top 10 places to visit vietnam

17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

1. Halong Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on March 25, 2024

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

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

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

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

17. Da Nang

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

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

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

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

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

16. Ha Giang Loop

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Bai Tu Long Bay

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

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

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

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

14. Tam Coc

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Phu Quoc

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

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

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

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

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

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

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

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

8. Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

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

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

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

7. Mekong Delta

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

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

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

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

6. Nha Trang

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

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

1. Ha Long Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Last Updated: January 23, 2024

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

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

Without hesitation, we can honestly say Vietnam is.

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

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

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

Check out our ultimate guide to  travelling in Vietnam!

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It is worth it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our article about  scuba diving in Nha Trang.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

The Perfect Vietnam Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Weeks

Canyoning In Dalat – What It Is Really Like

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The perfect 3 days in ho chi minh city itinerary [2024], fresh food with a view – the wild boar eco farm, 40 photos that prove why vietnam is simply awesome, from tan hoa village to tu lan caves – the local’s role, 17 thoughts on “33 best things to do in vietnam (epic 2024 guide)”.

This is a really cool page, tons of information but does not “narrow it down” at all.

Hey there! You’ve got to check out this awesome video about the best places to visit in Vietnam. It’s such a fantastic virtual tour of 7 must-see destinations that will make you want to pack your bags and book a trip right away! The visuals are stunning, and the narration is engaging and informative. I highly recommend it!

What would you recommend as a 5-day itinerary to Vietnam with this being the first trip there?

Woah – Vietnam has their own Giant’s Causeway?! That’s really cool, I haven’t seen anything like that outside of Ireland, cool to see in other parts of the world.

Indeed it does. It was really cool to see and quiet compared to the one in Ireland. All the best

Hi together 🙂 We’re currently in Hoi An and I started to read your blog.. You two are fascinating and I’m really happy that I found your page. I putted to many cool waypoints on the map for our trip to phu quoc 😀 Thanks a lot for the valuable tips and keep traveling with so much love and enthusiasm! Greetings from a Swiss couple Vietnam 🙂

Hi Pascel, hope you are having a great trip. Thank you for your kind words. So glad you found us. If you have any questions about Vietnam let us know. Happy travels

I should’ve looked at this list before I went to Vietnam this winter! I’ll have to look at it again when I plan my next trip there.

In the meantime, thanks for writing this informative post!

There is always next time. Hope you had a great trip 🙂

Thanks for your useful information, by the way I also save some other reliable sources written by the local about best time to visit Vietnam or destinations to visit in Vietnam.

Glad you liked the article. Have a great time in Vietnam

This is a great list of adventures to have in Vietnam. We’re currently in Mui Ne heading north and ill keep your list handy for things to do as we move up. Im really excited to move through through the center and north of vietnam again. Thanks!

Hi Christine, So awesome I hope you are having a blast in Vietnam. It is our favourite country. Don’t miss Phong Nha. That is a special place. We have a lot on Vietnam on our site and if you have any questions don’t hesitate to send us a message. 🙂

I missed your reply to this, we did go to Phong Nha, it was amazing! My fav place in Vietnam. I dont know why i missed it on my first trip here. We did the paradise, phong nha and dark caves. A must see in Vietnam!

So glad you had a great time. 🙂

Oh, very this is a very detailed guide to Vietnam. It’s useful for those who are about to travel around Vietnam. Keep up with your good work!

Thanks Joanne. We loved travelling Vietnam for 7 months and can’t wait to get back there one day.

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Best places to visit in Vietnam

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

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

Table of Contents

Ha Noi City

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

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

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

Hanoi is the capital and cultural center of Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

apa is a picturesque town in the highlands of northern Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mekong Delta is a rich and colorful region in southern Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I want to travel Vietnam as a tourist, pls send me details how to proceed & what will be the cost per person for 5 days & 6 nights

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12 best places to visit in Vietnam on your next trip

Enjoy hanoi and halong bay — then step beyond the tourist trail to find more magic in the highlands, islands, history and culture of this captivating nation.

W ith 99 million souls and a coastline that wrinkles 2,000 miles along the country from north to south, there are plenty of people to meet and a lot to see, do and eat in Vietnam. I first visited in 2004 and have returned many times since. It’s easy to follow the tourist trail of historic Hanoi, ethereal Halong Bay, shopping emporium Hoi An and buzzy Ho Chi Minh City, but push a little further and you’ll be rewarded with some dazzling and memorable experiences.

Mine have been when I’ve gone the extra mile, quite literally: a magical three-day cruise to the outer battlements of Halong Bay; a thrilling motorbike trip through the sugarloaf peaks and beyond in remote mountainous Ha Giang; meeting the last wild elephant catcher in Yok Don National Park. Taking in the elaborate mausoleums and sites of Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty deepened my understanding; sighting the endemic, critically endangered Cat Ba langur on Cat Ba island was exciting; and I loved exploring the history, food and pristine beaches of Con Dao island. And of course the irresistible, fragrant food, delicious coffee, craft cocktails and beer will lead you everywhere.

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If you only have . . .

One week Hanoi, a boat trip to Halong Bay and the rice fields of the Mai Chau Valley

Two weeks After Hanoi, Halong Bay and Mai Chau, hop on trains and domestic flights to visit imperial Hue, the DMZ, the ruins of My Son, gorgeous Hoi An and energetic Ho Chi Minh City

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Three weeks Take in Ha Giang in the far north, Dalat in the Central Highlands or the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a beach break, and a boat trip along the Mekong Delta or a couple of days on remote Con Dao island

A tight budget Balance domestic flights with long-distance train journeys and Vietnam’s excellent network of hop-on hop-off “open tickets” on air-conditioned minibuses

Hanoi is noisy, traffic-choked and beautiful all at once. The thousand-year-old city of lakes, founded on a bend of the Red River, is full of history, charm, museums, shops, markets and wonderful street food. Don’t miss the Old Quarter, the heart of the city, where you’ll find lots of food, hotels and temples cheek-by-jowl with shops. Learn how to dodge the motorbikes while on a street-food tour or exploring the ochre-hued French colonial villas, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the “Hanoi Hilton” prison museum of Hoa Lo and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Make it happen

The Sofitel Legend Metropole is where Graham Greene stayed in 1951 while working for Paris Match . It’s the city’s top address and is elegant throughout

Exodus’ 14-day Vietnam Adventure takes in two full days in Hanoi with a comprehensive city tour

2. Ha Giang

Ha Giang is Vietnam ’s northernmost region, pushing up against the border with China. It’s an otherworldly landscape of sugarloaf peaks, mountain passes and rice paddies carved into impossibly steep mountains. Find villages of Red Dzao, Flower Hmong and other local minorities, markets, eco-stays and a window into a rural world of timeless traditions such as weaving. Don’t miss the palace of the Hmong king who raked in revenue from opium farming. En route, stop at the dazzling rice paddy region of Mu Cang Chai.

Panhou Retreat, up in the mountains, is a peaceful nature resort with bungalows dotted amid the trees, a spa, and hot springs

Inside Asia’s 11-day Vietnam’s Northern Soul is an in-depth exploration of the region taking in trekking, rice paddies, tea terraces, markets and visits to remote villages

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3. Pu Luong and Mai Chau

Not too far from Hanoi are these idyllic retreats found amid neon-green rice paddies. At Pu Luong nature reserve, with its homestays and eco-retreats, trek past the paddies and orchards of the Muong people and cruise down a river on a traditional bamboo raft in a landscape woven with traditional water wheels. This area is home to rare Asian black bear, Owston’s palm civet and endangered Delacour’s langur. North is the exceptionally beautiful Mai Chau Valley, a serene landscape carved in rice paddies. Stay at the lovely Avana Retreat, built by local Hmong, White Thai and Black Thai people.

Avana Retreat is built and staffed by local people. Its beautiful thatched rooms blend with the rippling contours of rice paddies

G Adventures’ 11-day Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay and trekking Pu Luong tour is one of few that takes in trekking in Pu Luong, an overnight stay, and a barbecue lunch made by local chefs

4. Bai Tu Long Bay, Halong Bay

Boats — from junks to elegant luxury vessels — cruise through the waters of Unesco-protected Halong Bay, which is studded with thousands of craggy limestone outcrops. It’s an ethereal landscape and with each turn of weather can bring dense fog or crisp blue skies. It won’t matter — it’s all enchanting. To make the most of it, head out on a boat for at least two nights to cruise to the outer “fortress” of towers — Bai Tu Long Bay. It’s more magical and it escapes the crowds of one-day and one-night boats.

Bhaya’s Au Co Cruise sails to the outer reaches of the silent bay with wonderful close-up views, smart bedrooms and delicious, artfully presented cuisine

Audley’s 19-day Classic Vietnam tour includes two nights on the Paradise Sails boat exploring the limestone stacks and coves of the outer limits of the bay

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5. Hue and the DMZ

Hue was the cultural and political power base of the Nguyen emperors, Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty. They built a citadel, gilded in bronze, enamel and lacquer, with gates for themselves, elephants and their minions, based on the Forbidden City of Beijing. They lived in extravagant regal splendour surrounded by concubines and eunuchs. And they fashioned their last resting places, all gothic-meets-Confucius and geomantic in design, landscaped with streams, statues and elaborate graves that trace the serpentine route of Hue’s Perfume River. This city is often overlooked in favour of Hoi An as a central Vietnam stop, but don’t miss it. The thousand-plus dishes of the imperial household are still eaten, too. From here, explore the Demilitarized Zone marking the border established in 1954 between the communist north and the US-backed south.

