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The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Here's when to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, lower prices, and excellent sightseeing.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit for good weather, best times to visit for lower prices, best times to visit for hiking in sa pa, best times to visit for cruising ha long bay, worst times to visit.

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Cinnamon and star anise perfume my memories of Vietnam, a country that lodged itself into my palate in fragrant, frenzied bursts. That alluring scent of pho was one of few constants as I traveled through vastly different landscapes, trekking through verdant rice terraces, dodging motorbikes en route to speakeasies, and standing face to face with an endangered monkey in my oceanfront outdoor shower — all within the span of two weeks. 

Vietnam is more than 1,000 miles long, a spectacularly slim country that’s only 30 miles wide at its narrowest point. Every region boasts its own allure as well as its own climate, which means you’ll need to carefully consider the time of your visit based on your desired itinerary. 

“As the climate varies so much from north to south, there will always be somewhere worth going in Vietnam, whatever time of year you travel,” says Melissa Matthews, regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah .

Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam:

• High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April 
• Shoulder Seasons: North: December to February, May to August; Central: September to March; South: September to December 
• Low Season: North: May to October; Central: September to May; South: May to September

Before you start planning your trip, read on to learn about the best times to visit Vietnam for hiking the majestic, mountainous rice terraces of Sa Pa, cruising the limestone marvels of Ha Long Bay, and avoiding the rainy monsoon season. 

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The high season in Vietnam varies according to the region, so you’ll always be able to find a place that feels more secluded from the bustle of crowded beaches or cruise ships. Wet season attracts fewer crowds, says Matthews, which falls from May to October in the north, September to May in the central part of the country, and May to September in the south. 

Visiting during this time has plenty of perks, as you’ll likely be able to save on accommodations and travel costs. Popular restaurants and tours will be less overrun with tourists, offering a rare opportunity to better immerse yourself in the local culture as you tuck into bun cha on a sidewalk stool. However, bursts of rain and cloudy weather can dampen any plans to hike in Sa Pa or cruise along Ha Long Bay — two quintessential experiences you won’t want to miss. 

There are also an abundance of places that remain less crowded throughout the year, says Benjamin Kreuz, general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay — the resort itself is one of them, nestled in a private cove of Nha Trang that became my personal definition of paradise. Many visitors tend to prioritize other attractions as they make their way south, so natural wonders in the north like Ban Gioc Waterfall and the network of caves in Quang Binh remain less busy. 

Meet the Expert

• Melissa Matthews is the regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah.
• Benjamin Kreuz is the general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

No matter when you visit, you’ll always find good weather somewhere in Vietnam. “Vietnam is a beautiful country with tropical weather, making it suitable for visits throughout the year,” says Kreuz. 

For those hoping to see Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and everything in between, it’s best to go in the dry season. “February and March are the best months to see the entire country from north to south in relatively dry weather,” says Matthews. She notes that Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls during this time and can last for up to 10 days. “During this time, most of the key sights in the cities are closed, as everyone goes back to their family villages to celebrate,” she says. She recommends heading to the beach during the festival and bookending your trip with time in the major cities. 

For a dry and temperate trip to Sa Pa or Hanoi in the north, head there from September to November, or in March and April, she suggests. A sunny beach visit to Hoi An or Nha Trang in the central region is best from April to August, while the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island in the south are warmest from October to April. 

Vietnam is a relatively affordable destination all year long, with abundant and economical street food and comfortable hotels for all budgets. For your best chance at scoring low-cost flights and accommodations, consider traveling outside the peak tourist season. April, May, October, and November are excellent times, as you’ll still find warm weather throughout the country, but will have fewer tourists to contend with. 

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A visit to the verdant, terraced rice fields of Sa Pa are a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley, the hills are surrounded by spectacular mountains and home to dozens of communities, including the Hmong and Red Dao peoples — many of whom open their homes for overnight stays and lead private or group trekking tours. You can reach this famed hiking destination by car from Hanoi in five hours, by a bus in six to eight hours, or on an overnight sleeper train. 

Matthews notes that this region tends to get colder from December to February, so it’s best to plan a trip from September to November or in March and April. Harvest season is also an unforgettable time to visit: In late August through September, the vibrant green hillsides turn a voluptuous shade of gold as the rice ripens. 

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Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone towers, is one of the primary tourist destinations in Vietnam, and as such, has become increasingly overrun with cruise operators leading day tours. For a less crowded experience, consider booking an overnight cruise that will take you deeper into the bay — or to the equally beautiful, slightly less populated neighboring Lan Ha Bay. (I splurged for a two-night cruise with Orchid Cruises , one of the more luxurious tour operators). 

March, April, October, and November are ideal months to visit, as they tend to bring warm and sunny weather without as much humidity. You’ll also avoid the peak season, so while it’s still bound to be busy, you can enjoy kayaking through the tranquil waters and hiking Cat Ba island in relative peace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a great opportunity for a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure. 

Nick Dolding/Getty Images

While Vietnam’s varied climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, you may want to avoid traveling to the country during monsoon season. 

“When the monsoon hits, it is hard and heavy and very humid,” says Matthews, who suggests sightseeing in cities during the wet season, where you can still visit museums and historic temples between rainstorms. “Avoid the mountainous region of Sa Pa and definitely don’t book a cruise in Ha Long Bay, as storms will occur and boats are grounded,” she warns. 

If you do decide to travel during the rainy season, it’s best to remain flexible in your planning, says Kreuz. “Consider not booking everything in advance due to unpredictable weather,” he says, adding that staying open-minded may help you to take advantage of potential low-season discounts. 

Tet, which marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is another tricky time to visit, as many landmarks and businesses close for a week or more to celebrate. It typically lands in late January or early February — this year, it falls on Feb. 10. 

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.

More on Vietnam

23 Best Cities To Visit In Vietnam And Make The Most Out Of Your Trip

Vietnam is an underrated destination capable of captivating all of your senses with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and intriguing history. From the bustling cities that hum with energy to the tranquil countryside that whispers tales of a bygone era, every corner of Vietnam paints a different picture. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, adventurer, or peace-seeker, Vietnam offers a myriad of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. The goal of this guide is to help you discover the best cities to visit in Vietnam based on your preference and expectations and that’s exactly what we’ll do.

But before we get to our top 23 favorite destinations in Vietnam, let’s cover some basics…

Helpful Resources For Finding The Best Cities To Visit In Vietnam

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Now that we covered some basics, let’s get to the most important part of this article- the best cities to visit in Vietnam.

Hanoi: The Heart Of Vietnam

Situated in the northern part of Vietnam, Hanoi serves as the beating heart of the country, seamlessly intertwining a rich history with a dynamic modernity. One of the main attractions is the Old Quarter, a district dating back a thousand years, where narrow, bustling streets are named after the specific goods that were traditionally sold there. 

Hanoi is also home to serene spots such as Hoan Kiem Lake, known as ‘Lake of the Returned Sword’, a perfect place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Adjacent to the lake is the enchanting Ngoc Son Temple, standing on a small island and offering fantastic views. The city is also a foodie paradise with a thriving cafe culture, fuelled by the love for locally produced coffee.

Ho Chi Minh: A City That Never Sleeps

Ho Chi Minh City, once known as Saigon, is a city that truly never sleeps. As Vietnam’s largest city, it thrums with ceaseless energy, epitomizing the fast-paced development and youthful vitality of the country.

The city is characterized by an arresting blend of cultural influences. Majestic French colonial structures stand alongside sleek skyscrapers, while traditional markets buzz next to modern shopping malls . The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office are splendid examples of the city’s colonial past.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels – both powerful reminders of the country’s turbulent past. The city also serves as the gateway to the Mekong Delta, offering a glimpse into the rural life and natural b eauty of Vietnam .

Hue: City of Historic Splendors

Situated along the banks of the Perfume River, Hue, often referred to as the ‘City of Historic Splendors’, is a showcase of the country’s regal past and one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam. As the former imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue is a historical treasure trove dotted with ancient tombs, pagodas, and the remains of a grand fortress.

The most important attraction of Hue is the Imperial City- a vast, walled complex within the Citadel in the heart of the city, filled with palaces, temples, and gardens dating back to Vietnam’s royal era. The most famous attractions of Hue are probably the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story historic temple that offers panoramic views of the river and the city, and the Royal Tombs, the eternal resting place of former Vietnamese emperors.

Da Nang: Vietnam’s Coastal Gem

Located on the eastern seafront of Vietnam, Da Nang is a vibrant city that combines urban energy and coastal tranquility. The city is one of the  best beach resort destinations in Vietnam  but it also has beautiful surrounding nature and it’s home to a handful of fascinating historic landmarks.

The most famous beach in Da Nang is My Khe Beach, often hailed as one of the most attractive beaches in the world while the picturesque Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain , is Da Nang’s very own nature paradise offering panoramic views of the city and the sea, along with a chance to spot rare red-faced monkeys. A short distance from the city lie two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the ancient Hoi An Town and the Hindu sanctuary, My Son , adding a historical dimension to Da Nang’s appeal.

Hoi An: A Timeless Town

Speaking of the best cities to visit in Vietnam, we just can’t miss Hoi An; hands down the most beautiful historic town in the country . Once an important trading port, this beautiful town captivates its visitors with its fascinating blend of cultural influences (Japanese, Vietnamese, and Colonial) reflected in its architecture, traditions, and even local cuisine.

The city’s most prominent feature is the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with winding tiny streets that lead visitors through enchanting old Chinese merchant neighborhoods, ornate Vietnamese tube houses, and Japanese-style bridges. When dusk falls, street vendors turn on their colorful lanterns, casting beautiful reflections on the Thu Bon River.

A gentle boat ride down the river offers you a different perspective of the town and a peaceful retreat from Hoi An’s bustling streets. Last but not least, the local cuisine is a delightful experience, with signature dishes like Cao Lau, a noodle dish that originates from and is exclusive to Hoi An.

Nha Trang: Beach Lover’s Paradise

With miles of white sandy beaches bordering the crystal-clear waters of the South China Sea, Nha Trang is one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam. The city’s main beach, Tran Phu Beach is one of the most beautiful and busiest beaches in Vietnam. It’s a bustling hub of activity with a beautifully landscaped promenade, numerous beach resorts, and fine seafood restaurants. However, Nha Trang also has a handful of other beaches like Bai Dai Beach that offer a more secluded setting.

In addition to beaches, Nha Trang is also known for its marine life and for being one of the best diving destinations in the region (The Nha Trang Bay is without a doubt one of the most beautiful bays in the world and is a fantastic spot for boat trips). And if that’s not enough, inland, you can visit attractions like the Po Nagar Cham Towers (a relic of the ancient Cham civilization), the modern Agarwood Tower, the Institute of Oceanography, and the picturesque Ba Ho Waterfalls .

Da Lat: The City of Eternal Spring

Perched in the highlands of Southern Vietnam, Da Lat is a unique city that offers a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively, in contrast to the tropical climate found elsewhere in Vietnam . Da Lat is famous for its stunning natural beauty that features picturesque lakes, cascading waterfalls, and verdant forests. The city is also known for its wide variety of flowers (the cool climate sure helps them thrive) that are celebrated during the annual Flower Festival.

Another important characteristic of Da Lat is its French colonial architecture, with some of the most notable examples including the Da Lat Railway Station and the Dalat Palace Hotel. One of the city’s most popular attractions is the surreal Hang Nga Guesthouse, also known as the ‘Crazy House’ due to its unusual, whimsical architecture. Add to this a thriving coffee culture and you have a city that offers a little bit of something for everyone.

Phu Quoc: The Ultimate Island Escapade

Lying in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Cambodia but still a part of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is the country’s largest island. Known for its gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes, Phu Quoc is probably the best destination in Vietnam for an island getaway. The island is home to many beautiful beaches like Long Beach, Sao Beach, and Ong Lang Beach, each offering a slice of paradise. Phu Quoc is also a great scuba diving destination , considering that its coast has a rich variety of marine life.

The island’s interior is just as impressive; it’s home to a national park that covers more than half the island, featuring dense jungle and diverse wildlife. Phu Quoc is also home to the world’s longest cable car ride , offering jaw-dropping views of the archipelago. The island’s local life can best be observed at the bustling Duong Dong Market, or at the local fish sauce factory, where you can see how this famous Vietnamese condiment is made.

Can Tho: The Rice Basket of Vietnam

Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho is the ‘Rice Basket of Vietnam’ and a city surrounded by a maze of rivers, swamps, and picturesque rice fields. If you’re looking to experience life in the Mekong Delta , Can Tho is one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam. The city’s star attraction is the Cai Rang Floating Market , one of the largest such markets in the whole country. Here, you can see first-hand the age-old trading practices of the locals and try a variety of delicious tropical fruits.

And speaking of unique experiences in Can Tho, we have to mention exploring the delta’s waterways by boat and catching a glimpse of the lush green rice paddies, sugar-cane groves, and fruit orchards. The city itself is also a very interesting place; some of its most prominent features are the vibrant waterfront lined with sculpted gardens, the array of eateries serving some of the delta’s tastiest specialties, and of course, some beautiful temples, like the Ong Temple.

Hai Phong: The Flamboyant City

Hai Phong is a major port city in the northern part of Vietnam. Named after the flame-red blossoms that line its streets, Hai Phong’s vibrant energy matches its moniker. The city is famous for its colonial architecture, ornate temples, wide boulevards, and of course, one of the liveliest ports in the country. The city has a charming old quarter dotted with French colonial buildings (similar to Hanoi) and is also home to the Du Hang Pagoda, a beautifully preserved piece of Vietnamese heritage, and the Opera House Square that’s home to one of the most beautiful fountains in Vietnam.

Hai Phong also serves as a gateway to the famous Halong Bay, and the beautiful Cat Ba Island, offering a variety of water activities and natural exploration. With its vibrant street life, beautiful coastal views, historical charm, and proximity to some of Vietnam’s most impressive natural attractions, the flamboyant city is surely one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam.

Sapa: Rice Terraces Extravaganza

Nestled in the highlands of northern Vietnam, Sapa is a beautiful getaway famed for its magnificent rice terraces. However, the beauty of Sapa is not limited to its landscapes. The town is home to several ethnic minority groups with distinct cultures and traditions that have been preserved for thousands of years and trekking through the lush terraced fields and minority villages allows you to experience first-hand the often-forgotten cultural diversity of Vietnam .

The town itself, with its French colonial charm, offers attractions like the Sapa Church and the bustling Sapa Market, where you can buy local produce and crafts. Sapa’s cooler climate also makes it the perfect refreshing retreat from the scorching summer heat of the plains.

Vinh: A Charming Port City

Located in north-central Vietnam, Vinh is a bustling port city teeming with a lively blend of culture, history, and contemporary life. The cityscape is one of the most unique ones in Vietnam with traditional Vietnamese pagodas standing alongside remnants of French colonial architecture. The city’s most popular attraction is Hong Son, a temple that has the status of a national treasure with all of its culturally significant shrines. Equally engaging is the Uncle Ho House, which offers insightful glimpses into the life of Ho Chi Minh (the Vietnamese leader, not the city that was later named after him).

The city is also the capital of the Nghe An Province, and as such it often serves as the gateway to the province’s rich history, including the Kim Lien village, the birthplace of Ho Chi Minh. Additionally, the city’s proximity to stunning natural landscapes, such as Cua Lo Beach and Pu Mat National Park, makes it an excellent base for exploring the broader region.

Ha Long: The Most Famous Bay In Vietnam

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay is one of the most famous natural wonders in Vietnam. The Bay is the most famous attraction of the homonymous city and home to thousands of limestone islands topped with lush rainforests. A cruise through the bay takes you on a journey along these natural marvels and allows you to discover hidden grottoes and caves within the fascinating limestone structures.

Moreover, the floating fishing villages, such as Cua Van and Ba Hang offer visitors a unique cultural experience where one can learn about the villagers’ lifestyle and customs. Not far from the bay, you can also visit the Sun World Ha Long Park a massive entertainment complex that’s home to exciting rides, a zoo, and a water park, offering fun for the whole family.

Buon Ma Thuot: The Coffee Capital Of Vietnam

Located in the Central Highlands, Buon Ma Thuot is known as the Coffee Capital of Vietnam. This city is at the heart of the country’s coffee industry , producing most of the robust beans that contribute to Vietnam’s reputation as a leading coffee exporter. Coffee lovers can visit some of the many plantations that surround the city, learn more about the coffee-making process from bean to cup, and of course, indulge in a cup of rich, freshly brewed local coffee.

However, the city is not just about coffee; it’s also famous for the stunning natural beauty that surrounds the city. The area is home to several waterfalls, including Dray Nur and Dray Sap Waterfalls, and is on the doorstep of Yok Don National Park, Vietnam’s largest national park and one of the best places for wildlife watching in the country.

Vung Tau: The Scenic Seaside Resort Town

The scenic seaside resort of Vung Tau is the perfect quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. The town is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, particularly Back Beach and Front Beach, each with its own distinct charm. The town is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, especially surfing, jet-skiing, and kite surfing.

Vung Tau’s cultural side should not be forgotten, with landmarks like the towering Christ of Vung Tau statue, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the beautiful Vung Tau Lighthouse which serves as a testament to the town’s colonial past. Vung Tau is also home to the iconic Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda, a prime example of exquisite Buddhist art and architecture and last but not least, the city is also famous for its local seafood cuisine, with countless beachside restaurants serving fresh catches of the day, adding to the town’s coastal charm.

