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The Top 10 Reasons to Visit Vietnam

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Given its bloody 20th century history, it's easy to forget that Vietnam has a history as a nation going back over a thousand years, with centuries of self-governance, culture, and civilization that rival anything the rest of the world has to offer.

Vietnam is full of ancient buildings, awesome food, and beer traditions, and natural wonders that the 20th century's wars couldn't erase. In this list, we'll enumerate 10 reasons why Vietnam is worth a visit.

The Architecture & Archaeology

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Vietnam's location at the crossroads of multiple civilizations has left its mark on the land.

The Dai Viet civilization ruled the north and later became dominant throughout the country — the remnants of their Chinese-influenced culture can be seen in historic buildings like the Temple of Literature, an ancient university that educated Vietnam's elite centuries ago.

The Cham people lived south of Dai Viet territory, carving out an empire that corresponds to today's central Vietnam and parts of south Vietnam. Unlike the Buddhist Dai Viet, the Cham were Hindu (many later converted to Islam), with a culture that put them at odds with their northern neighbors.

The Cham kingdom was eventually lost to Dai Viet invasion — their descendants live on in Cambodia and Malaysia, and their culture can still be seen in sites like the Champa My Son Temple Complex near Hoi An .

The Local Culture

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The Vietnamese nation has been around for over a thousand years, and doesn't look as if it will be going away anytime soon.

The passing centuries have left Vietnam with a rich culture that manifests in many interesting ways. Architecture? Hanoi delivers with the temple in Hoan Kiem Lake ; Hoi An responds with its Japanese Bridge and the venerable Tan Ky House. Entertainment? Catch a performance of Vietnamese Water Puppets . Fine art? Visit Kim Bong Village and take home an intricate carving or two.

To see Vietnam's culture in action city-wide, visit during one of Vietnam Festivals ; the fun of local celebrations during Tet (the New Year) will make the horrible traffic worth it!

The Vietnamese are obsessive foodies to the point of conflict; a local from Saigon will disagree vehemently with a Hanoi resident on the proper way to prepare the noodle dish pho . It's hard to pin down what exactly makes Vietnamese food great, but the influences from China and France come through in foods like cao lau noodles and banh mi .

Beer is another major Vietnamese preoccupation — every major city seems to have its own brand of beer, from Hue 's Huda to Saigon and Hanoi's eponymous brews. (Find out more about the best beers in Southeast Asia .)

The Vietnam War History

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When most Americans think of Vietnam, they think of the tragically bloody Vietnam War. Vietnamese, on the other hand, see the Vietnam War a part of a successful process of decolonization: the defeat of the French and retreat of the Americans is as much part of their national creation myth as the American Revolution is part of America's.

Many Vietnam War sites in the country reflect this view. Historic war sites in Saigon have been turned into memorials or museums depicting the inevitable triumph of the Vietnamese nation — the Cu Chi Tunnels depict the covert struggle of the Communist guerrillas against the invading American forces, the War Remnants Museum focuses on the savagery of the war effort, and the Reunification Palace marks the site where the South Vietnamese government finally submitted to Communist forces.

Further north in Hanoi , Ba Dinh Square has become ground zero for the deification of Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh — the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House on the grounds of the Presidential Palace all depict different pictures of the life of Vietnam's George Washington.

A former French prison in the middle of town has been converted into a museum honoring the struggle of Vietnamese against colonialism — the Hoa Lo Prison (also known as the "Hanoi Hilton") depicts the horrors that Vietnamese prisoners had to undergo at the hands of their French jailers. A single room is dedicated to the American POWs who were confined here, but that picture is studiously airbrushed to present the Vietnamese in the most humane light possible.

All these sites are invaluable pilgrimage destinations for war history enthusiasts and Vietnam War veterans alike. The Vietnamese are gracious hosts — GIs visiting Vietnam War sites are treated with respect and kindness.

The Natural Beauty

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Vietnam's embarrassment of geological riches varies as you go from north to south. Up north, the karst (limestone) geology creates natural wonders like Ha Long Bay and Hanoi 's many lakes. In Central Vietnam, near the town of Mui Ne, sand dunes in red and white hues attract curious travelers.

In the south, the Mekong Delta allows visitors to look at an ancient riverside lifestyle and a habitat that provides plenty of fodder for biologists — the Delta has yielded about 10,000 new species since scientists started to study the area.

The Adventure Activities

Whether your tastes run as tame as sledding down the Mui Ne sand dunes , or as extreme as riding through Vietnam on a Russian-made motorcycle, there's something in Vietnam that suits your appetite for adventure. Adventure activities around Ha Long Bay , among other things, include kayaking on the bay and climbing up the many natural karst walls in the area.

The Romance

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Vietnam can be very rewarding for lovers . Visit Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi , for instance, and you'll find plenty of locals going a-courting around the lake's edge. (Hoan Kiem is a favorite spot for Vietnamese getting their wedding photography done.)

Further north, the karst landscape of Ha Long Bay makes an excellent backdrop for couples going on a dragon boat cruise. And in Central Vietnam, the Hoi An Old Town truly comes into its own as a romantic destination during the full moon: electric lights give way to old-school lanterns, transforming the ancient trading town into a magical spectacle that seems made to be shared with a loved one.

The Low Cost

Mike Aquino

Thanks to its lower cost per experience, Vietnam has certainly earned a spot on backpackers' itineraries: you can spend eight days exploring Vietnam without breaking the bank.

Backpackers can economize throughout their trips by traveling overland by rail, by bus or by budget airline. They can also cut costs by selecting their hotel in Vietnam carefully — plenty of budget options exist in the country's top destinations.

Cheap travel through Vietnam has a downside: the tourism industry is rife with scam artists (read all about scams in Vietnam), so you really have to watch your step when making travel arrangements. (Read more: Dos and Don’ts of Hiring a Travel Agency in Hanoi, Vietnam .)

Here's a budget tip you can use: avoid traveling during Tet Celebrations in Vietnam , as everyone else in the country will be on the road, making cheap travel between points difficult and expensive.

The Easy Ground Transport

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If you're in no hurry, Vietnam's land transportation system is an excellent travel option — you don't get there as fast, but you enjoy the view and the relaxation you get from journeying at a more leisurely pace.

Vietnam Travel by Train, for instance, takes advantage of the "Reunification Express" that travels the whole length of the country; travelers departing from Hanoi can ride the first-class Livitrans train car overnight to the historic city of Hue .

The Location

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Vietnam's central location in Southeast Asia allows travelers to travel to neighboring countries in a blink; in Saigon , for instance, you can book tour packages that include overland travel to Siem Reap and the Angkor temples . The "Reunification Express" is connected to China's own rail system, so you can take the train from Hanoi to the Chinese city of Nanning. All told, travelers have multiple border crossings to choose from between Vietnam and China, Laos and Cambodia — making multi-country hops on a budget very feasible.

Air travelers benefit from the short distances between air hubs in Vietnam to the rest of the region — flyers traveling out of Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi have the entire region within reach, give or take a few hours' travel time.

But before you travel in, you've got to straighten out your visa situation – read about getting your Visa for Vietnam , or read about Southeast Asia visa requirements for US passport holders .

33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

From exploring the biggest caves in the world to relaxing on palm-fringed beaches or checking off a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, here’s our list of the absolute best things to do in Vietnam!

We’ve been lucky enough to spend more than a decade travelling the world almost non-stop. And a lot of people ask us, of everywhere we’ve been, which is our favourite country.

Without hesitation, we can honestly say Vietnam is.

This long nation in Southeast Asia is a wealth of culture, activities, good food and amazing people. No matter how much time you spend there you could never run out of great ways to enjoy Vietnam.

Don’t underestimate this place. We spent 7 months travelling this amazing country, getting as off the beaten path as possible, and we still didn’t manage to do everything here.

But don’t stress if you don’t have 7 months, because we’re going to help you narrow down just what you should do on your trip to visit Vietnam.

Check out our ultimate guide to travelling in Vietnam!

Table of Contents

1) Explore the World’s Biggest Caves in Phong Nha

2) check out vietnam on a motorbike, 3) learn about the local culture, 4) cruise the mekong delta, 5) sandboard down the sand dunes in mui ne, 6) walk the streets of hoi an ancient town, 7) go on a vespa tour, 8) relax on the stunning beaches, 9) explore the my son ruins, 10) cycle through the rice fields in mai chau, 11) go for a trek in sapa, 12) explore the dong van plateau in northern vietnam, 13) visit the sunday ethnic minorities market at bac ha, 14) learn about the war history in the dmz area, 15) visit a local produce market, 16) learn to cook vietnamese food, 17) go on a junk boat cruise in halong bay, 18) have coffee with a local, 19) go canyoning in dalat, 20) be adventurous with your food, 21) enjoy hanoi or ho chi minh city from a rooftop, 22) explore the marble mountains in da nang, 23) stay in a traditional homestay, 24) get lost in the imperial city in hue, 25) go trekking or biking in bach ma national park, 26) visit vietnam’s giant’s causeway at ganh da dia, 27) visit the cu chi tunnels outside of hcmc, 28) learn about the hill tribes in kon tum, 29) visit a pagoda, 30) take a boat ride down trang an in ninh binh, 31) climb the highest mountain in indochina in sapa, 32) go scuba diving in nha trang, 33) take a getaway to a tropical island, the best things to do in vietnam.

If you already have your travels here planned, or even if you’re just thinking about taking a trip and are curious what to see and do, then this list is for you.

From the famous Halong Bay, to the historic spots like the Cu Chi Tunnels, to the various Pagodas, beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and more, here are some of the best things to do in Vietnam.

Of everywhere we went in Vietnam (and we went to a lot of places), Phong Nha is by far the coolest and best destination in Vietnam for a number of reasons.

Other than being an absolutely beautiful place, an adventure hot-spot and filled with friendly locals, it also has some of the largest caves in the world.

These caves are a real natural wonder located inside the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, and they will blow your mind. They are so amazing it was easy to list the park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There is a cave experience for everyone’s budget. You can explore Hang Son Doong, the world’s biggest cave , on a 4-day expedition at $3000 per person.

Or camp the night in Hang En, the world’s third-biggest cave, at about $300 per person.

Still out of your price range? Don’t worry, there’s plenty of other great caves to check out in Phong Nha, such as Tu Lan Caves, Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, Hang Over and Dark Cave.

Visiting these caves can last anywhere from an hour day trip up to five days.

On the more adventurous ones, you can expect to cross rivers, hike through pristine jungle, be surrounded by limestone mountains and spend time in ethnic minority villages.

On the easier ones, you can tour the caves by boat or by following boardwalks. Don’t miss joining a guided tour of a few of the highlight caves.

