoi. The legend that the lake is inhabited by a legendary tortoise enhances its allure. Immerse oneself in the tranquility by visiting Ngoc Son Temple and taking a leisurely promenade around the lake.

Temple of Literature: A Glimpse into Vietnam's History

The Temple of Literature, which is imperishably devoted to Confucius, exemplifies the profound cultural legacy of Vietnam. This remarkably preserved complex functioned as the inaugural university of the nation and continues to be a significant emblem of learning and enlightenment.

2. Ho Chi Minh City: A Dynamic Urban Haven

Ben thanh market: shop and savor.

Enter Ben Thanh Market, a lively center of business and exchange, offering a wide array of goods ranging from indigenous crafts to delectable street cuisine. Immerse yourself in the intricate network of lanes, negotiate with merchants, and indulge in the delectable tastes of Vietnamese gastronomy.

War Remnants Museum: A Powerful Reminder

Explore Vietnam's turbulent history at the War Remnants Museum. This museum offers a deep understanding of the destructive consequences of the Vietnam War and pays tribute to the strength and determination of the Vietnamese population through its thought-provoking displays.

Cu Chi Tunnels: Delving into History

Explore the periphery of Ho Chi Minh City and uncover the elaborate system of Cu Chi Tunnels. Employed by Vietnamese forces during the conflict, these tunnels provide a look into the historical narrative of the country and demonstrate the ingenuity of its inhabitants.

3. Ha Long Bay: A Natural Wonder

Cruising through karst landscapes.

Seize an enchanting voyage through Ha Long Bay, an internationally acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage site distinguished by its majestic limestone islands and emerald waters. Explore concealed caverns while sailing amidst the karst formations, and behold a mesmerizing sunset over the bay.

The stupendous caves of Thien Cung and Sung Sot

Thien Cung and Sung Sot tunnels, two of the most magnificent caverns in Ha Long Bay, conceal their secrets. Distinguished by their exquisite stalactites and stalagmites, these caverns consistently captivate visitors.

Cat Ba Island: Nature's Playground

Visit Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Ha Long Bay, to escape the crowds. Cat Ba National Park offers visitors the opportunity to engage in daring treks, investigate pristine beaches, and perceive rare fauna.

4. Hoi An: The Ancient Town

Japanese covered bridge: hoi an's icon.

Behold the magnificent Japanese Covered Bridge, an architectural marvel that has earned the city of Hoi An its emblem. Constructed during the 16th century, this bridge exhibits a remarkable fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural elements.

Lantern Festival: A Magical Experience

Embrace the mesmerizing ambiance of the Lantern Festival in Hoi An. Each fourteenth day of the lunar month, an enchanting exhibition of vibrant lanterns takes place in the ancient town, engendering a mystical atmosphere that is certain to impact visitors profoundly.

Tailor-Made Clothes: Style Meets Tradition

Hoi An is widely recognized for its proficient tailors and reasonably priced custom-tailored garments. As you select the fabric, design, and measurements, observe as proficient artisans convert your conceptualization into a fashionable and customized article of clothing.

5. Hue Imperial Citadel  

Prior to World War II, the Imperial Citadel of Hue served as the imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty of Vietnam for nearly 150 years. Centrally located within the fortified ramparts was an area referred to as the Purple Forbidden City, which was restricted to members of the royal family only. The strategic significance of this magnificent Imperial Citadel was further enhanced by its location near the demilitarized zone that partitioned North and South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Enthusiasts of the nation's history will find this site to be of immense importance.

6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Vietnam's Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is an ideal location for cave exploration. This extraordinary karst mountain formation is replete with vast caverns that showcase remarkable formations of stalagmite and stalactite. The site provides an assortment of caving activities that accommodate visitors of varying degrees of daring. The more daring can venture on multi-day caving and hiking excursions, while those who prefer easier access can choose from half-day excursions that include boat rides and modern boardwalks to caves. Furthermore, the park offers trekking and mountain bicycling opportunities. Popular attractions in the park include the Phong Nha Cave, which is reachable by watercraft, and the Paradise Cave, which extends an astounding 31 kilometers underground. Arrangements for convenient half-day excursions can be made upon your arrival in the vicinity. Tu Lan Cave, renowned for its enthralling underground river system, and Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world, are two of the park's most renowned caverns. Organizational excursions facilitated by Oxalis, Fêtise Adventure Tour Company, provide exclusive access to these caves and specific others within the park. Reservations should be made in advance to ensure a reserved space. Schedule your visit outside of the rainy season, which spans from October to December and results in the closure of several caverns within the national park, in order to maximize your experience. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is accessible via the village of Phong Nha, which is also known as Son Trach.

7. Mekong Delta

In the floodplain of the southernmost region of Vietnam, the Mekong River empties into the sea via an intricate network of waterways. The area is exceptionally verdant, offering picturesque vistas of paddy fields and mangroves, and bustling with indigenous inhabitants. Floating market excursions by boat are an absolute necessity for tourists visiting this intriguing region. Can Tho is the most frequently utilized town as a base because of its close proximity to the Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets. One may embark on a boat excursion from Cau Mau to the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve. This area of Vietnam is home to the Tra Su Bird Sanctuary Forest and the Bac Lieu Bird Sanctuary, making it a paradise for nature lovers and bird observers.

8. Sapa: Unspoiled Mountain Beauty

Trekking adventure in muong hoa valley.

Venture forth on an indelible trekking expedition amidst the aesthetically pleasing terrains of Muong Hoa Valley. Explore remote hill tribe villages, terraced paddy fields, and the distinctive culture of ethnic minority groups.

Rice Terraces: An Photographer's Paradise

Capture the awe-inspiring splendor of the terraced rice fields of Sapa, an agricultural engineering marvel. Crafted by indigenous agricultural laborers, these lush inclines adorn the mountainous terrain, presenting an enthralling panorama that is a photographer's paradise.

An Immersion in Culture at Vivid Ethnic Markets

Delve into the dynamic ambiance of Sapa's ethnic markets, where an abundance of traditional handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce await you. Engage in social interactions with the amiable inhabitants, experience the vibrant atmosphere, and acquire a more profound comprehension of the indigenous way of life.

9. Ninh Binh- Halong Bay on land

Cruise through the tam coc rice fields..

There is a beautiful landscape complex called Tràng An in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. In 2014, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stunning limestone karsts, lush green valleys, and the sight of boats smoothly navigating the waters of the Red River Delta are just a few of the things that make this scenery so beautiful. The area in question includes the town of Tam Cốc-Bích Động, which people just call "Tam Coc." The town is famous for its rice fields, which are so beautiful that UNESCO has recognized them. The best way to see these things is to take a relaxed boat trip along the Ngo Dong River and enjoy the ethereal scenery. Access to Tam Coc has gotten better since the last time we checked. In recent years, the area has become more popular with tourists because of its many appealing features. Buses and trains both take about three hours to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. People who don't want to plan their own trips can also choose from planned day tours and two-day trips. It is suggested that you set aside at least one day, if not more, to visit Tam Coc, no matter how you get there. Many people who go to Ninh Binh area say that they wish they had time to visit Hang Múa. At this attraction, tourists can climb a total of 486 stone stairs that lead to an amazing view.

10. Ha Giang 

Ha giang loop.

Ha Giang loop, a province in Vietnam's northeastern region, shares a border with China. This less-visited region is well-known for its magnificent scenery. It is without a doubt the most gorgeous province in Vietnam, out of all of them. Travelers with an adventurous spirit and a desire to explore undiscovered territory should not miss the Ha Giang loop. Before embarking on an expedition, prepare yourself by packing your stuff and charging your batteries.

Dong Van market

Once a week, the sleepy village of Dong Van transforms into a cultural and commercial hotspot in Northeast Vietnam. Residents from surrounding villages and valleys flock to Dong Van, and the roads are congested with tourist busses. On a Sunday, you can observe natives dressed in traditional ethnic attire, sip juice from fresh coconuts, and browse innumerable stalls. Dong Van has everything for sale, including water buffalo, delectable Hmong and Tay cuisine, vividly colorful garments, and fragrant spices.

Discover Vietnam's Best Beach Tourist Attractions

Situated on the eastern coast of Vietnam, Nha Trang is an aesthetically pleasing metropolis that embodies exhilaration. Nha Trang is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, which features an assortment of immaculate beaches and aquamarine waters. One could occupy their days basking in the sun on the golden dunes or invigorating themselves in the alluring waves.

Pristine Beaches and Crystal Clear Waters

Nha Trang is renowned for its extensive lengths of unspoiled beaches, including Tran Phu and Long Beach. The fine white sand and deep blue waves provide an idyllic environment reminiscent of a picture-perfect postcard. Nha Trang's beaches cater to both those desiring seclusion and those seeking a lively ambiance. This location is an ideal destination for snorkelers.

Exciting Water Sports and Activities

For those who have a strong passion for adventure, Nha Trang will not fail to meet your expectations. Participate in exhilarating aquatic activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, or even scuba diving. Explore the dynamic aquatic realm teeming with vivid coral reefs and extraordinary marine fauna. Discover the Mun Island Marine Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and thrilling diving experiences.

Phu quoc – the tropical paradise.

Phu Quoc, situated in the Gulf of Thailand, is a picturesque haven celebrated for its unspoiled beaches and awe-inspiring sunsets. This tropical paradise is a sanctuary of serenity, providing a genuine respite from the fast-paced and chaotic nature of everyday existence.

Idyllic Beaches and Spectacular Sunsets

Phu Quoc is renowned for its exquisite beaches, characterized by velvety sands and transparent waters, making them among of the most stunning in Vietnam. Long Beach, Sao Beach, and Ong Lang Beach are among the serene locations where one can unwind and immerse oneself in the tropical ambiance. As the evening draws near, admire the awe-inspiring sunsets that illuminate the horizon with a radiant golden hue.

