tourist spot vietnam

17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

1. Halong Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Vietnam

15 Things to do in Vietnam + Tourist Spots

Vietnam is most known for its turbulent wartime history, delicious food, and Ha Long Bay. Before arriving in the country and traveling around its countrysides, little did I know that it is also home to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Southeast Asia, and charming heritage sites that are worth a peek.

Vietnam’s tourist spots are broadly spread out in its northern, central, and southern regions. The country isn’t overwhelmingly massive, but unless you’re traveling long-term or plan to stick to just one or two regions, you will have to pick destinations to skip or prioritize.

To make it easy for you to decide on where to go, here’s a list of my favorite places to visit in Vietnam:

Vietnam travel essentials: (click below to view prices online)

Where to stay Tours + discounts Vietnam fares

Vietnam WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to Visit in Vietnam  |  Ho Chi Minh Itinerary  |  Things to do in Hanoi  |  Indochina Travel Guide .

If you love visiting historic places, this heritage city in Central Vietnam is a must-visit. Hoi An is a riverside town with an old-world charm. It’s filled with vintage buildings influenced by Vietnamese, French, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles. Delicious local food is also a major attraction here. The city’s magical atmosphere comes alive under the romantic sunset light and at night when the houses, temples, and shops are lit up.

Location : Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

How to go :

The most popular gateway to Hoi An is Da Nang in Central Vietnam. nearest major city. There are a lot of convenient transport options between the two cities. Travel time is only around 45 minutes.

Hoi An Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

My Son & Hoi An Private Day Tour from Da Nang

Basket Boat Ride Admission Ticket in Hoi An

Hoi An City and Countryside Tour

See more : Hoi An travel tips

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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There seems to be something interesting to discover at every street corner in historic Hanoi, especially in the old quarter of the city. It’s one of the best cities in Southeast Asia to explore on foot. Hanoi also has scenic lakes that are best viewed from rooftop restaurants or bars, while enjoying traditional Vietnamese coffee or a chilled bottle of Saigon beer.

Location : Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hanoi along with Ho Chi Minh is one of the major international gateways in Vietnam, so getting by air is very easy. Hanoi-Noi Bai International Airport found 45 minutes away from the city center serves frequent flights from Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Manila, Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, Beijing. As well as major cities in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the Middle East and more. Major airlines include AirAsia, Jetstar, VietJet, Vietnam Airlines. From the Philippines, Manila-Hanoi flights are served by Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and Vietnam Airlines. Flight duration is around 2.5 hours.

Hanoi Travel Essentials

Private Noi Bai Airport Transfers (HAN) for Hanoi City or Halong Bay

Hanoi Private Car Charter

Private City Transfers for Hanoi City and Surrounding Areas

See more : Hanoi travel tips

3. Ho Chi Minh

Bustling Ho Chi Minh, on its own, may pale as a travel destination compared to other cities in Southeast Asia, but it is a necessary transport hub if you plan to explore Southern Vietnam. In case you find yourself in Ho Chi Minh, the city center offers interesting cultural sights, urban experiences, Vietnamese food+coffee & cheap shopping, in addition to scenic day trips to the Mekong Delta.

Location : Ho Chi Minh City, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Ho Chi Minh’s International Airport is the busiest airport in Vietnam. Found 45 minutes away from the city center, this airport serves frequent flights from Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Manila, Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, Beijing, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Melbourne & Sydney. As well as major cities in New Zealand, Europe, Middle East and more. Major airlines include AirAsia, Jetstar, VietJet & Vietnam Airlines. From the Philippines, Manila-Hanoi flights are served by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Vietnam Airlines. Flight duration is around 2.5 hours.

Ho Chi Minh Travel Essentials

Full Day Mekong Delta Excursion from Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City-Mekong Delta River Cruise

Ho Chi Minh Private Car Charter

See more : Ho Chi Minh travel tips

Location : Phan Thiet, Bình Thuận Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Mui Ne Travel Essentials

Mui Ne Private Jeep Tour

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Mui Ne via Shuttle Bus

Private Da Lat Airport Transfers (DLI) for Da Lat City, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and Tuyen Lam Lake

See more : Mui Ne travel tips

Location : Lâm Đồng Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Da Lat Travel Essentials

Robin Hill Cable Car in Da Lat

Da Lat City Day Tour

Da Lat Countryside Day Tour

See more : Da Lat travel tips

Da Nang is one of the biggest surprises on my first visit to Central Vietnam. It’s a major tourist hub with its own set of attractions and convenient direct domestic and international flight connections. Da Nang is a great place to visit for travelers who aren’t ready to leave their urban comfort zones. This clean, modern, and laid-back city is bordered by a long white sand beach that is lined with top-notch resorts. The riverside area of the city center feels more like a huge outdoor theme park with well-maintained promenades, iconic bridges lit up at night, and the Sun Wheel (giant Ferris Wheel).

Location : Hải Châu District, Da Nang, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

After Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang’s airport is the next most well-connected international airport in Vietnam. Da Nang International Airport (DAD) serves direct flights from Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul-Incheon, Shanghai-Pudong, Siem Reap, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo-Narita. As well as flights from major domestic destinations including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Buon Ma Thuot, Hai Phong, Pleiku, Vinh, Can Tho, Da Lat & Nha Trang. Major airlines include AirAsia, Jetstar, China Eastern, Silk Air, Vietjet & Vietnam Airlines. Travel time by flight to Da Nang is around 1.5 hours from Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh.

Da Nang Travel Essentials

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour

Cham Islands Day Tour from Da Nang

Da Nang Airport (DAD) Private Transfers for Da Nang, Ba Na Hills & more

See more : Da Nang travel tips

Hue is central Vietnam was the seat of Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802-1945. It is home to a massive royal citadel called the Forbidden Purple City, which admittedly sounds more interesting than the actual war-ravaged site. For travelers who love visiting heritage sites, a more tempting incentive to visit Hue are exquisite imperial tombs scattered around the outskirts of the city.

Location : Thua Thien Hue Province, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hue, in Central Vietnam, is located two hours north of Danang. The best way to get there is by train, which offers scenic coastal views along the Hai Van Pass. If you want to fly directly, Hue-Phu Bai Airport (HUI) serves flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat & Nha Trang. Airlines include Vietjet, Jetstar & Vietnam Airlines. Travel time to Hue-Phu Bai Airport takes around 1 hour from Hanoi and 1.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh.

Hue Travel Essentials

Hue Private Day Tour from Da Nang

Hue heritage sites join-in tour

Phong Nha Cave Exploration from Hue

See more : Hue travel tips

8. Phong Nha

If this is your first time to know about Phong Nha, join the club! Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng National Park located in Central Vietnam might not be popular as other places featured on this list, but it has something special to offer that is unrivaled not only Vietnam, but all of Southeast Asia, and maybe even the World — it’s massive and insanely beautiful caves.

Location : Quang Binh Province, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Phong Nga, in Central Vietnam, is 4–5 hours north of Hue by land or 7 hours north of Da Nang. If you are coming from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, consider a flight or train to Dong Hoi. Then, continue the 45-minute land trip to Phong Nha by shuttle. Flights are operated by Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific, and VietjetAir. Flight duration to Dong Hoi Airport (VDH) is around 1 hour from Hanoi (HAN), and 2 hours from Ho Chi Minh (SGN).

Phong Nha Travel Essentials

Phong Nha National Park and Paradise Cave Day Tour in Quang Binh

Phong Nha River Cruise Day Tour in Quang Binh

See more : Phong Nha travel tips

9. Ninh Binh

Touted as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is filled with steep karst mountains soaring amidst tranquil rice paddies, meandering rivers, and dotted with temples and ancient settlements. The best way to explore the area is on a scenic boat ride that passes through the mountainscape or by following the riverside path by bicycle. Ninh Binh is two hours away from Hanoi in Northern Vietnam.

Ninh Binh is around 2 hours south of Hanoi by land. You can go on the bus from Giap Bat (Southern) Bus Terminal or a train on the Reunification Express. To get around Ninh Binh, you can either join an organized tour or go on a do-it-yourself (DIY) tour by bicycle/motorcycle.

Location : Ninh Bình Province, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Ninh Binh Travel Essentials

Hanoi-Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Private Day Tour

Mua Cave and Trang An Tour from Hanoi

See more : Ninh Binh travel tips

10. Ha Long Bay

No doubt Ha Long Bay is beautiful. With over 1,600 towering karst islands and islets, it’s a natural wonder worth a peek. However, if you’ve been to Krabi (Thailand) or El Nido (Philippines), do not expect too much with the quality of the water. The area that surrounds the bay is simply not as pristine, even under the bluest of skies. If you’re already traveling in Hanoi & Northern Vietnam, consider a trip to nearby Ha Long bay.

Location : Quảng Ninh Province, nothern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Ha Long City is the main jump-off point to the islands surrounding Ha Long Bay. The land journey from Hanoi takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. There are many shuttle/bus companies operating this route with pick-up directly from your hotel. You can easily book one at your hotel or by shopping around the travel agencies in Hanoi Old Quarter. To get around the bay, you have many options including sightseeing day trips to multi-day overnight cruises.

Ha Long Bay Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

11. Ban Gioc Waterfall & Cao Bang

If you’ve read my other best places to visit lists, you may already know about my fascination for beautiful waterfalls. Cao Bang in Northern Vietnam is home to Ban Gioc Waterfall, the most majestic in Vietnam. Half of this massive cascade sits on the Chinese border and is called Delian Waterfall on the other side.

Location : Cao Bằng Province, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Total travel time from Hanoi to Ban Gioc is around 8 to 11 hours. If you want convenient transfers, consider booking an organized tour. If you want to go on your own, local buses to Cao Bang depart from My Dinh Bus Terminal in Hanoi. Travel time is 7.5–8 hours. From Cao Bang, minibus and shuttles go all the way to Ban Gioc Waterfall. Travel time is 2.5–3 hours.

Cao Bang Travel Essentials

12. Sa Pa & North Vietnam

Sa Pa, Vietnam

Location : Lao Cai Province, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Sa Pa Travel Essentials

Shared Limousine Transfer from Hanoi to Sapa

Shared City Transfers (VIP Cabin) between Hanoi and Sapa

13. Nha Trang

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Location : Khanh Hoa Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Nha Trang Travel Essentials

Da Lat to Mui Ne, Nha Trang or HCMC Car Transfer

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Nha Trang via Limousine

14. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Location : Kien Giang Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Phu Quoc Travel Essentials

15. Con Dao Islands

Con Dao Islands, Vietnam. Photo by vanlaphoang1945 via Flickr

Location : Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Con Dao Travel Essentials

Beyond Vietnam

Angkor Wat (temple) view from the reflecting pond

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Cambodia Travel Essentials

Angkor Wat & Little Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Banteay Srei & Angkor Grand Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Siem Reap Private Car Charter

See more : Cambodia travel tips

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

See more : Thailand travel tips

Tat Fane Waterfall near Paksong, in Bolaven Plateau, Champasak, Laos

Laos Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour from Luang Prabang

Vientiane – Vang Vieng Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

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Braemar Hill Peak in Hong Kong

Location : Southeast China, East Asia . Save on Google Maps .

Hong Kong Travel Essentials

Hong Kong Disneyland Admission Ticket

Ocean Park Hong Kong Admission Ticket

Victoria Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428

See more : Hong Kong travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Vietnam that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam tourist spots, things to do in Vietnam, where to go in Vietnam & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

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October 16, 2015 at 10:48 pm

Thanks for sharing your travel to Vietnam. Been to Saigon in 2011 and been wanting to go to Hanoi. Never knew about the other worth visiting places until you shared your wonderful pictures. Is it hard to tour Halong Bay? Would it be just fine skipping Halong Bay when I go to Hanoi?

