vietnam tourism top 10

17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

1. Halong Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in 2022

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

1. Ha Long Bay

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

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

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

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

2. Ninh Binh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Nha Trang

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

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

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

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

8. Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10 Best Tourist Attractions In Vietnam You Have To See

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

The beauty of Hoi An Old Town is well renowned

1. Hoi An’s Ancient Town

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

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

The old kingdom in ruins

2. My Son Cham Towers

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

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

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

Palace in the noisy city center

3. HCMC’s Independence Palace & War Remnants Museum

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

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

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

An entrance to the tunnel

4. Cu Chi Tunnels

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

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

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

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

Vendors at work

5. Mekong Delta’s floating markets

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

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

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

A forbidden city of Nguyen Dynasty

6. Complex of Hué Monuments

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

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

Fish farms in Halong Bay

7. Halong & Lan Ha Bay

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

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

Spectacular site in Ninh Binh Province

8. Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex

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

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

Flower vendors are always present in the Old Quarter

9. Hanoi’s Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake

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

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

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

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

Hanoi is the best place to watch the performance

10. Vietnamese Water Puppets

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

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

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

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

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

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

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

25. Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue

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

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

24. Con Dao Islands

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

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

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

23. Marble Mountains

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

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

22. Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon

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

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

21. Tam Coc

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

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

20. My Khe Beach

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

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

19. Hang Son Doong Cave

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

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

18. Temple of Literature in Hanoi

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

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

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

17. Bac Ha Market

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

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

16. Cham Islands

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

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

15. Hang Nga’s Guesthouse in Da Lat

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

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

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

14. Cao Dai Temple

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

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

13. Imperial Citadel in Hue

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Phong Nha Caves

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

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

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

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

10. Nha Trang

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

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

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

9. Cu Chi Tunnels

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

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

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

8. Mekong Delta

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

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

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

7. Sand Dunes in Mui Ne

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

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

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

6. Terraced Rice Fields In Sapa

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

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

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

5. Phu Quoc

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

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

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

4. Hoi An Ancient Town

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

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

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

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

3. Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi

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

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

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

2. Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue

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

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

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

1. Ha Long Bay

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

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

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

Map of Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

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Reader interactions.

November 8, 2017 at 6:22 pm

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

June 10, 2017 at 3:02 am

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

May 21, 2017 at 11:54 pm

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

May 10, 2017 at 1:25 am

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

April 17, 2017 at 3:09 am

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

March 28, 2017 at 7:47 am

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

January 17, 2017 at 7:16 am

great information, thanks!

November 25, 2015 at 1:04 am

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

June 11, 2015 at 10:43 pm

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

April 12, 2015 at 9:20 am

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

February 3, 2015 at 7:25 pm

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

December 26, 2014 at 4:39 am

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

November 6, 2014 at 12:40 pm

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

October 24, 2014 at 11:23 pm

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

October 24, 2014 at 6:34 pm

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

October 22, 2014 at 8:19 am

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

June 23, 2014 at 6:47 pm

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

June 10, 2014 at 6:12 am

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

May 8, 2014 at 8:47 am

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

April 23, 2014 at 1:38 am

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

March 9, 2014 at 3:22 am

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

February 6, 2014 at 2:12 am

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

January 27, 2014 at 7:15 am

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

January 20, 2014 at 9:08 am

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

November 25, 2013 at 1:53 am

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

November 10, 2013 at 10:51 pm

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

November 5, 2013 at 6:36 am

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

November 3, 2013 at 7:24 pm

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

July 7, 2013 at 4:07 am

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

May 6, 2013 at 3:10 pm

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

October 16, 2012 at 1:42 am

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

September 12, 2012 at 4:38 pm

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

July 14, 2012 at 1:20 pm

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

January 13, 2011 at 4:22 pm

Great post and useful information! Thanks!

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Best places to visit in Vietnam: top 12 destinations

Due to its long coastline filled with diverse landscapes, distinct cultures, and great food, Vietnam is one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia for both natural and cultural lovers. Come and get lost in a quaint Hanoi , revel in the scenic mountains of Ha Long Bay , Ninh Binh or Sapa in the north, enjoy alluring cultural heritages of Hue and  Hoi An in the central, pump yourself up in bustling Ho Chi Minh  (Saigon) and immerse in the beautiful nature of Mekong River Delta in the south. If beaches are what you’re looking for, Phu Quoc , Nha Trang , Mui Ne or Da Nang are just some of the most popular options.

In 2020, Sapa slips to the bottom of the list, mainly because of the many under construction. In contrast, the coastal alluring town of Hoi An becomes a must-see destination in Vietnam.

The peak time of the year to travel is from December to January, the first half of February, the second half of March and April. However, it’s possible to travel all year-round in this wonderful country of ethnic minorities and terraced rice fields. Check out the best time to travel to Vietnam in detail to fully enjoy your journey.

Just remember, during the 30th April (Reunification Day), 1st May (Labour Day), and 2nd September (Independence Day of Vietnam), domestic travel surges as these are public holidays in the country. Tourist attractions can be very crowded along with transportation and hotels booked out well in advance.

12. Sapa – The roof of Indochina

The frontier township of Sapa, located 1,500 m (4,900 ft.) above sea level in the northwest area of Vietnam, is the place to find jaw-dropping and unparalleled scenery. The steep of  O Quy Ho pass contrast with the deep, green Muong Hoa valleys  and terraced rice fields in Ta Phin village , with long winding roads weaving in and out of the hills. Throughout the region live a multitude of diverse, vibrant ethnic minority groups , such as the Hmong, Dao, Giay, and Tay to name only a few. The hill-tribe villages are hidden in bamboo forests, behind waterfalls, and within fertile valleys, making every town more beautiful than the last. The Roof of Indochina , Mount Fansipan , stands here at 3,143 m (10,300 ft.), offering a glimpse through the clouds and mist into the numerous valleys of North Vietnam and China.

Things to do

Recommended length of stay

Most travelers choose to spend 2 nights in Sapa. With 2 nights, you can explore the town and do trekking to hill-tribe villages and areas away from the central town. If you can manage to visit Sapa in the weekend, stay another day to attend Bac Ha market.

Time to visit

Sapa is beautiful year-round but there may be floods from June to September. If you wish to “date” with terraced fields, you should go in May – watering season or from the end of September to early October – ripe rice season.

Accommodation

Sapa offers accommodation for all tastes , from home stays in local minority villages to luxury hotels. Most properties are around the town itself within walking distance to the market, old church, and restaurants. The destination tends to be busy on weekends and quiet during the week due to heavy influx of domestic travellers. So when visiting the area, save money by scheduling your stay during the week or in months other than May, June, July and December.

Sapa serves unique dishes of local people in minority villages like Thang Co (horse soup), Com Lam (bamboo sticky rice), free-range pig, salmon hot pot, dried buffalo meat and many Asian or Western ones as well.

Transportation

Destinations in Sapa are not far away from each other, so you can rent a motorbike at the price of around USD 5 per day. Cable car in a round trip to Fansipan costs USD 26 per adult and USD 18 per child.

How to get to Sapa

Hanoi – Sapa: 315 km

The only options are bus or train. Due to the rough road, it will take about 5 hours on the bus from Hanoi to Sapa. There are two options for the train to Sapa. The traditional trains with soft seat and soft sleeper. You need to spend 8 hours on the train and then catch a bus because the train only stops at Lao Cai station (35 km away from Sapa). For a better traveling experience, try privately-run sleeper cabin for which you pay 8 – 12 USD more.

Best places to go near Sapa

11. mui ne – a warm sandy coastal town.

Located in Phan Thiet city, Mui Ne is a coastal fishing town in southern Vietnam, the perfect getaway from Ho Chi Minh City. Mui Ne Beach and Hon Rom island are one of the most favored destinations here. The coastline is filled with a string of beach resorts ranging from budget to pricey and chic. Popular for the numerous wind-surfing camps in the area, check out Mui Ne between October and April to try this adventurous sport. Other interesting activities include surfing the gigantic Red sand dunes outside the city with sandboards and ATVs or taking a half-day gentle walk through the charming Fairy Stream Canyon.

Thanks to its relatively small size, 2 to 3 days is enough to enjoy the best things Mui Ne has to offer.

From December to April is the best time to travel to. Mui Ne is one of the localities with the lowest rainfall in Vietnam.

A hot destination for active travellers, Mui Ne has a fair range of hotels to choose from. The destination is visited year-round, thus hotel rates are quite stable. Although it is busier in the summer due to domestic tourists (May to August), you can always find a room with good value in Mui Ne any time of the year.

Food in Mui Ne is mainly seafood due to its location. This place is also famous for its trademark fish sauce. “Mai” fish salad and Grilled squid teeth are must-try dishes, which make up the uniqueness of Mui Ne cuisine.

If you are not interested in local food, there are a handful of western restaurants. Don’t expect fine dining in this town but for sure you can have good meals while staying here.

Banh quai vac

Taxi, private car, motorbike

Private car is great option if you are travel in group of 4 or more.

How to get to Mui Ne

Air There is no airport in Mui Ne or Phan Thiet city. You can fly to Da Lat (Lien Khuong Airport) or Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport), then continue to Mui Ne by road.

Bus or Train From Ho Chi Minh City, you can either take the train or bus to get to Mui Ne. The distance of 218 km takes you about 5 hours. The closest train station is in Phan Thiet city from where you continue by bus to Mui Ne (1 hour). The bus will drop you off in the center of Mui Ne.

Best places to go near Mui Ne

10. phu quoc – vietnam’s island paradise.

Phu Quoc is a tropical island , 40 kilometers away from the south coast of Vietnam, in the Gulf of Thailand. With a list of sandy palm-fringed beaches and turquoise water as Sao Beach, Long Beach and Khem Beach , these islands are one of the best beach destinations in Vietnam. The northern part of Phu Quoc is a part of a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve while the southern coastline is filled with luxury resorts, funky bars, and quaint cafes. Phu Quoc is also famous as the top producer of fish sauce – an essential spice in Vietnamese cuisine.

There is a bunch of activities on this paradise island. Do hiking in the Phu Quoc National Park and look out for wildlife. Tour the fish sauce factory and local Ham Ninh fishing villages . Dive the offshore coral reefs, kayak in the bays, watch the romantic sunset, or just lounge on the beach, followed by a fresh seafood dinner.