The caves are an unmissable part of the Vietnam sightseeing experience.

Make sure you head down to Phong Nha on your trip and explore as many of the caves as possible! But if you can only pick one, be sure to visit Hang Son Doon as it is truly remarkable!

Check out our post about exploring the world’s biggest cave, Hang Son Doong!

Buy a bike, rent a bike or hire a driver. Either way, seeing part of Vietnam on a motorbike is the way to go.

There is something about having the wind in your face and taking travel slower than usual, and riding a motorbike is the best way to do it in this country.

It’s almost become a rite of passage for a lot of travellers, and you’ll find hundreds of people riding motorbikes the length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

But those in the know head up to Northern Vietnam to see the most striking scenery in the country.

Another popular trip is the Hai Van Pass between Hoi An and Hue, which will give you epic ocean views and a dose of war history too.

If you are not a confident rider head to the beautiful town of Dalat and sign up with a company called Easy Riders . They offer trips (from one day to one week) as a passenger on one of their large bikes with an experienced rider.

When you are booking in town just make sure it is a legit company, not a fake one, as there are plenty of them around Dalat.

Check them out on Get Your Guide to book the real version.

No trip to Vietnam would be complete without spending a decent amount of time learning about the local culture.

A fascinating mix of beliefs and customs has resulted in Vietnamese culture developing a fascinating mix of spiritual elements.

All it takes is spending a bit of time in the temples or with people in their homes to discover how beautiful it really is.

Do yourself a favour and spend some time immersing yourself into the local culture , and you will gain a much deeper understanding of the Vietnamese people.

The best way to do this is to do a homestay, visit different temples and try to head out to some ethnic minority villages. The north is particularly good for this.

Down in the south of Vietnam is the incredible Mekong Delta, which is one of the most fascinating and culturally remarkable places in the country.

This is where the mighty Mekong River finally spills into the ocean, and Vietnamese villagers have flocked to this delta to fish, trade produce and sell goods.

The best way to explore the Mekong Delta is to take a cruise or a boat ride and enjoy the river life. If you only have a few hours do a boat tour from Can Tho or Ben Tre.

If you have more time you can take a 4-8 day cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia along the Mekong Delta. Cruise the Mekong Delta the way you want to.

Get up early and don’t miss the floating markets. It is great to see all the hustle and bustle of life on the Mekong Delta.

There’s no need to travel to Namibia or Australia to try your hand at sandboarding – one of the best things to do in Vietnam is to try this fun activity in the south!

Just 20 minutes out of Mui Ne you will find the Red Sand Dunes. These are gorgeous and nice to see, but head out further to the White Sand Dunes for the real fun.

These dunes are more breathtaking, especially at sunset. You can hire a sandboard from one of the local vendors and have fun going down the semi-steep slopes or book a tour on Get Your Guide .

The ancient port town of Hoi An in Central Vietnam is one of the most beautiful spots in the country, and should not be missed on your list of what to do in Vietnam!

Yes Hoi An is a busy tourist town, but that is for good reason. Hoi An is a photographer’s dream, with a mix of eras and styles from the Japanese Covered Bridge to the colourful French colonial buildings to wooden Chinese shophouse to Vietnamese tube houses.

Hoi An is simply gorgeous! The Hoi An ancient city is one of the top attractions in Vietnam.

Get up early and explore the streets of the Hoi An ancient town when the locals are up and the tourists are still sleeping.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our blog post on all the great things to do in Hoi An.

As we’ve already mentioned, one of the most valuable ways to experience Vietnam is to learn about the culture. A great way to do this is to join a guided tour in some of the coolest places in the country.

There’s an amazing company called Vespa Adventures, and they run different Vespa tours in Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue and Ho Chi Minh City.

We did one of their tours in the ancient town of Hoi An, and it was such an amazing way to experience how locals live.

Hopping on the back of a Vespa scooter and riding along the banks of Thu Bon River stopping off at local villages we met local families, learnt about weaving, boat building and of course ate lots of local dishes.

We highly recommend this Vespa tour in Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City or anywhere else in the country. Check out our article on our experience .

Riding a Vespa is a fun and popular way to explore many of the Vietnam tourist attractions.

With Vietnam’s very long coastline, it’s no surprise that it has some beautiful beaches.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to relax and enjoy the white sands, crystal clear water and fresh seafood coming to you without having to get off your chair.

While Vietnam isn’t as famous for its beaches like other Southeast Asia countries (think Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia), there are still some epic spots.

Check out An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach which are both in Hoi An, or Doc Let Beach on the Hon Khoi Peninsula.

Some of the best places to visit in Southern Vietnam are the Con Dao Islands.

The My Son Hindu Sanctuary is a great example of the ancient Champa civilisation and is the longest inhabited archaeological site in Indochina.

While it’s not as large or as impressive as another UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, it’s still pretty epic, and should be added to your itinerary of places to visit in Vietnam.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located near the town of Hoi An. Unfortunately, it once was a lot larger than it stands today but during the Vietnam War some of the site was destroyed.

It is still definitely worth visiting and learning about this era. Visiting the Hindu-themed ruins you will be impressed by the beautiful stone sculptures, temples and tower ruins.

Do yourself a favor and book into a tour if you’d like to get the most out of your time there.

Want to read more about this interesting place? Check out our article on the My Son ruins .

Mai Chau is a gorgeous, bucolic village only a few hours from Hanoi.

If you’re looking for a wonderful and unique experience, don’t miss doing a homestay here and riding around the rice fields.

This is a beautiful way to see rural Vietnam and learn about farming and traditional-style textile manufacturing. This is a popular area for visitors, and once you get there you will see why.

You can stay in a traditional homestay or an eco-lodge and tour around the area. Trust us, you won’t get bored in Mai Chau.

Rent a bicycle and ride through the rice fields, trek up in the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, explore some caves, take a boat ride on Hoa Binh Lake and do some shopping for local textiles.

The best time to visit the area is from October to April as these months are the most pleasant. Check out our article if you would like to read more on Mai Chau .

If you want to go trekking in Vietnam, Sapa is one of the best places to visit.

With rolling rice terraces of the Muong Hoa Valley and mountains towering all around, you can spend weeks here hiking in the area.

There are treks to suit everyone’s time frame and fitness level. You can learn about the hill tribes in the area such as the Hmong, Tay and Dao tribes.

They will happily greet you when you hope off the bus, offering their services for trekking or a homestay. Stay a day to chill out in Sapa after your activities.

This place is gorgeous to relax and take in the mountain fresh area. Spoil yourself and get a hotel with a view of the mountains.

Check out our article if you would like to read more about trekking in Sapa .

This part of Vietnam really blew us away. Not many tourists get up here, and we have no idea why not.

It is some of the most beautiful landscapes we saw in all of Southeast Asia.

With rolling mountains to rice terraces to beautiful canyons, this place is different around every corner. Hire a motorbike and ride the area yourself or jump on a tour but this trip will be one you will not forget.

The Dong Van Karst Plateau is located high in the mountains in the very north of Vietnam, on the border of China. The area offers stunning narrow valleys with rocky mountain ranges.

In 2010, UNESCO recognised this area as a geological park. This area spreads out over 2,3000 square kilometres over the districts of Meo Vac, Dong Van, Yen Minh and Quan Ba.

It is believed that the rocks of Dong Van contain fossils from up to 600 million years ago. Because you are travelling near the Chinese border, you do need a permit which you can get from Ha Giang.

We recommend giving yourselves at least a week to properly explore the area.

This market isn’t just an ordinary Vietnamese market – The Bac Ha Market is the biggest ethnic market in Vietnam and takes place only on Sundays.

All the ethnic tribes such as Flower Hmong, Black Dzao, Nung, Phu la and Tay, come together to sell their goods.

The market is a living museum full of colours and beautiful smells. If you are interested in learning more about the tribe’s cultures, traditions and unique customs, we recommend hiring a guide to translate your questions.

Please be respectful and ask permission if you want a photo of a person, as some locals do not like it. They are not there for your entertainment, they are just going about their lives.

It’s really a spectacular place and can be done as a day trip from Sapa.

This one is for history lovers. The Vietnamese Demilitarised Zone was an area where a dividing line between North and South Vietnam was drawn as a result of the First Indochina War.

You can visit the DMZ Area include Ben Hai River, Hien Luong Bridge, Hamburger Hill, Khe Sanh Combat Base, Truong Son National Cemetery and learn about what happened in the area by visiting a small museum.

You will visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels and see how people lived underground during the war.

You will learn all about the Vietnam War that had a big significant impact in the area also.

You can get a tour out of Hue or Phong Nha, and you should as it’s one of the best attractions in Vietnam.

This is one of those things to do in Vietnam that you can tackle in just about every town, and is something that will probably become part of your daily routine anyway.

Vietnam has amazing local produce, and staring at the huge array of fruits and vegetables is sure to leave you not only feeling hungry but also curious about all the different kinds!

Visiting a local produce market is a great way to see how everyday life works in Vietnam. Go for a wander, check out all the different fruits, savouries and other creations, and chat away to the locals.

The best way to really explore a produce market is with a local guide . They will explain how the market is set up, they can translate for you if you have questions for the sellers and farmers and they can explain the weird and wacky foods.

Once you get your head around them, make sure you always have a pocketful of Dong with you whenever you’re out and about to stock up on fresh fruit for the day!

No matter how short your stay is, make sure to visit a local market – it’s a Vietnam must see!

Immersing yourself into the local food is a great way to learn more about a country, and luckily Vietnamese food is some of the best in the world!

There are cooking classes all over Vietnam , and each class will offer different dishes and experiences.

There is such diversity in the food from North to South, so you can literally do one in each major town and you’ll probably learn a new dish each time.

Some of the cooking classes will take you to the markets where you can buy the ingredients and cook it together. We love this type of class as you get to be part of every step of the process.

Coming home from your holiday and knowing how to cook some different dishes is a win, and will ensure you’re forever popular with your friends and family!

Halong Bay is probably one of Vietnam’s most well-known attractions. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in northeastern Vietnam, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and distinctive karst limestone formations.

Characterized by emerald-green waters dotted with thousands of towering limestone islets topped with lush vegetation, Halong Bay offers a mesmerizing seascape.

Bai Tu Long Bay is part of the famous Halong Bay. This bay is a lot quieter and peaceful compared to the more popular spots in Halong Bay.

With limestone towering islets everywhere you look, Bai Tu Long Bay is best to be seen over a few days on a cruise.

Kayak on the waters, walk on the islands and visit a local village to learn about how the locals live and about the area of Halong Bay.

Make sure to save at least one day to go on a cruise down Halong Bay, it’s one of the best things to see in Vietnam.

