best tourist destinations in vietnam

The 10 best places to visit in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 24, 2024 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Phu Quoc

Best for beach lovers

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

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

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

Best for city slickers

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

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

3. Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Best for iconic photos

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

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

4. Ho Chi Minh City

Best for a sense of the past

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

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

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

5. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Best for unique experiences

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

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

Best for history

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

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

7. The Central Beaches

Best for sun-seekers

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

Best for imperial history

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

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

9. Ba Be National Park

Best for lake and forest scenery

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

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

10. Ha Giang

Best for mountain views

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

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

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

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2024

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

1. Halong Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in 2022

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

1. Ha Long Bay

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

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

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

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

2. Ninh Binh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Nha Trang

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

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

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

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

8. Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

Before you go to Vietnam

Before we dive into the best places to visit in Vietnam, make sure to read my guide on 16 essential travel tips for visiting Vietnam . It includes tons of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your trip. Along with the tips included above, here are a few key things to be aware of before visiting Vietnam. I’ve rounded up all my top tips to help you plan the perfect Vietnam trip.

Quick facts

Currency: Vietnamese Dong ( Check latest rates here )

Langauge: Vietnamese

Time Zone: GMT+7

Climate: Tropical / Monsoon

When to visit Vietnam

The weather in Vietnam can be unpredictable. Therefore before booking flights and accommodation, it’s always a good idea to know when to visit Vietnam and what to pack for a Vietnam trip .

Peak Season (Jul – Aug)

Vietnam’s peak season runs from July to August. Temperatures are hot and humid throughout most parts of the country (except the far north) and expect some showers. Prices also tend to be steeper during these months, so it’s best to book accommodation well in advance.

If you are traveling on a flexible schedule, you might want to consider only booking your arrival hotel. And, then take it from there. On our two-week Vietnam trip, we had an idea of where we wanted to go, but no fixed plans. We only booked our hotel for the first leg of our journey. Once in Vietnam, we simply booked hotels further afield a day in advance. Even though we visited in August, we were still able to find affordable mid-range accommodation. But just a tip – traveling like this can be quite stressful! So, it’s best to plan accordingly.

Shoulder Season (Dec – Mar)

If you plan to visit Vietnam during the shoulder season, you can expect sunny weather in the south with cooler-to-cold weather in the north. If traveling during Tet, Vietnamese Lunar New Year (late Jan – early Feb), booking accommodation and transport well in advance is highly encouraged.

Low Season (Apr – Jun, Sep – Nov)

There are a bunch of festivals during these months, so those on the hunt for unique cultural experiences won’t be disappointed. In general, the weather is lovely too, but note that typhoons aren’t uncommon on Vietnam’s northern and central coastline.

Most visitors need a visa to enter Vietnam, but luckily the process doesn’t take more than a few days.

Some European passport holders, such as citizens from the UK, France, and Germany, can enter Vietnam 15 days visa-free. Citizens from the US and most other nations do however need to apply for a visa. Some nationalities can also apply for a visa online – you can read more about it here . Alternatively, use iVisa to help you sort out everything online in a jiffy.

If you are South African, like me, you will need to apply for a visa (in person) at your nearest Vietnam embassy.

Arriving in Vietnam

Vietnam is served by three main international airports, namely, Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang International Airport.

Depending on your Vietnam itinerary and time, you might want to consider arriving and departing at different airports. That way, you’ll save traveling time and unnecessary traveling costs. (Find flights or compare airline prices here in Skyscanner ).

Arriving in Hanoi

Noi Bai International Airport is only about 45km from Hanoi’s city center. However, it’s best to leave at least 1 hour of travel time to reach the Old Quarter (and vice versa).

Taxis are plentiful, and you can easily book a transfer through your hotel for roughly USD$30 one-way. Alternatively, grab a private transfer from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi City/Halong Bay first to save time and money.

For those traveling on a shoestring, there are many dirt cheap local buses to consider. These can easily transport you from the airport to Hanoi Old Quarter or Hanoi Train station. 

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is about 8km away from Saigon’s city center. And it takes less than 30 minutes to get there from the airport.

Direct transfers through hotels will set you back at least USD$30. Local buses also run every half hour between 6 am-6 pm to the Ben Thanh Market downtown. But if you have a lot of luggage perhaps consider taking a taxi or a private transfer from the airport to HCMC (which is slightly cheaper than getting a taxi directly from the airport).  

Arriving in Da Nang

If you are flying in from Siem Reap, Cambodia, the closest international airport is Da Nang International Airport .

The airport is only a few km away from the city center, and reasonably close to most of the beach resorts too. Grab a taxi at the airport or book a private transfer for Da Nang here for a hassle-free journey.  

How to Get Around Vietnam

Vietnam caters to all kinds of travelers, whether you are on a tight budget or like to travel in comfort.

Long Distance Travel in Vietnam

Open Tour buses and trains are the easiest ways to travel long distances in Vietnam. Both transport methods have overnight options, which allow you to save a few bucks on hotel accommodation. Tickets can also easily be bought at most travel agencies in Hanoi or HCMC.

12 Go Asia  is a good go-to site if you want to check train ticket prices or book tickets online.

But just a side-note, taking either of these options is not for everyone! The overnight trains and sleeper buses were by far some of the worst transport experiences I’ve ever had! Therefore, if you aren’t used to traveling long distances on stuffy trains or buses, instead opt flying. Domestic flights are cheap and frequent.

Short Distance Travel in Vietnam

Generally, taxis are very easy to flag down on the street. Grab Taxi is also a great alternative if you don’t like waiting around.

Although most major cities in Vietnam are very walkable, the traffic here is absolute chaos! Motorcycles often drive on sidewalks, and speeding is not uncommon. You might even find that something as simple as crossing the street to be painstakingly annoying. So, as a rule of thumb, follow the locals when attempting to cross busy streets!

In addition to taxis, bicycle rickshaws or motorbike taxis are excellent modes of transport for more daring travelers. But, remember to fix the price with the driver before going anywhere. You might also need to haggle a bit!

Staying Connected in Vietnam

When traveling to Vietnam, the very first thing we recommend getting is a local SIM card or pocket WIFI. If you aren’t sure which SIM card best suits your needs, these handy tips on choosing the best tourist SIM card in Vietnam will come in handy.

Most hotels do, however, have free WIFI, but if you are out and about, having access to the internet is essential – especially if you are checking train or bus schedules. Picking up a 4G SIM card at the airport is very easy. However, since low-cost carriers often arrive in the early morning hours or late at night, it might be best to grab a 4G SIM card online first. Here are some options:

• Arrival in Hanoi – Grab a 4G SIM card delivered straight to your hotel in Hanoi .
• Arrival in HCMC – Grab a  4G SIM delivered straight to your hotel in HCMC .

Scams are widespread in Vietnam, so it’s best to do a bit of research first. If you are booking day trips or transfers on the go, be sure to compare prices from a few local travel agents first. ( Finding a tour operator on the street in major hubs across Vietnam is also very easy – they’re everywhere! ). Alternatively, book tours and transfers online in advance through reputable sites or tour operators.

Language Barries

You’re not likely to have too much trouble with language barriers in major cities across the country. Most staff members at hotels, better-looking restaurants, and even at the busier markets can speak some English. But knowing a few key phrases can go a long way. Start with a few basics like:

Hello – Xin chào

Goodbye – Tạm biệt

Thank you – Cám ơn

How much is it? – Cái này giá bao nhiêu?

ATM’s are widely accessible across Vietnam, but generally, cash is king here. So be sure to carry enough money with you to avoid hefty international bank charges. Most hotels, tour operators, and fancier restaurants should accept debit or credit cards.

Haggling is standard practice at local markets and even at small stores selling local knick-knacks. So, don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills beforehand! Shopping around a bit first will also give you a good idea of how prices differ. Front entrance stores in main markets usually tend to ask foreigners steeper prices. Estimates are also often given in USD.

Tipping at restaurants is generally not required throughout Vietnam. Expect a 10% fee to be ( already ) worked into your bill at nicer looking cafes and restaurants. Hotel staff, such as porters often expect a small tip, especially from tourists. So remember to keep some small change or a few small dollar bills (USD) handy.

This probably goes without saying, but it’s best not to drink tap water when traveling in Asia . Instead opt to invest in a reusable water bottle that you can easily refill at your hotel’s water fountain.

In a rush? Pin this Vietnam Travel Itinerary for later.

The Best Places to Go in Vietnam for the Perfect Vietnam Itinerary

Great, now that you know the basics of planning a trip to Vietnam, let’s dive into this guide on where to go in Vietnam and what places not to miss on your Vietnam trip! Here is our list on the 20+ best places to visit in Vietnam – as recommended by fellow travel bloggers!

Best Places to visit in Northern Vietnam

Hanoi’s rich history and vibrant chaotic streets showcasing everything from broken down shophouses to colorful exteriors have long made it a pitstop on any northern Vietnam itinerary .

As the capital city, Hanoi offers visitors a glimpse into traditions still evident on the streets today. Here old and new seamlessly blend, making Hanoi a melting pot of culture, history, tradition, and authentic cuisine.

The Old Quarter is the beating heart of Hanoi, and probably where you’ll spend most of your time. With its deep-rooted history dating back more than 1000 years, the Old Quarter has something for everyone, no matter your interests!

Shopaholics and shutterbugs shouldn’t miss getting lost in the maze of shops and alleys lining the 36 Pho Phuong (merchant streets). Here you’ll find local merchants grouped by the wares they sell – from flowers and jewelry to silks and toys to name just a few. Here endless photo ops and a chance to experience the city like a real local awaits you around every corner. Those seeking to explore the natural beauty, albeit not any less chaotic side of the Old Quarter, be sure to head to Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hanoi is a huge must when planning where to go in Vietnam, and any visit here will be rewarded with unique foodie experiences , relaxing strolls, unique architecture, bountiful of museums, and even puppet shows.

Whatever you do though – don’t miss popping by Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, stepping foot in the Museum of Literature and getting a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape at the Lotte Tower Observation Deck . Grabbing a bowl of pho and an ice-cold bai hoi , or a Vietnamese egg coffee at one of the sidewalk cafes for some good old fashioned people watching should not be missed either.

Since Hanoi is a popular tourist hot spot, there’s no shortage of excellent accommodation. That said, a stay at the Metropole, a beautiful luxury hotel in Hanoi , will not disappoint. Make sure to spend at least 3-4 days in Hanoi. That way, you can get a real feel of what the city has on offer.

Pù Luông Nature Reserve

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For an off-the-beaten-track nature experience in Vietnam, Pu Luong Nature Reserve can’t be beaten.

Located southwest of Hanoi on the border between Thanh Hoa and Hoa Binh provinces, Pu Luong – with its pristine forests and rich biodiversity – has been protected since 1999. Thai, Muong and other ethnic minority communities live inside the Reserve. They are responsible for the towering rice terraces and bamboo waterwheels that make the area so iconic.

The Reserve is the perfect spot for trekking. Homestay accommodation can be found in small villages linked by forest paths, with waterfalls, rivers, and mountains to be discovered along the way. For something more relaxing, peaceful Ban Hieu village in the southeast corner of the Reserve is a great spot to unwind.

Pu Luong is more remote than nearby Mai Chau, which makes accessing the Reserve a bit tricky. There is no public transport, so the best way to go about this is by organizing a transfer through your accommodation – either from Ninh Binh (approximately 4.5 hours by car) or from Hanoi. It might cost you a little more time and money, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Ha Long Bay

If there is one natural wonder in Asia that should be on your travel radar, it’s Ha Long Bay. Famed for its limestone caves and caverns with centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites, this UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises of more than 1600 limestone islets in all shapes and sizes imaginable – all covered in lush green vegetation.

Although Ha Long Bay has become a victim of over tourism over the past few years, its iconic emerald waters and towering limestone karsts are well worth the 3 hour bus ride from Hanoi and even the crowds!

Most people visit Ha Long Bay on a day trip from Hanoi . It’s best to pre-book tickets online as it is a very popular landmark in Vietnam . A day trip typically lasts 12 hours and includes sailing around on a traditional junk boat, visiting Thien Cung Cave (aka the Heavenly Cave) and some kayaking through the floating markets and towering karsts.

For those who have a bit more time, consider joining one of the iconic Ha Long Bay cruises to spend a few nights onboard a junk boat on these peaceful waters.

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Cat Ba Island is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. The island is easily reached from Hanoi/Hai Phong by bus. You’ll first need to travel to Cat Hai (a small island). Then take a short ferry and finally hop on another bus that makes various stops on Cat Ba Island.

The main town on the island, also called Cat Ba, is a laid back place in a beautiful setting. From Cat Ba town, visitors can tour the island (best done via motorbike) or join a boat tour of Ha Long Bay.

Cat Ba National Park is a stunning area that covers a large chunk of the island. The geography of the park is like Ha Long Bay without the water. For a great view of the harbor and town below, a short hike up to an old fort (now with a monument at the summit) is the perfect place for a panorama of Cat Ba town.

Ha Long Bay is one of the most beautiful natural scenes in Southeast Asia, and Cat Ba Island is the perfect gateway to explore the area. Most visitors come to Cat Ba for a calmer alternative to see Ha Long Bay than from Ha Long city.

Two to three full days on Cat Ba Island is enough time to adequately explore the national park and the bay, although an extra day or so is welcome for most travelers.

Bai Tu Long Bay

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Most people who visit the North of Vietnam head to the magnificent Ha Long Bay. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. However, as a result of overtourism, it’s lost part of its charm. Nowadays, there are so many vessels moving around Ha Long Bay that your experience there ends up being crowded and you often hear loud music coming from the party boats – not to mention the high amount of plastic and garbage that floats around the sea.

One of the best things to do in Vietnam as an alternative to visiting Ha Long Bay is doing a tour of Bai Tu Long Bay. This is very similar in terms of sights and things to do, and in fact, you will be cruising across Ha Long Bay in bits. However, as the final destination is different, you will follow a different route and there will be fewer vessels around – so you will be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and you’ll have the views all to yourself

Tours of Bai Tu Long Bay normally last two full days. You will spend a full day on the boat doing things such as kayaking, swimming in the turquoise waters of the bay, exploring the many caves and visiting oyster farms. The second day is usually spent on a local island where you’ll get to sleep in a homestay. There, you’ll have a chance to cook dinner with the family, explore the island by bike and on foot, and get to know a bit of local culture before heading back to Hanoi.

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Located up in the mountains is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam – Sapa. If you are looking to get outside of the cities and into nature, there is no better choice than here.

To get to Sapa the best option is either by bus or train for Hanoi. Both are a long journey taking around 8 hours. Though, from my personal experience, the best option is the overnight train. Buses here can be hit or miss and for us, it was a complete miss. Also, bus crashes along these roads are fairly common.

Whether you prefer to relax with a massage or more thrill-seeking activities there is something to do for everyone. One of the most popular activities is hiking in Sapa . The views are incredible over the green rice terraces and there are different difficulty levels depending on your fitness. For our visit, we split our time between the main Sapa town, where you will find the restaurants and shops, and a local village called Ta Van. There are plenty of homestays in Ta Van where you can gain an understanding of local life by living with a family.

Make sure you spend at least 3 nights exploring Sapa and the surrounding villages. You will be astonished by the beauty which makes it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

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Ha Giang Province in the far north is one of the most rewarding places to visit in Vietnam .

Remote and rugged, Ha Giang is a mountainous landscape defined by limestone karsts and deep canyons. High-elevation roads with hairpin bends track between small towns and villages, where members of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities hold weekly produce markets. Hiking between villages via stacked rice terraces and fields of buckwheat is one of the best things to do in Ha Giang.

A popular way to see Ha Giang is by riding the Dong Van Pass and the Dong Van Loop, a famous road that many choose to navigate on a motorbike (either self-drive or easy rider). If you don’t ride, it’s also possible to visit Ha Giang by car .

Unlike in nearby Sapa, tourism in Ha Giang is still developing. A number of social enterprises and responsible tourism projects have sprung up in the area to ensure things develop the right way. It’s a little more challenging to get around – but the extra time and money visiting Ha Giang involves is worth it.

Independent travelers can reach Ha Giang’s largest town, Dong Van, by overnight bus from Hanoi. From there, you can rent motorbikes or travel by local bus to Sa Phin, Thai Phin and other villages on the loop, staying at homestays along the way. You’ll need a minimum of 3 or 4 days to complete the loop. Allow more time if you want to trek, which I highly recommend.