Abundance of Marine Life and Coral Reefs

Explore the captivating marine ecosystem of Phu Quoc, where a vibrant array of aquatic creatures awaits your discovery. Equip yourself with snorkeling gear and venture into the beautiful coral reefs, which serve as the habitat for numerous species of tropical fish. The An Thoi Archipelago, designated as a marine conservation area, provides exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences due to its rich and varied nature.

Da Nang has emerged as a premier tourist destination in Vietnam, thanks to its harmonious blend of scenic splendor and contemporary infrastructure. The city's immaculate beaches, renowned landmarks, and lively gastronomic scene render it an enchanting coastal sanctuary.

Beaches for Every Preference

Da Nang, with its extensive coastline, offers a wide range of beaches to suit all inclinations. My Khe Beach, which has been ranked as one of the top beaches in Asia by Forbes, provides crystal-clear waters and velvety sands that are ideal for sunbathing. Non Nuoc Beach is a haven for water sports fans due to its excellent surfing conditions.

Iconic Attractions and Landmarks

Da Nang boasts renowned landmarks that harmoniously integrate with its pristine natural surroundings. Admire the magnificent Marble Mountains, a group of limestone structures surrounded by myth and mysticism. Ensure you do not overlook the renowned Dragon Bridge, a remarkable architectural masterpiece that emits flames and water on weekends.

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Best places to visit in Vietnam: top 12 destinations

Due to its long coastline filled with diverse landscapes, distinct cultures, and great food, Vietnam is one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia for both natural and cultural lovers. Come and get lost in a quaint Hanoi , revel in the scenic mountains of Ha Long Bay , Ninh Binh or Sapa in the north, enjoy alluring cultural heritages of Hue and  Hoi An in the central, pump yourself up in bustling Ho Chi Minh  (Saigon) and immerse in the beautiful nature of Mekong River Delta in the south. If beaches are what you’re looking for, Phu Quoc , Nha Trang , Mui Ne or Da Nang are just some of the most popular options.

In 2020, Sapa slips to the bottom of the list, mainly because of the many under construction. In contrast, the coastal alluring town of Hoi An becomes a must-see destination in Vietnam.

The peak time of the year to travel is from December to January, the first half of February, the second half of March and April. However, it’s possible to travel all year-round in this wonderful country of ethnic minorities and terraced rice fields. Check out the best time to travel to Vietnam in detail to fully enjoy your journey.

Just remember, during the 30th April (Reunification Day), 1st May (Labour Day), and 2nd September (Independence Day of Vietnam), domestic travel surges as these are public holidays in the country. Tourist attractions can be very crowded along with transportation and hotels booked out well in advance.

12. Sapa – The roof of Indochina

The frontier township of Sapa, located 1,500 m (4,900 ft.) above sea level in the northwest area of Vietnam, is the place to find jaw-dropping and unparalleled scenery. The steep of  O Quy Ho pass contrast with the deep, green Muong Hoa valleys  and terraced rice fields in Ta Phin village , with long winding roads weaving in and out of the hills. Throughout the region live a multitude of diverse, vibrant ethnic minority groups , such as the Hmong, Dao, Giay, and Tay to name only a few. The hill-tribe villages are hidden in bamboo forests, behind waterfalls, and within fertile valleys, making every town more beautiful than the last. The Roof of Indochina , Mount Fansipan , stands here at 3,143 m (10,300 ft.), offering a glimpse through the clouds and mist into the numerous valleys of North Vietnam and China.

Things to do

Recommended length of stay

Most travelers choose to spend 2 nights in Sapa. With 2 nights, you can explore the town and do trekking to hill-tribe villages and areas away from the central town. If you can manage to visit Sapa in the weekend, stay another day to attend Bac Ha market.

Time to visit

Sapa is beautiful year-round but there may be floods from June to September. If you wish to “date” with terraced fields, you should go in May – watering season or from the end of September to early October – ripe rice season.

Accommodation

Sapa offers accommodation for all tastes , from home stays in local minority villages to luxury hotels. Most properties are around the town itself within walking distance to the market, old church, and restaurants. The destination tends to be busy on weekends and quiet during the week due to heavy influx of domestic travellers. So when visiting the area, save money by scheduling your stay during the week or in months other than May, June, July and December.

Sapa serves unique dishes of local people in minority villages like Thang Co (horse soup), Com Lam (bamboo sticky rice), free-range pig, salmon hot pot, dried buffalo meat and many Asian or Western ones as well.

Transportation

Destinations in Sapa are not far away from each other, so you can rent a motorbike at the price of around USD 5 per day. Cable car in a round trip to Fansipan costs USD 26 per adult and USD 18 per child.

How to get to Sapa

Hanoi – Sapa: 315 km

The only options are bus or train. Due to the rough road, it will take about 5 hours on the bus from Hanoi to Sapa. There are two options for the train to Sapa. The traditional trains with soft seat and soft sleeper. You need to spend 8 hours on the train and then catch a bus because the train only stops at Lao Cai station (35 km away from Sapa). For a better traveling experience, try privately-run sleeper cabin for which you pay 8 – 12 USD more.

Best places to go near Sapa

11. mui ne – a warm sandy coastal town.

Located in Phan Thiet city, Mui Ne is a coastal fishing town in southern Vietnam, the perfect getaway from Ho Chi Minh City. Mui Ne Beach and Hon Rom island are one of the most favored destinations here. The coastline is filled with a string of beach resorts ranging from budget to pricey and chic. Popular for the numerous wind-surfing camps in the area, check out Mui Ne between October and April to try this adventurous sport. Other interesting activities include surfing the gigantic Red sand dunes outside the city with sandboards and ATVs or taking a half-day gentle walk through the charming Fairy Stream Canyon.

Thanks to its relatively small size, 2 to 3 days is enough to enjoy the best things Mui Ne has to offer.

From December to April is the best time to travel to. Mui Ne is one of the localities with the lowest rainfall in Vietnam.

A hot destination for active travellers, Mui Ne has a fair range of hotels to choose from. The destination is visited year-round, thus hotel rates are quite stable. Although it is busier in the summer due to domestic tourists (May to August), you can always find a room with good value in Mui Ne any time of the year.

Food in Mui Ne is mainly seafood due to its location. This place is also famous for its trademark fish sauce. “Mai” fish salad and Grilled squid teeth are must-try dishes, which make up the uniqueness of Mui Ne cuisine.

If you are not interested in local food, there are a handful of western restaurants. Don’t expect fine dining in this town but for sure you can have good meals while staying here.

Banh quai vac

Taxi, private car, motorbike

Private car is great option if you are travel in group of 4 or more.

How to get to Mui Ne

Air There is no airport in Mui Ne or Phan Thiet city. You can fly to Da Lat (Lien Khuong Airport) or Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport), then continue to Mui Ne by road.

Bus or Train From Ho Chi Minh City, you can either take the train or bus to get to Mui Ne. The distance of 218 km takes you about 5 hours. The closest train station is in Phan Thiet city from where you continue by bus to Mui Ne (1 hour). The bus will drop you off in the center of Mui Ne.

Best places to go near Mui Ne

10. phu quoc – vietnam’s island paradise.

Phu Quoc is a tropical island , 40 kilometers away from the south coast of Vietnam, in the Gulf of Thailand. With a list of sandy palm-fringed beaches and turquoise water as Sao Beach, Long Beach and Khem Beach , these islands are one of the best beach destinations in Vietnam. The northern part of Phu Quoc is a part of a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve while the southern coastline is filled with luxury resorts, funky bars, and quaint cafes. Phu Quoc is also famous as the top producer of fish sauce – an essential spice in Vietnamese cuisine.

There is a bunch of activities on this paradise island. Do hiking in the Phu Quoc National Park and look out for wildlife. Tour the fish sauce factory and local Ham Ninh fishing villages . Dive the offshore coral reefs, kayak in the bays, watch the romantic sunset, or just lounge on the beach, followed by a fresh seafood dinner.

A 4-day trip is perfect for Phu Quoc. Use one day to explore the national park and one day for the local village, temples. Spend two days left to enjoy the beach. If you just want to relax on the beach, two days should be enough.

Feel free to enjoy this tropical paradise almost year-round except the rainy season from July to September.

Phu Quoc is home to some of the most beautiful beach resorts in Vietnam (JW Marriott, Intercontinental..). A vast bulk of hotels and resorts in Phu Quoc is on Long Beach or Bai Dai in the local language. You can find everything here, from budget hostel to 5-star beachfront resorts. If you want a place to stay away from the tourist hub but still easily pop into town, Bai Ong is the ticket.

Phu Quoc has been a hot destination for both domestic and international tourists. Therefore, food and beverage service is well developed. You can easily find local restaurants as well as western-style restaurants here. Being an island, seafood is no doubt the most typical food in Phu Quoc. Traveler can enjoy fresh seafood at a very affordable price. If you have a local guide, tell them to take you to buy seafood from local fishermen. They offer the freshest goods at a very good price. Some of the dishes you should try when traveling Phu Quoc: Banh Canh (fish and pork noodle soup), Bun quay (shrimp noodle soup), Goi ca mai (raw herring salad).

Motorbike, bike, bus, private car, taxi, electric cart.

Motorbike is a favorite vehicle to explore this island, but when it’s rain, you should consider a car or taxi instead. The average rental fee for motorbike is 150,000 – 200,000 vnd/day ($6.5 – $10). The electric cart is a new service for tourists, which is opened in late 2018. The route pass through most of the famous attractions in Phu Quoc.

How to get to Phu Quoc

Air Opened in 2012, Phu Quoc international airport is 9 km from the island center (Duong Dong town). The airport serves domestics flight from/to Can Tho, Da Nang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can fly to Phu Quoc in 1 hour.