Quy Nhon: A Hidden Coastal Gem

This tranquil coastal paradise in the central part of the country is one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam for holidayers. Quy Nhon is renowned for its beautiful beaches like Ky Co and Bai Xep, and for offering a serene seaside retreat away from the typical tourist trails. The azure waters, white sandy beaches, and gentle waves form the perfect backdrop for relaxing beach days away from the typical hustle and bustle you’d usually come across in most other parts of the country.

The city is also home to a handful of important historical sites, including the ancient Banh It Towers and the Twin Cham Towers; relics of the once-flourishing Champa civilization. While still relatively unfrequented by international visitors, Quy Nhon offers a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, and should definitely be on your list.

Pleiku: The Nature Lover’s Paradise

Located in the central highlands of Vietnam, Pleiku is a city encircled by awe-inspiring natural beauty and the city’s most popular landmarks are its lakes – the serene Bien Ho Lake, often cloaked in morning mist, and the volcanic Sea Lake, offering panoramic views from its shores. Pleiku is also the gateway to the scenic Kon Tum Province which is home to diverse ethnic minority groups with unique culture and traditions that have been around for hundreds of years (especially the Jarai and Bahnar villages, with their unique communal rong houses).

Dong Hoi: Rustic Rural Charm

Located in the central part of Vietnam, Dong Hoi is a city that exudes rustic charm, offering a window into rural Vietnam. The city serves as a base for exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , known for being home to the world’s largest cave, Son Doong, and its rich biodiversity. The city itself has a laid-back vibe, a rural charm, and a scenic riverfront and beautiful beaches like Nhat Le Beach, offering the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday. The local cuisine is also a must-try, with a variety of seafood dishes capturing the essence of Doing Hoi’s coastal location.

My Tho: The Mekong Delta City

Located in the Tien Giang Province, is a lively town lying in the heart of the Mekong Delta region and one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam if you’re looking for a different experience . My Tho is a realm of waterways, floating markets, fruit orchards, and rice fields, that present a unique glimpse into everyday life in the delta.

In addition to floating markets and natural beauty, the city is also known for its beautiful Buddhist pagodas, including the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a serene spiritual site adorned with Buddha statues and beautiful gardens. Last but not least, while you’re in My Tho, perhaps the best way to explore the city is taking a boat tour along the waterways which allows you to not only enjoy the lush landscapes but also gives you a chance to experience the local way of life on the delta.

Ninh Binh: The “Halong Bay On Land”

Situated in the Red River Delta in northern Vietnam , Ninh Binh is often dubbed the “Halong Bay on Land” due to its jaw-dropping landscapes of limestone karsts and caves rising out of the emerald green rice paddies. The city is also surrounded by numerous tourist sites, including the Trang An Landscape Complex, a valley dotted with limestone karst peaks, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, famous for its ancient temples dedicated to past Vietnamese kings, and the Tam Coc area, known for its three caves, ideal for boat trips and leisurely bike rides along the countryside paths.

Phan Thiet: The Red Sand Dunes

This list of the best cities to visit in Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without Phan Thiet, a coastal city in south Vietnam famous for its unique natural feature – the Red and White Sand Dunes. These sprawling sand dunes, reminiscent of a desert landscape, offer a striking contrast to the usual tropical scenery you’ll come across in most of the country.

Visitors can enjoy a fun-filled day sliding down the slopes, riding quad bikes, or simply admiring the sun setting over the undulating sands. In addition to the dunes, Phan Thiet is also home to several beautiful beaches like Mui Ne and Phu Quy (a bustling fishing harbor brimming with colorful boats) but also a few historical sites like the Po Sah Inu Cham Towers, showcasing the architectural legacy of the ancient Champa Kingdom.

Are you a fan of history and want to learn more about this part of the world? Then reading more about the Ayutthaya Kingdom is a good start.

Quang Ngai: The Ancient Ruins Hub

Quang Ngai is a city in central Vietnam steeped in history and culture. The city is home to a myriad of ancient ruins, war relics, and traditional villages but it’s best known for the impressive remains of the Champa civilization, with the Thap Poshanu Cham Tower standing as a testament to this ancient culture. Another impressive sight is the My Lai Massacre Memorial Museum which serves as a poignant reminder of the Vietnam War. Aside from historical sites, the city also features pristine beaches and the nearby Ly Son Island, known for its garlic farms and scenic volcanic landscapes.

Tuy Hoa: A Hidden Beach Lover’s Paradise

Last but not least, we round up this list of the best cities to visit in Vietnam with Tuy Hoa, the perfect hidden paradise for beach lovers. Known for its pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters, Tuy Hoa is a perfect destination for a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path seaside holiday. The city’s most famous natural landmark is the Da Dia Reef, an expansive area filled with thousands of basalt rock columns formed by volcanic eruptions.

The next most famous natural landmark is probably Nhan Mountain, home to the ancient Nhan Tower which provides stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. Tuy Hoa might not be as well-known as some of the other cities on the list, but still, it’s a city rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, and overall, a captivating place to explore.

Did you like our list of the best cities to visit in Vietnam? Which one would you like to visit first? Do you think we forgot to include some other interesting cities on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Best places to visit in Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is one of the most famous attractions in Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful and diverse country that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, or vibrant culture, you will find it in Vietnam. In this article, we will show you the best places to visit in Vietnam, covering the most popular destinations as well as some hidden gems. You will also learn about the best places to visit in Vietnam for different types of travelers, such as honeymooners, families with kids, or history buffs. So read on and get ready to plan your dream trip to Vietnam.

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Ha Noi City

Ha long bay, hoi an ancient town, ho chi minh city, mekong delta, best honeymoon destinations in vietnam, places to visit in vietnam for families with kids, places to visit in vietnam for history buffs, other hidden gems in vietnam, final lines.

Vietnam is considered a great place to visit by many travelers. With everything from superb cuisine to stunning landscapes, this corner of Southeast Asia dazzles the senses. Peaceful paddy fields give way to frenetic urban centers like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where the youthful population rushes to embrace the future. Boutiques fill the French colonial buildings in enchanting Hoi An; in the north, a world away, are Sapa’s ethnic markets. Around Vietnam, lush jungles and jagged karst peaks beckon adventurers. Absorb it all but take time to relax, perhaps on the long, alluring coastline with its world-class beaches.

It is a fascinating country with a rich culture, diverse landscapes, and friendly people. Whether you want to explore the bustling cities, the ancient temples, the stunning beaches, or the majestic mountains, you will find something to suit your taste and budget. Some of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam are Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Sapa. If you want to discover more about this amazing destination, check out our places to visit in Vietnam guide and plan your trip today. Here are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam:

Hanoi is the capital and cultural center of Vietnam

Ha Noi is the capital of Vietnam , with a booming population and economy. It’s an exhilarating blend of eastern and western culture. Exploring Ha Noi, you’ll see French colonialism visible through cuisine and architecture.

Ha Noi is packed with incredible temples. The standing ones are the 11th-century Temple of Literature and One-pillar Pagoda. One of the major attractions of Ha Noi is Uncle Ho’s mausoleum, a striking building from the exterior.

At night, Ha Noi shines its vibrant life that is young and crowded that worths any cost to join. It is time for fancy dinners or budget meals with reasonable drinks.

Hanoi:  The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. Here you can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Long Bien Bridge. You can also wander through the Old Quarter, where you’ll find traditional markets, shops, and restaurants. Read more : Things to do in Hanoi

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations

Halong Bay is a must-visit destination in Vietnam with its stunning combination of karst limestone peaks and sheltered, shimmering seas . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 1,600 limestone karst islands and islets. Visitors can explore the bay by boat, kayak, or even swimming. Ha Long has a reputation that is well-deserved for the true beauty of this place. The name of Ha Long means descending dragons, indicated in the silhouette of the limestone cliffs. A day cruise through these huge stones allows you to see the sublime of this otherworldly bay. Then, take a day swimming in the blue water and another day exploring caves or some of the more remote, uninhabited islands.

Recently there is huge investment on overnight cruise on the bay. There are more than 500 cruises with luxury furniture and spacy cabins for travelers. Visitor is advice to take 1night cruise or even 2 night cruise to enjoy the best that Halong has to offer and see all moment of Halong the top attraction of Vietnam.

It’s easy to book a cruise on this link at the best rate and instant support of Halong Cruise specialist.

Halong Bay:  This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for any traveler to Vietnam. Its stunning karst islands and limestone formations rise up from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, creating a truly magical sight. CHECK RATE LUXURY HALONG CRUISES  Click

Recently, tourists yet have a new way to sight-see Ha Long from above. Sitting on a seaplane, Ha Long appears to be more salient. Prominent activities in Ha Long can count kayaking on the bay, cruising through caves and islands, climbing cliffs, visiting fishing villages, and more.

apa is a picturesque town in the highlands of northern Vietnam

Sapa is a small town located in Lao Cai, a province in the Northwestern region of Vietnam. It offers plenty of interesting things to do and places to see, including spectacular mountain landscapes, verdant rice terraces, and unique ethnic minority villages. Known locally as the “ town of clouds ,” Sapa effortlessly mesmerizes travelers with its beauty. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities like trekking and biking or simply want to soak up the local culture, Sapa is a destination that should not be missed when traveling to Vietnam.

Sapa: This mountain town in northern Vietnam is a popular destination for hiking, trekking, and mountain biking. You can also visit the nearby Bac Ha Market, a traditional market where ethnic minority people from the surrounding area come to sell their produce. Planning your Sapa getaway and feeling overwhelmed? Worry not, as this list of top things to do in Sapa will ensure you have an amazing trip.

Ninh Binh is a scenic province that is often called the Halong Bay on land

Located in the Southeast of Ha Noi, Ninh Binh is a paradise that accommodates tons of unspoiled parts of the nation. It’s a jump-off destination for those who seek to get rid of dust and fume of urban life.

Notably, in Ninh Binh, Tam Coc features wondrous landscapes dotted with several limestone cliffs and rock formations amongst emerald green rice paddies. Seeing Tam Coc, in reality, is yet an exclusive experience. The best way to explore the place is to set up yourself on a boat and row along the green paddies between the cliffs. Along the way, there will be three tunnels that run through the mountains, which were carved over time by the river itself.

Ninh Binh is a province in northern Vietnam known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The area is often referred to as ‘Halong Bay on land’ due to its limestone karsts and scenic waterways. Visitors to Ninh Binh can explore its many attractions, such as the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. With its breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history, Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam. Seeking recommendations for your stay in Ninh Binh? Explore this carefully compiled list of exciting things to do in Ninh Binh and make the most of your visit.

Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

There is no place more serene than Hue in Central Vietnam. Known as the imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty. Today, the vestiges of this former glorious time are reflected in the city’s architecture, lifestyle, and dishes. To get the best out of a trip to Hue, visitors should not miss the Citadel, the sprawling complex of grand palaces, ornate temples, walls, and gates back in the days.

Another important landmark is the Thien Mu Pagoda, the city’s official symbol. This divine building carries history in a unique architecture reflecting the religious belief voraciously at that time of the royal family.

Hue is a city in central Vietnam that was once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. The city is known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture, including the Imperial City and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Visitors to Hue can explore its many historical landmarks, take a boat ride on the Perfume River, and sample its delicious cuisine. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Hue is a destination that should not be missed when traveling to Vietnam. For more information on what to see and do in Hue, check out this comprehensive Hue travel guide . Read more : Things to do in Hue

Hoi An Ancient Town is a charming and well-preserved historical site

The 2,000-year ancient town of Hoi An is a fantastic place to visit. It is not just a town with some old buildings, but it also is a historical site full of color and vitality. What makes Hoi An so different is architecture, tradition, culture, and food. Around the outskirt of Hoi An is a number of traditional villages following crafting, old-fashion farming, and fishery for hundreds of years. Those atmospheric places feature a sky of fresh air to inhale and release whatever burdens you in the common life.

Old-town Hoi An is a quarter filled with antique buildings of Japanese style. Inside those traditional wooden houses, the local set up shops for clothes, shoes, bags, textiles, souvenirs, and dining places.

Hoi An Ancient Town sits in Quang Nam Province, centrally located in Vietnam, nestled on the northern bank where the Thu Bon River meets the sea. This ancient trading town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional Vietnamese town. Its well-preserved architecture, including Chinese shophouses, Japanese merchant houses, and French colonial buildings, make it a fascinating place to explore. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, be sure to check out this Hoi An travel guide  for ideas on what to do and see.

Nha Trang is a popular coastal city that offers sun, sand, and sea

Situated in one of the most beautiful bays off the coast in the South Central of Vietnam, Nha Trang offers a premium breeze by the beach. This seaside resort city is a favorite tourist spot with lush beaches, islands, and spectacular mountains. Besides, the place is adorned with resorts, palm trees, and crystal clear water. Not only that, but Vinpearl land is also a complex of amusement park and leisure check-in. It provides entertainment of all kinds from roller coasters, outdoor bar bars, swimming pools, to restaurants all situated on an isolated island.

Nha Trang is also a land of an interlaced culture of Champa and Viet people. The customs have been around for hundreds of years and keep showing off their uniqueness and pride. Don’t miss Ponaga temple when you visit Nha Trang.

This coastal city is a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches, resorts, and restaurants. Nha Trang is not only a popular beach destination in Vietnam, but also a paradise for golf enthusiasts. You can find some of the best golf courses in the country here, such as Diamond Bay Golf & Villas, Vinpearl Golf Club, and KN Golf Links. You can also go diving or snorkeling in the clear waters off the coast. If you want to experience the ultimate golf vacation in Nha Trang, check out our golf tours in Vietnam and book your trip today. Not sure what to do during your stay in Hoi An? This list of  things to do in Nha Trang  has got you covered.

Da Lat is a romantic hill station that is known as the city of eternal spring

For those who miss the chilling vibe but not freezing cold, Da Lat is a place of dream. The city of mist has year-round cool weather with idyllic scenery of valleys, pine trees, and vivid streets full of flowers. Da Lat is a hidden gem among the cities to visit in Vietnam. With its cool climate, stunning natural beauty, and charming French colonial architecture, it’s no wonder that Da Lat is considered by many to be the best city to visit in Vietnam. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Da Lat has something for everyone.

Da Lat was a summer retreat of the royal family of the Nguyen dynasty and high-ranking officials of the French colonials. Today, this charming town is a tourist center with walkable streets, old buildings, pine tree forests, misty valleys, splendid lakes, and picturesque landscapes.

Savoring a BBQ dinner and some wine in a chilling night of Da Lat while viewing streams of people of the city live, work and trade will be an extraordinary joy. In Da Lat, tourists shouldn’t miss a cup of hot coffee in the morning and some soy milk sold on the street at night. Just sit and look at the spiraling smoke from the cup is such a relieving feeling that not many places on earth can offer.

Da Lat is a city located in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It is famous for its countryside charm and cooler climate, which draws couples, wellness seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The city was once a summer getaway for the French, who left their mark in the European-inspired architecture and countless lakes. Da Lat is situated on a lake on the Lam Vien Plateau at 4,920 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level and sits among pine-covered hills with picturesque waterfalls nearby. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s landmarks, playing a round of golf, hiking, biking, or sampling the local coffee culture, Da Lat has something for everyone.

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam

In southern Vietnam, the most considerable capital of economy and population, Ho Chi Minh city, welcomes all visitors to its blend of historic and modern attractions. The city is formally known as Saigon, a respected name called by the citizens who live with the memories of the old time.

Vibrant Saigon is the city of a dynamic lifestyle where people can do all the shopping, dining, touring, and exploring the very distinctive life here. Wandering around city, not only the bustle you will see but also the poised-manner Saigon hidden in alleys and corners off the rushing streets.

Cuisine in Ho Chi Minh city is a mix of new and old. People of Saigon are genuinely creative in the way they cook and create new dishes. A food tour in Saigon will be a noteworthy experience for anyone, especially at an unbelievable price.

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. The city is known for its French colonial architecture, vibrant street food scene, and bustling markets. Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can explore its many museums and historical landmarks, such as the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace. From exploring bustling markets to visiting historic landmarks, there are plenty of  Ho Chi Minh City activities to keep you busy. With its lively energy and endless things to see and do, travelers to Vietnam should make it a point to visit Ho Chi Minh City, an essential destination.

Mekong Delta is a rich and colorful region in southern Vietnam

The Mekong Delta is a region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong River empties into the sea. Known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a lush and fertile area with a rich agricultural heritage. Visitors to the Mekong Delta can explore its many waterways by boat, visit floating markets, and sample delicious local cuisine. With its unique culture and stunning natural beauty, the Mekong Delta is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam

The flagships of Mekong Delta are the colorful life on rivers, fruitful orchards, verdant paddies, and hospitable locals. This agricultural region, with a large portion of land fertile by the Mekong river, features a maze of canals and tributaries. It is not only rich in culture but also in the natural endowment.

Touring Mekong delta is ideally done on boats through branches to experience the serenity under shades of palm coconut trees on both sides. On the other hand, tourists can visit orchards and savor juicy fresh tropical fruits . Then, take a trip around the quaint villages on a bicycle and greet farmers laboring on the fields. That’ll make an unparalleled experience of a whole different world from anywhere on this globe.

Mekong Delta: This region is known for its lush rice paddies, floating markets, and traditional villages. You can explore the Mekong Delta by boat, bicycle, or even cyclo (a three-wheeled bicycle rickshaw). If you’re visiting the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, be sure to check out the  Mekong Delta floating markets for a unique shopping experience or if you’re looking for a relaxing and luxurious way to explore the Mekong Delta region, consider taking one of these  Mekong River cruises .