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Best Places to Visit in Central Vietnam

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Ninh Binh is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam. Not only can you take in breathtaking views from the 500 stairs of Mua Caves, but you can also take in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Trang An.

Trang An gives you the opportunity to explore towering limestone karsts via a 3-hour boat tour with a local guide. Explore beautiful hidden temples, take in the set from Kong: Skull Island, and squeeze your way under hundreds of meters of river caves for an unforgettable experience. Most importantly, Mua Caves Ecolodge gives you the chance to fall asleep to the sound of frogs, with not a car horn in earshot!

Get there by bus or train from Hanoi, and make this an overnight trip to really enjoy the stunning countryside. If you have the time, head to Chookies in Tam Coc for sundowners and great pizza. Your Vietnamese bucket list cannot miss out on Ninh Binh , a lush and epic paradise just outside of Hanoi!

Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park

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The Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park in Vietnam is home to the world’s largest cave and the oldest karst mountains in Asia. This 400 million year old site was only discovered 20 years ago and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003.

Not only has this incredible cave system made the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park the country’s top natural highlight, but the surrounding forest offers jungle trekking and mountain biking opportunities to the more adventurous. These additional activities have caused the area to become popularly known as the ‘Adventure Capital of Asia’.

There are over 500 caves in Phong Na, but only 30 are accessible to visitors. The most popular are the Phong Nha Cave, Tra Ang Cave, Paradise Cave, Dark Cave, Hang E Cave, Elephant Cave, Hang Over Cave and the Son Doong Cave. Some are easily accessible while others require a guide and even a zip line across a river!

The town of Phong Nha has lots of accommodation, restaurants, and an ATM. Buses run daily to various other towns. The closest town is Dong Hoi, which is a quick taxi ride away. You can also catch the train to Dong Hoi and then bus or taxi to the park.

The Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is so much more than just the caves. Therefore, I would recommend spending at least two or three days, to get the full experience.

Quang Tri Province and the Former DMZ

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Sandwiched between the popular tourist city of Hue to the south and the former DMZ to the north, sits Quang Tri Province, Vietnam. An off-the-beaten-path tourist destination, Quang Tri Province is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for history lovers.

Around Quang Tri Province travelers can visit a number of historical sites relating to the Vietnam war, including the famous former American base at Khe Sanh. Exploring the Vinh Moc tunnels along the former border between North and South Vietnam offers travelers a unique perspective on how the war was fought from the North. Finally, Truong Son Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Adorned with thousands of incense sticks to honor their memories, it is a sight to see. Just driving through the area, though, there are monuments to the war around almost every bend.

The sites around Quang Tri Province are spread out, which requires a local driver and guide who can explain what each site or monument means. Dong Ha, the main city in Quang Tri Province, is a 90-minute drive from Hue. Additionally, it is possible to take a train from Hue to Dong Ha.

Travelers looking to dive into the history of Quang Tri Province during the Vietnam War are encouraged to spend 3 to 5 days in the area. The travel time between war sites can vary from short drives to upwards of 2-3 hours.

Accommodations in the region are basic but slowly improving. The Province enjoys access to the sea with a sandy beach area located 10 miles from the center of Dong Ha. It’s a welcome relief from a long day of sightseeing.

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Hue is full of history and nothing captures it more than the great Imperial City of Hue , the fortified complex of royal buildings. This was the center of power during the Nguyen Dynasty, which united Vietnam in 1802 and was the last of the imperial dynasties to rule the country. Although many of the buildings inside the Imperial City were damaged during the Vietnam War, it will still take you several hours to see all the temples and palaces properly.

Other than the Imperial City (also known as the Citadel), the other most popular sights are the tombs of the emperors, which are stretched out along the Perfume River to the south of Hue. You can get a taxi or ride a bike but a lot of people like to visit them as part of a boat cruise. If you’re heading along the river, also look out for the striking Thien Me Pagoda.

Hue is not a particularly large city – especially from a tourist’s perspective – so you can easily walk around its centre. You only need a couple of days to see the main sights and explore a bit. The main north-south train stops in Hue and it’s also well connected by buses to places like Hoi An.

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If you are making your way up through Vietnam, then easily one of the best places to visit in Vietnam is Da Nang. We visited there as a day trip from the city of Hoi An and absolutely loved it! There is so much to do there, such as driving up and over Tho Quang, which is a large mountain located right by the water. From the top, the views are amazing, and it’s a great place to be for sunset.

This actually ended up being one of my favorite experiences from traveling Vietnam and would recommend it to everyone passing through. As well as this, you should visit the famous Marble Mountain, and explore ancient caves and temples hidden amongst the rocks. Another thing you should also do is visit the Golden Bridge.

It is possible to stay in Da Nang for a night or two, but you are also able to see all of the best sites on a day trip from Hoi An. We got there by moped, but you can also arrange bus transfers if you are passing through and wish to stay there.

Steeped in history, and any culture seekers dream, Hoi An is simply a must on your ‘where to go in Vietnam’ list. And for an excellent reason. This sleepy town packs a bunch of exciting activities for anyone craving small-town vibes, especially after experiencing the bustle of bigger cities in Vietnam.  

At the heart of Hoi An lies The Ancient Town, which also happens to be a world-renowned UNESCO site. The Old Town is home to everything from wooden Chinese shophouses and temples to colorful French colonial buildings, decorative Vietnamese tube houses and the mesmerizing Old Bridge built by the Japanese.

In short, you wouldn’t find a better place to experience rustic Vietnam than here, where a mix of eras and styles seamlessly blend together. Wander or even bike along quaint streets lined with colorful shophouses, hipster cafes, and funky art galleries. Or better yet, get lost in the maze of nooks and crannies which dot off around every corner. Keep in mind though: there is a small mandatory entrance fee of US$5. This goes towards maintaining and preserving the city. 

One of Hoi An’s biggest draws apart from its deep-rooted history is its arts. Whatever you do don’t leave Hoi An without taking a lantern making class and a getting tailor-made outfit. Those seeking to venture beyond the Old Town, don’t miss one of the glorious sandy beaches nearby. Biking to An Bang Beach is a popular activity for sunshine seekers and beachgoers. Foodies also won’t be disappointed as Hoi An is one of the best places to enjoy authentic street food in Vietnam. To get a real feel of the town and attractions, spend at least 2-3 days here.

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Best Places to Visit Vietnam – Southeast Coast

Nha Trang is one of Vietnam’s premier beach destinations and a must for anyone looking for a cheap beach vacation while in Vietnam. Spend your days lounging around Tran Phu Beach or dipping in the calm waters of the South China Sea. For those wanting to enjoy the beach vibes with a cocktail in hand, drop by the Sailing Club for a well-deserved sundowner.

Excitement seekers, on the other hand,  can try their hand at kitesurfing, surfing, snorkeling or cycling along the promenade, nearby. Nha Trang also won’t disappoint shopaholics! Head to the Dam Market which is the perfect spot to pick up local trinkets and cheap knockoffs.  

The Vinpearl Amusement Park on Hon Tre Island is also a great spot to spend a few hours. Be sure to also visit the massive aquarium and get a bird’s-eye view of the bay by cable car! 

Besides these, Nha Trang also offers visitors a glimpse into age-old traditions and boasts some great outdoor activities. Pop by the religious towers of Po Nagar Cham Towers for breathtaking views over the Cai River and a peek into this Hindu holy place of worship. If you have a bit more time, consider visiting the Ba Ho Waterfalls for a quick dip in the fresh mountain waters. Or better yet, head to the Hon Khoi Salt Fields for fantastic photo ops.

Visiting the nearby hot springs and chilling in a mud bath is another popular treat in Nha Trang. So if you fancy getting yourself covered in mud definitely give it a try! 

No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in Nha Trang – making it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam! Spend at least 2-3 days here to really take in the sunshine and enjoy the ocean.

Mũi Né is a famous beach town, well-known for its quaint fishing village and excellent adventure sports. Although Mũi Né might seem unassuming to most travelers to Vietnam, this weird town (which is just a 4km strip along the coast of Southeast Vietnam) is packed with golden sand beaches and a haven for adrenaline junkies.

Kitesurfing, sailing, and windsurfing are just a few of the water sports you can enjoy here! Stop by White Sand Dune where hopping on a quad-bike is a favorite amongst locals and adrenaline junkies. Then head over to Red Dune for the best sunset in town. Some vendors sell local snacks and coconuts near the parking lot, so be sure to grab some refreshments before heading up the dune! The Fairy Stream – where red clay formations and lush vegetation make an exciting backdrop along a gentle stream – is another popular spot for nature seekers.

Mũi Né might not be on every traveler’s destination hit-list when planning their Vietnam itinerary, but it’s a good pitstop on your travels to or from Ho Chi Minh City.

Dirt cheap sleeper buses run daily between HCMC and Phan Thiet , while shared shuttle buses between HCMC and Mũi Né are also available for a few bucks more. The journey takes about 5 hours.

Mũi Né has excellent beaches and an endless supply of adventure sports opportunities. However, unless you’ve booked yourself into one of the high-end resorts, don’t spend too much time here. There’s honestly not that much to do, and you can quickly get your adrenaline fix, enjoy some beach time and see the main sights in a day or two.

Recommended by Mary | Move to Vietnam

Vung Tau is one of the places that you don’t normally see in travel guides about Vietnam, but what you don’t know is that it’s a little hidden gem not far from Ho Chi Minh City. A place where you can surf, hike or simply have a few lazy days between your long and exhausting trip – a place to breathe a little.

Vung Tau is not crowded nor expensive, so you can still enjoy your Vietnam trip. There are hostels for as cheap as $5 or private rooms for as low as $10. You can also rent a motorbike for $5 or less a day. Since it’s a beach town, expect that every restaurant offers fresh seafood dishes without spending too much.

You can either come from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau (about 2-3 hour drive) or from Mui Ne. Either way, you can reach it by bus or motorbike. From Ho Chi Minh City, there is also an option to take a ferry ride.

Also Read: The Best Islands to Visit in Asia

Best Places to visit in Vietnam – Southwest Highlands

Recommended by Rebecca | She Roams Solo

Dalat is a wonderful little surprise. After spending your days sweating like crazy, the cool spring weather that Dalat brings will be a welcomed change. The houses of Dalat will surprise and enchant you. The European feel is charming. There is something for everyone in Dalat from those who want to relax, be adventurous, learn the culture and more. Dalat is a great place for solo travelers, couples and families .

There is plenty to do around Dalat but perhaps the most thrilling thing to do is get on a motorcycle or scooter and ride to, or from Dalat. The green hills and valleys are memorable, creating scenes that are sure to stay with you for a long time to come. If you are not confident enough to ride yourself you can jump on the back with a local tour guide.

Another outstanding experience in Dalat is the Mr. Rot Secret Tour. I can’t tell you too much about this tour as it is a secret. Make sure you get the original and not the copies that Vietnam is susceptible to. You are guaranteed an amazing time, plenty of laughs, and a chance to learn more about Vietnamese culture.

The crazy house and the 100 roof bar are simply unmissable! These are places you will not see anywhere else in Vietnam and are both creative, genius, and wonderful.

Adventure junkies can also do canyoning, which is famous in Dalat. 

Ho Chi Minh City

As the former capital of Vietnam and often referred to as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is diverse in all senses imaginable. From its vibrant streets and lively markets selling all kinds of bits and bobs to its street food and deep-rooted history – any visit here is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Ho Chi Minh City might be many things, but the one thing that is bound to leave a lasting impression on you is the absolute chaotic bustle of the city. Which oddly enough seems to be organized chaos!

The streets are filled with different smells and sights. Not to mention scooters and motorbikes racing past, all eagerly honking their way through the dense traffic. Navigating yourself here might be a tad harder than the rest of Vietnam.  So if there is one tip, I can give you – watch out for the scooters on the sidewalks! If you aren’t comfortable walking, Grab taxis are plentiful.

As for things to do, the options are endless! And any visit here will quickly reveal why HCMC is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. Get a closer look at the city’s pivotal role in the Vietnam War by stepping foot in the War Remnants Museum. Or pop by the Notre-Dame Cathedral – one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. A short stroll away, you can drop by the Saigon Central Post Office where Ho Chi Minh’s picture is on display. The Independence Palace and the Saigon Skydeck are other activities not to miss on your visit here.

Also, don’t miss the chance to shop till you drop at Ben Thanh Market – one of the best spots to hunt for local souvenirs! But don’t forget to haggle!  

Best Places to visit in the Mekong Delta

No visit to Vietnam would be complete without cruising along the Mekong River Delta. If you are pressed for time, Cái Bè is the perfect solution.

This small fishing village that is home to stilt houses, unique riverscapes, and delicious fresh produce is just a short 2-hour trip away from Ho Chi Minh City and easily explored on a day trip .

Day trips can be booked practically anywhere in HCMC, and travel agencies offer numerous packages to suit every traveler’s pocket. Usually, these will also include stopping by the world-renowned Cu Chi Tunnels where you can get a glimpse into what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers on the front lines.

Cruising along the Mekong River, canoeing through the mysterious river canals, visiting the floating market, cycling along with lush greenery and sampling some of the local tropical fruit are just a few of the unique things you can enjoy on a day trip to Cái Bè.

Cái Bè doesn’t offer much in terms of accommodation, but it’s a great place to visit in Vietnam even if it is just for a day!

Recommended by Claire | Claire’s Footsteps

Not so many travelers make it down to Can Tho in Southern Vietnam, but it’s well worth adding it to your best places to visit Vietnam itinerary. Located about four hours south from Ho Chi Minh City, or four and a half hours from Ha Tien, the southern border with Cambodia, Can Tho is the biggest city in the Mekong Delta area.

The Mekong Delta region grows most of Vietnam’s fruit, and is a prosperous area for rice farming, with 3-4 yields per year.

Life here understandably revolves around the river; so as far as attractions in Can Tho go, you’ll want to head out to the water! It’s possible to see the local floating market at sunrise, head to the land market, cycle around the countryside and tour a local cocoa plantation.

There are also some museums and temples in Can Tho city, but a big part of visiting the Mekong Delta area is just relaxing and enjoying the surrounding nature. It’s one of the most beautiful parts of the country, along with friendly people who love to chat to visitors (because Can Tho is actually quite a large city, many locals can speak great English).

Phu Quoc Island

Recommended by Ania |The Travelling Twins

Phu Quoc is the biggest Vietnamese island. It is in the extreme south-west, actually closer to the coast of Cambodia than Vietnam’s mainland. Ho Chi Minh City was hot and hectic and I was looking for some beach time. We arrived by air, but there are ferries too. The island is a Special Economic Zone, which means that tourists can stay 30 days without a visa.

Phu Quoc was perfect for our week’s holiday within a holiday.  We enjoyed clean beaches, entertainment parks, a modern aquarium, and zoo safaris.  My girls especially loved the Bee Farm, and there was even a night market for those times when we found we were missing the city after all. The food is delicious, with any number of options to enjoy a yummy prawn barbecue against an ocean sunset backdrop.

To top it all even transport is fun.  Phu Quoc is the only place in Vietnam where I would recommend hiring a scooter. Traffic is minimal, and the island is small enough to explore by yourself.  We went in true Asian style with the whole brood perched on one seat.

The island has a full spectrum of accommodation too. Choose from very simple and inexpensive home-stays to a five-star resort.  We had a great time on our break in Phu Quoc with kids , and we will be going again for sure.

Where to Go in Vietnam in Conclusion

As you can see, Vietnam is home to a whole host of amazing places to visit and things to do! While this post barely scratches the surface of awesome places to travel to in Vietnam, it undeniably covers all the must-see places to add to your Vietnam itinerary! Have you ever traveled to Vietnam? What’s your favorite place to visit in Vietnam?

Well, there you have it – the ABSOLUTE best places to go to in Vietnam! If you have any suggestions to add to this list of must-visit places in Vietnam, let me know in the comments below.

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May 5, 2020 at

I simply love Vietnam and as a pilot would visit there on many an occasion. I even managed to get in a tour of the tunnels, totally awesome! The beauty of Vietnam, the friendly people and the food are simply exquisite.

May 16, 2020 at

Thanks for taking the time to comment, Rick. Vietnam is indeed an incredible destination to visit. Glad you got a chance to see the tunnels – it was one of the highlights of our trip!