Bus + Boat Expect to spend around 8 – 10 hours if you choose this type of transportation. First, take the bus to Rach Gia Habor, which takes you 6 hours. Catch the ferry to Phu Quoc island (2.5 hours)

Best places to go near Phu Quoc

9. nha trang – a coastal resort city.

The coastal resort city of Nha Trang is another gem of Vietnam’s central region. The white sand beaches , shimmering turquoise waters , and luxury accommodation of the lux Ninh Van Bay rival that of Thailand is not only the landscape but hospitality. Come for the world-class beaches and stay for the eclectic cuisine, comprised of fresh seafood and interesting mixes like Bun Cha Ca, a rice noodle dish with grilled fish and jellyfish. It is also possible to discover the legacy of the Champa Kingdom , descendants of seafaring settlers who reached the Southeast Asia mainland from modern-day Borneo and Sumatra. The impact on modern society can be seen and felt at Po Nagar , a Cham-styled temple tower with intricate carvings. The Buddhist Pagoda of Long Son also showcases the heritage of Vietnamese settlers in the region.

Cheap seafood, beautiful beaches, exotic nightlife, three days in Nha Trang is the right amount of time to enjoy all of this.

This coastal town is alluring from December to April. The rainy season is from October to November.

One of the biggest beach destinations in Vietnam, Nha Trang is a prime beach vacation choice for many tourists and locals. Nha Trang has a wide range of hotels and resorts including many luxury brands such as Amanoi and Six Senses, found outside of the city in secluded bays. At the same time, budget accommodation is very affordable, usually found on the main drag of Tran Phu Street inside the city. Nha Trang is super busy during the summer (May to August) and between December to March. Book your room early when it comes to national holidays such as the Lunar New Year, Christmas, and Labour Day.

Nha Trang serves both diversified kinds of seafood and a wide range of international restaurants.

Private car, taxi, motorcycle, bicycle.

Depending on the model (mountain or city bike), bicycle daily rentals are priced between USD 4 and USD 6. The prices for renting a motorcycle are from USD 5 to USD 7.

How to get to Nha Trang

Da Nang – Nha Trang: 533 km Hanoi – Nha Trang: 1291 km Ho Chi Minh – Nha Trang: 433 km

Air Cam Ranh international airport serves Nha Trang area with domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, the airport is 30 km south of the city.

Train There are trains line connecting Nha Trang and other major destinations like Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, Hue, Hanoi. The best way to buy tickets is to visit the station in person in advance. You can also buy them through a hotel/travel agency with an extra for commission.

Best places to go near Nha Trang

8. da nang – a coastal resort city.

Da Nang, from a transit point, has redefined itself into a worthy destination of Vietnam. Boasting long coastline with beautiful beaches and recently incredible bridges, Da Nang definitely worth a visit. Da Nang is among a few destinations that can offer both beach and mountain. Some of the must-see attractions are My Khe beach , Non Nuoc beach , Son Tra Peninsula , Marble Mountains , Ba Na Hills , Golden Bridge , The world cultural heritage My Son , Linh Ung pagoda . You can find excellent local street food as well as good western restaurants here. The city is located a 40 – minute drive from Hoi An and 2 – hour from Hue, which are both notable destinations.

Without taking day trips to neighbor destinations, the city of Da Nang is perfect for a 2-day getaway.

The best time to visit Da Nang is from November to April. March and April are the most exquisite months which are warm and dry, perfect for both beach activities and mountain trekking. Fireworks festivals are usually organized from May to July. There may be storms in November.

Da Nang witnesses a construction boom in tourist accommodation. Hotels and resorts spring up every day, giving travelers many choices from budget hotels to high-end properties. You can find luxury, world-class resorts in Da Nang, such as Intercontinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort or Pullman resort. Midrange hotels with a set of blocks close to the beach have the price from $40 per night. For luxury accommodation, it is from $100-200 each night. These often offer a beachfront location with a private beach and sea-view pool. Expect to pay up to $1000 each night if you truly want to make a splash in the private infinity pool of your multi-bedroom villa.

The local specialty is a must-try when you are traveling Da Nang. Mít trộn (mixed jackfruit), ốc hút (fried snails with lemongrass and chili), Chè xoa xoa hạt lựu (a type of sweet food), Bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo (Pork rice paper rolls) are some of the most famous local dishes in Da Nang. You can also find the famous specialty of Hoi An here in Da Nang – Quang noodle. If local food doesn’t suit your taste, you can easily find good western-style restaurants or Chinese, Korean, or Japanese food.

Motorbike, bike, bus, private car, taxi, electric cart, cyclo.

Use ride-hailing apps instead of the traditional taxi when traveling a short distance to save money. Grab is the most popular ride-hailing app. Cyclo is also an excellent way to explore the city. Cyclo service in Da Nang is professional compared to other destinations. It costs around $5/hour. The two electric cart routes run along the beachside road, passing by most of the iconic attractions.

How to get to Da Nang

Air Da Nang International Airport is in the city center with daily flights connecting the city with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat, Can Tho.

Train Da Nang train station is 5 km from the city center. The North to South train line has a stop in Da Nang, which allows you to travel Da Nang from all stations throughout Vietnam. There are also local train lines that connect Da Nang with Quang Binh, Quy Nhon, …

Bus Da Nang bus station is one of the busiest stations in Vietnam. There are numerous departures for northern and southern destinations every day.

Best places to go near Da Nang

7. mekong river delta – a vast labyrinth of rivers.

The Mekong Delta is a floating world made up of a vast maze of rivers and fertile, alluvial soil in southern Vietnam. Referred to as Dong Bang Song Cuu Long in Vietnamese, or the river delta of nine dragons, this haven for l ush rice paddies, wildlife, and tropical fruits and vegetables is a biological treasure trove of the world. Some of the most famous attractions in the region are Cai Rang, Cai Be floating market, Tram Chim national park, Tra Su Mangrove Forest, Sam Moutain . The shimmering Khmer Pagodas (Vinh Trang pagoda) of the largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho , showcase a proud Vietnamese and Cambodian heritage. In addition, to the natural wonder of the area, the culinary delights abound in regional delicacies such as Lau Mam, a hotpot with fermented fish, and Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese-styled crispy pancake. As much of the lifestyle in the area revolves around the river, many of the villages are often only accessible by canals and boat, creating the atmosphere of land frozen in Cochinchine time.

If you want a quick look of the floating market and local life, a one-day tour could be enough. Stay for 3 to 5 days to fully experience more attractions of Mekong Delta.

This floating maze is worthy-visited in any season of the year. Ripe rice seasons are in early April, late August and late November.

Accommodation facilities are not as developed in other regions of the country. Most international visitors who choose to stay in the Mekong Delta instead of day-tripping from Ho Chi Minh City spend the night on cruise  or in simple homestay . Most hotels cater to domestic guests with prices reflecting the local budget. A few boutique properties exist around My Tho and Can Tho but due to competition, fill-up quickly. If you wish to stay in one of these properties, book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Mekong Delta is lack of international dishes but serves flavorful ones like Hu tieu My Tho (My Tho noodle soup), Lau Mam (fish sauce hot pot), Dua Ben Tre (Ben Tre coconuts).

My Tho noodle soup

Ben Tre coconuts

Boat, bicycle.

It is an amazing experience to get on a boat ride along the small channels to admire the wildlife. You can also ride a bike around the smallest villages.

How to get to Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta: 193km Although the Mekong Delta has 12 different provinces, the most common route is to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho, which is home to the well-known Cai Rang floating market. Here are some suggestions for your 169-km-journey.

• Bus: It’s cheap, and there are many departures daily.
• Boat: An interesting way to travel and take a look at the local life on the riverside
• Airplane: Can Tho has an airport, so instead of sitting for 3 hours on the bus, you can shorten the traveling time with a 45-minute flight.
• Motorbike: If you like the feeling of immersing yourself in the scenery around, consider motorbike. It’s cheap and easy to rent one almost anywhere in Vietnam.

Best places to go near Mekong Delta

6. hue – the remains of feudalism.

Situated on the banks of the sleepy Perfume River , the imperial city and ancient feudal capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue, still retains much of its regal and grandeur of the days of old. Home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to the preservation of important historical attractions like the Imperial Citadel , Forbidden Purple City , and beautiful tombs of Emperor Ming Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh, Hue is the perfect place to start a journey into the ancient and recent history of not only central Vietnam, but the country as a whole. Feel the spirituality in Thien Mu Pagoda , brought to international attention during the Vietnam-American War. Dine on the exquisite and refined way of food preparation with the eponymous Bun Bo Hue , a type of spicy noodle and beef soup named after the city it was created in, and other classics like Bun Thit Nuong and Com Hen.

You should spend about two days in Hue, which give you enough time to visit the imperial citadel, tombs, and pagodas. If you keen on war history, spend one more day for DMZ tour. It will be a day trip from Hue.

From December to April, the weather in Hue is dry and cool, leaving ample time to enjoy the many historical attractions.. Most annual festivities are held in April. From late May to June is the time for heat waves with the temperature can reach over 40°C (104°F). Rainy season can occur in October and November.

Surprisingly cheaper than other destinations in Vietnam, Hue has lovely hotels and urban resorts around the legendary Perfume River. Although the choice is not as extensive as Hoi An or Da Nang, hotels in Hue are generally cheaper and offer a good value for money. Boutique accommodation with heritage rooms are priced between 35 – 75 USD per night, while stays along the pristine beaches of Lang Co start at 100 USD per night. Most hotels rent bikes free of charge to visit the charming city.