Phu Quoc Island is a tropical paradise that offers relaxation and adventure

If you are looking for some of the best places to visit in Vietnam for couples, you will be spoiled for choice. Vietnam is a wonderful destination for romance, with its stunning scenery, rich culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly people. Whether you want to relax on a tropical beach, cruise on a scenic bay, explore a charming town, or trek in the mountains, you will find something to suit your taste and budget. Here are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam for couples and how to get there:

• Hoi An: Hoi An is one of the most romantic places in Vietnam, with its ancient town, lantern-lit streets, colorful markets, and serene river. You can stroll around the town, visit the temples and museums, shop for souvenirs and tailor-made clothes, and enjoy the local delicacies. You can also take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, watch the sunset from the Japanese Bridge, or join a cooking class or lantern-making workshop. Hoi An is also close to some beautiful beaches, such as An Bang and Cua Dai, where you can relax and swim. To get to Hoi An, you can fly to Da Nang and take a taxi or bus for about 45 minutes.
• Halong Bay: Halong Bay is one of the most iconic places in Vietnam, with its stunning combination of karst limestone peaks and sheltered, shimmering seas. It is also one of the most romantic places in Vietnam, especially if you book an overnight cruise and make time for your own special moments on this World Heritage wonder. You can rise early for an ethereal misty dawn, pilot a kayak into grottoes and lagoons, swim and snorkel in the clear water, or enjoy a candlelit dinner on board. To get to Halong Bay, you can take a bus or shuttle from Hanoi for about 4 hours.
• Da Lat: Da Lat is known as the city of eternal spring, with its cool climate, green hills, flower-filled parks, and misty lakes. It is also known as the city of love, with its romantic atmosphere and attractions. You can visit the Valley of Love, where you can take a paddle boat or horse ride around the lake, admire the flower gardens and sculptures, or enjoy a picnic. You can also visit the Crazy House, a whimsical architectural wonder that resembles a fairy tale castle. You can also explore the waterfalls, coffee plantations, and strawberry farms around Da Lat. To get to Da Lat, you can fly from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi for about an hour.
• Da Nang: Enjoy a relaxing and fun-filled getaway in this seaside city, where you can sunbathe on the beach, catch some waves, or explore the Marble Mountains. You can also treat yourselves to romantic dinners and massages in Da Nang. To get to Da Nang, you can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for about an hour.
• Nha Trang: Experience the ultimate beach vacation in this resort town, where you can swim and sunbathe on the sand. You can also have some adventure and romance by scuba diving, snorkeling, or hiking in the nearby mountains. To get to Nha Trang, you can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for about an hour and a half.
• Phu Quoc:  Discover the beauty and charm of this island, where you can admire the stunning beaches, the green rainforests, and the tasty seafood. You can also relax on the beach, go hiking, or visit the Phu Quoc Prison. To get to Phu Quoc, you can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for about two hours

Ba Na Hills is a fun and whimsical resort that features a theme park and a Golden Bridge

Vietnam is a great destination for families with kids, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities that are fun, educational, and affordable. Whether you want to enjoy the beach, the mountains, the city, or the countryside, you will find something to suit your family’s interests and preferences. Here are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam for families with kids and how to get there:

• Sapa: Sapa is a mountain town in the north of Vietnam, known for its stunning scenery and ethnic minority villages. You can hike through the mountains, where you can see the terraced rice fields, waterfalls, and forests. You can also visit the Sapa Market, where you can buy handicrafts and souvenirs from the local people. You can also take a cooking class, where you can learn how to make some of the local dishes. To get to Sapa, you can take a train from Hanoi to Lao Cai for about 7h 55m and then take a bus or taxi to Sapa for about an hour.
• Hanoi: Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a lively city with a rich history and culture. You can explore the Old Quarter, where you can see the French colonial architecture, visit the temples and museums, and shop for souvenirs. You can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can see the embalmed body of the former leader. You can also watch a water puppet show, a traditional art form that uses puppets on water to tell stories. To get to Hanoi, you can fly from Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang for about an hour and a half.
• Hoi An: Hoi An is a charming ancient town that is full of culture, history, and beauty. You can wander around the lantern-lit streets, visit the temples and museums, shop for souvenirs and tailor-made clothes, and enjoy the local delicacies. You can also take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, watch the sunset from the Japanese Bridge, or join a cooking class or lantern-making workshop. Hoi An is also close to some beautiful beaches, such as An Bang and Cua Dai, where you can relax and swim. To get to Hoi An, you can fly to Da Nang and take a taxi or bus for about 45 minutes.
• Halong Bay: Halong Bay is one of the most iconic places in Vietnam, with its stunning combination of karst limestone peaks and sheltered, shimmering seas. It is also one of the most family-friendly places in Vietnam, especially if you book an overnight cruise that offers activities such as kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and visiting caves and islands. You can also enjoy a delicious seafood dinner on board and watch the stars at night. To get to Halong Bay, you can take a bus or shuttle from Hanoi for about 4 hours or a private car for about 3 hours.
• Phu Quoc: Phu Quoc is an island paradise that is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and delicious seafood. Families can relax on the beach, go hiking in the national park, visit the Phu Quoc Prison museum, or enjoy the Vinpearl Land amusement park that has a zoo, a water park, an aquarium, and shows. To get to Phu Quoc, you can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for about 2 hours.
• Da Nang: Da Nang is a coastal city that offers a mix of urban and natural attractions. You can enjoy the beach, go surfing, or visit the Marble Mountains that have caves and pagodas. You can also visit the Ba Na Hills resort that has a cable car, a French village replica, a fantasy park, and a golden bridge held by giant hands. You can also visit the Son Tra peninsula that has a giant Lady Buddha statue and a monkey reserve. To get to Da Nang, you can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for about an hour.
• Nha Trang: Nha Trang is another beach resort town that has plenty of activities for families. You can swim and sunbathe on the sand, go scuba diving or snorkeling in the coral reefs, or take a boat trip to nearby islands. You can also visit the Vinpearl Land amusement park that has a cable car, a water park, an aquarium, and shows. You can also visit the Po Nagar Cham towers that are ancient Hindu temples. To get to Nha Trang, you can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for about an hour and a half.
• Mekong Delta: Mekong Delta is a region in the south of Vietnam, known for its lush green rice paddies, floating markets, and traditional villages. You can take a boat trip on the Mekong River , where you can see the local life and culture. You can also visit the floating markets, where you can buy fruits and vegetables from the boats. You can also visit the traditional villages, where you can see the coconut candy factories, rice paper workshops, and fish farms. To get to Mekong Delta, you can take a bus or shuttle from Ho Chi Minh City for about 4 hours.

My Son Sanctuary is an archaeological site that showcases the culture and history of the Champa Kingdom

Vietnam has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years, from ancient civilizations to colonial influences to modern conflicts. If you are a history buff, you will find plenty of places to visit in Vietnam that will satisfy your curiosity and inspire your imagination. Here are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam for history buffs:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex in Hanoi : This is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the leader of the Vietnamese revolution. The complex also includes the Ho Chi Minh Museum, where you can learn about his life and achievements, and see his stilt house, where he lived and worked. Other historical attractions in Hanoi include the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique Buddhist temple; the Presidential Palace, a French colonial building; and the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the Hanoi Hilton, where many American prisoners of war were held during the Vietnam War.
• War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City : This museum documents the Vietnam War, from its origins to its end. It houses a collection of war artifacts, photographs, and films that show the horrors and impacts of the war on the Vietnamese people. You can also see some of the military vehicles and weapons that were used during the war.
• Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City : These tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. They are a network of underground passages that stretch for miles. Visitors can go on a tour of the tunnels and learn about their history and function. You can also crawl through some of the tunnels and see how they lived and fought.
• Imperial Citadel of Hue in Hue : This was the capital of Vietnam for centuries. It was the site of the Battle of Hue in 1968, one of the bloodiest battles of the Vietnam War. The citadel is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the architecture and art of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam. You can also witness the scars of war at the citadel, which was heavily damaged during the battle.
• My Son Sanctuary : My Son Sanctuary is an archaeological site that showcases the culture and history of the Champa Kingdom, a Hindu civilization that ruled central and southern Vietnam from the 4th to the 13th century. You can see the remains of more than 70 temples and towers that were built with brick and stone and decorated with sculptures and inscriptions. You can also learn about the religious and artistic traditions of the Cham people and their interactions with other cultures in Southeast Asia. My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into the ancient and mysterious past of Vietnam.
• Vietnam DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between Hue and Da Nang: This was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. It was a heavily fortified area that saw many fierce clashes and bombings. Visitors can take a tour of the DMZ and see some of the historical sites, such as the Vinh Moc Tunnels, where an entire village lived underground to escape the bombing; the Khe Sanh Combat Base, where a major siege took place in 1968; and the Hien Luong Bridge, which symbolized the division of Vietnam.
• Vinh Moc Tunnels near Dong Ha: These tunnels were used by civilians during the Vietnam War to escape the fighting. The tunnels are located in a remote area near the DMZ, but they are worth the visit. You can see how an entire village lived underground for six years and survived the bombing. You can also learn about the history and culture of the local people and their resilience.
• Mekong Delta: This region is home to a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the floating markets, where they can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish from local vendors. They can also visit traditional villages, where they can see the rural life and customs of the people. They can also learn about the history of the region, which was once part of the Khmer Empire and later became a battleground during the Vietnam War.
• Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi : This prison was used by the French and then by the Vietnamese to house political prisoners. It is now a museum that documents the history of the prison and its inmates. You can see some of the cells, torture devices, and artifacts that were used in the prison.
• Ben Tre Museum in Ben Tre : This museum documents the Tet Offensive, which was a major turning point in the Vietnam War. The exhibits include photographs, weapons, and artifacts from the war. You can also learn about how Ben Tre was one of the first places to rise up against the South Vietnamese government during the war.

These are just some of the places to visit in Vietnam for history buffs. There are many more historical sites and museums that you can discover in this fascinating country. Whether you are interested in ancient civilizations, colonial influences, or modern conflicts, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in Vietnam.

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is a natural wonderland that hosts the largest cave in the world

If you want to explore some amazing hidden gems in Vietnam that are off the beaten track, you have plenty of options. Vietnam is full of incredible places that most tourists don’t know about. From stunning waterfalls and caves to ancient ruins and islands, these places will make you fall in love with Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. Here are some of the off-the-beaten-path places in vietnam that are also hidden gems that you might not know about:

• Pu Luong Nature Reserve:  This beautiful reserve is located in the northeast of Vietnam, about 150 kilometers from Hanoi. It is home to stunning valleys, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. There are also many opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking in the reserve.
• Ha Giang:  This mountainous province in the north of Vietnam is known for its stunning scenery, including the Ha Giang Loop, a 300-kilometer motorbike route that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the province.
• Yen Bai :  This province is home to the Mu Cang Chai rice terraces, which are considered to be some of the most beautiful in Vietnam. The terraces are particularly stunning during the harvest season, when they are awash in shades of green, yellow, and red.
• Chau Doc:  This town in the Mekong Delta is a great place to experience the unique culture and cuisine of the region. You can visit floating markets, go on boat trips, and sample local delicacies such as snake wine and frog porridge.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park:  This province is home to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to some of the most spectacular caves in the world, including Hang Son Doong, the largest cave in the world by volume.
• Cát Tiên National Park:  This park is located in the south of Vietnam and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and rhinos. There are also many opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping in the park.
• Mui Ne Dunes:  These towering sand dunes are located in the south of Vietnam and are a popular destination for sandboarding and hiking. You can also visit the nearby fishing village of Mui Ne, which is a great place to sample fresh seafood.
• Cát Bà Island :  This island is located in the Gulf of Tonkin and is a popular destination for beach lovers. There are also many opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and scuba diving on the island.
• Quy Nhon:  This coastal city in central Vietnam is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach. There are also many opportunities for exploring the surrounding countryside, which is home to stunning waterfalls, rice fields, and mountains.

These are just a few of the many hidden gems that can be found in Vietnam. With its diverse landscape and rich culture, Vietnam is a country that has something to offer everyone.

In conclusion, Vietnam has something for everyone, whether you are looking for a budget or a luxury tour. If you are a budget traveler, you can still enjoy the best of Vietnam’s scenery, culture, food, and activities. You can explore the natural beauty of Halong Bay, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, and Ban Gioc Waterfall. You can learn about the history and heritage of Cu Chi Tunnels, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and My Son Sanctuary. You can experience the urban and rural life of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Hoi An. Some of the other places that are suitable for budget travelers are Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Da Lat, Mekong Delta, Danang, and Hue. These places are affordable, accessible, and enjoyable. You can find cheap and comfortable accommodation, transportation, and food. You can also benefit from the free or low-cost attractions and activities. You can visit museums and temples, hike or bike around nature, join a street food tour or a cooking class, or shop at local markets and shops. You can also save money by booking cheap tours and packages that can help you visit multiple places in one trip.

The S-shape land of Vietnam is a remarkable place for traveling that offers all kinds of experience from hiking in the mountains, trekking through trails, chilling in urban nightlight, resting on beaches, savoring gourmet food, and beyond. Every destination in Vietnam has a unique sense to make each trip an incredible one to keep in memories.

And it’s not just about 10 best places to visit in Vietnam above; this country has more waiting for you to discover along the way. Get well-prepared for the Vietnam trip and be ready for incoming surprises.

In conclusion, Vietnam is a country with a rich history and diverse culture that offers something for every traveler. From the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the stunning natural beauty of Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta, there are countless places to explore and experiences to be had. Whether you’re interested in history, food, adventure, or relaxation, Vietnam has it all. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this beautiful country.

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1. TRAVELLING FROM AHMEDABAD-INDIA 2. 2 PERSON AGE 54 AND AGE 52 3 10 DAYS 3 START OR 4 STAR DONT KNOW 4 NO HISTORIC PLACES, NO TEMPLES, 5. ONLY EXOTIC TOP PLACES 6. SHOULD I FIRST GO TO CHI MINH AND THAN COME TO HANOI TO RETUN INDIA PL CLEAR THIS POINT.

I want to travel Vietnam as a tourist, pls send me details how to proceed & what will be the cost per person for 5 days & 6 nights

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Top 12 Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful and diverse country with a rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning natural scenery. From bustling cities to charming ancient towns and beautiful beaches, Vietnam has something for everyone. The cuisine is also exceptional, and the people are warm and welcoming. A visit to Vietnam is an unforgettable experience.

Below I am detailing the best cities to visit in Vietnam, from Northern, Central, to Southern regions of Vietnam.

Top 12 Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam:

• Halong Bay – one of my favorites!
• Hoi An – one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam!
• Ho Chi Minh City

Can Tho (Mekong Delta)

Location : Northern Vietnam, 2 hours from Halong Bay Most Known For : Capital City; Train Road Best Hotel: LeaH Silk Hotel

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. The city is known for its rich history, French colonial architecture, and vibrant street life.

Some of the top attractions in Hanoi include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and street vendors, where you can sample some of the best street food in Vietnam. In fact, you can take a Street Food tour that gives you access to the famous Train Road in Hanoi!

I also loved going to the Water Puppet Show – this is a great way to learn about the culture of Vietnam through a unique form of art!

Location : Northern Vietnam, 2 hours from Hanoi Most Known For : Towering Limestone Cliffs Best Hotel: Book an Overnight Boat!

Visiting Halong Bay is a must-do experience for anyone traveling to Vietnam. Located in the northeast of the country, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs that rise majestically from the sea.

A trip to Halong Bay offers the opportunity to explore the bay’s many islands and caves, go kayaking through hidden lagoons, and take in stunning panoramic views from the top of its many cliffs.

The best way to experience the beauty of Halong Bay is on a traditional Vietnamese junk boat, where you can relax on the deck while cruising through the bay’s breathtaking scenery.

Whether you choose to take a day trip or spend a few nights on a boat, visiting Halong Bay is sure to be a highlight of your Vietnam adventure.

Location : Northwest Vietnam Most Known For : Lush Rice Fields Best Hotel :

Sapa (Sa Pa) is a mountainous town located in the northwest region of Vietnam. The town is known for its terraced rice fields, hill tribes, and trekking activities. It is likely that when you think of Vietnam, you think of Sapa, which is exactly why it should be on your list of cities to visit in Vietnam!

Some of the top attractions in Sapa include the Fansipan Mountain, the Muong Hoa Valley , and the Love Waterfall. While in Sapa, be sure to enjoy panoramic views over the rice terraces!

Location : Central Vietnam Most Known For : Floating Lanterns, Custom Made Suits Best Hotel : Cozy Savvy Boutique

Hoi An is the most beautiful city in Vietnam. You absolutely must add this to your list of cities to visit in Vietnam – I promise you won’t regret it!

Hoi An is a charming ancient town located in central Vietnam. The town has preserved its traditional architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful lanterns, making it one of the most picturesque places in Vietnam. You can take a Lantern Making Class in Hoi An to learn more about this beautiful art form!

Some of the top attractions in Hoi An include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Tan Ky Old House, and the night market. The town is also famous for its tailor shops, where you can get custom-made clothing at a reasonable price. I recommend going to Yaly!

Read More: Best Things To Do in Hoi An

Location : Central Vietnam Most Known For : Imperial City Best Hotel : Hue River Side Villa

Hue is a former imperial capital city located in central Vietnam. The city is known for its historical monuments, temples, and cuisine.

Some of the top attractions in Hue include the Imperial City, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Tombs of the Emperors. Hue is also famous for its cuisine, which is a fusion of royal cuisine and street food.

Be sure to end the day in Hue with a Sunset River Cruise that includes traditional music and singing!

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Location : Southern Vietnam Most Known For : Largest City, War Museums & War Tunnels Best Hotel: Orchids Saigon Hotel

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a hub of commerce, culture, and nightlife. The city has a mix of modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks, such as the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

For a taste of local culture, head to the bustling Ben Thanh Market or sample some street food in one of the many food stalls scattered around the city.