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10 Of The Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

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

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

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

The Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

1. largest island of vietnam: phu quoc.

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

2. Vietnam’s Biggest City: Ho Chi Minh 

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

3. Lost Imperial City Of Vietnam: Hue

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

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

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

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

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

5. Largest City In Central Vietnam: Da Nang

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

6. Hiking Capital Of Vietnam: Sa Pa

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

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

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

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

8. The Rice Bowl Of Vietnam: Mekong Delta

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

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

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

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

10. A Traditional Fishing Village: Mui Ne

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

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

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

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

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12 Best Places In Vietnam | Bucket List Destinations 2024

Vietnam – the next top destination.

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

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

Table of Contents

Majestic mountain destinations.

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

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

1. Fansipan, Sa Pa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Ha Long Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

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

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

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

Sun and Sea Destinations

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

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

5. Phu Quoc Island

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

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

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

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

6. Con Dao Islands

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

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

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

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

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

7. Nha Trang

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

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

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

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

Culture Filled Destinations

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Mekong Delta

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

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

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

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

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

Amazing City Destinations

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

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

10. Da Nang / Hoi An

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

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

Discover Vietnam

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

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

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22 Best Things to Do in Vietnam In 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: January 1, 2024

Visiting Vietnam is unlike many other destinations, mixing a fascinating blend of adventure, history, and scenic beauty that is unmatched. If you want a fascinating adventure in Southeast Asia with a blend of past and present, Vietnam is the place for you! There are so many things to do in Vietnam; you could easily spend two months exploring its countryside. We spent 30 days in Vietnam, and even that was barely enough time to see everything this diverse nation offers. 

Table of Contents

Top things to do in Vietnam

Be it the mesmerizing views of Sapa and Ha Long, the fascinating history of the DMZ and Cu Chi Tunnels, or the busier hubs of Hanoi, Vietnam will “WOW” the adventurous spirit in you. Here are our favorite things to do in Vietnam.

We worked our way from Southern Vietnam to the North, starting f rom the border of Cambodia. Vietnam has some amazing sites to see. From beautiful natural wonders to fantastic shopping, mountain adventures, and chill-out beach life, Vietnam has something to offer for everyone.

The list of things to do in Vietnam is endless, and you could visit Vietnam again and again. But this guide will help you plan the must-see attractions and top places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Visit Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a wonder of nature in the South China Sea, where thousands of islands jut out of the turquoise water, creating a never-ending horizon of mountains.

Taking a boat tour of Vietnam is like entering a mythical world of emerald waters and towering karst formations dot the horizon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, is a top highlight for any Vietnam itinerary. You can book your 2-day cruise here.

You can kayak through hidden lagoons, explore magnificent caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung, or even find a secluded cove for a swim. Halong Bay is one of the top things to do in Vietnam, and it was our most memorable experience. We explored the labyrinth on a small teak cabin cruiser, where we had our private bunk and were treated to a feast. 

Sleeping in the bay surrounded by these sleeping giants while looking into the clear night sky is a unique experience Read: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay – How to Choose Your Vietnam Cruise?

2. Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is a slice of paradise that’s perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of adventure and relaxation to their Vietnam trip. Tucked away in the Gulf of Tonkin, just a stone’s throw from the famous Halong Bay, this laid-back island is all about striking scenery with its cool jungles, awesome limestone cliffs, and dreamy beaches.

Cruises often include a visit to one of the caves on Cat Ba Island during our Halong Bay cruise. There are four interesting caves on the island. Hospital Cave served as a hospital for wounded soldiers and a bomb shelter for the Vietnamese. Trung Trang Cave is the largest cave on the island, and Hoa Cuong Cave is known for its beautiful stalactites.

If you’re into snorkeling, the clear waters around the island are a treat. For those who love a good trek, the trails through Cat Ba National Park are a must-try – you never know what wildlife you might spot! And hey, if chilling on the beach is more your thing, Cat Ba’s got you covered. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to hop over to the gorgeous Lan Ha Bay for some fun on the water.

3. Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay is an alternative to Halong Bay for travelers who love to discover the road less traveled. Nestled just off the beaten path of its famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long offers a more laid-back, authentic experience. Read more: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay – How to Choose Your Cruise?

It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds while cruising on a traditional junk boat, surrounded by serene emerald waters and dramatic limestone karsts. You can explore hidden caves, visit fishing villages, and even find secret beaches to have all to yourself.

The vibe here is all about taking it easy and savoring the moment. Whether you’re kayaking in the bay’s calm waters or just chilling on the deck of your boat, Bai Tu Long Bay is the ultimate place to relax and soak in some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Check out prices and availability here.

A journey through the jaw-dropping mountain scenery of Sapa took our breath away in more ways than one! Trekking through the high rice terraces near a mountain town near the Chinese border feels like you are walking through a postcard. 

We stayed with the hill tribes, visiting ethnic minority villages of the Hmong, Red Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho Peoples. We trekked for three days through the vast rice terraces of this rugged land. The beauty is overwhelming as every corner I turn leaves me more amazed. 

Giant terraces filled with water glistened in the sun for as far as we could see.  Water buffalo graze in the fields, and villagers dressed in traditional handmade clothing greeted us as we walked along the path.

The villagers live by the old ways here. They harness water from the mountain to use as irrigation, they hand weave their own material, and they grow their own rice. They are a people truly at one with the land. Book this highly rated two day trek to a Homestay.

5. Rice Fields of Tam Coc

The enchanting Rice Fields of Tam Coc is a hidden gem in Vietnam’s picturesque Ninh Binh province. Often referred to as the ‘Halong Bay on Land’, Tam Coc is a dreamy landscape of lush green rice fields surrounded by towering limestone karsts, best explored by a leisurely boat ride along the Ngo Dong River.

As you glide through the water, you’ll be captivated by the tranquil beauty of the rice paddies, with local farmers tending to their fields and the majestic hills providing a stunning backdrop. Each season brings a different hue to the fields, from emerald green in the spring to golden yellow during harvest time.

Tam Coc isn’t just about the scenery; it’s a place to connect with the peaceful rhythm of rural Vietnamese life. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the natural beauty here is simply photogenic. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just someone seeking a serene escape, the Rice Fields of Tam Coc promise an experience that’s both soothing and visually spectacular, making it a top pick for your Vietnam itinerary.

Hanoi is hectic and overwhelming; even crossing the street can be an adventure. We sat on a second-floor terrace watching people take their lives in their hands as they crossed the road a busy intersection like a game of Frogger. It was a lot of hours of amusement.

In Hanoi, you also see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum honoring Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern Vietnam. Other things not to miss in Hanoi are the Magical Water Puppet Show, continuing a thousand-year-old tradition, the temple of literature, and you must sample Vietnamese food on a food tour of Hanoi. This highly rated Street Food Tour takes you on a walk through the old quarter of Hanoi with a local guide. Sample street food and local favorites. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

We explored Hanoi’s sights, eating French baguettes and sipping lattes on Hoan Klem Lake. This is a great place to escape the hectic pace of the city. Hanoi has a rich French colonial past; to see it, you must explore Hanoi’s old quarter.

A great option is to combine a Street food and Water Puppet Show Combo – Sample delicious Vietnamese, learn about Hanoi’s unique food culture, enjoy the night view of Hoan Kiem Lake and finish off with the water puppet show. Easy cancellation on tours with 24 hours’ notice. Read More: The 29 Best Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

7. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon ) is a bustle with markets, food stalls, and nightclubs. This is where our Vietnam adventure began, and it was an eye-opener of a first stop. A city of 7 million people, Ho Chi Minh City, is the heart of Vietnamese nightlife, with Karaoke bars, nightclubs, and many places offering cheap beer and cocktails.

Trishaw drivers won’t take no for an answer as they follow you down the street looking to make their fare. Where shopping is the main priority and dodging touts is a full-time job.

The city has French colonial buildings mixed between neon lights and skyscrapers. The most popular tourist attractions are probably the Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Binh and Tay Market. See more things to do in Ho Chi Min City here.

Search for Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

8. War Remnants Museum

No one can forget the Vietnam War, and there are many tributes and places to visit in Vietnam that pay respect to the country’s war history. In Ho Chi Minh City, The War Remnants Museum is an emotional look at the effects of war. A stand-out display was one that honored photographers and correspondents who lost their lives covering the war.

Other attractions to see in Ho Chi Minh City are the Reunification Palace, which is the site where the Vietnam War symbolically came to an end. We walked by the American Embassy, known for the infamous rooftop helicopter evacuations after the fall of Saigon, and we checked out the thriving waterfront with luxury hotels, nightclubs, and the bustling Mekong River.

Paying tribute to its French colonial past, the city is also home to a cathedral named after Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Check out all the things to do at The Best of Ho Chi Minh City

9. The Cu Chi Tunnels

The fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels are an amazing day trip from Ho Chi Minh where you can experience what the Viet Cong soldiers and fighters went through living life underground during the war. You can book this highly rated tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City.

Agent Orange, napalm, and constant bombing wiped out the jungle during the Vietnam War, but it is now lush and green and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. Watch our Video inside the Cu Chi Tunnels

Our guide showed us how the Vietnamese would escape in the jungle and camouflage the entrances with termite hills. We learned that they fought in sandals made from automobile tires to avoid jungle rot. And we learned how they wore checkered scarves to announce that they were fighting for the North and how farmers snuck food to soldiers.

It was then into the claustrophobic original tunnel to crawl for 100m in darkness to get a sense of just how uncomfortable the conditions were. Read more at The Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam

10. Cruise the Mekong Delta

The Mekong River is a massive river spanning 4500km of diverse wildlife and incredible views, starting in China and flowing through Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam before ending at the Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. One of the best things to do in Vietnam is to book a tour of the Mekong Delta to see its floating markets,

Along the way, you will find floating markets selling local produce and everything from fruit and vegetables to conical hats and fake clothing, unlike the markets in Ho Chi Minh City.

At small factories, we learned how to make coconut candy and rice paper, being offered a taste to entice us into buying a souvenir. It is all a little contrived at times as they try very hard to make you purchase something, but the scenery is incredible, and watching local life unfold is fascinating.

Book a full-day  Mekong Delta Tour , including a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Free cancelation for a full refund within 24 hours of activity.

Ho Chi Min City Tour companies offer great package deals fighting for tourist dollars to all destinations. Life remains unchanged in the Cu Chi Tunnels as farmers still bring their produce to the floating market and people still wash their clothes by hand on its banks. 

11. Beautiful Beaches of Mui Ne

Our first beach stop in Vietnam was Mui Ne, and it was our favorite. A spectacular beachfront where kite surfers ride the waves in its windy bay, and the sunsets here are some of the most spectacular you will ever see. The high winds whip and swirl the clouds throughout the day, and when dusk sets in, the setting sun illuminates the sky with deep reds and bright yellows.

Mui Ne may have beautiful beaches, but the highlight of the visit was going to the sand dunes. A short jeep ride takes you out to the town’s main attraction of giant rolling hills of sand surrounded by green fields looking as though a bit of the Sahara has been dropped into South East Asia. We walked to the top in the scorching heat and took a thrilling magic carpet ride down its sandy banks.

Tour operators can take you out for some sandboarding and hiking on the massive dunes.

12. Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island is closer to Cambodia than Vietnam, but it is a part of the Vietnamese territory. When we were in Vietnam, it was a little off the beaten path and reserved for backpackers, but it has gained in status thanks to its gorgeous beaches, crystal clear waters, and fantastic nightlife. There are plenty of things to do in Phu Quoc. It now has high end resorts offering jet skiing, scuba diving, fishing, and personal boat hire are all great options.

It has acquired a bit of a legendary status with backpackers in Vietnam due to its stunning beaches, clear seas, and great bars.

Image by by photographer Réhahn. See his full photostory of Vietnam here.

Hoi An has a thousand-year history luring visitors to its ancient buildings along the Thu Bon River. The river has been attracting traders from the South China Sea for centuries. This ancient town is a blend of Asian and colonial architecture with sidewalk cafés and cobblestone streets.

If you happen to be in Hoi An during the Vietnamese New Year (Tet Festival), you will witness thousands of lanterns lining the roads.

It is truly a photographer’s dream with photo opportunities of the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Lantern Festival, and the contrast between Chinese tube houses and French colonial buildings.

Tailor-made Clothes in Hoi An

Hoi An is a favorite of many travelers to Vietnam to have some tailor-made clothes whipped up in a matter of hours! Choosing a shop can be difficult and we were standing in the rainy street confused when a lady approached us and said to follow her. Reluctantly, we followed her through winding streets and alleyways when we finally came to her shop in the market.

We proceeded to pick out patterns and styles while an army of women took our measurements and aided us in choosing materials and colors from walls of fabric. We spent way too much money and got caught up in the frenzy of buying, knocking off several days of our budget on 25 kilos of clothes that we sent home to Canada.

Word of caution: Take your time, and don’t get talked into anything. Know what you want to be made and ask for it to be double-stitched. We were very happy with our purchases and are glad we had clothes made in Vietnam.

14. Mud Bath in Nha Trang

The next beach stop took us to Nha Trang. It’s a far busier beach town with high-rise buildings, giant resorts, nightclubs, and fine dining.  This long stretch of beach is well-developed and touts are everywhere selling jewelry, hats, t-shirts, and of course cheap photocopied books.

We took a day to visit the Thap Ba Hot Springs where we took a dip in the mud baths to bask in its cool medicinal mud.  There’s a therapeutic mineral waterfall, hydrotherapy, and a swimming pool. All of my travel-weary bones and muscles are treated to a relaxing day of pampering and nurturing, preparing me for the days to come. The mud baths are an affordable day at the spa and a very unique experience.

15. Dragon’s Bridge of Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam’s vibrant coastal city, is an absolute must-visit for anyone hitting up Vietnam. It’s an awesome blend of modern vibes and traditional charm set against a backdrop of stunning beaches and rolling mountains. What’s not to love? Whether you’re into surfing the waves at My Khe Beach, exploring the Marble Mountains, or just enjoying the laid-back beachside atmosphere, Da Nang has something for everyone. And let’s not forget the city’s iconic Dragon Bridge – it breathes fire and water, which is as cool as it sounds!

Dragon Bridge is the longest bridge in Vietnam, spanning 666 meters across the Han River. Seeing it at night is a must as it lights up and the dragon spits fire and water during festivals and on weekends.

Foodies, you’re in for a treat here, too. The local cuisine is out of this world, with street food stalls and upscale restaurants serving up some of the best flavors in Vietnam. Plus, Da Nang’s central location makes it the perfect base for day trips to Hoi An or the imperial city of Hue.

16. Golden Bridge

Located an hour and a half from the city, the Golden Bridge is one of Vietnam’s newest and most jaw-dropping attractions in the Da Nang region. Architect Vu Viet Hong created it to “ invoke the sensation of walking along a thread stretching through the hands of God. ”

This attraction is part of the Sun World Ba Na Hills Amusement Park. It was created strictly to lure tourists to the area, and it worked! It wasn’t yet created when we were in Vietnam, but we had to include it because it is not to be missed! Standing 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level, it extends over the edge of a cliff. The Ba Na Hills used to be a hill station for French colonialists

17. Imperial City of Hue

Hue is located in Central Vietnam and is a treasure trove of history and culture, making it a must-visit for anyone touring Vietnam. This ancient city, once the imperial capital, is home to the stunning Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s like stepping back in time.

Walking through the sprawling complex of temples, pavilions, and museums, you’ll get a real sense of Vietnam’s royal past. Here, you’ll find the tombs of the Ancient emperors. The Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Vietnam’s answer to China’s Forbidden City. The walled fortress was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945.

But there’s more to Hue than just its historical sites. The city is also famous for its unique Vietnamese cuisine, offering dishes you won’t find anywhere else in the country – think rich, flavorful broths and delicately crafted bites.

Plus, the serene Perfume River adds a picturesque charm to the city, perfect for a leisurely boat ride or evening stroll along its banks. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to explore a less-traveled path, Hue has something special to offer.

18. DMZ Tour

The DMZ in Central Vietnam was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam, and it is here that you can tour many war relics. Hue was also where we booked a full-day tour to explore the DMZ zone.

If you are a history buff, this is a fascinating tour. We stopped at the former headquarters of the US Marines, Dong Ha, and famous battlegrounds like Hamburger Hill. (there was a movie made about this battle.)