Hue is often credited with the creation of over 1000 dishes during the time of the Imperial Dynasties. The delicate mix of sweet and spicy flavours pairs nicely with the intricately prepared and styled meals. When in Hue, be sure to try the iconic Com Hen (clam rice), Bun Bo Hue (Hue beef soup), Banh bot loc (chestnut starch cakes), Banh canh (thick noodle soup), Nem lui (Lemongrass skewers). Expect to pay between 2 – 4 USD for meals in local restaurants and 6 – 15 USD in nicer restaurants with wi-fi and beautiful garden settings.

Lemongrass skewers

Private car, taxi, motorcycle, bicycle, cyclo.

Transportation costs in Hue are not expensive. Private car or taxi are the best option. Traveling by cyclo within Hue City Centre or driving a motorcycle at a cost of around USD 5 per day like the locals is also a good choice.

How to get to Hue

Hue is easy to reach from other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam by air, train or private car.

• option 1: Take the flight from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to Hue
• option 2: Fly to Da Nang and take the chance to visit this amazing city. Travel to Hue by road

Train The north-south train line between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City has a stop in Hue. The rate varies depending on the speed of the train, type of seat/sleeping berth.

Best places to go near Hue

5. ninh binh – ha long bay on land.

The lush Red River Delta in northern Vietnam creates the dreamy landscape of Ninh Binh, often referred to as “ Ha Long Bay on land ”. Known for its karst mountains and hidden grottoes , cave temples , green valleys and shimmering rice fields , Ninh Binh is an incredible insight to the simple beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An Scenic Landscape complex and Tam Coc are best visited by rowing boat, while the Cuc Phuong National Park contains incredible vistas along its hiking trails. For an epic panoramic view of the river running through rice fields, climb the stairs to the top of Mua Cave . Nearby is the river gateway to Hoa Lu , the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. The largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam exists here, consisting of Bai Dinh and Bich Dong Pagoda, as well as Phat Diem Stone Cathedral .

2 days is the ideal time to discover highlights of Ninh Binh. However, if you don’t have much time and want to see as more as possible, one day tour is still fine.

Ninh Binh is scenic year-round. From late May to June and from late September to October, ripe rice fields add fascinating yellow to the picturesque scene.

Ninh Binh is emerging as a top destination in North Vietnam, with more and more properties added to its accommodation list. The city tends to have more budget hotels and homestays for quick stays. There are only a few high-end options available and some properties have a limited amount of rooms so you need to reserve early. Take advantage of the free bicycles on offer from most hotels to get the most of the dreamy landscapes.

Delicious dishes made from goat are Ninh Binh’s special cuisine. Besides, Com Chay (rice crust), Goi Ca Ghenh (Nhech fish salad), Oc Nui (mountain nails) are also popular. Ninh Binh does not serve many Western restaurants.

Motorcycle, bicycle.

Tourists can rent a motorbike (5 – 7 USD/day) or a bike (3 – 4 USD/day) to explore the tiny paths next to the fields.

How to get to Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is 100 km southeast of Hanoi. The easiest way is to start from Hanoi. Bus and train take more than 2 hours while the private car takes under 2 hours. Ninh Binh’s bus station is near the railway station, which is a 15-minute drive from Trang An.

Best places to go near Ninh Binh

4. hoi an – coastal alluring town.

Ancient, peaceful, colorful, it’s why the charming city of Hoi An in central Vietnam is such a popular destination for travelers and locals alike. Indeed, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An’s Ancient Town is filled with traditional Vietnamese tube houses, heritage Chinese architecture of Fukian Assembly Hall or Cantonese Assembly Hall , a famed Japanese Covered Bridge and beautiful French colonial buildings, often painted in a sunny yellow. Hoi An is not only famous for its romantic ambiance but also its wonderful local cuisine, especially Com Ga (chicken rice), Cao Lau (a traditional noodle soup), and Banh bao – Banh vac, a secret recipe only available in the area. The vibrant handcrafted lanterns glowing in the evening dusk as small rowing boats gently glide down the Thu Bon River , and large amount of bespoke tailors and original handicrafts make this cute town the highlight of any trip to Vietnam.

Ideally, you should spend at least three days in Hoi An. You won’t regret it. Stay 1 or 2 extra days if you want to relax on the beach. An Bang is listed in the 100 best beaches around the world by CNN.

Hoi An is appealing all time of the year, but more elegant on Tet Holiday and every night of the 14th lunar month with lantern festivals held in the ancient town. March and April are warm, months to enjoy An Bang beach. It is blazing hot in late May, June and July.

One of the most iconic cities in central Vietnam, Hoi An receives millions of tourists from all over the world each year. The city boasts a beautiful selection of boutique hotels and resorts suitable for anyone’s budget. Most hotels can be found in the old town or along the seaside of Cua Dai. Many tourists choose to stay in Da Nang and make day trips to visit Hoi An. If you choose a hotel by the river outside of the city, you can expect a calm nice view of the countryside from your room.

Give a try to some specialties of Hoi An like Cao Lau, Com Ga (chicken and rice), Mi Quang (Vietnamese turmeric noodles), Hoanh Thanh (wonton dumplings). There are a few restaurants that serve European food, quite tasty and affordable.

Vietnamese turmeric noodles

White rose dumplings

Motorcycle, bicycle, boat, cyclo.

Getting around Hoi An by bicycle and motorcycle is the easiest and cheapest way because of the compact size and rarely busy traffic. Boat travel (about USD 3 in 30 minutes) is also popular when you desire to contemplate the beauty along Hoai and Thu Bon River.

How to get to Hoi An

Hanoi – Hoi An: 800 km Ho Chi Minh – Hoi An: 939 km Da Nang – Hoi An: 30 km Hue – Hoi An: 121 km

• option 1: Take a flight to Da Nang from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, then travel by road to Hoi An.
• option 2: Take a flight to Hue from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, continue to Hoi An by car or train.

Tourist Bus or train + bus Most of the bus and train will only stop in Da Nang from where you need to make your own way to Hoi An. Usually, the best option is the tourist bus or the deluxe bus. These buses depart from Hanoi, Hue, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh and take you direct to Hoi An.

Best places to go near Hoi An

3. ha long bay – spectacular tourist trap.

The natural beauty and aesthetic importance of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder , is a true jewel in the crown of Vietnam’s beauty. Boasting a spectacular seascape filled with thousands of towering limestone islands, karst grottoes, and quaint junk boats cruising the sparkling emerald waters, visiting this area truly is like stepping into a fairy tale, the stuff of legends.

Legend tells of foreign invaders attacking Vietnam in its early stages as a new country. The Jade Emperor sent a family of dragons to help the Vietnamese defend their country; as the dragons descended from the sky, the dragons spit out jewels and jade into the water, which transformed into thousands of islands and islets, creating a strong wall that could not be breached. After the battle finished, the dragon family decided to stay on Earth and live out their days. The place that the Mother Dragon descended is known as Ha Long Bay – the bay of the descending dragon .

2 day 1 night is the most popular choice of traveler to cruise Ha Long Bay. For an in-depth experience and staying away from the tourist hub, plan to stay here for 2 or 3 nights, so you can reach Bai Tu Long Bay, Cat Ba island where you can immerse in untouched nature.

Ha Long Bay has the most gorgeous beauty in April with a crystal blue sky. The weather is pleasant from November to March, a good time to go. However, you should consider visiting in August and September due to its typhoon season.

Ha Long Bay has a wide range of hotel accommodations on offer. In addition to guesthouses, hotels, and resorts, there is also a large selection of cruises to choose from. The vast majority of foreigners stay at least 1 night on board to see the beauty of Ha Long Bay. Various types of boats and budgets are available from budget to top luxe. Don’t forget to book your cabin early to see the best of Ha Long Bay!

Ha Long Bay is home to a variety of seafood. Besides Asian restaurants, many Western ones are also served here.

Seafood noodle soup

Cruise boat, seaplane.

It is a humbling experience to jump on a 25-minute flight and appreciate the whole beauty of Ha Long Bay with the fare of around USD 130.

How to get to Ha Long Bay

There are many ways to get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi, including bus, train or seaplane. The most popular and convenient way is the shuttle bus service, which departs Hanoi daily at around 8.am. It takes 2.5 – 3 hours for a Hanoi – Ha Long trip traveling by bus.

Best places to go near Ha Long Bay

2. ho chi minh – the most bustling city.

It’s hard to imagine the sprawling, modern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City once started out as a small fishing village surrounded by thick forests. Located in  southern Vietnam , the economic center and bustling Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in regards to the population. Fondly referred to by its evocative older name of  Saigon , Ho Chi Minh City retains a preserved air of its French colonial heritage in the old areas of the city while still reflecting the dynamic modern vibes of a cutting edge Vietnam. Key attractions such as the  Notre-Dame Cathedral ,  Saigon Opera House ,  Central Post Office , and  Ben Thanh Market  reflect this colonial heritage, while the  War Remnants Museum ,  Reunification Palace , and preserved  Cu Chi Tunnels  north of the city lay testament to the fighting spirit and recent history of the ravages of war.

2 to 3 days in Ho Chi Minh city is suitable for almost travelers. You’ll have enough time to experience the fantastic street food, great nightlife. With one week, you are able to take things at a slower pace and uncover the city’s hidden charm.

From December to April is the best time to visit this bustling city. Unlike its usual vibrancy, Ho Chi Minh City is more peaceful on Tet Holiday and Independence Day.

Ho Chi Minh City has a huge selection of hotels to choose from, ranging from Airbnb and hostels to chic guesthouses and top-notch branded hotels. The vast majority of hotels are concentrated in Districts 1 and 3. Overall, Ho Chi Minh City hotels are more expensive than other cities in Vietnam. Book early for your choice of the best accommodation.

Ho Chi Minh City is well-known for fabulous street food such as Pha lau, Hu Tieu (pork and seafood noodle soup), Bo Bia (jicama and carrots spring rolls), Banh Mi, Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crispy crepe). In addition, it has a strong coffee culture and huge number of international restaurants.