Pilgrimage Village Boutique and Spa is an exquisite address just outside the historic centre of Hue. Think garden rooms, leafy plots, a spa and a perfect oblong pool

Original Travel’s 12-day An intro to Vietnam, North to South includes an in-depth tour of Hue’s imperial past as well as other significant buildings

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6. Danang and China beach

China beach, an 18-mile curve of golden sand along the sea, was made famous by thousands of American GIs who would sunbathe here for R&R during the Vietnam War. Today, it’s more fabulous, with some top hotel retreats, such as the Four Seasons and, hidden amid the forest of monkeys on a small peninsula, the outstanding InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula designed by Asia-based architect Bill Bensley. But there’s more — the incomparable Museum of Cham Sculpture with its beautiful carved sandstone works, the nearby Unesco-protected ruins of My Son, the spiritual capital of the Cham, an Indianised culture, and Danang’s fire-breathing Dragon Bridge.

Architect Bill Bensley has weaved his magic on the glamorous InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula. Come for the cute funicular, the pool villas and the restaurant

Explore’s 14-day Inside Vietnam is one of few tours taking in the Cham museum, the My Son ruins and an optional visit to My Lai, site of a wartime massacre

• Five of the best backpacking routes in southeast Asia

Yes, it’s touristy, but that’s because it’s gorgeous. The ancient port of Hoi An is filled with Chinese temples, large merchant houses, and hundreds of tailors and craft shops. One-storey ochre-coloured homes line the small lantern-lit streets along the Unesco-protected town’s Thu Bon river. Come for the atmosphere, tailor-made clothes, and the delicious street food including some tantalising local dishes. Nearby An Bang beach provides downtime, too.

The Four Seasons Nam Hai is a sublime beachfront property. Large, gorgeous villas dot the peaceful gardens, where pools and coconut palms facing the sea

Wendy Wu’s 12-day Vietnam at a Glance ensures time spent immersed in Hoi An, meeting artisans and visiting a farming village — plus plenty left for tailoring

8. Ninh Van Bay

Ninh Van Bay is a divine little hideaway close to the major seaside resort of Nha Trang. Escape from the city to this peninsula, just north, for some serious beach time. An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay is dreamy with a boho vibe, while Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is on a sublime stretch of sand with villas tucked away between and behind huge boulders. It’s just you, the beach, the restaurant and your butler at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. The waterfalls and forests of the peninsula can be explored too.

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a barefoot getaway with villas and their private pools perched on huge biscuit-coloured boulders facing the sea. It’s boho, supremely beautiful and comes with butler service

Scott Dunn’s 11-night luxury Limitless Vietnam indulges with four nights at Ninh Van Bay and organised activities

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Dalat is a quirky place. A former French hill station up in the pine-scented highlands with a central lake, it’s ringed by attractive early 20th-century homes and villas (some hotels, some museums), markets, flower gardens and waterfalls. There’s even a golf course. Today, the city is filled with bars and cute cafés and is a great base from which to explore a load of kooky spots including the Crazy House homestay, cactus and coffee playground Kombi Land and a dragon statue made from thousands of glass bottles. Don’t miss checking out the French-built railway station, a Wes Anderson shoo-in.

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa is a cute little hilltop hotel fashioned from an ochre-hued villa

Intrepid Travel’s 15-day Premium Vietnam in Depth offers plenty of time to explore Dalat, its quirky sites and coffee culture

10. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh is a heady city of nine million people and eight million motorbikes. It has brilliant street food, is draped in a fantastic array of fairy lights and is fuelled by a growing craft beer, spirit and cocktail scene and a thrilling, infectious energy. What two decades ago was a fairly low-rise city has now been dwarfed by an army of high rises. Don’t miss exploring the city on the back of a motorbike, visiting the top sites, and taking a trip out to the Viet Cong tunnels at Cu Chi and the fantastically decorated Cao Dai cathedral at Tay Ninh. Sampling the food and coffee goes without saying.

The Park Hyatt Saigon isn’t the best-looking from the outside. Step inside, though, and it’s a dazzler. Its restaurants and bars are top city addresses and the lovely pool is a boon on humid days. It’s right in the heart of the city, too, just behind the opera house.

Riviera Travel’s 16-day Vietnam and Cambodia tour three night-stay in Ho Chi Minh City ensures plenty of time to take in the sites and the food and explore the tunnels at Cu Chi

11. Mekong Delta

The liquid fingers of the Mekong River slink through southern Vietnam into the sea. Here you’ll find a mostly rural way of life with floating markets, temples and churches, and market farms harvesting coconut, bananas, mangos and veg. It’s not so much specific sites but a dip into the region’s culture — a mix of Cham, Khmer and Vietnamese, war history (Xeo Quyt’s Viet Cong forest bunkers are fascinating), wetlands and birds, and delicious food.

The prettily illuminated, French-inspired Victoria Can Tho faces the waterfront in lush grounds on the edge of Can Tho city. You can tour the waterways and floating markets of the delta using its own boats.

On Wendy Wu’s ten-day Magnificent Mekong cruise on the eco-friendly Victoria Mekong you’ll visit floating markets and local temples, meet artisans and explore wetlands

12. Con Dao archipelago

Con Dao was once a prison island run by the French and then the Americans. Today, this remote island off the south coast of Vietnam is a nature paradise, internationally recognised (by Ramsar) wetland area and home to the most important location for nesting sea turtles in Vietnam. Hike, snorkel, dive, sunbathe on the beautiful beaches, visit the turtle sites, and watch the squid boats at work. Visit its museum and sites, too: the cemetery of Vietnamese martyrs’ graves features seats built for their ghosts. You’ll want to stay at the fabulous Six Senses Con Dao.

The remote, secluded hideaway of Six Senses Con Dao is a luxury treat. The contemporary, glassy villas with private pools are right on the sugar-soft island sands; excellent food, the spa, and snorkelling are on tap.

Black Tomato’s 14-day Ultimate Vietnam: A luxury holiday from top to tail features fabulous beach time at the end of your trip at the exquisite Six Senses Con Dao

blacktomato.com

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

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Vietnam is a stunningly beautiful and diverse country with an amazing landscape, lovely people, and delectable cuisine. It’s truly one of the most amazing countries in the world. If it’s not yet on your bucket list, it should be. But with so much to explore, deciding where to go in Vietnam can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting.

Vietnam offers something for every taste – from trekking in the rugged rice terraces of northern Vietnam to lounging on stunning white sand beaches in the south. Whether you choose to explore Vietnam’s history, delve deeper into its expansive food scene, or just get lost in the winding alleys and never-ending motorbike traffic, you’re sure to find plenty to do in Vietnam.

Having lived in Ho Chi Minh City for two years and traveled the country extensively, we have compiled a list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

Starting in the north and working your way south, you can explore all of these amazing Vietnamese destinations. Be prepared to fall in love with Vietnam just like we have!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

How Long to Spend in Vietnam

Vietnam is a surprisingly large country with a lot of amazing places to visit and fun things to do. We recommend spending at least a month in Vietnam, which gives you time to explore a bit of northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay), central Vietnam (Hue, Danang, and Hoi An), and southern Vietnam (Saigon, Dalat, Mui Ne, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc).

Of course, we realize that many people don’t have the flexibility to spend an entire month traveling, which is why we put together an awesome 2-week Vietnam itinerary for all of our friends and family that have visited while we have been living here. It focuses on north and central Vietnam, which is what most visitors to Vietnam seem to prefer for their first trip.

Visa Requirements for Vietnam

Unlike neighboring Thailand and Cambodia , most visitors can’t simply arrive in Vietnam and get stamped into the country. You’ve got a bit more work ahead of you. Even US Citizens will need a visa for Vietnam .

The two most common visa options for tourists are the eVisa and the Visa on Arrival, both of which require approval before your arrival in Vietnam.

If you’re planning to visit Vietnam for 30 days or less and do not require a multiple-entry visa, then we recommend the eVisa. If your trip is longer than 30 days or if you need to exit and re-enter Vietnam for any reason, then your only option is the Visa on Arrival.

Steps for Obtaining a 30-Day Single-Entry eVisa

• Visit this website:  https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt . This is the only official government website. All others only look official but are run by tourist agencies.
• Upload your passport data page image and a passport photo (straight looking without glasses).
• Pay the $25 USD fee by credit card.
• You will be emailed a registration code which you can use to check the status of your eVisa .
• Wait 3 working days for processing.
• Once approved, print your e-visa, and remember to pack it in your carry-on luggage!