Near Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to check out the War Tunnels (offsite from the Museum listed above).

Location : Southern Vietnam Most Known For : Island Hopping Best Hotel : Azura Gold Hotel

Nha Trang is a coastal city located in southern Vietnam. The city has beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and water sports activities, making it a popular destination for beach lovers.

Some of the top attractions in Nha Trang include the Hon Mun Island, the Po Nagar Cham Towers, and the Long Son Pagoda. One of my personal favorite activities in Nha Trang was the mud baths and spa !

Location : Central Vietnam, near Hoi An Most Known For : Caves, Mountains, and More! Best Hotel : Sofiana My Khe Hotel

Da Nang is a modern city located in central Vietnam. The city has stunning bridges, beautiful beaches, and popular attractions like the Marble Mountains (glorious system of caves, temples, etc) and Ba Na Hills (iconic bridge with hands).

Location : Southern Vietnam Most Known For : Sandy Beaches Best Hotel : Villa Aria Boutique Muine

Mui Ne is a coastal town located in southern Vietnam. The town has beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and kite surfing activities. Some of the top attractions in Mui Ne include the Fairy Stream, the Red Sand Dunes, and the Fishing Village.

Location : Southern Vietnam Most Known For : Floating Markets Best Hotel : Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa

Can Tho is a bustling city located in the Mekong Delta. The city is known for its floating markets, fruit orchards, and traditional rural life. Some of the top attractions in Can Tho include the Cai Rang Floating Market, the Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, and the Binh Thuy Ancient House.

Location : Island South of Vietnam mainland Most Known For : Beautiful Beaches Best Hotel : SOL by Melia OR JW Marriott Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand, famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and seafood. This island has the longest ocean Cable Car that will take you to Pineapple Island for more beaches and views!

From pristine beaches and stunning landscapes to cultural attractions and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone on this beautiful island.

Final Thoughts on Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam

Each city has its unique charm and attractions, making Vietnam a great destination for a diverse range of experiences.

If I had to pick my two favorite cities to visit in Vietnam, I would pick Halong Bay and Hoi An. Both are so unique to the country of Vietnam and something you won’t get to experience anywhere else! Share your your favorite cities to visit in Vietnam in the comments below!

Want more? Read about my best travel tips and things you should know before you go to Vietnam .

Disclosure: Some of the links in this guide on best cities to visit in Vietnam are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps me keep the content on my website free, like this guide on the best Cities to Visit in Vietnam.

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11 of the best things to do with kids in Vietnam: everything you need to know

Aug 14, 2023 • 10 min read

From family beach days to hiking in the highlands, here are the best things to do with kids in Vietnam © Westend61 / Getty Images

With palm-framed beaches, magnificent markets, captivating cities and misty mountains enveloped by rice terraces and rainforests, Vietnam is certainly a great place for grown-ups. But how does it rank if you're traveling with kids? 

Well, a lot depends on where you go and how you get around. Traveling by train through the lowlands between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), it’s easy to have fabulous family adventures, stopping at many of Vietnam’s most spectacular sights. The beaches of central Vietnam and offshore escapes such as Phu Quoc also serve up bucketloads of family fun. 

Kids will have a harder time in the humid highlands, not least because of the car-sickness-inducing roads. Nevertheless, with a car and driver, all sorts of adventures become possible. And wherever you go, children will receive a warm welcome – here are our top tips for traveling to Vietnam as a family. 

Is Vietnam good for kids?

To answer in one word, a resounding yes. But good doesn’t always translate to easy. Vietnam’s fascinating cities, for example, have plenty to keep kids entertained, but you’ll have to balance this against alarming traffic, air pollution and the rapid onset of fatigue that comes with urban exploring.

With younger kids in your group, focus on more sedentary trips to the beach towns and islands. With older kids, you can push the envelope, dropping in historic cities and adventure activities on the water and inland in the hills. For all age groups, set aside several hours each day for relaxing – with the high humidity and summertime heat , wandering the streets can wear down even the most patient child.  

Where are the best spots in Vietnam for kids?

This depends on the age of your tiny travelers. Beach hubs such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc will work for most age groups. You’ll also get mileage from urban adventures in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and boat cruises around Halong Bay. For older kids and teens, the highlands around Sapa and Dalat offer lots of action, from trekking and canyoning to mountain biking and caving, while the central coast dishes out water sports galore.

Best things to do in Vietnam with babies and toddlers

With a baby or toddler in tow, heat and humidity will be your worst enemies. In summer, stick close to water – whether that means the beach or the hotel pool – and focus on seaside resorts and big cities, where the air-con is reliably frosty and baby essentials such as formula and nappies are easy to find. Remember, the north can be quite cool in the winter, so bring warm baby clothes. 

Play on the beach

A beach holiday is the obvious choice for babies and toddlers. Book into a resort and you can stop worrying about the crowds and traffic and concentrate on enjoying the warm weather and tropical mood. Phu Quoc is one dreamy choice, with excellent infrastructure, gorgeous beaches and resorts for all budgets. There are also toddler-friendly beach strips on the central coast between Danang and Nha Trang , but be cautious of currents.

Hang out in Hanoi or HCMC

Toddlers and babies may be too young to appreciate the irrepressible energy of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) , but with comfortable accommodation, easy-to-find AC, and shops selling everything you need to keep small travelers content, Vietnam’s twin megacities are very manageable stops for families. Use a sling or carrier to transport junior and make time for rickshaw tours and trips to see the water puppets and HCMC’s water parks.

Best things to do in Vietnam with younger kids

Once kids are old enough to walk and talk, travel in Vietnam gets a whole lot easier. You can gently dial up the adventure, bringing in boat trips, amusement parks and the odd historic sight and outdoor adventure, as well as days at the beach.

Meet gods and emperors in Hue

Vietnam’s former imperial capital is a great place to introduce kids to Vietnam’s lavish history. Exploring the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure feels like jumping back several centuries, and kids will enjoy Hue ’s pagodas and temples, with their colorful deity statues and ornate gateways. A boat ride along the Perfume River to the imperial tombs and the Thien Mu Pagoda is another rewarding family adventure.

Hit the markets

Vietnam’s markets are a riot of color – deeply interesting, highly atmospheric and full of trinkets that kids can pick up for pocket-money prices. Make every market visit a safari of sights, tastes and smells. Stop to breathe in the pong of a durian. Pick up food stall treats or fun tactile fruit such as lychees and rambutans. Visit religious stalls to browse for ornaments and charms. You’re guaranteed a memorable experience.

Spend time at Phu Quoc’s beaches and theme park

Phu Quoc is the destination with everything as far as families are concerned. Much energy is directed towards the beaches, but snorkeling and other watery activities add to the experience, and excursions into the rainforest are easy to arrange. Then there’s the Disney-inspired VinWonders theme park and the waterslides of Hon Thom Nature Park , reached via the world’s longest overwater cable car ride. With direct international flights, you don’t actually need to go anywhere else in Vietnam. 

Immerse yourself in history in Hoi An 

Travelers of all ages love Hoi An for its step-back-in-time magic. A family stay in a traditional merchants’ house will place you at the heart of the Hoi An story, while you explore museums, monuments and some supremely colorful temples (look for mosaic dragons on the rooftops). Take a tour by cyclo (rickshaw) to add extra atmosphere to exploring at street level. There are clean beaches within easy reach too – it’s less than 5km (3 miles) from the center to the shallow waters and fine sands of An Bang.

Best things to do in Vietnam with tweens and teens

On one level, older kids can be harder to keep happy in Vietnam – tropical fruit and temples can be poor compensation for a lack of same-age company. On the other hand, Vietnam is an amazing hub for outdoor adventures, and bonding over a trek through the hills or a kitesurfing course on the coast is a great way to bring the generations together.

Have adventures around the outcrops 

Halong Bay and its calmer neighbors Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay offer plenty to engage active teens. Head to Cat Ba Island and arrange a kayak tour, or just paddle along the beachfront in a rented kayak on Quan Lan Island or Co To Island in Bai Tu Long Bay. Halong Bay is also a popular base for rock climbing, with bolted routes on many of the karst outcrops (local tour operators can arrange climbing day trips and gear). 

Go kitesurfing at Mui Ne

If your teens love aquatic thrills, the beach strip at Mui Ne is Vietnam’s top hub for kitesurfing. There are several schools where you can learn as a family, with prime wind conditions in late October and April. Other watery diversions include sailing courses, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing classes and the mud spa and swimming pool complex on the hilltop. For teens who prefer pampering, there are plenty more spas along the beach strip. 

Enjoy the beach scene in Nha Trang 

Nha Trang is perhaps the best beach town in Vietnam for teens. The sand is just the start of the seaside fun – fill days with dive and snorkeling trips, boat tours, bathing in hot springs and natural mud baths and surfing sessions just south of Nha Trang at Bai Dai beach. Then there’s VinWonders , a boisterous complex of waterslides and rides (including a giant Ferris wheel) on Hon Tre island, a short boat ride across the bay. 

Make a splash in Dalat 

A few hours inland from Nha Trang, the atmospheric former French hill station of Dalat promises cooler temperatures, hill views, and an impressive menu of adventure activities, from canyoning and trekking to mountain bike trails. During the rainy season from April to September, this is  Vietnam’s favorite base for white-water rafting. In between adventure tours, take time to splash in a local waterfall – Datanla Falls comes with a bonus bobsled ride, and you can duck behind a wall of sloshing water at Elephant Falls.

Take a trek in the hills

The hill town of Sapa is Vietnam's most famous trekking base , and there’s plenty of fun to be had in the surrounding hills, though peace and tranquility can be elusive. Trekking routes fan out from town to a string of minority villages, taking in grand views along the way – for a big family adventure, try the overnight hike up 3143m (10,311ft) Mt Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest peak (or take the easy way up by cable car).

Planning tips

Many families give Vietnam bonus points for its food – while dishes may be unfamiliar, they’re rarely spicy (heat is usually added separately in the form of chili sauces). Crispy Vietnamese pancakes, banh mi sandwiches, bowls of pho (noodle soup), fried spring rolls and bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles) usually go down well.

International favorites such as pizzas and pasta are easily available for tots who turn their noses up at things they haven’t tried before. Then there’s Vietnam’s fabulous catalog of tropical fruit and fruit smoothies – every day you’ll find new textures and flavors to sample. 

Eating out as a family is generally easy – tourist-oriented restaurants can often provide high chairs or a cushion to boost tots up to table height. Families eat together everywhere, so there’s no need to worry about the kids being noisy during dinner. Use antibacterial hand gel to ward off tummy bugs.

Baby supplies are available in major cities, but supplies of formula and nappies dry up quickly in the countryside – stock up in the cities or bring plenty from home. Cots are available in most midrange and top-end hotels, and even budget places can set up an extra bed to turn a double into a family room. Away from the beach, pick a hotel with a pool to beat the sticky heat. 

Transport is trickier. Child seats are hard to find, so bring one from home and use it, even for the shortest taxi journey – with so many cars, trucks and motorcycles competing for space on the roads, accidents are common. Trains are more fun for families than buses, and the Reunification Express line between Hanoi and HCMC stops at many of Vietnam’s favorite destinations.

If you head to highlands, renting a car and driver is the way to go. Keep journeys short and watch for motion sickness on winding mountain roads. River boat rides in the Mekong Delta and trips to offshore islands can be a blast for kids but insist on life vests for all family members if you arrange a boat tour, or stick to the cruise-ship-like junks that cruise around scenic Halong Bay.   

Navigating Vietnam’s busy streets and pavements is easier with a sling or carrier than with a buggy. A backpack carrier with a sun shield will give toddlers an elevated vantage point and some precious personal space. If you use a baby sling or chest-mounted carrier, bring an umbrella to use as a parasol. Portable hand fans are also a worthwhile investment. When walking with kids, keep them close and take extra care crossing the roads. 

Remember to plan for the weather. The summer heat and humidity can sap energy, and the heavy rain brought in by the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to April can put a dampener on family fun. All this moisture is heaven for mosquitoes – use repellent with a high concentration of DEET (diethyltoluamide), and minimize exposed skin. 

When the sun shines, it can be fierce. Bring high-factor sunscreen from home as it’s not widely available in Vietnam. Consider bringing a sunsafe suit or rash-vest to fight off the rays on the beach. Watch youngsters carefully in the water – rip tides can be a problem in some spots, and some families prefer to stick to resort beaches with lifeguards.

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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.

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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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15 Ridiculously Amazing Places to Visit in Vietnam

by Julie Jun 7, 2020 Travel , Vietnam

Are you trying to decide where to go in Vietnam?

You’ve probably heard of the usual places like Saigon, Hanoi, and Halong Bay. But you’re not sure where else to visit after the big three.

In this blog post, I’m going to share with you the 15 best places to visit in Vietnam.

So grab that cup of tea (or coffee) and let’s get started!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate and a Bookshop.org Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Please see this website's  Disclosure for more info.

1. Hanoi (2 – 3 Days)

My favorite place to visit in Vietnam is Hanoi . In my opinion, it is one of the top 5 cities to visit in Asia. It’s got a bit of European charm mixed with Vietnamese energy and culture. It’s got some of the best food in Asia as well. One bite and you’ll turn into a Vietnamese food fanatic. I’m serious!

When in Hanoi, you MUST join a food tour . This is the best way to really discover ALL that Hanoi has to offer when it comes to food. The dishes you’ll try won’t be the typical ones that you get in Vietnamese restaurants in your home country (those are owned usually by Southern Vietnamese).

Once you’ve tasted the local cuisine, walk around and explore the old quarter of the city with its narrow winding lanes. Here you’ll find some incredible architectural gems from the French colonial period.

Then mix up the rest of your visit with some traditional history by visiting the Temple of Literature and some communist history by touring Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum and the Hoa Lo Prison (a.k.a Hanoi Hilton) .

Finally, in the evening attend a water puppet show at the Municipal Water Puppet Theater and find somewhere to drink bia hoi (fresh draught beer)  before it sells out.

To find out how to do all of these fabulous things and more, visit my travel and itinerary guide to Hanoi .

PRO TIP: No one likes to think about insurance, but accidents do happen. I highly recommend getting travel insurance. During my travels over the past 2 years, I've been using SafetyWing for my insurance. They're very affordable for all ages, and digital nomads can use their insurance long-term.

2. Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay (3 Days)

You cannot leave Vietnam without taking part in a cruise of Halong Bay, the less touristy Lan Ha Bay, or both. The photos of these limestone karst-filled bays are deservedly iconic. You can visit the bay by taking a 2-day / 1-night cruise or a 3-day / 2-night cruise .  Most cruises involve kayaking, visiting a cave, eating, and just cruising around. You can book your cruise with Booking.com or Agoda before your trip or book once you get to Hanoi .

I went with a 3-day / 2-night cruise with Signature Cruises and got to do both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay . On the first day and a half, we went to the crowded Halong Bay. Then those who had chosen the 2-day 1-night cruise got off the boat, and our boat visited Lan Ha Bay, where we saw only ONE other boat the whole time we were cruising.

Halong Bay is definitely one of the best destinations in Vietnam.

3. Hoi An (2 – 3 Days)

The third must-see place to visit in Vietnam is Hoi An . If you only have time for one week in Vietnam, add this charming city to your itinerary.

Until the river leading into the city silted up, Hoi An was a major trading port, attracting merchants from all over the world. This environmental disaster kept Hoi An from “modernizing,” thus saving the city’s traditional architecture . Luckily, the city’s buildings did not become collateral damage during the American-Vietnam War.

Today most visitors to Hoi An spend their time walking around and admiring the traditional buildings of the old town . Most get an outfit or two or three or four made by one of the many tailors in the city.

The cuisine of central Vietnam is also as delicious as that of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City . Like Hanoi, Hoi An has many wonderful restaurants where you can try many dishes that you’ll never see on a menu in your home country.

I highly recommend taking part in a cooking class that involves a market tour. Book early!

Looking for more info on Hoi An? Check out this detailed Hoi An itinerary .

RELATED POST: 12 Simple Tips to Avoid Getting Sick in Southeast Asia

4. Hue (2 Days)

Hue is the perfect destination in Vietnam for both foodies and history buffs. I still dream about the food I had in Hue—foods I’d never had before like banana blossoms or pomelo in a salad.

Hue has played an important part in Vietnamese history. It used to be the capital of Imperial Vietnam . So you’ll find palaces, temples, and pagodas around Hue. Sadly, the city was also the site of a devastating battle during the Vietnam War, resulting in the loss of many of its historic buildings.

My favorite experience (or second favorite after the food) happened outside of Hue on a tour of the Demilitarized Zone (the DMZ) , the line that separated North and South Vietnam during the America-Vietnam War. You can take a tour to some of the famous battle sites and to the underground tunnels of the North Vietnamese.

In order for the tour to be worthwhile, it’s a good idea to do some reading up on the war. You can check out my list of books on Vietnam here to get some ideas on what to read. It’ll help you understand what you’re looking at and it’ll make the tour more meaningful. Also, you need a good tour guide. I think part of the reason why I enjoyed my tour so much was that the guide was amazing—informative and passionate about the history of the war.

Check out my Hue itinerary to find how to see all these historic sights.

SAFETY TIPS: Don't travel anywhere without bringing these essential items with you to keep you safe and secure:

Combination lock - You MUST bring a combination lock with you if you're staying in hostels. Hostels provide lockers and you provide the lock.

Money belt - Even though these are not the most comfortable things to wear, a money belt is essential. I've tried both these traditional travel belts and ones that runners use .