Bus, private car, taxi, motorcycle.

Due to the hot weather and traffic jams, motorcycle is not the ideal option for tourists although it is much more flexible and inexpensive.

How to get to Ho Chi Minh

Air Tan Son Nhat airport is the busiest airport in Vietnam. The airport has international flights connecting Ho Chi Minh and 76 destinations in 25 countries. There are also a number of domestic flights from Hanoi, Da Nang, Hue, Phu Quoc, Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh.

Train Saigon station is one of the stops in North-South line which run through the length of Vietnam, passing by most of Vietnam’s major destination.

Bus Ho Chi Minh has two large bus station and many tourist bus lines, providing departures to many places through Vietnam.

Best places to go near Ho Chi Minh City

1. hanoi – a quaint capital.

Hanoi became the capital of Vietnam in 1010 under King Ly Thai To, named Thang Long (Ascending Dragon). In 1831, Thang Long was renamed Hanoi, which translates rather poetically to “the city inside the river”

You will feel a magical vibration while wandering around this thousand year city, with all your senses, it’s hard to explain why. Amble down the labyrinth-like alleys of the Old Quarter , and see the hidden pagodas and temples waiting to be explored. Feel the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese when visiting historical sites such as Thăng Long Imperial Citadel , the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , Hoa Lo Prison , One Pillar Pagoda , and Hoan Kiem Lake . Whether it’s the rich culture and heritage shown in the romantic French-influenced colonial architecture or the tantalizing smells of Pho and other tasty street foods wafting through the air, the charm and atmosphere are palpable.

Hanoi is one of the most interesting places in Vietnam. Some fall in love with the city, and a week here is not enough for them. If you like wandering non-touristy area of Hanoi, get sync with the local life here, you should spend at least 4 to 5 days. If you stay in Hanoi just as a transit to visit other nearby destination (Ninh Binh, Sapa ect.), do a full-day city tour. Many will say it’s too short, but still, it allows you to visit most typical attractions of this 1000-year-old capital city.

You can visit the pulsing Hanoi at any time of the year. On Tet Holiday and Independence Day, Hanoi stands out with its peaceful atmosphere.

Accommodation in Hanoi is centered around Hoan Kiem Lake in the popular Old Quarter. Small family-run styled hotels cost between 5 – 20 USD per night while a luxury stay at Sofitel Metropole will run above 200 USD per night. Guests looking for a quiet respite away from the hustle and bustle of Hoan Kiem District can head north of the city center to the quieter areas of Ba Dinh and Tay Ho District, where hotels like Pan Pacific and Intercontinental can be found with the per night average a little over 100 USD. Trendy airbnbs ranging between 10 – 15 USD are also on the rise, with independent travellers looking for more personal experiences.

A foodie paradise, Hanoi is chockfull of amazing culinary treasures, from small noodle shops and street food delicacies to trendy expat start-ups and fancy restaurants.

Some local dishes that you should try in Hanoi: Pho bo (beef noodles), Pho ga (chicken noodles), Bun Cha (Grilled Pork & Rice Noodles), Cha ca La Vong (La Vong grilled fish), Banh cuon (Steamed rice rolls), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Cafe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee), Nem ran (Fried spring roll), Bo cuon la lot (Grilled beef in piper lolot leaves).

Ca phe phin

Private car, taxi, motorcycle, bus

The traffic in Hanoi is often unfathomable, with motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, taxis, cars, and 4 x 4s all clamboring for space, especially during commuting hours from 7:30 – 8:30 and 17:00 – 18:30. The ever-popular grab application is seen everywhere with motorbike taxi’s wearing their green uniforms, offering rides at a much cheaper, fixed rate than bargaining on the street with local “xe om”. Xe om’s can be arranged on the street corner for around 0.43 USD a km while taxis cost around 0.50 USD per km. Buses, often now with wi-fi connectivity, cost 0.30 USD and less per ride.

How to get to Hanoi

Air Located 35 km outside of the city centre, Noi Bai international airport is the largest airport in northern Vietnam. There are 51 airlines operating with international flights to more than 20 destinations. You can easily find a direct flight to Hanoi from many places all over the world.

Train From Hanoi train station, you can catch the train to the South (Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh) and to Sapa (in the north)

Bus With four bus stations, you can find buses to Hanoi from any provinces throughout Vietnam.

Best places to go near Hanoi

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Places To Visit in Vietnam

Here are the top 47 tourist places in vietnam.

1 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 83 Tourist attractions

Perched on the banks of the Red River in Northern Vietnam, Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and one of the world's most ancient cities. Boasting well-preserved colonial buildings, golden pagodas, unique museums, mouthwatering cuisine, entertainment destinations, and traditional bazaars, Hanoi is a melting...

Best Time: October to April

2. Ho Chi Minh City

2 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 84 Tourist attractions

Popularly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam is the largest city and the financial and cultural capital of the country. Ho Chi Minh City is a fast-paced city deeply rooted in its cultural roots whilst quickly having adapted to the demands of urbanisation. Here you will find o...

Best Time: November to April

3. Halong Bay

3 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 51 Tourist attractions

Characterised by towering karst limestone pillars and small islets of various shapes and sizes amidst crystal blue waters, Halong Bay's ethereal beauty is a sight to behold. Located in northern Vietnam, it is the most popular tourist spot this side of the country. Halong Bay, where 'Halong' translat...

Best Time: April to September

4 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 37 Tourist attractions

One of the oldest cities in Asia, Hoi An is a town in central Vietnam which was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999. Located south of Danang, Hoi An translates to 'a peaceful meeting place'. It is culturally and historically one of Vietnam's most important towns and also one of the r...

Best Time: February to July

Vietnam Travel Packages

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5 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 48 Tourist attractions

Da Nang sits prettily on the east coast of Vietnam, right between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Popularly known as the tourist capital of South-Central Vietnam, Da Nang is truly stunning - filled with beaches, museums, evolving nightlife and world-class infrastructure. On the South China Sea coast, wi...

Best Time: February to May

6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

6 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Phong Nha ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its many cave systems, old karst mountains, thick green forests and scintillating underground rivers. There are many spectacular caves in the region, including the most extensive cave network on earth. Spread across 10,000 hec...

Best Time: February to August

7. Nha Trang

7 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 41 Tourist attractions

Home to some of the most beautiful bays in the world, Nha Trang on the coast of Southern Central Vietnam, is a popular beach resort city. While the fine powdery white crescent beach is a highlight of the shoreline, regular makeovers have produced parks, sculpture gardens, bright promenades and beach...

Best Time: February to April

8 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 34 Tourist attractions

Hue, the former royal capital of the Nguyen empire in central Vietnam, is one of the oldest cities in the country. Set on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue is a primarily a historical city which famously houses the Imperial City (declared a World Heritage Site in 1993) within the Citadel, which ac...

Best Time: January to April

9 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 28 Tourist attractions

Situated atop the Hoang Lien Son Mountains, Sapa is a colonial-era town in northwest Vietnam overlooking the terraced rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley. At an elevation of 1,500 metres, this small market town shares its border with China and offers some of Vietnam's best trekking. Arguably offering th...

Best Time: March to May

10. Phu Quoc

10 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 28 Tourist attractions

Phu Quoc is the biggest island in Vietnam, boasting the most beautiful white sand beaches, surrounded by palm and coconut trees. It's the largest island in Vietnam and is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. Located just 45 kilometers from...

Best Time: November to March

11. Mekong Delta

11 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

The Mekong Delta in south-east Vietnam is one of the world’s greatest river regions. The Mekong River is the twelfth longest river in the world and the seventh longest river in Asia. The delta is a hive of activity and serves as an important transport and agricultural hub. Known as the ‘rice bowl of...

Best Time: November to May

12. Ninh Binh

12 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 9 Tourist attractions

Rich in natural landscapes and a myriad of historical destinations, the city of Ninh Binh and its surrounding regions is a nature lover's dream destination. Capital of its namesake province, it is one of the oldest regions of Vietnam and is regarded as the sister destination of Halong Bay....

Best Time: Throughout the year

13 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 29 Tourist attractions

Da Lat is a refreshing hill station located in the southwestern highlands of Vietnam and is about 6 hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. It is the capital of Lam Dong Province, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' for its distinctive temperate climate. A far cry from the tropical heat of the...

Best Time: December to March

14. Ba Be National Park

14 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 5 Tourist attractions

Located at a distance of 240 kilometres from the city of Hanoi, Ba Be National Park is a stunning national reserve blessed with rolling hills, tall limestone karsts and over 550 plant varieties. It is also populated by 353 types of butterflies, 65 types of mammals and the rare Vietnamese Salamander.

15 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 14 Tourist attractions

The picturesque beach resort town of Mui Ne is located at a four-hour train ride away from the city of Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). Once a sleepy fishing beach village, the town is now dotted with swanky beach resorts, posh cafes and restaurants, attracting a large number of seaside-loving tourists and loc...

16. Bai Tu Long Bay

16 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Bai Tu Long Bay in Northeastern Vietnam is an extension of Ha Long Bay - A UNESCO World Heritage site -  located at a mere 30 km from it. However, this small distance creates a vast difference in the experience that you can have here! The same limestone karsts, teal blue waters and languid crui...

17. Bach Ma National Park

17 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Bach Ma National park is a verdant paradise, located about an hour-and-a-half drive away from the city of Hue. Home to a varied range of flora and fauna with about 358 bird species, it is also proclaimed to be one of the wettest areas in Vietnam. One of the most popular spots on the touris...

Best Time: June-August

18. Con Dao Islands

18 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

A picturesque archipelago of 16 Islands, Con Dao lies off the southern coast of Vietnam. Out of the 16, Con Son is the largest and the only inhabited island. However, even the uninhabited islands are rich with stunning beaches. Emerging out of its past as prison islands for prisoners of war, the de...