We also visited another set of tunnels that were much bigger than the Cu Chi Tunnels. The Vinh Moc Tunnels were a strategic point for the Vietnamese to hide from American bombers.

19. Caves of Phong Nha

If you have time to plan and some deep pockets, the caves of Phong Nha are a must. Hang Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, and there is a long waiting list to see it! Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site can be visited on a day trip or an expedition of up to 5 days.

Discovered in 2009 in the Quang Binh province, this massive cave boasts sections up to 200 meters high and 150 meters wide, complete with its own weather system and unique ecosystem. The journey to Son Doong Cave is a multi-day trek, usually spanning 4 to 5 days, and involves hiking, camping, river crossings, and navigating the rugged terrain of the national park.

There are other caves in Phong Naha besides Son Doong so if you don’t have the money or time to spare, you can also check out Hang En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Hang Tien Cave, Hang Va Cave, and Nuoc Nut Cave.

All tours are conducted by licensed tour operators with experienced guides to ensure safety and minimal environmental impact. The tours often involve local porters and guides, providing economic benefits to the community and promoting sustainable tourism.

20. Ngo Dong River

The Ngo Dong River in Vietnam is a serene escape that’s perfect for travelers looking to soak up some unique Vietnamese scenery. Picture this: you’re gently rowing down a calm, winding river flanked by lush, green rice fields and towering limestone cliffs. It’s like stepping into a postcard!

Located in the scenic Tam Coc region, a ride along the Ngo Dong River is all about embracing the peaceful vibes and breathtaking views. It’s where you’ll get those awesome photos of local life, with farmers working in the fields and fishers casting their nets. And don’t forget about the incredible limestone caves you’ll pass through – it’s like nature’s own cathedral.

Whether you’re a solo explorer or with your family, a trip down the Ngo Dong River is a must-do. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s an experience that lets you connect with the tranquil beauty of Vietnam in a way that’s both relaxing and unforgettable. So, when you’re planning your Vietnam adventure, make sure to add the Ngo Dong River to your itinerary – it’s a highlight that’s not to be missed!

21. the Central Highlands

The Central Highlands’ cool climate, especially in towns like Da Lat, known for its French colonial architecture, flower gardens, and pine-covered hills, offers a refreshing retreat from Vietnam’s tropical heat. Da Lat is particularly famous for its adventure sports like canyoning, mountain biking, and hiking.

The Central Highlands of Vietnam a region of serene beauty known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and ethnic minority villages. This part of Vietnam provides a stark contrast to the country’s bustling cities.

Here there are opportunities for trekking and exploring the numerous national parks like Yok Don and Bidoup Nui Ba.

The region is also a haven for coffee lovers, as it’s the heart of Vietnam’s coffee-growing industry. You can visit plantations in Buon Ma Thuot, the coffee capital of Vietnam, and enjoy freshly brewed local varieties.

Cultural experiences abound in the Central Highlands. Visitors can immerse themselves in the unique traditions of the local ethnic groups, such as the Ede and M’nong, by visiting their villages, experiencing their traditional gong music, and learning about their way of life.

The region’s markets, especially in towns like Kon Tum and Pleiku, are vibrant and colorful, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the highlanders.

22. Indulge in Vietnamese Cuisine

Did you know that Vietnamese culture is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia? This impressive feat has given the Vietnamese people plenty of time to master their art of cooking. Today, the best Vietnamese cuisine is in restaurants around the world.

One thing you’ll find that you will eat constantly is Pho, their rice noodle soup that is beyond delicious. But there are plenty of dishes to try with influences from its French Colonial times and ancient traditions. From Vietnamese egg coffee to Banh mi, a French stuffed baguette and staple rice noodles, the cuisine of Vietnam is as diverse as its regions. Local food changes as you travel from northern Vietnam to the south, and it’s easy to dig into traditional cuisine at street stalls and small cafes.

And these are the best things to do in Vietnam. Have you been? What do you suggest for the top Vietnam attractions?

Plan Your Next Trip to Vietnam With these Resources

The 29 Best Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

32 Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Breathtaking Pictures of Vietnam
• Places to Visit in Southern Vietnam

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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23 thoughts on “22 Best Things to Do in Vietnam In 2024”

Great info, Honeymoon destinations is great outstanding experience for couples where they are thought, life planning, regarding budget, important sharing info between with them. On the other hand, Thailand, Hong Kong, Dubai, Switzerland are more remarkable places for honeymoon. Thanks for exciting information.

A very helpful article, the perfect travel destination for a 30-day trip in Vietnam. Thank you.

Yeah I think I’m gonna have to pass on the Cu Chi tunnels… lol… or at least the claustrophobic parts. Just watching the videos of people going through them makes me all uncomfortable.

Thanks for sharing such an amazing & informative blog which will surely be a big help to those travelling to the vietnam. There are many amazing places to visit and out of many the beach resorts in the southern part of the country is very popular among the tourists.There one can find many beautiful beach resorts which provides top class hospitality & great food.

All the sites in Vietnam are amazing,especially cu chi tunnels.I am happy to say because this is in my bucket list.This article is very useful for me ,thanks.

Awesome article, i would love to visit CU CHI TUNNELS and feel how it was for soldiers during the war Do we have to pay for firing?

Awesome list! Exactly why Vietnam is my favourite country!

Hello, Looks like a great trip you had! We are planning to go to Vietnam in the end of February and then 3 weeks ahead. Can I ask what time a year you went? We are curious to know if Sapa is worth visiting that time a year? Thank & best regards, Helle from Copenhagen, DK

Enjoying food is also one of the memorable experiences when traveling to Vietnam. If you have the opportunity to come here, do not forget to eat pho, beef vermicelli, bread, pancakes.

For those who does not know. Sinh Cafe is not a popular company, it’s a popular brand. Many small agent buy the name of this brand to make business. They are not all of 1 company!

Discovering Halong Bay by a cruise trip is an amazing experience. The boat I stayed ( La Pinta cruise) was so clean and modern. The boat dropped by Viet Hai fishing village then we did bicycle tour around. Such an interesting activity.

Hi Dave And Deb thanks for writing the informative blog.One should definitely go through the blog for a brief knowledge before travelling to vietnam.The southern part of the vietnam is my favorite part as it has many beautiful beaches and beach resorts are located in phan theit and mui ne.

thanks for the post. My last trip to VN was 10 days covering major tourist attractions in major cities. This coming trip like you said you can spend 2 mos in vn exploring the countryside is what I plan on. Any thoughts on which village and what factors to consider going to these hidden gems. thx for the reply

Hello, I’m Vietnamese, Thank you for visit my country. I see you have fun in Vietnam. I live in Hanoi, I went to Sapa, Hoi An, Hue like you. I hope I can go Nha Trang someday. I’m a travel bloger, too. This is my blog: https://hotieugiang.com/ , when you come back to Vietnam, I’m so proud of giving you good informations.

I love the Northwest and Northeast Vietnam. The landscapes are so stunning. Besides, I am also impressed Halong Bay. I had a night on the cruise, and It is the special time for me. Hope to visit again.

Thanks for your experience.

Hi Dave and Deb, I am about to book my tickets to Vietnam for 13 days but as you said, not enough. As I followed your tips when I made the Everest Base Camp and was most happy with your tips, I ask you: -How long is the minimum to see some top sites I’m Vietnam from top to bottom ? -Is it better start in Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi? -I feel claustrophobic in tunnels. Is any thing else to do on the tour to the Co Chi Tunnels rather then enter in it? -Is the Hop on Hop off buses too prone to be assaulted? Sorry for so many questions but I am going on my own and I want to make sure not to incur in unnecessary risk. Thanks a lot. Have wonderful time in Bhutan! Jacy

Vietnam is so beautiful, I had a trip to discover a district – Hoang Su Phi in the Northeast Vietnam. It is so stunning. I met the local people, they are ethnic minority in Hoang Su Phi and enjoyed very delicious meal with them. That is my memorable moment.

The best time to visit Vietnam is the end of each year, although Vietnam is beautiful around year. Another point is Nothern Vietnam is one of the best places for adventure tour.

Thanks for your useful article.

Hi Anhhh, thanks! we did love our time in Vietnam. Halong bay is one of the most beautiful sights on the planet and we look forward to going back one day.

We are heading to Vietnam tonight – via overnight bus from Kunming China. First stop – Sapa – we booked a tour with a local all femal H’mong company and are very excited for it! Will have to look into the hop on hop off bus ticket – sounds like a great deal!

So admiring. Sound like your trip covered most of the famous places in Vietnam. Did you guys have good time there? I want to have the same trip as well. Halong bay is my favorite destination. I love sleeping in the cruise with thousands of limestone covering outside. unique experience. Mui Ne is wonderful too. A magnificent place. Nowhere else that you can see such an amazing beauty.

The ATM’s are easy to use and you can find them in all large cities. The hop on hop off busses are easy to find in all towns. Happy Tour and Sinh Cafe are the popular ones. Just take out the maximum amount of money from the ATm’s about 2 Million Dong, it will last you and it is a lot of bills to carry around at once. Definitely go to Ha Long Bay and Sapa. Stay in a homestay in Sapa for a more authentic experience. Ha Long is beautiful. Sinh Cafe and Happy Tours offer a lot of tours you can pick and choose from them, going to the Cu Chi tunnels is a must, the At Thu Wheels motorbike tour in Hue is great too. Have a great trip. Dave and Deb

Top Vietnam Destinations

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, DaNang and Hoi An are the most famous cities in Vietnam that grace every Vietnam traveler’s bucket list. These are four of the best cities in Vietnam to visit – and you. can click on any photo below to learn more about each place.

Interested in more unique places to visit in Vietnam? Keep scrolling to see XX of those.

HO CHI MINH

UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

Want to discover places in Vietnam that are less traveled and a bit off the beaten path?

There are so many places in Vietnam that you have probably never even heard of, but are so worth traveling to! Places like this often provide more authentic travel experiences, and will give you an opportunity to step out of the typical tourist trail and really experience Vietnam.

Below you will see XX of the most unique places to visit in Vietnam outside of the most popular cities.

WHALE ISLAND

Where is vietnam located.

Vietnam is located in South East Asia, on the Indochina Peninsula. It borders China in the north, Laos and Cambodia in the west, and the South China Sea to the east.

VIETNAM MAP

What continent is vietnam in.

Vietnam is a country on the continent of Asia.

IS IT VIETNAM OR VIET NAM?

Both are correct! If you want to follow the most common English usage – Vietnam .

If you want to be more correct in terms of Vietnamese – Viet Nam .

If you want to be really correct in terms of spelling and pronunciation – Việt Nam

AREA OF VIETNAM

A common mistake, many think that Vietnam is two separate countries – North and South Vietnam.

For many years (actually most of it’s history) Vietnam has been separated into two countries – North and South Vietnam. But since 1975, Vietnam has been unified under one country.

VIETNAM TRAVEL: KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Airport: Noi Bai International (HAN)

Timezone: Indochina Time (GMT +7)

Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Language: Vietnamese = official language; English, French, Chinese, Khmer and other highland languages are also spoken.

Vietnam Visa: The majority of travelers DO need a visa. The visa policy is constantly changing. Head here to find out the current Vietnam visa policy.

Electric Socket:  You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong flat pins), Type C (two-prong round pins), and Type F (cc). Some newer hotels will have a Type B (three-prong flat pins). Wherever you are coming from, you’ll need to bring a Universal Travel Adaptor.

Vietnam SIM Card: Do you need a SIM Card for Vietnam? The answer is most likely yes. Plans are cheap and definitely worth it, especially if you’re traveling on your own. Check out your options and all the reasons you will want one in this article all about the Best Vietnam SIM Cards.

Car Rentals : Car Rentals are not a thing for travelers in Vietnam. If you need a car, you will need to hire a driver. Check out this guide on Hiring a car and driver in Vietnam.

Motorbikes: The primary source of getting around Hanoi is via motorbike. If you are considering renting a motorbike for your Vietnam Vacation read this article on the Dos and Donts of Motorbike Driving in Vietnam.

IS VIETNAM SAFE FOR FEMALE TRAVELERS?

Is it safe to travel to Vietnam?  and  Is Vietnam safe?  are the two most asked questions in the Vietnam travel-sphere — which is great because it means people are keeping personal safety top of mind. If you’re always aware of yourself, your surroundings and your belongings, you’re likely going to be safe in Vietnam.

IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL VIETNAM SOLO? On a personal note, I traveled to the majority of cities in Vietnam by myself, and felt very safe. Now, this wasn’t magic; I made it a priority to stay safe by not walking home alone at night, never drinking too much, etc. Check out my Vietnam Solo Travel Guide for more info on Vietnam travel safety for solo female travelers. WHAT IS THE BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR VIETNAM? This is a question I get a lot as a Vietnam travel writer and Vietnam expat. To determine which Vietnam travel insurance is  best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc. 🏆  In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from: World Nomads   — For general travelers and adventure travelers. SafetyWing  — For general travelers and digital nomads in Vietnam. Travel Insurance Master  — Vietnam avel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies. 👉  Click on any of the links above to  get a FREE quote  on your policy!

VIETNAM BLOGS: LEARN MORE ABOUT TRAVELING VIETNAM

• The 15 Best Destinations In...

The Best Destinations in Vietnam

Vietnam might look small on the map, but this fascinating country has enough beauty to fill a continent. From jagged mountains in the north to tropical beaches in the south and the wealth of history and culture in between, these are the best destinations to visit in Vietnam .

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Fancy a trip to Vietnam to see the top destinations in real life? Join Culture Trip’s 12-day epic adventure around Vietnam for an unforgettable journey from Hanoi to Hue, Hoi An and more with the help of our Local Insider.

Hà Giang, for Spectacular Scenery

Natural Feature

Hà Giang is rugged, remote and spectacular. This area features some of the best views in the country, overlooking terraced rice paddies and deep valleys that have been carved into the limestone mountains for thousands of years. If you love motorbike rides, be sure to check out either the Quản Bạ Pass or the Mã Pí Lèng Pass for an exhilarating way to take in the area’s natural beauty.

Sa Pa, for a Relaxed Homestay

Natural Feature Sa Pa has grown substantially in the past few years. While some are put off by the tourism boom in this once-quiet mountain town, there are still many great reasons to visit. Seek out a homestay in one of the surrounding villages to keep your experience authentic, and if the weather permits and you’re looking for an adventure, climb Fansipan, the tallest mountain in all of Indochina.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter, for Culture and Food

Vietnam’s capital city is full of history and culture , especially in the Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake. This is the epicentre of tourism in the city, with market streets, a buzzing nightlife and some of the best Vietnamese food on the planet. There’s a lot to do here, but the most important thing is that you embrace the electric atmosphere of Hanoi’s beating heart. You can enjoy a guided walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter as part of Culture Trip’s exclusive 12-day Vietnam adventure, led by our Local Insider .

Hạ Long Bay, for Sheer Beauty

When it comes to Vietnamese tourism there’s no avoiding Hạ Long Bay. The rampant commercialisation of this natural wonder may have turned it into a bit of a cliche, but you can’t deny the sheer beauty of the Unesco World Heritage Site. Try to get on a reputable tour boat, or stay on Cát Bà island. For a similar experience with a little less hustle and bustle, try the nearby Bai Tu Long Bay.

Ninh Bình, for Adventurous Travellers

Of all the excellent day trip options from Hanoi , this is likely the most popular – and it’s no wonder why. The limestone karsts, serpentine rivers and lush scenery of Ninh Bình are loved by adventurous types and make for great holiday photos. Most trips to the area are combined with a visit to the Tràng An caves and grottoes, too.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, for the Largest Cave in the World

Unless you’re making your way through all of Vietnam, this national park is pretty far out of the way. But those who do make the effort to get here will be rewarded with some of the most unique experiences in all of Vietnam. This park is famous for its caves, and even boasts the largest cave in the world, Son Doong, which at its tallest reaches 198m (650ft).

Huế, for Imperial History

This city was once the capital of imperial Vietnam and much of its rich history still remains. The centrepiece is the Citadel and the enclosed Imperial City . Sadly, much of it was destroyed by American bombers during the war, but plenty remains to give you an idea of the city’s former splendour. Huế is also famous for its spicy cuisine, so be sure to check out some local versions of popular Vietnamese dishes . It also features on Culture Trip’s specially curated small-group Vietnam tour .