A 4-day trip is perfect for Phu Quoc. Use one day to explore the national park and one day for the local village, temples. Spend two days left to enjoy the beach. If you just want to relax on the beach, two days should be enough.

Feel free to enjoy this tropical paradise almost year-round except the rainy season from July to September.

Phu Quoc is home to some of the most beautiful beach resorts in Vietnam (JW Marriott, Intercontinental..). A vast bulk of hotels and resorts in Phu Quoc is on Long Beach or Bai Dai in the local language. You can find everything here, from budget hostel to 5-star beachfront resorts. If you want a place to stay away from the tourist hub but still easily pop into town, Bai Ong is the ticket.

Phu Quoc has been a hot destination for both domestic and international tourists. Therefore, food and beverage service is well developed. You can easily find local restaurants as well as western-style restaurants here. Being an island, seafood is no doubt the most typical food in Phu Quoc. Traveler can enjoy fresh seafood at a very affordable price. If you have a local guide, tell them to take you to buy seafood from local fishermen. They offer the freshest goods at a very good price. Some of the dishes you should try when traveling Phu Quoc: Banh Canh (fish and pork noodle soup), Bun quay (shrimp noodle soup), Goi ca mai (raw herring salad).

Motorbike, bike, bus, private car, taxi, electric cart.

Motorbike is a favorite vehicle to explore this island, but when it’s rain, you should consider a car or taxi instead. The average rental fee for motorbike is 150,000 – 200,000 vnd/day ($6.5 – $10). The electric cart is a new service for tourists, which is opened in late 2018. The route pass through most of the famous attractions in Phu Quoc.

How to get to Phu Quoc

Air Opened in 2012, Phu Quoc international airport is 9 km from the island center (Duong Dong town). The airport serves domestics flight from/to Can Tho, Da Nang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can fly to Phu Quoc in 1 hour.

Bus + Boat Expect to spend around 8 – 10 hours if you choose this type of transportation. First, take the bus to Rach Gia Habor, which takes you 6 hours. Catch the ferry to Phu Quoc island (2.5 hours)

Best places to go near Phu Quoc

9. nha trang – a coastal resort city.

The coastal resort city of Nha Trang is another gem of Vietnam’s central region. The white sand beaches , shimmering turquoise waters , and luxury accommodation of the lux Ninh Van Bay rival that of Thailand is not only the landscape but hospitality. Come for the world-class beaches and stay for the eclectic cuisine, comprised of fresh seafood and interesting mixes like Bun Cha Ca, a rice noodle dish with grilled fish and jellyfish. It is also possible to discover the legacy of the Champa Kingdom , descendants of seafaring settlers who reached the Southeast Asia mainland from modern-day Borneo and Sumatra. The impact on modern society can be seen and felt at Po Nagar , a Cham-styled temple tower with intricate carvings. The Buddhist Pagoda of Long Son also showcases the heritage of Vietnamese settlers in the region.

Cheap seafood, beautiful beaches, exotic nightlife, three days in Nha Trang is the right amount of time to enjoy all of this.

This coastal town is alluring from December to April. The rainy season is from October to November.

One of the biggest beach destinations in Vietnam, Nha Trang is a prime beach vacation choice for many tourists and locals. Nha Trang has a wide range of hotels and resorts including many luxury brands such as Amanoi and Six Senses, found outside of the city in secluded bays. At the same time, budget accommodation is very affordable, usually found on the main drag of Tran Phu Street inside the city. Nha Trang is super busy during the summer (May to August) and between December to March. Book your room early when it comes to national holidays such as the Lunar New Year, Christmas, and Labour Day.

Nha Trang serves both diversified kinds of seafood and a wide range of international restaurants.

Private car, taxi, motorcycle, bicycle.

Depending on the model (mountain or city bike), bicycle daily rentals are priced between USD 4 and USD 6. The prices for renting a motorcycle are from USD 5 to USD 7.

How to get to Nha Trang

Da Nang – Nha Trang: 533 km Hanoi – Nha Trang: 1291 km Ho Chi Minh – Nha Trang: 433 km

Air Cam Ranh international airport serves Nha Trang area with domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, the airport is 30 km south of the city.

Train There are trains line connecting Nha Trang and other major destinations like Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, Hue, Hanoi. The best way to buy tickets is to visit the station in person in advance. You can also buy them through a hotel/travel agency with an extra for commission.

Best places to go near Nha Trang

8. da nang – a coastal resort city.

Da Nang, from a transit point, has redefined itself into a worthy destination of Vietnam. Boasting long coastline with beautiful beaches and recently incredible bridges, Da Nang definitely worth a visit. Da Nang is among a few destinations that can offer both beach and mountain. Some of the must-see attractions are My Khe beach , Non Nuoc beach , Son Tra Peninsula , Marble Mountains , Ba Na Hills , Golden Bridge , The world cultural heritage My Son , Linh Ung pagoda . You can find excellent local street food as well as good western restaurants here. The city is located a 40 – minute drive from Hoi An and 2 – hour from Hue, which are both notable destinations.

Without taking day trips to neighbor destinations, the city of Da Nang is perfect for a 2-day getaway.

The best time to visit Da Nang is from November to April. March and April are the most exquisite months which are warm and dry, perfect for both beach activities and mountain trekking. Fireworks festivals are usually organized from May to July. There may be storms in November.

Da Nang witnesses a construction boom in tourist accommodation. Hotels and resorts spring up every day, giving travelers many choices from budget hotels to high-end properties. You can find luxury, world-class resorts in Da Nang, such as Intercontinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort or Pullman resort. Midrange hotels with a set of blocks close to the beach have the price from $40 per night. For luxury accommodation, it is from $100-200 each night. These often offer a beachfront location with a private beach and sea-view pool. Expect to pay up to $1000 each night if you truly want to make a splash in the private infinity pool of your multi-bedroom villa.

The local specialty is a must-try when you are traveling Da Nang. Mít trộn (mixed jackfruit), ốc hút (fried snails with lemongrass and chili), Chè xoa xoa hạt lựu (a type of sweet food), Bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo (Pork rice paper rolls) are some of the most famous local dishes in Da Nang. You can also find the famous specialty of Hoi An here in Da Nang – Quang noodle. If local food doesn’t suit your taste, you can easily find good western-style restaurants or Chinese, Korean, or Japanese food.

Motorbike, bike, bus, private car, taxi, electric cart, cyclo.

Use ride-hailing apps instead of the traditional taxi when traveling a short distance to save money. Grab is the most popular ride-hailing app. Cyclo is also an excellent way to explore the city. Cyclo service in Da Nang is professional compared to other destinations. It costs around $5/hour. The two electric cart routes run along the beachside road, passing by most of the iconic attractions.

How to get to Da Nang

Air Da Nang International Airport is in the city center with daily flights connecting the city with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat, Can Tho.

Train Da Nang train station is 5 km from the city center. The North to South train line has a stop in Da Nang, which allows you to travel Da Nang from all stations throughout Vietnam. There are also local train lines that connect Da Nang with Quang Binh, Quy Nhon, …

Bus Da Nang bus station is one of the busiest stations in Vietnam. There are numerous departures for northern and southern destinations every day.

Best places to go near Da Nang

7. mekong river delta – a vast labyrinth of rivers.

The Mekong Delta is a floating world made up of a vast maze of rivers and fertile, alluvial soil in southern Vietnam. Referred to as Dong Bang Song Cuu Long in Vietnamese, or the river delta of nine dragons, this haven for l ush rice paddies, wildlife, and tropical fruits and vegetables is a biological treasure trove of the world. Some of the most famous attractions in the region are Cai Rang, Cai Be floating market, Tram Chim national park, Tra Su Mangrove Forest, Sam Moutain . The shimmering Khmer Pagodas (Vinh Trang pagoda) of the largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho , showcase a proud Vietnamese and Cambodian heritage. In addition, to the natural wonder of the area, the culinary delights abound in regional delicacies such as Lau Mam, a hotpot with fermented fish, and Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese-styled crispy pancake. As much of the lifestyle in the area revolves around the river, many of the villages are often only accessible by canals and boat, creating the atmosphere of land frozen in Cochinchine time.

If you want a quick look of the floating market and local life, a one-day tour could be enough. Stay for 3 to 5 days to fully experience more attractions of Mekong Delta.

This floating maze is worthy-visited in any season of the year. Ripe rice seasons are in early April, late August and late November.

Accommodation facilities are not as developed in other regions of the country. Most international visitors who choose to stay in the Mekong Delta instead of day-tripping from Ho Chi Minh City spend the night on cruise  or in simple homestay . Most hotels cater to domestic guests with prices reflecting the local budget. A few boutique properties exist around My Tho and Can Tho but due to competition, fill-up quickly. If you wish to stay in one of these properties, book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Mekong Delta is lack of international dishes but serves flavorful ones like Hu tieu My Tho (My Tho noodle soup), Lau Mam (fish sauce hot pot), Dua Ben Tre (Ben Tre coconuts).

My Tho noodle soup

Ben Tre coconuts

Boat, bicycle.

It is an amazing experience to get on a boat ride along the small channels to admire the wildlife. You can also ride a bike around the smallest villages.

How to get to Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta: 193km Although the Mekong Delta has 12 different provinces, the most common route is to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho, which is home to the well-known Cai Rang floating market. Here are some suggestions for your 169-km-journey.

• Bus: It’s cheap, and there are many departures daily.
• Boat: An interesting way to travel and take a look at the local life on the riverside
• Airplane: Can Tho has an airport, so instead of sitting for 3 hours on the bus, you can shorten the traveling time with a 45-minute flight.
• Motorbike: If you like the feeling of immersing yourself in the scenery around, consider motorbike. It’s cheap and easy to rent one almost anywhere in Vietnam.

Best places to go near Mekong Delta

6. hue – the remains of feudalism.

Situated on the banks of the sleepy Perfume River , the imperial city and ancient feudal capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue, still retains much of its regal and grandeur of the days of old. Home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to the preservation of important historical attractions like the Imperial Citadel , Forbidden Purple City , and beautiful tombs of Emperor Ming Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh, Hue is the perfect place to start a journey into the ancient and recent history of not only central Vietnam, but the country as a whole. Feel the spirituality in Thien Mu Pagoda , brought to international attention during the Vietnam-American War. Dine on the exquisite and refined way of food preparation with the eponymous Bun Bo Hue , a type of spicy noodle and beef soup named after the city it was created in, and other classics like Bun Thit Nuong and Com Hen.