Steps to Obtaining a multi-entry 30-day or 90-day Visa on Arrival

• Find an online service like Vietnam Visa Pro or one of the countless other options.
• Complete the visa application.
• Pay the fee.
• Wait 2 working days (usually less) for the letter of approval.
• Print the approval letter.
• Get passport photos taken if you don’t have them already. If you forget this step, you can get them taken at the airport for an inflated charge of ~$5 per photo (but it’s best not to rely on this option).
• Pack your approval letter, passport photos, and cash. Make sure they are all in your carry-on/hand luggage!
• At the airport, you’ll pay a stamping fee – either $25 or $50, depending on the length of visa you’re applying for (see below). Be sure to bring US Dollars in reasonably good condition – bills with no rips or writing.

You can find more information about the Vietnam visa process in our must-read post on Vietnam Travel Tips .

Getting Around Vietnam

Vietnam is a large and rather long country which can make getting from the northern end to the southern end of the country quite daunting. We often find that traveling between major cities such as Saigon, Danang, and Hanoi is best done by airplane.

VietJet is a very affordable budget carrier with hundreds of low-cost flights throughout Vietnam. However, our experience has been that the flights are often delayed – sometimes for several hours. You’ll also need to pay for any checked luggage on VietJet, and if you’re checking more than one bag it can get quite expensive.

Vietnam Airlines is a bit more expensive, but you’ll have two checked bags included in the price of your ticket, and you’re much more likely to arrive at your next destination on time.

We always use Skyscanner.com to check flight prices when we travel – it’s our favorite comparison search engine.

Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

When traveling between smaller towns and cities in Vietnam, you’ll need to travel by bus or minivan. There are plenty of luxury bus companies that will get you where you are going on time and in comfort. Unfortunately, there are also a number of less reputable bus companies that will claim to provide comparable service but then fail to deliver.

The biggest challenge when traveling in Vietnam is finding a travel agent who you can trust. We prefer to book our bus, train, and ferry tickets online through Bookaway Vietnam . They sell tickets for over 200 routes in Vietnam and have a website that makes it really easy to compare all the transportation options to your next destination in Vietnam (and other Southeast Asian countries).

Bookaway also offers 24/7 support via phone or chat, and you can even cancel your booking for free up to 48 hours before departure!

Weather in Vietnam

Vietnam has quite a diverse climate, depending on which region you choose to visit. But overall, the country has a mild tropical or subtropical climate. Hot, humid, and occasionally rainy, be sure to bring an umbrella, especially if you visit from July to November.

Northern Vietnam has four seasons, and during the winter months (December – February), it can get down to 40° F or even colder in the mountains. And the summer months (June – August) are quite hot, in the 90° F range. The autumn time sees a bit of rain which can make a trip to Sapa quite a muddy experience.

Central Vietnam has warm temperatures year-round, and in the summer months (June – August), it can be almost unbearably hot. The weather from November to April is a bit cooler and drier. And southern Vietnam has a wet season (May – October) and a dry season (November – April).

Money in Vietnam

The currency in Vietnam is the Dong (VND). At the time of writing (August of 2018), the conversation rate was about 23,305 VND to $1 USD. So if we say that something costs 50,000 VND, that’s just about $2 USD.

Vietnam is a cash-driven country, and it’s rare to find restaurants, bars, or shops that take Visas. Most ATMs will only let you take out a maximum of 3,000,000 VND (~$130 USD), and many will only give you 2,000,000 VND (~$85 USD) at a time. You’ll be charged a 3% transaction fee each time you use one.

Be sure to check with your bank prior to departing to ensure that they refund international ATM charges. And that they don’t charge their own international fees.

We love the Charles Schwab debit card that offers zero international fees and refunds all of your ATM fees. And the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card is best for earning points.

We use the Chase card for booking hotels and tours and our Charles Schwab card for getting money out of the ATM.

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is the second-largest city in terms of population (Ho Chi Minh City is number one). It is the jumping-off point to visit the beautiful surrounding areas of Sapa, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh, but it’s worth spending a few days in this bustling city as well.

One of the highlights of Hanoi is its cuisine . You can eat what is possibly the best bun cha in all of Vietnam at the same restaurant where Anthony Bourdain and Barack Obama dined together. And you can try another local delicacy – snake !

Hanoi is a big city but it’s also full of charm. Hoàn Kiếm Lake sits in the center of the Old Quarter, and it’s an idyllic place for an afternoon stroll. There are parks and local markets to explore, as well as plenty of tourist hot spots.

During your time in Hanoi, you absolutely must see the “Hanoi Hilton,” where John McCain was held prisoner after his plane was shot down during the war. And the Temple of Literature is both beautiful and peaceful – it’s ideal to visit in the early morning. Read all about our other favorite things to do in Hanoi here!

The Sapa region (sometimes spelled Sa Pa) is home to several minority groups who earn a living through farming and tourism. The town is perched high on a hill, and the views of the Muong Hoa Valley below are quite incredible. Lush green rice terraces stretch across the landscape as far as the eye can see.

Most people travel to Sapa to go trekking through the remote villages. But there is so much more to see and do here than most people realize. You can take a cable car ride up to the top of Fansipan Mountain. At over 10,000 feet, it is the highest mountain in the Indochinese Peninsula. You can also do a self-guided (downhill) trek to the Cat Cat tourist village. Then, catch a motorbike taxi back up.

The shopping in Sapa is amazing and you should definitely purchase some of the colorful handmade textiles. And if you really want to treat yourself, consider booking a few nights at the Topas Ecolodge , where you can gaze out at the rice paddies while lounging in the pristine infinity pool. 

Sapa is one of our favorite places to visit in Vietnam and should definitely rank high on your list of things to see during your trip. Read all about what to do in Sapa and how to choose a trekking guide !

3. Halong Bay

Halong Bay is one of the most picturesque (and touristy) areas in Vietnam. In fact, many travelers have Halong Bay at the very top of their list of places to visit in Vietnam. Cruising on a liveaboard boat through the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay is definitely an experience that you won’t soon forget.

Choosing the best Halong Bay Cruise can be difficult. While there are dozens of boats to choose from, most of the cruises offer a similar itinerary. The difference is in the quality of meals and onboard accommodation. In Halong Bay, you’ll find everything from floating hostels that cater to those on a backpacker budget to luxurious 5-star cruises.

Since Halong Bay has such a unique landscape and there are few places like it in the world, we recommend splurging on a luxury cruise experience where you’ll be treated like royalty. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

4. Lan Ha Bay

If you want to have the Halong Bay experience but without the crowds, consider booking a cruise around Lan Ha Bay instead. The scenery of Lan Ha Bay is quite similar to Halong Bay, with stunning limestone cliffs rising out of the water, but it’s not as popular with tourists (yet).

There are many luxury cruise boats in Lan Ha Bay to choose from, and you’ll love that the daily excursions are more personalized than the activities around Halong Bay. Lan Ha Bay is also a bit further from the mainland, so you’ll spend a bit more time cruising on the boat. Because of this, we recommend a 2-day/3-night cruise.

If you’re looking for a relaxing cruise where you can sip wine at sunset on your own balcony while gazing out at the beautiful landscape, a trip to Lan Ha Bay is for you!

5. Ninh Binh

This beautiful region, just two hours south of Hanoi, is full of lush green rice paddies in the shadow of massive towering limestone cliffs. Life moves a bit slower here. The people are friendlier. Traffic jams generally involve herds of goats rather than cars. You’ll feel all around happier, relaxed, and more at peace.

You’ll want to rent a motorbike in Ninh Binh since it’s the easiest way to get around. You can hike up to the Mua Caves, where the view of the landscape below is absolutely breathtaking. And you can enjoy the scenery from the water on a slow boat ride. The countryside surrounding Ninh Binh is also full of countless picturesque temples and pagodas.

Many people condense their time in Ninh Binh to only a day trip. But we’d recommend spending at least three nights here if you have the time to spare. The region of Ninh Binh tops the list of our favorite places to visit in Vietnam. You definitely shouldn’t miss it!

Read all about where to stay, where to eat, and what to do in the stunning region of Ninh Binh !

6. Phong Nha

One of the most unique places to visit in Vietnam is the Phong Nha region. It is famous for its massive national park – Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, it is home to the oldest karst mountains in Asia. There are hundreds of massive, complex cave systems as well.

Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, and Black Cave are the most popular and easily accessible caves in the area. You can visit all three on your own – no need to hire a tour guide.

Phong Nha is a bit off the typical tourist track, so it’s a little more difficult to get to and much less crowded than some of Vietnam’s other top destinations.

If you enjoy adventurous cave explorations, then you should definitely add Phong Nha to your Vietnam bucket list!

History buffs will love the Imperial City of Hue. It was the seat of Nguyễn Dynasty emperors from 1802 to 1945. There is also a beautiful walled complex to explore. Hue has so much history to learn about and gain a greater understanding of the history of Vietnam.

Hue was also right in the center of the clash of northern and southern Vietnam during the American War (or Vietnam War as you may know it), so many of the sites have had to be reconstructed. The longest and bloodiest battle took place here, but thankfully many of the historical sites remain intact.

If Hue is on your Vietnam travel itinerary, read all about what to do while visiting !

The city of Da Nang (also known as Danang) is full of lavish beachfront resorts and is the perfect place if you’re looking to get a little rest and relaxation. Da Nang is getting more and more visitors of late with the construction of the Golden Bridge – a giant bridge that appears to be held up by two hands .