Best Time: November to February

19. Vung Tau

19 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 13 Tourist attractions

Vung Tau translates into 'The bay of boats'. Sitting on a hilly strip of land that juts into the Ocean, Vung tau is one of the best beach towns located around 100 Km from Ho Chi Minh City. It primarily serves as a weekend getaway from Saigon and other cities in the nearby region. The two main beache...

20. Dong Hoi

20 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

A pleasant seaside city, with easy access to the Phong Nha Ke Bang caves, Dong Hoi is a rapidly rising tourist destination. Apart from its proximity to the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Dong Hoi has its own tourist attractions, authentic cuisine and unique history that beckon people to explore an...

21. Dien Bien Phu

21 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

Formerly known as Thaeng, Dien Bien Phu is the capital of Dien Bien Province in the northwestern region of Vietnam. It is among the most historically eminent cities in Vietnam. It is here that the French were finally defeated in the year 1954 by the Viet Minh Communist Revolutionaries.Initially, jus...

Best Time: April to June, September to November

22 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Son La is a picturesque Vietnamese town hidden amidst towering mountains. The town has a dark past as it played house to one of the most brutal prisons in the world. Today, all that remains is the ruins and a tiny town with ghosts of its past deceptively hidden behind its natural rivers, trees and f...

23. Cat Tien National Park

23 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Cat Tien National Park is located in the Southern region of Vietnam, approximately 155 kilometres away from Ho Chi Minh City. This forest reserve covers around 720 sq.km. of the few surviving tropical low-lying woodlands of Vietnam. The national park is home to exquisite flora and fauna such as the ...

Best Time: December to May

24 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 3 Tourist attractions

Bac Ha is a village located in the Northwest of Vietnam and is a sleepy little town, the economy of which is centred around its Saturday and Sunday markets. The exchange, the colours, the local wares and an ever-bustling affair, these markets are usually visited on a day trip from the neighbouring S...

Best Time: December to April

25. Phan Thiet

25 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 2 Tourist attractions

Playing house to an amalgamation of heated sand dunes, lush mountains filled with greenery, golden beaches with blue water and gurgling streams, Phan Thiet is the perfect escape into the beauty of Mother Nature.

Best Time: September to December

26. Lai Chau

26 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the midst of sloping mountains and plateaus, Lai Chau is a quaint town with monumental government buildings. This town offers you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the mystic scenery of the Vietnamese countryside. In addition to that, you can learn about the locals, go trekking, backp...

27. Hoa Binh

27 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 5 Tourist attractions

Hoa Binh is the Capital City of the Hoa Binh province of Vietnam. Located but a short distance from Hanoi, this hidden gem offers spectacular natural beauty, coupled with a rich culture. The natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture have made Hoa Binh a tourist attraction.

Best Time: October to January

28. Lao Cai

28 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 7 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the midst of mountains and valleys, Lao Cai, an obscure yet well developed Vietnamese region offers you something out of the ordinary - rich Vietnamese culture sans the sultry tropical heat. Lao Cai offers you a picturesque scenery, adventure and a peek into the rich culture and history o...

Best Time: September to October

29. Haiphong

29 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 19 Tourist attractions

Haiphong is Vietnam's third largest city and a major port. Haiphong is an industrial city and you can feel it in the air as soon as you enter. However, Haiphong also offers you with hidden relaxation, tucked and hidden away in the industrial town. It has a number of beaches and markets in addition t...

30 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 3 Tourist attractions

Ca Mau is Vietnam's southernmost town and the only city in the Ca Mau province. Braced against the Bac Lieu Canal, Ca Mau is a town that is still trying to decide its identity. While on one hand, it is a trade hub and a bustling metro, on the other, it is a quiet town with a bird sanctuary!The silky...

Best Time: June to October

31. Mong Cai

31 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

Nestling on the very edge of Vietnam, Mong Cai is a small town located on the Vietnam-China border. It is filled with picturesque untouched beaches and a rich history of the Vietnam - China conflict. The town has booming trade owing to its proximity to the border. Mong Cai is also full of untou...

Best Time: April to July

32. Vinh Long

32 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Vinh Long has a vibe - a relaxed one. As soon as you step foot in this nondescript town in the Mekong Delta, you will physically feel your worries melt away as though you are stuck in a time lapse. The beautiful scenery coupled with the friendly locals, thatched huts, narrow lanes and fruit-laden or...

Best Time: January to March

33. Tuy Hoa

33 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 7 Tourist attractions

Flanked by the highway, the ocean and the Da Rang River, Tuy Hoa is a sleepy and nondescript city that does not see many tourists. This quiet Vietnamese city is the perfect place to relax, catch some waves or intent with friendly locals who are more than welcoming of tourists. The miles and miles of...

34. Mai Chau

34 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

The perfect location to cut yourself off from the world, Mai Chau is a quaint sleepy town that is not very well known and subsequently does not have as many tourists. If you want to drop off from the earth and land in a richly cultural land, in the midst of nature, then Mai Chau is the place for you...

35 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

A hidden gem in the Mekong Delta, the small sleepy town of Sa Dec belongs to the Dong Thap Province. The town has a sense of calmness in the air and does not draw too many tourists. Although a bit of a silent town, it can keep a tourist busy with places such as the old busy market by the river, old ...

Best Time: July to October

36. Quy Nhon

36 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Quy Nhon is characterised by diverse topography ranging from hills, mountains, peninsulas, lakes, beaches and much more. This small corner of Vietnam is an undiscovered gem for most tourists eliminating your worries about crowded and noisy beaches. 

37. Bien Hoa

37 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Bien Hoa is a busy town on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City in South Vietnam. Close to the cultural heart of Vietnam, Bien Hoa is connected to it by Vietnamese Highway 1. At present, it fosters eco-tourism through its national parks and reserves. It is a huge industrial area that is expanding expon...

38. Cao Lanh

38 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

The refreshing town of Cao Lanh is the capital city of Dong Thap Province of Vietnam located on the southeastern coast of the country along the Mekong Delta. The newly flourishing city has a pretty good trade scene, especially in rice. The city does not give off a touristy vibe for the simple reason...

Best Time: October to December

39. Hai Van Pass

39 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Hai Van Pass, between Da Nang and Hue, is said to be one of the most scenic and beautiful roads in the world. The road is flanked by the South China Sea on one side and the Annamite mountain ranges on the other. The pass stretches for 19 km and serves as a link between the north and south of Vietnam...

40 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Also known as the war city, Pleiku is the capital of Gia Lai province in Vietnam. The city has become the hub for tourists in Vietnam. This central highland offers a range of places to see, visit and eat. Famous for its cuisine and military campaign in 1965, Pleiku should especially be visited durin...

41. Tay Ninh

41 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Tay Ninh, the capital city of Tay Ninh province, is the site for the famous Cu Chi Tunnels built during the Vietnam War for military siege. It shares its borders with Cambodia and is only 90 kms from the largest city of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. The city’s crucial location gives it an economic advantage...

42. Kon Tum

42 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Due to the lack of a mainstream touristy vibe, the destination offers a calm off-centre experience to travelers and dwells them into the authentic Vietnamese culture. The city holds significance in the Vietnam War history and has many war sites open for visits by tourists and the locals. The surroun...

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12 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

• February 28, 2023
• Last updated on December 5, 2023
• Vietnam Travel Blogs

Vietnam possesses numerous captivating and diverse destinations, ranging from beaches to plains and mountains. Each place has its own unique beauty and characteristics, so you’ll need to explore all of these places to truly understand Vietnam’s culture, history, and landscapes. In this article, we will introduce the 12 best places to visit in Vietnam , these must-see destinations are primarily chosen by international travelers in their itineraries in Vietnam.

To discover the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, please visit: Top 15 Most Beautiful Beaches in Vietnam

Table of Contents

1. Hanoi Capital

Hanoi is the cultural, historical and political center of Vietnam. It boasts numerous attractive tourist destinations such as the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and The Huc Bridge – these are iconic landmarks of Hanoi that should not be missed. Additionally, you can learn about the culture and history of Vietnam by visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Hoa Lo Prison, and the Museum of Ethnology.

One of the cultural shows that tourists often experience and is unique to Hanoi is the Water Puppetry at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. This is a distinctive and longstanding form of Vietnamese art that is still being preserved. The theater is quite close to the Old Quarter, so you can walk there to purchase tickets for the show.

Hanoi’s cuisine is also something you should experience. Some of the world-famous dishes here include Beef noodle soup, Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), and Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich)…

To learn more about Hanoi, see Hanoi, Vietnam: 18 Places to Visit & Things to Know

Sapa is a small town in Lao Cai province, Vietnam, situated at an altitude of 1700 meters above sea level. It has a cool and refreshing climate and offers many captivating landscapes to explore.

If you’re passionate about mountain climbing, you can attempt to conquer the summit of Fansipan, which stands at 3,143 meters in Sapa. If you want to enjoy panoramic views of Sapa town, the Muong Hoa Valley, and the hidden Tả Phìn village amidst the mist, you can hike up Ham Rong Mountain, which is quite close to the center of Sapa.

Additionally, one of the activities that tourists often engage in when visiting Sapa is exploring the villages inhabited by various ethnic minority groups. Sapa is home to 6 ethnic minority groups, each with its own unique culture and festivals for you to discover.