You should spend about two days in Hue, which give you enough time to visit the imperial citadel, tombs, and pagodas. If you keen on war history, spend one more day for DMZ tour. It will be a day trip from Hue.

From December to April, the weather in Hue is dry and cool, leaving ample time to enjoy the many historical attractions.. Most annual festivities are held in April. From late May to June is the time for heat waves with the temperature can reach over 40°C (104°F). Rainy season can occur in October and November.

Surprisingly cheaper than other destinations in Vietnam, Hue has lovely hotels and urban resorts around the legendary Perfume River. Although the choice is not as extensive as Hoi An or Da Nang, hotels in Hue are generally cheaper and offer a good value for money. Boutique accommodation with heritage rooms are priced between 35 – 75 USD per night, while stays along the pristine beaches of Lang Co start at 100 USD per night. Most hotels rent bikes free of charge to visit the charming city.

Hue is often credited with the creation of over 1000 dishes during the time of the Imperial Dynasties. The delicate mix of sweet and spicy flavours pairs nicely with the intricately prepared and styled meals. When in Hue, be sure to try the iconic Com Hen (clam rice), Bun Bo Hue (Hue beef soup), Banh bot loc (chestnut starch cakes), Banh canh (thick noodle soup), Nem lui (Lemongrass skewers). Expect to pay between 2 – 4 USD for meals in local restaurants and 6 – 15 USD in nicer restaurants with wi-fi and beautiful garden settings.

Lemongrass skewers

Private car, taxi, motorcycle, bicycle, cyclo.

Transportation costs in Hue are not expensive. Private car or taxi are the best option. Traveling by cyclo within Hue City Centre or driving a motorcycle at a cost of around USD 5 per day like the locals is also a good choice.

How to get to Hue

Hue is easy to reach from other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam by air, train or private car.

• option 1: Take the flight from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to Hue
• option 2: Fly to Da Nang and take the chance to visit this amazing city. Travel to Hue by road

Train The north-south train line between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City has a stop in Hue. The rate varies depending on the speed of the train, type of seat/sleeping berth.

Best places to go near Hue

5. ninh binh – ha long bay on land.

The lush Red River Delta in northern Vietnam creates the dreamy landscape of Ninh Binh, often referred to as “ Ha Long Bay on land ”. Known for its karst mountains and hidden grottoes , cave temples , green valleys and shimmering rice fields , Ninh Binh is an incredible insight to the simple beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An Scenic Landscape complex and Tam Coc are best visited by rowing boat, while the Cuc Phuong National Park contains incredible vistas along its hiking trails. For an epic panoramic view of the river running through rice fields, climb the stairs to the top of Mua Cave . Nearby is the river gateway to Hoa Lu , the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. The largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam exists here, consisting of Bai Dinh and Bich Dong Pagoda, as well as Phat Diem Stone Cathedral .

2 days is the ideal time to discover highlights of Ninh Binh. However, if you don’t have much time and want to see as more as possible, one day tour is still fine.

Ninh Binh is scenic year-round. From late May to June and from late September to October, ripe rice fields add fascinating yellow to the picturesque scene.

Ninh Binh is emerging as a top destination in North Vietnam, with more and more properties added to its accommodation list. The city tends to have more budget hotels and homestays for quick stays. There are only a few high-end options available and some properties have a limited amount of rooms so you need to reserve early. Take advantage of the free bicycles on offer from most hotels to get the most of the dreamy landscapes.

Delicious dishes made from goat are Ninh Binh’s special cuisine. Besides, Com Chay (rice crust), Goi Ca Ghenh (Nhech fish salad), Oc Nui (mountain nails) are also popular. Ninh Binh does not serve many Western restaurants.

Motorcycle, bicycle.

Tourists can rent a motorbike (5 – 7 USD/day) or a bike (3 – 4 USD/day) to explore the tiny paths next to the fields.

How to get to Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is 100 km southeast of Hanoi. The easiest way is to start from Hanoi. Bus and train take more than 2 hours while the private car takes under 2 hours. Ninh Binh’s bus station is near the railway station, which is a 15-minute drive from Trang An.

Best places to go near Ninh Binh

4. hoi an – coastal alluring town.

Ancient, peaceful, colorful, it’s why the charming city of Hoi An in central Vietnam is such a popular destination for travelers and locals alike. Indeed, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An’s Ancient Town is filled with traditional Vietnamese tube houses, heritage Chinese architecture of Fukian Assembly Hall or Cantonese Assembly Hall , a famed Japanese Covered Bridge and beautiful French colonial buildings, often painted in a sunny yellow. Hoi An is not only famous for its romantic ambiance but also its wonderful local cuisine, especially Com Ga (chicken rice), Cao Lau (a traditional noodle soup), and Banh bao – Banh vac, a secret recipe only available in the area. The vibrant handcrafted lanterns glowing in the evening dusk as small rowing boats gently glide down the Thu Bon River , and large amount of bespoke tailors and original handicrafts make this cute town the highlight of any trip to Vietnam.

Ideally, you should spend at least three days in Hoi An. You won’t regret it. Stay 1 or 2 extra days if you want to relax on the beach. An Bang is listed in the 100 best beaches around the world by CNN.

Hoi An is appealing all time of the year, but more elegant on Tet Holiday and every night of the 14th lunar month with lantern festivals held in the ancient town. March and April are warm, months to enjoy An Bang beach. It is blazing hot in late May, June and July.

One of the most iconic cities in central Vietnam, Hoi An receives millions of tourists from all over the world each year. The city boasts a beautiful selection of boutique hotels and resorts suitable for anyone’s budget. Most hotels can be found in the old town or along the seaside of Cua Dai. Many tourists choose to stay in Da Nang and make day trips to visit Hoi An. If you choose a hotel by the river outside of the city, you can expect a calm nice view of the countryside from your room.

Give a try to some specialties of Hoi An like Cao Lau, Com Ga (chicken and rice), Mi Quang (Vietnamese turmeric noodles), Hoanh Thanh (wonton dumplings). There are a few restaurants that serve European food, quite tasty and affordable.

Vietnamese turmeric noodles

White rose dumplings

Motorcycle, bicycle, boat, cyclo.

Getting around Hoi An by bicycle and motorcycle is the easiest and cheapest way because of the compact size and rarely busy traffic. Boat travel (about USD 3 in 30 minutes) is also popular when you desire to contemplate the beauty along Hoai and Thu Bon River.

How to get to Hoi An

Hanoi – Hoi An: 800 km Ho Chi Minh – Hoi An: 939 km Da Nang – Hoi An: 30 km Hue – Hoi An: 121 km

• option 1: Take a flight to Da Nang from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, then travel by road to Hoi An.
• option 2: Take a flight to Hue from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, continue to Hoi An by car or train.

Tourist Bus or train + bus Most of the bus and train will only stop in Da Nang from where you need to make your own way to Hoi An. Usually, the best option is the tourist bus or the deluxe bus. These buses depart from Hanoi, Hue, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh and take you direct to Hoi An.

Best places to go near Hoi An

3. ha long bay – spectacular tourist trap.

The natural beauty and aesthetic importance of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder , is a true jewel in the crown of Vietnam’s beauty. Boasting a spectacular seascape filled with thousands of towering limestone islands, karst grottoes, and quaint junk boats cruising the sparkling emerald waters, visiting this area truly is like stepping into a fairy tale, the stuff of legends.

Legend tells of foreign invaders attacking Vietnam in its early stages as a new country. The Jade Emperor sent a family of dragons to help the Vietnamese defend their country; as the dragons descended from the sky, the dragons spit out jewels and jade into the water, which transformed into thousands of islands and islets, creating a strong wall that could not be breached. After the battle finished, the dragon family decided to stay on Earth and live out their days. The place that the Mother Dragon descended is known as Ha Long Bay – the bay of the descending dragon .

2 day 1 night is the most popular choice of traveler to cruise Ha Long Bay. For an in-depth experience and staying away from the tourist hub, plan to stay here for 2 or 3 nights, so you can reach Bai Tu Long Bay, Cat Ba island where you can immerse in untouched nature.

Ha Long Bay has the most gorgeous beauty in April with a crystal blue sky. The weather is pleasant from November to March, a good time to go. However, you should consider visiting in August and September due to its typhoon season.

Ha Long Bay has a wide range of hotel accommodations on offer. In addition to guesthouses, hotels, and resorts, there is also a large selection of cruises to choose from. The vast majority of foreigners stay at least 1 night on board to see the beauty of Ha Long Bay. Various types of boats and budgets are available from budget to top luxe. Don’t forget to book your cabin early to see the best of Ha Long Bay!

Ha Long Bay is home to a variety of seafood. Besides Asian restaurants, many Western ones are also served here.

Seafood noodle soup

Cruise boat, seaplane.

It is a humbling experience to jump on a 25-minute flight and appreciate the whole beauty of Ha Long Bay with the fare of around USD 130.

How to get to Ha Long Bay

There are many ways to get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi, including bus, train or seaplane. The most popular and convenient way is the shuttle bus service, which departs Hanoi daily at around 8.am. It takes 2.5 – 3 hours for a Hanoi – Ha Long trip traveling by bus.

Best places to go near Ha Long Bay

2. ho chi minh – the most bustling city.

It’s hard to imagine the sprawling, modern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City once started out as a small fishing village surrounded by thick forests. Located in  southern Vietnam , the economic center and bustling Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in regards to the population. Fondly referred to by its evocative older name of  Saigon , Ho Chi Minh City retains a preserved air of its French colonial heritage in the old areas of the city while still reflecting the dynamic modern vibes of a cutting edge Vietnam. Key attractions such as the  Notre-Dame Cathedral ,  Saigon Opera House ,  Central Post Office , and  Ben Thanh Market  reflect this colonial heritage, while the  War Remnants Museum ,  Reunification Palace , and preserved  Cu Chi Tunnels  north of the city lay testament to the fighting spirit and recent history of the ravages of war.

2 to 3 days in Ho Chi Minh city is suitable for almost travelers. You’ll have enough time to experience the fantastic street food, great nightlife. With one week, you are able to take things at a slower pace and uncover the city’s hidden charm.

From December to April is the best time to visit this bustling city. Unlike its usual vibrancy, Ho Chi Minh City is more peaceful on Tet Holiday and Independence Day.

