Vietnam is a compelling land of spectacular natural beauty, cultural complexities, dynamic megacities and hill-tribe villages. Unsurprisingly, from a country so long and narrow, there’s plenty of variety on offer; emerald rice fields, white-sand beaches, craggy mountains, vast caves and friendly minority communities – with elaborate tribal costumes and age-old customs. Travel to Vietnam and you’ll be met with warmth and curiosity. Coupled with some of the region’s most nuanced cuisine, it’s easy to see why Vietnam is one of South-East Asia’s must-visit destinations.
Here are the 10 best places to visit in Vietnam.
No. 10 - Da Lat
Hidden away in the Central Highlands, the tranquil picturesque mountain town of Da Lat offers an alternative Vietnam experience. The weather is spring-like instead of tropical hot, the town is dotted with French-colonial villas rather than socialist architecture, and the surrounding farms cultivate strawberries, coffee and flowers, instead of rice.
Da Lat’s countryside charm attracts couples, wellness seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts who are keen to experience its beautiful mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls. As well as the natural beauty spots, there are also plenty of other things to keep you busy; explore downtown Da Lat, walk around the romantic Xuan Huong Lake, visit Truc Lam pagoda using the cable car, or take a historical train to Trai Mat village.
No. 9 - Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and one of the most populous cities in Southeast Asia. It is located in the southern region of Vietnam and is the economic and cultural centre of the country. The city has a rich history and is named after the famous Vietnamese revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh.
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and dynamic city, known for its bustling streets, street food, and vibrant nightlife. It is a mix of old and new, with colonial-era buildings and traditional markets existing alongside modern skyscrapers and shopping malls. The city is also home to many museums, temples, and historical sites, including the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum, which offer a glimpse into the country's past.
No. 8 - Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a region in southern Vietnam that is defined by the Mekong River and its numerous tributaries. It is a vast and fertile delta that is known for its lush landscapes, abundant agriculture, and vibrant river life. The region covers an area of around 40,000 square kilometres and is home to more than 20 million people, many of whom make their livelihoods from fishing and farming.
The Mekong Delta is often referred to as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam due to its fertile soils and abundant rainfall, which support a wide range of crops, including rice, fruit, and vegetables. The region is also known for its picturesque floating markets, where locals trade goods from their boats, as well as its charming traditional villages and bustling towns.
One of the most unique features of the Mekong Delta is its intricate network of waterways, which wind their way through the region and serve as the main means of transportation for locals. Visitors can take a boat trip through the delta to experience its beauty and to see the many local communities that are sustained by its waters.
In recent years, the Mekong Delta has become a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to see rural Vietnam and to experience its rich culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in agriculture, river life, or just want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Mekong Delta is a must-visit destination in Vietnam.
No. 7 - Ha Giang
Ha Giang is a province in the northeast region of Vietnam, located along the Chinese border. Ha Giang is known for its stunning landscapes and rugged, mountainous terrain, including the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass, which is considered one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Vietnam.
One of the most popular activities in Ha Giang is trekking. Visitors can explore the province's many scenic trails, including the trek to the famous Lung Cu Flag Tower, which is located at the northernmost point of Vietnam. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Ha Giang is also known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong, Dao, and Tay, who have their own unique cultures and traditions. Visitors can visit local villages, where they can learn about the customs and traditions of the province's many ethnic groups. The province is also home to several festivals, including the Ha Giang Stone Plate Festival and the Ha Giang Peach Blossom Festival, which showcase the vibrant culture and traditions of the region.
No. 6 - Nha Trang
Nha Trang is a coastal city in south-central Vietnam, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It is located on a stunning bay and is surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for both local and international tourists.
Nha Trang is home to a long and wide stretch of sandy beach, which is lined with a promenade and dotted with numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants. The city is also a hub for water-based activities, including swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving, and is famous for its many offshore islands, which are home to lush vegetation, coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
Nha Trang is home to a wealth of historical sites and landmarks, including the Po Nagar Cham Towers, a temple complex that dates back to the 8th century, and the Long Son Pagoda, which is one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in the region.
Nha Trang is also a popular destination for those seeking wellness and relaxation, with numerous spas and hot springs offering treatments and services to help visitors unwind and rejuvenate. The city has a laid-back vibe and is known for its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and nightlife.