It’s also the southern gateway to the spectacular drive over the Hai Van Pass . But there is so much more to see and do in this busy city, so plan on spending a few days here during your trip. You can hike through the Marble Mountains, see a dragon bridge breathe fire, sample the delectable cuisine, or just lounge on the beach.

Read all about what to do and where to stay during your trip to Da Nang !

Hoi An is a darling little touristy town in central Vietnam that is a must-visit during your trip! The pedestrian-friendly downtown area is famous for the beautiful yellow French colonial-style buildings that line the streets.

Plus, it’s full of cute boutiques, quaint coffee shops, and delicious restaurants. In the evenings, the riverfront comes alive with vibrantly colored lanterns and a lively night market.

The most popular activities in Hoi An include taking a cooking class, biking through the countryside, going on a photography tour , getting a dress or suit tailored, taking a day trip to visit the nearby My Son ruins, and shopping! Hoi An also has amazing dishes that are delicious and difficult (even impossible) to find in other cities around Vietnam. You must try them all!

Hoi An is one of our favorite cities in Vietnam and is not to be missed during your trip. It’s our favorite place to take friends and family when they visit from out of town. Read all about what to do, where to eat, and where to stay in Hoi An !

10. An Bang Beach

When you get tired of the crowded, touristy Old Town, make the 10-minute drive to the neighboring An Bang Beach. Here you’ll find a peaceful sandy beach and quaint local restaurants and bars. Plus, there are several beach clubs where you can use the pool for the day for a nominal fee. It’s good if you’re looking for a change of scenery.

When we visit Hoi An, we always choose to stay in An Bang Beach. Then, we just make the 10-minute Grab ride into Hoi An every evening for dinner and night market shopping. We love that An Bang has far fewer tourists and some amazing beachfront resorts with pristine pools at reasonable prices.

Even if you decide to stay in Hoi An, you’ll want to take a day trip to An Bang. There, you can enjoy the beach during your trip! Check out our complete guide to An Bang Beach , which includes our favorite resorts, restaurants, and bars.

Mui Ne is a little beach town that is incredibly popular with windsurfers and kiteboarders. It has perfect windy conditions and a sandy beach break. Even if you aren’t into water sports, Mui Ne boasts a beautiful sandy beach and nearby sand dunes. Here, you can enjoy the sunrise, take a lovely hike through a stream, and explore ancient ruins.

Mui Ne is the perfect place for a relaxing beach getaway during your vacation in Vietnam!

12. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Saigon (officially “Ho Chi Minh City”) is a bustling metropolitan city in the south of Vietnam. It has an amazing food scene , it is a popular place for westerners to open up craft breweries, and there are diverse neighborhoods to explore.

Ho Chi Minh City, or HCMC as it’s often called, has a large international airport. It’s often a jumping-off point to explore other areas of the country. You can easily see the highlights of the city in just a few days, so there’s no need to spend a lot of time here.

There are several tourist attractions in HCMC, including the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. But we would argue that the best things to do in Saigon involve coffee, food, beer, and shopping ! We visited the top craft breweries and the best coffee shops in HCMC. We compiled our thoughts on the ambiance and options at each. Enjoy drinking your way through this big, busy city!

13. The Mekong Delta

Vietnam’s Mekong Delta is an area in southern Vietnam that covers over 15,000 square miles. It is where the many rivers provide ideal farming conditions. Many of the fruits and vegetables that are sold in markets around Vietnam come from the Mekong Delta.

Tourists love to visit the Delta to see the famous floating markets where the locals buy and sell fresh produce. You can also take a rowboat ride through the winding river canals. Most people visit the Mekong Delta on a day trip. But since it’s one of the best places to visit in Vietnam, it’s definitely worth spending a few days here!

The city of Dalat is located in southern Vietnam’s central highlands. It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re craving cooler temperatures and outdoor activities. If you’ve spent a bit of time in the concrete jungle that is Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find Dalat to be a breath of fresh air (literally).

Dalat is home to Vietnamese wine (it’s terrible, take our word for it), Dalat donuts, avocado ice cream, and other yummy culinary concoctions. These are difficult to find anywhere else in the country. It’s also where you’ll find beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and gardens. Even though the weather in Dalat is typically colder than in other parts of southern Vietnam, you’ll want to spend most of your vacation enjoying the great outdoors.

Check out our list of the best things to see and do in Dalat to help plan your trip!

15. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is an island off the southern coast of Vietnam (well, technically, it’s off the coast of Cambodia). It is the place to go if you want to visit a tropical paradise during your vacation. Even though Vietnam has a huge amount of coastline, many of the beaches actually aren’t ideal for a relaxing getaway. But that’s not the case in Phu Quoc.

Here you’ll find white sandy beaches, ideal diving and snorkeling conditions, yummy seafood, and some fun activities to keep you busy. Rent a motorbike and cruise around the island, stopping along the way to explore the temples and enjoy an iced coffee on the beach.

And if you want to pamper yourself during your trip to Vietnam, Phu Quoc has some truly amazing hotels and resorts to splurge on! And since they have an airport on the island, it’s easy and cheap to book a plane ticket from HCMC.

That’s it – the best places to visit in Vietnam! Where is your favorite Vietnam destination? Let us know in the comments below.

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » 21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Vietnam (2024 • Insider Guide)

21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Vietnam (2024 • Insider Guide)

A place where street food reigns supreme, temples touch the sky, and lanterns light up streets, Vietnam is a destination made for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and foodies.

Honestly, any short description underplays how magnificent this Southeast Asian country really is. It’s so wonderful, in fact, that it can be daunting planning where to visit and what to prioritize.

Worry not: We’re here to help you craft the PERFECT itinerary by laying out twenty-one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

Whether you’re visiting to hike along the ricefields of Sa Pa, sail between stalagmites in Ha Long Bay, or sip on coconuts on Cat Ba Island, Vietnam sure is an outdoor lovers paradise. Not only for nature fans, it’s also a haven of culture and history, home to some of the world’s most famous temples and archeological ruins.

This country has some seriously interesting stories to tell! A good place to start? – Visiting some of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

1. Con Dao Islands

2. temple of literature, hanoi, 4. cat ba, ha long bay, 5. ta dung lake, 7. the mekong delta, 8. cat tien national park, 9. my son ruins, 10. the ha giang province, 11. phong nha – ke bang national park, 12. ban gioc waterfall, 13. son doong cave, 14. ninh binh, 15. phu quoc island, 16. mui ne sand dunes, 17. ho chi minh city, 18. silver waterfall, lao cai, 19. nha trang, 20. cao dai temple, long hoa, 21. ba be national park, how to see beautiful places in vietnam, final thoughts on beautiful places in vietnam.

Travelling to the Con Dao Islands has many of the classic markers of  backpacking Vietnam – peace, tranquility, and unrivaled island beauty.

Part of the Con Dao National Park, these islands include a group of sixteen islands just off the coast of southern Vietnam. Most of the beaches are uninhabited and protected as nature reserves, with their gorgeous tropical foliage, jungle animals, and sea life thriving.

You’re most likely to visit the main island of Con San, which has miles of coastal trails and other outdoor activities to engage in. This is the only island where people live, and it was once home to a French prison for Vietnamese independence fighters.

Head to Con Son Town to visit some of these prison cells, donning infamous tiger cages, for a taste of Vietnam’s colonial history. For some relaxed downtime, this island has some of the best beaches in Vietnam . Seriously, these beaches are super-duper clean, perfect for lounging in the sun and snorkeling. 

When you’ve had enough sun vibes, head for the shaded seafood restaurants lining the beach, where you can dine on the day’s freshest catch. Talk about utopia.

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There is no shortage of beautiful temples to explore in Vietnam. In fact, there are so many, it’s an almost impossible to choose the most beautiful. All I can say is that if you’re backpacking around Hanoi (and it’s likely that you are), a visit to the Temple of Literature is an absolute must. 

While it’s one of the capital’s top historical attractions, it’s not without good reason. Built over one thousand years ago in an age of sages and scholars, the temple was dedicated to Confucious and was considered Vietnam’s first university. Think of it as the birthplace of Vietnamese education.

Lying across four streets, this really is an impressive feat of architecture to witness – one of the best spots to visit in Hanoi . The temple has five inner courtyards lined with turtle steles, pavilions, and passageways.

An exquisite example of ancient Vietnamese architecture and a traditional dedication to education, the temple was once used to educate Vietnam’s royals, noble families, and elite members of society. You can really feel the energy of this ancient college.

There is something unequivocally beautiful about the Vietnamese traditional way of life. A focus on family, ancestral worship, incense burning, and rich culinary culture is just the tip of the iceberg. If this ancient lifestyle calls your name, be sure to include Sa Pa in your Southeast Asia adventure .

Hidden in a cloud of mist in the mystical Tonkinese Alps, Sa Pa is a small French town that is seen as the gateway into the mountainous region. The rice-terraced countryside is bordered by dramatic peaks, so it is no shock that this is Vietnam’s premier hiking destination.