Ho Chi Minh City has a huge selection of hotels to choose from, ranging from Airbnb and hostels to chic guesthouses and top-notch branded hotels. The vast majority of hotels are concentrated in Districts 1 and 3. Overall, Ho Chi Minh City hotels are more expensive than other cities in Vietnam. Book early for your choice of the best accommodation.

Ho Chi Minh City is well-known for fabulous street food such as Pha lau, Hu Tieu (pork and seafood noodle soup), Bo Bia (jicama and carrots spring rolls), Banh Mi, Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crispy crepe). In addition, it has a strong coffee culture and huge number of international restaurants.

Bus, private car, taxi, motorcycle.

Due to the hot weather and traffic jams, motorcycle is not the ideal option for tourists although it is much more flexible and inexpensive.

How to get to Ho Chi Minh

Air Tan Son Nhat airport is the busiest airport in Vietnam. The airport has international flights connecting Ho Chi Minh and 76 destinations in 25 countries. There are also a number of domestic flights from Hanoi, Da Nang, Hue, Phu Quoc, Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh.

Train Saigon station is one of the stops in North-South line which run through the length of Vietnam, passing by most of Vietnam’s major destination.

Bus Ho Chi Minh has two large bus station and many tourist bus lines, providing departures to many places through Vietnam.

Best places to go near Ho Chi Minh City

1. hanoi – a quaint capital.

Hanoi became the capital of Vietnam in 1010 under King Ly Thai To, named Thang Long (Ascending Dragon). In 1831, Thang Long was renamed Hanoi, which translates rather poetically to “the city inside the river”

You will feel a magical vibration while wandering around this thousand year city, with all your senses, it’s hard to explain why. Amble down the labyrinth-like alleys of the Old Quarter , and see the hidden pagodas and temples waiting to be explored. Feel the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese when visiting historical sites such as Thăng Long Imperial Citadel , the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , Hoa Lo Prison , One Pillar Pagoda , and Hoan Kiem Lake . Whether it’s the rich culture and heritage shown in the romantic French-influenced colonial architecture or the tantalizing smells of Pho and other tasty street foods wafting through the air, the charm and atmosphere are palpable.

Hanoi is one of the most interesting places in Vietnam. Some fall in love with the city, and a week here is not enough for them. If you like wandering non-touristy area of Hanoi, get sync with the local life here, you should spend at least 4 to 5 days. If you stay in Hanoi just as a transit to visit other nearby destination (Ninh Binh, Sapa ect.), do a full-day city tour. Many will say it’s too short, but still, it allows you to visit most typical attractions of this 1000-year-old capital city.

You can visit the pulsing Hanoi at any time of the year. On Tet Holiday and Independence Day, Hanoi stands out with its peaceful atmosphere.

Accommodation in Hanoi is centered around Hoan Kiem Lake in the popular Old Quarter. Small family-run styled hotels cost between 5 – 20 USD per night while a luxury stay at Sofitel Metropole will run above 200 USD per night. Guests looking for a quiet respite away from the hustle and bustle of Hoan Kiem District can head north of the city center to the quieter areas of Ba Dinh and Tay Ho District, where hotels like Pan Pacific and Intercontinental can be found with the per night average a little over 100 USD. Trendy airbnbs ranging between 10 – 15 USD are also on the rise, with independent travellers looking for more personal experiences.

A foodie paradise, Hanoi is chockfull of amazing culinary treasures, from small noodle shops and street food delicacies to trendy expat start-ups and fancy restaurants.

Some local dishes that you should try in Hanoi: Pho bo (beef noodles), Pho ga (chicken noodles), Bun Cha (Grilled Pork & Rice Noodles), Cha ca La Vong (La Vong grilled fish), Banh cuon (Steamed rice rolls), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Cafe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee), Nem ran (Fried spring roll), Bo cuon la lot (Grilled beef in piper lolot leaves).

Ca phe phin

Private car, taxi, motorcycle, bus

The traffic in Hanoi is often unfathomable, with motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, taxis, cars, and 4 x 4s all clamboring for space, especially during commuting hours from 7:30 – 8:30 and 17:00 – 18:30. The ever-popular grab application is seen everywhere with motorbike taxi’s wearing their green uniforms, offering rides at a much cheaper, fixed rate than bargaining on the street with local “xe om”. Xe om’s can be arranged on the street corner for around 0.43 USD a km while taxis cost around 0.50 USD per km. Buses, often now with wi-fi connectivity, cost 0.30 USD and less per ride.

How to get to Hanoi

Air Located 35 km outside of the city centre, Noi Bai international airport is the largest airport in northern Vietnam. There are 51 airlines operating with international flights to more than 20 destinations. You can easily find a direct flight to Hanoi from many places all over the world.

Train From Hanoi train station, you can catch the train to the South (Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh) and to Sapa (in the north)

Bus With four bus stations, you can find buses to Hanoi from any provinces throughout Vietnam.

Best places to go near Hanoi

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Top 10 Destination of Vietnam by TripAdvisor Members

Vietnam is known as one of the world’s largest travel site helping millions of visitors every month plan their perfect trips, Trip Advisor providing so many helpful reviews from previous members who used to travel to Vietnam and thanks to their experience, they gave us TOP 10 Destination of Vietnam that traveler should visit at least once. Here we are:

Table of Contents

1.  Hanoi Capital

2. ha long bay, 3. sapa town & bac ha, 4. hue citadel, 5. da nang city, 6. hoi an ancient town, 7. ho chi minh city, 8. nha trang, 9. phu quoc island, 10. mui ne – phan thiet.

Attracting about 4.95 million foreign visitors (2017’s data by Hanoi Tourism Department), Hanoi Capital City impresses visitors by the capital of thousand golden year culture of Vietnam . This long history city is widely known as one of the most well aged and preserved through over 1000 years. Until now, Hanoi still remains the ancient architectural style though houses in the old quarter have been commercialized for the business purposes. The other things that make Hanoi special is that Hanoi is the only capital city in the South- East Asia reserves the state president’s mausoleum and travelers can visit him when they are in Hanoi easily. Besides, there are many things attract tourists to visit such as Long Bien Bridge (over 100 years old), Hoa Lo Prison (Hilton House), Temple of Literature , Bat Trang pottery village , Hoan Kiem Lake , Ngoc Son Temple and many many different kind of museums. Hanoi City is also a really good stop over for traveler to visit other surrounding highlighted places such as Ha Long Bay, Sapa town, Hoa Lu Tam Coc, Mai Chau Valley. Traveling to Hanoi where travelers can easily reach when you start from Hanoi.

Read more : Things to do in Hanoi

Ha Long Bay is top attraction of Vietnam this is a Must See when you visit Vietnam. Ha Long Bay attracts tourist by not only the stunning limestone islands and islets, different formation of rocks and natural forests and caves , but by variety of activities that visitors can do such as Cave visiting, kayaking, squid fishing, swimming, ect. The special thing for Ha Long Bay is that you will have a chance to stay overnight on boat to enjoy the fresh air and the pure bliss of the Bay. If you are lucky at a sunny day, wake up early in the morning to view the sun rise and get your photo of your life. Recently, tourists have more than one option to visit the bay when local tour operator open new journey in Lan Ha Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, Cat Ba Island in order to provide you a different glance of the bay.

Sapa is located up to the North West of Hanoi in which you will spend about 6 hours on bus/ car to get there. If you are looking for a new isolated mountainous area, you should absolutely travel to Sapa where you can both enjoy the beauty of nature with stunning mountains, colorful paddy fields and experience our various culture of H’Mong ethnic minority. Visiting Sapa, travelers can spend their time to do hiking at the villages such as Cat Cat, Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van Villages. In case you want to discover the really remote village where less tourist travel, you can go to Can Cau Village to visit local market and love market as well. End up touring in Sapa, tourists will have wide acknowledge about Vietnamese’s culture and customs.

Read more : Things to do in Sapa

Known as one of the most thickness historical city in Vietnam, Hue Vietnam brings tourists a quiet, smooth and low pace of life but equally educational quality. There are endless spot sights that you can discover when you are in Hue such as Emperor Minh Mang Mausoleum, Emperor Khai Dinh Mausoleum, the Royal Citadel, Forbidden City, Hue Royal Museum and the seven – storey Thien Mu Pagoda on the riverbank. Having folk song along Perfume River (Song Huong) will be one of the must try things to get to know the unique customs of Vietnam in general and Hue’s people in special. Remember to bring your phone or camera since this city have a great offer for photographers.

Read more : Things to do in Hue, Vietnam

Da Nang is said to be one of the most worthy city to stay by its modern, cleanness and nature. There are so many places that travelers can visit from Da Nang that makes this city attracted millions of visitors each year. You can travel to Marble Mountain, Hai Van Pass and Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge which is recognized as one of the TOP 100 highlighted places in 2018 that you must see when you are here. Besides, the beautiful stunning beaches in Da Nang are also one of the reasons to hold tourist stay longer at this city, especially at the summer time. Traveling to Da Nang, tourists should not miss their amazing traditional food where all culinary elite are combined and this will be a real paradise for those who are seafood lovers.

Read more : Things to do in Da Nang

Came here four times and I would not mind coming back here one or ever more for such a amazing beautiful town with pretty sandy beaches, colorful lanterns, ancient towns and delicious food. This city is located on the central Vietnamese coast which is a really well preserved the ancient traces. We are all having a special offers from Hoi An by its peaceful setting and location that make this city become a popular stop for tourists to relax or even discover the historical places surrounding. Traveling to Hoi An, visitors have so many options for sightseeing including Buddhist shrines, Japanese bridge, French colonial houses, art galleries and old canals. If you just simply want to relax, you can choose a resort next to beach to immerse yourself at your leisure and enjoy the nature. Adventurous foodies will make you become a local since you will experience in hand the daily things that local eat to get to know more about culture and habit.

Read more : Things to do in Hoi An

Ho Chi Minh City is known as the business and financial spot of the country with a long time history for hundreds of years existing where has driven the whole city with unlimited energy. This living city breathes life and vitality for all who settle here, and visitors cannot stand but be hauled along for the fast pace.  Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, visitors will have an endless list to discover such as War Remnants Museum, the Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market , Notre Dame Cathedral , Reunification Palace. In addition, Ho Chi Minh City is also known as a stop-over for tourists of they want to visit Mekong Delta, Cu Chi Tunnel , Vung Tau and the other southern provinces.