You go on holidays to see the new place but also to meet people. Don’t be shy to chat with locals. Practice your Vietnamese and they can practise their English.

It is amazing who you can meet by putting your guard down sometimes. It can be hard to have a real, authentic experience with locals when you travel, so do everything you can to be open to genuine invitations.

If you are interested there are local university students in the bigger cities that have groups where you can contact them for a time and day.

They love chatting with foreigners, just buy them coffee or lunch. Check out Saigon Hotpot in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi Kids in Hanoi.

If you want to get your heart racing, go canyoning in Dalat!

We loved this experience in the beautiful French colonial city of Dalat. This day tour is full-on, with waterfalls up to 18 metres high to rappel off, rock slides to slide down and even an 11-metre cliff jump.

It is an action-packed day. The company we went with were so professional and are highly trained.

You can go all out and do it all, or challenge yourself and do what you feel comfortable with

The staff are there beside you the whole time. It is a day you will not forget.

If you’re not the adventurous type, don’t worry! Go on a tour of Dalat , it’s interesting an interesting ancient town on its own.

Want to read about our canyoning experience? Check out our article on canyoning in Dalat .

One of the most interesting parts of travelling is trying all the different food available, and Vietnam isn’t any different.

Every country has their own styles and twists on cuisine, so be adventurous and give them a try. Vietnamese food, in general, is very delicious, but it can also be pretty unusual.

We had duck blood soup when we were in Northern Vietnam and surprisingly it was not too bad.

We also tried monkey brains in Phong Nha, which was a local delicacy served for very special occasions.

If you are invited over to a locals house for a meal, give all the food a try, even if it’s something you’d never normally try.

If you want to learn more about the local cuisine, take a food tour in Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi, Da Nang or Hoi An.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are both very busy cities, and one of the best places to admire the hustle and bustle is from above on a rooftop.

We found a lot of great bars and cafes near busy intersections or roundabouts and watched day turn into night with the thousands (and thousands) of scooters zipping around below.

It was crazy watching all the traffic take on the large roundabout and the occasional scooter bumps which causes some quick arguing, looking and then they move on.

Check out the EON51 Restaurant and Lounge on level 50 of the Bitexco Financial Tower in Ho Chi Minh City. This has a great view, but you do pay for it with the prices of the drinks and food.

The rooftop views in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are some of our favourite things to see in Vietnam.

Check out our epic list of things to do in Hanoi.

As Vietnam’s third-biggest city, Da Nang is quite awesome. So don’t be surprised if you end up spending more time here than you expected.

Da Nang is in the centre of the country and has a wonderful cultural vibe about it. The food is amazing, the people are cool, and there’s so much to see and do!

If you love beaches, then Da Nang has you covered. There are long stretches of sand perfect for swimming, surfing or sunbathing, and you can find lots of cheap hotels and resorts along them.

The peninsula near Da Nang is a great spot to spend the day, with lots of cool little hikes and coves to check out.

But one of our favourite places in Da Nang is the Marble Mountains , a collection of hills that have been mined for marble over the years and are now left rising out of the flat city landscape.

You can climb them to visit some temples and get gorgeous views over Da Nang. Definitely worth visiting!

Don’t forget to include this highlight on your list of what to see in Vietnam!

Don’t miss out on all the best things to do in Da Nang in our detailed article .

You can do this all over Vietnam. From the Mekong Delta in the south to Sapa in the north, there are homestays in a lot of rural areas.

A homestay is where you stay with locals in their home (not a hotel or bed & breakfast) and you share incredible experiences with them, such as eating together as a family.

You can help the family cook their meals or be involved in daily chores just by showing an interest is why the locals do this.

The Vietnamese people love showing visitors how they live and are happy to teach you more about their culture.

Visiting the Imperial City in Hue will teach you a huge part of the history of Vietnam from when the Nguyen Dynasty ruled the country from 1802 to 1945.

For its history and beauty, the Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth the visit.

The Imperial City is a massive complex which features hundreds of monuments and ruins that will take you back in time.

They have a 3D story video which explains a lot and we highly recommend you watch. If you love learning about history , get a guide and go deep into the past .

READ MORE: Check out this post on our recommendations for the best things to do in Hue!

If you want to get out of the city and be in nature check out Bach Ma National Park. With amazing hiking and biking, these scenic trails will amaze you.

You can organise tours out of Hue or hire a scooter, explore the national park for the day or more, and enjoy the trails that are offered from easy to difficult levels with various lengths.

There are fresh ponds to take a dip, hike to waterfalls and great view spots to take a break and take in the beauty of the national park.

Be prepared for wet conditions and make sure you have some good shoes.

There are also a fair number of leeches so check your body for these suckers.

We highly recommend spending a few days in the national park and even getting a guide so you get the best out of the area.

For nature enthusiasts, this is one of the more popular Vietnam attractions.

We bet you didn’t know Vietnam had its own version of Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway! Well, now you do, and it’s definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Vietnam.

Ganh Da Dia in the south is a spectacular rock formation that juts out from the coast and into the sea.

Thousands of hexagonal basalt columns come out of the earth in mesmerising ways, often with not even a millimetre of space between them.

It’s pretty off-the-beaten-path, so chances are you’ll have this entire site to yourself.

Want to visit for yourself? Check out our article about Ganh Da Dia to find out how!

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is one tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City a lot of people will visit.

It is best to hire a guide and learn about the underground network of tunnels located about 40 kilometres from the city in the Cu Chi District.

The tunnels were used as hiding spots, hospitals, living quarters and supply routes by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.

The narrow passages give a harrowing insight into what it must have been like for the soldiers and families that had to live through such a horrific time in Vietnam’s history.

You can do this on your own out of Ho Chi Minh City, but we recommend going on a guided tour through Get Your Guide .

Most tourists skip the cool town of Kon Tum near the border of Laos, and it’s a real shame because those that do make it out here are always blown away!

The city of Kon Tum itself is quite a standard city, with lots of traffic and little parks along the river you can get away from the noise. But the true highlights are when you escape the downtown area.

Rent a bicycle or motorbike and head out into the hill tribe villages and farmlands, where you will come across some of the coolest ethnic structures in Vietnam!

The hill tribes around Kon Tum are known for their huge Long Houses, steep-pitched wooden shelters that act as community halls.

If you’re really lucky you might come across a traditional ceremony as well. Kon Tum is well worth a visit if you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Vietnam.

There are so many beautiful and iconic pagodas to visit throughout Vietnam. These pagodas are full of traditions, beliefs and interesting architecture, with the stunning decorations.

Some of the most famous pagodas to visit are Perfume Pagoda and Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, One Pillar Pagoda near Ho Chi Minh City, Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue, Linh Phuoc Pagoda, Linh An Pagoda and Van Hanh Pagoda in Dalat .

When visiting the pagodas please be mindful to respect the culture. Walk into the pagodas on the right and exit on the left.

Take off your shoes when entering, be respectful of people praying, don’t point your feet at the alter or statues and dress conservatively, so no hats, no exposed shoulders and no shorts.

The best time to visit a pagoda is in the morning before the crazy crowds come in.

We had heard about Ninh Binh as we were travelling north and lots of travellers had said to stop in, so we did.

It is worth it.

Ninh Binh is a decent-sized ancient town an hour south of Hanoi, surrounded by rice fields and hundreds of limestone cliffs.

People call the area the “Halong Bay On The Land”, and once you get there you’ll understand why. Huge Karst mountains rise out of the earth, with gorgeous rivers and lakes wrapping around them.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Ninh Binh is the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grottoes consist of a handful of caves and rocks towering out from a large network of canals and lakes. It is so beautiful.

We chose to do a tour of this one over Tam Coc, as we have heard Tam Coc is crowded and has become quite commercial over the years.

Ninh Binh really is a marvellous place to visit in Vietnam.

Why not give yourself a challenge and climb the highest mountain in Indochina, Mount Fansipan. Located just outside of Sapa, this hike will challenge you. But you will be rewarded with stunning views.

We did the hike in one day. But if you do not hike often, we recommend doing the hike in 2 days. This way you can camp at the hut up the top and enjoy sunset and sunrise all alone.

You can book tours through most of the guesthouses in Sapa. There is a gondola now that goes to the top. So if you are not a hiker, you can still go to the top of Mount Fansipan to enjoy the views

Each way on the gondola takes approximately 15 minutes and will set you back 600,000 Vietnamese Dong per adult.

Vietnam isn’t known for being a diving paradise, especially with hotspots like Indonesia and the Philippines close by. But if you love getting underwater then there are some good spots to do it.

Nha Trang in the south is quite a popular place for Russian tourists. But if we are completely honest with you, it really isn’t that nice.

It’s busy and the beaches are quite developed. But there’s a couple of good reasons you should go here anyway.

First of all the motorbike ride from Dalat to Nha Trang is amazing, and well worth checking out.

If you’re a certified diver then once you get to Nha Trang why not head out for a couple of fun dives in the South China Sea?

We did two dives in Nha Trang and were pleasantly surprised by how good it was. We weren’t expecting much, but it turned out to be really enjoyable, with a couple of caves to swim through and a decent amount of fish.

Check out our article about scuba diving in Nha Trang.

Vietnam has a number of beautiful tropical islands, which are all worthy of taking a relaxing island getaway to.

Phu Quoc is probably the most popular of these islands. An island getaway to Phu Quoc is one of the best things to do in Vietnam!

Situated off the southwestern coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc has emerged as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and diverse marine life.

Beyond the idyllic beaches, Phu Quoc also boasts lush national parks, such as Phu Quoc National Park, where visitors can explore dense forests, trek to waterfalls, and encounter unique wildlife.

We recommend that you also check out Con Dao Island in the south. This is a quieter option compared to Phu Quoc.

Overall the Con Dao Archipelago is one of the most beautiful destinations in Vietnam.

You will find stunning mountains, thick canopies of forest and amazing marine life.

Yep, it is a diving paradise. If you are in the north check out Cat Ba Island, which is the bigger island of Halong Bay.

There are 3 lovely beaches located near the main town on Cat Ba Island and the gorgeous Cat Ba National Park for exploring.

[box] That’s it! Have we missed anything? Did you find the list useful? Let us know in the comments below![/box]

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Ho Chi Minh City

Phong nha-ke bang national park, sapa countryside, cu chi tunnels, ba be national park, mekong delta, cat ba island, phu quoc island, 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.

View of colorful fishing boats from the Phu Quoc cable-car

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

Top 7 Reasons to Visit Vietnam - Why Travel to Vietnam

Natural Beauty

Affordability

Friendly people.