Anti-Theft Purse  -  Travel-on Anti-theft purses are great because they're made of a material that's difficult for thieves to slash. They've got lots of pockets as well and a way to lock the zippers.

5. Sapa (4 Days)

Another must-visit place in Vietnam is the old French hill station of Sapa, located near the Chinese border. Even though getting there takes twelve hours by bus, try really really hard to add Sapa to your Vietnam itinerary. Just seeing the terraced rice fields along with the mountains and plunging valleys is an experience that you won’t forget . For those who like to get out in nature and do some hiking, this is the perfect destination.

Most people do a trek through the valleys and rice terraces. The hike involves stops in different villages and an overnight stay with a local hill tribe family.

One not-to-miss hike is the one through the scenic Muong Hoa Valley . Along the way, you’ll see stone paintings that are over 3,000 years old.

One of the most challenging hikes you can do is to Fansipan Mountain .

You can also visit the local markets where the hill tribes sell their handicrafts and fresh produce.

Add a few days to your itinerary with a visit to Bac Ha .

Sapa is definitely one of the most unforgettable places to visit in Vietnam.

6. Ho Chi Minh City (2 – 3 Days)

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is a typical bustling and noisy Southeast Asian City—taxi drivers that wouldn’t blink an eye if they were cheating you out of your last dime, pollution that takes several years off your life, and traffic that seems to live by its own set of rules. However, HCMC is such an important city historically that it should not be skipped on any tour of Vietnam. Plus, the food is damn good !

Ho Chi Minh City was the capital of South Vietnam, so there are a number of museums and historical landmarks covering this period.

• War Remnants Museum – highlights the atrocities committed by the American military during the war between the North and the South.
• Reunification Palace – the home of the South Vietnamese government. Visiting it feels really surreal, It’s as if you’re stepping back in time to the 1960s.
• Cu Chi Tunnels – the Viet Cong used the tunnels to infiltrate the South and to launch attacks on the American and South Vietnamese troops.

For architecture lovers, stop by Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office .

And whatever you do, don’t leave Saigon without eating pho , a dish that I think the South beats the North by a mile

To make your travels to Saigon more meaningful, I highly suggest reading up on Vietnam’s history. You can find a list of both fiction and nonfiction books here .

You can read how to see all these amazing places in Ho Chi Minh City in my detailed itinerary.

7. Phu Quoc (3 – 5 Days)

Although Vietnam’s a great country to visit, it’s also so different and so chaotic from most travelers’ own country that it’s easy to get sensory overload. You start to feel like you need a vacation from your vacation.

The perfect place in Vietnam to destress is the island of Phu Quoc. It has all that you need—white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, super fresh and healthy food, and a laidback atmosphere.

And travelers of any budget level can find somewhere to stay . The island has some great boutique hotels with bungalows on the beach and some great hostels for backpackers to chill out at.

There’s not much to do on Phu Quoc. And that is NOT a bad thing AT ALL. Basically, you can spend your days as you would on any other island paradise:  snorkeling and diving, kayaking around the island, lying on a beach, getting a massage, or chowing down on some fresh tropical fruit and seafood .

The best way to get to Phu Quoc is by plane from any major city in Vietnam. If you’ve got plenty of time but not plenty of money, you can also get there by bus and then boat from Ha Tien.

Phu Quoc is definitely one of the best beach destinations in Vietnam.

8. Phong Nha-Ke Bang (3 Days)

After you’ve gone to the above places ( Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi , Halong Bay, etc), try to squeeze in a stop at Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park.

I had such a fabulous time here riding my bike through the Vietnamese countryside and spelunking through some of the most amazing and bizarre caves I’d ever seen.

Phong Nha Ke Bang is located in the northern half of Vietnam (but south of Hanoi) near the town of Son Trach. The area is famous for its caves including the largest cave in the world , Hang Son Doong (in order to tour it, you need to pay thousands of dollars).

Usually, people visit the caves (Paradise Cave) on an organized tour. There is one cave (name unknown) that is completely filled with mud that goes up to your chest. An added bonus is that you get to it by zipline. It’s the most amazing and bizarre experience I’ve ever had. You can also go on jungle hikes, boat rides,  or bike rides through the countryside .

Phong Nha-Ke Bang is definitely one of the best places in Vietnam for those who love adventure!

PRO TIP: The best time to visit  Vietnam is not an easy question to answer because it depends on what part of the country you’re visiting. In the South , the weather is best from November to February. In central Vietnam , it’s from March to September . And in the North , the weather will be best from March to May and September to November . (Lonely Planet, 2019)

9. Mekong Delta (1 – 3 Days)

The Mekong River begins somewhere in Tibet and winds its way down through China, Thailand, Cambodia before it gets to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam. There it branches off into distributaries, eventually emptying into the South China Sea.

Travelers often visit the Delta through day tours from Ho Chi Minh City. But I recommend staying overnight in a rural homestay along one of the canals, instead. The Mekong Delta is a great place to relax in a hammock along a riverbank , float down one of the numerous canals, visit a floating market, or bike ride along the back roads of this flat, bike-friendly region

The Mekong Delta has a number of towns that make for good places to visit on a day trip or to use as a base to explore the area. One town, Vinh Long , is an excellent base to explore the floating markets and islands of the Delta and to stay in a rural homestay along the river.

Another popular town is My Tho . It’s got a pleasant riverfront. You’ll also canals filled with islands.

Nearby is Phoenix Island, the home of the Coconut Monk.

But probably my favorite town in the Mekong Delta is bustling Can Tho .  Here you can take a boat ride down one of the canals to a really cool floating market.

The Mekong Delta is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for those who want to explore the culture of southern Vietnam more deeply but also get away from the chaos of Saigon.

PRO TIP: Download these apps onto your phone for your trip to any country in Asia. They will make your life so much easier!

• Grab: - Grab is the ride-sharing service that people use in Southeast Asia. It's a must-have for getting around Manila, Hanoi, Singapore etc. It's not so necessary on the smaller islands.
• Klook - Klook is a tour-booking website used by lots of travelers in Asia. You're more likely to book with an honest tour company through Klook than through anyone else.
• WhatsApp : What's App is the best service to use for getting in touch with other travelers, tour guides, and businesses in the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, etc.
• Booking.com: I think Booking.com is the best website to use for booking accommodations in Asia.
• MAPS.ME & Google Maps: I have both of these apps on my phone. Sometimes MAPS.ME works better than Google Maps and vice versa. Make sure to download your maps to your phone before you start your adventure so you can view them offline. If you switch SIM cards, you might lose your downloaded maps.

10. Danang / Da Nang (2 Days)

Danang has become more popular with tourists recently thanks to the construction in 2018 of the Sun Bridge at Ba Na Hills . I don’t know about you, but I’ve seen so many pictures of this on Instagram that I’m beginning to think that this is the most popular tourist attraction in all of Vietnam.

But there are more things to do in Danang than just the bridge. It’s got some great beaches, ancient Cham ruins, and mountains with great views nearby .

Danang is located on the central coast of Vietnam and is about one hour by bus from Hoi An .

Except for a museum that has a large collection of Cham artifacts and the light show at  Dragon Bridge , most of Danang’s attractions are outside the city.

First, climb Ba Na Hills for the views of the surrounding area and for the Sun Bridge .

Next, visit Marble Mountain , five limestone mountains, where you can find pagodas, caves, and some Buddhist and Cham carvings.

Monkey Mountain is another popular spot to go for spectacular views of the area.

For history lovers, head outside of the city to the Cham ruins of My Son .

Finally, if beaches are your thing, head to  Non Nuoc Beach  or  China Beach .

Danang is definitely one of the most jam-packed places to visit in Vietnam.

11. Ha Giang Province (4 – 5 Days)

Located in northern Vietnam near the Chinese border, Ha Giang Province is the ideal destination for the truly adventurous traveler . Unlike its more well-known neighbor Sapa, Ha Giang is harder to get to and harder to get around without your own wheels or a private tour.  BUT if you have the time, it’s well worth it. It’s a very mountainous area filled with picturesque rice fields, windy cliff-hugging roads, and remote hill tribe villages.

Start your travels in the city of Ha Giang .

Then make your way to Dong Van . Along the way, stop at Quan Ba Pass to view the spectacular and dramatic Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark . Dong Van is a great place to chill out for one or two days. Explore the old quarter, visit the old French fort and the Vuong Palace, and if you’re there on a Sunday, the Sunday Market.

Finally, make your way to Meo Vac along the steep and windy Ma Pi Leng Pass, where you can see a river cutting its way through the valley far below.

Ha Giang is one of the best places in Vietnam to visit for those who really want to get off-the-beaten path.

RELATED POST: 25 of the Best (and Worst) Books on Vietnam

12. Ninh Binh (2 – 3 Days)

Number twelve on my list of best places to visit in Vietnam is Ninh Binh. It sort of reminds me of Halong Bay but on land. You’ll find a countryside of rice paddies with islands of limestone mountains and a winding river cutting through all of it.

Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for those who are looking for a place to chill out, take photos, and go on a leisurely bike ride . AND it’s just a short distance from Hanoi .

The best thing to do when you’re in Ninh Binh is to leave Ninh Binh. Instead, find a homestay or guesthouse in the countryside outside of the industrial town.

Then grab a bike and just travel around the countryside stopping off at the various temples and sights all while taking in the view.

Another unforgettable thing to do is to climb up the stairs to Hang Mua Peak for drop-dead gorgeous views of the river slicing its way through the rice fields and limestone mountains.

You can also take a cruise to the overly touristy, Trang An Grottoes .

Ninh Binh is an easy addition to any Vietnam itinerary.

13. Dalat / Da Lat (2 – 3 Days)

Dalat is the perfect destination for those who are tired of the sweltering heat of Vietnam . It’s located at an elevation of 1,502 meters (4,928 ft) above sea level, so temperatures are a spring-like 14 to 23 degrees Celsius (57-73 degrees Fahrenheit) all year round.

Dalat is a young city having been created by the French in 1890 as a resort town. Fortunately, during the war, the North and South Vietnamese governments agreed to leave the hilltown alone. As a result, you’ll find a French Quarter with a lot of French villas and old pagodas . Even the Emperor’s Summer Palace is still intact.

Dalat is also known for its waterfalls and lakes.

It’s about seven to eight hours by bus from Ho Chi Minh City .

What should you see in Dalat?

In the city, the most popular tourist sights are the Gaudi-like Hang Nga Crazy House , Emperor Bao Dai’s Summer Palace , and the colonial villas in the French Quarter.

Outside of Dalat, the best religious structure is the Truc Lam Pagoda . Two other popular destinations are Datanla and Elephant Falls.  You can also join tours of the countryside, go canyoneering, hiking, and kayaking.

Dalat is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for those who love history and nature.

14. Ba Be National Park (3 Days)

Another beautiful place to visit in Vietnam is Ba Be National Park. Located about six hours from Hanoi (change buses), the park is another destination in Vietnam with great scenery, lots of trekking opportunities, and interesting minority villages . At the center of the park are three lakes (Ba Be) that are surrounded by limestone mountain s and dense rainforests . Like other areas of Vietnam, you’ll find your supply of waterfalls, caves, and pagodas.

Your first order of business when getting to Ba Be is to make sure you’re staying in a homestay in one of the villages along the lake. The most popular village is Pac Ngoi , but you can also stay at Coc Toc and Bo Lu .

Then see Mr. Linh, a local travel agent who organizes tours around northern Vietnam, about organizing a multi-day trek around the area.

Most people take a boat ride around the lakes visiting An Ma Pagoda , Puong Cave , and Ao Tien Lagoon . Make sure to check out Hua Ma Cave and Dau Dang Waterfall as well.

Ba Be is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities and tourist-saturated destinations.

15. Con Dao Islands (3 – 5 Days)

The best thing about Con Dao Islands is that they’re so remote (located off the southern coast of Vietnam) that they don’t get so many tourists like Phu Quoc. This means that the sandy beaches and heavily forested interior are uncrowded and undeveloped.

Most of the 16 Con Dao Islands are part of the Con Dao National Park, so the waters around the island are protected . This keeps the waters around the island crystal clear and the coral reefs healthy, thus making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving .

You can fly into Con Dao from Ho Chi Minh City or take a ferry from the mainland.

The island is also a worthwhile destination for history buffs as these islands were home to Vietnam’s most notorious political prisons under the French and Americans. There were eleven prisons here, but the three most important sights you should visit are Phu Hai Prison , t he Tiger Cages , and Hong Duang Cemetery .

Other popular experiences include going on turtle-watching tours , hiking to Bamboo Lagoon or Ong Dung Bay , and diving around the waters of the Con Dao Islands.

Con Son Town with its renovated French villas is also a pleasant place to explore.

Con Dao is one of the best places in Vietnam to visit for those who need a beach but also something off-the-beaten-path.

Final Thoughts

There you go! Those were my 15 favorite destinations in Vietnam. If you’re looking to fill your itinerary for Vietnam, these 15 are great options.

You may be wondering why I haven’t included Nha Trang or Mui Ne in this list. It’s because I was only in Nha Trang for a couple of hours. For Mui Ne, I really disliked my time there.

Now where to next?

Once you’ve toured Vietnam, the next easiest destinations are Cambodia and Laos . Both border Vietnam so you can get to them by bus. Both Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat in Siem Reap are ideal destinations for history lovers. Koh Rong Sanloem is an excellent beach destination. You can check out my guide to Cambodia here.

If you have any questions or comments on traveling in Vietnam, please feel free to leave one in the comment section below.

Thanks for visiting the Bamboo Traveler! ♥

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10 Comments

I read a lot about Vietnam, but have never been there. Photos are very inspiring. Thanks for sharing! I look forward to the time when we can again travel freely!

Thank you! I also look forward to getting back to a time when we can travel. I hope you get a chance to get to Vietnam. It’s an amazing country.

I enjoyed reading your post! I’m planning to go to Vietnam this year, but it got postponed. After reading your post, I’m glad it got cancelled. Now I can better prepare for my Vietnam trip! This is super helpful that I listed down 3-5 more places I’d like to see. I’ll definitely pin this and bookmark it for future reference.

Thank you! I’m glad this has helped you!

I have been to Vietnam twice before and this immediately took me back to some of my favorite memories in SE Asia. There are a few on the list of places I didn’t get a chance to visit which is perfect inspiration for the next time I’m there! Thanks for sharing some great tips!!

Thank you! I hope you get back there someday!

I haven’t made it to Vietnam yet, but found your article when looking to start planning my trip there. Thank you so much for all this helpful information. I had no idea about Sapa, and am excited to look into that further. Looks incredible!

Welcome to Vietnam! Can contact us in case you want to book tour to some of the most famous travel spots from the historic and hectic Hanoi to the easygoing coastal town of Hoi An and the bustling hub of Ho Chi Minh City, with unique and local experience you will not find elsewhere. Check out our services and find the most suitable trip for you: https://portal.netblitz.app/portal/bestpricetravel Wish you an amazing trip in Vietnam 🙂

This is such an amazing post. It always feels like in order to find a really cool place to travel to you have to go out of the country and this post definitely opened up my eyes! Love this post so much.

Thank you! I’m glad you like it! I hope make it to Vietnam soon.

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11 Reasons Why Vietnam is Worth Visiting at Least Once

Vietnam is a country of opposites and contradictions. A melting pot of influences where the ancient sits side by side with the ultra-modern. A place where tumultuous history is not hidden or glossed over but displayed honestly for visitors to see. A country unlike any other, Vietnam is definitely worth visiting. 

A trip to Vietnam is an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture, sublime natural beauty, unique sights, strange flavors, and more adventures than you could possibly have in one trip. 

With bustling cities, 3000 km of coastline, 8 UNESCO world heritage sites , and some of the best food in the world, we’ll be surprised if you can’t find something to love about Vietnam. Here’s our list of the 11 top reasons why Vietnam is worth visiting at least once. 

Table of Contents

Vietnam is a country steeped in history with turbulent events in both its recent and ancient past. Lingering relics of the last royal dynasty rub shoulders with remnants of French Colonial rule which in turn are scarred by the effects of the Vietnam war. Layers of complex history make up the fabric of Vietnam, and a trip to the country is a chance to experience its richness. 

Tour the prison built during French rule to house Vietnamese rebels on the remote Con Dao Islands. Wander the desolate landscape around the abandoned ruins of the My Son Cham Hindu temples. Take a visit to UNESCO protected Hue, to see the country’s ancient capital and seat of the last Vietnamese dynasty. Wander through the once magnificent Imperial City now damaged by the fighting of modern wars. 

Visit The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City for an illuminating Vietnamese perspective of the Vietnam war. For a sobering account of the gruesome treatment of prisoners of war, visit Hoa Lo Prison nicknamed  The Hanoi Hilton  by the American soldiers imprisoned there .  Squeeze through the Cu Chi Tunnels for an incredible, claustrophobic glimpse of the resilience of the Viet Cong soldiers who used them. 

For more nuanced insight into this richly layered country, look out for the street sellers flogging bootleg books. They have stacks of autobiographies and literature about Vietnam’s history and its people. 

Cosmopolitan, bustling, and bursting with life, Ho Chi Minh City is an absolute must-see for any visitor to Vietnam. With its eclectic mix of all things old and new, its mixture of cultures, and frenetic pace, Ho Chi Minh is a wild introduction to all things Vietnamese . It’s worth visiting just to try and cross one of the dizzying, scooter-filled main roads. Pro tip: Check for large vehicles like buses and trucks, then walk calmly across. Don’t run and don’t stop for scooters! They are more used to this than you and will dodge easily around you. 