October 16, 2015 at 11:23 pm

My pleasure Manuel :) There are still more potentially worthy places to visit in Vietnam. I want to go back as well, particularly, for Sa Pa and Da Lat. I booked an overnight boat cruise in Ha Long Bay for $80. I had a very bad experience with both the booking and tour agency. Touring Ha Long Bay is easy since you just have to turn up at the travel agencies in Hanoi or Ha Long City at least a day before (or book online). It’s finding a decent tour agency / boat operator that is the tricky part.

If the weather is too cloudy or rainy, I would skip Ha Long Bay. I enjoyed Ninh Binh and Phong Nha a lot more than Ha Long Bay.

October 13, 2017 at 7:32 pm

Amazing Vietnam!!!!

December 26, 2017 at 9:31 pm

What an amazing and informative blog marcos.One should definitely go through the blog if he/she is travelling to vietnam.This country has a blend of chinese as well as french culture so anyone can feel the presence of both the cultures.

April 24, 2020 at 10:15 am

I’m Vietnamese and living in Hanoi but I haven’t had opportunity to visit of all these places. Now I got more motivation to visit more places in the Southern of Vietnam, especially Mui Ne Beach! About the last place Can Dao Island, actually its name is Con Dao, not Can Dao. Anyway, thank you for sharing the destinations to visit.

October 23, 2022 at 5:53 pm

Thank You Marcos, i have been following you in IG and i love all your post. I am an Ilongga also from Bacolod city but now reside in the US for 35 years. I am planning to visit southeast asia this december 2022 but only have 3 days to spend in Vietnam, so which one is the best to visit? Thank You!

October 26, 2022 at 5:00 pm

Hi Nadia, visit Hanoi to enjoy the food and historical sites then enjoy a day trip to Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay

21 of the Most Beautiful Places in Vietnam to Visit

Here is the ultimate list of the most beautiful places in Vietnam that you must visit. We are currently on a mission to visit all 58 provinces and tick off all the incredible sites each province has to offer. You can find all the best places to visit in Vietnam by region; north, central, and south. You will find popular backpacker hotspots and hidden gems mainly visited by locals. You will find everything from mountainous regions, and beach destinations, to cultural escapes.

The most beautiful places in Vietnam in the north

Northern Vietnam is blessed with stunning mountains, incredible nature, and unique culture. You will find plenty to keep you occupied for your journey in this region. Northern Vietnam has a total of 23 provinces. In this section, you will find the best provinces to visit, significant landmarks, and activities.

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Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is an enchanting destination with a rich history and vibrant culture. Hanoi is steeped in history, with landmarks and monuments that reflect its past. Make sure to visit The Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Hoa Lo Prison. For charming lakes and green spaces, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city. Hanoi is also famous for its street food culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local dishes like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and egg coffee. Make sure to explore the bustling street food markets like Dong Xuan Market or the Night Market , which are delightful experiences in themselves.

Recommended duration: 2 – 3 nights

Places to visit / landmarks: Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoa Lo Prison, Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street.

Activities: Take a food tour, party in the Old Quarter

Accommodation: Acoustic Hotel & Spa or Nexy Hostel

Ninh Binh is a beautiful province known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Ninh Binh is home to Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area boasts a magnificent karst landscape with limestone cliffs, caves, and rivers, making it perfect for boat tours and exploring the stunning surroundings. As well as Trang An, visitors also opt to stay in the Tam Coc scenic area. Tam Coc is known as the “Halong Bay on land”. Tam Coc offers a breathtaking experience with its limestone caves, rice paddies, and serene river cruises. You can take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River , passing through caves and admiring the surrounding scenery. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu is a must. Experience the rich cultural heritage by exploring the ancient temples and learning about the fascinating history of Vietnam.

Recommended duration: 2 nights

Places to visit / landmarks: Trang An Landscape Complex, Tam Coc scenic area, Bich Dong Pagoda, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Hang Mua Cave

Activites: Boat rides, cycle through the rice paddies, try the local speciality; goat meat

Accommodation: Hotel Tam Coc Golden Rice or The Banana Tree Hostel

Quang Ninh (Ha Long Bay)

Quang Ninh Province is home to one of Vietnam’s most famous attractions; Ha Long Bay. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a place where nature’s artistry is on full display. It is a natural beauty of Vietnam. Picture yourself surrounded by thousands of limestone karsts and isles rising dramatically from the emerald waters, creating a captivating and ethereal landscape that feels like something out of a dream. For those seeking adventure, Ha Long Bay offers a plethora of exciting activities. Such as kayaking through hidden lagoons and discovering secluded beaches and secret caves.

Recommended duration: 2 days, 1 night on a Ha Long Bay cruise

Activites: Kayaking, relaxing, enjoying seafood treats

The most famous, and undoubtedly one of the most upcoming tourist spots in Vietnam is the Ha Giang Loop . The route is often completed on a motorbike; by yourself, as part of a tour group , or with an experienced local rider. The Ha Giang Loop is a breathtakingly beautiful and off-the-beaten-path destination in northern Vietnam. The Ha Giang Loop is renowned for its stunning landscapes, with towering limestone mountains, deep valleys, and winding roads that offer panoramic views at every turn. The landscape is dotted with terraced rice fields, colourful hill tribes villages, and dramatic rock formations, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. The region is home to various ethnic minority groups, such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay. Interacting with these communities and learning about their traditions and way of life is an enriching experience. You can visit local markets, try traditional foods, and even stay in homestays to immerse yourself in their culture.

Recommended duration: 3 – 5 nights depending on how many stops you want to make

Places to visit / landmarks:

Activities: Motorbiking, boat ride on Nho Que River

Accommodation: A range of guesthouses

Lao Cai (Sapa)

Sapa is known for its breathtaking scenery, with terraced rice fields, lush mountains, and picturesque valleys. The views are especially stunning during the rice harvesting season (September to October) when the fields turn golden yellow. Trekking is a popular activity in Sapa. You can explore surrounding villages and visit ethnic minority communities. Popular trekking routes include Fansipan Mountain, Muong Hoa Valley, and Cat Cat Village. On these trekking routes, you can learn about the ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people. Sapa is also home to Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Vietnam. It is known as the “Roof of Indochina”. For adventure thrill-seekers, you have the option to climb the 3,147-meter mountain. Alternatively, you can take a cable car ride to enjoy the scenery without physical exertion.

Places to visit / landmarks: Visit ethnic minorities as part of a tour , Fansipan Mountain, Sapa town centre

Activities: trekking tours and enjoying local delicacies

Accommodation: Pistachio Hotel or May Ho Hotel

Hai Phong (Cat Ba)

Cat Ba is the largest of a complex of islands belonging to Hai Phong City. The island is a perfect base for exploring the breathtaking Halong Bay. Take a boat tour or cruise, kayak through the limestone karsts, and visit the hidden caves and floating fishing villages. The island is also home to Cat Ba National Park. This national park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to a diverse ecosystem. Hike through the lush forest trails, spot rare wildlife like the Cat Ba langur (one of the world’s most endangered primates), and enjoy panoramic views from the mountain summit. Other popular activities visitors enjoy on Cat Ba Island are relaxing on the beaches, rock climbing opportunities, cycling or motorbiking along scenic coastal roads and enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside.

Places to visit / landmarks: Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba National Park

Activities : Take a boat trip, hiking, rock climbing, relaxing

Accommodation: Cat Ba Friendly Family Hotel or Cat Ba Backpacker Hostel

Cao Bang is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Ban Gioc Waterfall , one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam. The region is also home to serene lakes, lush forests, and picturesque mountains, making it a paradise for nature lovers. If you are an adventure seeker, Cao Bang offers various outdoor activities. You can trek through the rugged mountains, explore caves, go kayaking or rafting in the rivers, or even try rock climbing. The region’s diverse terrain provides ample opportunities for adrenaline-pumping adventures.

Places to visit / landmarks: Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguon Ngao Cave, Angel Eye Mountain

Activities : Trekking, motorbiking, kayaking

Accommodation: Primrose Homestay or Yen Nhi Homestay Ban Gioc

Hoa Binh (Mai Chau)

Mai Chau is a beautiful rural district located in the Hoa Binh province of Vietnam. It is known for its stunning landscapes, surrounded by lush green rice paddies, towering limestone mountains, and peaceful valleys. The region is home to the White Thai ethnic minority group, who have preserved their traditional way of life for centuries. You can immerse yourself in their unique culture, witness their traditional dances, music, and handicrafts, and even stay in a traditional stilt house overnight. It is the perfect location to experience a homestay with a local family. It allows you to get a deeper understanding of the local culture, customs, and daily life.

Places to visit / landmarks: Hang Chieu Cave, Hoa Binh Lake

Activities : Cycle Mai Chau Valley, sleep in a stilt house

Accommodation: Mai Chau Mountain View Resort or Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort

Son La (Moc Chau)

Moc Chau is a beautiful highland district located in Son La Province. It is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, including rolling hills, green tea fields, flower gardens, and ethnic minority villages. Moc Chau is renowned for its tea plantations, producing some of the best quality green tea in Vietnam. Visitors can explore the tea gardens, learn about tea production, and even participate in tea harvesting and processing activities. In addition, there are many ethnic minority villages in Moc Chau, such as the White Thai, H’Mong, and Dao communities. Popular attractions in Moc Chau include Moc Chau Island , home to the Guinness World Record glass bridge, the Moc Chau Plateau, Dai Yem Waterfall, Pha Luong Peak, and the heart-shaped tea hill.

Places to visit / landmarks: Moc Chau Island, Dai Yem Waterfall, Bat Cave, Chi Lon Village

Activities : Walk the glass bridge, take photos, indulge in BBQ & Hotpot, photoshoot at tea plantations

Accommodation: MAMA’s House

Thanh Hoa (Pu Luong)

Pu Luong is a nature reserve located in the Thanh Hoa province. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush rice terraces, and traditional ethnic minority villages. The area is popular among nature lovers and adventurers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience in Vietnam. Pu Luong offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, cycling, and exploring the local villages. The reserve is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Thai and Muong people, who have preserved their unique traditions and way of life. There are also several scenic waterfalls in Pu Luong, such as the Hieu Waterfall and the Kho Muong Waterfall, where visitors can swim and relax in the natural pools.

Places to visit / landmarks: Pho Doan Market, Thac Hieu Waterfall

Activities : Bamboo rafting, eating local cuisine, relaxing in a resort

Accommodation: Pu Luong Natura

Phu Tho (Viet Tri City)

Phu Tho is certainly an off-the-beaten-path destination in Vietnam. The main city in Phu Tho province is Viet Tri City, which is ideal to base yourself when exploring this province. One of the main attractions is Hung Kings Temple. This is one of the most important historical and cultural sites in Vietnam, dedicated to the legendary Hung Kings who are considered the founders of the nation. The temple complex is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a chance to learn about Vietnamese history. The best time to visit is during the annual festival, held around April 7th each year. The festival includes traditional ceremonies, processions, and folk performances, and attracts visitors from all over the country. Other attractions include Xuan Son National Park and Long Coc tea fields. Both are great places for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike through lush forests, explore caves, go bird-watching, or enjoy a picnic amidst scenic waterfalls.