Hải Vân Pass, for Scenic Motorbike Rides

The mountains that run along the Laos border jut out into the sea between Huế and Đà Nẵng. Here, the road climbs up into the clouds, with twists and turns and views you’ll never forget. In a country known for its motorbike routes, the Hải Vân Pass is definitely the most famous and arguably the most scenic.

Hội An, for Tailor Opportunities

If you only have time to visit a few places in Vietnam, make Hội An one of them. Its Ancient Town is more captivating than the pictures suggest, and it gets even more beautiful at night when all the lanterns light up. The town’s past as a trading port on the silk route has also developed a rich history of tailoring, with hundreds of professional tailors still working today, so spend a couple of days here and have a nice dress or suit made just for you.

Nha Trang, for Adrenaline Junkies

Though Nha Trang is significantly busier than some of the other beach towns in the south, that also means there is so much more to do. The nightlife here is a lot of fun, and there are a whole host of extreme activities waiting for adrenaline junkies among – try jet skiing, surfing or even flyboarding, if you’re brave enough.

Đà Lạt, for a Cool Climate

If you’re looking to escape the heat then Đà Lạt is the destination for you. The city is built on a plateau 1,500m (4,921ft) above sea level and has a cool climate that’s hard to come by in Vietnam. The mountain town is a popular holiday destination for families and young couples from Ho Chi Minh City , which, along with its rich agricultural heritage, is why it’s known as the City of Love and Flowers.

Mũi Né, for Water Sports

Come to Mũi Né, in Southeast Vietnam, for the water sports; windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing are often on the agenda for travellers. And, even if you aren’t a morning person, it’s well worth getting up early to see the sunrise at the sand dunes in Mũi Né. This sleepy little town is a popular escape from the Vietnam’s big cities like Ho Chi Minh City some four hours away. If you’re wiped out after exploring half the country then Mũi Né might be the perfect place to end your trip.

Ho Chi Minh City, for Vibrant Nightlife

At the opposite end of the spectrum to Mũi Né is Vietnam’s biggest city Ho Chi Minh City, which is known for its chockablock traffic and noise pollution. Many are put off by the hectic pace of this city, formerly known as Saigon – but there is so much to love about this place. There are museums, world-class restaurants, rooftop bars, luxury hotels, street food stalls and as good a nightlife scene as you’ll find anywhere in the region.

Cần Thơ, for the Floating Market

Most people opt for hour-and-a-half-long day trip to Mỹ Tho from Ho Chi Minh City, but if you have the time, venture further into the Mekong Delta and Cần Thơ. At this riverside city you’ll discover Cái Răng , the largest floating market in Vietnam, which is much more impressive than the others in the region; shop for everything from clothing to exotic fruits.

Phú Quốc, for Idyllic White Sand Beaches

This island, just off the coast on the border with Cambodia, has been called a secret paradise island for its pristine beaches and beautiful natural landscapes. Think mountains and tropical jungles with exotic wildlife. There are parts of the island that cater to luxury with all-inclusive flashy resorts – but you can also do it on a budget and in seclusion, enjoying nothing but gentle waves and sound of your own voice.

Da Nang, for the Iconic Pink Cathedral

The buzzing coastal city of Da Nang, sandwiched between Bà Nà hills and the South China Sea, has one of Vietnam’s most stunning skylines. It’s a great base to explore nearby attractions including the Golden Bridge, My Khe Beach, Lang Co Beach, Hoi An and My Son. But don’t miss out on what the city itself has to offer: see its impressive pink cathedral, built in 1923, grab a bargain at the bustling Han Market, and, as night falls, visit Dragon Bridge, the longest bridge in Vietnam, which lights up the city with dragon breath lighting effects.

West Lake, for Relaxing Near Vietnam’s Oldest Temple

Lap up some calm in hectic Hanoi with a trip to West Lake, in the Tay Ho district. This is a beautiful spot to while away an afternoon by taking a stroll along the water, or renting a bike and cycling the 17km (11mi) loop around the lake. There are various points of interest alongside the footpath, including gardens, seafood restaurants, and Vietnam’s oldest temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, dating back to the sixth century. If you fancy seeing things from a different perspective, rent a swan pedalo;at night the twinkling lights on the water make for a beautiful photo opportunity.

Vũng Tàu, for the Best Surfing

Architectural Landmark, Natural Feature

This seaside resort is full of golden beaches and glistening blue waters, making it the perfect weekend getaway. It’s the closest beach destination to Ho Chi Minh City, with buses and ferries regularly running between the two cities. Hit Front Beach to watch the sunset or, if you’re looking for adventure, head to Back Beach, the best surf spot in Vietnam, where you can also try SUPing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. On land, there are lots of hiking opportunities along the coast, plus the city’s two mountains – Big Mountain and Small Mountain – serve up superb coastal views.

Phan Thiet, for Desert Landscapes

You might not associate Vietnam with deserts, but the southeast coastal city of Phan Thiet is home to Saharan-like red and white dunes. This is just one of the geological gems this area has to offer – the Fairy Stream (a dramatic landscape of reds, oranges, whites and pinks) is another must-see spot; take comfortable shoes and wade through clear waters from Ham Tien’s Dinh mountain.The white sand beaches in Phan Thiet are equally photogenic and, if you’re into kitesurfing, this is the place to be.

Haiphong, for French Colonial Architecture

Headto Haiphong in northeastern Vietnam to explore the French colonial architecture and nearby islets like Cat Ba and Halong Bay. It’s nicknamed the City of Flame Flowers, because most of the streets are lined with Royal Poinciana flame flower trees; visit between May and June to see the flowers in full bloom. The leafy boulevards have a real European feel; look out for the neoclassical Opera House and the elegant Queen of the Rosary Cathedral, dating to the 19th century. Meanwhile, the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival is a unique cultural attraction that draws huge crowds every year. Sadie Whitelocks contributed additional reporting to this article.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on April 19, 2024

Most travelers to Vietnam are attracted by the country’s wonderful natural beauty: From the green rice fields in the north to the fascinating bustle of the Mekong Delta in the south. Vietnam however is also a country with a long history and ancient traditions.

While its history is one of war, colonization and rebellion, the Vietnamese are very friendly and welcoming and are rightfully proud of their country. Aside from learning about the rich culture and cuisine in its cities, you can also visit remote hill tribes for a completely different experience.

The landscapes are just as varied as untouched mountain ranges and terraced rice fields give way to lovely islands, beaches and coastline. With Buddhist temples, serene hill towns and huge caves, this country offers visitors a wide range of things to do. For ideas on the best places to visit check out our list of the top tourist attractions in Vietnam.

25. Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue

Blending both Vietnamese and European design elements, the architecture of the Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue has been described as Buddhist as well as Roman Gothic. Constructed in the 1920s, the tomb was commissioned by the Emperor of Vietnam as his own future tomb.

The entrance of the complex leads to the Honour Courtyard, and then on to the main building called the Thien Dinh. Khai Dinh’s final resting spot is clearly marked by a bronze statue surrounded by beautiful murals.

24. Con Dao Islands

Under French rule, the Con Dao Islands were known as the Devil’s Island of Indochina, a place where thousands of prisoners of war were kept. Today, this group of 16 islands off the southern coast of Vietnam has a completely different purpose.

Visitors come for the beautiful beaches while scuba diving and snorkeling are also popular things to do. However, the history of Con Dao can still be explored at some of the prison buildings that still stand.

Aside from visiting the camps and seeing the notorious ‘tiger cages’, most come to lounge on soft sandy beaches or scuba dive and snorkel. From Con Son, its largest island, you can take unforgettable trips to see dugongs, dolphins and sea turtles.

23. Marble Mountains

South of Da Nang , are the Marble Mountains. These five peaks are named after the five elements of earth, water, wind, fire and wood. The mountains are picturesque on their own, but they are also home to countless caves, some of which house incredible Buddhist sanctuaries. Some caves contain Confucian or Buddhist shrines, and others were used as sanctuaries and hospitals during the Vietnam War.

After hiking up to Am Phu or Non Nuoc, there are plenty of expertly carved Buddhist statues and soaring pagodas to wander around. Very special and atmospheric, the Marble Mountains also offer some wonderful views over the surrounding area.

22. Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon

In Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, stands the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral. Built in the late 19th century, the cathedral is brick, neo-Romanesque and clearly influenced by European architecture of the same time period. In fact, many of the materials used in construction were imported directly from France.

While the exterior is impressive, the interior is also worth exploring. Look for the surviving stained glass panels as well as carved tiles and a statue of the Virgin Mary.

21. Tam Coc

In the Ninh Binh province of Northern Vietnam near is Tam Coc , which translates to English as three caves. The three caves are nestled in a scenic landscape of limestone cliffs and rice paddies, and the river winds through the region.

The caves are called Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba, and they serve as the area’s main attraction. Guided boat tours take you to the caves and along the Ngo Dong River, which is often dotted with floating vendors capitalizing on the tourist visiting on a day trip from Hanoi .

20. My Khe Beach

The most scenic spot in Da Nang is arguably My Khe Beach. Also known as China Beach, this was where US servicemen were helicoptered in for R&R during the Vietnam War. These days people come here however for tis pristine white sand, blue water and sunny skies.

Visitors can rent a lounge chair on the sand, relax in the shade under a thatched umbrella or rent a kayak from nearby vendors. Many hotels and cafes are within walking distance of My Khe Beach, making it a hub for visitors as well as locals in search of incredible views.

19. Hang Son Doong Cave

One of the largest caves in the world, and certainly the largest in Vietnam, is Hang Son Doong. Approximately three million years old, Hang Son Doong Cave is an incredible destination unlike anywhere else on the planet. The cave is enormous, and it is possible for dozens of people to camp within it at a time.

Bright blue water pools are located in the cave, and a river runs through it. Lush greenery lines the walls, thanks to erosion that lets in beams of sunlight. The cave is ethereal, and guided tours are available to best explore this amazing landmark.

18. Temple of Literature in Hanoi

The first university founded in the country, the magnificent Temple of Literature impressively dates back to 1070. Lying amidst gorgeous grounds and courtyards in the centre of Hanoi, it has numerous altars, shrines and an imposing entrance gate to admire.

Dedicated to Confucius, sages and scholars, its grand pavilions and gold-decked ceremonial halls all exhibit some fine traditional architecture. Most striking, however, are the hundred or so stone-carved turtles which honour all students to have passed the royal exam.

Dotted about the complex are tons of informative wall-hangings that explain more about its age-old history. During Tet – the Vietnamese New Year – countless calligraphists assemble outside the temple and write well wishes for people to take home with them.

17. Bac Ha Market

Once a week, the quiet town of Bac Ha becomes a hub of culture and trade in Northwest Vietnam. Residents from the surrounding villages and valleys flock to Bac Ha, and the roads are filled with buses packed with tourists.

Visiting on a Sunday means watching locals in their traditional ethnic dress, sipping the juice from fresh coconuts and browsing countless stalls. Shoppers can find everything for sale in Bac Ha, including water buffalo, delicious Hmong and Thay cuisine, brightly colored fabrics and fragrant spices.

16. Cham Islands

Several miles off the coast of Hoi An is a cluster of mountainous isles known as the Cham Islands . Primarily granite, these islands were once restricted but are now open to the public. The main island Hon Lao, the largest and the only one inhabited, is less than two hours’ away by speed boat.

Visitors can come for the day and go birdwatching, snorkel through the surrounding reefs or just enjoy the scenery of the beautiful beaches. Overnight stays are limited, but can be an incredible experience for the intrepid traveler.

15. Hang Nga’s Guesthouse in Da Lat

While it may be a bit unusual to include a guest house on a list of a country’s top attractions, Hang Nga’s ‘Crazy House’ in Da Lat definitely warrants its spot. A mix of Dali meets Disney, its extraordinary architecture and equally unique interior create some incredible photo ops.

Inspired by Catalonia’s Gaudi, the phenomenal five-story building was designed by Vietnamese architect Dang Viet Nga in 1990. Resembling a banyan tree, it is decorated with natural shapes that look like caves and mushrooms or tangled plants and spider webs.

Other than exploring its maze of small passageways and narrow staircases, you can actually stay in some of its fun-themed rooms. Fittingly described as a ‘fairytale house’, it really is a must-visit when in Da Lat.

14. Cao Dai Temple

One of the most sacred attractions in Vietnam is the Cao Dai Temple, which was constructed in the 1930s. Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion that is influenced by elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism and even Roman Catholicism.

In the main building of the Cao Dai Temple, there are four prayers conducted daily, and visitors can watch or even participate in the ceremonies. In addition to the temple, which boasts beautiful murals, the complex is home to many additional residences, administrative buildings and even a hospital.

13. Imperial Citadel in Hue

For nearly 150 years until World War II, the Imperial Citadel of Hue served as the capital of Vietnam’s Nguyen dynasty. In the very center of these secure walls was the Purple Forbidden City, an area reserved exclusively for the royal family.

The enormous Imperial Citadel was also a strategic hold during the Vietnam War, as it stands very close to the demilitarized zone that separated North and South Vietnam. This destination is significant for all those who are interested in the history of the nation.

Highlights include the majestic Meridian Gate and the colourful Mieu temple complex. As you stroll about its grounds, you’ll also find several interesting museums to stop at.

More than 1,600 years ago, the Chan people of Vietnam began construction on dozens of Hindu temples near the village of Duy Phú. Under the shadow of Cat’s Tooth Mountain, and surrounded by a green valley, several of these temples still stand.

Constructed between the 4th and 14th century, the humongous Hindu complex served as an important religious center and burial site for the Kings of Champa. At its zenith, there were over 70 temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu dotted about the valley.

Known collectively as My Son, most of the temples are now ruins. However, that only adds to the atmosphere. Visiting My Son is like stepping back in time, thanks in part to its secluded location and the lack of touristy infrastructure.

11. Phong Nha Caves

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park boasts many attractions, but none is so popular as its caves. The Phong Nha Caves are made up of hundreds of cave systems, many of which are large enough to hold entire city blocks.

Formed throughout millions of years, its endless mountains and forests contain over 300 caves and grottos. Some, such as Son Doong and Phong Nha, are among the largest in the world.

Entering their cavernous confines is unforgettable as spectacular stalactites and stalagmites are on show wherever you look. What’s more, there are even underground rivers, rainforests and beaches to see.

A gateway to the caves is Son Trach, a growing village that is home to several transport links throughout Vietnam, local restaurants and meeting points for guided tours to the caves.

10. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is Vietnam’s most popular seaside resort town located along the second most beautiful bay in the country. It features beautiful beaches with fine and clean sand and clear ocean water with mild temperatures.

The city has about 300,000 inhabitants and is more lively and urban in character than other beach destinations like Mui Ne and Phu Quoc. It’s also the scuba diving center of Vietnam.

Besides its wonderful beaches and water parks, there are a couple of museums and historic sights to see. The city is also renowned for its splendid seafood and vibrant nightlife scene.

9. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an immense network of connecting underground tunnels located about 40 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). The tunnels were used by Viet Cong guerrillas as hiding spots during the Vietnam War, and were the base of operations for the Tết Offensive in 1968

Stretching a staggering 250 kilometers in total, their oppressive tunnels and chambers were hollowed out by hand using only simple tools. Here, thousands of fighters lived in absolutely horrendous conditions alongside ants, snakes, scorpions and spiders.

The tunnels have become a popular tourist attraction, and visitors are invited to crawl around in the safer parts of the tunnel system.

8. Mekong Delta

Fittingly nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam’, the Mekong Delta’s many murky waterways cover a massive area immediately west of Ho Chi Minh City. Both fascinating and fun to boat about, the remote region is full of pretty paddy fields, mangroves and floating markets.

Since as early as the 4th century BC, the vast maze of rivers, swamps and islands has been an important source of agriculture and aquaculture. Impressively enough, it produces more rice than Japan and Korea combined.

As you paddle about in little wooden canoes, you’ll pass fruit orchards and cattle farms and learn about everyday life in the delta. There are also numerous nature reserves with floating markets like Phong Dien and Cai Rang always being popular stops.

7. Sand Dunes in Mui Ne

The formerly little-inhabited beach south of the fishing village of Mui Ne has seen some serious development in the last 20 years. Due to strong sea breezes it is a popular destination in Vietnam for kite- and windsurfing.

The town is still most known though for its sparkling dunes that wouldn’t look out of place in the Sahara. Towering over 10 metres in height, they make for a phenomenal sight with lots of people either sledding or quad biking about them.