If you like your cities a little calmer but no less impressive, head to Hanoi in the North and soak up its timeless charm. Steeped in history, the country’s capital cannot fail to impress with its beautiful tree-lined streets filled with French colonial buildings alongside temples and pagodas. Visit the abundance of museums, galleries, cultural sites, and attractions. Save some energy for when the sun goes down. It may not get as wild as Ho Chi Minh but Hanoi has its fair share of nightlife.

If you want quieter still, visit ancient, well-preserved Hoi An with its UNESCO heritage status. Glimpse what life looked like in the 15th century, trading port as you wander the tiny pedestrian streets and canals. Stick around after dark to see the town lit up by colorful lanterns instead of street lights. 

Find a city for every mood in Vietnam. Riverside Hue with its imperial history, remote Dalat for a romantic getaway. Coastal Da Nang combines city life with a beach resort. Whatever your city vibe, Vietnam has got you covered.

Beaches and Islands

Vietnam doesn’t have a big reputation as a beach destination and it is often unfairly overlooked in favor of Thailand. But with 3000 km of coastline and over forty islands to choose from, travelers are beginning to wise up to the fact that Vietnam is well worth visiting for its beaches. 

You don’t even need to travel far to sample them. Two of the best ones are attached to major cities! Both Nha Trang and Da Nang cities have beautiful, endless stretches of beach that run alongside their cities’ promenades and offer every amenity you could wish for. Travel a little way along the coast from either city to discover quieter, less famous coves. 

For an island getaway, head to Hoi An and visit the beautiful Cua Dai beach (worth a visit in its own right) and from there take a short boat trip to the Cham Islands. These eight islands boast sparkling azure waters, white sand beaches, an abundance of local seafood, and accommodation options from backpacker hostels to romantic resorts. 

Or head south and sail over to the Con Dao islands. These remote islands were once used as a prison. But these days they’re becoming known for their isolated beauty and as a breeding ground for sea turtles. 

Is there any better reason to visit Vietnam than the food? We don’t think so. Deceptively simple but packed with complex flavors, Vietnamese food is simply some of the best in the world. Distinctly different from all other cuisines due to the fusion of influences drawn from France, China, and South Asia. Fresh, healthy, delicious, and with a tiny price tag, it’s worth visiting Vietnam for the food alone.

For an example of the simple complexity of Vietnamese food look no further than the always abundant  Pho . This clear broth with noodles, meat, and herbs, looks pretty plain but one sip will teach you just how many layers of flavor the Vietnamese can pack into their food. Every region and restaurant swears by a slightly different broth recipe , meaning that no two bowls of pho are ever quite the same. All the more reason to eat it over and over again!

Leave room for dessert though. With cakes, jellies, sweet soups, sticky rice, and donuts on offer Vietnam leads South East Asia on the dessert front.

As one of the world’s biggest Coffee exporters, Vietnam takes its beans seriously. You’ll find the French influence at work here again in the cafe culture that pervades the country. 

The majority of coffee drunk in Vietnam is Robusta, a bean known for its high caffeine content so don’t be surprised if you get the jitters after a few cups! It’s brewed individually, your coffee will probably come with a single-cup filter placed on top. Take your time to sit and relax as the water is allowed to drip slowly through the grains, gaining the full flavor. Robusta can be bitter, so is often served with sweetened condensed milk to lighten the flavor. The result is a short, strong, sweet drink with an energy kick guaranteed to start your day right. 

Try the iced version  Ca Phe Da  later in the day when the temperature starts rising. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try  Ca Phe Trung  or Vietnamese Egg Coffee. Egg yolk is beaten into a light sweet foam with condensed milk and served atop hot or iced coffee. It might sound like a recipe for disaster but the result is rich, creamy, and unlike anything you’ve ever had before. It should absolutely be on your to-taste list!

Architecture

As with its history, Vietnam’s architectural wonders come from all its different eras. Visit the old in Hue where you can see how the Imperial Palace was built to Feng Shui principles, complementing the natural landscape around it. Look out for the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tomb of Khai Dinh built with a skillful blend of European and Vietnamese styles. Visit the ancient Japanese Covered bridge in Hoi An and the elegant pagodas of Vinh Trang temple. 

In Hanoi enjoy the juxtaposition of old Vietnamese shopfronts pressed up against regal French Colonial creations like the Opera House and the Neo-Gothic wonder that is Saint Joseph’s Cathedral. Then, in Ho Chi Minh enjoy how similar colonial buildings like Saigon City Hall, the Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral, compare next to ultra-modern steel and glass skyscrapers like the Bitexco Financial Tower.

Spanning the hills near Da Nang, you’ll find the eerily splendid Golden Hands Bridge. And in the city, you’ll find the modern wonder of the neon-lit Dragon Bridge, proof that as Vietnam evolves it continues to create new monuments to its culture, people, and imagination. 

Natural Scenery

It’s not all man-made charms, Vietnam has far more than its fair share of natural wonders and they’re all worth visiting. There are stunning beaches and remote islands aplenty but it’s the incredible scenery of Ha Long Bay that most tourists crave to see. Boat tours can be taken around this bay famous for its stunning green waters and the many towers of limestone that loom out of the water.

Elsewhere, visit the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Or take a stroll around the base of the imposing Marble Mountains. Visit Sapa in the North to hike through terraced paddy fields above misty valleys. Visit remote hill tribes and climb the highest mountain in Vietnam, Fansipan or  ‘the roof of Indochina.  

Take an exhilarating motorbike tour along the Hai Van Pass, the steepest pass in Central Vietnam. Marvel at the views and rolling sea mists that make this journey one of the best coastal routes in the world. Visit the tiny southern fishing village of Mui Ne to explore the surreally beautiful sand dune landscape nearby.

And don’t leave without seeing the Mekong Delta. A unique ecosystem of rivers, tributaries, swampland, and islets that have spawned their own culture and lifestyle. The delta is best explored by boat for a chance to see old Kymer towns and pagodas, fishing villages, floating markets, paddy fields, protected wetlands, and wildlife. 

This natural abundance is not just beautiful to look at but has created an incredible adventure playground. Any adrenaline sport you can think of can be done somewhere in this diverse and beautiful country. 

Snorkel or scuba dive with turtles off the Con Dao islands. Surf off the beaches of Da Nang. Kayak around stunning Ha Long Bay or down The Perfume River. Hike, slide, or 4-wheel drive your way down massive sand dunes or rise above them in a hot air balloon. Climb up to the very tops of the forests before zip-lining back down. 

Rock climbing, mountain biking, river rafting, windsurfing, sky diving…. if you’re a thrill-seeker, Vietnam is definitely worth visiting for its abundance of adrenaline-fueled activities. 

One of the biggest draws of Vietnam has long been its low prices. Although South East Asia is no longer as cheap as it once was, Vietnam lags behind neighboring Thailand when it comes to inflation. A holiday here can still be done without breaking or even bending the bank. 

Budget accommodation is widely available, and budget transport is likewise. Internal flights are inexpensive and the rivalry between bus and train companies keeps public transport reasonable. Book overnight trains and buses if you’re traveling long distances and save yourself a night’s accommodation. 

The cost of eating and drinking in Vietnam is as low as you wish to make it. For a cheap night out take part in the uniquely Vietnamese tradition of  Bia Hoi . Most common in the north, Bia Hoi happens each afternoon from around 4 pm. Locals and tourists alike gather at popup pavement bars to sit on tiny plastic stools, drink extremely cheap, just-brewed beer, and chat about their days. It’s a very pleasant way to spend an evening and this being Vietnam, food is never far away. Vietnamese street food is not only delicious but served at a fraction of restaurant prices. Enjoy a few street beers and roadside meals to make your Vietnamese experience not only fun, authentic, and tasty but extremely easy on the wallet. 

Vietnam has long embraced tourism as necessary to its economy and consequently welcomes visitors with open arms. The people are friendly, helpful, and happy to chat with tourists. The tourist route is well tracked so you’ll find transport and accommodation easily at all the tourist top spots. You’ll also find no shortage of guides willing to advise you on the best trips, attractions, and adventures, and plenty of travel agents to help you book onward travel. Vietnam is ideally located to be a base for further adventures. Trips from Vietnam to Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and China are very common and easy to book.

English is widely spoken especially in touristy areas by tour guides, travel agents, and people working in restaurants and hotels. Any attempt to speak Vietnamese is always appreciated however so don’t be afraid to have a go!

Part of what makes Vietnam so worth visiting is the fact that there is something for everyone. Bustling cities, beautiful beaches, remote villages, mountains, jungles, rivers, and resorts. It is geographically diverse in every way possible and from north to south of this long thin country no two things stay the same. Climate, landscapes, recipes, dialects, influences, and even caffeine habits change from one end of the country to the other. Explore the entire country to feel like you’ve seen many different lands. 

Or find the one spot that’s perfect for you. Whether you want to visit ruins and tombs or lie on a beach and sip cocktails. If you’re an urban explorer with a penchant for nightlife, or a mountain climber craving remote peaks. Vietnam has got the location for you. Foodies, shoppers, romantics, adventurers, sunbathers, cafe dawdlers, party animals, history buffs, and culture hounds will all find something to satisfy them in this amazingly diverse country. 

Is Vietnam expensive to visit?

No, Vietnam is a budget-friendly country. There is a range of shoestring accommodation and travel options to be had and food and drink costs are very low. 

What is so special about Vietnam?

Everything! The food, the people, the history, the climate, the culture, the natural beauty! Vietnam is full of wonders and definitely worth visiting. 

Is Vietnam friendly to foreigners?

Yes, Vietnamese people are friendly and welcoming and the country fully embraces tourism. It’s a safe country with few dangers to worry about. So long as you use your common sense and don’t take any risks that you wouldn’t take in your own country, you should have nothing to worry about. 

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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30 Things To Know Before Going To Vietnam

Want to find out the things to know before visiting Vietnam ? It is one of the most popular countries in SE Asia visited by the backpackers across the world, but it still isn’t the country that people go visiting back like its neighbor  Thailand , which converts many of its visitors to permanent fans that end up going there back and forth. While Vietnam clicks with most people, it’s a shame that still many aren’t aware how gorgeous this country is! Maybe they didn’t know a few things or they hadn’t prepared or planned well. Whatever the reason is, knowing a few things before will give you an idea of what to expect in Vietnam, making you like and enjoy it when you visit. So go ahead and check out these things to know before going to Vietnam.

Here are the things to know before going to Vietnam

1. visa is easy, but come prepared.

Vietnam is easy in providing Visas, and it has different rules for different countries. If you have an Indian passport, you can either get the visa on arrival or get an eVisa. Similarly, nationals of more than 30+ countries are eligible for a visa on arrival. I have written a detailed post on how to get a Vietnam Visa with an Indian passport . The post has the link to the website that lists all other country details for Visa.

Also, if you have the UK or the US passport, you could travel in Vietnam for the first 15 days for free, post which you’ll have to visit the embassy to get renewed if you think of extending your trip. Similarly, there are no multiple entries allowed and in case you travel to other countries like Cambodia or Thailand and wish to come back, you’ll have to have the visa ready.

I met many travelers from Europe and the US who had a tough time going back and forth to the embassies to get their visa renewed – one of the many things when this is your first time in Vietnam. So no matter what your nationality is, sort out your visa before you arrive in Vietnam.

Recommended read: Solo travel in Vie tnam – What to expect and how to plan your trip?

2. Don’t let the size of the country fool you

One of the things not to do in Vietnam is to underestimate the size of this country. It might look like a thin strip of land next to the sea on a map, but did you know that the length of the country from the north to the south is more than 1800km at least? And it takes more than 36 hours to travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh ! Now you get an idea of Vietnam’s size, right?

3. Have a rough itinerary in mind

Since you shouldn’t take Vietnam for a little country, having a rough itinerary for your Vietnam trip surely goes a long way. You don’t plan everything end-to-end but make an outline or a trail that you would want to cover in Vietnam. The minimum time to travel in Vietnam from the north or the south to the other end is 3 weeks.

This is close to the ideal time to travel in Vietnam as ideally, you need at least a month to explore Vietnam to a certain level. Anything less than 3 weeks mean you have to forgo a few places obviously, but the key lies in how many places you want to explore.

You should also add travel time. If you are moving from one town to the next nearest (which would ideally be the case), note that there aren’t late-night buses for overnight journeys. It takes 4 to 5 hours to travel to the next town, and the best you can do is to take the first bus or the last bus (which is around 5 to 6 PM) to cut travel time, which still takes away some time to explore attractions. If you are short on time, take the domestic flights which are almost equal or sometimes less than a train ticket.

I traveled for 3.5 weeks traveling from Ho Chi Minh to the north. But I couldn’t spend enough time in North Vietnam, and I felt I needed a week more to feel contended!

Btw, if you are wondering what to do in Vietnam, you can check my post on the 95 things to do in Vietnam .

Recommended read: What to do in Vietnam? Here are the 95 things to do in Vietnam!

4. Weather isn’t the same everywhere

One of the most important things to know before going to Vietnam is to study and understand Vietnam’s weather. With such an elongated country, it’s only natural the weather is significantly different from region to region in Vietnam. This is how extreme the weather can be – It was snowing in Sapa while I couldn’t tolerate the hot sun in Mui Ne when I was traveling in Vietnam!

Categorising the country into three regions, here’s what to know about Vietnam’s weather.

Northern Vietnam : The winter is very cold, especially in places bordering China, and the temperature drops to single digits and even minus degree Celsius temperatures are common in the north of Vietnam. The summers are hot and it showers sometimes as well during this season. The wet season is often accompanied by typhoons and storms that cause landslides and other natural calamities.

So the ideal time to travel in the north is just after the summer and before the arrival of the monsoons, i.e between March & May. Or right after the monsoon and before the onset of summer between October & November (which can be tricky given the typhoons).

Central Vietnam : The weather in the central is tropical in nature where dry weather lasts between January & August, monsoons arrive in August and last until November, given the window for ttravellers between October to January.

Southern Vietnam : As you go south in Vietnam, the climate is full-fledged tropical, characterised by two seasons prominently, the wet and the dry, which is more or less same as the above in central Vietnam, making it ideal for travel from December to April.

Typhoons in Vietnam: As I said earlier, Typhoons are a common occurrence in countries like Vietnam or the Philippines. And entering Vietnam without knowing about them is a huge gamble. Although you can’t predict years in advance, usually, the country knows the arrival of typhoons and the people prepare accordingly. So check the weather online for typhoons.

Central and South Vietnam regions are prone to typhoons between August & November, where floods are common, while the typhoons arrive a little early in the north, around late June or July. Overall, October tends to be stormy in the entire country, and the typhoon season typically ends around December every year.

5. The best time to visit Vietnam is subjective

One of the things to know before visiting Vietnam is zeroing on the best time to travel, which is really subjective. As the country has different weather in various regions, it is the first thing among the things to consider. And although Vietnam is suitable for travel throughout the year, the best time really depends on the experiences that you are looking for.

As a rule of thumb, the best time to visit Vietnam is spring, between February to April and autumn, from August to October. This is when the number of travelers is high. And places can be expensive & in demand, tours can get full quickly and bargaining might not be feasible. But if you want to spend a summer in Vietnam, you can choose the summertime from February to June to travel, when the flight tickets, accommodations, and tour packages will be much cheaper.

Region-wise, let’s look at what’s the best time to travel to Vietnam as below:

North (Hanoi, Ninh Binh/Tam Coc, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cuc Phuong, Mai Chau & Mu Cang Chai)

Overall, the best months to travel in the north & northeast Vietnam is from October to April, although it gets quite cold during December and January. The best for trekking in regions like Sapa and around Mu Cang Chai is from September & November, and from March to May.

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Danang, Hue, Nha Trang, Dalat, Phong Nha & Quy Nhon)

The best time to visit these places in central Vietnam is from late November to May when you can completely avoid the rains and typhoons. However, summer would be prevalent during this time. So if you are not a summer-person, you wouldn’t enjoy being here during this time.

Editor’s note – A complete guide to Ninh-Binh Tam Coc

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh, Long Hai, The Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Phan Thiet/Mui Ne & Ho Tram)

The ideal time to travel in South Vietnam is the same as that of central regions, i.e from late November to May, with the time between February to May being hotter.

6. Some highly popular places are over-rated

The tourism industry is one of the leading contributors to the economy of Vietnam. Vietnam sells tourism, and it sells tourism too well. So much that at many places, you will only realize that they are overrated, unfortunately after you have spent your money time on these attractions. Probably every country has this list of places that are over-hyped, and Vietnam is no exception. Of course, it depends on individuals to individuals.

Halong Bay is one of the most visited attractions in Vietnam, and many feel that it is crowded and overrated. It is beautiful for sure, but a bit of exaggeration is in place when locals sell it.

The same goes for Mekong Delta trips in the south near Ho Chi Minh, and some attractions in cities like Mui Ne, Danang and Phong Nha. So my point is, go through the list of attractions with a pinch of salt to decide whether an attraction or a city is really worth your time or money.

Editor’s note – Top Things to do in Phong Nha(Apart from exploring the caves)

7. Booking tours through travel agencies isn’t a bad option

In most countries, the package tours, whether private or group are considered expensive, and you pay less than what you pay for the tour if you do them independently. In Vietnam however, this is only partially true. Sometimes, booking tour costs you way less than traveling independently would cost you.

The tours like the 3-day all-inclusive trek to Sapa , local tours in Ho Chi Minh like a few of the day trips and multiple days Halong Bay Cruises are some of the tours that you can still book.

8. But keep tours at bay

Having said that the tours are reliable, keep them as a last resort. Overall, traveling independently is cheaper in Vietnam. So go for tours only in exceptional cases or where you think that go by yourself is costlier.