Places to visit / landmarks: Hung Kings Temple, Xuan Son National Park, Long Coc tea fields

Accommodation: Saigon Phu Tho Hotel

Vinh Phuc (Tam Dao)

If you’re looking for unique places to visit in Vietnam, Tam Dao should certainly be on the list. Tam DaoTam Dao is a mountainous area located about 50 kilometres away from Hanoi. It is well-known for its cool climate, beautiful scenery, and lush green forests. Tam Dao National Park national park is an excellent place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. You can hike through the forest, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and spot various species of plants and animals. The town itself is inspired by the French colonial era. When you arrive, it is like you have been transported to Europe. One of the main attractions is Tam Dao Stone Church, which offers a unique blend of European and Vietnamese architectural styles.

Places to visit / landmarks: Stone church, Sky Gate viewpoint, Tam Dao Castle, Silver Waterfall, Rock Cafe

Activities : Sample the cuisine, visit the night market, hiking

Accommodation: Camellia Luxury Hotel or Hung Trang Hotel

The most beautiful places in Central Vietnam

If you’re travelling in Central Vietnam, you’re in for a treat of beach bars, lanterns, old towns, snorkelling, and much more. Central Vietnam has a total of 19 provinces.

Thua Thien-Hue Province (Hue)

Hue is a beautiful city located in central Vietnam, known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes. The number one attraction in Hue is the Imperial City, which was once the residence of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. Along the Perfume River, you can discover the elaborate royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. Popular ones include the Tomb of Khai Dinh and the Tomb of Tu Duc. Other activities include taking a boat ride on the Perfume River with a stop off at the popular Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hue located on the riverbank. In recent years, another popular attraction is Hue’s abandoned water park .

Places to visit / landmarks: Hue Imperial City, Royal Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda

Activities : Boat ride on the Perfume River

Accommodation: Vinpearl Hotel or Bon Ami Hostel

Quang Nam (Hoi An)

Hoi An is a charming and picturesque city, known for its well-preserved Ancient Town. With plenty of things to do in Hoi An , you could spend weeks here. It is also one of the best tourist places in Vietnam. Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. It offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history with its well-preserved architecture, narrow streets, and historic buildings dating back to the 15th century. The town’s unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences makes it a truly fascinating place to explore. Hoi An is a melting pot of cultures, and this is evident in its diverse traditions, customs, and festivals. You can witness traditional ceremonies, visit old temples, and even participate in lantern-making or traditional Vietnamese cooking classes.

Recommended duration: 4 nights

Places to visit / landmarks: Ancient Town, Japanese Bridge, An Bang beach

Activities : Basket boat ride , cooking class, lantern making, get clothes tailor-made

Accommodation: Cozy Savvy Boutique Hotel or Backhome Hostel & Bar

Da Nang is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. One of the most popular and stunning beaches in Danang is My Khe Beach, where you can spend the day relaxing. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or even trying out water sports like surfing or jet-skiing. A short drive away you will find Marble Mountains. The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills. Climb to the top for panoramic views, visit ancient pagodas, and explore stunning caves filled with Buddhist shrines. By night, enjoy Da Nang’s iconic Dragon Bridge, Every weekend, the bridge comes to life with a spectacular fire and water show. If you’re looking for a day trip just outside of Danang City, consider heading over to Sun World Ba Na Hills , a french inspired town and home to the Instagram-worthy hand bridge.

Places to visit / landmarks: Marble Mountains, Sun World Ba Na Hills, Dragon Bridge

Activities : Relax on the beaches

Accommodation: Sofiana My Khe Hotel or The Secret Garden

The most beautiful places in Vietnam in the south

South Vietnam boats a range of scenery, from the concrete jungle of Ho Chi Minh City to the mountainous lover’s paradise of Dalat. With plenty of attractions to explore, you’re sure to have an incredible time. Southern Vietnam has a total of 17 provinces.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a vibrant and bustling city. It is the largest city in the country and offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Firstly, you should take a visit to the War Remnant Museum. This museum provides a glimpse into the history of the Vietnam War through various photographs, artefacts, and exhibits. It offers an emotional and thought-provoking experience. Take the opportunity to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels . These underground tunnels played a significant role during the Vietnam War. Take a guided tour to learn about their construction, purpose, and how they were used by Viet Cong soldiers. As well as learning about history, make sure to take advantage of the shopping opportunities in famous markets such as Ben Thanh Market. Enjoy evening strolls around Nguyen Hue Walking Street, or party the night away on Bui Vien.

Recommended duration: 3 nights

Places to visit / landmarks: War Remnant Museum, Ben Thanh Market, Bui Vien, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Cu Chi Tunnels, Bitexco Tower

Activities: Food & motorbike tour

Accommodation: Sedona Suites or Saigon Fantastic Hostel

Are you yearning for a beach vacation in a tropical paradise? Look no further than Nha Trang, Vietnam’s coastal gem that promises to inspire and captivate you with its stunning beauty. The pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Nha Trang’s beaches are simply breathtaking. Relax under the warm sun or take a refreshing dip in the ocean while marvelling at the picturesque surroundings. Hop on a boat tour from Nha Trang and explore the nearby islands dotted amidst the sea. Hon Mun Island is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling or scuba diving enthusiasts. Discover marine life like colourful fish, turtles, and even rare seahorses as you immerse yourself in this underwater wonderland. For a cultural aspect, discover the rich history and culture of Nha Trang by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Po Nagar Cham Towers. These ancient Hindu temples were built between the 7th and 12th centuries.

Places to visit / landmarks: Egg Mud Baths, Po Nagar Cham

Activities : Snorkelling, boat trips, relaxing

Accommodation: Queen Ann Hotel or Mojzo Inn

Dalat boasts breathtaking scenery that will leave you awe-inspired at every turn. From lush green valleys to cascading waterfalls, this region is blessed with abundant natural beauty, there’s plenty to see and do . The mesmerizing landscapes include the serene Tuyen Lam Lake, the vibrant flower gardens of Valley of Love, and the majestic Elephant Waterfall – all waiting to captivate your senses. Stepping into Dalat feels like entering a time capsule due to its well-preserved French colonial architecture dating back to the early 20th century. Explore iconic landmarks such as Bao Dai Summer Palace or Domaine de Marie Church. If you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, Dalat offers an exhilarating canyoning expedition, the opportunity to conquer the challenging Langbiang Mountain or go mountain biking through scenic trails.

Places to visit / landmarks: Clay Tunnel, Linh Phuoc Pagoda, Crazy House, Elephant Falls, Flower Garden

Activities : Trekking, canyoning, eat Dalat pizza, explore by scooter or bicyle, Boat ride on the lake

Accommodation: Original Kens Backpacker Hostel or Dalat Backpackers Hostel

Phu Quoc boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in Southeast Asia. Long Beach (Bai Truong) stretches for over 20 kilometres, offering soft white sands and calm turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling excursions , swimming or simply sunbathing. Sao Beach (Bai Sao) is another popular spot known for its powdery sand and stunning palm-fringed coastline. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Phu Quoc’s beaches have something to offer everyone. Aside from its beautiful beaches, Phu Quoc Island is home to lush forests and diverse wildlife that nature enthusiasts will find captivating. Explore the mesmerizing Phu Quoc National Park, where you can hike through dense jungles and discover rare plant species amidst cascading waterfalls. Don’t miss a visit to Suoi Tranh Waterfall, which offers a refreshing dip in its natural pools after an invigorating hike.

Places to visit / landmark s: Long Beach, Sao Beach, Phu Quoc National Park, Aqutopia Waterpark, Suoi Tranh Waterfall

Activities : Swimming, snorkelling

Accommodation: Sunset Beach Resort & Spa or Fortuna Hotel

Mui Ne boasts some of Vietnam’s most picturesque beaches with pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Whether you want to relax under palm trees while sipping on a refreshing coconut or engage in thrilling water sports like kiteboarding or windsurfing, these idyllic beaches offer something for everyone. Mui Ne’s sand dunes are also something to marvel at. The red and white dunes contrast as they create an ethereal atmosphere during sunrise or sunset – perfect for photography enthusiasts! A stone’s throw away you will find the Fairy Stream. Immerse yourself in nature’s whimsy at Fairy Stream – a small, magical water stream surrounded by towering cliffs adorned with vibrant colours and patterns. There is even the option to explore Mui Ne and the attractions by jeep. You can book your jeep tour here .

Places to visit / landmarks: Red and white sand dunes, Fairy Stream

Activities : Relaxing on the beaches, snorkelling, watersports, enjoy seafood delicacies

Accommodation: Victoria Phan Thiet Beach Resort & Spa or Mui Ne Ocean House

Mekong Delta

A trip to the Mekong Delta is not to be missed when in Vietnam. The Mekong Delta is home to a diverse mix of ethnic communities, each with its own distinct traditions and customs. Explore local villages along the riverbanks, witness traditional handicrafts being made by skilled artisans, and savour authentic Vietnamese cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from the delta’s fertile lands. Prepare to be awestruck by nature’s masterpiece as you cruise along the winding waterways of the Mekong River. Marvel at lush rice paddies stretching endlessly across the horizon, dotted with coconut groves and fruit orchards laden with tropical fruits like mangoes and dragon fruits. The mesmerizing blend of verdant landscapes against azure skies will leave you enchanted at every turn.

Places to visit / landmarks: Floating Market, Ben Tre

Activities : Boat rides, witness handicrafts being made, learn about the ethnic minorities

Accommodation: The Mekong Delta can be explored by day trip from Ho Chi Minh City , or you can book overnight tours to the Mekong Delta with overnight accommodation included

Essential resources for travelling in Vietnam

Travel Insurance – It’s a good idea to have insurance, particularly if you’re going to be riding a motorbike. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. It can be purchased whilst already travelling and there is no cap on travel duration.

Visa – You are highly likely to need a visa for Vietnam. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. You can quickly make a visa application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend almost always to have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . They have routes all over Vietnam and host a range of transport modes and companies. It is easy to book online and have your ticket sent to your phone.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities for Vietnam online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

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29 Unique & Beautiful Places to Visit in Vietnam (+ Tips from a Local)

When planning a trip to Vietnam, the top question comes up – Where are the best places to visit in Vietnam? 

Whether it’s your first time visiting Vietnam or a return trip, it’s a tough question since Vietnam is a long S-shaped country. There are many factors involved on where to visit in Vietnam such as the amount of time in the country, personal preferences on things to do, weather, travel budget , and much more. 

Even though we’ve lived long-term in Vietnam for over 4 years and had a chance to explore a lot of Vietnam cities from North to South, there are too many epic and pretty places to see in this country. 

Without further ado, here are the 29 unique and beautiful places to visit in Vietnam . These are our favorite Vietnam destinations to visit from North, Central , to South Vietnam . We’re ranging from the popular, must-visit touristy cities to the off-the-beaten locations , pretty islands , hiking spots , and more. We’re also sharing fun things and bucket list activities to do in each of the cities and other helpful travel tips.

This post is a work in progress as we’ll continue to add more places when we travel around the country. 

Let’s bring out the wanderlust and get you excited for your future trip to Vietnam. 

To help you navigate this post more efficiently, click on the following links to jump to certain sections of Vietnam’s best places to visit. 

Map of Where to Go in Vietnam

Must visit places in vietnam.

• Beautiful Places to Visit in Vietnam

Unique Places to Visit in Vietnam

Before reading on where to go in Vietnam, check out Vietnam travel posts to help with your planning:

• How to Travel Around Vietnam
• Must Have Vietnam Travel Apps
• Souvenirs to Buy in Vietnam
• Why Visit Vietnam
• What to Pack for Vietnam

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

Click on the map to see a larger view of the top places to visit in Vietnam. Credit: Map data: Google

A trip to Vietnam would not be complete without visiting the capital city, Hanoi ( Hà Nội in Vietnamese). It’s a fantastic starting point for any Vietnam itinerary as an introduction to the country. 