To learn more about Sapa, see Sapa, Vietnam: 9 Places to Visit & Things to Know

3. Halong bay

Halong Bay is located approximately 150km from Hanoi, and it takes about 2 hours to reach there by car on the highway. Halong Bay is considered one of the 29 most beautiful bays in the world, featuring 1,969 islands, primarily limestone formations. It is also regarded as one of the most stunning natural attractions in Vietnam. The magnificent natural landscape of Halong Bay is created by three elements: limestone mountains, the sea, and the sky. This is a unique gift of nature to Halong Bay that can’t be found anywhere else. Therefore, exploring Halong Bay is always a top priority for international tourists visiting Vietnam.

To experience sightseeing in Halong Bay, it’s best to book overnight accommodation on cruise ships here. With a 2-day, 1-night tour package, you will be taken to visit the main attractions of Halong Bay, participate in activities like swimming and kayaking, and more.

To learn more about Halong bay, see Halong Bay, Vietnam: Places to Visit & Things to Know

Hue, the ancient capital, is one of the cities that bears a significant historical imprint of Vietnam from the 19th century Nguyen dynasty. Some of the main attractions in Hue include the Imperial City of Hue, the Khai Dinh Tomb, the Perfume River, and more.

In addition to the historical sites, the city of Hue also boasts beautiful beaches like Lang Co Beach. This is an ideal place for those who love swimming, with its gently sloping coastline, white sand, clear waters, and an average temperature of around 25-30 degrees Celsius.

With its picturesque natural scenery and stunning coastline, Lang Co possesses most of what nature has to offer. It is the third bay in Vietnam, following Halong Bay and Nha Trang, to be named among the 30 most beautiful bays in the world. Here are the top 7 tourist destinations in Hue that you shouldn’t miss.

To learn more about Hue, see Hue city, Vietnam: Top 11 Places to Visit

Da Nang is a major city in Central Vietnam, strategically located with beautiful beaches, an international airport, and is a preferred tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers every year. One significant advantage of Da Nang is its friendly people, clean environment, diverse cuisine, and well-developed infrastructure, making it a popular choice for hosting large international events and festivals in Vietnam.

Da Nang’s tourist attractions are also very diverse, including My Khe Beach – one of the most charming beaches in the world, Dragon Bridge, Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hills, and more. Particularly, Ba Na Hills Mountain Resort has received significant investment for tourism development, offering world-class entertainment and recreational activities.

To learn more about Da Nang, see Da Nang, Vietnam: 14 Places to Visit & Things to Know

Hoi An, characterized by its ancient town with old wooden houses, colorful lanterns, and slow-drifting wooden boats on the Hoai River, holds a special allure for international tourists. Over the years, Hoi An has received millions of accolades from famous world travel news outlets and blogs, which are well-deserved recognition for this beautiful town.

Hoi An’s cuisine is also highly praised, with traditional dishes such as Hoi An-style baguette, Cao Lau, Quang noodles often being savored by tourists when they visit.

To learn more about Hoi An, see Hoi An, Vietnam: 15 Places to Visit & Things to Know

7. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is the beautiful coastal city of Vietnam, known as the “Pearl of the Far East.” Nha Trang boasts stunning natural landscapes with long white sandy beaches and offshore islands with incredible coral ecosystems. Nha Trang has been voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

To learn more about Nha Trang, see Nha Trang, Vietnam: 14 Places to Visit & Things to Know

8. Ho Chi Minh city

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is the most economically developed hub in Vietnam. The first impression for international tourists when visiting Ho Chi Minh City is its vibrancy, dynamism, and modernity. The city features luxurious buildings in the central area, bustling markets, restaurants, bars, and entertainment districts that stay open until the early hours.

Initially, many travelers may find the traffic “chaotic” in the busiest areas. However, if you have the opportunity to explore the small streets on a motorbike, you will notice that things are quite different from your initial perception. Most vehicles move at a slow pace, and conflicts on the road are rare.

Ho Chi Minh City also offers a diverse range of tourist attractions . With an array of 11 museums, primarily focusing on historical themes, it has the largest number of museums in Vietnam. The largest and oldest museum in the city is the Vietnam History Museum with 30,000 artifacts. While most foreign visitors head to the War Remnants Museum, the Ho Chi Minh Museum attracts the most domestic tourists. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can also spend a day visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, a wartime relic with an extensive tunnel system.

To learn more about Ho Chi Minh city, see Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam: Top 20 Places to Visit

9. Can Tho, Ben Tre, Vinh Long

These are cities in Southern Vietnam located in the Mekong Delta region. This area is characterized by a dense network of canals and rivers. The most exciting experiences in this region are the floating markets early in the morning, visits to fruit orchards and farms where various fruits and agricultural products are grown, and the opportunity to explore the life and culture of the local people.

To learn more about Can Tho, see Can Tho, Vietnam: 13 Places to Visit & Things to Know

10. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is an island located in the southern part of Vietnam with a total area of about 589.23 square kilometers. It is considered a major tourist hub in Vietnam. In recent years, Phu Quoc has seen strong tourism infrastructure development with significant investments from the government and multinational corporations.

Key tourism activities in Phu Quoc include beach resorts, exploring pristine forests, and various water sports activities.

To learn more about Phu Quoc, see Phu Quoc, Vietnam: Places to Visit & Things to Know

11. Quang Binh

Quang Binh is a province in North Central Vietnam, renowned not only for its beautiful beaches but also for having the most magnificent and mysterious cave systems in Vietnam. One of the world-famous cave systems recently discovered is Son Doong Cave.

Additionally, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site, is an incredibly attractive destination with over 400 caves, totaling 220 kilometers in length.

To learn more about Quang Binh, see Quang Binh, Vietnam: 9 Places to Visit & Things to Know

12. Quy Nhon and Mui Ne

While these two destinations belong to different provinces and are quite far apart, we group them together because of their similarities. They both have beautiful beaches and have received significant investments from international corporations, positioning them as excellent seaside vacation spots.

To learn more about Quy Nhon, see Quy Nhon, Vietnam: 8 Places to Visit & Things to Know

To learn more about Mui Ne, see Mui Ne Beach, Vietnam: Top 11 Things To Do

With these 12 best destinations in Vietnam that we have just introduced, you will certainly not miss any of Vietnam’s outstanding highlights on your trip. We wish you an exciting journey to Vietnam. If you need to book a Vietnam tour package , do not hesitate to contact us for the best offers.

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10 Best Ecotourism Destinations in Vietnam in 2024

• Updated: March 28, 2024 Bich Ngoc in Beautiful Vietnam , Best of Vietnam 0 comment.

• Ideal places to go camping in Vietnam
• Environmentally Conscious Travel in Vietnam
• 5 Most Famous National Parks of Vietnam

1. Tam Dao National Park

A bend in Tam Dao National Park

Located in Vinh Phuc, Tam Dao National Park is about 80 kilometers away from Hanoi. Due to its beautiful climate, you can visit Tam Dao anytime a year. The best time to visit Tam Dao is summer when it is pleasantly sunny with light breeze.

As a northern fringe of Red River Delta, this eco park is the combination of tropical rainforest and temperate forests of southern China. It is endowed with abundant flora systems with eight types of forest and over 2000 plant species. For your eco holiday, you can enjoy fresh air, explore natural resources and go trekking through stunning sceneries.

Best time to visit Tam Dao National Park?

The best time to visit Tam Dao is from April to November. During this time, it is not chilly and you can see romantic mist-covered hills and mountains.

2. Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park

As a part of the beautiful Cat Ba Island , Cat Ba National Park is a tropical forest with a total area of about 15.200 hectares.  It protects the most abundant marine biosphere, terrestrial forest and mangrove ecosystem in Vietnam. One of the most remarkable endangered animals in this park is Vooc (white-faced monkey). This creature is recorded as “The World’s 25 Most Endanger Primate Species” and only found in Cat Ba Island.

Kayaking on Lan Ha Bay

There are various activities you can experience for your eco holiday here. You can go trekking, rock climbing to Kim Giao Forest, Ngu Lam Peak, Frog Pond, Trung Trang Cave, Bat Cave, etc. Heart-pumping water sports such as kayaking, scuba diving to see coral reefs, windsurfing, etc. are predominant activities for foreigners when visiting this place.

Best time to visit Cat Ba National Park?

The ideal times to visit Cat Ba are October and November because this island is crowded with domestic travelers during summer time.

3. Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park

140 kilometers to the south of Hanoi, Cuc Phuong National Park is the oldest nature reserve in Vietnam. Covering an area of 22,00 hectares of rainforest, this place is one of the most attractive ecotourism destinations when you travel to Northern Vietnam. Thanks to its botany diversity and long history, Cuc Phuong attracts not only tourists but also archaeologists who are long for exploring primitive life in Nguoi Xua Cave (Pre-historic Man Cave).

The most notable scenery in Cuc Phuong is thousands of vibrant butterflies flying in ‘butterfly season’ from April until the end of May. You will admire a colorful realm of 280 butterfly species gathering in the park. Also, you can see butterflies landing everywhere, on the road, your cars and your helmets.

Best time to visit Cuc Phuong National Park?

You should visit Cuc Phuong during dry seasons (from October to April) because the roads will be less slippery and you can see many flowers blooming and butterflies gathering here.

4. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park

Son River to Phong Nha Cave, Phong Nha – Ke Bang Park

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003, Phong Nha – Ke Bang is located in  Bo Trach and Minh Hoa districts of Quang Binh Province. This natural park protects a 400-million-year-old limestone karst ecosystem. With the system of 300 caves and grottoes, Phong Nha is indeed a heaven for adventurous tourism. Some famous caves include Phong Nha Cave, Dark Cave, Tien Son Cave, Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) and Son Doong Cave.

Son Doong Cave , the most dangerous cave in Vietnam and the longest cave in the world

It is one of the most stunning places in Vietnam which contains everything you need for a trekking and climbing experience: mountains, caves, underground rivers, lakes, jungles and ecosystem. You can hire a boat to visit Phong Nha and Tien Son Cave. However, for eco-friendly and sustainable purposes, only groups of limited people with a tour guide have allowance to visit Son Doong.