Read more : Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Read more : Things to do in Nha Trang

Phu Quoc Island is one of the most attractive places for both international and domestic tourists visiting each year by its wild and beautiful blue sandy beaches. It is famous not only by green beaches, romantic sunset and sunrise, green forest and fresh atmosphere but by its bustling night market that make tourist remember about this pretty place. Phu Quoc is located down South of Vietnam which is known as one of the largest untouched island in Vietnam with the same size as Singapore 600 sq.kms. Coming to the sea, we can not miss some exciting activities such as Snorkeling, Cuba Diving , Cable car journey (the longer cable car in the world). Traveling to Phu Quoc, you will be amazed by many beautiful sandy beaches, fresh sea and friendly people that all make Phu Quoc Island as a true paradise for travelers.

Read more : Things to do in Phu Quoc Island

Located down south of Vietnam, Phan Thiet offers tourists a great favor with one of the most coastal roads in Vietnam covered by beach on the other side and white or red sandy dune. Apart from that, Phan Thiet covers not only natural geographical wonders, traditional fishing villages, pristine beaches and verdant mountains ranges but also ancient building preserved from the 9 th century. Needless to say, Phan Thiet bring travelers a new vitality since it provides plenty things to see and do for their holiday here.

Traveling to a new country may be not a big deal for well traveled people but to plan a real good trip with great value is another issue

This article I just provide some essential information to help you plan a perfect upcoming trip in Vietnam. For further assistance, please contact our professional and friendly staff to customize your perfect private trip. Indeed, we will make you satisfy and make your life journey memorable by our long time experience in tourism industry. Do not hesitate to contact us since your satisfaction is at our top priority.

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23 things to know before visiting Vietnam

Aug 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Read on for all the key things to know before you visit Vietnam © Elizaveta Galitckaia / Shutterstock

Adventures abound in Vietnam . You can climb the heights and scuba dive the lows, immerse yourself in culture or just kick back on the sand, confident in the knowledge that a fantastic meal is waiting for you at the end of the day. But there are things to know before you go, to avoid pitfalls in paradise. These are our top tips. 

1. Pack for the climate

Perhaps the most important consideration when planning a trip to Vietnam is the weather. The south of the country sits firmly in the humid tropics, but the climate becomes increasingly temperate as you head north, and the highlands around Sapa can be downright chilly in winter. If you plan to visit both halves of the country, bring some clothes for the cooler highlands as well as the steamy Mekong Delta . 

2. Be rain ready

Vietnam is soaked by the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to April, so check the weather in the areas you plan to visit. Trekking in the northwest and boat trips in Halong Bay , for example, can be a soggy experience in July and August, but this is a great – if popular – time to bask on the central beaches. Even in the rainy season, it doesn’t rain all day, every day, so bring a raincoat or umbrella and make the best of the smaller crowds and lower prices. 

3. Investigate the visa options

There are numerous ways to arrange the paperwork for a visit to Vietnam, some cheaper and quicker than others. You may not need a visa at all for a short trip, and electronic visas and visas on arrival are available for many nationalities – much less hassle than going to the embassy in person. Read up on the visa requirements before you book your flights, to avoid paying more than you need to, or getting held up by red tape. 

4. Get your jabs

As with anywhere in the tropics, there are tropical illnesses to be aware of in Vietnam. See your doctor at least a month before you travel to get up to date with vaccinations, and arrange anti-malarial medication if you plan to visit rural areas. 

Mosquitoes can also carry dengue fever, so bring repellent. On arrival, avoid drinking tap water and use antibacterial hand gel to reduce the risk of stomach bugs; a medical face mask can reduce the risk of respiratory infections and help with pollution in big cities.  

5. Book ahead for Tet and the holiday peak 

Booking transport, accommodation and tours ahead of time is not essential, but it’s a good way to avoid disappointment if you come at a busy time , such as July and August on the central coast. If you plan to be in Vietnam during the Tet (Lunar New Year) festival in late January or early February, having transport and accommodation in place before you arrive is a very sensible precaution. 

There is a caveat, however – book directly with operators where possible. If you go through an agency, you’ll pay more, and some travelers have reported not getting the services and standards they were expecting when booking through third parties. 

6. Factor sleeper buses and trains into your itinerary

Domestic flights in Vietnam are inexpensive but there are less polluting alternatives. When planning long-distance travel , don’t overlook the country’s overnight trains and buses – you’ll save the cost of a night’s accommodation and cover big distances, without eating into your sightseeing time. Reserve a fully horizontal berth for a more comfortable night’s sleep – both buses and trains have them. The booking site 12Go Asia is a good place to start investigating the options. 

7. Give Vietnam the time it deserves

Vietnam measures 1650km (1025 miles) from the Chinese border in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, so you’ll need plenty of time to get from A to B. Road and rail transport can be slow, and there are lots of places where you’ll want to stop as you travel between the major hubs. If you only have a short time, focus your itinerary on a small area – Hanoi and around, say, or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and the Delta. 

8. Respect religious spaces 

When visiting Buddhist, Hindu, Confucian and Taoist temples, churches and other religious buildings, dress respectfully – it’s best to cover your legs and upper arms, and you may need to take off your shoes and hat to enter. Never touch anyone on the head, and avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards another person or any Buddhist statues – both signs of disrespect in Buddhist culture. 

9. Don’t lose face 

As in many other parts of Asia, Vietnamese culture places considerable emphasis on "saving face" – in other words, avoiding situations that might cause individual or collective loss of dignity and respect. Public outbursts and arguments can cause everyone involved to lose face, so keep a sense of perspective, and try not to get angry when confronted by inconveniences as you travel. 

10. Do right with your chopsticks 

There are several taboos associated with using chopsticks. Leaving your sticks sticking upright in a bowl of food is considered unlucky, as it resembles offerings of incense sticks made for the dead. Using chopsticks of uneven length is also frowned on, as is tapping your bowl with your sticks (associated with beggars requesting alms). If you eat in a group, use clean chopsticks (or the reverse ends of your own chopsticks) to pass food to others.

11. Eat like a local

Food is practically a religion in Vietnam, but locals focus their energy on the evening meal, where multiple dishes are shared between diners, with the whole family getting involved. Rather than ordering a single main course, choose a spread of dishes for the table and sample a rich mix of flavors and textures. If you need a boost between meals, street food snacks can be found everywhere, or just grab a nutritious sinh tố  (fruit shake) or a cup of local drip-brewed ca phe (coffee).  

12. Don’t go overboard with displays of affection

Public displays of affection are not a big part of Vietnamese culture, for couples of all orientations. Kissing, hugging and even holding hands in public can raise eyebrows, so tone down the romantic gestures while you’re in the country. On the plus side,  despite lingering legal inequality, LGBTIQ+ couples generally face few problems in Vietnam, and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) both have lively scenes. 

13. Be a respectful photographer

Always ask before taking photographs of people, particularly in minority villages. Many people find it intrusive, and by asking first, you’ll know if people are comfortable being included in your travel photos. In tribal areas, some villagers ask for payment for photos, which is fair enough... how would you feel if strangers kept sticking a long lens into your front porch? 

14. Don’t get dragged into Vietnamese politics

Another time to think twice before pulling out your camera is during public demonstrations and political rallies. Critics of the government can face harsh punishments – demonstrations in 2018 against laws allowing the authorities to monitor online communications led to over 100 arrests. Play it safe – steer clear of political gatherings and avoid conversations about politics with local people. 

15. Be a fair bargainer

Haggling is a fact of life in Vietnam, particularly at markets and souvenir shops, and you may pay over the odds if you accept the first price suggested. However, bargaining should never be a confrontational process – treat it as a game and counter the starting price with a lower counter offer, and see how the seller responds. With a bit of back and forth, you should reach a mutually acceptable price – and if you don’t, you can always decline politely and try another vendor. There’s little point haggling over tiny sums of money – if you pay 5000 dong (US$0.20) over the going rate, consider that you can probably afford it.

16. Know your loos

Western-style sit-down toilets are increasingly common in Vietnam, but you’ll often have to pay to use public loos, and paper is rarely provided. Carry your own, or use the hose or water jug provided. Bring antibacterial hand gel or soap; many bathrooms only provide running water.  

17. Don’t let touts take you for a ride 

Commission-seeking middle men (and middle women) pop up almost anywhere tourists gather, and Vietnam has its share. Be wary of touts who encourage visitors to use certain tour agencies, hotels, shops and transport companies in touristy parts of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An. If you use their services, you’ll pay more to cover their fee.

18. Avoid the sex tourism industry

Sex tourism is an unwelcome legacy of the American War, but it’s usually easy to spot – and avoid – places where the sex trade takes place. Be wary of bars, karaoke lounges and massage parlors with scantily clad staff and lots of pink or red neon. Note that some hotels refuse to allow foreign men to share rooms with Vietnamese women – which can lead to headaches for genuine couples with an Asian partner. 

19. Give drugs a pass

Illegal drugs aren’t hard to find on the traveler circuit in Vietnam, but the penalties, if you’re caught by the police, can be severe – even for possession of small amounts. Many travelers have ended up in Vietnamese jails for drug offenses, and the death penalty can be applied in drug cases. If you are inclined to toke while you travel, it’s only a short hop to Thailand , where the consumption of marijuana in food and drinks has been decriminalized for now.  

20. Shop responsibly 

Vietnam has some wonderful crafts and art forms that make for great souvenirs, but stick to modern pieces; it’s illegal to take antiques out of the country. Also be watchful for souvenirs made from animal parts, such as shell, horn, bone, teeth and feathers. Such items are usually taken from wild animals, and you could fall foul of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) . 

21. Be smart about crime, not anxious

Opportunistic crime can occasionally be a problem, particularly in crowded cities where pickpockets and bag-snatchers on motorcycles take advantage of the unwary, but this isn’t a problem unique to Vietnam. Activate your big city precautions, and watch your belongings on busy public transport or in bars and cafes (using a phone or laptop at an outside table is unwise). Handbags with a single strap are a popular target for ride-by bag snatchers – a daypack or messenger bag is a better option.  

22. Be wary of American War ordnance

Horrifying volumes of munitions were dropped over Vietnam during the American War, and unexploded ordnance continues to kill and maim people every year. Well-traveled areas are usually safe, but be cautious about stepping off roads and paths in rural areas. Don’t climb into bomb craters and never touch old explosive devices – they can remain deadly for decades. 