While the red sand dunes lie quite close to town overlooking the sea, the white ones are a bit further away. Both look particularly epic at sunrise and sunset with some even taking hot air balloon rides above them.

6. Terraced Rice Fields In Sapa

Some of Vietnam’s most famous and photogenic landscapes, however, have to be the scenic Terraced Rice Fields around Sapa. Nestled away right in the northwest of the country, their sweeping valleys and vivid green hues make for unbelievable views.

Located not far from the Chinese border, the popular and picturesque town lies right by the 3,143 metre-high Fansipan; the tallest peak in Southeast Asia. In between them are all the romantic terraced rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley.

For many centuries now, local hill tribes have constructed and maintained these engineering marvels, cultivating rice amidst the region’s harsh mountain climes. Other than enjoying its arresting views, you can also trek about the verdant fields and visit all the small villages.

5. Phu Quoc

Although it is the largest island in Vietnam, the gorgeous Phu Quoc lies just off the coast of Cambodia, surrounded by the glinting Gulf of Thailand. A tropical paradise, it is famed for its wonderful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Coated in dense rainforest with mountain ridges also running through it, the idyllic isle was quite undeveloped until relatively recently. While most of it is still pristine, new restaurants and resorts are popping up all the time.

As well as sunbathing and swimming, you can always scooter around nearby fishing villages or tour pearl and pepper farms. With delicious seafood dishes to try and twinkling waterfalls to hike to, Phu Quoc really does make for a great island getaway.

4. Hoi An Ancient Town

This fishing-village-turned-tourist-attraction is situated on the coast of the South China Sea. Hoi An has been an international port from the 16th century although the serious shipping business has long since moved to the city of Da Nang.

The heart of the city is still the Old Town, full of winding lanes and Chinese-styled shops. It is sometimes called the “Venice of Vietnam” because of the narrow canals that cut through part of the town.

Due to its strategic setting along the country’s central coastline, Hoi An thrived for centuries as an important trading port. Its many merchants built not just Chinese-style temples and shophouses but Vietnamese tube houses too. Later on, the French also added colonial villas.

What makes its Ancient Town even more enchanting are all the colourful lanterns strung up along its streets and riverside. In addition to taking photos of its quaint Japanese-covered bridge, you can stop for a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs at its vibrant central market.

3. Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi

Located in the historical center of Hanoi , Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the major scenic spots in the city and serves as the locals’ favorite leisure spot. Hoan Kiem means “returned sword”, and the name comes from a legend in which King Le Loi was given a magical sword by the gods, which he used to drive out the invading Chinese. Later he returned the sword to the Golden Turtle God in the lake.

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

Aside from strolling along its shores taking in the scenery and views, you can also cross the bright red The Huc Bridge to the historic Ngoc Son Temple. Another of the lake’s landmarks is the iconic Turtle Tower which is set on a tiny island far offshore.

2. Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue

Along with the Imperial Citadel, the marvellous Thien Mu Pagoda is undoubtedly Hue’s main symbol and sight. Perched upon a hill overlooking the Perfume River, it makes for some fine photos with the lush landscaped grounds at its foot being very peaceful to wander around.

Originally erected in 1601, the pagoda was built by the first of the Nguyen lords to pray for the country’s prosperity. Now towering seven storeys in total, it houses some exquisite gold and silver images of the Buddha.

After snapping some pics of the 21-metre-high tower, make sure to explore all its gorgeous gardens along the river.

1. Ha Long Bay

Renowned around the world for its incredible karst landscapes and emerald waters, Halong Bay is by far the most popular tourist attraction in Vietnam. Featured on the front of countless travel catalogues, it can be reached in roughly 2.5 hours from Hanoi.

Home to almost 2,000 craggy isles and looming limestone outcrops, its name means ‘Bay of Descending Dragons’ in Vietnamese. Rising dramatically above the waters around them, their rugged rocks are topped by thick jungle vegetation with sandy beaches and cool caves found at their feet.

Many people also take sightseeing cruises about the bay, stopping off at floating villages and grottoes along the way. You can also always swim and kayak or enjoy relaxing Tai Chi, yoga and cooking classes aboard the junk boats .

Map of Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

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Reader interactions.

November 8, 2017 at 6:22 pm

I spent two weeks in Vietnam Dec 2016, Cam Ranh, Nha-Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels, Tay Ninh, The Mekong Delta, I have never had such a great trip in my life. I am already planning my next trip. I can’t wait to go back. The in country flights are fantastic, the people are awesome and for those who complain about the traffic, hey it is their way of life, they don’t need to change because are coming to visit. Go there and enjoy yourself.

June 10, 2017 at 3:02 am

I am planning a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia for Feb 2018 and this site has been of great help. so many positive comments and a few scarey ones…I will continue doing my home work and am hoping that 10 to 14 days will suffice for the trip from north to south and Con Dao.

May 21, 2017 at 11:54 pm

I think Ha Giang, Ba Be lake, Ban Gioc waterfall, Trang An are beautifull too.

May 10, 2017 at 1:25 am

i am planning to visit this country by next year , this blog is very helpful . amazing place! see you sonnest!

April 17, 2017 at 3:09 am

we are planning to visit Vietnam shortly .,good to learn reviews as posted by all of you. We are excited to explore.

March 28, 2017 at 7:47 am

i really like Việt Nam. In my opinion, i think you should visit Phú Quốc. What a beautiful island! I’m Vietnamese. Thanks you so much 🙂

January 17, 2017 at 7:16 am

great information, thanks!

November 25, 2015 at 1:04 am

love Vietnam so much. People are very friendly. I have just had an interesting holiday with my family in summer. Nha Trang beach is the most beautiful beach i have ever seen. The food is very special that no country has. I will come back to Vietnam soon.

June 11, 2015 at 10:43 pm

If you go to Vietnam, it is best to travel on your own. Stay away from the tourist traps because as a tourist, you will be expected to pay high rates. Better to rent a motorbike and just go. I have been to Phu Quoc island and it is not clean. The Vietnamese are the worst next to India about throwing garbage everywhere. We went to star beach in the very south of the island. It’s difficult to get there, not many speak English, and it’s very expensive. There was polluted water running off into the sea. The beach water was yellow at the shoreline. There was garbage dumped everywhere. Your cheap rooms at an overnight house should cost around $8 per night in the off season. At a higher end place it will be about $50 / night. In the high season it will be much more.

April 12, 2015 at 9:20 am

Beautiful country to visit. Viet Nam has improved a lot after a long war. Thanks for the information.

February 3, 2015 at 7:25 pm

Love Vietnam! Yes, you can be ripped off and charged more if you act like an ethnocentric tourist… bargain for things like the locals do, be smart by learning atleast a little of the language, get a guide if you need one. Don’t renounce the place because YOU can’t fit in and atleast try to have cultural etiquette! Of if the best trips of my life! Truly awesome! I will be back!!

December 26, 2014 at 4:39 am

I’ve lived in Vietnam for over 11 years. I’ve found many places to visit during my ventures through Vietnam. I am surprised that the the Ke Bang National Park is not on this list of places to go. I would think the caverns and small boat rides would be a very interesting trip to the North central part of Vietnam. The only place I have not been is Sa Pa and island of Phu Quoc… I’ve traveled several times by motorbike covering between 1700 and 2100 km throughout Vietnam. Now living in DaNang. The beaches here are fantastic, lodging is of your choice and many say the food great.

November 6, 2014 at 12:40 pm

Spent 3 weeks in Vietnam & loved every minute of it. I may have got ripped off a dollar or two here & there but its so cheap it didn’t worry me. The food is great, the people are great. Hoi An is a delight. I always travel to Thailand but it was a great break away from Thailand and will be heading back to Vietnam 2015 for more exciting travel. PS; Marisa, I’m going to learn basic Vietnamese to get me by. No ranting from me.

October 24, 2014 at 11:23 pm

I am soooooo happy i found this website cos needed a good one for a school project:) 🙂 :{ also I am going to Vietnam soon so I am glad to know some of what I am gonna see thx whoever made this website

October 24, 2014 at 6:34 pm

Help! Need to take vacay soon! Cant decide bw vietnam and thailand. Want something different as far as culture (i’m from usa). Love beaches, touristy stuff and immersing myself with the locals. Drawn to vietnam for the history and because my dad fought in the war. Drawn to thailand for the beaches. Plan on two weeks at either country. Cost is a factor. Would also like to do a side trip to angor wat since i’ll be so close. Input/suggestions would be appreciated!

October 22, 2014 at 8:19 am

Literally just returned (yesterday) from an awesome trip to Vietnam. Loved it there and the food and people were awesome. Very respectful, friendly and helpful. Our guide was phenomenal.

June 23, 2014 at 6:47 pm

To those who say you got ripped off while traveling in Vietnam, as being a Vietnamese, I very apologize for this unfriendly manner. I understand this and this could even happen to Vietnamese tourists. As my own experience, places that you could be ripped off the most are street-food places. If you don’t understand the culture there, please find a local, they will help you get around. We are very friendly and we would love to learn English from travelers. I understand why those people rip foreigners off. It is because of poverty and lack of education. I believe when a new government ruling our country and kick the communists out of our land, things will change. Vietnam is so beautiful. I would love to go back there and travel to every corner of the country. Before I start traveling the world, I have to explore my own mother land.

June 10, 2014 at 6:12 am

Hello, Just back from a great trip to Vietnam, amazing place, clean, green, never felt intimidated once in our 11 days trip to this Gods country, with such a rich history, diversity, culture food etc….we were a group of 17 from India. Being from India we did not find traffic as chaotic of how it is written about. We thoroughly enjoyed the food from pork, sea food, and even tried crickets!!! We enjoyed every city, special was Hoi An could have stayed longer there!!! Amazing pagodas and temples, awesome Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The Cu Chi tunnels give you a real experience of the ingenuity of the Viet Cong (VC). This country has to be in the list of MUST visit before you die.

May 8, 2014 at 8:47 am

You have got to love Marisa’ post with quotes like “none of the vendors speak English or have English menus”! Vietnam is amazing!

April 23, 2014 at 1:38 am

I am in Vietnam right now, and I have to say it’s a completely positive surprise. We have heard from a lot of people that vietnamese are unfriendly, stories of ripping off the tourists, etc… Well, I have seen a bunch of foreign tourist here bargaining for every penny, and complaining about everything. Hanoi as an amazing place and Halong Bay is unbelievable, and local people are generally very friendly and quite natural. And even if we (the foreigners) pay more than the locals, it is still a very cheap country. Besides, if we are honest to ourselves, we should be more than happy how they treat us after all the misery the west has brought to them in the past. Next week heading off south, can’t wait to see other fascinating places in this beautiful country.

March 9, 2014 at 3:22 am

Vietnam is one of the most diverse and beautiful countries i have been to, to those that say it is a rip off is completely wrong, you pay a single dollar for some of the best street food in the world. Tourists pay more than locals because nearly every local i met had never left their town or major city because they earn basically nothing compared to western travellers.I would highly suggest spending 1 to 2 months in this amazing country. So much love for Vietnam.

February 6, 2014 at 2:12 am

A good selection of places to go. I missed some of them, but you can’t go everywhere. 🙂 I’d like to recommend a tour with the Easy Riders from Dalat. It was a nice experience. Anyone, who wants to know more, can check it out on my blog. Plus, Dalat itself, is a nice place to hang out.

January 27, 2014 at 7:15 am

I am currently in Vietnam and so far this place has been a complete tourist-unfriendly rip off. Yes Halong Bay is nice, yes the sights such as Ho Chi Minh’s Museum and Mausoleum and the Vietnam War museum and Hanoi Hilton prison in Hanoi are worth seeing but to get to these places you have to put your life on the line just to walk along a road. Never have I met such insincere people in my life and I have travelled all over the world including backpacking in Thailand, Chile, Venezuela, Sri Lanka, South Africa etc. Tourists pay far more than locals for train tickets, bus tickets,food. The food is bland and unappetizing compared with Thailand in restaurants and its ten times more difficult to use street vendors as nobody speaks english or has english menus. Only 5% of visitors return to Vietnam compared with 50% who return to Thailand, and you have to pay a very high cost for a visa to get here as well. My advice for Vietnam would be if you have to visit, go with a tour company having paid for everything in advance. Sorry we wont be returning. Ever.

January 20, 2014 at 9:08 am

Vietnam is a great travel destination. I spent a month in south VN in 2008, and hope to visit the north (Ha Giang, Lang Son) later this year.

November 25, 2013 at 1:53 am

Son Doong cave is also Amazing!! I’ve been in Hanoi and walked around Hoan Kiem lake and Halong bay. Very nice!

November 10, 2013 at 10:51 pm

i loved it in Vietnam, especially in the Chu Chi Tunnels it was an amazing experience. my wife and i even saw bats, i would defiantly recommend going to Vietnam

November 5, 2013 at 6:36 am

Just left Vietnam having spent 3 weeks there, what a nightmare. Been on the road for 4.5 months now, overland from Europe, as part of a 7 month trip. I’ve visited nearly 50 countries in my lifetime, Vietnam is just the worst. As a tourist you are constantly lied to, cheated and overcharged (by 5, 10, 20 times the fair price) not by a small minority, but by the vast majority of the people you interact with – if you let them. If you choose to visit Vietnam for its mediocre sights, take GPS enabled maps, a stack of local information / guidebooks and make absolutely sure you believe and trust no one you speak to while there.

November 3, 2013 at 7:24 pm

If you have time, Just visit Da Nang City, Viet Nam. Da Nang is very nice and full of hidden thing waiting for your Exploration.

July 7, 2013 at 4:07 am

As a solo-backpacker will be touring Vietnam and Cambodia in November 2013. thanks for youir excellent information on Vietnam places of Interest.

May 6, 2013 at 3:10 pm

I love to see my country again and i am doing my project about my country. I luckily see this site and have enough info here. Thank you very much .

October 16, 2012 at 1:42 am

vietnam is very beautiful as i m newly married i want to come here for honeymoon

September 12, 2012 at 4:38 pm

I want to go here so bad! It looks so beautiful! Thank you so much for this information because I’m doing a project for school and it needed to include attractions… luckly your site was the best one I could find! Oh and don’t worry I gave you credit for the info! 🙂

July 14, 2012 at 1:20 pm

Vietnam seem to be a very beautiful country that I would like to visit soon.

January 13, 2011 at 4:22 pm

Great post and useful information! Thanks!

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13 Must Visit Vietnam Destinations

By: Author Hannah

Posted on Last updated: 31 October, 2023

Traveling to Vietnam and looking for the best Vietnam destinations? What most people don’t realize is how big Vietnam is, it’s actually over 1,000 miles long.

When planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering where to go in Vietnam you’ll want to narrow it down to the best places to visit in Vietnam. We spent over a month traveling in Vietnam and here are our 13 top Vietnam destinations.

*When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Vietnam check prices on Booking.com , we’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.*

13 Vietnam Destinations Not To Miss

We have put the list in order to visit if you were traveling Vietnam by bus or overland. Vietnam flights are really affordable. We choose to fly within Vietnam as several of the Vietnam bus routes were overnight buses.

It would take almost a whole day to get from one Vietnam destination to the next. For example, if you were to go to all the below places in Vietnam it would be 2,590 km. We purchased three one-way flights with luggage on Jetstar for under $100 per person.

Ho Chi Minh City

A Vietnam trip should start (or end) in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s the perfect place to kick off a Vietnam vacation. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is formerly named and still often referred to as Saigon.

Three days in Ho Chi Minh City would give you just the right amount of time to see most of the tourist attractions nearby. Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam with a population of 10 million people and a staggering 4 million motorbikes. If you have ever played the video game Frogger it will come to life when trying to cross the street in Ho Chi Minh.

Related Post: 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Vietnam

There are tons of things to do in Ho Chi Minh city but the following tourist attractions are a must: Vietnam, Ben Thanh market, War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office, and eat lots and lots of Pho.

The best Vietnamese Pho we had was in Ho Chi Minh City, our hotel offered it every day at breakfast. You will likely begin to realize your love for Vietnamese food in Saigon, we now find ourselves craving Pho.

There are several daily direct flights to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). Average 2017 flight prices for a one-way ticket from the following Vietnam destinations:

• Da Nang $20
• Nha Trang $15
• Phu Quoc $40

Sapa Vietnam is like no other city in Vietnam. Gorgeous green ride paddies in the Vietnamese mountain town are the highlight of Sapa. Take a tour through the rice paddies and visit the local Hmong & Dao villages.