It’s the natural beauty of the rolling green terraces that makes this agricultural region one of the top ten places to visit in Vietnam. If you’re taken in by a good adventure, exquisite views, and exciting nature, add Mount Fan Si Pan to your bucket list of adventures.

Located in the Sa Pa region, the mountain is Vietnam’s highest peak. The region is most popular with hikers and trekkers , who can follow short hikes or three-day treks between villages.

I recommend spending some real time in the region, soaking up the culture and exquisite scenery around the Hmong and Dao Hill tribal villages . Sign up for a guided tour around Sa Pa for THE ultimate Vietnamese experience.

Ha Long Bay translates to “the place of descending dragons”. Appropriately named, in my opinion! I mean, if you close your eyes and imagine a dragon’s ideal lair, it would look a lot like Ha Long Bay. 

The Cat Ba National Park is an island, part World Biosphere Reserve , and part golden beache . Surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts, Cat Ba has a small harbor town, but there really isn’t much to do here. 

Rather, spend your time exploring the wild, rocky island, which is a paradise for hikers and climbers. Oh, and the waters are just as magnificent as the land. 

The entire bay is worth a top spot on this list, with its towering limestone mountains rising seemingly impossibly from the emerald waters below. As popular as the bay might be with tourists, it is absolutely still worth visiting. You can find cozy accommodations , enjoy yummy food, and try lots of activities that really show off the place.

One of the best ways to discover the entire Ha Long Bay is to jump on an overnight junk (a type of boat that is certainly not junk) boat tour. You can then wake up between the karsts and explore the more than 1600 jungle-topped islands.

From the island of Cat Ba, you can rent a kayak and explore the kaleidoscope coral reefs, which are well protected by the park system; no wonder it’s one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

What better way to get to know inland Vietnam than with a trip to Ta Dung Lake? While most flock to the beaches of Cat Ba and Da Nang, Vietnam’s lakes have a quiet allure waiting to be explored.

From above, this might be one of the most unique-looking lakes on the planet. Made up of hundreds of small ponds, rivers, and streams, the entire lake region was created by a dam wall. As a response to rising water levels, the nearby dam overflowed and created a lake around mountains and hills, which today include over forty islands.

During the wet season, there are also different springs and waterfalls to find deep inside the forest. Camping is also popular here, with fully prepared campsites available to rent. Make sure you check all your camping gear for an epic Vietnamese adventure.

Ta Dung is also a national park, which is home to plenty of endemic plants and animals. Naturally, it also attracts a huge population of birds. So, if you’re a bird watcher, you won’t want to miss out on this day trip.

If you squint, the dam looks a bit like Ha Long Bay and has even been called the bay’s equivalent in Vietnam’s central highlands. The best way to explore this unique place in Vietnam is by boat, as you can motor your way between the islands and coves.

With a sky lit by lanterns and colonial French architecture creating some of the most beautiful streets in the world, Hoi An deservedly holds a place as one of the top ten places to visit in Vietnam.

Backpackers in Hoi An unanimously acknowledge that it tops the list of the best cities in Vietnam, for obvious reasons. What was once a French colonial settlement is now known as the “city of lanterns”. The city is small, lining the coastline with an intricate network of waterways and rivers. 

The Chinese shops, colorful temples, and charming colonial buildings, combined with Vietnamese tube houses and an iconic Japanese covered bridge, reflect the region’s history. Talk about a melting pot! Amidst all this variety, Hoi An has really comfortable accommodations that are as beautiful as the buildings around them.

The old town quarter is packed with exciting shops where you can get your own bespoke clothing, hand-made to fit. What was once a meeting place for Japanese and Chinese merchants is now packed with international travelers wanting to experience the lantern experience firsthand. And oh boy, is it an experience.

Cycle under the lantern-lit streets, walk across the iconic covered bridge and release a lantern into the water for the full experience. It really is an atmospheric wonderland that can sometimes feel like a movie set.

One of my favorite places in Vietnam, and no doubt one of the most physically astounding, is the Mekong River in the Mekong Delta. It’s a maze of winding waterways that meander through mangrove forests, lush rice fields, and past floating markets.

It’s Southeast Asia’s most famous river and one of the most productive and cultivated regions on the continent. Other than exploring the Mekong by boat, I suggest you visit the most famous floating markets of Chau Doc, Can Tho, and Cai Rang. Join this 2-day tour around the Mekong Delta to soak up all the special vibes and dive into the local culture. Get ready for an awesome time!

Let’s be honest; your guides will know what’s up and take you there before you even have to ask. Here, traders, fishmongers, and farmers come to sell and purchase fresh fruit, vegetables, and fish in a colorful exchange of produce.

It’s also a beautiful place to explore on a bike! You can roll through peaceful local villages where residents live in harmony with their giant water buffalo counterparts. Life here is guided by the ebb and flow of this natural river, which is unlike any landmark you could ever dream of visiting.

Spanning across a huge landscape of lowland tropical forest, the Cat Tien National Park is one of the most diverse and beautiful protected regions in Vietnam’s south. Here, you can lay eyes on ancient trees, well-maintained botanical gardens, and endemic and endangered wildlife.

Canoe around the Crocodile Lake, which, yes, is home to some resident crocs. Surrounded by jungle, this lake is a beautiful way to see the park from a different perspective.

If this terrifies you to the core (I get it, trust me), you could walk or ride a bike along the lush trails, while keeping an eye out for the local wildlife. If you’re wondering what to look out for, you could spot anything from pangolins to elephants to mongeese and even some rare primates.

I also recommend trekking to the magical waterfalls dotted around Cat Tien town. You can also visit an ancient archeological site housing Hindu temples from the fourth and ninth centuries. Nothing better than a site that blends natural and cultural beauty!

Here at The Broke Backpacker , we love freedom! And there’s no freedom as sweet (and CHEAP) as camping around the world.

We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…

There really is no place like the My Son Ruins. Located just a short drive from Hoi An, My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that brings the grandeur of ancient Vietnam into the 21st century.

It’s a cluster of Hindu temple ruins that were built between the fourth and fourteenth centuries by the Kings of Champa. These crumbling temples were actually used for religious ceremonies throughout history.

Walking through the ruins, you’ll pass large elephant structures, lotus-inspired stupas, and sacrificial altars. Exploring the temples by foot is the best way to see everything, and you can make your way around in under three hours.

My Son translates to “beautiful mountain” and is named after the lush jungle-covered mountain that creates the backdrop of the temples. 

They survived hundreds of years of wild weather and changing powers but were officially destroyed during the Vietnam War. Luckily, a lot was left undamaged, and you can still admire the ancient structures and imagine what the temple complex might have looked like in its heyday.

When it comes to the top ten places to visit in Vietnam, Ha Giang Province is no doubt the cool kid on the block. The province lies just northeast of Sa Pa, bordering China, and is a relatively unexplored and, therefore, untainted region. 

Vietnam’s northernmost province, Ha Giang, is a peaceful area with its unbelievable river canyon landscapes. I’d even go so far as to call this the Grand Canyon of Vietnam , with a narrow, winding river fringed by towering cliffs that ascend into farmland. 

Serpentine roads snake through the province, descending and ascending rice-terraced hills, canyons and valleys, and rugged peaks.

Driving along these narrow roads in a car or motorcycle (good vibes, but never considered safe) is an easy way to soak up the natural wonder of the province. Check out our guide on motorbiking in Vietnam to ensure a safe ride.

Quan Ba Valley, where you will find the Quan Ba Pass (also known as Heaven’s Gate, for obvious reasons once you see it), is one of the most beautiful parts of the province. It features exceptional views over the snaking rivers and terraced rice fields. Seriously, once you see this spot, you’ll understand just why it sits on the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network .

A rugged landscape of limestone mountains and deep caves in the Annamite Mountain Range, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a beautiful place to soak up Vietnam’s gorgeous countryside.

This park offers an unparalleled caving experience. If you’re an adventurers or a thrill seeker, don’t miss out on the ultimate tour of the Paradise Cave , it’s guaranteed to be the best time of your life!

Cascading across a 300-meter-wide area in Cao Bang, the Ban Gioc Waterfalls are Vietnam’s best waterfalls and one of its most impressive natural sights.

Technically, the waterfalls consist of dozens of separate spouts of water concentrated in one part of the Quay Son River, flowing from China.

Without further ado, I share with you one of my favorite places on this list of beautiful places in Vietnam, the iconic Son Doong Cave.

Believed to be the largest cave in the world (based on volume), it was only found in 1990. Truly an unbelievable sight to behold; you really can’t miss a visit to this cave in the Ke Bang National Park.

Ninh Binh is a landscape famous for its terraced rice field countryside, ancient mos-clad temples and pagodas, dense tropical jungle, and secret caves.

It is an oasis for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates unique cultural heritage. Best of all, it’s just a short drive away from Hanoi. I recommend taking this guided Ninh Binh tour to explore Mua Cave, ride a boat through the Tam Coc caves, and much more.

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There really are few places that compare to the tropical splendor of Phu Quoc Island. For the clearest water in Vietnam, this pristine beach is a haven for watersports and underwater exploration – perfect for learning how to snorkel or scuba dive. 