23. Be typhoon smart

Vietnam is hit by periodic typhoons between May and November, with the biggest risk of storms from August to September. If you travel during the typhoon season, monitor local weather reports, and head inland from the coast if a direct hit by a big storm is predicted. In the event of flooding, contact your embassy or consulate and follow advice from the local authorities. 

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• Top 10 luxurious hotels in Vietnam

There’s something unique about Vietnam’s luxury properties. The country’s naturally beautiful landscapes, enticing food, and rich culture create a singular backdrop for five-star experiences , whether set along a sandy beach or in the beating heart of a metropolis. Vietnam's top hotels will delight you with superb hospitality and a distinctive aesthetic found nowhere else. Snag a memorable stay at any of these 10 exceptional Vietnamese hotels and resorts.

Amanoi, ninh thuan.

It may be set high in the hills of Núi Chúa National Park, but the sweeping views of Biển Đông more than make up for the minor exertion. Amanoi ’s design is so striking and the service so accommodating that you make never want to venture down to the coastline at all. Instead, many guests choose to while away the hours sunning themselves by the jaw-dropping infinity pool. The secluded location of the beach below adds an undeniable charm.

Reverie Saigon

A celebration of extravagant tastes, The Reverie Saigon showcases the best of Italian design furniture together with 3,000 tons of high-grade marble and a whimsical, endearing attitude. The 218-square-metre Saigon Suite is the pinnacle of luxurious abodes within Vietnam, however there’s something remarkable about each venue at the Reverie — from the glorious, airy lobby with its Baldi Frienze clock to the Sicis mosaic in the outdoor swimming pool. When you need to head out, the hotel’s two Phantom Dragon Rolls Royce will show you around in style. 

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

The Metropole in Hanoi is inarguably Vietnam’s grandest hotel. Since 1901, the elegant building at 15 Ngo Quyen has lured guests such as Catherine Deneuve, Charlie Chaplin, and Graham Greene. The historical wing is a throwback to Old Hanoi, with canopied bed and balconies that open directly onto Ngo Quyen, while the newer Opera wing is a perfect example of modern Vietnamese luxury. The Metropole’s restaurants are Hanoi institutions: Le Club, a bright, gazebo-like structure surrounded by tropical greenery; La Terrasse, a wrap-around cafe facing a leafy park; and Angelina, a contemporary New World restaurant sporting a slinky cigar lounge and handsome brushed steel bar.

The Four Seasons Nam Hai, Hoi An

It doesn’t get more opulent than this sleekly designed haven, which draws aesthetic inspiration from ancient feng shui philosophy and the architecturally striking royal tombs of Hué. As you enter, a series of tiered infinity pools descending toward the cobalt blue sea make a dramatic first impression. The Nam Hai's 100 villas range from one-bedrooms perfect for a romantic getaway to lavish five-bedroom retreats with infinity pools and private butlers. Despite its size, the resort feels intimate thanks to the warm, personalised quality of the service and the extraordinary attention to detail. 

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay

The JW Marriott in Phu Quoc has caused a stir since its opening. As the awards, reviews, and photos attest, the property is a visual stunner, conceived by Bill Bensley in the theme of a colonial-era university. There’s something to admire in every corner of this beachfront beauty. Guest rooms feature sunken balconies and clawfoot tubs, and face powdery Khem Beach and the resort’s four swimming pools. Each morning, Tempus Fugit restaurant lays out a kingly spread of dishes from across the globe, and after dark, fine-dining restaurant Pink Pearl entices guests with live Neo-classical opera and gourmet cuisine in an extraordinarily opulent setting. Don’t miss a treatment at Chanterelle Spa, named World’s Leading New Spa 2017 at the World Luxury Awards.

Hotel des Arts Saigon

Ensconced in Ho Chi Minh City ’s charming District 3, this MGallery property by Sofitel delights guests with gorgeous, cosy rooms with wooden floors, fine furnishings, and fabulous views over the treetops of Nguyen Thi Minh Khai. As its name suggests, Hotel des Arts Saigon is awash in beautiful Vietnamese art pieces, and natural light pours in from floor-to-ceiling windows in the restaurants and lobby. Inspiring interiors, a lovely spa and first-rate rooftop bar and swimming pool add a touch of romance couples will love.

The Anam, Cam Ranh 

This five-star beach resort in Cam Ranh Bay is an exquisite example of Vietnamese hospitality. Ranked #4 among the top hotels in Asia and the #1 luxury hotel in Vietnam by Conde Nast Traveller's readers in 2020, The Anam takes pride in its destination-centered guest experience. Villas and bungalows are decorated with vibrant Vietnamese artwork, and set amid flowering tropical gardens. Pool villas open onto rolling green lawns which lead the eye down toward a frothy blue ocean. Two gorgeous swimming pools suggest hours of relaxation and bliss, while the resort's spa and yoga classes add a deeper dimension of self-care to enhance and restore guests' spirits. 

Azerai La Residence, Hue

The Azerai is easily one of the most striking properties in Vietnam’s former feudal capital of Hue . Poised on the banks of the Perfume River, the original building was constructed in the art-deco style of the 1930s, and served as the mansion of the French governor in Hue. Today it’s under the helm of renowned hotelier Adrian Zecha, and a sublime address for a Hue getaway. Check into this pristine all-white property and spend your days in its spacious saltwater pool, fine-dining restaurant Le Parfum, and relaxing rooms overlooking the gardens and river beyond.

Six Senses Con Dao

With crystalline waves and white sand for days, you’d be forgiven for thinking you had stumbled upon a Crusoe fantasy at this remote retreat. The resort’s untrammelled surrounds are part of a protected national marine park that extends throughout the Côn Đảo archipelago. Rather than mar the natural beauty of Côn Sơn Island, Six Senses Con Dao sticks to an understated aesthetic reminiscent of a traditional fishing village, with bamboo being the material of choice in the villas and rooms. Underneath the minimalist design though, you’ll find state-of-the-art amenities including an award-winning spa and a sophisticated Asian-fusion eatery right on the beach.

Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula

A marvel of modern design courtesy of Bill Bensley, the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort occupies a prime piece of hillside on the stunning Son Tra Peninsula. Traditional motifs drawn from Vietnamese temples are scattered throughout the villas and interiors. Ornate windows recall the form of Hội An ’s flickering lanterns, while carved lions, dragons and other beasts add to the ambiance. The 700-metre private beach is perfect for swimming, sunning or simply sinking your toes into the amber-hued sand.

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Top 10 Famous Cities in Vietnam Tourism

In recent years, Vietnam tourism has become one of the outstanding destinations in Asia. Standing out in the eyes of international friends is a travel country with many interesting things to experience. Not only is it a destination with a long-standing culture, many glorious historical achievements, but visitors also experience the beauty of nature, diverse cuisine and hospitality of the Vietnamese people.

In this article, Fito will reveal to you the top 10 tourist cities in Vietnam. Moreover, each city will have its own unique beauty along with dozens of things that you can explore in our country. Let’s check it out!

Admittedly, Vietnam is located in a geographical location that is extremely favored by Mother Nature. We own the majestic mountains, of which Fansipan peak is the roof of Indochina. Besides, there is a fertile delta plain, along with a coastline of up to 3200km from north to south.

Mục lục tóm tắt

Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam tourism)

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the largest and most developed cities of Vietnam. Located in the southern region. It is also the center of economics, politics, culture and education.

Ho Chi Minh City is also known as Saigon or Gia Dinh. This is because it has a lot of history and culture. Featured destinations such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, War Museum,… most of all, this place is also famous for the colors of local markets such as Ben Thanh Market, Binh Tan Market,… Visitors can come to shop as well as learn about the local culture. in recent times, Ho Chi Minh is a leading destination in Vietnam tourism with many activities, amusement parks,….

Ha Noi Capital

This is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Vietnam. It is located in the Northern region and owns many important historical and cultural relics such as: Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Temple of Literature of Quoc Tu Giam, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum,etc.

Besides, Hanoi also stands out with the beauty of the traditional culture of the Vietnamese people. There are many Vietnamese markets such as Dong Xuan. Above all, you do not need to worry because it has a lot of entertainment both day and night. Especially the best hotels in Vietnam are concentrated here so visitors will always have the best experience.

Hue City (Historical milestones it Vietnam Tourism)

Hue is known as an ancient city located at the center of the S-shaped map. This is one of the ancient cities associated with the majestic history of the Vietnamese people. Because it was the capital in a historical period. So the style of dress, eating and speaking of the indigenous people here is extremely elegant.

Most of all, Hue’s most attractive spot in Vietnam tourism is the historical buildings. The most prominent can come from Hue Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb,etc. In additions, visitors will understand more about the culture as well as the history of our country.

Hue is a peaceful city, not too busy. It is also a beautiful and poetic beauty characteristic in the Vietnamese tourism market. Surely this will be a point for those who love to learn about Vietnamese culture, history and people.

Hoi An Ancient Town

This city is one of the world cultural heritage sites. It is located in Quang Nam province in the Central region, Vietnam. It has been known as a trading port since ancient times, where traders all over the world traded with each other in the 16th and 17th centuries. Above all, the city still retains the ancient architecture, which still exists to this day.

This place is anyone’s virtual living paradise. Simple streets, buildings, cafes, etc., all have beautiful photo angles. It is simply the beauty of the ancient, history, culture, and people here. In Hoi An, you can visit many outstanding destinations such as Cau Pagoda, Thanh Ha pottery village, traditional markets, etc. Without a doubt, Hoi An is definitely on the list of top 10 tourist cities in Vietnam tourism.

Da Nang City (Nice beach in Vietnam tourism)

Da Nang city is one of the important economic, educational and cultural centers of Vietnam. Above all, this is also the most famous tourist city in the Vietnamese market. Known by many tourists as the most livable city in Vietnam and has an extremely poetic coastline.

Besides, Da Nang also owns many important tourist destinations such as Linh Ung Pagoda, Ba Na Hill, Ngu Hanh Son,etc. It is also a paradise of entertainment and relaxation. And don’t forget that Da Nang also has famous and unique museums!

Quy nhon City (New place in Vietnam tourism)

Quy Nhon is a coastal city in Binh Dinh province, Vietnam. It is one of the most important coastlines in international trade. There are many beautiful beaches here, especially they still retain the wild beauty. This is also a Vietnamese tourist destination that has recently emerged. When tourists go to familiar places become overloaded.