One of the most unique tours in Sapa actually spends the night in the village. Sapa homestay tours will give you a real look at life in Sapa. There are several options from one night to multiple nights Sapa homestays and even tours from Hanoi to Sapa for only $100 .

A trip to Sapa is a trip in itself. Most tourists in Vietnam travel to Sapa by train, there is a daily overnight train from Hanoi to Sapa that takes about 8 hours.

TIP: Don’t take the cheapest train, pay the few extra dollars for the more expensive tourist class sleeper. Let’s just say we saw a rat on our train when we took the wrong one. Another way to get to Saps is by shuttle bus, we would not recommend this as the roads are very windy and can be dangerous.

Related Article: Sapa Vietnam Travel Guide

Closest airport to Sapa is Hanoi. 

Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an easy Vietnam day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. There are tons of Vietnam tour companies selling half-day and full-day trips to the Ci Chi Tunnels.

The tunnels were used during the Vietnam War by the Viet Cong soldiers. These underground tunnels are an extensive network of connecting tunnels where the soldiers lived, used as a supply route, etc.

Hannah barely fit in the Cu Chi tunnels, and there was no way Adam was going to fit!

You can literally crawl through the tunnels and try and imagine what life would have been like living in the tunnels during the war.  We suggest the half-day trip which can be booked online here with Viator in advance for only $18.

The closest airport to Mui Ne is Ho Chi Minh City.

Mekong Delta

Take a river cruise down the Mekong Delta. The Mekong Delta lies just outside of Ho Chi Minh city. Overnight Mekong Delta tours can be booked online for as low as $65, there are several one-night trips and even longer ones.

Da Lat is a gorgeous little mountainous town known as “The City of Eternal Spring” with year-round cooler temperatures. It’s the perfect place to relax for a few days while visiting Vietnam.

Da Lat has amazing lakes and waterfalls that are easily explored by motorbike. If you are looking to visit the “real” Vietnam head to the nearby minority villages just outside of Da Lat.

There are several daily direct flights to Da Lat (DLI). Average 2017 flight prices for a one-way ticket from the following Vietnam destinations:

• Ho Chi Minh City $20
• Phu Quoc $50

Nha Trang is Vietnam’s most famous beachside destination. Many tourists travel to Vietnam just to go diving in Nha Trang. It’s much busier and has an urban feel, so if you are looking for a relaxing Vietnam beach vacation head to Mui Ne or Phu Quoc instead. Besides the gorgeous beaches, there are several waterfalls near Nha Trang.

Don’t miss the famous Thap Ba Hot Springs and Mud baths are only 2 miles from the city center. Nha Trang is very popular with Russian tourist and many of the hotels have Russian speaking staff and Russian menus. It may be difficult to find English speaking staff in Nha Trang.

There are several daily direct flights to Nha Trang (CXR). Average 2017 flight prices for a one-way ticket from the following Vietnam destinations:

• Da Nang $40
• Ho Chin Minh City $15

Hoi An Vietnam is our favorite Vietnam destination and a place we could easily spend a week if not a whole month. Hoi An is a gorgeous coastal known that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some of the best Vietnamese food can be found in Hoi An, along with ten cent draft beers.

Our money has never gone further than in Hoi An, there are 4-star hotels for $20 a night in Hoi An. We stayed in an Airbnb apartment so that we had more space since we spent a week. If you are spending a week in any of these Vietnam destinations see what is available on Airbnb.

Related Article: Things To Do In Hoi An

If you were overwhelmed by all the motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh city then Hoi An will be a good alternative. The pace of life is so much slower in Hoi An. You can rent a motorbike and get lost in the nearby rice paddies or head to the beaches in Hoi An. Hoi An really is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

The closest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang. 

Da Nang is the gateway to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and cities like Hue and Hoi An which are nearby. Da Nang’s biggest attraction is Mỹ Sơn archaeological site dating back thousands of years ago, it’s 70km west of the city. Da Nang is a coastal Vietnam town very popular with ex-pats.

There are several daily direct flights to Da Nang (DAD). Average 2017 flight prices for a one-way ticket from the following Vietnam destinations:

• Nha Trang $45
• Phu Quoc $45

Hue is known as “Vietnam’s Imperial City” and was the national capital from 1802-1945. There are several things to do in Hue but the biggest attraction in Hue is the Citadel. The citadel is surrounded by a moat and thick stone walls. Other Hue sights to see Forbidden Purple City, Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue Market, and imperial tombs.

Related Article: Hue Vietnam Guide

There are several daily direct flights to Hue (HUI). Average 2017 flight prices for a one-way ticket from the following Vietnam destinations. Click here for our guide on how to get from Da Nang airport to Hue .

• Ho Chi Minh City $25

Hanoi is Vietnam’s second-largest cities and the motorbike traffic is similar to that in Ho Chi Minh City. But honestly, motorbikes and Vietnam go hand and hand. There are tons of things to do in Hanoi that you could spend a week in Hanoi.

Some of Hanoi attractions are: Hỏa Lò Prison also known as Hanoi Hilton where John McCain was a prisoner of war, Ho Chi Minh museum was one of the weirdest museums in the world but worth the visit, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, and the favorite thing we did was go on a Hanoi street food tour. Street food tours are a great way to learn

Street food tours are a great way to learn your way around Hanoi, try local food you would have never tried before, learn about the Vietnamese dishes, get Hanoi tips from your guide, and the best part was it was only $18.

You can book online here in advance. After the tour, we had new friends and continued our time in Hanoi by enjoying ten cent draft beers on the streets of Hanoi.

There are several daily direct flights to Hanoi (HAN). Check out our guide on how to get to the HAN airport from Hanoi . Average 2017 flight prices for a one-way ticket from the following Vietnam destinations:

• Ho Chi Minh City $30
• Nha Trang $30

Halong Bay is a highlight on all Vietnam Holidays and a must on any trip to Vietnam. Halong Bay literally translates to “descending dragon bay” and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Halong Bay has more than 1,600 limestone islands.

Most of the islands are inhabitable, and therefore most tours to Halong Bay are boat cruises. There is a variety of classes of Halong Bay cruises and duration, we suggest at least a 3-day trip to truly take in the beauty. Click here to compare Halong Bay tours. One of the best views of Halong Bay would be from a seaplane, which can be booked on Viator for only $99 .

The closest airport to Halong Bay is in Hanoi. 

Phú Quốc

Well technically you would not travel to Phú Quốc from Halong Bay, we just didn’t know where to put Phú Quốc on our list. Phú Quốc is the largest Vietnamese island and is located in the Gulf of Thailand. It is a tropical paradise with turquoise waters and sandy beaches.

Phú Quốc tourism has just begun as it was a relatively unknown destination in Vietnam for many years. Tourism has been increasing over the years with the new international airport. Phú Quốc lies just south of the Cambodian coast and the nearest coastal town of Ha Tien is 40km away. A bonus is that Phú Quốc visa-free for a period of up to 30 days! 

There are several daily flights to Phú Quốc (PQC). Average 2017 flight prices for a one-way ticket from the following Vietnam destinations:

• Ho Chi Minh City $25
• Da Nang $55
• Nha Trang $55

We hope we have convinced you to make Vietnam your next destination! There are so many amazing Vietnam cities and attractions to pick from, you could easily spend two months traveling in Vietnam. If you have any Vietnam questions feel free to leave a comment below or send us an email. Did we happen to forget a Vietnam destination on our list? Let us know below, we’ll gladly include it.

Drumles Den Haag

Saturday 3rd of March 2018

O gosh how I miss Vietnam. I absolutely loved the area of Halong Bay ad Ha Giang. The people are so lovely and friendly. The food is super. I want to go back!!

Saturday 15th of April 2017

Great! When will you come back? Oxalis is the sole tour operator to the cave and only a few spots left to Son Doong this year. Do not miss it.

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Monday 17th of April 2017

OMG so we have to book well in advance then. We hope to get back to Vietnam this year. We have talked about getting an apartment in Hoi An or HCMC and exploring Vietnam for several months. So we know we'll be back.

I would add Hang Son Doong in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park into the list. Not only the largest cave in the world, Son Doong cave is also known for its limited quantity of visitors each year.

Thanks for the additions. Hang Son Doong is at the top of our Vietnam bucket list. We hope to get there in 2017, Vietnam is calling us back!

Wednesday 15th of February 2017

Glad to have found your site as we are headed to Vietnam in a few months!

Saturday 18th of February 2017

Safe travels to Vietnam, we can't wait to go back!

Saturday 10th of December 2016

Uber is the way to go in Hanoi if you don't speak Vietnamese. Just make sure to get a local SIM card because Vietnam is not on T-Mobile's free data list. I really don't remember any ride around town over $1-$2. I wish I'd Ubered from the airport, but I was a newbie to Vietnam getting in late and pre-paid for a car transfer.

Thanks for the tip. Uber is great everywhere in the world, not only does it save you money but when language is an issue explaining where you are going its a miracle. Thanks for the tips.

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The 15 Best Vietnam Tourist Places You Should Visit

Vietnam, a Southeast Asian country, is well-known for many reasons, among which, sadly, some people remember Vietnam for war. However, there are so many things to see in Vietnam, the country offers a variety of culture with 54 ethnic peoples having different customs and dress, the richness of natural beauty: from limestone mountains, rice terraces to the plains to the delta of rivers, from mysterious caves to beautiful beaches on the sea coast, from tropical forests to sand dunes,... With a length of 1750 km, Vietnam is generally divided into three regions: North from Ha Giang to Ninh Binh, Central from Thanh Hoa to Binh Thuan and South from Binh Phuoc to Ca Mau and each region has a different way of life. Therefore, if you are looking for a destination with many experiences, Vietnam is a good choice. In this article, we present the most beautiful Vietnam tourist places to visit so that you will have an idea to choose the experiences that suit your taste.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Northern vietnam tourist places, 2. ninh binh, 3. mai chau, 4. mu cang chai, 5. sapa - bac ha, 6. ha giang, 7. cao bang - bac kan, 8. gulf of tonkin, central vietnam tourist places, 9. quang binh, 11. da nang, 13. west central highland (tay nguyen), southern vietnam tourist places, 14. ho chi minh city, 15. mekong river delta.

Being the capital of the country, Hanoi is an important economic and cultural centre of the country. By 2019, Hanoi has received 6 titles recognized by UNESCO: Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Doctoral Stelae at the Temple of Literature, Ca Tru, Giong Festival, the typical game “Tug of war”.

Why Hanoi? There are so many reasons why Hanoi is one of the best tourist places in Vietnam .

• The richness of history: Hanoi is one of the oldest cities in the world. Over the centuries, this place has been influenced by European and Asian cultures. But you don't feel too much opposition between them but a nice cultural mix.
• The particular architecture: the houses and buildings have a mixed architecture between Western and Indochina.
• The Culinary Quintessence: For a long time, Hanoi has been known for its very rich cuisine. Visitors can find street restaurants, stalls with good food, and colourful tropical fruits in small markets.
• Unique charm in each month: Each month in Hanoi we has typical kind of flower and you can see the change of weather through the street vendors' bicycles full of flowers along the streets: Peach blossom in January, white lily in April, lotus in June, chamomiles in November,.... With 4 distinct seasons, Hanoi has so many colours to discover.

When to go? You can go to Hanoi at any time of the year.

Where to go?

• The Temple of Literature
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Museums: Hoa Lo Prison, Ethnographic Museum,...
• Pagoda: Tran Quoc, Quan Su
• Temples: Bach Ma, Quan Thanh, Ngoc Son
• Old Quarter and French Quarter

With the length of history as a political centre of Vietnam, there are so many things to see in Hanoi. Click here to know more about the best attractions if you come to the capital of Vietnam. 

>> See more:  Four Michelin Star Restaurants in Vietnam 2023

Why Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is a place that nature favours so much with everything: a national park, mountains and limestone rocks, the system of rivers among the rocks and endless rice fields,... Ninh Bình is also known as the capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, for those who love history, Hoa Lu is a must-see place if you want to know more about the patriotic tradition of Vietnamese.

When to go?

You can visit Ninh Binh almost all year round. However, in April and May, the rice fields in Ninh Binh are all yellow and you can acquire a magnificent view.

• Rural villages
• Bich Dong Pagoda
• Bai Dinh Pagoda

>> See more:   What to see in Ninh Binh? Top unmissable places in Ninh Binh

Mai Chau is a village in the north-western area located at a distance of 140 km from Hanoi.

Why Mai Chau?

• Charm of tranquillity: In Mai Chau, you will find a vast valley extending to the foot of the mountain, completely different from the hustle and bustle life of the city.
• Culture and typical life of the Thai ethnic group: Mai Chau is the home of 6 ethnic groups, among which white Thai occupies more than 65% of the population.
• Ethnic Thai cuisine: You have to taste the dishes of freshwater fish, roasted chicken with Thai spices, bamboo shoots, sticky rice cooked in bamboo. The Thais have a special wine that they drink together in a jar with straws. It was so delicious!

When to go? Autumn (August to October) is the most beautiful time to travel to Mai Chau with golden autumn sunshine and green rice fields gradually turning golden. In higher areas such as Hang Kia, Pa Co, there is a cloud chasing season from November to April.

Where to go? The great ethnic villages to visit are Lac village, Pom Coong village, Van village, Nhot village. You can also visit Cha Long and Tong Dau villages.

Mu Cang Chai is a district in Yen Bai province in northwestern Vietnam at a distance of 315 km from Hanoi.

Why Mu Cang Chai? The charming rice terraces: The beautiful terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai are meticulously "carved" by the skilled hands of ethnic people. The colourful culture of ethnic Hmong people: The ethnic people living in Mu Cang Chai are mainly the Hmong.

When to go? In summer, people sow rice and then all the hills are covered with the lush green colour. In early autumn, the rice plants will turn a beautiful golden colour to prepare for harvest. The ripe rice season is considered the most beautiful season in Mu Cang Chai, everywhere there is bright and fresh yellow colour to adorn the peaceful beauty of the mountainous region.

Where to go? The famous terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai that you can add to your plan are Che Cu Nha, La Pan Tan, De Xu Phinh, Tu Le,…

Located at an altitude of over 1600m and covered by forest, beautiful natural sceneries, cool climate and many delicious dishes are the reasons why Sapa tourism becomes attractive for both domestic and foreign tourists.

Why Sapa and Bac Ha?

• The temperate climate: Sapa has not too cold springs, cool summers, cold autumns and freezing winters. In the summer, it is an ideal destination to escape from the sultry heat with a temperature of only 25oC.
• Ethnic cultural diversity: In Sapa, there are many ethnic minorities: Hmong, Red Dzao, Giay, Kinh, Xa Pho… so visitors can come here to discover different cultural customs.
• Fansipan Peak: The main reason for many people to travel to Sapa is to conquer Fansipan peak. In some years, you may encounter difficulty when conquering the "roof of Indochina''.
• Multi-ethnic markets in Bac Ha: the markets are fascinating for all travellers who seek to experience a local life.

When to go? April and May are the time when the locals start sowing and planting rice so if you come to Sapa during this time, you will see the water flowing through the rice terraces. The period from June to September is the ideal time for those who want to escape the scorching and sultry heat of the city, looking for a cooler and more pleasant place. From June to July, Sapa is filled with greenery, fresh green forest and growing rice terraces while from August to September, Sapa is surrounded by the picturesque yellow terraces. October to November is the water season in Sapa so it is time to visit waterfalls.

• The ethnic villages: Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, Giang Ta Chai, Ban Khoang, Ta Giang Phinh
• The waterfalls: Love waterfall, Silver waterfall, Fairy waterfall
• Ethnic markets in Bac Ha: Bac Ha market (on Sunday morning), Can Cau market (on Saturday morning), Coc Ly market (on Tuesday morning), Xin Cheng market (on Wednesday morning) are the most famous in Bac Ha. Xin Cheng market is the smallest and most authentic.

>> See more:  Exploring Sapa Rice Field | When and Where to See ?

Ha Giang has a diverse landscape of rivers and mountains. If you want to see the flowers, admire the rice fields, chase the clouds, conquer the past and explore the culture,… you will find all of them with a Ha Giang trip.

Why Ha Giang?