Most visitors stay in the Old Quarter area . It’s a bustling area to wander through the small shops for souvenirs and shopping. You’ll notice that each street specializes in something such as toys, silk, bamboo, etc. You can also wander around to try street food and hang out at the cafes . Just be careful when you’re crossing the street as the cars and motorbikes will not stop for you. 

Stop by the iconic spots such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where Ho Chi Minh, the main proponent of Communism, is embalmed, and Ho Kiem Lake in the center of the city. Other cultural places to visit include Tran Quoc Pagoda, The Temple of Literature, and One Pillar Pagoda. One of the coolest experiences is to see a train pass by when relaxing at a cafe along Train Street. 

From here, you can visit other areas of Northern Vietnam by train or overnight bus.

Hanoi is an important place to visit when visiting Vietnam. Photo credit: Diana Bulavko via Scopio Photos

2. Halong Bay

Halong Bay ( Hạ Long Bay ) is a famous place to visit in North Vietnam. Located in Quang Ninh Province, it’s recognized as one of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Visitors take a day trip, overnight, or a multi-day (2-3 days) cruise on a junker and travel through the limestone karst of the bay. 

While a day trip along Halong Bay is doable, it’s recommended to spend at least one night on the boat . It’s what we did! You don’t want to feel rushed with this amazing bucket list experience.

As the junker sails around Halong Bay (our cruise went around Bai Tu Long area) sit on a lawn chair on the deck of the junker and watch hundreds of limestone karst of different sizes pass by. It’s a peaceful experience and a much-needed rest as you’ve traveled through Vietnam already. 

Since we participated in a 2 day/1 night tour, there is a kayak/swimming opportunity in the afternoon. While it’s only an hour, it’s a fun way to get some exercise after sitting on the junker. Also could do a short hike through the Thien Canh Son Cave. On the second day, you’ll sit in a sampan and pass through the Vung Vieng fishing village, fishing farm, and pearl farm. 

Taking a cruise isn’t cheap, especially if taking a luxury cruise . Expect to pay around $200 USD per person for a 2-day excursion. Yet it’s worth the splurge as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Plus, the fresh seafood caught daily is delicious. 

If you have the time and want to experience a less touristy area of Halong Bay , head to Cat Ba Island. 

Halong Bay is a top destination to visit in Vietnam. Photo credit: SimonDannhauer via Depositphotos.com

Hue is the ideal city to visit in Vietnam if you’re a history buff . While we only had one day to spend in Hue, it’s an opportunity to explore the UNESCO-recognized Imperial City and wander through the various palaces and pagodas. You’ll need a few hours up to half a day to explore a lot of the Imperial City. Thien Mu Pagoda and Khai Dinh Tomb are two additional places to not miss in Hue.  

A unique place to visit is the Thuy Tien Lake Abandoned Water Park . While it’s technically not allowed to enter, you can pay a small fee to the guard to enter. You’ll get some incredible (maybe eerie?) photos here.

Hue has some incredible street food. Don’t miss trying steamed rice cakes ( bánh bèo ) and beef noodle soup ( bún bò Huế ) as they originated from this area. 

We can’t wait to return for a longer trip to Hue and explore other areas of the Thua Thien Hue Province. 

Hue is the perfect city to visit to learn about Vietnam’s history. Photo credit: efired via Depositphotos.com

Danang ( Đà Nẵng ) is one of the top places to visit in Vietnam for a blend of coastal beach life and city life . It’s considered the fifth largest city in Vietnam, so you’ll have tons of things to do here. 

Hanging out on the My Khe beach is a good place to relax. A more adventurous activity is walking up the stairs to reach the Marble Mountains in southern Danang. There are also lots of pagodas and good street food to try. 

If you’re a fan of theme parks , add the Sun World Ba Na Hills to the list so you can see the iconic Golden Bridge of two giant hands holding up the walkway. Check out our experience visiting Ba Na Hills here. 

Another recommended theme park is Sun World Danang Wonders which is a mini Disney World Epcot with the theme of international countries. You’ll see the giant Ferris wheel when you’re in the center of the city. There are also more thrill rides here versus at Ba Na Hills. Read our Sun World Danang Wonders travel guide here. 

Danang is a central hub to visit other areas in Central Vietnam such as Hue and Hoi An. One of the coolest things to do is to ride a motorbike along the Hai Van Pass . It’s a bucket list adventure to ride through the windy roads from Danang or Hoi An to Hue. If you can’t drive a motorbike, it’s not a problem as you can join a motorbike tour or car tour to experience this.

Check out our 3 days in Danang itinerary for ideas on what to do. 

Danang is a top city to visit during your Vietnam travels. Photo credit: richie0703 via Depositphotos.com

Located in Quang Nam Province and near Danang, Hoi An ( Hội An) is a swoonworthy and beautiful destination to visit in Vietnam. The picturesque yellow buildings, colorful lanterns, and cobblestone roads attract many visitors. We can see why it received the UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition due to its preservation of the Ancient Town, a former port area. 

Walking through the Ancient Town is the highlight of visiting Hoi An . Due to Hoi An’s former trading area, there are lots of influences in the building facades from Chinese, Japanese, and European countries. If you love architecture, then this is a place to visit!

Also, cars and motorbikes are not allowed in Ancient Town, so you won’t get disturbed when browsing boutique shops with handicrafts and souvenirs. The only thing to watch out for is the cyclos (part bicycle-part carriage) passing by on the narrow roads. 

Hoi An is the place to get tailored clothes and shoes done . Whether you need a business suit, dress, shirts, or shoes done to your style, spend a few days here to get customized clothes. 

At night, the streets illuminate with multi-colored silk lanterns around the walking area . You’ll get the popular night shot of the lanterns here. You can ride a boat along the Thu Bon River and release a candle lantern in the waters for good luck. (Although, we would advise that since it litters the riverside.)

There are also a few night markets that sell touristy souvenirs such as dresses, Hawaiian shirts, hats. Since the same printed materials are used, your family can be stylish and have a matching set. 

If you’re short on time, you can visit Hoi An as a day trip from Danang. It’s a short 30-40 minute car ride away. 

Hoi An Ancient Town is a popular spot to visit in Vietnam. Photo credit: efired via Depositphotos.com

6. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City ( Hồ Chí Minh and referred to as Saigon and HCMC) is the vibrant, super busy city in South Vietnam that never sleeps. With a population of 9 million people, it’s a BIG city. Many tourists tend to overlook Ho Chi Minh City in their itineraries, yet, there are so many fun touristy attractions and nighttime activities to experience.

If HCMC is your first visit to Southeast Asia, you’ll experience memorable “firsts” – crossing the street with oncoming vehicles coming towards you, seeing motorbikes and cars navigating the roads without traffic lights, sharing the sidewalks with motorbikes, and much more. It’s a bit chaotic yet we love it which is why we’ve stayed in HCMC for over 3 years!

Ho Chi Minh has some of the prettiest buildings with French-influenced architecture . Check out the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral (still in restoration), Opera House, Tan Dan Church (a pink church), and City Hall (the building behind Uncle Ho Statue on Nguyen Hue Walking Street.) 

Other iconic landmarks include the Independence Palace, War Remnant Museum, Cafe Apartment, Saigon Skydeck , and Landmark 81, the tallest building in HCMC with 81 floors.  

Foodies will love the food options in HCMC . You can get any type of Vietnamese cuisine and street food at local restaurants or sidewalk kiosks. They’re plentiful and available at any time of the day, even at 3:00am if you have the munchies. If you miss eating Western food or international cuisines, HCMC has delicious options to try. Check out our food posts with recommendations: Burgers , Desserts , Pizzas , Japanese food , and Vegetarian/Vegan Options . 

Depending on how much time you have here, check out our recommendations on how to spend one day , 3 days , and 5+ days in HCMC . 

Related: What to do in HCMC during the rainy season 

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

Ben Tre ( Bến Tre ) is one of the best day trips to take from Ho Chi Minh City . Located along the Mekong Delta, this capital city of Ben Tre Province is known for growing the most delicious coconuts in the country . 

If you see signs for dừa xiêm anywhere, these are the small, young coconut with the sweetest coconut water. You must try them, especially on a hot, humid day. 

Many tourists head to Ben Tre for a day tour as it’s the closest city to Ho Chi Minh City to explore the Mekong Delta. 

A typical one day Mekong Delta tour consists of visiting a coconut candy factory (definitely buy the coconut candy as souvenirs), tasting fresh honey and honey tea from a local honey farm, riding a sampan along the Mekong River, catching snakeheads, freshwater fish, in the muddy waters for lunch, learning about the Coconut Monk, listen to traditional music, and much more. 

It’s touristy, yet it’s a fun introduction to the Mekong Delta and to see endless coconut trees in the area.

Ben Tre is a special place to visit to experience life along the Mekong Delta.

Beautiful Places in Vietnam

Sapa ( Sa Pa ) is one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam! It’s the perfect destination if you want a mix of breathtaking landscapes, relaxing, and trekking through the ethnic villages . 

Located in Lao Cai Province, many locals and tourists flock to Sapa from Hanoi to witness the golden rice terraces and harvest during the late August/September time frame. Yet, it’s still a gorgeous place to visit and see the green rice terraces during the other months of the year. 

Hiking Sapa is one of the highlights of the area. Adventure travels will love to spend at least 2-3 days trekking through the rice fields, pass through ethnic villages, and enjoy the scenery. We recommend exploring Lao Chai and Ta Van Valley , although Cat Cat Village is also a popular trail to visit. 

You get the chance to stay overnight at homestays , meet and interact with the owners and family of the homestays, and enjoy a home-cooked meal with them. It’s a meaningful experience to interact with the locals. 

Read our blog on trekking tips for Sapa so you can be fully prepared. 

An ambitious and challenging hike to conquer is Fansipan Mountain . It’s the highest peak in Vietnam at 3,143 meters (10,312 feet). Allocate 1-2 days to reach Fansipan’s summit (or take the cable car up).  Check out our experience on how to hike Fansipan in 1 day here.

Otherwise, plenty of breathtaking ecolodges overlook the rice terraces and is perfect for relaxing for a few days. 

Read our post on how to spend 3 days in Sapa , including restaurant picks and where to stay.

Sapa’s mountains and rice terraces are gorgeous to see in person.

9. Ninh Binh 

Ninh Binh ( Ninh Bình ) is a popular place to visit in Vietnam. It’s referred to as “ Halong Bay on land ” due to the beautiful limestone karsts in the Trang An Grottoes area and the jaw-dropping rice fields and landscapes. You may also recognize Ninh Binh as one of the main filming locations for the Hollywood movie, “ Kong .”

The top things to do in Ninh Binh include riding a sampan along the Trang An area and watching the landscape pass by and wandering through the numerous temples such as the photogenic Hang Mua temple and Bich Dong Pagoda. This area is also perfect to spend the day cycling through the rice fields and seeing a calmer lifestyle.  

We visited Ninh Binh Province on our first trip to Vietnam. Although it was a quick day trip from Hanoi, we would love to return to spend a few more days here. 

Ninh Binh is a memorable destination to visit in Vietnam since it’s so pretty here. Photo credit: Jessica May via Scopio Photos

10. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Want to visit the “Adventure Capital of Asia”? Head to Phong Nha, home of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, and located in Quang Binh Province. It’s a beautiful area with the Son River flowing through the town and the tall limestone mountains in the backdrop. 

The must-thing to do in Phong Nha is to wander through caves and see stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over many years. There are over 500 caves to explore in the national park ! The most popular ones are Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave which are more accessible. 

The adventure travelers will love going on multi-day caving and trekking tours to explore hidden caves . Oxalis Adventure and Jungle Boss are two companies that offer tours. 