In addition, this place is famous for its rich history associated with ancient Cham culture. Especially at night, there are many entertainment areas. Typical bars, pubs as well as roadside eateries. Don’t forget to experience the unique traditional cuisine of the indigenous people.

Da Lat City – (City of flower)

Da Lat is one of the cities possessing the most poetic and beautiful beauty in Vietnam. Located on the Highlands, so that the natural landscape is extremely majestic and overflowing with vitality.

This destination has a climate similar to Europe, which is also why this place was chosen by the French colonialists as a resort during the war in Vietnam. Thanks to that, the architectural works here are interwoven between Asia and Europe. Above all, the ancient simplicity, bringing a peaceful way of perception to anyone.

Da Lat city is the hottest destination in Vietnam tourism. This place owns high-end resorts, beautiful homestay. And this is also a historic city, with works such as: Palace I, II, III; French Embassy; Con Ga Church; Railway Station;…

Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam tourism paradise)

Phu Quoc Island is famous as the busiest island city in the Vietnamese market. It is an island, but it is very modern and large. It owns both a national reserve and an international airport. Currently, the tourism market in Phu Quoc is extremely developed. It is associated with island tours and is a resort paradise.

If you are an island lover, then this is definitely the place for you. Phu Quoc is likened to the most beautiful sunset and sunrise in Vietnam.

Nha Trang City

Nha Trang is one of the famous sea tourism cities in Vietnam. It has a long and wide beach. Along with that is a lot of water activities and interesting entertainment for visitors.

Besides, this is also a city associated with the history of Cham people. The most prominent cultural monument is Ponagar Tower, which hosts many cultural events. The highlight of which is the extremely famous Katê festival of the Cham people. It is also a city with lots of entertainment. Therefore, visitors will never get bored.

Sapa City – Vietnam tourism adventure Culture Tour

Sapa is one of the mountainous cities in Vietnam. It stands out in the Vietnamese tourism market. Because it is an ideal destination for those who love to experience indigenous culture. It was the only city with snow.

Above all, this place possesses the majestic beauty of Mother Nature. Pass roads, trekking trips or participating in adventure tours. Definitely an unforgettable experience for anyone. In addition, visitors can also explore the unique culture of the people here. Festivals, markets, and specialties are the culinary features of the highlands.

So we went through the top 10 tourist cities in Vietnam tourism together. If you have other ideas, please contribute to Fito in the comments. As a result, the writing becomes more adaptable.

Hello world, I'm Fito Thinh, a blogger. I want to share with you about new destinations, good books, Spanish and the beautiful things of life.

Top 10 thành phố du lịch Việt Nam

The profound meaning of the roads around independence palace, you may also like, (review) hành trình hà giang 2 ngày 1..., review cung đường trekking bạch mộc lương tử, 36 giờ du lịch mộc châu, việt nam, việt nam có phải điểm đến du lịch..., review cung đường trekking ky quan san, 36 giờ du lịch cao bằng, 36 giờ du lịch hà giang, (review) măng đen 3 ngày 2 đêm –..., 36 giờ du lịch quy nhơn, bình định, (review) kinh nghiệm du lịch thái lan, leave a comment cancel reply.

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Top 10 Fastest-growing Tourist Destinations

Vietnam just isn’t precisely a stranger to tourism, according to the UNWTO. Anyone who has visited Ha Long Bay, the place junk boats full of tourists jostle for area on polluted waters, will probably have seen the grimmer aspect of the nation’s burgeoning tourism industry.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has revealed the world’s Top 10 fastest-growing tourist locations in 2017, with Vietnam discovering a place.

The organization additionally really useful Ninh Binh, “ the inland Ha Long Bay “, as a less-crowded various to the oversubscribed tourist staple.

Along with lovely nature diversified with mountains, forests, deltas, beaches, caves, waterfalls and rivers, its varied tasty and low-cost street food and friendly people have additionally attracted increasingly more tourists.

It welcomed over 1.17 million international tourists in November, a rise of 14.4 per cent in comparison with October, bringing the full to 11.6 million within the first eleven months of 2017, up 27.8 per cent in opposition to the identical interval final 12 months, according to the General Statistics Office (GSO).

It welcomed 10 million international tourists for the first time in 2016, up 25 per cent against 2015. The number was only 2 million in 2000.

Vietnam aims to develop tourism into a spearhead economic sector by 2020, with a target of welcoming up to 20 million foreign arrivals and hosting 82 million domestic tourists, contributing 10 per cent to GDP and earning $35 billion in revenue.

The tourism industry has implemented new policies to invest in infrastructure and attract tourists.

Vietnam already offers visa exemptions for tourists from South Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asian countries, as well as extended visa-free programs through to June of next year for travelers from Western Europe, including those from the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. An e-visa system has been in place since February for tourists from 46 countries, at http://vietnamtourism.vn/plan-your-trip/visa-requirements.

In the next three years, a project to restructure the tourism industry based on key tourism products in coastal areas, islands, ecotourism, and community tourism will be a focus.

The country also plans to reduce electricity costs for the hospitality sector and issue appropriate land use tax rates for tourism projects, to attract investors.

Airlines are also encouraged to open new routes linking Vietnam and major tourism source markets.

Vietnam is also calling for investors to develop integrated tourism and services projects, such as shopping centers and entertainment centers, in key tourism destinations.

Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Nguyen Ngoc Thien said Vietnam will be able to catch up with Indonesia in tourism growth this year.

It should accelerate its growth, he added, and attract more tourists and enter the Top 3 in ASEAN, which are now Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.

By 2030, tourism, as a spearhead economic sector, will drive the development of other sectors and Vietnam will be one of the leading Southeast Asian countries with strong tourism growth.

The other countries on the UNWTO’s list are Palestine, Egypt, the Northern Mariana Islands, Iceland, Tunisia, Uruguay, Nicaragua, Mongolia, and Israel. VN Economic Times

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Chuc Thanh Pagoda

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Vietnamese tourists shift preference to asian destinations.

Domestic travel firms said affordable prices make Southeast and Northeast Asian destinations particularly appealing to Vietnamese tourists, eclipsing domestic tours as domestic flight costs soar.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) in Vietnam, in the first two months of the year, the number of Vietnamese visitors to Japan reached over 107,000, a 40% increase compared to the same period of 2019.

The number of Vietnamese visitors to Japan in February was the highest ever, exceeding 60,000.

The previous highest month was February 2023, with 55,800 visitors.

A JNTO representative explained that the sudden increase in Vietnamese visitors to Japan in February was due to the long Lunar New Year holiday, a weaker yen making tours to Japan cheaper than before the pandemic, and the growing popularity of Japan among Vietnamese tourists.

The number of Vietnamese visitors to Japan in March and April has not yet been released but is expected to rise.

Taiwan and South Korea also saw an increase in Vietnamese visitors in the first quarter. In January alone, the number of Vietnamese visitors to Taiwan reached over 17,000, ranking 10th among the top 10 key markets, according to the Taiwan Tourism Administration.

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) reported that nearly 120,000 Vietnamese tourists visited the country in the first quarter, a 38.9% increase compared to the same time last year and an 8.5% increase compared to the same period in 2019.

In 2023, Vietnam was the leading Southeast Asian market in terms of the number of general and business tourists visiting South Korea, with over 420,000 Vietnamese visiting the country, an increase by 140% compared to 2022 and 74% compared to 2019.

Nguyen Huy Hoang, operations director of Klook Vietnam, said the travel e-commerce platform recorded a 63% increase in Vietnamese tourists traveling to Northeast Asia in March, the peak of the cherry blossom season.

Hoang revealed that 87% of tourists surveyed said they dedicated their entire trip just to see the blossoms. Over half of Vietnamese users on the Klook platform expressed a desire to spend about two weeks on flower season tours, spending an average of up to $2,500 during that period.

Thi Quoc Duy, director of Retail Center at BenThanh Tourist, stated that for the upcoming Reunification Day and Labor Day on April 30 and May 1, as well as the summer holiday, the company's tours to Japan and South Korea have garnered the most interest and bookings.

They are followed by Southeast Asian travel programs to Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia.

In Southeast Asia, Thailand and Singapore remain traditional markets for Vietnamese tourists.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand reported that in the first two months of the year, the number of Vietnamese visitors to Thailand reached more than 130,400, down 7% compared to the first two months of 2023.

However, the number of visitors is expected to increase in the upcoming summer months.

The authority views Vietnam as an important short-haul foreign tourism market for Thailand. In 2023, Vietnamese visitors were among the top ten markets coming to Thailand, with over one million visits, equivalent to 96% of the 2019 figure.

Singapore also recorded growth in Vietnamese visitors in the first quarter.

As of March 24, the number of Vietnamese visitors reached 93,000, an increase of more than 2,000 compared to the first quarter of 2023, equating to 40% of the first quarter of 2019, according to the Singapore Tourism Board.

In 2023, the flow of Vietnamese tourists to and from Changi International Airport ranked ninth among the top 10 international visitor markets to the airport.

A VnExpress survey at two major tourism events in April, the Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Festival and the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) in Hanoi, showed that travel companies rated international tours as overwhelming domestic tours.

Bui Thanh Tu, Marketing Director of Best Price, confirmed that at both events, customers primarily purchased tours to China and Thailand.

A representative from Hoang Viet Travel based in Hanoi said domestic products accounted for only 25% of the revenue after four days at the VITM fair, while tours to China accounted for 35%, and other markets such as Japan, Europe, and the U.S. contributed 40%.

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Here are the top 10 smartest cities in the world — and none are in the U.S.

Smart cities in Europe and Asia are gaining ground globally while North American cities have fallen down the ranks, according to the 2024 Smart City Index released April.

Of the top 10 smart cities on the list, seven were in Europe.

This year's index was produced by the IMD World Competitiveness Center's Smart City Observatory in collaboration with the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization (WeGO) that's based in Seoul, South Korea.

The report ranks 142 smart cities worldwide based on data analyzed by researchers, as well as survey responses of 120 residents in each city. The study captures an overview of how the infrastructure and technology available in a city impacts the city's performance and the quality of life of its inhabitants.

So, what is a smart city?

According to the IMD , a smart city is defined as "an urban setting that applies technology to enhance the benefits and diminish the shortcomings of urbanization for its citizens."