No. 5 - Sa Pa
Sa Pa is a small town located in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains in northwest Vietnam. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes, cool climate, and diverse ethnic minority communities.
Sa Pa is surrounded by terraced rice paddies, steep mountains, and rolling hills, making it a popular destination for trekking and hiking. Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside, visit local villages, and experience the unique cultures and traditions of the various ethnic minority groups that call the area home. Some of the most well-known ethnic groups in the area include the Hmong, Dao, and Giay, each with their own unique customs, dress, and cuisine.
The town of Sa Pa itself is small and compact, with a mix of traditional and modern buildings. It is a hub for trekking and outdoor activities, with many tour operators offering trips into the surrounding countryside. There are also many shops, cafes, and restaurants in the town, as well as cultural and historical sites, such as the Sa Pa Stone Church, which is one of the oldest and most famous landmarks in the area.
No. 4 - Hue
Hue is a city in central Vietnam that was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and stunning natural beauty.
Hue was once a major political, cultural, and religious centre in Vietnam, and it still retains much of its traditional character and historical significance. The city is surrounded by a moat and wall, and within these walls lies the Imperial City, which was the home of the Nguyen emperors and their court. Today, the Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the city's most popular tourist attractions.
Hue is also known for its abundance of temples, pagodas, and tombs, which are scattered throughout the city and its surrounding countryside. Some of the most famous sites include the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Tu Duc Tomb, and the Minh Mang Tomb, each of which is a testament to the city's rich cultural and religious history.
There are also many scenic spots to explore, including the Perfume River, the surrounding hills and mountains, and the beaches along the coast.
No. 3 - Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is one of the oldest cities in Southeast Asia. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and vibrant atmosphere.
Hanoi is a city of contrasts, with a mix of traditional and modern architecture, bustling street markets, and tranquil temples and pagodas. One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which is a tribute to the late Vietnamese leader and one of the country's most visited sites. Other historical sites in Hanoi include the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and the Hanoi Citadel, each of which offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural and historical past.
Hanoi is renowned for its street food, with many street stalls and vendors offering a wide variety of local specialties and dishes. The city is famous for its pho, a traditional noodle soup, as well as its many other delicious street foods, such as banh mi, bun cha, and spring rolls.
Hanoi is also a modern city with a lively atmosphere, with many bars, cafes, and shops to explore. The city is a hub for culture and the arts, with many museums, galleries, and theatres showcasing the best of Vietnamese art, music, and film.
No. 2 - Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a stunning seascape located in the Gulf of Tonkin in northeastern Vietnam. It is one of the country's most famous and popular tourist destinations, known for its breathtaking beauty, unique geography, and rich cultural heritage.
Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to thousands of towering limestone islands and islets, many of which are covered in lush vegetation and dotted with hidden caves and grottos. The seascape is a popular destination for boat tours, which allow visitors to explore the bay's many hidden wonders and experience its unique beauty.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Halong Bay is also rich in cultural heritage, with many legends and myths associated with the area. The local people have lived in the bay for generations and have a deep connection to the land and sea, with many traditional fishing and boat-building communities still in existence today.
Visitors to Halong Bay can explore the surrounding islands, visit local villages, and participate in a variety of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing. The bay is also home to many luxury resorts and spas, offering visitors the chance to relax and unwind in one of the world's most stunning landscapes.
No.1 - Da Nang
Da Nang is a coastal city in central Vietnam and is known for its stunning beaches, bustling city centre, and rich cultural heritage.
The city is located on the banks of the Han River and is surrounded by scenic mountains and rolling hills, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and beach-going. Da Nang is also home to many luxury resorts and spas, offering visitors the chance to relax and unwind in a beautiful coastal setting.
Da Nang boasts many historical sites and landmarks to explore. Some of the city's most famous attractions include the Cham Museum, which showcases the art and culture of the ancient Cham civilization, and the Marble Mountains, a series of five marble and limestone hills that are considered a spiritual and cultural centre for the local people.
Da Nang is also a modern and vibrant city, with a thriving arts scene, many restaurants and cafes, and a lively nightlife. The city is also a hub for transportation, with a large airport and several major highways connecting it to other parts of Vietnam.
Thanks for reading! We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best places to visit in Vietnam. We'd love to hear your feedback in the comments and do let us know your favourite places to visit in Vietnam.
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