Vietnam is an extraordinary country that touches the hearts and souls of all who visit, leaving them wishing for more time to explore and discover its unique culture. Whether you eat your way through a country, are looking for the best beaches or want to get off the beaten track, Vietnam is the place for you.

With accessibility improving every day, largely because of the increase in English speakers, this is the perfect time to visit Vietnam. It is still off the radar of the average traveler, but just traveled enough that you can build your dream adventure and feel like you know what to do and what to avoid. Visit today to see the natural Vietnam and beat the hordes of tourists.

Vietnam's culture dates back to 2,000 BC. Like many other countries in the region, its history is complicated, starting from the Dong Son culture that spanned thousands of years, and moving through many different leaders, lords, and dynasties.

Chinese, Khmer, and Indian cultures, as well as the French culture during colonial rule, have all influenced Vietnam.

Much of Vietnam's history is brought to life for visitors through various architecture, museums, and tours, like the tours through the tunnel systems under Ho Chi Min City (Saigon).

By exploring such places you will be better able to understand Vietnam through the eyes of locals, and to see how their long history has been shaped into the culture we see today.

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

Foodies around the world seek out authentic Vietnamese cuisine, because it's simply the best. It's always fresh, tasty and healthy. Whether you are eating at a food stall or in a restaurant, the food is heavenly.

Pho noodle soup, spring rolls, banh mi (Vietnamese baguette), sticky rice and seafood are everyday staples that you need to try. The food will be kind to your taste buds and your wallet, with fresh seafood dinners for two costing anywhere from $8 to $20 (on average).

You can enjoy such seafood dinners at a restaurant, or if you are more daring on a beach, having them cooked right in front of you while you watch the sunset.

Vietnam's geographical location makes it a prime location for indulging in some of the best fruit around. It can provide you with some of the classics like watermelon, pineapple, bananas and mangos, but also introduce you to some unfamiliar tastes like mangosteen, durian, and lychee.

Vietnam is the second largest exporter of coffee worldwide! That's saying a lot when you consider that most neighboring countries are more consumed by tea than coffee.

Vietnam can offer you classic black coffee, or its more famous specialty iced coffee (coffee with condensed milk; it sounds too good to be true and that's because it is). Your coffee can also be made with coconut milk, egg yolk or even yoghurt!

Coffee lovers are in seventh heaven in Vietnam, with coffee shops on almost every street, and café's to suit everyone's taste. These are great places for meeting locals or travelers. Or just relax and re-energize, giving your feet a break from all the walking.

Natural Beauty: Beaches and Mountains

Vietnam is endowed with 3,000 kilometers of pristine tropical coastline, resulting in some of the best beaches in the world. Luckily most of its beaches aren't crowded with tourists like Thailand or Philippines, but we recommend going now before everyone finds out.

The mountains here are otherworldly. Stretching from the east to the west coast and rising out of the ocean, these karst mountains need to be seen in person to be fully appreciated. Many hikers can spend their whole trip exploring these peaks via small roads and winding trails.

Put simply Vietnam's natural beauty is unmatched. It contains a handful of World Heritage Sites: Halong Bay, Phon Nha Ke Bang Caves, Hoi An Ancient Street and Cham Islands.

Even if you can't make it to all the World Heritage Sites in Vietnam, some of the landscapes and views found in even the most normal places are breathtaking and worth seeing.

Vietnam can create a great budget vacation while still meeting your quality needs. With a wide selection of hostels at very cheap prices, you will be able to spend your money how you want.

For those looking for something a little nicer, you will be very pleased with what your money can buy. Typically a 5-star hotel in Vietnam will cost you about the same as a 3-star hotel in the USA.

Although the language barrier can seem intimidating at first, once you take a step out of your comfort zone you will find that communicating is a lot easier than you had thought. This is because the locals really try to understand you, and are able to communicate quite well through body language.

When you may feel overwhelmed by the new culture, language, and places, the locals are more than willing to help you, and they'll do it with a smile.

When visitors are lost, some locals have even been known to walk them to where they are trying to go, just to make sure they get there safely.

For those seeking adventure, look no further than Vietnam. Whether it's exploring local culinary mysteries, small alleys filled with souvenirs or mountain roads on motorcycles, Vietnam offers adventure for all. It's just waiting for you to discover it.

Cities and villages alike will be full of new challenges, which inevitably create the best stories and lasting memories. Our advice is to practice getting out of your comfort zone, and getting comfortable in the uncomfortable. It's a lot more fun than it sounds.

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Trip Ideas to Vietnam

Top 15 Reasons Why You Must Visit Vietnam Once in Your Lifetime

With countless advantages to develop tourism, Vietnam is confirming its position on the planet's tourism map. You are wondering why Vietnam is put on many travel bucket lists. Why is it such a fascinating destination? Let's find out the 15 reasons to visit Vietnam at least once in your life.

1. Vietnam is a safe destination

2. delicious food paradise, 3. vietnam offers breathtaking natural landscapes, 4. a country with unique cultural values, 5. cultural diversity of 54 ethnic groups, 6. friendly local people, 7. lots of festivals and celebrations, 8. an affordable tourist destination, 9. many vibrant traditional markets, 10. beautiful beach resorts for a beach vacation, 11. the heaven of beauty services, 12. astonishing works of unique architecture, 13. mysterious places for adventurers, 14. one of the fastest-growing countries in asia, 15. various options of souvenirs to take home.

I am sure that before you decide on a destination for a vacation, the first thing you should evaluate is the safety of that destination. If you are considering going to Vietnam, you can have total peace of mind. In the surveys of many world famous travel magazines such as Telegraph, Dailystar, Roughguides, Vietnam is always in the top safest destinations. Therefore, the number of international tourists coming to Vietnam each year continues to increase steadily and shows no signs of abating.

There are a few explanations:

First of all, Vietnam has only one leading party, the Communist Party of Vietnam. With a country with a stable political background like Vietnam, visitors can travel without worrying about political upheaval.

Secondly, there has never been a single terrorist attack in Vietnam for thousands of years. When there are major political events and visits by presidents of other countries, the security system in Vietnam is always 100% guaranteed. Therefore, tourists can make their trip freely without worrying about security problems.

Then, actually, the rate of theft and violence is relatively low. You can take a walk alone at night without worrying. Therefore, Vietnam is also an ideal place for women to travel because of its safety.

The UK's leading travel website - Rough Guides, has recently announced its list of countries with the most attractive cuisine on the planet, and Vietnam is honoured to be ranked 5th for the title of "culinary paradise of the century."

First, with rice civilization dating back thousands of years, Vietnamese dishes are diversified by this ingredient. From cakes, vermicelli, pho, rice, rice paper, rice rolls with different kinds of vegetarian and savoury fillings. If you love rice or light dishes, Vietnam is just a paradise for you.

Meanwhile, Vietnamese cuisine, on the other hand, has some interesting processing principles. One must talk about a cuisine that attaches great importance to the harmony of yin-yang within each dish. In fact, there are dishes and ingredients to refresh in summer. There are hot dishes to keep warm on cold days. This makes Vietnam cuisine selected among the healthiest in the world. Then, also the use of a variety of vegetables, spices, and various typical sauces brings unique flavours to diners that cannot be found anywhere else.

Another interesting point is that in Vietnam, there is no specific time to eat, the restaurant is always open, so within walking distance from the hotel, you can enjoy the delicious food. It's great, isn't it?

Some information you don't want to miss:

See more: Top 10 Delicious Vietnamese Dishes

With three-quarters of the area encompassed by mountains and plateaus, Vietnam offers you unique and diverse natural scenery. From the selected Top Geoparks in the world at Dong Van, Non Nuoc to the majestic landscapes created by a combination of mountains, rivers, lakes, and the sea at Halong Bay, Ba Be, Ha Giang, from the terraced fields created by the hand of man at Mu Cang Chai, Sapa to the primaeval forests, melaleuca forests, mangrove forests, endless sand dunes. The beautiful landscapes that nature gives Vietnam will take you on an exciting journey.

Moreover, with a long coastline, visitors can soak in the moment of sunrise or enjoy the peaceful moment of sunset. A system of bays, islands and archipelagos will not disappoint you with its fascinating landscapes.

If you love natural scenes, Vietnam is a place just for you. Notice at once some UNESCO natural heritage sites in Vietnam.

Phong Nha National Park - Ke Bang
Dong Van Stone Plateau Geopark
Trang An Complex

Besides natural beauty, what do you expect from a trip? New culture to discover, history is a compelling reason... With over 4,000 years of history, Vietnam has experienced many ups and downs: Chinese domination, interference with other cultures such as Japan Ban, India, Thailand, Khmer, the conquest of the Champa Kingdom,...

These changes have made Vietnam a country with an open culture where visitors can easily feel the similarities in the beliefs, ways of thinking, and customs of Vietnamese people similar to other cultures. However, these are localised in very indigenous and interesting ways.

Here are the World Cultural Heritages in Vietnam:

A complex of Hue Monuments
Hoi An Ancient Town
My Son Sanctuary
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Citadel of the Ho Dynasty
Hue’s Royal Court Music
Cultural Space of Goong in Tay Nguyen
Quan Ho Bac Ninh folk songs
Saint Giong Festival
Xoan Singing of Phu Tho Province
Worship of Hùng Kings
Art of Don Ca Tai Tu Music and Song
Vi and Giam folk songs of Nghe Tinh

Vietnam is a multiethnic country with 54 different ethnic groups. The Kinh (Viet) ethnic group makes up about 85% of the population, and the other 53 ethnic groups make up 15%. These ethnic groups are divided into 5 language families, and each has different cultures and customs.

Arriving in Vietnam, especially in the northern mountains such as Mu Cang Chai, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, and Ba Be, travellers can visit the typical villages of minor ethnic groups, discovering their impressive customs and lifestyles. In addition, typical ethnic cuisines with unique flavours will also evoke your taste buds.

There are many ways to discover Vietnam's ethnic diversity such as paying a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnography in Hanoi, going directly to tribal villages, or simply going to ethnic markets.

Discover itineraries in North Vietnam that you can have chances to contact with ethnic minorities in Vietnam:

Mu Cang Chai

why should you visit vietnam friendly local people

Being originally an agricultural country, Vietnam attaches great importance to maintaining good relations with community members. In fact, the purpose is not only for business needs but is an expression of affection and gratitude, which has the effect of tightening relationships.

For tourists, the Vietnamese have a good attitude; they are very welcoming. Not only merchants who seem happy to sell their goods but also passersby or children who meet foreign tourists often have cheerful smiles. It is the hospitality that makes visitors feel welcome in Vietnam.

In case tourists get lost on the way, they will receive directions enthusiastically from Vietnamese people. However, some people may not be very fluent in English. They still find a way to express themselves or, therefore, directly accompany tourists to the place they want to go. How wonderful!