9. Get off the typical tourist places to find your own paradise

The best things to do in Vietnam, the places to explore and experiences to enjoy are not yet touristy or commercialised! So if you wander off the main attractions and create your own offbeat trail, you’ll stumble upon the better places in Vietnam, which are wonderful, cheap and authentic.

If you want to experience the countryside laden with lush fields, terraced paddy farms and wildflowers, head to the north and the north-east of Vietnam. If mountains are your thing, central Vietnam away from the coast would keep you enthralled. Similarly, the places close to popular cities in the south have many things to offer travelers.

10. Vietnam isn’t a beach destination

Vietnam is a very beautiful country hand down, but let’s be honest, beaches aren’t Vietnam’s forte. If you haven’t been to any southeast Asian countries, then this wouldn’t be a big deal and probably, you would careless, but there are countries just for beaches in SE Asia and that’s definitely not Vietnam.

Of course, you’ll find the beaches in Danang, Mui Ne or Phu Quoc cleaner and good, but that’s all that you find – meaning that Vietnam isn’t the country for an exclusive beach holiday .

11. Have a packing list for Vietnam Trip

Believe me, you should really make a packing list for the Vietnam trip. Irrespective of the time you are traveling and the places that you want to visit in Vietnam, always pack the summer clothes, at least one solid winter jacket, rain gears, shoe ideal for treks & hikes, flip-flops and enough clothes to suit for the hot, wet and the winter season.

I know it sounds crazy but believes me, it comes from my experience. I spent my days in Hanoi shivering when the temperature dropped to single digits in November because all I had was summer clothes!

12. If food is your first love, Vietnam will be your favourite!

I should have talked about food first but saved it for later. Vietnam’s is a foodie’s paradise – that’s how Vietnam’s food can be described at best. You are in for a treat while in Vietnam if food is a major thing in your travels.

Whether you are dining at an exquisite restaurant in Hanoi or going on a quest for the seafood in local eateries in Mui Ne, you can never resist falling in love with Vietnamese food.

Whether you just want a simple noodle soup or a signature seafood delicacy, Vietnamese are adept at making the perfect food consisting of the flavours done skilfully. I had the most simple yet the most delicious noodle soup of my life in Saigon, and it cost me less than 2 USD.

There is more to Vietnamese food than Banh Mi – the Baguette sandwich and the quintessential Pho served in various versions (which tastes unique in every city!). I tried a lot of Vietnamese dishes, but it’s a shame that I can’t recollect their names at all!

13. Don’t underestimate Vietnam’s street food

Vietnam’s street food is something that you shouldn’t miss at all. It doesn’t matter where you travel, but make it a point to explore the local markets where you find the street food. You’ll find nothing fancy, but you can find small tables laid out on the footpath or in front of the shop, which consists of a small kitchen. You’ll find a lot of locals dining. These are the signs of finding excellent street food in the towns of Vietnam.

Once I figured the mouth-watering taste of street food, I switched to it full-time during my Vietnam trip. And boy, it was super fun, delicious and damn cheap!

There are many exclusive food tours that you can join as well as some cooking classes if you want to learn the secret Vietnamese recipes.

Editor’s note – 17 Amazing Things to do in Dalat, Vietnam’s postcard hill town

14. Understand the currency Vietnamese Dong

The Vietnamese currency is called Dong, abbreviated as VND . The denominations are really small, with the least value being 500 VND, which almost has no value. So it takes a while to understand the many notes with the different number of zeroes on it. And if you don’t pay enough attention while transacting, it is quite possible to lose money. Everything is in multiples of thousands, and some notes look similar.

The US dollars are freely accepted almost everywhere, but keep an eye on the currency exchange rates if you wish to exchange. There are scores of shops offering currency exchange. But it’s better to inquire in multiple shops before finalising as the rates differ. Avoid the exchange at the airports.

15. ATM’s aren’t there in EVERY town in Vietnam

Although cash is the king of Vietnam, ATM’s aren’t in every corner in all the cities. Of course, the bigger towns are an exception to this but in towns like Phong Nha or Tam Coc, there is just a handful of them even in 2018. So make sure to stock enough cash when you are in bigger cities to cover up for off the beat/smaller towns.

Also, make sure you have some dollars that you can get converted to VND to begin your trip. If you could get Dong before arriving it’s the best, but since they aren’t available easily, get some currency in cash, preferably USD. Euros or pounds also could be exchanged although USD is the most widely accepted currency after Dong in Vietnam.

16. You can work while you travel because Wifi is great

If you are a digital nomad or you work while traveling, then Vietnam isn’t a bad place at all, for the Wifi is decent in every town. It is not as blazing it is in Thailand, but the Wifi is excellent enough for you to get work done, make video calls or simply enjoy!

Almost all the hostels and hotels provide very good internet. So you can also avoid buying a local sim if the internet is all you need.

More Things To Know Before Going To Vietnam

17. sleeper buses are good and cheaper than the trains.

Many say that traveling by train in Vietnam is an experience itself. I wanted to experience this too, but I simply gave up after comparing it with the cost of the buses, which is less than half the price of train tickets! I don’t know why train travel isn’t cheap in Vietnam, but I can vouch for the many sleeper buses that I took.

No, they run sleeper buses during the day too, even when the journey time is less than 5 hours. The buses are the cheapest way to travel, and they are really great. You have enough leg room, the seats are comfortable, there is AC and some have WIfi too.

And most importantly, they reach on time most of the time. Also in some towns, they drop off right in the downtown or the central area, which means you would be saving on your transport to your hotel or hostel.

So don’t think twice if you want to go by buses. You can book the tickets at your hostel/hotel or directly with the travel companies (the cost is the same). The other advantage is the open tickets system, where you can buy the tickets without a fixed date and board the bus when you want to go giving you full flexibility.

However, note that the seater buses are small and aren’t very good, but they may be priced the same as that of sleeper buses. The only way to know this before is to cross-check many times while booking your tickets. I just ignored checking it once and I was given a seater bus ticket to Dalat, which was a very uncomfortable journey.

18. Haggling is a norm, so better learn it!

In Vietnam, locals expect to haggle in businesses and transaction. They often quote almost double or a few times even triple the money that a thing actually costs. So it’s up to the travelers to make a bargain. A friendly bargain is always encouraged, where they write or show the price on a calculator if their English isn’t great.

So as tourists, be prepared to negotiate which mostly works in the end. If not, just turn down and walk away and you might be called by them where they settle for your price. If they refuse rarely for the price that you are quoting, it only means that you have asked for a very low price!

19. Having Travel insurance is better

The bigger cities of Vietnam have great medical facilities but overall, it is expensive to get medical care in the country. Over the counter medicines are available with many pharmacy shops that are present in each town, but if you are prone to allergies or on some medication, it is better to get it from your place before coming to Vietnam.

Also having travel insurance is highly recommended for your Vietnam trip, which might save you a lot of money in case of any emergency.

20. Morning people are at an advantage

Vietnam sleeps early and begins the day quite early. Irrespective of the region, Vietnamese are early risers. Maybe because of the geography or the weather, whatever the reasons are, it means that if you are a morning person, you have more advantage as a traveler.

The tours start early, the attractions open as early as 7 AM in many towns. And it is way less crowded along with pleasant weather during the mornings. And except a few places in Ho Chi Minh, Danang or Hanoi, most cities wind up early in the night. Shops begin to close around 9 PM and by 11 PM, it would get deserted. So make the most of it rising early while in Vietnam!

21. Vietnamese coffee is awesome and really strong

The food in Vietnam is simply awesome, but Vietnamese coffee is another level altogether. If you are a coffee-addict, be assured that you’ll end up buying coffee to your home, apart from the fact that you’ll have it all the time in Vietnam!

But unlike any other country, Vietnamese coffee is usually very strong. Whether you consume it as a black coffee or add ice or condensed milk, with the cold coffee being the most popular drink, it is strong. So you might want to keep your hydration levels in check especially if you are traveling during summer and are prone to the habit of drinking excessive coffee!

22. Keep some extra photocopies of your passport

Many hostels or hotels in Vietnam ask for the original copy of your passport and they keep it as security while allocating rooms to you. I am not that comfortable giving away my passport as I keep it with me all the time. So I had made several photocopies, which I handed over at every place.

Although hesitant at first, most of the owners accepted the photocopy after verifying. So if you don’t want to hand over, you can firmly but politely refuse so. Some owners may be surprised and even act forceful but being assertive is the only way here.

23. Bikes are definitely the way to explore, only if you are a confident driver!

Renting bikes and exploring a place is popular in SE Asia, but Vietnam is a biker’s destination itself. Buying a bike and traveling through the length of the country is quite popular among the backpackers and adventure seekers.

It can go wrong if the motorbike fails and ends up needing repair causing maintenance charges and delays. But if you can check it well, pay a little extra and get a reliable bike, it would be the most fun way to travel.

From the coastal road of Mui Ne to the curves of Dalat to the adventurous Hai Van & Monkey Pass , Vietnam is diverse for riders. If you aren’t sure about buying one, renting a motorbike in each city is what you could do next. I did it and along with saving some money on tours, I had the best time driving amidst cities, forests, mountains and by the seaside. 

A word of caution though – Although both geared and non-geared are available, if you aren’t used to traffic, bad roads or lack general driving experience, go for a motorbike with extreme caution. Maybe you could just hire for a day and see.  Because motorbike accidents are a regular thing, and if you aren’t careful, you might injure yourself seriously!

24. Go for registered taxis

Cabs are a convenient way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you are traveling in groups.   But tourists are often asked to pay higher prices since either the meter is faulty or tuned for higher prices or the taxis are fake.

Vinasun taxis that have a uniform color code is professional and reliable, and not that expensive if covering long distances within big cities. Avoid getting into random cabs. Also, there are motorbikes by Grab where motorists will drive you around, which is cheaper than the cabs.

25. If you thought that the capital Hanoi is busy, well, Ho Chi Minh is

Being the capital, Hanoi must be bustling and happening, but it is far quieter and devoid of glamour. On the other hand, Ho Chi Minh in the south is the nightlife capital and a vibrant city that always looks busy.

Hanoi is more urbanised and progressed, whereas if you want to entertain yourself either through socialising or shopping, Ho Chi Minh is the place to be. Hanoi is rich in history while Ho Chi Minh is known for its unique culture.

26. Not everyone speaks or understands English

If you travel to the interior of Vietnam, not everyone would understand English, and it would be difficult to get around. Even in the big cities, although most hotel owners, people in cafes and tourist centres speak English, in most cases they aren’t fluent and it is just basic English. So keep that in mind and learning a few Vietnamese phrases would help!

27. Traffic is hectic and honking is common

If you are not used to heavy traffic, then that’s the first cultural shock that you would encounter in Vietnam. Delays are common, and traffic jams are a regular thing, especially in Ho Chi Minh.

Honking isn’t rude or offence unlike in many parts of the world. It just means that they are in a hurry and they want you to make way for them.

28.  Avoid tap water

Tap water isn’t suitable for drinking. Bottled water is very cheap and most hostels provide purified water. So go for these and avoid drinking water directly from the tap at any cost.

29. People are friendly and helpful

One of the things to know about Vietnamese culture is its people. They are welcoming, helpful and friendly, although the youngsters these days might have money on their mind when it comes to tourists. A few times money may be the motive for the locals to befriend tourists but that’s not always the case.

As a solo traveler, I found some locals to be genuinely warm and helpful. The more you travel in Vietnam and their people, the better you get to know the actual locals that are not in this tourist business, who are kind.

30. But beware of scams & watch your belongings

Although the people of Vietnam are really nice, the country is known for its notorious scams targeted at tourists. I didn’t come across any but for many, this is one of the main reason that stops them visiting the country again. From fake tours to horrible rooms to over-charged bike rents to taxi meters, you might be scammed if you don’t keep your eyes and ears open.

Is Vietnam safe for tourists? It is as safe or not as safe as any country that receives too many tourists. Don’t leave your belongings unattended in any cafes or restaurants. Keep the cash hidden and don’t flaunt in public places to avoid unnecessary attention which might lead you to trouble.

That’s it, folks! So these are the things to know before going to Vietnam. Have you been to Vietnam? How was your experience? If I have missed anything, let me know!

Also here are some posts that would help you to get to know more about Vietnam!

OTHER POSTS ON VIETNAM THAT YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT

What to do in Vietnam? Here are the 95 Things to do in Vietnam

An Ultimate Guide to all the caves in Phong Nha(With tips)

A Travel Guide to Ninh Binh Tam Coc

Best Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City – A Travel Guide

48 Hours in Hanoi – How To Explore Hanoi in 2 Days

A Total Travel Guide To Mui Ne, Vietnam’s Pretty Beach Town

Things to Do in Hue – A Complete Guide

Exploring Dalat – How To Enjoy This Hill Town of Vietnam

Vietnam Visa for Indians – How to easily get your Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Hoi An in Photos – Walking Through Vietnam’s Post Card Town

Also, if you are planning to go to Laos as well, Luang Prabang should be on your list. Read the below post to know what to do in Luang Prabang.

A complete travel guide to things to do in Luang Prabang

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Vietnam vs Thailand: What's Your Pick For Your Next Trip?

Going to Vietnam or Thailand? Vietnam and Thailand are the two most popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. They enjoy some similarities, but there are many differences in culture, lifestyle, travel experience, food, and more.

Below we explore 10 major differences between the two countries to give you an overview of the travel experience for each and help you decide which to visit.

Vietnam vs Thailand Travel Summary Table

We recommend thailand if you:.

• Are making your first trip to Southeast Asia: Thailand gathers the most Southeast Asian elements: Buddhist temples, exotic food, tropical islands, and rainforest. Mature tourism services and facilities offer a very good experience.
• Prefer a beach holiday: Thailand has better beaches than Vietnam and offers various choices.
• Plan to celebrate a honeymoon or anniversary: Thailand is more suitable for a romantic vibe and provides more opportunities for some special experiences like a dinner cruise, couples spa, etc. 
• Travel with kids seeking plenty of activities: Thailand offers more interesting things to do like snorkeling, meeting elephants, banana boats...

We Recommend Vietnam if You:

• Seek a rustic and authentic experience: Vietnam is less developed than Thailand. Natural scenery, ethnic charm, and ancient towns are the main highlights.
• Want to experience a big contrast in culture: Due to the influence of Chinese culture, French colonization, and the Vietnam War, Vietnam has a mixed culture and complex history.
• Seek a more affordable price: Vietnam is economical, definitely cheaper than Thailand.

Check out how to plan a family trip to Southeast Asia >>>

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

1. Vietnam vs Thailand: Culture and History

Vietnam features a more mixed cultural vibe due to the influence of China and France. Thailand's profound Buddhist culture is its most representative aspect.

Once a vassal state of China, Vietnamese culture is heavily influenced by Chinese culture, especially in the form of Confucianism and Taoist deities, which impact customs, traditions, and beliefs.

The main religious belief in Vietnam is a combination of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.

Occupied by France, the legacy of French colonialism is most visible in distinctive French architecture in Ho Chi Minh City.

Some battle tunnels and equipment from the Vietnam War also remain in Ho Chi Minh City.

Thailand's culture, on the other hand, has developed in the direction of Buddhism.

The main religion in Thailand is Buddhism. Monks have a very high status and they conduct numerous Buddhist rites, from festivals to daily blessings. Most teenage boys become novice monks for a while, about a year, to earn merit for their families.

Many exuberant festivals are connected to both Buddhism and the changing seasons (such as Loy Krathong — Thailand's Festival of Lights).

The whole country is much influenced by Western thought and lifestyle. Thai people are easily satisfied and they believe that life should be fun.

Extending reading: The sample itineraries of Thailand for 10 days , 12 days , 14 days and 21 days >>>

2. Vietnam vs Thailand: Convenience of Travel

Thailand's tourism is much more mature. Though Vietnam is catching up, Thailand wins with regard to convenience and comfort.

Ease of Getting There and Around

Both Thailand and Vietnam are easy to get to by international flight (now they've reopened for tourism "post-COVID"). Thailand is easier to navigate with more convenient city networks.

Thailand: With the resumption of international flights, it is easy to book a flight to Thailand. Flying is the main way to travel within Thailand. Metro, buses, taxis, and local tuk-tuks are the main way to travel around cities.

Vietnam: It is also easy to book a flight to Vietnam. Vietnam's major cities can be reached by air while, due to the narrow and complicated terrain in Vietnam with some scenic areas in the mountains, it is not that easy to navigate. Taxi or private transfer are the main recommended ways.

>>>Read about how to plan a trip to Thailand, Singapore and Bali

Visa and Entry Requirements

Thailand provides easier and faster entry procedures.

Thailand: Thailand offers visa-free access to 56 countries/regions, including Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Norway, the USA, and the UK.

Vietnam: Visitors from 22 countries may enter visa-free, including the UK, France, Italy, and Germany.

If you're from America, Canada, Australia, or about 80 other countries not on the list for visa-free entry, the most convenient way to enter is to apply for an e-visa online .

Vietnamese people engaged in tourism can speak English, but it is not as popular on the streets as in Thailand.

In Thailand, English is more common, and many people in the cities can speak English. English is obligatory for children from kindergarten onwards.

3. Vietnam vs Thailand: Travel Experience

Vietnam and Thailand have different highlights. Vietnam features a karst seascape, ethnic customs, ancient towns, and the Mekong Delta. Thailand features Buddhist temples, beaches, rainforest, and wild animals.

Thailand: Beaches, Temples, Elephants

Thailand is vibrant.