With very few exceptions, cities in the top 20 are geographically located in areas where social and economic environments are relatively predictable, even against the overall climate of global uncertainties. IMD Smart City Index 2024

The cities that perform well on the list have also developed initiatives that cater to their citizens' overall quality of life.

"Such initiatives have focused on developing green spaces and broadening opportunities for cultural events and social bonding, for example," according to the report.

"In the majority of these leading cities, such efforts have been combined with innovative strategies to attract and retain talent, foster investment in a selective fashion [e.g. pro-sustainability], and tackle long standing issues regarding geographical inequalities and inclusion," the report said.

Here are the top 10 smart cities, according to the 2024 Smart City Index.

• Zurich, Switzerland
• Oslo, Norway
• Canberra, Australia
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Lausanne, Switzerland
• London, England
• Helsinki, Finland
• Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Notably, for the first time since the index's inception in 2019, there is an absence of North American cities in the top 20.

"Using three year moving averages (i.e. comparing a city's average ranking for the period 2021-24 to that of the period 2020-23), a significant number of US cities have been losing ground," according to the report.

"This is the case in particular for Washington DC, Denver, and Los Angeles (-12, -12, and -11 respectively), but also for San Francisco (-9), New York City (-7), and Chicago (-4)."

The highest ranking U.S. city this year is New York City which ranked 34th, followed by Boston at 36th and Washington DC, coming in at 50th place.

While European cities dominated the list, Asian cities are gaining ground too.

Here are the top 5 smart cities in Asia:

• Singapore (5th)
• Beijing (13th)
• Taipei City (16th)
• Seoul (17th)
• Shanghai (19th)

Singapore has consistently ranked among the top 10 positions since the index's inception in 2019. It ranked 7th from 2020 to 2023 — except in 2022 when no rankings were released, and jumped up two positions this year.

Taipei City has also jumped 13 positions over the last year, from 29th in 2023 to 16th this year.

"Cities must design and adopt strategies that can resist the test of a future plagued with growing uncertainties, " said Bruno Lanvin, president of the Smart City Observatory.

"Health-related concerns remain high, while climate-related ones grow even larger; a mix complicated by renewed international tensions. Trust and good governance are growing in importance, and the significance of Al in city design and management is set to increase," he said in the report.

"Counterintuitive as it may sound, Al can help cities to become more human-centric," Lanvin added.

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Richmond, one of nation's top 10 beer scenes, now offers Beer Trail Passport

RICHMOND, Va. -- More than 16 million people visit the Richmond Region each year, according to Richmond Region Tourism. The group says there's one thing that seems to be luring in more and more out-of-towners.

"People come here just for the beer," said Katherine O'Donnell, Richmond Region Tourism's Executive Director.

O'Donnell says the 30+ breweries found in the Richmond area have helped take back what was lost during the pandemic.

"We actually bounced back really fast, faster than a lot of parts of the state and other places in the country. It took about 18 months for us to recover, and hotel occupancy and collections have been up ever since, and we're setting record levels," O'Donnell said.

Richmond was recently rated one of the top 10 beer scenes in the country by USA Today.

Now, Richmond Region Tourism is tracking how many people may be traveling here for beer through its new online Beer Trail Passport , which gives users points and prizes for each spot they visit.

"We can track people where they're coming from, and we know folks are here or are interested, from out of town, based on the stats," O'Donnell said.

Though the exact data on how many people come specifically for beer is still being collected, O'Donnell said the past two years have broken pre-pandemic records.

In 2022, about 17.5 million people visited the area, spending about $9.5 million per day.

In Fiscal Year 2023, hotels generated $35 million in lodging taxes, a 16% increase over the last year.

O'Donnell said visitor volume is still below pre-pandemic levels.

“The area that’s probably the slowest in terms of leisure travel is the more economy-cost conscious traveler, might be cutting back, because of inflation, but by and large, people are still traveling, they still have that pent up demand from when they had to stay home during Covid," O'Donnell said.

With investments in Richmond's Diamond District and City Center coming alongside Henrico's Green City and Chesterfield's River City Sportsplex plans, O'Donnell said she expects the trend found in the tap rooms to continue.

“We actually are above the national average in people who come to visit their friends and family here, so that tells us that the people who live here are proud of where they live and they’re inviting their family to come," O'Donnell said. "I think that for us is really gratifying to see, the people who live here love it here and they want to bring their friends and family to come and breweries are a great place to do that.”

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I Spent Hours Reading Shopper Reviews to Find the 10 Best Travel Accessories at Amazon — From $10

Who better to trust than travelers in the real world?

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

As a travel writer, it’s important that I have the right travel essentials to match my on-the-go lifestyle. I rely on accessories that are durable enough to go the distance and can make my adventures as seamless as possible. And one of my go-to methods for finding them is checking out the trending and top-rated Amazon items recommended by fellow travelers and shoppers — because who better to trust than those actively testing products like luggage and comfortable clothing in the real world? 

And because it’s my full-time job to know the best deals on the internet, I spent hours combing through Amazon’s shopper review section to curate a list of the 10 most-loved, highly-sought-after products from the retailer. These items range from a travel backpack that one shopper dubbed as a “traveler’s dream come true” to a surprisingly spacious $10 carry-on duffel bag with thousands of perfect ratings. What's even more exciting is that many of these highly-rated items are currently up to 70 percent off, making now the perfect time to grab them and enhance your spring travels.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Double Spinner Carry-on

Need a luggage upgrade? Look no further than this Samsonite carry-on, which has not only earned a spot on Amazon’s best-selling carry-on list , but has also received over 9,000 perfect ratings from reviewers. In fact, even a former full-time traveler has praised this bag : “After years of flying to four to five different cities every week (most of which had connecting flights and drives involved), I know my suitcases, and this one is the best.” That same shopper also highlighted their favorite features of the bag: its four 360-degree wheels that glide smoothly over everything from “carpet, regular floors, and sidewalks,” its spacious interior, and its stunning look that remained intact despite years of travel.  

Even more, this bag has earned high marks from Travel + Leisure editors, who dubbed it the best overall choice in their hardside luggage test . According to testers, “Earning perfect scores across the board, this standout suitcase is compact yet spacious, with a high-strength thermoplastic shell and smooth-gliding wheels.” It also happens to be on sale for $150 this week.

Apple AirTag 4-pack

Garnering nearly 100,000 five-star ratings, Apple AirTags have been called everything from a “ lifesaver ” and “ the best invention ever ” to “ the ultimate tracking device ” by Amazon shoppers. It’s clear that travelers can’t get enough of these Bluetooth tracking devices, as they effortlessly sync with the Find My app on Apple devices to provide precise, real-time tracking of your belongings. And, with this pack of four (that happens to be $20 off), you can head out with the peace of mind that all of your personal belongings are accounted for. 

Narwey Foldable Duffel Bag

After reading through dozens of duffel bag reviews, I’ve come to the conclusion that this one is the best of the best. At a mere 18 inches by 13 inches by 6.3 inches, the bag has a reputation for fitting “ a week’s worth of clothes, plus toiletries and shoes ,” — all while meeting the requirements for a personal item on Spirit and Frontier flights. It’s on sale for $10 and available in 42 different hues and prints, so you might as well snag one for you and your travel mates. 

Bagail Packing Cube Set

Packing cubes are an essential travel accessory for efficient and space-saving organization in your suitcase. And while there are plenty of packs to choose from, I’m particularly enchanted by this set that one reviewer claimed “changed [their] life” thanks to its ability to keep your items separated, compressed, and properly stored. Plus, you can get them double discounted for $16 thanks to an on-site coupon. 

Asenlin Travel Backpack 40L

If you’ve never traveled with a backpack, then let this be your sign to start. With their ergonomic design, backpacks serve as a roomy yet compact option to transport your belongings, all while helping you skew past unnecessary bag fees. This Aselin Travel Backpack comes with a 40-liter carrying capacity that one customer called “a traveler’s dream come true” because of its “spacious and thoughtful design” and water-resistant material. 

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

As important as it is to enjoy your trip, it’s just as vital to stay alert and vigilant no matter where you go. I like to keep a plethora of safety devices in my travel bag, but if I were to prioritize one, I’d recommend this Amazon best-selling personal alarm that reviewers say gives them “ peace of mind ” while they travel. And as a cherry on top? It’s 20 percent off. 

Anlmz Store 3-in-1 Charging Station

Keeping a full charge on your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods can be challenging. And that's before you factor in keeping track of a bunch of their different charging cables in your carry-on. Fortunately, Amazon has a three-in-one solution that charges your tech together in one convenient spot. And, one shopper loved it so much during a recent trip that they are “buying another one just to keep in [their] carry-on so they always have it for traveling.” Be sure to clip the on-site coupon so you can score an extra 30 percent off. 

JBL Tune 710BT Wireless Over-ear Headphones

To me, entertainment ranks high on my list of must-haves for a comfortable journey, and that typically begins with a great pair of headphones. But contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars for a high-quality pair. I personally love this pair of over-ear noise-canceling headphones for its stellar sound quality and comfortable fit — but don’t just take my word for it; take it from the thousands of five-star shopper reviews they've earned, each one highlighting their long-lasting battery and design that does not “fall or slip off” during transit. Snag a pair to try out for yourself, considering that they’re 25 percent off today. 

Talena Belt Bag

With spring in full swing (and summer just around the corner), the key to staying cool and comfortable is by traveling as lightweight as possible. And while this means wearing garments like breezy tanks and flowy pants, this tidbit of advice also applies to the bags that we carry. So what are Amazon travelers loving this season? This versatile $10 bag that can be worn as a belt bag, crossbody, or shoulder bag. Shoppers say that it “holds a lot” of stuff and that they can “fit a small wallet, notepad, travel-sized make-up, sunglasses, readers, and so much more into this bag.” Even more, its straightforward design can be styled up, down, and be worn virtually anywhere. 

Napfun Travel Neck Pillow

As a frequent traveler, I know the importance of getting good rest while on the go. That's why one of my priorities when I first embarked on my mission to find the best Amazon travel accessories was to track down a great, shopper-loved neck pillow. And let me tell you, I hit the jackpot with this incredible $15 one from Napfun. It is designed with memory foam and chin support for unbelievable, next-level comfort, and is regarded by one shopper as a “great pillow for travel,” a title that they gave it after they were able to rest comfortably on a 20-hour flight to Alaska. They added that flying with the pillow “was optimal in my ability to sleep on my longest connection flight, which was six hours.”

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