See more: Vietnam Manners - Dos and Don'ts in Vietnam

reasons to go to vietnam festival year around

Vietnam boasts a diverse culture with a long history and vibrant ethnic colours. Therefore, numerous festivals are waiting for you to take part in. Vietnamese people have the tradition of worshipping not only the Buddha, Saints but also national heroes and people who have contributed to the lives of locals and ancestors. From the North to the South of Vietnam and almost every month of the year, visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, especially in the spring. There are many festivals loved by tourists, such as Tet - Lunar New Year, which takes place on the first day of the lunar year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Ghost Festival,...

Read this article so you don't miss any interesting festivals during your trip to Vietnam: Top Traditional Vietnam Festivals and Public Holidays

why should you visit vietnam hoi an ancient town

"A tight budget can't stop you from visiting faraway countries." This quote appeared in the Canadian magazine "The Travel" and serves as an affirmation for those wishing to travel to Vietnam. With only about 2 USD, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of Pho, a Vietnamese speciality, or sample egg coffee, a must-try street food in Hanoi. This means you can comfortably travel to Vietnam on a budget or opt for high-class services at a very reasonable price. Many people have chosen Vietnam for their honeymoon to savour all the beautiful and romantic moments and to have new experiences within their budget. Vietnam is an ideal destination for travellers with varying budgets.

Not only is Vietnam a suitable destination for everyone - seniors, children, honeymoon couples, and groups of friends, but there are also some very attractive experiences for you. Check out our recommendations for your group.

See more: The Ultimate Guide to Money and Currency in Vietnam

why is vietnam a popular tourist destination

With its cultural diversity, Vietnam offers many opportunities for tourists to penetrate local life. The most favourite and appreciated way is to visit traditional markets. From big cities to remote rural areas, you can find weekend markets, consumer markets, flea markets, fish markets, flower markets, and even floating markets on rivers in the Mekong Delta area. Each market wins the hearts of tourists for its distinct and unique beauty.

>> See more: Top 15 unique ethnic markets in Northern Mountains of Vietnam

It is no exaggeration to say that Vietnam's seaside is also a gift that Mother Nature granted this S-shaped country.

With a coastline of 3400 km, Vietnam has many beautiful and poetic beaches. Here is a list of the most wonderful beaches in Vietnam ! However, it should be noted that along the country's coastline, there are still so many hidden pristine beaches that are not popular with tourists. They really are the hidden gems!

In addition to the beaches, the islands in Vietnam are also very enchanting, with crystal clear, limpid water and breathtaking beaches.

Gorgeous bays are also a source of pride for Vietnamese people. Several bays have been ranked among the most beautiful in the world. It is worth mentioning that Halong Bay has been recognized twice by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

Interesting facts:

Halong Bay , Nha Trang Bay , and Lang Co Bay are the three haven bays in Vietnam that are mentioned in the list of the world's most beautiful bays
Dam Trau Beach , in Con Dao Sea, Ba Ria Province - Vung Tau, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world (Travel + Leisure magazine)
Travellers' Choice Awards 2021 announced the 25 most beautiful beaches in Asia, including An Bang beach (Hoi An) and My Khe beach (Da Nang)
NZ Herald News (New Zealand's largest newspaper) has just published the 7 best beaches in the world, including Da Nang beach

See more: The 10 Best Islands in Vietnam for Travellers

why go to vietnam heaven of beauty services

Do you love to do beauty and health care such as hair care, manicure, massage or just an herbal foot bath to stay healthy? Here you find the right tourist destination. In Vietnam, especially in big cities, you can find these services at really affordable prices. With a traditional spa treatment that includes a sauna, massage and light meals starting at just US$20 for 90 minutes. If you want a new haircut at the salon, the price is only about US$10. If you want to experience the feeling of cutting your hair on the sidewalks, hairdressers can surprise you with the price of 1 USD for a perfect men's hairstyle.

Vietnam is a paradise for beauty, so don't forget to try this experience.

See more: The Best Spa and Massage in Hanoi Old Quarter

can i travel to vietnam definitely yes for unique architecture

Going through changes in history and the destruction of war, Vietnam is a country with very typical architectural works. If you are an architecture lover, you can see many interesting things while travelling in Vietnam.

These are ancient architectural works that strictly follow the rules of the Five Elements and the yin-yang Theory, like most ancient buildings in Vietnam, such as the Hue Citadel, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and Minh Mang's Tomb. There are also buildings that combine French architecture localised to optimise weather problems with an extremely attractive Indochinese style.

Not only that, modern architectural works are widely publicised, such as the Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills, the Bridge of Kisses in Phu Quoc, the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang, or even skyscrapers such as Bitexco, Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City always impresses tourists.

Drop a quick visit to these amazing landmarks, and you will admire the skills of humans now and then.

See more: Top 15 Vietnam Bridges that Become World Famous

a reason to visit vietnam is adventurous places

Do you love adventures, travel that gets the adrenaline pumping in your blood, making you feel a sense of achievement and fulfilment? Vietnam is the land for you. In 2013, the whole world was surprised when information about the world's largest cave ever heard of in Quang Binh, Vietnam, announced the Son Doong Cave is the world's largest cave. This underground cave has its own rivers, streams, and even ecosystems. It's amazing. Recently, people have continued to find another Hung Thoong cave system in this land, and interesting discoveries have occurred. This is truly a promising land for adventurers!

Interesting fact: Quang Binh, Vietnam, was chosen as the filming location for Kong Skull Island (2017) and Pan (2015).

See more: Interesting things to do in Quang Binh

a reason to go to vietnam is that it is a fast growing country

Vietnam is a country quite well known for one of the most brutal wars of the 20th century. Moreover, in the 4,000-year history of this country, almost half of which, the people of Vietnam have suffered wars, domination and colonisation by other rich countries. Sometimes, it breaks my heart that this country is associated with the word "war". Actually, the War in Vietnam officially ended in 1975, but its remnants in Vietnam, including the embargo, only ended in 1990. So, this country has only about 30 years to develop freely and independently.

So, when you come to Vietnam nowadays, you will be really overwhelmed by the speed of development. However, not just trying to develop at any cost, Vietnamese people still live happily, optimistically and respect the cultural values inherited from the past generations.

a tourist destinations with lots of cute souvenirs

With a diverse gastronomy, a rich culture with countless handmade traditional handicrafts, you can easily choose something to take back to your darlings and friends. Explore local markets, handicraft shops, and speciality stores to find the perfect gifts to take back home.

See more: Unique Hanoi Souvenirs to Bring Home

Above mentioned are 15 reasons to visit Vietnam . You can even find more reasons to love this land. Recently, Vietnam has been standing as a vibrant and captivating destination that beckons travellers from all corners of the globe. By booking a tour of Vietnam, you can unlock the full potential of this remarkable country. Expert guides will lead you through the hidden alleys, ensuring you discover the true essence of Vietnam. Unforgettable experiences, awe-inspiring sights, and cherished moments await you in this captivating country. Feel free to send an inquiry to [email protected] or comment below if you have any wonders.

(Photo: Internet)

Best Time to Visit Vietnam by Region and Month
Travel to Vietnam in 10 Days - The Most Interesting Itinerary Ideas
Two-Week Vietnam Itineraries: The Best of Vietnam in 15 Days
3-Week Vietnam Itinerary: The Best of Vietnam in 21 Days

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07 comments.

Plumey Jadeau France

Kayla Le Vietnam

Akash Gulati India

Franco Massi Italy

Haven’t been to Vietnam before. Traveling with hubby and an 11 and a 6 years old. I am thinking Da Nang or Hoi An for 7 days. Is there somewhere else you recommend?

Hi Franco, for 7 days in Central Vietnam, you might like to visit Hue Imperial City and Phong Nha Cave if your family would love to see as much of Vietnam as possible. See more advice on travel to Central Vietnam in this article: Exploring the Best of Central Vietnam Itinerary . Have a wonderful trip!

Mariangela Laurence Australia

Vietnamese people are so friendly and kind. We love Vietnam so much so would like to spend my holiday in Vietnam again.

Thank you very much for your kind words. Welcome to Vietnam again. If you need any assistance, please let us know. Have a great day!

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The 15 best things you can do in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Taking a cruise along the Mekong Delta is an incredible experience not to be missed © Cultura Exclusive / Rosanna U / Getty Images

The siren song of Vietnam has brought many travelers to its shores in search of incredible landscapes, pearl-white beaches , chaotic and vibrant cities, and one of the warmest welcomes in the world.

The tough decision for travelers isn't whether they should visit Vietnam, it's how they choose what to do with so many incredible options. Do you start in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)? Do you swap the big city experience for the beaches and seafood suppers of Phu Quoc island? Do you dive headlong into the history of a dozen rival empires, or embrace the dynamic, modern Vietnam that has emerged from the aftermath of conflict?

No matter what you want your vacation to look like, accept that you'll never cover everything in one trip and embrace it as a reason to return. Here are 15 incredible things to do that need to be on your Vietnam to-do list.

1. Embrace past and future Vietnam in historic Hanoi

The vibrant capital of the former North Vietnam – and today the capital of the nation – Hanoi is where old and new Vietnam come together. Traces of the imperial past float like ghosts in a city surging skywards – hawkers drift through the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter selling snacks from traditional yoke baskets, while the surrounding buildings are lit up with advertising displays and strip lights.

Exploring at street level is highly atmospheric and fantastic fun – mix up days visiting wartime and imperial relics with evenings feasting on some of Asia’s finest food and late nights dousing the sticky summer heat with glasses of bia hoi (local draught beer).

Planning tip: As they say, Hanoi rocks, and the best places to rock out like a local are lively live music venues such as the moody Binh Minh Jazz Club and keep-it-loud Hanoi Rock City .

2. Find your own island in the sun in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Okay, we concede that Halong Bay – the atmospheric sprawl of rocky coves and eroded karst islands to the east of Hanoi – is firmly discovered, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to discover away from the cruise ship crowds. If a tour on a diesel-powered luxury junk doesn’t appeal, consider hiring a kayak to potter around Lan Ha Bay near Cat Ba Island , where outcrops sculpted by wind and waves emerge from the water like the teeth of sea monsters.

Alternatively, leave the diesel fumes behind in calmer Bai Tu Long Bay to the north, where more jungle-capped islands shelter low-key resorts and languorous beaches.

High angle close up of a bowl of bun bo hue, or beef noodle soup.