Highly recommended for romantic visits, spend your evenings gazing across the ocean at sunset and your days exploring the remote island jungle or enjoying the panoramic vistas from a cable car.

Mui Ne is a resort town in Southeast Vietnam famous for its beaches and sand dunes.

Other than a beach fringed by palm trees and unique rock formations, the Red Sand Dunes are a huge attraction for off-road driving and quad biking.

The metropolitan center of Ho Chi Minh City is a must-see when visiting Vietnam. Sure, there are many parts of the city that wouldn’t cut this list, but a trip to Ho Chi Minh city is undeniably unique.

It’s home to some of the country’s most beautiful buildings, parks, and river landscapes. Oh, and make sure to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the Vietnam War.

When it comes to waterfalls, there really are few that compare to the beauty of Silver Waterfall in Lao Cai. Also referred to as Thac Bac, the waterfall plummets from a height of over 200 meters through the dense and lush jungles of Sa Pa.

As far as coastal cities go, Nha Trang is one of the most unique places in Vietnam.

Best known for its golden sand beaches and crystal clear water, the city is also home to the Ponagar Temple and Long Son Pagoda . There are also a bunch of hot springs, golf courses, and amusement parks to explore here.

Not far from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cao Dai Temple is a sacred temple complex built to honor the Cao Dai faith.

Although recently built, the exquisite temple really shows off the craftsmanship of the Vietnamese, with delicate carvings and intricately painted columns of dragons, flowers, and geometric patterns. 

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

With postcard-perfect views and many endangered animals, including the Asian black bear and short-tailed pangolin, Ba Be National Park is a beautiful place to visit in Vietnam

It’s made up of lush forests, towering karsts, and serene lakes. It’s also home to the iconic Ban Gioc Waterfalls, the fourth-largest frontier waterfall on the planet.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Getting around Vietnam is pretty easy and safe. The country has plenty of airports, trains, buses, and even boats, as well as a safe national highway network. 

To get from one part of the country to another, flying will be the most convenient option. A cheap flight might cost $30 one-way for the two-hour flight. Travelling by train in Vietnam will be cheaper (around $20), but take longer (35 hours or so). This one is for the rail-die-hards or excessive budgeters.

Once in a major city, you’ll be able to use public buses to get around and can also call a Grab (Vietnam’s equivalent of Uber) when in Ho Chi Minh city, Da Nang, and Hanoi. A Grab might charge around $3 for a ten-minute drive through these cities.

Beautiful travels stay that way insured

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker’s insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is  World Nomads travel insurance , which offers various health and insurance products for travelers.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Natural beauty, buzzing cities, more culture and history than you could possibly absorb, and a food scene known as one of the world’s favorite cuisines – what’s not to love about Vietnam? It’s true that the country is famous for its natural beauty. But Vietnam truly shows off when it comes to culture, heritage, and religion.

In a colorful display of vivid cultural dress, shimmering pagodas and temples, and impressive imperial cities, there is a lot to see and even more to learn in Vietnam. 

For a dose of nature, Ha Long Bay is one of those spots that exceeds expectations. That said, a trip to Hoi An will open you up to a wealth of vibrant culture and history. For me, both of these places were equally (and uniquely) impressive.

Use these beautiful places in Vietnam to inspire your itinerary planning, and you’re bound for a good time.

• Check out the best hostels in Hanoi to kickstart your adventure.
• Know where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City BEFORE you get there… trust me.
• Find out how to stay safe in Vietnam using our Vietnam safety guide.
• Use our packing list for Vietnam to make sure you bring all the right stuff with ya.
• Explore some of the best beaches in Vietnam to experience something a lil’ more chill.
• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking Laos guide .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Joe Middlehurst

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14 Best Things to do in Vietnam in 2024

Vietnam is a country of contrasts with a wonderful mix of natural gems and vibrant urban jungles. Experience city life, where thousands of motorbikes cross the roads and bustling street markets are full of locals bent over a steaming bowl of pho. Then, explore the breathtaking scenery as you make your way through winding mountain passes, rising limestone karsts, and verdant rice paddies in beautiful shades of green. Combine all this with a rich history and incredible street food, and you have a must-visit destination! Here are all the best things to do in Vietnam .

Things to do in Vietnam

Vietnam, with its mix of rich history, culture, coasts, and landscapes, is an incredible country to visit, known to leave a lasting impression. From visiting numerous national parks, slowly drifting past the spectacular karst seascape, or driving between the rice fields and coffee plantations in the countryside, there’s so much to do.

Also read: Complete 3-week Vietnam itinerary

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world! From secluded beaches, charming floating villages, and unforgettable night skies full of stars, you’ll quickly see why this gorgeous part of Vietnam holds UNESCO status . 

Take in the calm atmosphere as you sail among thousands of majestic limestone karsts. There are nearly 2000 islands here that rise out of the calm jade-colored waters. These jagged pinnacles have existed for over 500 million years, formed by wind and water. Although you can experience Ha Long Bay on land, the scenery is best seen on a cruise on the waters.

Cruises will typically come in packages, including a few activities. From kayaking, island hopping, and exploring caves to visiting pearl farms, floating villages, or going rock climbing, there are many options to choose from. Though, there’s also much to do on board while you float past the beautiful islands. Opt for an overnight tour to see most of the iconic views, but book in advance as it’s incredibly popular. This is by far one of the best things to do in Vietnam .

The Story of Ha Long Bay

This iconic site translates to ‘descending dragon’ and is based on a Vietnamese legend. It tells of a dragon defending the Vietnamese from invasion using fire, emeralds, and jade. The jewels then landed in the ocean to form the limestone karsts and islands, preventing invader ships from coming any further. This story of Ha Long Bay adds even more magic to an already surreal landscape.

Also read: Ha Long Bay on a budget: visit from Cat Ba Island (Vietnam)

2. Hanoi Motorbike Tour 

Vietnam’s capital city is the heartbeat of the country and a place that’s always alive, buzzing with busy street vendors and lots of traffic. Though it can be a bit of a frenzy, Hanoi offers plenty of charm, from its colorful Old Quarter to authentic markets. 

Hotels in Hanoi 😴

The best way to discover the city is to join a motorbike tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter alleys, dating back 2000 years. Hanoi Backstreet Tours is a fantastic tour that uses vintage Minsk motorcycles. Soak up the surroundings as you sit on the back of these motorcycles, riding past all the city’s highlights.

Expect to see old houses on narrow alleys, locals transporting goods on carrying poles, and traffic crossing from every direction. The well-informed guides provide you with local knowledge and plenty of information about Hanoi and its history. You’ll also tour around the green region, which contrasts the busy morning in the metropolis.

Read more: The best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

3. Discover the Rice Terraces of Sapa

The Sapa Valley and its surrounding nature lie in the North of Vietnam, close to the border of China. It’s an incredible location where you can summit giant mountain peaks, balance on the borders of rice fields, and swim under stunning waterfalls. From trekking among some of the most beautiful scenery in the county to immersing yourself in the culture by visiting a tribe, Sapa makes a must-visit on any Vietnam itinerary . 

The hills are terraced with layers of luscious green and yellow rice fields, overlooked by the country’s tallest peak, Fansipan Mountain. The wavy pattern of the terraces creates a rippling effect across the beautiful countryside.

Trek between tiny villages or soar through the clouds to the peak of Fansipan Mountain. You can also arrange trekking in Sapa town, where you’ll find many guides on the streets. This is the realm of the H’mong, a local tribe in the Sapa area, who often provide guided trekking tours. 

Read more: Trekking through Sapa, Vietnam

If you can, however, it’s best to arrange a reliable trekking itinerary through your hotel, guesthouse, or homestay. This way, you can read reviews and have the most enjoyable and informative trekking experience possible. 

Hotels in Sapa 😴

4. Hike Hang Múa Peak in Tam Coc

The natural paradise of Tam Coc , a small town in the beautiful Ninh Binh Province, is one of the best things to do in Vietnam. Here, hundreds of limestone karsts tower out over calm rice paddies. As a result, the area has been famously nicknamed ‘Ha Long Bay on land’. 

The town is part of a wider UNESCO World Heritage Site full of rainforest-covered mountains, enormous valleys, and limestone cliffs. This makes it the perfect rural retreat to unwind. Try to reach the highest peak Hang Múa, where you’ll discover a stone dragon watching over the landscape (an important symbol of Vietnamese culture). 

Hotels in Tam Coc 😴

Climb your way up the snaking path of 500 steps to reach the top of an incredible cliff point. Here, you’ll find gorgeous panoramic views over the deep valley, waterways, and green mountains. There are two peaks up here, and both are worth visiting! The peak is open daily from 6 AM – 7 PM, and entrance costs 100.000 VND (4,26 USD).

Did you know? The name ‘Tam Coc’ literally means ‘three caves’, referring to the three in the area: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba.

5. Tam Coc Boat Ride

Apart from the mountains, there are many other incredible things to do in Tam Coc. The sweeping valleys of the area are full of beautiful waterways sandwiched between colorful yellow and green rice fields. Admire the scenery by floating down the Ngo Dong River on a boat tour, taking in new breathtaking views around every corner. 