We personally loved going on Oxalis’s Hang En Cave 2-day trek and staying overnight in the world’s third-largest cave. It’s a memorable experience trekking through the jungle and scrambling through the dark cave areas. 

A bucket list trek is hiking to Son Doong , the world’s largest cave to see the natural ecosystem and unique views. You’ll need to save up some money since this trek is $3,000 USD per person. 

Other fun adventures that do not include caves are hiking through the Botanic Garden to see a waterfall, taking a motorbike or bicycle to see the rural areas of Bong Lai Valley , and kayaking. 

Otherwise, you’re more than welcome to relax on a hammock next to the river and lounge around for the day.

Read this Phong Nha itinerary on how to spend 2-4 days here. 

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is a gorgeous place to visit during your Vietnam trip.

Dalat ( Đà Lạt ) is such a refreshing area to add to your Vietnam itinerary . It’s one of our favorite places in Vietnam to spend a weekend. Due to the location in the Central Highlands mountain range, it’s much cooler than the rest of South Vietnam. You will need to bring a jacket and wear long pants. The chances of rain are also higher here. 

Dalat is known for its fresh produce and fruits . You can visit a farm to pick fresh fruits or head to the main Night Market area to buy the produce. We’ve visited a few times and there are a few staple items of artichokes, strawberries, and avocados. As a heads up, do not touch the produce unless you plan to buy them. Otherwise, the seller will yell at you.

The main Dalat City has tons of things to do such as visit Botanical Gardens, go coffee shop hopping, see some French-inspired architectural buildings, and visit the whimsical Crazy House. If you need snacks to bring back home, stop by Langfarm which has tea, dried fruits, candies made with fruit juice, and more. 

Some day trips from Dalat include visiting the pretty waterfalls , such as Pongour, Elephant, Dantala, Tam Tham , and Prenn, and hiking to the peak of Langbiang at 2,167 Meters (7,109 feet). When you leave the main area, you can see how pretty and green the entire area is. 

Read how to spend 3 days in Dalat here.  

Dalat is one of the coolest places to visit in Vietnam to see agriculture and nature.

12. Bao Loc

Most tourists haven’t heard of Bao Loc ( Bảo Lộc or B’Lao ), yet it’s a fun place to visit if you’re a tea lover . Located in Lam Dong Province of the Central Highlands, it’s a good stopping point either before or after visiting the neighboring Dalat City. 

Bao Loc’s green mountains are covered in luscious tea plantations. It’s gorgeous to see in person. The popular store selling tea is Tam Chau where you can try tea and also buy some as souvenirs. The store sells oolong, green, jasmine, and artichoke tea in loose-leaf or tea bags. 

The local tourist attraction is visiting the towering Dambri Waterfall at the Dambri Tourist Area. It also has a neighboring Dasara Waterfall. This is a family-friendly place as there is a swimming pool, Ferris Wheel, and children’s rides available. You can spend the entire day here in this tourist area. 

Another fun place to visit is the Linh Quy Phap An Pagoda to see the sunrise. Since you’re up on the mountain, you can see the sun peek through the clouds. 

Check out the must-do things to do in Bao Loc here. 

Dambri Waterfall is a fantastic spot to see a beautiful waterfall in Bao Loc, Vietnam.

13. Con Dao Islands

Con Dao Islands ( Côn Đảo ) is our little secret of a dreamy destination to visit in Vietnam . Con Dao is made up of an archipelago of 16 islands, while Con Son Island is the largest and habitable one. 

Con Son has some of the cleanest beaches that we’ve seen in Vietnam . We can’t stop raving about the white sand, turquoise water, and trash-free beaches. The must-visit beaches include Nhat Beach or Dam Trau Beach and see the airplanes fly by. 

Some of the other best things to do in Con Dao Islands include visiting the Con Dao prisons and seeing the tiger cages in person, exploring the Con Dao National Park, snorkeling at nearby islands, and relaxing. We can’t stress enough how you must swim in the turquoise waters since it’s the bluest water that we’ve seen in the country!

While there are small, local guesthouses to stay at, splurge at the Six Senses and enjoy the isolated area and private beaches. 

Con Dao Islands is a beautiful spot to visit in Vietnam as the beaches and waters are clean!

14. Ly Son Island

Love eating garlic? Head to Ly Son Island ( Đảo Lý Sơn ) in Quang Ngai Province. This is a small, unique island to visit in Vietnam as it’s well-known for growing the small pearl-shaped garlic and shallots . Since the island is an inactive volcano, the nutrients from the lava and sand provide a gentle flavor to the garlic. 

There are only a handful of noteworthy attractions to visit on Ly Son Island, such as hiking Gieng Tien and seeing a natural arch at To Vo Gate. If you want to hang out at the beach, take a boat ride to the neighboring island, An Binh. The waves are not as rough here yet the waters are so clean and blue!

You have to try the fresh seafood here . It’s one of the memorable places that we’ve eaten for fresh seafood. Choose your seafood and shellfish and have it cooked any way you’d like. Also, don’t forget to eat any dishes with garlic! 

Ly Son doesn’t have a tourism boom yet and it’s a bit challenging to get here. It’s worth the effort to get here to enjoy the untapped area and quietness of this island. 

Read our Ly Son Island travel guide here. 

15. quy nhon.

Quy Nhon ( Quy Nhơn or Qui Nhơn) is one of the most underrated cities to visit in Vietnam . It’s a small, coastal town in Binh Dinh Province with plenty of attractions to keep you busy for a few days. 

Head to the beaches and go snorkeling at Ky Co Beach and visit the historical Cham Towers . The Cham Towers incorporate the Hindu culture from the Cham people and are scattered around Vietnam. The architecture is similar to what you see at Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia . Plus, visiting Eo Gio to see some of the bluest waters in Vietnam is another must-see attraction. 

The tourism infrastructure is still in its infancy so you can enjoy the relaxed vibe here. Plus, there aren’t too many resorts in Quy Nhon yet!

It is hot here, so get up early to join the locals and exercise on the beach or swim in the ocean. The afternoon is best to relax in the air-conditioning cafes and coffee shops.

Check out the top things to do in Quy Nhon here. 

Eo Gio is one of the beautiful and unique spots to check out in Quy Nhon.

16. Bidoup Nui Ba National Park

Bidoup Nui Ba National Park ( Vườn quốc gia Bidoup Núi Bà) is not on a typical itinerary, yet it’s a memorable spot to go on a multi-day trek through the forest . Located in the Lam Dong Province, you can combine this visit with Dalat as they’re nearby. 

On your 2 day/1 night trekking tour of Bidoup Nui Ba National Park, you get the chance to travel along the two highest peaks along Langbiang mountain range. The summit is at 2,287 meters (7,503 feet). 

It’s quite an adventure to hike up the mountain as the plant foliage isn’t maintained and is super tall. Plus, there are some steep areas so be careful when hiking. You’ll also need to watch out for leeches as they’ll crawl up the hiking shoes and legs. 

Once you reach the campsite, the tents will be set up and then you can relax and enjoy the BBQ dinner. 

Read our intense trekking experience at Bidoup Nui Ba National Park here. 

17. nha trang.

Nha Trang, located in Khanh Hoa Province, is a quick getaway from Ho Chi Minh City for some sunshine and beach life . 

Lounging on the beaches is a must-do when visiting Nha Trang. Nha Trang Beach is the most visited and crowded since it’s easy to access from most guesthouses and resorts. Plus, it stretches over 6 kilometers (3.7 miles). 

Nha Trang is famous for the mud baths and mineral spas so you must try one when you’re here. We loved visiting I-Resort and getting pampered for half a day. The mud bath is relaxing and feels silky smooth. 

Other day trips from Nha Trang City that you can take are visiting VinWonders Nha Trang theme park (also referred to as Vinpearl Nha Trang) or lounge at Hon Tam Island and do water sports. 

Check out what to do in Nha Trang in 3 days here. 

Related: taking the overnight train from ho chi minh city to nha trang  .

Nha Trang has good weather to spend on the beach and outdoors.

Mui Ne ( Mũi Né ) is a small coastal area in the Phan Thiet City of Binh Thuan Province. We say that it’s the younger sister of Nha Trang since there are lots of beaches, sand, and plenty of relaxation opportunities here. We’ve been here with friends and family and love spending a few days in this area. 

The famous attractions in Mui Ne are the sand dunes . There are the red and white sand dunes and you can either visit them by motorbike or on a Jeep Tour for a sunrise or sunset view. You can rent a metal sheet to slide down the dunes. We recommend the Jeep Tour since you can also stop by the fishing village and walk through a small stream (Fairy Stream). 

Kitesurfing is the main outdoor water sport here. You can take lessons and practice your kitesurfing skills. 

Check out other fun things to do in Mui Ne here. 

If you have an extra day, consider taking a motorbike or a taxi to visit the longest reclining Buddha in Southeast Asia at Ta Cu Mountain . This place is located an hour away from Mui Ne. You can either take the cable car or hike the mountain. Check out how to hike Ta Cu Mountain here. 

19. Cat Tien National Park

If you’re itching for some nature, head to Cat Tien National Park ( Vườn Quốc Gia Cát Tiên) in the Dong Nai Province. This national park is a decent size at over 70,000 hectares. 

It’s recommended to spend a few days here to enjoy the wildlife on the night safari or sunrise trek to see wild gibbons, nature walks through the forest, and visit ethnic villages. You can also take a boat ride along the Dong Nai River and may see monkeys along the river. All tours are organized through the National Park, so ask your accommodation to help arrange a spot. 

The entire area is quiet and it isn’t crowded with tourists, so you can have the park to yourself!

Check out the other things to do in Cat Tien National Park here. 

Cat Tien National Park is an ideal place to visit in Vietnam for outdoor adventures and nature walks.

20. Ma Da – Tri An 

Ma Da – Tri An ( Mã Đà -Trị An) is not on a typical Vietnam itinerary as this attraction is catered to local Vietnamese tourists. Located in Dong Nai Province, this place is perfect for those who want to spend the day outdoors. 

Wandering through the Ma Da Forest is the main highlight since it’s so quiet and beautiful here. You can either run, walk, or cycle through the red clay-colored dirt path. Heads up, the dirt does stain light-colored clothes and shoes. 

Afterward, go stand up paddleboarding (SUP) in the manmade Tri An Lake and cool off from your earlier walk. 

You’ll need to join a local tour group as the infrastructure for foreign tourism is not developed yet. This would be a fun day trip from Ho Chi Minh City if you’re staying in the area long-term and can meet new people. 

Check out our Ma Da Tri An visitor guide here. 

21. an giang .

An Giang Province is an undiscovered area along the Mekong Delta . This area is at the Cambodia-Vietnam border so you can use it as a border crossing (if permitted). Otherwise, this area doesn’t receive many foreign tourists as it’s far from Ho Chi Minh City (it’ll take 5+ hours by bus one-way). 

The two main cities are – Chau Doc and Long Xuyen. Most of the attractions are nearby the Chau Doc area. 

The top things to do in An Giang Province is to visit the Tra Su Cajuput Forest and take a sampan through the mangrove forest and visit Cam Mountain tourist attraction. There is also a floating market, an area to explore the Cham Village since many of the ethnic Cham people live here, and Masjid Jamiul Azhar Mosque. 

This is one area that we would love to return and explore further. 

Read our An Giang visitor guide on how to spend 1 day here. 

Tra Su Cajuput Forest is a gorgeous place to visit in An Giang!

22. Binh Phuoc

Binh Phuoc Province ( Bình Phước ) is an untapped area of Vietnam that most people haven’t heard about. This area borders Cambodia and is north of Ho Chi Minh City. 