• The fabulous scenery: Ha Giang has many different and beautiful attractions that you can experience, from the majestic roads, canyons, karst plateaus,...
• Distinctive architecture: In Ha Giang, we can see mixed architecture of the Chinese, ethnic Vietnamese and French.

When to go? In spring, Ha Giang is brilliant with not too cold weather and flowers blooming everywhere. In summer, the sun was a bit harsher, but that's okay, Ha Giang charms travellers in a different way. If you have the opportunity, don't miss the opportunity to visit Ha Giang in autumn. Diving along the zigzagging roads, sometimes you will be overwhelmed by the bright yellow colour of the terraced fields in the season of ripe rice. Then, Ha Giang in winter is poetic even if it's a bit cold.

• Ma Pi Leng Pass
• The Tu San canyon and Nho Que river
• Hoang Su Phi
• Lung Cu - The northernmost point of Vietnam
• The palace of Hmong King Vuong Chi Sinh
• Dong Van Old Quarter
• The hills of Quan Ba

Why Cao Bang and Bac Kan?

• Breathtaking wild landscapes: If Ha Giang is the dream destination of nature-oriented travellers with its majestic beauty as bold as sculpture, Cao Bang and Bac Kan bring a very different feeling of mountain villages. They are poetic and gentle but the mountains and rivers are so irresistibly majestic.
• Interact with friendly ethnic people: In Cao Bang there are 28 ethnic minorities living together while Bac Kan is the home to 35 ethnic groups. In both provinces, the Tay minority occupies the majority with as much as 50% of the total population.
• Exquisite cuisine: the taste of mountainous specialties is a highlight of Cao Bang and Bac Kan.

When to go? The best season to visit Cao Bang and Bac Kan is from August till December.

• Lenin stream - Pac Po cave
• Ban Gioc Waterfall
• Nguom Ngao Cave: One of the most beautiful caves in Vietnam, witness for yourself the interesting shape of the stalactite system in the cave.
• Ethnic villages in Bao Lac
• Ba Be National Park: Ba Be Lake, Puong Caves, Hua Ma, Dau Dang House,...
• Pac Ngoi village

The Gulf of Tonkin has an area of 123,700km2, the width of which is approximately 320km at its widest point and approximately 220km at its narrowest point. At the Gulf of Tonkin, you can visit stunning bays, among which the most famous is Halong Bay (in Quang Ninh province), one of the Seven Wonders of the World which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 2 values: the first time in 1994 for natural aesthetic value, the second time in 2000 for geological and geomorphological value. Now, they are investigating to recognize this bay for the third archaeological and biodiversity value.

In addition, in the Gulf of Tonkin, other attractions are Bai Tu Long Bay (also in Quang Ninh province) and Lan Ha Bay (in Hai Phong), which belongs to the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO.

When to go? The best time to take a Halong Bay cruise is from April to October because the weather is cool. You can participate in various outdoor activities like swimming, sun-bathing. Except on certain days with storms that normally fall in August, you can visit the bays at peace of mind.

Where to go? Ha Long Bay: Titov beach, Soi Sim beach, Surprise cave, Paradise cave, Dau Go cave

Bai Tu Long Bay: Thien Canh Son beach, Thien Canh Son cave

Lan Ha Bay: Ba Trai Dao beach, Cat Co beach, Trung Trang, Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai village, fishing village

>>> Read more about Halong Bay >>> Read more about Bai Tu Long Bay >>> Read more about Lan Ha Bay

Why Quang Binh?

• The destination is an ideal place for your trip because it fully converges for the following reasons.
• Many wonderful attractions: Nature has given people and land a great favour: a cave system, going through many tectonic processes deep in the majestic limestone mountains, the turquoise creek, and also the charming Nhat Le beach. It is a great place for those who love to immerse themselves in nature.
• Different and interesting tourist activities: You always find the suitable activities in Quang Binh. There are easy trekking routes, boat trips to the more "energetic" things like zip lining, kayaking. Possibly, there are also trekking routes for professional explorers to Hang En, Son Doong, Tu Lan,... which combine long-distance forest trekking, cave swimming and camping.

When to go? The dry season in Quang Binh starts from April to September. It's hot with quite strong sunshine, the average temperature is 36 - 37oC.

• Phong Nha - Ke Bang Phong National Park was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site for its geological and geomorphological values in 2003, and on July 3, 2015 it continued to be recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site for the second time with the criteria of biodiversity. So far the park still remains mysterious with so many hidden places in the middle of the forest, however so far if you come to the area, you can visit:
• Phong Nha Cave
• Thien Duong Cave
• Hang En Cave
• Tien Son Cave
• Chay River - Dark Cave
• Mooc Stream
• Tu Lan Cave
• Note: Son Doong Cave is the largest cave in the world which can hold a 40-story building. However it is not yet open for mass tourism.

• Unique Intact Relics of the Vietnamese Monarchy: Through so many historical changes, Hue still preserves very well hundreds of architecture and art works.
• Rich and Exquisite Cuisine: Hue's culinary culture attracts all visitors with its delicious taste and meticulous preparation.
• The Quiet Pace of Life: In the past, Hue was said to be very quiet and sad because of the very slow pace of life.
• Kind and hospitable people: In Hue, you can feel the warmth and hospitality of all the local people. In fact, the tranquillity and sweetness of the Hue’s woman are the infinite source of inspiration in many works of poetry and music in Vietnam

When to go? The best time to visit Hue is from January to September. January to April in Hue is spring, when you can feel quite comfortable because of the greatly reduced precipitation. The period from May to September falls in the dry period as the heat is really strong at noon.

• Forbidden Citadel
• The mausoleums of several Kings like Minh Mang, Tu Duc, Khai Dinh,...
• The quiet and charming handicraft villages: Phuoc Tich Ancient Village, Thuan Loc Embroidery Village, Phu Cam Hat Village, Hien Luong Smithing Village, Ke Mon Jewelry Village, My Xuyen Sculpture Village, Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village,...

The next destination in the list of best tourist places in Vietnam is Da Nang. Da Nang is the largest economic, cultural, educational, scientific and technological centre of Central Vietnam. It is an ideal summer vacation destination with countless attractive tourist attractions, fresh seafood and convenient air routes, convenient and vibrant nightlife.

Why Da Nang?

• Wealth of tourism activities: Attaching importance to tourism development from the beginning, Da Nang offers many different activities for tourists to make the most of the beauty of this modern and friendly city such as seeing the peculiar bridges, attending the Fire Festival of 'artifice, having fun at Asia Park... Also, thanks to Mother Earth, Da Nang is granted both sea and mountain. Visitors can participate in both mountain and bathing activities such as climbing the mountain, admiring the city from the view, parasailing, and riding a jet ski on My Khe beach.
• Vibrant nightlife: You cannot say that you are already in Da Nang without an evening outing in this city. All the bridges are bright, the night restaurants, the night market with the cultural and musical activities that change very often, boat evening dragon shape on the Han River...

When to go? Similar to Hue, the best time to visit this city is from January to September, when the weather is mild enough and less rain. However, from the end of April, the climate becomes more favourable for a seaside stay thanks to the fresh sea water..

• Ngu Hanh Son mountain
• Ba Na Hill: It is well-known for the Golden Hands Bridge.
• Linh Ung pagodas: in Da Nang there are 3 pagodas with the same name “Linh Ung”. The first and oldest pagoda is located in Ngu Hanh Son mountain, the second one in Ba Na mountain and last one in Son Tra peninsula.
• Bridges: In Da Nang there are many bridges and each has its unique architecture. The Han River Bridge is the first swing bridge designed and built by the Vietnamese. Tran Thi Ly bridge with the shape of a sail is the longest suspension bridge of Vietnam. Thuan Phuoc, the Dragon-shaped bridge, can sprinkle fire and water on the weekend. There is also a love bridge beside the Han River.

Hoi An was one of the most flourishing trading ports in Asia from the 16th to the 19th century. It attracted many traders from all over the world, especially China, Japan, India,... In 1999, this town was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage.

Why Hoi An?

• A living museum of history and culture: If you come to the Old Town in Hoi An, you will see many well-preserved old yellow houses with brown tiled roofs of the time.
• Town of tailor-made dresses with short time processing: In the early 20th century, Hoi An was already the famous place for cloth and clothing shops such as men's suit, women's dress. Until 2005, in Hoi An, there were about 350 good tailors in Hoi An. To meet the need of tourism, they have created a way to make clothes in a short time - just a few hours or a day to fit the short stay of tourists in this country.
• Good food to discover: The cuisine is a strong point of Hoi An, which is a mix between Chinese and Vietnamese. You can taste the “cao lau”, “hoanh thanh", rose cake, and also the “banh mi” variations with the original taste of Hoi An.
• Interesting and budget seaside resort: in Hoi An there are many beautiful beaches such as An Bang, Ha My, Nam Hoi An. Extending your few days to relax on Hoi An beaches is always a good option.

When to go? Except for November and December which are affected by storms, you can go to Hoi An at any other time of the year. However, if you also want to take advantage of the time in Hoi An to enjoy the sea, the recommended period is from April to the end of September.

• The historical centre.
• The surrounding handicraft villages: Tra Que Vegetable Village, Thanh Ha Terracotta Village, Cam Thanh Palm Village, Kim Bong Wooden Village.
• My Son Sanctuary: Travelling to the Shrine of My Son, visitors can admire the architectural structures of the Champa culture.

The Central Highlands have long become a favourite tourist destination for travellers who are passionate about discovering new lands. In Central Highlands, you will marvel at the beauty of majestic waterfalls, high mountains or vast green forests.

Why West Central Highlands?

• Wilderness: Tay Nguyen owns a green scenery of coffee hills, clear blue lakes, and the vast primaeval forests and hidden majestic waterfalls.
• Region of Ethnic Tribes: The Central Highlands region is the home of statistically 54 ethnic groups from the entire country. It is the region with the largest number of ethnic groups in Vietnam and it is also the only place where all linguistic groups of Vietnam coexist, of which the local ethnic minorities (EM) live together: Ba Na, MNong, Xo Dang, Co Ho, Roman, E De and Gia Rai,...
• In the area, there is an intangible cultural heritage recognized by Unesco: Gong culture space that is preserved in 5 provinces Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong and Lam Dong. Gong culture plays an important role in the spiritual life of ethnic minorities locals

When to go? The period from late November to April next year is the dry season so it is the best time to visit the Central Plateau. This is also the time when unique cultural festivals happen.

• Eye of Pleiku - Lake T'Nung
• Ta Dung Nature Reserve
• Lang Biang Plateau
• The waterfalls
• Yok Don National Park
• The village cafe at Tay Nguyen
• Ethnic villages

Click here to know more about the itineraries once you go to Tay Nguyen.

Sai Gon is the old name of Ho Chi Minh city which was renamed in 1975 to commemorate the great first president of the country. Now Saigon is the most important city and economic centre in Southern Vietnam.

Why Ho Chi Minh city?

• Historical Monuments: Saigon is known as the pearl of the orient with its elegant and dynamic beauty. The architectural works of Saigon, even if they are not as old as those of Hanoi, are the signs of a historic period of the country.
• The city that never sleeps: The dynamic life in Sai Gon makes us feel that this city does not have a minute of rest.
• Excellent services: People who work in the service industry will satisfy you with their concern, sweet words and friendly smiles.
• Diversity of cuisine: Sai Gon is not only rich in traditional dishes like other countries but also from Western cuisine, from fancy dishes to simple street food, from popular restaurants to bizarre restaurants.

In Sai Gon you can visit almost all year round.

• Historical monuments: Reunification Palace, Nha Rong Port, Central Post Office, Sai Gon Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, Grand Opera.
• Museums: War Museum, Ao Dai Museum, Hidden Weapons Museum, Fito Museum (Vietnam Traditional Medicines Museum)
• The Chinatown (Cho Lon): The area has religious monuments of Chinese culture such as Ngoc Hoang pagoda, Thien Hau temple.
• The Cu Chi tunnels: an underground accommodation of the Vietnamese army in the war against the Americans.

Mekong River Delta is the southernmost area of Vietnam where nature bestows the abundant resources, temperate climate, charming riverside combined with the unique cultural quintessence of the community of 4 ethnic groups including Kinh - Hoa - Cham - Khmer.

Why the Mekong River Delta?

• Beauty in harmony between life and rivers: Mekong River Delta area in Vietnam has more than 280,000 km of rivers and canals that are like rows of silk woven among the vast green carpets of four-season orchards, fields of flying storks ... Many people believe that in this region, wherever they go, they will encounter rivers. The life of the local people here is totally attached to the rivers, they recognize themselves in the local specialties, in the songs and in the daily habits.
• The diversity of culture: The Mekong Delta still retains the beauty of many Kinh - Hoa - Cham and Khmer cultures. Most of the people living in the area are Vietnamese- ethnic Kinh and Khmer - Khmer Krom by the way to call Cambodians while a small number of Cham also live near the Cambodian border. These Cham people, unlike those in other areas, don't patronize Hinduism, but Muslimism and don't really mix with each other. The cultural diversity of the area makes this place appear many different religions: Buddhism, Catholicism, Caodaism and Islam. Tourists visiting the southwestern land will have the opportunity to experience the cultural diversity and hospitality of the people here.

>> See more the beauty of Mekong Delta from above  

When to go? You can go to the Mekong Delta almost all year round. In the dry season from November to April, the rainfall is less so tourists can have a really pleasant trip. In the rainy season from May to October, you can easily experience boat rides through the canals and taste the tropical summer fruits.

• Ben Tre: Interlaced channels
• Cai Be: Cai Be has the colourful orchards
• Can Tho: lively floating markets, Bang Lang stork garden
• Long Xuyen: the local floating market, islets in the middle of the river
• Chau Doc: Sam Mountain, Ba Chua Xu temple, Hang Pagoda, Tra Su Cajuput Forest

For a memorable trip combining these amazing places, see more:

>>  1 Week in Vietnam: Your Perfect Travel Plan >>   Exploring the Best of Central Vietnam Itinerary >>   Vietnam Manners - Dos and Don'ts in Vietnam

Above we have introduced you to the the 15 best Vietnam tourist places in mainland. Hope that with the information you can plan a trip to experience our country’s cultural and natural beauty.

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Places To Visit in Vietnam

Here are the top 47 tourist places in vietnam.

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

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

Best Time: October to April

2. Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

Best Time: November to April

3. Halong Bay

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

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

Best Time: April to September

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

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

Best Time: February to July

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

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

Best Time: February to May

6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

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

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

Best Time: February to August

7. Nha Trang

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

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

Best Time: February to April

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

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

Best Time: January to April

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

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

Best Time: March to May

10. Phu Quoc

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

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

Best Time: November to March

11. Mekong Delta

11 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

Best Time: November to May

12. Ninh Binh

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

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

Best Time: Throughout the year

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

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

Best Time: December to March

14. Ba Be National Park

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

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

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

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

16. Bai Tu Long Bay

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

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

17. Bach Ma National Park

17 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

Best Time: June-August

18. Con Dao Islands

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

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

Best Time: November to February

19. Vung Tau

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

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

20. Dong Hoi

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

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

21. Dien Bien Phu

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

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

Best Time: April to June, September to November

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

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

23. Cat Tien National Park

23 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

Best Time: December to May

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

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

Best Time: December to April

25. Phan Thiet

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

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

Best Time: September to December

26. Lai Chau

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

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

27. Hoa Binh

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

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

Best Time: October to January

28. Lao Cai

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

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

Best Time: September to October

29. Haiphong

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

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

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

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

Best Time: June to October

31. Mong Cai

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

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

Best Time: April to July

32. Vinh Long

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

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

Best Time: January to March

33. Tuy Hoa

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

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

34. Mai Chau

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

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

35 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

Best Time: July to October

36. Quy Nhon

36 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

37. Bien Hoa

37 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

38. Cao Lanh

38 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

Best Time: October to December

39. Hai Van Pass

39 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

40 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

41. Tay Ninh

41 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

42. Kon Tum

42 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

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

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Northern Vietnam Off the Beaten Track: 12 Alternative & Underrated Destinations for Your Travel Itinerary

Posted: April 27, 2024 | Last updated: April 28, 2024

Yen Bai Province

Dong Van Karst Plateau

Cao Bang Province:

Bai Tu Long Bay

Cat Ba Island

Mai Chau Valley:

Hoa Binh Province

Ba Be National Park

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

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