During your journey, you’ll float through three large caves with dramatic stalagmites and stalactites. Hang Ca is the largest of the three, spanning around 20 meters in width and 127 meters in depth! The cave tour takes about 3 hours and is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Tam Coc. 

Tours in Tam Coc can easily be booked online here

Entrance fee: the cave tour costs a sightseeing fee of 120.000 VND (5,13 USD), with an additional 150.000 VND (6,40 USD) for the boat (for two people). Keep in mind that your boat guides and locals sometimes ask for a tip. 

Read more: the best things to do in Ninh Binh and Tam Coc, Vietnam

6. The Caves of Phong Nha

One of the best things to do in Vietnam is to explore the spectacular area of Phong Nha, also known as the ‘adventure capital of Asia’. You’ll find hundreds of mammoth caves here, nestled between gorgeous limestone mountains and wide-bending rivers. Because of this, spend a day enjoying trekking, climbing, abseiling, or touring through the tunnels and rivers. 

The most extraordinary cave in the area is Son Doong, big enough to fit in city skyscrapers. It’s a 4-day trek to get to this cave, so make sure to plan ahead if you want to incorporate this experience into your Vietnam travels. However, there are many other caves just as impressive that can be visited on a day trek, like Hang En.

Tip: If you plan on visiting Phong Nha’s caves, visit outside the rainy season (July- December). Many of the caves become inaccessible during this time, especially in the later months.

See tickets and availability for a day tour to Phong Nha

7. Streets of Hoi An

Home to charming lantern-lit streets, traditional wooden houses, and yellow colonial buildings, Hoi An makes a lovely destination in the country. The atmospheric city is full of Japanese, Chinese, and French influences that translate back into the street scene along the river bank.

Hotels in Hoi An 😴

This long-established UNESCO site has perfectly preserved its history, packed to the brim with 15th-century merchant homes and ornate bridges. Spend a few days strolling through the old colorful alleys, enjoying the lively ambiance of markets full of food stands and century-old temples.

8. Try the Incredible Cuisine!

From grabbing a delicious Banh Mi in Hoi An to ordering Pho (a Vietnamese staple) in Hanoi, one of the best things to do in Vietnam is to try the incredible cuisine. Food is a big part of the country’s culture, whether you stroll through the history-rich streets of the cities or worm your way between rice fields and coffee plantations. 

The introduction of the baguette by French colonial influences left its mark on Vietnam. Because of this, a must-try while you eat your way through the country, is a Banh Mi sandwich. Filled with meats, coriander, cucumber, pathé or cheese, chili, and mayonnaise, this is one of the most iconic Vietnamese dishes you can get. 

Tip: Hoi An has been dubbed the Banh Mi Capital of Vietnam, making it the best place to try it! Are you vegetarian or vegan? Then make sure to go to the incredible banh mi stall at this spot .

Vietnamese cuisine is arguably one of the best in the world, and Hoi An especially is full of explosive flavors. Because of this, cooking classes are an incredible and popular activity to do. Gather organic vegetables and herbs during a beautiful boat trip and cook a traditional Vietnamese meal with others during a class. Cooking classes usually take 3 to 5 hours.

9. Discover Vietnam by Motorbike

Nothing tops driving past the lush Vietnamese countryside on a motorbike and seeing nature at its finest. From the tropical mountains and limestone karsts to thousands of kilometers of coastline and the gorgeous rice paddies of the Mekong Delta, there are endless corners to explore. 

Whether you’re thinking of heading out on a day trip or planning a multi-day journey, a motorbike offers total freedom to get around at your own pace. Ride across the famous and exhilarating Hai Van Pass, a meandering road (20 km) through the hills and past the coastline 500m above sea level!

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Stop in Danang to see the golden bridge or the weird and wonderful Ba Na hills full of countless wildlife. Exploring Vietnam by motorbike, whether by yourself or on the back of a driver, is easily one of the most incredible ways to see the country. 

Tip: An International Driving Permit is becoming more of the norm if you want to rent a motorbike in Vietnam. An IDP only costs 15 USD and can easily be arranged here .

10. Mekong Delta

The mighty Mekong River flows over 4000 KM from the Tibetan Himalayas across Vietnam to the south before reaching the sea. For centuries, this stunning area of natural beauty has been home to a network of waterways, stilted villages, rice paddies, and mangrove forests. Because of this lusciousness, the Mekong Delta region is one of the most breathtaking locations in Vietnam . 

Life here hasn’t changed much over the years, offering an authentic look into the local culture. Jump on a cargo boat, gazing at the lush riverbanks and floating markets while you drift through the waterways. Or, join one of the cruises from Cai Be or Can Tho to explore the delta region and soak up the views peacefully.

11. Ban Gioc Waterfall

One of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking natural highlights is the enormous (70m tall, 208m wide) Ban Gioc waterfall. This iconic site sits on the border between Vietnam’s Cao Bang region and China and is made up of two colliding waterfalls that plummet down with a powerful force. It’s incredible to see the falls cascading down a huge limestone cliff face between lush greenery.

If you’re up for a climb and have the right walking gear, you can trek to the highest point of the falls. Here, you’ll be rewarded with astounding views of the waterfalls and the surrounding rocky mountains. Keen hikers can continue to explore nearby caves and their kilometer-long walkway, lined by stunning stalactites. 

The entrance to the falls is about 2 USD. There’s also the option to get a closer look at the majestic falls by hopping on a bamboo raft, which brings you to the base of the cascade.

For the most convience, you can join a 3 day tour from Hanoi to the waterfall. See tickets and availability here .

12. Phu Quoc Island

If you have the time on your Vietnam itinerary, make sure to visit the beautiful island of Phu Quoc. This natural paradise in the southwest of the country is full of secluded white sand bays, emerald waters, and beautiful palm trees, making it the perfect spot to relax. Spend a few days swinging in a hammock and enjoying the peacefulness of the surrounding nature. 

Hotels in Phu Quoc 😴

Make sure to head north to explore the Phu Quoc National Park. Here you’ll find perfectly preserved nature, mountains, and dense forest home to an abundance of incredible wildlife. Take your time to go on a nice nature trek, admiring all the natural highlights and hidden waterfalls. From Ho Chi Minh, you can hop on a direct flight to Phu Quoc to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of the cities. 

Read more: best things to do on Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam

13. War Tunnels HCM

The more somber side of Vietnam is its hostile history, which is still there to see. Tributes, museums, and even architecture provide an insight into the country’s war-torn past. Vietnam has moved on as a nation, but the sacrifices made are still remembered, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. 

This fantastic metropolis is very modern, with broad tree-lined avenues, bright city lights, and skyscrapers. Take some time to dive into the different districts, try the incredible cuisine, and visit the highly informative war museums. 

Hotels in Ho Chi Minh 😴

A must-do is to take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels: a huge network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong soldiers in the war. This area stretches for more than 250 kilometers, allowing the troops to operate and communicate in the area around the city. Two short sections can be visited on a guided tour, giving you the opportunity to crawl through the tunnels yourself.

See tickets and availability for a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels

14. Custom Clothing in Hoi An

Vietnam is the epicenter of tailor-made clothing. Whether it’s a summer dress or a three-piece suit you’re looking for, you can get it custom-made in the country. The city of Hoi An , in particular, makes a go-to destination for visitors looking to get a custom-designed keepsake.

While you make your way through the downtown streets, take some time to look around for a shop that does custom tailoring or sewing work. From suits and gowns to bikinis and even winter coats, the tailors here can make anything with numerous different fabrics. 

There are two different types of shops you can visit depending on what you want to get made. If you’re looking to have a summer dress or button-up shirt design come to life, head to a casual clothing tailor. If you’re looking for more formal attire, visit a high-end fashion shop like this one . These often have more luxurious fabrics and more experience in this type of tailoring. Getting a piece of clothing custom-made is one of the more unique things to do in Vietnam.

Don’t forget to: get your Visa for Vietnam

The Best Time to Visit Vietnam

The climate of Vietnam is different depending on the region. In the north, the weather is very seasonal, with hot, humid, and rainy summers and cold, dry winters. In the south, it’s hot throughout the year, with the drier months between November and April and the rainy period between May and October.

To see the scenery in Ha Long Bay at its most spectacular, it’s best to visit on a warm and sunny day. March to May and September to November are both good times to visit. The same goes for trekking through the Sapa Valley , though it does rain a bit more. If you want to experience green rice fields, visit between May and September.

Tip: Avoid visiting Vietnam during public holidays such as TET since the prices will be much higher. It’s also good to note that most shops will be closed and transport services greatly reduced.

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6 Great Homestays and Hotels in Sapa, Vietnam

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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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15 Most Beautiful Places To Visit in Vietnam

Magical waterfalls, pristine beaches and glimmering rice fields - discover Vietnam's breathtaking beauty

With some of the most incredible natural wonders on the planet, Vietnam is renowned for its astonishing beauty.

From the misty mountains, glistening rice fields and enchanting waterfalls of northern Vietnam, to the powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters of the southern beaches, Vietnam is a scenic paradise.

We’ve rounded up 15 of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam, plus the best times to visit each destination and how to get there.