It’s known for growing the best cashews around the country . These cashews are plump and large and often have roasted skin outside which is edible. You’ll see cashew trees everywhere even on the side of the road. It’s cool to see the colorful cashew fruit and nut growing from the bottom of the fruit. 

Tip : Do not eat the raw nut from the fruit as there is a toxic oil called urushiol and you’ll get intense rashes and blisters. 

If you’re in the area, consider hiking up Ba Ra Mountain (White Virgin Mountain) as it’s the third highest peak in South Vietnam at 736 meters (2,415 feet). (The second highest is Chua Chan Mountain in Dong Nai Province.) Currently, the hike isn’t open to the public and you’ll need to make arrangements in advance to visit the summit. The hike is a steep walkway up the mountain to reach the pagoda. You’ll feel the burn in your legs! 

Check out our Ba Ra Mountain hiking guide here. 

23. cu chi  tunnels.

Technically, Cu Chi is part of Ho Chi Minh City, but on the northern side. Located over 2 hours away from the city center and in the countryside, it’s a popular and unique place to visit in Vietnam to see the underground network of tunnels at Cu Chi Tunnels. 

During the Vietnam War, the Vietnamese soldiers (Viet Cong) lived underground in over 250 kilometers (155miles) of tunnels and used the tunnels for shelter, medical aids, and moving equipment around.

There are two tunnels – Ben Duoc and Ben Dinh, to visit depending on your preference. While you can’t visit the entire tunnel, about 121 kilometers (75 miles) have been preserved for tourists. We’ve visited the Ben Duoc as it contains portions of the original tunnels that the soldiers used. 

Cu Chi Tunnels is a popular day trip from Ho Chi Minh City and a recommended spot to experience the underground tunnels.

24. Tay Ninh

Does Tay Ninh Province deserve to be on this list? Yes, it does! 

If you have an extra day in Ho Chi Minh City and love hiking, take a trip to Tay Ninh. It’s located in the countryside and is home to Ba Den Mountain (Black Virgin Mountain), the highest peak in South Vietnam at 986 meters (3,235 feet). You’ll need up to a half-day to hike this mountain since it’s a strenuous hike up giant boulders. Prepare yourself with lots of water since it is HOT and humid on the trail. Another option is to take the cable car to the peak .

Once you reach the top, you can enjoy the Sun World Ba Den theme park with the colorful flower gardens and topiaries and take a photo with the triangle-shaped summit sign. 

Read more about this Ba Den Mountain day hike here. 

Tay Ninh also has the famous Cao Dao Temple , and you can see the Caodaism religion and the people worshipping. Inside the temple is a must-visit to see the colorful architecture and dragon sculptures. 

25. Vung Tau

Vung Tau ( Vũng Tàu ) is the capital of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province and is a coastal beach town. It’s only two hours away from Ho Chi Minh City which makes it a fantastic spot for a day trip or a weekend trip. 

The area is popular for eating fresh seafood and relaxing on the beaches. To be honest, the beaches are not the cleanest as garbage is in the sand. Yet, you can rent a hammock and relax for an afternoon. 

Vung Tau is surprisingly hilly as there are two mountains – Big Mountain and Small Mountain. Big Mountain has some incredible hiking which we recommend that you do if you know a local. Check out our Big Mountain hiking experience here . Small Mountain has a mini Christ of Jesus statue that you can see. 

Other awesome hikes to do in the area are Dinh Mountain and Minh Dam. Both of these hiking locations require transportation as they aren’t in Vung Tau city center. Check out our Dinh Mountain hiking guide or Minh Dam hiking guide here. 

Vung Tau is known for the beaches, coastline, and also has some amazing views!

26. Can Gio

If you have extra days in Ho Chi Minh City and want to visit a place with monkeys running around everywhere , head to Can Gio Mangrove Forest (also referred to as “Monkey Island.”) Can Gio ( Cần Giờ ) is one of the southern districts in Ho Chi Minh City. 

Spending a day in Can Gio is a fun day trip from HCMC. Explore the mangrove area, see hundreds of monkeys in the forest, and wander through a former base used during the Vietnam War in the forest area. 

Tip: Beware of any belongings such as sunglasses and hats sticking out from your purse or backpack. The monkeys will snatch anything within reach immediately and you won’t see your belongings ever again. 

After visiting this place, head to the coast to eat grilled seafood and shellfish on the black sand beach. 

Read our Can Gio Island travel guide here. 

27. tan lap floating village.

One of the unique attractions to visit in South Vietnam is Tan Lap Floating Village ( Làng Nổi Tân Lập ). It’s an eco-tourism site in Long An Province, one of the areas along the Mekong Delta. This place is surrounded by the cajuput forest and mangroves, so it’s a quiet and peaceful area to explore.

Spend the day walking along the paths through the cajuput forest and taking photos, ride a sampan boat for 30-minutes through the Melaleuca Forest, and check out the views from the Observatory Deck. During your visit, you may see gorgeous lotus flowers blooming in the waters. 

This is a nice getaway from Ho Chi Minh City and is recommended to visit if you have extra time. 

Check out our Tan Lap Floating Village visitor guide here. 

Tan Lap Floating Village is a unique spot to visit in Vietnam and walk through the Melaleuca Forest.

28. Can Tho 

Can Tho ( Cần Thơ ) is another favorite destination to visit in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta area. It’s the fourth-largest city in Vietnam yet the vibe is more relaxed and calm compared to Ho Chi Minh City. 

Can Tho is known for growing much of the rice along the Mekong Delta . Rice production contributes to about half of the country’s production. 

The main attraction is visiting the Cai Rang Floating Market early in the morning. You ride a sampan boat to the market and get the chance to see large boats overflowing with seasonal fruits (pineapples and watermelons) and vegetables (pumpkin). The seller must sell everything before heading back home. 

The main city area is walkable as there are many temples and pagodas to wander through. The evening has a night market that sells clothes and street food. Try the grilled Vietnamese rice paper ( bánh tráng nướng ) as it’s so delicious here. 

Check out our Can Tho travel guide for more details on what to do here. 

29. phu quoc island.

Want to get away from the craziness of Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi? Head to Phu Quoc Island ( Phú Quốc) ! Located south of the country and close to Cambodia, it’s a popular weekend destination to relax on the beach or hang out at a 5-star resort. Since the island has an international airport, there are plenty of visitors who visit this island for the much-needed sunshine. 

Since you’re on one of the best islands in Vietnam , there are plenty of things to do here. Choose from many of the beaches to relax on (we recommend Sao Beach), take a day trip snorkeling on the smaller islands, visit a pepper farm, learn how fish sauce is made, visit the night market, and more. Luckily, the island is large enough and spread out so it never feels too busy with tourists. 

A memorable meal to try is bún kèn , a hot noodle soup with ground fish, lemongrass, and papaya salad.   

Read how to spend 2 days on Phu Quoc Island here.  

Sao Beach is a recommended spot on Phu Quoc Island to relax.

Final Thoughts

How many of these 29 best places in Vietnam are now on your bucket list? 

Whether you’re into culture, architecture, history, landscape, or food, there is a place for you to visit in this country. We hope you get a chance to visit many of these amazing cities on a future trip to Vietnam. Even if it’s your second or fifth return trip to Vietnam, you’re bound to discover something new when revisiting sites. 

We’ll continue to explore Vietnam and will update this post on the cool places to visit!

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Featured photo credit & pin photo credit: HCThanh via Depositphotos.com

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

Hiking Minh Dam Mountain – An Easy Day Hike Near Vung Tau, Vietnam

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Gosh – this makes me realise that I need longer than the week I’d planned for my trip to Vietnam. Thanks for opening my eyes to so many wonderful destinations and experiences.

You’re welcome Megan!! I hope you get to visit Vietnam in the future. One week in Vietnam barely scratches the surfaces so two weeks would be better. Feel free to reach out at any time if you have any questions about the places you visit.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

17. Da Nang

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

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

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

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

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

16. Ha Giang Loop

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Bai Tu Long Bay

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

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

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

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

14. Tam Coc

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Phu Quoc

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

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

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

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

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

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

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

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

8. Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

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

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

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

7. Mekong Delta

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

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

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

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

6. Nha Trang

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

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

1. Ha Long Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

September 15, 2019 at 1:19 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Lagoons Pha Tam Giang, Đầm Vân Long.

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

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

Enjoy your traveling trip!

May 1, 2019 at 2:46 am

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

March 3, 2019 at 1:49 am

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

March 29, 2018 at 9:26 pm

The market in Can Cau is fabulous.

November 21, 2017 at 10:29 pm

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

November 8, 2017 at 8:19 am

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

September 19, 2017 at 4:52 pm

I really liked Da Nang.

November 23, 2016 at 4:13 am

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

July 21, 2015 at 2:04 pm

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

June 2, 2015 at 6:46 am

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

November 7, 2014 at 4:11 am

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

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• Customized Tour

Best places to visit in Vietnam

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

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

Table of Contents

Ha Noi City

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

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

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

Hanoi is the capital and cultural center of Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

apa is a picturesque town in the highlands of northern Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mekong Delta is a rich and colorful region in southern Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
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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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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

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10 Best Tourist Attractions In Vietnam You Have To See

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

The beauty of Hoi An Old Town is well renowned

1. Hoi An’s Ancient Town

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

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

The old kingdom in ruins

2. My Son Cham Towers

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

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

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

Palace in the noisy city center

3. HCMC’s Independence Palace & War Remnants Museum

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

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

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

An entrance to the tunnel

4. Cu Chi Tunnels

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

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

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

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

Vendors at work

5. Mekong Delta’s floating markets

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

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

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

A forbidden city of Nguyen Dynasty

6. Complex of Hué Monuments

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

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

Fish farms in Halong Bay

7. Halong & Lan Ha Bay

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

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

Spectacular site in Ninh Binh Province

8. Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex

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

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

Flower vendors are always present in the Old Quarter

9. Hanoi’s Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake

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

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

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

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

Hanoi is the best place to watch the performance

10. Vietnamese Water Puppets

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

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

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

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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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15 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Jul 20, 2021 • 12 min read

Ho Chi Minh City has a skyline of tall buildings perfect to get a birds-eye-view of the city © Ho Ngoc Binh / Getty Images

It would be easy to roar around Ho Chi Minh City like one of the local motorcyclists – stopping at every corner, but never really seeing much – but Vietnam's most populated city is worthy of some slow exploration. 

From world-class museums and Vietnam's tallest skyscrapers to fragrant, incense-filled temples and street food stalls that recall old Saigon, this former French colonial city is well worth at least three or four days of your time. These are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. War Remnants Museum

Best museum in Ho Chi Minh City

To understand the context of the war with the USA, and its devastating impact on Vietnamese civilians, this remarkable, deeply moving museum is an essential visit. Many atrocities documented here were well publicised, but rarely do Americans and Europeans hear the victims of military action tell their own stories. While some displays are one-sided, many of the most disturbing photographs illustrating atrocities are from US sources, including those from the My Lai massacre.

The museum primarily deals with the American War, but the French-colonial period and conflicts with China are also documented. US armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, bombs and infantry weapons are on display outside. One corner of the grounds is devoted to the notorious French and South Vietnamese prisons on Phu Quoc and Con Son islands. Artefacts include that most iconic of French appliances, the guillotine, and the notoriously inhumane ‘tiger cages’ used to house war prisoners. Allow at least a couple of hours for your visit.