Best time to visit Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park?

There are two distinct seasons in Phong Nha: wet season (from September to March) and dry season (from April to August). It is more convenient to visit Phong Nha during dry season. However, June – August is the hottest period in this place, so it is ideal to plan your trip to Phong Nha in April or May.

5. Bach Ma National Park

Five Lake Waterfall – Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park is approximately 32 kilometers to the south of Hue and 65 kilometers to the north of Da Nang. It is an old French Hill station with the altitude of 18 kilometers from the coast and total area of 40,000 hectares. Due to its semi-tropical rainforest and pleasant climate, Bach Ma National Park is one of the most appealing ecotourism destinations for both domestic and international travellers.

It is home to 132 mammal species and 1400 plant species including rare ferns and orchids. A forest on the exclusive mountain is the main reason which makes Bach Ma National Park an irresistible natural attraction. When visitors reach the top of Vong Hai Dai (sea watchtower), they will enjoy the breath-taking scenery of Lang Co Beach as well as waterfalls, rivers and mountains.

Best time to visit Bach Ma National Park?

February to April is the best time to visit Bach Ma National Park. It is hotter from June to August, but the rainforest here will cool you down from the heat of Hue.

6. Yok Don National Park

• Yok Don National Park

This is the largest Vietnam’s natural reserve with the total area of 115,000 hectares, characterized as a dry deciduous forest. This park stretches from Dak Lak and Dak Nong provinces to Vietnam – Cambodia border. There are 46 mammal species here including endangered ones such as Indochinese tiger, Indochinese leopard, Indian elephant and gaur. Visitors can find common animals such as monkeys, deer, and snakes in this park.

The most exciting activity to do in Yok Don is go trekking at the beginning of dry season (from October to December). There are many types of ecotourism activities available in Yok Don. You can go fishing, camping and make a bonfire on the sides of Serepok River. For ecotourism experience, not only will visitors take part in our door activities but they also have a chance to interact with M’nong, Ede and Lao ethnic people.

Best time to visit Yok Don National Park?

Dry season from October to April is ideal for trekking here. It is advisable to visit Yok Don National Park at the beginning of dry season from October to December when the weather is the most pleasant.

7. Cat Tien National Park

Cat Tien National Park belongs to the Southern region of Vietnam, 150 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City. With the area of 72.000 hectares, Cat Tien is a unique lowland tropical rainforest consisting 100 mammal species, 350 bird species, 100 reptile species with more than 1600 fauna species. For a longer walk, visitors can check out Crocodile Lake, Ecological Trail, Ta Lai and Nui Tuong Hill in dry season. It is the place where you can avoid over-crowded tourist trap.

Notably, there are 450 butterfly species in this forest, which constitutes 50% of butterflies in Vietnam. Make sure you visit this forest from December to May. You will have a chance to immerse into the romantic beauty of Mekong Delta during floating season. This is such a scene filled with butterfly wings and flowers blowing in the wind on your trip to Vietnam !

Best time to visit Cat Tien National Park?

The recommended time to visit Cat Tien National Park is from October to May. Avoid the summer when the hot weather will make you tired easily.

8. Tram Chim National Park

As a gem of Dong Thap Muoi region, Tram Chim National Park (previously called the Tam Nong Bird Sanctuary) is a wetland ecosystem which features a wide range of fauna and flora. Its total eco area is more than 7500 hectares, housing 231 species of water bird which constitutes 25% of the bird population in Vietnam.

The bird and lotus at Tram Chim National Park

Notably, Tram Chim is inhabited by the Red-crown Crane, one of the endangered bird species including in Vietnam’s Red List . Therefore, the Vietnamese government is seriously concerned about the ecological conservation of bird population in this park.

Best time to visit Tram Chim National Park?

The best time to visit this bird sanctuary is the dry season (December to June). It is recommended to take a birdwatching tour by boats in the sunrise or sunset. Photographers and travel lovers will be thrilled at this magnificent natural landscape and botany diversity.

9. Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Located in An Giang province, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest is one of the most attractive mangrove forests in Mekong Delta region. This forest contains a typical ecosystem of Hau River. It is a home to 140 fauna species, 11 mammal species, 25 reptile species and 70 bird species. Two of them are listed in Vietnam’s Red List.

This forest is not only praised for its attraction but also for its specialties, Linh fish (cyprinid). Hotpot of Linh fish and Dien Dien flower is a delicious and must-try cuisine of Mekong Delta region.

Best time to visit Tra Su Melaleuca Forest?

The flooding season, usually in October and November, is the best time to visit Tra Su. Visitors can take a motorboat ride tour through the forest and enjoy the unusual scenery where water is covered with greenery. Along the ways, there are water-fern, water lilies and a lot of birds perched on maleleuca’s trunks.

10. U Minh Thuong National Park

The lonely tower in U Minh Thuong National Park

Located in Kien Giang province, 360 kilometers south-west of Ho Chi Minh City, U Minh Thuong eco park (Upper U Minh) is a national park with the most abundant biodiversity in Mekong Delta Region. Its total area is 21.107 hectares, while the Core zone containing Melaleuca forest covers 8.038 hectares. The buffer zone where local people live covers 13.069 hectares.

During the Indochine War, Vietnamese government divided U Minh forest into two areas: U Minh Thuong (Upper U Minh) belongs to Kien Giang and U Minh Ha (Lower U Minh) belongs to Ca Mau; these two forests are at two sides of Trem River. One notable characteristic of U Minh Thuong is its unique position in the area of freshwater wetlands with peat swamp forest. There are 186 bird species, 32 mammal species, 60 fish species and 243 plant species living in this forest.

Best time to visit U Minh Thuong National Park?

The best time to travel U Minh Thuong National Park is from November to April. You can spend time visiting Phu Quoc and Nam Du archipelago as well.

Tips for eco-travel:

• Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints: Always protect the environment, don’t throw garbage on the roads, overuse water resources nor pick wild flowers.
• Pay attention to local community: Buy local food and souvenirs in the markets or street vendors.
• Don’t choose a luxury resort: Eco-friendly bungalows or homestays will bring you more authentic experiences than hotels.

Best Eco Tours in Vietnam

• Vietnam Nature Trails Adventure
• Nam Cat Tien National Park
• Trekking Cat Ba National Park and Lan Ha Bay Kayaking Tour

Start planning your tailor-made Vietnam tour by contacting one of our specialists…

• Bach Ma National Park
• Cat Ba national park
• eco holiday
• eco-friendly
• Phong Nha Ke Bang
• Tam Dao National Park
• Tram Chim National Park
• U Minh Thuong

As a true Vietnamese enthusiast of music, books and coffee, Bich Ngoc loves researching into those typical cultural characteristics of Vietnam as well as exploring further destinations in the country of thousand years of civilization.

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This Malaysian city is one of Asia’s most budget-friendly summer destinations in 2024

Summer is approaching swiftly, bringing along the excitement of planning a memorable vacation in 2024! Before you begin your selection process, delve into the budget-friendly destinations of Asia for summer 2024, where you can travel without exceeding your limit.

Agoda, the popular online travel agency, surveyed to determine the most budget-friendly destination in Asia for 2024 by comparing the average room rates across top destinations in the Asia-Pacific region. This exclusive list features Udon Thani from Thailand as the top-ranked destination, followed by Surabaya in Indonesia, Hue in Vietnam, and Kuching in Malaysia . These cities offer affordability and unique experiences within their respective countries, with Bangalore standing out as India’s most budget-friendly destination.

Discover the most budget-friendly summer destinations in Asia 2024

Udon thani, thailand.

Ranked first in Asia, Udon Thani offers affordability without compromising on cultural and natural richness. Explore archaeological wonders such as Kham Chanot, the Red Lotus Sea, and Phu Phra Bat Historical Park.

Surabaya, Indonesia

Located on Java island in Indonesia, Surabaya blends the traditional and the modern along the coast. Discover the myth of Sura and Baya as you navigate the bustling streets of the port city through its Javanese, Chinese, and Arab influences. Explore the nightlife, local cuisine and culture at Pasar Atum and Townsquare Surabaya.

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Former home of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue is steeped in history, making it a fascinating destination in Vietnam. Explore the UNSECO-enlisted Hue Citadel and the tombs of past emperors. Also famous for its cuisine, the Dong Ba Market is the centre for relishing world-class Vietnamese dishes like Banh Khoai and Banh Beo.

Kuching, Malaysia

The capital of Sarawak, Kuching offers breathtaking nature on Borneo island and showcases Malaysia’s diverse culture. Witness the lush greenery, stunning landscapes and pristine waters of Bako National Park, Kubah National Park, Kuching Waterfront and Semenggoh Wildlife Centre.

Iloilo, Philippines

Designated as UNESCO’s first “Creative City of Gastronomy” in the Philippines, Iloilo offers a blend of history, culture, delicious cuisine, and nature in one destination.

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Dubbed the “Silicon Valley of India”, Bangalore is also the most affordable destination in the country. You can witness India’s past, present, and future through its monuments, bustling streets, and innovative spaces like Bengaluru Palace, Cubbon Park, Commercial Street, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.

Narita, Japan

Beyond being a gateway to Tokyo, thanks to the Narita International Airport, Narita offers cultural gems like Naritasan Temple, Katori Shrine, Sawara Town and Boso no Mura, providing a glimpse into Japanese heritage.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan

The port city on the tip of Taiwan, Kaohsiung is a major trading centre and metropolis. Catch a glimpse of Taiwanese city life through Liouhe Tourist Night Market, Ruifeng Night Market, The Pier-2 Art Center, Kaohsiung Music Center and Great Harbor Bridge.

(Feature image credit: Sasha India/Unsplash)

Priyaja Bakshi

Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi!

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