Thailand enjoys some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia. Beach destinations like Ko Phuket, Ko Samui, and Krabi offer beautiful beaches, exciting water sports, and resorts with stunning views. Lively local markets and long-tailed boats show you the lifestyle.

Flickering neon lights and the revelry from the bars and club parties show its crazy side.

Glittering palaces and temples inform you of its profound Buddhist culture and history. The elephants and other wild animals meeting in the rainforest will bring you charming surprises.

There are also many special experiences available, like a romantic dinner cruise, making a traditional Thai floating lantern, and cooking classes.

Extending reading: How to Plan Your First Trip to Thailand — 7 Easy Steps

Vietnam: Towns, Villages, Cruises

Vietnam is relaxing and quiet.

Narrow alleys in Hanoi's Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh's colonial street sights and Vietnam War relics, and the Ancient Town of Hoi An show its historical charm.

Ethnic villages in the mountainous northern area, cruises on Halong Bay, and boats on the Mekong River are unique experiences.

Vietnam hasn't been widely known as a beach destination, but places like the island of Phu Quoc and the south coast destination of Nha Trang have recently become known as popular beach destinations.

4. Vietnam vs Thailand: How Long to Stay

Both Thailand and Vietnam are rich in tourism resources. Thailand requires about 8 days to 3 weeks for most first-time tours. Vietnam needs about 10 days to 2 weeks.

If you want to plan a trip to both Thailand and Vietnam, you will need at least 2 weeks. See the Best 2-week Thailand and Vietnam Itineraries .

Thailand: It is popular to visit two cities and an island, which usually takes 8–10 days. If you want something different, like a forest park, you may need about 2 weeks. If you want to explore Thailand from north to central to south, you will need about 3 weeks. >>> 2 Weeks in Thailand – 3 Perfect Thailand Itineraries .

Vietnam: It usually takes about 10 days to travel from Hanoi in the north to Hoi An in the middle and Ho Chi Minh in the south. If you want to enjoy more beach time, 2 weeks is needed. See the Top 10-day Vietnam Itineraries . 

Extending reading: How Long to Spend in Southeast Asia (for First Timers): from 2 Weeks to 2 Months

5. Vietnam vs Thailand: Weather and Best Times

Vietnam and Thailand have similar weather conditions — both are tropical countries with rainy and dry seasons. Thailand is a little hotter than Vietnam due to a lower latitudes in the south.

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and March when the weather is cool and dry. Thailand experiences very hot weather between April and June. The rainy season in Thailand occurs between June and October, but lower prices and smaller crowds are the rewards.

Extending reading: Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Thailand & When is the Rainy Season

As a long and narrow country, the weather in the south and north of Vietnam is quite different. The best time for North Vietnam (Hanoi and Halong Bay) is from March to May and from September to November; Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An) from January to August; and South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta) from December to April.

Extending reading: Vietnam's Rainy Season and Best Times to Travel .

6. Vietnam vs Thailand: Travel Costs

Although Southeast Asia is generally affordable and good value, by comparison, Thailand will cost more than Vietnam.

Thailand can not only meet the backpackers' on-a-budget requirements, but can also satisfy those who are looking for a luxury experience. The trip cost of Thailand can range from 50 to 150 USD per day per person from budget to luxury.

Vietnam's price level is relatively low. The costs of hotels and food will be cheaper. They typically range from 30 to 100 USD per day per person from budget to luxury.

Read more details about trip costs in Southeast Asia .

7. Vietnam vs Thailand: Food

Thailand's cuisine features a sour and spicy flavor, but there are more mellow curries. Vietnam's cuisine focuses on a fresh taste, but it is still a little sour and spicy.

Thai cuisine is more famous than Vietnamese cuisine overseas. It's known for its pad Thai, tom yum goong, and fantastic Thai curries. If you are a foodie, don't miss the busy night markets in Thailand. You can find a huge variety of Thai snacks there. 

Though Vietnamese cuisine is also a bit sour and spicy, it has a refreshing taste. Fish sauce and lime are the main seasonings. Pho and Vietnamese spring rolls are the best-known dishes.

8. Vietnam vs Thailand: Accommodation

Both Vietnam and Thailand offer various accommodation choices matching a wide range of budgets, but Thailand has more high-end hotels.

Thailand: Being mature in tourism, the standard of hotels in Thailand is very close to Western standards, especially in Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui. You can find world-class hotels there with high quality facilities and service.

Vietnam: The standard of hotels in Vietnam is usually lower than that in the West. Book a higher-rated hotel as much as possible to obtain a comfortable experience.

9. Vietnam vs Thailand: Popularity

Thailand is chosen by more visitors. It's about twice as popular as Vietnam.

Before the pandemic, in 2019, more than 18 million international tourists visited Vietnam, but Thailand received more than 39 million international visitors.

After their reopening in 2022, Thailand accepted about 500,000 international visitors in March and April. Vietnam received more than 250,000 international tourists in the 2 months since tourism reopened there (March 15 – May 15).

10. Vietnam vs Thailand: Shopping

Thailand is renowned for being a shopping paradise. Vietnam does not stand out in this respect.

Thailand: Bangkok is the shopping paradise of Southeast Asia, known for its favorable prices and various international and local brands. Duty free shops, shopping malls like Terminal 21, and night markets are good places to shop.

Vietnam: Though Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh have some shopping malls, their scale and product ranges are not as big as Thailand's. Pedestrian streets and markets are more popular shopping places, like the 36 Streets in Hanoi.

Related Articles

• Vietnam vs Cambodia (13 major differences): which to visit
• How to Plan a Thailand and Vietnam Trip (2024/2025)

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Vietnam vs Bali: Which is Better For Travel? Full Comparison

This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Vietnam vs Bali – Wondering which is better for your next trip? Both tourist places are extremely popular, have a lot of touristy offerings, and are relatively pocket-friendly. Therefore, this dilemma of whether to go to Vietnam or Bali for your next trip is understandable.

In this post, I will compare and contrast the two destinations based on my personal experience of traveling to the two places to help you determine which should be your next travel destination.

Quick Overview – Vietnam vs Bali While both Vietnam and Bali are excellent choices for your next trip, If you want friendly locals, pristine beaches, and a more relaxed outing – visit Bali. But if you want more variety in terms of tourist attractions, food, and cultural and historic offerings – visit Vietnam. If price is your primary criterion – you can visit either of the places on a small budget. The major differentiating factor would be the cost of flight tickets.

Read on to find out an in-depth comparison of Vietnam vs Bali based on my personal experiences.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Vietnam vs Bali: Which is Better For Travel

Cost of travel.

To be honest, both the places are extremely budget-friendly and the difference in the cost of travel only depends on how you choose to spend your money.

Nevertheless, as per Budget your trip , the average daily cost per day per person of Vietnam is USD 51 while that of Bali is USD 59. But just by looking at these numbers, don’t assume that Bali is more expensive than Vietnam.

My observations from traveling to the two places are

• Accommodation is cheaper in Vietnam than Bali.
• Drivers/Cars are more expensive in Vietnam
• Manmade tourist attractions like Zoos, Amusement Parks are more expensive in Bali
• Street food at both places is fairly comparable
• Food at restaurants or cafés is slightly more expensive in Vietnam than in Bali

Thus, you can plan a trip to either place on a relatively low budget.

How Many Days Required

I have a full post on how many days are enough in Bali that you can read. It even includes a sample itinerary to make the most of your Bali trip. The post states that the minimum number of days required to visit Bali is between 7 and 10 . To do proper justice to your time in Bali, it is recommended to split your stay between a beach town in the south like Jimbaran, Nusa Dua or Pandawa and a green hilly area like Ubud.

On the other hand, if you are planning a trip to Vietnam, you need at least 10 days . Vietnam being a full country, there are lots of places to visit. You need to take internal flights or trains to cover the full country. To do justice to each place, you will need to spend about 2-3 days at every destination.

An ideal itinerary would require you to spend time at

• Halong Bay,
• Sapa or Ninh Binh,
• Hoi An or Da Nang
• Ho Chi Minh City

To see Vietnam in greater detail, it would even be advisable to add Ha Giang, Hue, Dalat, or Phu Quoc to your itinerary.

Friendliness of People

A big part of our overall experience of any place depends on how warm and welcoming the people are towards tourists.

In this regard, I felt that the Balinese people were extremely friendly. I never came across any rude or arrogant Balinese locals on my trips to Bali.

On the other hand, since tourism is not the primary source of income for Vietnamese people, Vietnamese people can come across as slightly rude. You would be rarely received with a warm, welcoming smile. Communication with Vietnamese locals would often even feel more transactional than friendly.

I have spoken all about this and other issues one could face in Vietnam in my post on 14 reasons why you may want to stay away from Vietnam.

(An exception to that was the staff at the Hammock Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City – read the full review of Hammock Hotel here)

It’s also easier to communicate with Balinese people as most understand basic English. Communicating with Vietnamese people without a translator is impossible in most cases.

Thus, from a people-friendliness point of view, Bali enjoys an upper hand over Vietnam

Geography and Climate

The geography and climate of Bali and Vietnam may be compared as follows

Accommodation

Accommodation in Vietnam and Bali is comparable especially in the budget range. Both places offer good quality budget accommodation either in the form of hostels or budget rooms.

But in the mid-range category, you get much better value for money in Vietnam. In Bali, accommodation expenses can quickly start adding up once you move away from the budget range.

For the same price, you will get

• bigger rooms in Vietnam
• better amenities in Vietnam
• better quality of stay

But the flip side to this is that there isn’t much difference between the offerings of a 3-4 star hotel in Vietnam vs that of a 5-star hotel. But in Bali, the difference in quality is noticeable. A 5-star property feels far more luxurious than a 3-4 star property.

Thus if you are looking to pamper yourself at a luxury property, Bali may be a better option for you. But if you want solid value from a mid-range property, you’ll be pleased with Vietnam.

Transport or Commute

– Public transport in Vietnam is slightly more useful than the almost non-existent public transport in Bali – Renting a two-wheeler in Vietnam is slightly cheaper than in Bali. Vietnam per day scooter rental with petrol costs about USD 7, and Bali per day scooter rental with petrol costs about 9. – Hiring a car with a driver is cheaper in Bali than in Vietnam. In Bali, a full-day car with a driver costs about USD 40. In Vietnam, a full-day car with a driver costs about USD 55-60.

But the costs you save in Vietnam are often nullified because of the costs you need to incur on internal flights or trains to cover the length of the country.

In terms of food, Vietnamese food scores higher than Balinese food for its unique taste and excellent variety.

– The food options in Vietnam include Pho, Banh Mi, Spring Rolls, Bun Cha, Ban Xeo, Egg coffee, Goi Cuon, Com Tam, etc.

Non-vegetarian eaters would also be delighted to see preparations of snails, frogs, octopuses, etc available in street markets.

Vietnamese cold brew coffee and Vietnamese drip coffee are also famous all over the world for their rich, intense aroma.

– Bali, on the other hand, serves Nasi Goreng, Nasi Campur, Mie Goreng, Sate, Babi Guling, Bebek Betutu, Gado-Gado, etc. The cuisine relies heavily on rice and meat derived from pig, chicken, and duck.

But, international preparations like pasta, pizza, burgers, etc. are more easily available in Bali than in Vietnam where you need to mostly rely on local dishes.

In terms of vegetarian or vegan food availability, Bali scores higher than Vietnam

Vegetarian and vegan variants of rice, noodles, burgers, pizzas, pasta, salads, etc are found far more easily all across Bali. You won’t have to travel looking for vegetarian food places as almost all cafes, restaurants and beach-side shacks would serve vegetarian and vegan variants.

In Vietnam, the only vegetarian and vegan food options available in most restaurants and cafés would be steamed rice, rice paper, french fries, fruits, and salad. Many restaurants don’t serve vegan or vegetarian varieties of famous dishes like Banh Mi, Bun Cha, etc and you may have to specifically look for a restaurant serving vegan and vegetarian food using apps like Happy Cow.

Food in Vietnam is cheaper than in Bali.

Food in Bali is priced higher than in other Indonesian regions as it is the primary tourist destination in Indonesia. Vietnam, on the other hand, is not a tourist-centric economy and the food prices are very affordable.

Bali is a tourist destination and hence has quite a few hubs that stay open all night. Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu have multiple bars and clubs. They are vibrant and full of life. Even the beach shacks at Kuta and Seminyak are bustling with spirited energy until well beyond midnight.

Vietnam, on the other hand, is not particularly famous for its nightlife. It does have a few pockets that turn into happening places like the Bia Hoi or the Beer Street in Hanoi, the Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City, or rooftop bars in other cities like Danang, etc. But other than that by 9 pm, most areas in Vietnam close for the day and turn into quiet, deserted areas.

Even the night markets set up in Hoi An, Hanoi and other parts of Vietnam close down by 11 pm.

History & Culture

If you love visiting places that give you a peak into the place’s history, Vietnam has a lot to offer. Its history has seen Indian, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Vietnam was also a French colony and its present-day architecture reflects that abundantly. In the second half of the 20th century, Vietnam also fought the Vietnamese war against the Americans.

If you want to understand more of these influences, you can visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum in Hanoi, the National Historical Museum in Hanoi, the My Son sanctuary near Hoi An, the beautiful town of Hue, the War Remnants Museum in Saigon, the many structures in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An, etc.

To orient yourself culturally, you can also visit the many pagodas, ancient homes and caves, and temples all across Vietnam.

In Bali on the other hand, you would mainly find Hindu temples. These temples are found all over the island and include the famous Uluwatu Temple in the south, the Besakih temple, the Tanah Lot temple, the Taman Ayun temple, etc.

In addition to these, you would be thrilled to see the beautiful bamboo arches outside the homes, the idols of various Gods placed at the entrance of all homes, the stories of Ramayana told through cultural shows, etc. But from a historic point of view, the offerings of Bali don’t compare with those of Vietnam.

Bali beaches are famous all over the world. Being an island city, its coasts are home to all types of beaches. You can pick any based on your likes or dislikes

• For surfing go to Padang Padang or Kuta
• For partying try Seminyak
• For seafood choose Jimbaran
• For some sunbathing, get to Sanur
• For watersports head to Nusa Dua

In addition to this, there are also islands near Bali that you could visit in a day.

Vietnam, on the other hand, has a long coastline that runs all through the length of the country. But its beaches are not the most tourist-friendly all over. In the North, if you want to spend time at the sea, you can stay at Halong Bay – but that is more of a port town than a beach area. In Central Vietnam too, there are a few great beaches in Da Nang and near Hoi An or Nha Trang. For a more concentrated beach holiday, you may have to visit Phu Quoc island.

Thus, if you want a classic beach holiday, Bali would be a much better choice than Vietnam.

Tourist Attractions

Both places have some extraordinary tourist attractions. But if you are considering versatility alone, Vietnam enjoys an edge because of its rich history and cultural diversity. Its food is also a strong pull for tourists.

In Vietnam, attractions range from

• lakes e.g. Hoan Kiem lake
• temples and pagodas
• sanctuaries
• cultural shows and theatre
• farming trips
• manmade attractions like the Ba Na Hills with its French village and Golden Hand bridge
• old palaces and structures
• zoos, parks, amusements areas
• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Islands and beaches
• many types of boat rides like bamboo boat ride, basket boat ride, lantern boat ride, etc.
• food tours and café hopping
• shopping areas

Bali, on the other hand, has

• temples and ancient homes
• volcano and mountain range
• rice fields
• boating and watersport activities
• island tours and adventure
• zoos, gardens, and waterparks
• cultural shows and theatres
• shopping and handicraft markets

If you’re a typical tourist who wants a lot more variety in your itinerary, go for Vietnam. If you want a chilled-out vacation with a good dose of natural and cultural attractions – opt for Bali.

Kid-friendliness

Bali is a tourist-centric destination and as a result, has many manmade attractions that can keep kids happy.

The Bali Bird Park, the Bali Zoo, the cultural shows at Garuda Kencana, or the fabulous waterpark Waterbom make for excellent outings with kids. The turtle beach or other beaches with watersport activities are also excellent sources of entertainment for kids.

Vietnam, however, doesn’t have much to keep young kids interested. There are zoos, gardens, malls, and parks in major cities but what they offer is not worth a visit on a short trip. Older kids interested in history and culture would learn a lot from visiting the many historical places, museums, etc.

We have visited both places with our daughter and I definitely think she had more fun in Bali. In Vietnam too, she enjoyed observing the cultural differences, discovering new food items, spending time on a cruise, etc. – but there was nothing specially crafted for her age group.

Couple-friendliness

Want to decide between Bali and Vietnam for a romantic holiday? Bali definitely wins!

Bali has exotic beaches, prisitine mountain ranges, lush greenery and scenic beauty all across. Simply observing the beauty is enough to have a fulfilling holiday and you don’t necessarily need to pack your day with visits to various tourist attractions.

Vietnam, being a country, requires some city-hopping. The days are also jam-packed with visits to museums, temples, cruises, boat rides, etc. Visiting Vietnam and staying cocooned in one city would not feel as fulfilling as doing the same in Bali would.

Scams and Safety Concerns

Vietnam is fairly safe but not without its many scams that you have to constantly avoid.

Some common scams to avoid in Vietnam are

• being given a lesser value similar currency note
• bike thefts
• showing you a more expensive tourist-only rate card or menu card
• cab drivers taking you from a longer route to charge you more

Bali, on the other hand, felt safe throughout. We had to bargain when shopping for souvenirs when booking cars when getting two-wheelers on rent etc – but that’s expected at any place. The intention of the locals was not to scam or rob us.

Read all our posts on Bali here

Read all our posts on Vietnam here

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

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Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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