2. Jade Emperor Pagoda 

Built in 1909 in honour of the supreme Taoist god (the Jade Emperor or King of Heaven, Ngoc Hoang), this is one of the most atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City, stuffed with statues of phantasmal divinities and grotesque heroes. The pungent smoke of incense ( huong ) fills the air, obscuring the exquisite woodcarvings. Its roof is encrusted with elaborate tile work, and the temple's statues, depicting characters from both Buddhist and Taoist lore, are made from reinforced papier mâché.

Inside, worshippers mass before the ineffable Jade Emperor, who presides – draped in luxurious robes and shrouded in a dense fug of incense smoke – over the main sanctuary. He is flanked by his guardians, the Four Big Diamonds (Tu Dai Kim Cuong), so named because they are said to be as hard as diamonds.

3. Eat street food in District 4

Best for foodies 

Just south of the glitzy Dong Khoi area, it's a short walk over the Ben Nghe Channel to working-class District 4. Here the ambience is far more Saigonese, with little or no concession to tourism, and narrow lanes, street markets and shabby concrete apartment blocks. Order a coffee here and expect a drip-fed Vietnamese coffee that resembles engine oil rather than a frothy cappuccino.

District 4 is the best area in the city to sample authentic street food, with dozens of places on Ɖ Vinh Khanh. For great seafood at affordable prices, try Oc Dao 2 . HCMC is a city in love with snails, and District 4 is something of a magnet for snail eaters, with many fine places on the buzzing alley Lo J KTT, including Oc Po , which is always packed.

4. Giac Lam Pagoda 

Believed to be the oldest temple in HCMC (1744), Giac Lam is a fantastically atmospheric place set in peaceful, garden-like grounds. The Chinese characters that constitute the temple's name (覚林寺) mean 'Feel the Woods Temple' and the looming Bodhi tree (a native fig tree, sacred to Buddhists) in the front garden was the gift of a Sri Lankan monk in 1953. Prayers are held daily from 4am to 5am, 11am to noon, 4pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm.

Next to the tree stands a gleaming white statue of compassionate Quan The Am Bo Tat (also known as the Goddess of Mercy) on a lotus blossom, a symbol of purity. As at many Vietnamese Buddhist temples, aspects of both Taoism and Confucianism can be found here. For the sick and elderly, the pagoda is a minor pilgrimage sight, as it contains a bronze bell that, when rung, is believed to answer the prayers posted by petitioners. About 3km from Cholon, Giac Lam Pagoda is best reached by taxi or xe om (motorbike taxi).

Read more:   Best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City

5. Check out the craft beer scene

Best bars in Ho Chi Minh City

Happening HCMC is concentrated around the Dong Khoi area, with everything from dives to designer bars open until 1am. Pham Ngu Lao stays open later, and PNL's Ð Bui Vien is a pedestrian-only street from 7pm to 2am on Saturdays and Sundays. Dance clubs usually kick off after 10pm. Amongst all the late night action is a blossoming craft beer scene, including the following bars.

Heart of Darkness

This premier craft brewery has an always-interesting selection of innovative beers on tap. The selection varies as the Heart of Darkness brewers are always trying something, but the Dream Alone pale ale and Sacred Fire golden ale are great drops.

With almost 40 taps, BiaCraft is an essential destination for thirsty souls. Complementing its own creations are ales and ciders from craft breweries in Saigon and Hanoi; it's possible to take out freshly sealed cans of all available beers. Combine a tasting paddle with probably the city's best bar food, with quirky offerings like drunken baby potatoes and Nashville hot quail.

Rogue Saigon

Live music and Vietnamese craft beers combine on Rogue's rooftop terrace in a gritty building on the riverside edge of District 1. You'll find good beers such as Lac Brewing's Devil's Lake IPA, and music with an acoustic, blues or rock vibe. There are DJ sessions on Saturday and also jams and quiz nights.

6. Architecture 

Ho Chi Minh City is littered with faded, century-old buildings from when it was still under French colonial rule. Scores of heritage buildings are scattered throughout the city, mainly in Districts 1 and 3. Here's some of the most historically intriguing. 

People’s Committee Building 

One of the city’s most prominent landmarks is home to the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. Built between 1901 and 1908, the former Hôtel de Ville decorates the northwestern end of ÐL Nguyen Hue, but unfortunately the ornate interior is not open to the public.

Central Post Office 

The city's landmark French-era post office is a period classic, designed by Marie-Alfred Foulhoux (though often credited to Gustave Eiffel) and built between 1886 and 1891. Painted on the walls of its grand concourse are fascinating historical maps of South Vietnam, Saigon and Cholon, while a mosaic of Ho Chi Minh takes pride of place at the end of its barrel-vaulted hall. Note the magnificent tiled floor of the interior and the copious green-painted wrought iron.

Municipal Theatre (Saigon Opera House)

Gracing the intersection of Ð Dong Khoi and ÐL Le Loi, this grand colonial edifice with a sweeping staircase was built in 1897 and is one of the city's most recognisable buildings. Officially known as the Municipal Theatre , the Opera House captures the flamboyance of France’s belle époque. Performances range from ballet and opera to modern dance and musicals.

7. Explore Dong Khoi Area

This well-heeled area, immediately west of the Saigon River, packages the heart of old Saigon into a swish enclave of designer shops and skyscrapers. Slicing from the river to august Notre Dame Cathedral via the Opera House (Municipal Theatre), ritzy Ð Dong Khoi is the main shopping strip and lends its name to the encircling civic centre and central business district. 

Yet it’s the wide, tree-lined boulevards of ÐL Le Loi and ÐL Nguyen Hue, perpetually swarming with motorbikes, that leave more of an impression – not least if you’ve survived crossing them on foot. It’s in these grand thoroughfares that French-colonial elegance and urban modernity fashion an alluring concoction.

Read more:   Top 20 free things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

8. Notre Dame Cathedral

Built between 1877 and 1883, Notre Dame Cathedral enlivens the heart of Ho Chi Minh City's government quarter, facing Ð Dong Khoi. A red-brick, neo-Romanesque church, it has twin bell towers that are both topped with spires and crosses that reach 60m. This Catholic cathedral, named after the Virgin Mary, includes some lovely stained-glass windows and interior walls inlaid with devotional tablets. Its red bricks were imported from Toulouse, France.

9. History Museum

Built in 1929, this notable Sino-French museum houses a rewarding collection of artefacts illustrating the evolution of the cultures of Vietnam, from the Bronze Age Dong Son civilisation (which emerged in 2000 BCE) and the Funan civilisation (1st to 6th centuries CE) to the Cham, Khmer and Vietnamese. Highlights include valuable relics taken from Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and a fine collection of Buddha statues. There's good English information.

There's also a perfectly preserved mummy of a local woman who died in 1869, excavated from Xom Cai in District 5; and some exquisite stylised mother-of-pearl Chinese characters inlaid into panels. It's located beside the Botanical Gardens.

10. Botanical Gardens

One of the first projects undertaken by the French after establishing Cochin-China as a colony was founding these fantastic, lush gardens . Once one of the finest such gardens in Asia, they’re very agreeable for strolling beneath giant tropical trees. Skip the miserable zoo though.

11. Cholon (Chinatown)

Rummage through Cholon (District 5) and lift the lid on a treasure trove of historic temples and Chinese flavours. Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown is less Chinese than it once was, largely due to the 1978–79 anti-capitalist and anti-Chinese campaign, when many ethnic Chinese fled the country, taking with them their money and entrepreneurial skills. 

A lot of those refugees have since returned (with foreign passports) to explore investment possibilities. Full-form written Chinese characters (as opposed to the simplified system used in mainland China) decorate shopfronts and temples in abundance, adding to the sensation that you have strayed into a forgotten corner of China. 

Cholon means ‘big market’ and during the American War it was home to a thriving black market. Like much of HCMC, Cholon’s historic shopfronts are swiftly disappearing under advertising hoardings or succumbing to developers’ bulldozers, but some traditional architecture survives and an atmospheric strip of traditional herb shops thrives between Ð Luong Nhu Hoc and Ð Trieu Quang Phuc, providing both a visual and an olfactory reminder of the old Chinese city.

12. Fine Arts Museum

With its airy corridors and verandas, this elegant 1929 colonial-era, yellow-and-white building is stuffed with period details; it is exuberantly tiled throughout and home to some fine (albeit deteriorated) stained glass, as well as one of Saigon's oldest lifts. Hung from the walls is an impressive selection of art, including thoughtful pieces from the modern period. As well as contemporary art, much of it (unsurprisingly) inspired by war, the museum displays pieces dating back to the 4th century.

These include elegant Funan-era sculptures of Vishnu, the Buddha and other revered figures (carved in both wood and stone), and Cham art dating from the 7th century to the 14th century. More statuary is scattered around the grounds and in the central courtyard (accessed from the rear of the building). There’s a selection of lovely prints for sale (from 150,000d) at the shop. Building No 2 alongside hosts lesser-known works and stages exhibitions.

13. Reunification Palace

Surrounded by royal palm trees, the dissonant 1960s architecture of this landmark government building and the eerie ambience of its deserted halls make it an intriguing spectacle. The first Communist tanks to arrive in Saigon rumbled here on 30 April 1975 and it’s as if time has stood still since then. The building is deeply associated with the fall of the city in 1975, yet it's the kitsch detailing and period motifs that steal the show. It's also known as the Independence Palace.

The ground floor is arranged with meeting rooms, while upstairs is a grand set of reception rooms, used for welcoming foreign and national dignitaries. In the back of the structure are the president’s living quarters; check out the model boats, horse tails and severed elephants’ feet. Perhaps most fascinating of all is the basement with its telecommunications centre, war room and warren of tunnels, where hulking old fans chop the air and ancient radio transmitters sit impassively. Towards the end are rooms where videos appraise the palace and its history in Vietnamese, English, French, Chinese and Japanese. The national anthem is played at the end of the tape and you are expected to stand up – it would be rude not to.

14. Rooftop bars

Best thing to do at night

Enjoy Ho Chi Minh City’s frenetic energy from a barstool high above the chaos below. Saigon Saigon Bar in the historic Caravelle Hotel was a favourite hangout of wartime journalists who would report from the ninth storey vantage point, cold beer in hand. Today, that same beer with the same great views is available as The Caravelle Terrace Draft.

For cocktails that are equally artsy as alcoholic, Shri Restaurant & Lounge tops the list. Located 23 floors up, sip on innovative cocktails inspired by various neighbourhoods like the Ben Thanh featuring lychee and ginger found in the city’s best-known market or the Thao Cam Vien with notes of cucumber and elderflower, inspired by the botanical gardens.

15. Skyscraper observation towers

From the street level, Ho Chi Minh City seems incredibly chaotic, but there’s a quiet beauty to the city when experienced from above the fray. A number of skyscrapers have observation towers (or bars) which offer views of the city's tree-lined boulevards and the snaking Saigon River.

Bitexco Financial Tower

From the 68-storey  Bitexco Financial Tower  – or, indeed, its chic  EON Heli Bar  on the 52nd floor – visitors can sip on a coffee whilst watching the world go by.

Landmark 81

At 81 stories high, the Tetris -like Landmark 81 is Vietnam's tallest building. Its Blank Lounge, some 76 floors up, is where they share the views of the sprawling metropolis with the public. 

You may also like: Vietnam tips: a first-timer's guide Best places to eat in Ho Chi Minh City in 2020 Ho Chi Minh City’s best rooftop bars

This article was first published March 2020 and updated July 2021

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Passing Thru Travel

Exploring 10 Lesser-Known Spots in Thailand, Vietnam, and Beyond – Hidden Gems of Southeast Asia 2024

Posted: February 20, 2024 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

Southeast Asia, a region celebrated for its bustling cities, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-trodden paths of Bangkok’s grand palaces and Bali’s sun-kissed beaches lie lesser-known spots that offer an authentic and enriching experience. This guide uncovers ten hidden gems across Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond, promising unique adventures and memories that last a lifetime.