3. Get your fill of imperial cuisine in handsome Hue

Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty held court in Hue until 1945, and the city’s damaged but still impressive historic relics feel somehow closer to imperial China than to the rest of Southeast Asia. However, for many travelers, it’s all about the food. More than half of Vietnam's estimated 3000 local dishes are believed to have originated in Hue, from the vermicelli-noodle-based bun bo Hue and crispy banh khoai pancakes topped with shrimp and pork to canapé-like, soft-and-crunchy banh ram it dumplings. The lavish imperial cuisine known as am thuc cung dinh – created by the emperors’ loyal chefs – can still be sampled in some of Hue's top restaurants, such as Thin Gia Vien and Hoang Phu .

Planning tip: Don’t restrict yourself to posh imperial banquets; for less than 100,000 dong you can gorge on tasty Hue staples at busy stalwart restaurants such as Madam Thu or at food stalls on the streets.

4. Meet Vietnam’s imperial leaders in the Hue tombs

Hue gets a second spot on the list thanks to the astounding imperial tombs, which preserve the mortal remains of a string of Nguyen emperors and empresses, from dynasty-founding Gia Long to Khai Dinh , the last Nguyen emperor to be buried on Vietnamese soil (his son, Bao Dai, the final emperor of Vietnam, was interred in the Cimetière de Passy in Paris ).

While crowds mob the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure, you can still find peaceful moments for contemplation by skipping the boat tours and renting a motorcycle to visit the extravagant mausoleums along the Perfume River. Don’t miss the towering Thien Mu pagoda , looming over the north bank on the city fringes.

Detour: Equipped with two wheels, you can also buzz north from Hue to enjoy unspoiled dune beaches on the sandy barrier island stretching north and south from Thuan An.

5. Learn to make soups, stir-fries and salads on a cooking course

There’s no better souvenir to bring home from Vietnam than being able to prepare your own Vietnamese feast. Indeed, Vietnamese food arguably has a bigger dinner-party cachet than more familiar Thai cuisine.

Up and down the country, you’ll find cooking courses that start with a fragrant market trip to buy fresh ingredients and local herbs and end with a banquet of the dishes you’ve prepared, covering everything from summer rolls to pho noodle soup.

Hoi An is the most popular destination for aspiring chefs – small and personal Green Bamboo Cooking School is highly recommended. There are also good cooking schools in Hue, Hanoi and HCMC.

A woman approaches a ruin surrounded by jungle

6. Unravel Vietnam’s complex religious history in My Son

While travelers mob the regal assembly halls, pagodas and historic homes of Hoi An, nearby My Son offers a calmer vision of Vietnam’s rich and layered past – particularly if you come in the afternoon. The big lure here is the atmospheric collection of UNESCO-listed Hindu temple ruins surrounded by jungle in a loop of the sacred Thu Bon river.

Sharing many architectural features with the Khmer temples of Cambodia and Thailand , these crumbling, red-brick shrines were built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Hindu kingdom of Champa, whose descendants – the Cham people – can still be found in pockets in central Vietnam. With only birdsong to disrupt the quiet, the site scores highly for atmosphere as well as history,

Detour: If you use Hoi An as a base for exploring My Son, set aside a day to explore the nearby Cham Islands , an impressive marine reserve whose granite islands are still inhabited by Cham people, most now followers of Islam.

Explore My Son effortlessly with GetYourGuide. Book your tour today .

7. Visit the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

One of the world’s youngest faiths, the Cao Dai religion was founded in the Mekong Delta town of Tay Ninh in 1926, fusing elements of ancestor worship, folk religions, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Roman Catholicism, with the ultimate goal of freeing the soul from the endless cycle of reincarnation.

To explore its complex customs, head to the cathedral-like Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh. Inside, you’ll see weapon-toting statues, an all-seeing eye, and even a Communist-looking red star – the sect reveres, amongst other figures, Jesus Christ, Buddha, Mohammed and even French novelist Victor Hugo.

Planning tip: Visitors can enter the shrine to witness prayers four times a day; if you have time to kill before or after a visit, detour 15km (9.3 miles) northeast to Nui Ba Den mountain. You can take a gondola then hike to reach its summit cave temples, then whoosh back downhill on a luge-style slide.

Dense, crowed scene of city traffic in rush hour, crowd of people wear helmet, transport by motorcycle,

8. Rumble through the highlands by motorcycle

Vietnam largely moves on two wheels, and a motorcycle is by far the most enjoyable way to explore the hill country of the northwest , even if it takes some courage to adjust to the driving conditions, the errant livestock, and the steep, winding roads. Rent a quality bike in Hanoi and pop your wheels on the train to Lao Cai, to avoid the nerve-jangling ride out of the capital.

Once you reach the heart of the hill country, you can rumble out to outlying villages far from the tourist crowds for epic views and nights in charming homestays run by members of Vietnam’s tribal minorities.

Planning tip: You’ll need an international driving permit to ride legally in Vietnam, and this is only available for some nationalities. Many travelers manage to rent a motorcycle without a permit, but if things go wrong, you won’t be covered by your travel insurance.

9. See the American War through Vietnamese eyes

Modern-day Vietnam is moving on from conflict, but the battlefields from the American War still linger as a sobering reminder of what people had to go through to get to this point. Sites of American losses such as Hamburger Hill in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) are etched into the popular consciousness, but the wartime tunnels at Cu Chi near HCMC and Vinh Moc near Hue offer a glimpse of the Vietnamese experience, as ordinary people went to extraordinary lengths to resist the world’s greatest superpower.

10. Visit villages in the "Asian Alps"

The former French Hill station of Sapa is surrounded by mountains so impressive that French colonizers called them the “Tonkinese Alps,” and the surrounding villages of the H'Mong and Dao ethnic minorities have become popular destinations for hikers – and somewhat commercialized in the process.

For a taste of the scenic serenity that first drew travelers to these lush green hills, head instead to drier, calmer Bac Ha , or the trails and mountain roads around Ha Giang province, tucked against the border with China and seemingly sculpted by the hands of the gods. Stay in hospitable homestays and explore markets, peaceful stilt-house villages, French-era relics and soaring limestone pinnacles, away from the maddening crowds.

Planning tip: There's a lot of competition for the title of best vista in Vietnam but the lookouts gazing over the Dong Van Karst Plateau are strong contenders. The area is designated as a UNESCO Geopark, and the trip from Yen Minh to Dong Van and over the Mai Pi Leng Pass to Meo Vac is particularly spectacular.

11. Find a perfect cup of coffee in the Central Highlands

It was the French colonizers who brought coffee from the Arabian peninsula to Vietnam, but it was the farmers of the Southwest Highlands who mastered the art of coaxing quality beans from these undulating hills. Rising to 1600m (5250ft), Dak Lak Province provides the perfect terroir for growing robusta beans, and the regional capital of Buon Ma Thuot is a great place to tour plantations and track down a quality cup of ca phe , particularly during the annual coffee festival in March. If you insist on arabica beans, head to Dalat and visit the community K'Ho Coffee cooperative, supporting local coffee growers from the K’Ho minority.

Planning tip: The best time to visit coffee country is from September to the end of December when the harvest season is in full swing and plantations are filled with baskets of red beans.

Transform your visit the Central Highlands by booking with GetYourGuide.

Man at the cave entrance in Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world in UNESCO World Heritage Site Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

12. Enter the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in north central Vietnam is a lost world of jungles and caverns, including the world’s largest, Hang Son Doong. The scale of this wonder of nature is simply mind-blowing – a 747 airplane could fly through the cave’s main tunnel.

Parts of the limestone ceiling have collapsed, bringing in natural sunlight, so Hang Son Doong contains an entire rainforest ecosystem with flying foxes, rare langurs, and even a small population of tigers. Since 2012, one tour company – Oxalis Adventure – has been allowed to take a strictly limited number of visitors into Hang Son Doong on challenging four-day treks; the price is stratospheric but so is the scenery.

13. Walk with the ghosts of French Indochina in Ho Chi Minh City

The former capital of South Vietnam may have changed its name from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) , but the past remains close to the surface, from the American War relics in the HCMC Museum and War Remnants Museum to the city’s elegant French-built mansions and civic buildings – many now housing museums, restaurants and boutique hotels.

To get a feel for vintage Saigon, stop for a cup of ca phe sua (milk coffee) at the elegant Hotel Continental Saigon , sample cutting-edge French cuisine at La Villa , and take a stroll past the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the People’s Committee Building – built as HCMC’s Hôtel de Ville but rebranded as the Vietnamese sent the colonizers packing.

Planning tip: To fully appreciate the marvelous, lip-tingling variety of HCMC street food, join a foodie-focused scooter tour with Saigon Street Eats .

Explore Ho Chi Minh City effortlessly with GetYourGuide. Book your tour today .

14. Bask on beautiful beaches

It was the beaches of Phu Quoc Island and Danang – developed as a playground for GIs during the American War – that put Vietnam on the map for seaside vacations, but both have developed into lively resorts. To find unspoiled stretches of sand, modern-day castaways aim their sights at the kitesurfing beaches around Mui Ne , the island sands of the Con Dao archipelago and long, languorous Hong Van Beach on Co To Island in Bai Tu Long Bay .

Planning tip: The best time for a beach trip varies as you move around the country. In central Vietnam, skies are brightest from January to August, while December to April is the beach window on the south coast, and northern Vietnam sees plenty of dry days from October to April.

15. Float on the Mekong Delta

Reaching out into the East Sea like an enormous hand, the mighty Mekong Delta marks the end point of Southeast Asia’s longest river – a 4350km (2700 mile) monster, rising on the Tibetan plateau and emptying to the south of Ho Chi Minh City. This waterlogged wonderland is Vietnam’s rice bowl, nurturing a network of sleepy towns and stilt villages whose residents use the river as their primary artery for life and trade.

For comfortable exploring, book an overnight cruise along the main channel near Can Tho or a cross-border trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia. For a less commercial experience, take a day trip to the backwaters near Ben Tre with Mango Cruises or make your own arrangements with boat owners in Delta villages.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2021 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on August 18, 2024

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.

1. Ha Long Bay

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

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

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

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

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

Map of Places to Visit in Vietnam

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Reader interactions.

September 15, 2019 at 1:19 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Lagoons Pha Tam Giang, Đầm Vân Long.

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

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

Enjoy your traveling trip!

May 1, 2019 at 2:46 am

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

March 3, 2019 at 1:49 am

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

March 29, 2018 at 9:26 pm

The market in Can Cau is fabulous.

November 21, 2017 at 10:29 pm

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

November 8, 2017 at 8:19 am

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

September 19, 2017 at 4:52 pm

I really liked Da Nang.

November 23, 2016 at 4:13 am

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

July 21, 2015 at 2:04 pm

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

June 2, 2015 at 6:46 am

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

November 7, 2014 at 4:11 am

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

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

Cham Islands day tour

Hoi An Private City Transfers for Da Nang, Hue & Ba Na Hills

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

12 Things to do in Hanoi + Tourist Spots

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 City & Cu Chi Tunnels Full Day Tour

See more : Ho Chi Minh travel tips

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

Mui Ne Travel Essentials

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

Mui Ne Private Jeep Tour

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

See more : Mui Ne travel tips

5 Things to do in Mui Ne + Tourist Spots

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

Da Lat Travel Essentials

Da Lat Waterfalls Day Tour

Da Lat Private Car Charter

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

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

Da Nang Private Car Charter

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 River Cruise Day Tour in Quang Binh

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

See more : Phong Nha travel tips

5 Places To Visit in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

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

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Nha Trang via Limousine

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

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

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Beyond Vietnam

Angkor Wat (temple) view from the reflecting pond

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

Thailand Travel Essentials

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Braemar Hill Peak in Hong Kong

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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!

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The Top 11 Cultural Destinations in Vietnam from the North to the South

Exploring the cultural Vietnam has never been easy, but with these 11 destinations, you will know where to kick start your culture-vulture journey in Vietnam.

Born and raised for 4000 years and vertically stretching over 3260 kilometers, Vietnam is an interesting cultural destination in the Indochina Peninsular and all over Southeast Asia.

The beauty of Vietnam culture assembles the finest essence of the Chinese, Indian, Cambodian, French, and an overall local Vietnamese tradition. All of these turn Vietnam into a newly emerging destination for culture-vulture visitors worldwide.

The 11 destinations below are carefully selected by both native and foreign travelers. Every city represents a unique cultural attractiveness up and down the length of the country.

The Top 11 Cultural Destinations in Vietnam from the North to the South

Table of Contents

1. Hanoi – A Thousand Years of Civilization

2. sapa – the harmonious beauty of the northwestern tribes, 3. ninh binh – the 10th century capital of feudal vietnam, 4. halong – culture of the serene fishing villages in the heart of a unesco’s heritage, 1. hue – footsteps of the last monarchy, 2. quang nam – vestiage of a long-lost kingdom and cultural integration, 3. central highlands – a private world of the central mountainous ethnic dwellers, 1. saigon – where food says it all, 2. can tho – where the exiles preserve a 300-year wetland civilization, 3. tra vinh – the “holy land” of the khmer cambodian, 4. chau doc – a sanctuary of religion and aquaculture, northern vietnam.

For over 1000 years of culture and civilization, Hanoi has long been a well-established capital of Vietnam.

Fast-forward to the year 2019, Hanoi is still the largest cultural city across the country with multiple heritages.

The ancient land of Hanoi has well assembled a huge gallery of legends, poems, songs, stories and heroes that have been ever living along with the revolution of Vietnam over time.

What makes Hanoi special is the collection of various features and aspects that make Hanoi a representative of the cultural Vietnam .

Those can be seen as the villages born nested to one another bearing a tranquil beauty of Buddhism which lie in between the French-built architectural icons.

All of the two distinct sites have beautifully blended into each other and drawn travelers’ attention to Hanoi, making it one of the most sought-after cultural and historical destinations in Vietnam.

Hanoi culture as well shines through an archive of the handicraft villages and the “36 streets for 36 trades’, which hide their vibrant attractiveness within the iconic Hanoi Old Quarter .

The most popular picks in this category are as follows: Bat Trang Ceramic Village, Ngoc Ha Flower Village, Hang Ma Street and Hang Bac Street.

Lastly, one of the biggest things that represent Hanoi the best is the huge diversity of its authentic gastronomy from the local taste to a high-end dining vibe.

If you’re coming to Hanoi and wondering what to take, make sure you check these out:

1.2- Nem Chua Be (Crab Rolls)

1.3- Cha Ca (Turmeric Fish with Dill)

1.4- Bun Thang (Rice Vermicelli with Chicken, Egg, Pork)

1.5- Banh Goi (Fried Dumplings)

1.6- These are just few of the mouthwatering dishes that bring the truest savor of Hanoi to your taste buds.

Sapa – The Harmonious Beauty of the Northwestern Tribes

Sapa is a “heaven on Earth” for travelers with the utmost desire for learning cultures of the minorities.

Moving a little further to the North West mountains leads you to the next famous cultural destination in Northern Vietnam, Sapa.

Sapa is a popular relaxing hilly land located in Lao Cai province. There are five other minority groups that share the same neighbor with the Vietnamese Kinh people.

Amongst those, the H’mong and Red Dao indigenous people are the two most populous groups in the city. Each of which is a separate “kingdom” whose culture, profession and costumes bear a contrast to the others.

2.1- The Black H’mong

Making up 53% of the population, the Black H’mong is mostly the representative cultural symbol in Sapa. You can tell them apart with their green and purple outfits, on which the big patterns are embroidered on the collar and belt.

If you want to visit the tribal villages where the H’mong settle down, remember to follow the trails to the hamlets of Cat Cat – San Sa Ho, Sa Pa, Lao Chai, Seo Mi Ty, and Giang Phinh.

Boasting the techniques of planting rice from Southern China, the Black H’mong has long been “crafting” the mountain slopes into the spectacular terraced fields.

2.2- The Red Dao

Being the second biggest population in Sapa, the Red Dao people plant corn, rice, and cardamom down the valley and down the sides of the hills.

They’re scattered throughout the hamlets of Ho, Nam Sai, Thanh Phu. These are known to be the flat grounds cracked with a system of rivers and streams, where the aquaculture and rice plantation are believed to result in an abundant harvest.

Visitors in Hanoi usually choose Sapa as their immediate trip up North due to such a huge reputation this city owns.

Your memories to Sapa would be filled with the exotic cuisine, the colorful costumes of the ethnic ladies and the mystic cultural rituals in the daily life of the tribes.

Ninh Binh – The 10th Century Capital of Feudal Vietnam

Making a farewell to Sapa and leaving for Ninh Binh, a newly emerging cultural destination in the Southeast of Hanoi, you will be welcomed to the former capital during the 10th century of the Dinh, Le and Ly dynasties of ancient Vietnam.

Ninh Binh is an ancient land which is regarded as “The Little Vietnam” since it is composed of most of the major topography of the country: the delta, the mountains, the river, and the sea.

Ninh Binh is home to over 800 historical relics along with a wide diversity of stunning natural landscapes. Other than those, a huge collection of 114 traditional folk festivals are waiting for you to explore.

If asked to pick the best places to showcase the finest cultural essence of Ninh Binh, here is what we’ve got to recommend:

3.1- Phat Diem Cathedral

Commonly known as Phat Diem Stone Church, the Phat Diem Cathedral is a Catholic Church complex covering a 22-hectare-large ground in Kim Son District, Ninh Binh Province. This is one of the most breathtaking cathedrals all over Vietnam with its eclectic architectural style. This religious icon is considered to be the “Capital of Vietnamese Catholicism”.

3.2- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu is a special cultural-historical relic complex lying in the innermost of the Trang An Landscapes Complex. Its’ history expanded for over 1000 years, with the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital housing a huge number of historical relics through different dynasties.

Halong – Culture of the Serene Fishing Villages in the Heart of A UNESCO's Heritage

Without a doubt, Halong Bay is one of the most talked-about destinations in the North of Vietnam thanks to such a huge reputation granted by UNESCO.

Halong Bay is recognized as a World Natural Heritage thanks to the massive formation of 1969 limestone islands covering an area of 1553 square kilometers.

If the biggest feature in the beauty of Halong is the picturesque Bay itself, the second biggest specialty comes from the long-lasting aquaculture.

The aquaculture in Halong shines through the tranquil fishing villages sleeping hiddenly betwixt the giant limestone mountains and has been preserved by generations of the local fishermen. The most popular fishing villages here are Cua Van, Vung Vieng and Ba Hang.

Amongst those, Cua Van fishing village seems to be the most sought-after site greatly representing the image of a real cultural Vietnam . It can be seen as a spectacular man-made wonder housing an elegant and peaceful heritage-like beauty. The fishing life here in Halong cannot go without the related rituals and festivals, which includes the worshipping the God of Whale and the God of the Sea.

A culture trip here around these fishing villages also brings you closer to the day in the life of the local fishermen, a fascinating exploration into the mystic caves, a night off-shore catching squids and an overnight at a fisherman’s homestay.

Central Vietnam

If Hanoi is the cultural capital in the North, then Hue represents the Central land as a peaceful former capital, with a famous relic complex recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.

Hue was the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. It’s not hard to spot out the temples, houses, mausoleums, and palaces with a significant Oriental architecture that have long been worn out in time.

When the travel industry in Vietnam integrates with the world, Hue gradually became the “Festival City” of Vietnam, which was first held in 2000 and takes place every two years.

The Imperial City is a complex of 147 buildings built in several years under the rules of the first and second Nguyen Kings. This is the symbol of power and traditional Vietnamese architecture.

Within only a day wandering around the Hue Imperial City, you will get to feel the royal breeze behind the forbidden walls and learn about the rituals and customs once strictly applied by the royal family.

If the Imperial City and the system of mausoleums reflect a royal ambiance, then Thien Mu Pagoda depicts the religious beauty of the ancient capital.

The Thien Mu Pagoda was built during the 1600s under the rule of Lord Nguyen Hoang. A trip to Thien Mu Pagoda not only brings you to the best vista of the city but also reveals the mystic legend behind the building of the pagoda.

Quang Nam – Vestiage of A Long-lost Kingdom and Cultural Integration

The province of Quang Nam once belonged to a mighty Indian-influenced kingdom named Champa stretching along the lengthy coastal land in Central Vietnam.

Being situated by the ocean and granted with special sea topography, Quang Nam was once an important trading port and stop-over during the 17th and 18th centuries.

These periods of time mark the presence of a great integration formed by the Chinese, Spanish, Dutch, Portuguese, French, and the Japanese.

Because of such, your exploration in Quang Nam will take you to the abandoned ruins of the Champa temples, which shows the beauty of an Indian-influenced culture, and Hoian Old Quarter, a typical Oriental vibe.

These two sites are both UNESCO heritages, which make Quang Nam even more worthwhile for your trip.

The My Son Holy Land houses over 70 ancient religious temples firstly constructed in the 4th century. They were used as the holy sites where the royal Champa families and practitioners offered prayers to the deities and Gods. Whereas, some of the other buildings were constructed as tombs and mausoleums.

Hoian Old Quarter is famous for being an ancient town where the rustic yellow-walled tubed buildings line up. The town was built and developed by the Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese in which the Chinese architecture is the main theme throughout the whole site.