Koh Mak, Thailand

In Koh Mak, you’ll discover a tranquil haven distinct from the typical tourist destinations. As you explore this serene island in the Gulf of Thailand, the calmness of the environment becomes palpable. It’s a place where the beaches remain unspoiled, showcasing their natural beauty with crystal-clear waters inviting you for a swim or a snorkel.

The laid-back vibe of the island resonates through every corner, from the gentle sway of palm trees to the unhurried pace of life of the locals. You can unwind in true solitude, with the quiet hum of nature as your backdrop, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the island’s rubber plantations and coconut groves on a rented bicycle.

When To Travel: November to February, when the weather is dry and pleasant.

How To Get There: Take a boat from Trat, which is accessible by bus from Bangkok.

Mai Chau, Vietnam

Mai Chau is in the midst of a peaceful valley, a world away from the bustling city life. This area is famed for its stilt houses, an architectural style that speaks volumes about the local culture. As you wander through the village, you’ll notice the vibrant customs and traditions that are still very much a part of daily life here.

The rural charm of Vietnam comes alive in Mai Chau, offering you a chance to experience a different, more tranquil way of life. The simplicity and hospitality of the local people add to the authenticity of your experience, making your stay both enriching and memorable.

Insider’s Tip: Visit local villages to see traditional weaving and embroidery.

When To Travel: March to April or September to November for the best climate.

How To Get There: A scenic 3-hour drive from Hanoi.

Koh Bulon, Thailand

On Koh Bulon, a small island nestled in the Andaman Sea, you’ll find an ideal escape for a digital detox. Here, the absence of cars and the tranquility of its streets instantly sets a tone of peace and quiet. As you step onto the island, you’re greeted by a sense of calm permeating the air.

The simplicity of life without the usual bustle of traffic or the constant buzz of technology allows you to reconnect with nature and yourself. It’s a place where your days can be spent enjoying the serene environment, listening to the gentle waves, and embracing the slow pace of island life, making Koh Bulon the perfect setting for anyone looking to step away from the digital world and indulge in the tranquility of nature.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy snorkeling in the coral reefs surrounding the island.

When To Travel: November to April, avoiding the monsoon season.

How To Get There: Speedboat from Pak Bara Pier, reached by bus from Hat Yai.

Pu Luong, Vietnam

In Pu Luong, a nature reserve known for its spectacular landscapes, you’re treated to a feast of mountain vistas and terraced rice fields. This reserve stands out for its rich biodiversity, immersing you in an environment where nature’s beauty is on full display. As you trek through the reserve, the changing scenery — from lush greenery to traditional agricultural landscapes — provides a refreshing backdrop to your adventure.

The terraced fields, in particular, showcase an age-old farming practice that shapes the land into a stunning patchwork. This area is not just a treat for the eyes; it’s an opportunity to experience the tranquility of Vietnam’s rural heartland and to witness firsthand the harmony between humans and nature. Pu Luong’s natural beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a serene getaway.

Insider’s Tip: Trekking and homestays offer immersive experiences in local hill tribe cultures.

When To Travel: May to September for lush landscapes post-rainy season.

How To Get There: 4 hours by road from Hanoi.

Koh Kood, Thailand

You’ll encounter an unspoiled natural environment on Koh Kood, Thailand’s fourth-largest island. This island is renowned for its raw beauty, encompassing everything from majestic waterfalls to ancient rainforests and tranquil beaches. As you explore, the diverse landscape offers a variety of experiences.

You can trek through dense rainforests, feeling the ancient trees’ presence and the untouched nature’s richness, or relax on serene beaches, where the gentle lapping of waves against the shore provides a calming soundtrack to your relaxation. The island’s waterfalls, hidden among the foliage, offer a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Koh Kood is a destination where the simplicity and beauty of nature are at the forefront, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the more developed tourist areas.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Ao Salad fishing village for a glimpse into local life.

When To Travel: November to February for ideal beach weather.

How To Get There: Ferry from Trat, which is connected by bus to Bangkok.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

In Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” you’ll find yourself amidst a landscape of striking limestone karsts reminiscent of its famous maritime counterpart. As you travel through this region, the impressive formations rise dramatically from the earth, creating a unique and captivating scenery.

The area is not just about natural beauty; it’s also steeped in history, with ancient temples dotting the landscape, offering you a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural past. The serenity of the rivers flowing through Ninh Binh adds to the peaceful atmosphere, allowing for tranquil boat rides that weave through the karsts, giving you a close-up view of this geological wonder.

This combination of natural splendor and historical significance makes Ninh Binh a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty and a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture.

Insider’s Tip: Explore Trang An by boat to see its magnificent caves and temples.

When To Travel: March to May, when nature is at its most vibrant.

How To Get There: 2-hour train ride from Hanoi.

Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

Situated between the well-known destinations of Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi stands out as a peaceful haven with a distinctly rural charm. As you arrive on the island, you’ll be greeted by a tranquil atmosphere, starkly contrasting to the bustling tourist hotspots nearby. This island is ideal if you’re looking for a place to unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life.

The local community maintains a traditional way of living, providing a unique opportunity to experience authentic Thai culture. The scenic beauty of Koh Yao Noi, with its unspoiled beaches and lush greenery, adds to the island’s appeal, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. Whether you’re lounging by the sea, exploring the rural landscapes, or interacting with friendly locals, Koh Yao Noi offers a serene escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local seafood, freshly caught and deliciously prepared.

When To Travel: December to April for the best weather.

How To Get There: Ferry from Phuket or Krabi.

Ha Giang, Vietnam

In Ha Giang, a region known for its dramatic mountain passes and rich ethnic diversity, you’ll find an adventurer’s paradise and a cultural enthusiast’s dream. As you navigate the winding roads, each turn presents a new breathtaking view of steep hillsides and deep valleys, offering a thrilling experience for those who relish challenging drives or bike rides. This area is also a mosaic of diverse cultures, home to various ethnic groups with unique traditions and lifestyles.

Exploring Ha Giang, you can immerse yourself in these distinct cultures, gaining insights into the ways of life preserved for generations. Whether you’re trekking through remote villages, sampling local cuisines, or simply taking in stunning landscapes, Ha Giang offers a rich and authentic experience that connects you with nature and Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

Insider’s Tip: Take the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass for stunning panoramic views.

When To Travel: October to April for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

How To Get There: A 6-hour bus journey from Hanoi.

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Koh Lanta, a destination that strikes a perfect balance with its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and a laid-back atmosphere, is an ideal getaway for families and couples. As you explore the island, you’ll find picturesque and peaceful beaches, providing ample opportunities for relaxation or playful beach activities. The island’s interior, covered in dense forests, invites you to explore its natural beauty through hikes or guided tours, where the sounds of wildlife and the rustle of leaves create an immersive experience.

The laid-back vibe of Koh Lanta is one of its most appealing aspects, allowing you to enjoy a holiday at your own pace, whether that means lounging on the beach, enjoying local cuisine, or engaging in water sports. The welcoming and family-friendly environment of the island ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors of all ages, making it a delightful choice for a memorable vacation.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Lanta Animal Welfare center to learn about local wildlife conservation.

When To Travel: November to April, avoiding the rainy season.

How To Get There: Ferries from Krabi, Phuket, or Phi Phi Islands.

Con Dao Islands, Vietnam

In this archipelago, you’ll be introduced to a world of pristine beaches, a rich historical background, and abundant marine life, creating an ideal setting for eco-tourism. As you explore the islands, the untouched beaches offer a serene and natural beauty, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape or a chance to connect with nature.

The area’s history is palpable, with remnants of the past waiting to be discovered, offering you a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage. The marine life here is particularly vibrant. It provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling or diving, where you can witness a diverse range of sea creatures in their natural habitat.

This focus on preserving the natural and historical aspects makes this archipelago a prime destination for eco-tourists keen on experiencing the environment responsibly while enjoying the unique offerings of this remarkable destination.

Insider’s Tip: Dive or snorkel to explore the stunning coral reefs.

When To Travel: February to July for the best underwater visibility.

How To Get There: Take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City or a ferry from Vung Tau.

The Bottom Line

Each Southeast Asian destination has its unique charm, offering more than just beautiful scenery. They are gateways to understanding diverse cultures, histories, and the warmth of local hospitality. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or a leisure traveler, these hidden gems promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of Southeast Asia.

The post Exploring 10 Lesser-Known Spots in Thailand, Vietnam, and Beyond – Hidden Gems of Southeast Asia 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Preto Perola.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Travel website Lonely Planet describes a trip to Sun World Ba Na Hills as "touristy and cheesy" — but also says it's "irresistible."

If you don't recognize the name of Vietnam's popular — and a little unusual — tourist spot, you may have seen pictures of this hilltop resort online.

The Golden Bridge, which has helped bring tourists to the hills, looks great on Instagram, but even better in reality. It only opened in 2018, but it has quickly become known around the world.

It's 1,400 meters above sea level, and it looks like it's held up from below by two very big hands. On a good day, the views are beautiful. And if the weather's not so good, you'll feel as if you're walking through the clouds!

But there's more to see than just the bridge.

Some visitors say it feels a little like Disneyland — and it does have the sort of castle towers you might find at a Disney resort, as well as rides, performers and gardens.

But Ba Na Hills, found above the city of Da Nang , is a little different.

The French began building here more than 100 years ago when they controlled the country. And part of the resort has been built to look like an old French town — there's even old French music!

The only way to get up to the top is by the world's longest nonstop cable car, which is almost 6 kilometers long.

There, as well as the rides and the views, visitors will also find restaurants, cafes, hotels and probably a lot of other tourists — millions visit every year. But there are also Vietnamese spiritual sites and a wax museum!

Tickets cost about $36 for foreign tourists — but they're more than 30% cheaper for people from Vietnam.

旅行ウェブサイトの ロンリープラネット は、サンワールドバーナーヒルズへの旅行を「観光客向けでベタ」と表現しているが、同時に「とても魅力的だ」とも言う。

ベトナムの人気の、そして少し変わったこの観光スポットの名前が分からなくても、この丘の上のリゾートの写真をインターネット上で見たことがあるかもしれない。

この丘に観光客を呼び込むのに役立っているゴールデンブリッジは、インスタグラムで素敵に見えるが、実際のものはさらに良い。 2018年にオープンしたばかりだが、すぐに世界中で知られるようになった。

海抜1400メートルであり、2つの大きな手で下から支えられているように見える。 天気の良い日は景色が美しい。 そして天気がそんなに良くなければ、雲の中を歩いているような気分になる。

しかし、橋以外にも見るところはたくさんある。

ディズニーランドに少し似ていると言う訪問者もおり、実際、ディズニーリゾートにあるような城の塔だけでなく、乗り物、パフォーマー、そして庭園もある。

しかし、ダナン市の上にあるバーナーヒルズは少し異なる。

フランス人が、この国を支配していた100年以上前にここを建て始めた。 リゾートの一部は古いフランスの街のように建てられており、古いフランスの音楽さえある。

頂上まで行く唯一の方法は、長さが6キロメートル近い、世界最長のノンストップのケーブルカーだ。

そこで訪問者は、乗り物や景色だけでなく、レストラン、カフェ、ホテル、そして毎年何百万人と訪れている他の大勢の観光客を見つけるだろう。 しかし、そこにはベトナムのパワースポットや蝋人形館もある。

外国人観光客のチケットは約36ドルほどかかるが、ベトナム人は30パーセント以上安い。

Henry Milwardによる記事。

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