Lying behind these walls are various traditional handicraft villages. They are still playing an essential role in the economy of the town as well as being the interesting attractions for travelers.

The most sought-after destinations are the Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Tra Que Herb Village, and Kim Bong Carpentry Village.

Central Highlands – A Private World of the Central Mountainous Ethnic Dwellers

If Sapa is where you can fully explore the days in the life of the tribal indigenous in Northwestern Vietnam, then the Central Highlands is that one section that gives you an akin experience with a more colorful and distinctive picture.

Central Highlands , or Tay Nguyen in Vietnamese, is not a single high land but a group of multiple highlands sitting next to one another. The whole region expands on five different provinces: Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, and Lam Dong.

The culture in Central Highlands is diverse and vibrant, which is evident through 18 various ethnic groups. They have contributed a giant collection of poems, stories, and songs through words of mouth.

Other than these, the Space of Gong Culture and the archive of colorful and vivid festivals are other features that make Tay Nguyen an outstanding cultural destination in Vietnam .

All of these take root from the special terraced agriculture, which is a significant contrast against the one applied by the citizens from the lower land – deltas.

The Space of Gong Culture is the most recognizable form of culture listed by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It plays a crucial part in the spiritual life of tribes, which connects the voice of human with the deities in the back of the mind of the indigenous.

These gongs are played in most of the important cultural rituals, ceremonies, and festivals, such as the Buffalo Sacrifice Festival, Village Land Praying Festival, Harvest Festival, Gong Festival, and Elephant Race Festival.

Southern Vietnam

Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City , is such a young and modern city born and raised for roughly over 300 years. As a result, many people perceive that there’s no such thing as a “traditional culture” that Saigon has obtained.

However, the culture of Saigon does not simply come from a long-lasting history. Saigonese culture is a culture of integration and development, which makes it a significant metropolis and also a heaven of all kinds of cuisine worldwide.

If asked to pick one thing that represents Saigonese culture, food definitely comes on top. Saigon food culture was initially influenced by the French, which is now seen through the iconic Banh Mi followed by a sip of coffee with condensed milk.

With just a short walk along downtown, you can easily catch sight of a street vendor selling a smoky savory noodle soup where people line up on the pavement waiting to enjoy.

Sea snails, noodles, rice papers, broken rice, spring rolls and many more are other popular street food waiting to blow your mind.

These are staple daily food, yet they have a magical temptation that any Saigon locals would love to have each day.

The culture of eating in Saigon started by the sidewalks on the streets, which is now one of the must-do experiences for beginners travelling to Saigon, street food.

A night food tour like that for 3 to 4 hours is a typical nightlife activity that gives you a closer look at the real food culture in Saigon.

Apart from the tasty street food, Saigon is home to various international cuisines. You can easily find a decent restaurant serving Chinese Dim Sum, Indian curry, English tea or Japanese sushi when traveling to Saigon.

Can Tho – Where the Exiles Preserve a 300-year Wetland Civilization

Can Tho is regarded as the “capital of the Mekong Delta”. It is of the five municipalities in Vietnam and a typical trading center of the Mekong wetland.

The beauty of Can Tho City comes from the immense network of rivers, which is best displayed through the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, a sensational tourist attraction in Can Tho.

Cai Rang is one of the largest floating markets across the Mekong Delta. The culture of trading on the surface of the rivers started hundreds of years ago when the immigrants from Central Vietnam rushed to the Southern land seeking a new and better future.

300 years ago, this gigantic delta was filled with scattered dense forests, with swamps and muddy roads in between.

Trading and moving up and down the length of the rivers was hence a must, and Cai Rang Floating Market was then born as a vivid witness of such lively and exceptional culture of the Mekong dwellers.

Other than that, the shady tempting orchards are the next big thing that draws an outstanding attractiveness for this city. Over here, almost any kind of Southern tropical fruits are available.

The most famous orchards that should be on your bucket list are My Khanh, Phong Dien, and Tay Do. Get ready to indulge in the utmost relaxation under the shades of the tropical trees, pick the freshest fruits with your bare hands and enjoy a memorable trip with your family.

Tra Vinh – The "Holy Land" of the Khmer Cambodian

Located 130 kilometers away from Saigon to the South, Tra Vinh is a Khmer-influenced locality that has witnessed a harmonious life of the Khmer and Chinese.

Tra Vinh is a “sanctuary” of the glamorous pre-sectarian Buddhist temples that usually lie in the center of the flat spacious ground. Surrounding those pagodas are multiple hamlets and villages where the Khmer citizens have long settled down.

Tra Vinh is home to more than 140 Khmer temples, which have been constructed throughout different eras. Each of which bears a congenial Brahmanism and Buddism styles, which can be seen from the illustration of Nagar, Garuda, Gods, and fairies.

Due to the cordial neighbor of the three different races, the culture and religions here in Tra Vinh hence showcases an attractive fusion, in which the Khmer tradition is still taking over as the main facade.

Apart from the distinctive Cambodian-influenced culinary, the Khmer culture is well reflected by a number of unique festivals held in various points of time. Most of them mirror the agricultural life, such as Chol Chnam Thmay – Khmer New Year, Ok-Om-Bok – Moon Festival, Sene Đôl-ta – Ancestor Worshipping and a lot more.

The last city in the list belongs to an off-beaten destination situated along the Vietnam-Cambodia border, Chau Doc, An Giang Province.

This symbolic locality printed the footsteps of the Vietnamese forefathers during the reclamation of Vietnam’s ending cape 300 years ago.

Talking about Chau Doc , the local travelers think of the alluvial-rich rivers and lakes where hundreds of fishermen live their life with the waves. The Chau Doc fishing village was then born and hence expanded further to the rest of the Mekong Delta.

Visiting this fishing village is one of the best ways to explore Chau Doc to the fullest. Apparently, boating is the only method to travel around the village, as all of the floating houses are on the surface of the river.

Chau Doc – A Sanctuary of Religion and Aquaculture

Religion is another remarkable that makes up another side of Chau Doc’s culture.

Tay An Pagoda is the first Buddhist temples in Vietnam that blends the traditional Vietnamese and Indian architectures into a religious building. The pagoda houses more than 200 wood-made statues carved with sharp and sophisticated designs following the 19th-century characteristic.

Last but not least, the culture of Chau Doc natives stands out through the Khmer gastronomy, in which the Khmer dwellers are famous for their techniques of creating savory dishes from dried fish.

If you have long been seeking a collective list of top cultural destinations in Vietnam , bookmark this article right now. These 11 top destinations from the North to the South paints the finest picture that illustrates the real Vietnam, which explains everything that ever happened to this S-shaped country for the past 4000 years.

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There are so many insightful tours, amazing dishes and fun activities in Vietnam, you’ll never run out of interesting things to do. Here are some handpicked ideas to get you started.

Fabulous Food

If there’s one characteristic that unites Vietnamese food, it’s freshness. Pass by any Vietnamese market, you'll be amazed by the abundance of the sea and soil: feathery herbs, plump vegetables and flapping-fresh proteins. Freshness is where the fun begins. Vietnamese cooks enhance beautiful ingredients with aromatic herbs and contrasting textures for maximum delight. Simply put, it's one of the world’s healthiest and most delicious cuisines.

striking scenery

Vietnam is chock-full of forested peaks, thundering waterfalls, and breezy coastline, so it’s no wonder the country is luring more and more outdoor enthusiasts. With so many options at your fingertips, you may need a second (or third) trip to take it all in. And while there are plenty of pulse-pounding activities, Vietnam also presents more leisurely ways to enjoy its vast natural attractions.

timeless culture

In a country like Vietnam, the word ‘culture’ has a thousand meanings. It might mean the red and gold gilded doors of the Hue Citadel, or the tin-filter drip coffee served on every street corner. It might mean the sensitive watercolours hanging in a contemporary gallery, or the throaty cry of Ca Trù sung poetry. It could even encompass the embroidered costumes of the Flower Hmong, or the subtle lines of the áo dài. Past and present, hand-in-hand, are what makes Vietnamese culture so compelling.

changing cities

Spend a few days in its urban centres, and you'll see why so many travellers are taken with Vietnam's captivating energy. In the streets and you'll encounter chaotic markets and colonial-era cafes, sparkling malls, hip rooftop lounges, and tidy boutiques. At least once in your stay, do as the locals do and enjoy an evening of barbecue and beer on the sidewalk, or chat over a cup of tea in the shade of a city park.

blissful beaches

Vietnam is a country with a long, curving coastline. Scattered offshore are dozens of beautiful islets, teeming with sea life and blessed with pristine shores. Vietnam’s coastal cities are packed with activities and on-the-water adventures, while its fishing villages still hold their simple, seaside charms. Wherever you choose, chilled coconuts, basket boats, and seafood dinners are guaranteed.

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Parceled into 58 provinces, cities and 5 main cities, Vietnam boasts 3,260 km of coastland and more than 3,000 large and small islands. Vietnam is a tropical country with lots of rivers, lakes, deltas, and wetlands. Vietnam is also known for its mountainous regions—from the North to the South and including the much-ballyhooed, Central Highlands.
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Trek from Sapa to Cat Cat Village + waterfalls. Trek from Sapa to Ylinh Ho, Lao Chai Ta Van. Trek from Sapa to Ta Van to Ancient rocks, Cloud bridge (Cau May) Trek from Topas Eco-lodge to Thanh Kim, Thanh Phu. Trekking in Sapa is one of the most popular activities for tourists visiting Vietnam.
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13. Mysterious places for adventurers. 14. One of the fastest-growing countries in Asia. 15. Various options of souvenirs to take home. 1. Vietnam is a safe destination. I am sure that before you decide on a destination for a vacation, the first thing you should evaluate is the safety of that destination.
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1. Hue - Footsteps of the Last Monarchy. If Hanoi is the cultural capital in the North, then Hue represents the Central land as a peaceful former capital, with a famous relic complex recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. Hue was the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945.
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The 15 best things you can do in Vietnam in 2024

1. Embrace past and future Vietnam in historic Hanoi

2. Find your own island in the sun in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

3. Get your fill of imperial cuisine in handsome Hue

4. Meet Vietnam’s imperial leaders in the Hue tombs

5. Learn to make soups, stir-fries and salads on a cooking course

6. Unravel Vietnam’s complex religious history in My Son

7. Visit the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

8. Rumble through the highlands by motorcycle

9. See the American War through Vietnamese eyes

10. Visit villages in the "Asian Alps"

11. Find a perfect cup of coffee in the Central Highlands

12. Enter the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha

13. Walk with the ghosts of French Indochina in Ho Chi Minh City

14. Bask on beautiful beaches

15. Float on the Mekong Delta

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Map of Places to Visit in Vietnam

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