Northern Vietnam

1. Sapa & The Tonkinese Alps

Hidden in the clouds among the soaring Tonkinese Alps, the small French hill station of Sapa offers a gateway to one of the most exquisite regions in southeast Asia.

As you break through the misty fog, you’ll discover the rolling green Hoàng Liên Son Mountains plunging into the Muong Hoa Valley, covered in a patchwork of glistening emerald rice terraces.

We recommend doing a 3-day trek between the villages to soak up the awe-inspiring scenery and catch a glimpse of traditional culture of the H'mong and Dao hill tribe villages. If trekking isn’t an option, you can still explore the most beautiful spots with day trips in a vehicle.

When to visit Sapa Located in the remote northwest of Vietnam, Sapa’s climate is best from March to May and September to November, with sunny days and clear skies. September and October are also the best months to see the rice terraces, as they bloom in a vibrant green after the rainy season. How to visit Sapa As there are no flights to Sapa, the best way to get there is with an overnight train from Hanoi. We recommend taking the Victoria Express, an eight-hour overnight train journey from Hanoi to Sapa, available only to guests of the luxurious Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa .

2. Ha Long Bay  

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay is world-famous for its silky, emerald waters and towering limestone karsts cloaked in lush rainforest.

For many, an overnight cruise through Ha Long Bay on a traditional junk boat is the highlight of their Vietnam holiday. You’ll take in otherworldly scenery as you glide along the gentle waters, passing floating villages such as Cua Van, Vung Vieng and Cong Dam.

Take a dip in the calm, clear waters, or go kayaking through the breathtaking caves and karsts - it’s the ultimate way to explore one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

When to visit Ha Long Bay The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is spring (March and April) and autumn (September and October), for optimal weather and pleasant temperatures. How to visit Ha Long Bay Located in northeastern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is a four hour drive from Hanoi, and you can easily reach this destination with a private vehicle or a coach tour.

Wayfairer Top Tip Spend a night or two on Cat Ba Island, a stunning island near Ha Long Bay. Half the island is covered in the dense jungle of Cat Ba National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, while the other half is strewn with ancient caves, historical sites and golden beaches, surrounded by craggy karsts. From the island, you can take a sailing or kayaking trip to explore Ha Long Bay.

3. Detian Waterfall

Tumbling down three tiers, surrounded by enchanting karst peaks, the Detian Waterfall (Virtuous Heaven Waterfall) is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on earth .

Also known as Ban Gioc Waterfall, meaning ‘half-way across’ in Vietnamese, the falls lie on the border between China and Vietnam, making it the second largest transnational waterfall in the world.

Measuring at over 200 metres wide, with a drop of more than 70 metres, the sight of the Detian Waterfall is truly awe-inspiring, and you can hear it’s thundering cascades before it even comes into view. You can take a bamboo raft around the base of the falls for an unforgettable close-up encounter.

When to visit Detian Waterfall This incredible feat of nature changes throughout the seasons, with bright red blossoms in spring, and golden leaves in autumn. The best time to visit is between April and November, when the cascades flow in full force with the summer rains. How to visit Detian Waterfall You can reach the Vietnamese side of the falls with a 6-hour scenic drive along the highway between Hanoi and Cao Bang city. From Cao Bang, you’ll take a further 2-hour drive to reach this wondrous waterfall.

4. Ninh Binh Province

Known as the Ha Long Bay of the land, Ninh Binh province encompasses a region of jaw-dropping natural beauty. Luminescent green rice fields carve around the winding Ngo Dong River, while hundreds of limestone karsts covered in dense jungle shoot into the sky.

There’s plenty to explore including ancient caves, beautiful pagodas, Van Long Nature Reserve and Cuc Phung National Park, the oldest national park in Vietnam with excellent hiking trails.

When to visit Ninh Binh To see Ninh Binh illuminated in its richest greenery, the best time to visit is from late May to early July, and from September to October, when local farmers harvest the rice. **Note that during the dry season (November to March), the rice harvesting is over, leaving the fields a muddy yellow. Although you won’t see as much greenery, the landscapes are still impressive. How to visit Ninh Binh Ninh Binh can be reached in less than two hours in a private vehicle from Hanoi, or around three hours from Ha Long Bay.

Wayfairer Top Tip Stay in the town of Ninh Binh for at least one or two nights to make the most of this magnificent region. Trang An, a stunning complex of mountains and caves, and Tam Coc, a more popular landscape of caves, rivers, rice fields and pagodas, are both best experienced early in the morning to avoid the influx of tourists.

5. Ha Giang Province

Bordering China in the northernmost reaches of Vietnam, Ha Giang is a quiet riverside province, renowned for its magnificent landscapes.

You’ll climb down a rabbit hole of ethereal scenery, with forested mountains, mystical caves, and the stunning Quan Ba Valley where you’ll find Quan Ba pass. Known as Heaven’s Gate, the pass offers spectacular views over glimmering rice terraces, rolling hills and serpentine rivers.

Ha Giang is also home to Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark , an incredible conservation and geological area that’s part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.

When to visit Ha Giang Ha Giang is a year-round destination, however the temperatures are at their best from September to November and from March to May. From December to February, the dry season brings cold weather, while the hot, rainy season lasts from April to October. How to visit Ha Giang The easiest way to reach Ha Giang is with an approximate six-hour drive in a private vehicle from Hanoi.

Central Vietnam

With its cobblestoned streets, narrow canals, Chinese-style shophouses, and French-colonial buildings, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An is one of the most beautiful towns in Vietnam .

Located on the central coast, this former trading port is famous for its historic Old Town. Even though many of the old shops have been converted to modern businesses such as tailors, art galleries, souvenir shops and restaurants, the town has retained its old-fashioned charm and atmosphere.

Each night, all electricity in the Old Town is switched off and traditional silk lanterns are hung from every shop front. The colourful lanterns light up the streets and cast a romantic shimmer over the Thu Bon River.

When to visit Hoi An Hoi An is at it’s best from February to April, with warm, comfortable temperatures and little rain. You can also enjoy the most spectacular Full Moons of the year from July to August, although these months are renowned for their blazing heat. How to visit Hoi An The easiest way to reach Hoi An is by flying into Da Nang, located just 40 minutes from Hoi An. You can also take a train or a private vehicle transfer.

Wayfairer Top Tip Hoi An is an unmissable destination and we'd recommend spending at least two or three days here. After you’ve wandered the town, hire a bicycle to explore the villages around Hoi An, to get a glimpse of rural Vietnamese life. You can also visit My Son, an ancient temple sanctuary and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 50 kilometres outside Hoi An.

7. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a stunning region of turquoise lakes, ancient caves, and forested mountains, with plenty of adventure sports available to explore the park.

It contains the oldest karst system in Asia, dated between 400 and 450 million years old and is also home to Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world and one of the most remarkable wonders of Vietnam.

The cave is over 5 kilometres long, with sections reaching 200 metres high and 150 metres wide, and is big enough to fit an entire New York City block with 40 story skyscrapers .

It was discovered in 1991 by a local man named Ho Khanh, and only became internationally known after a group of cavers from the British Cave Research Association began to explore the cave.

After overcoming an 80-metre high calcite barrier in a second expedition in 2010, the team discovered that the cave was the largest in the world.

When to visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park The best months to visit the national park are between March and May, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is low. December to February is also dry, however the weather can be quite cool. June to August are the hottest months, while August and December should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and flooding. How to visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park Located in northern Central Vietnam, you can take a domestic flight into Dong Hoi airport, then take a private vehicle for the one-hour drive to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. You can also arrange private vehicle transportation from any urban area including Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay and Hoi An.

A laidback coastal city in central Vietnam, Da Nang is brimming with natural beauty and cultural attractions.

You’ll need a few days here to soak up all the sights, including Marble Mountains, a group of mountains with a maze of caves and trails, and a number of gorgeous temples to explore.

Visit My Khe Beach, a stunning white sand beach with plenty of watersports, or the wonderful Ba Na Hills Sunworld, a fairytale complex modelled after an old European city, featuring the world’s longest cable car lift.

You also can’t miss the Golden Bridge Hand, where you’ll find two giant stone hands emerging out of the mountain to cradle the golden bridge.

Suspended 1,400 metres above sea level, with panoramic views over the valley and the Truong Son mountains, Da Nang’s newest architectural attraction has drawn huge crowds from all over the world.

When to visit Da Nang Da Nang weather is at it’s best from February to May, with warm temperatures and clear skies. The hottest months run from May to September, while the rainy season brings showers from September to February. How to visit Da Nang You can fly into Da Nang International Airport from airports around Vietnam and the rest of the world.

Wayfairer Top Tip For the best views of Da Nang, make your way up the steep, winding road to Son Tra Peninsula, with plenty of sights along the way including the Man Thai Fishing Village, a 67-metre tall Lady Buddha statue, the Giant Banyan Tree, and Monkey Passage. Enjoy the breathtaking views from Ban Co Peak at the top, then head to Son Tra Nature Reserve, the only remaining coastal rainforest and home to 1,300 rare red-shanked doucs.

Southern Vietnam

9. Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise, lined with white sandy shores and sparkling waters, and filled with lush jungle and magical waterfalls.

It’s a quiet, relaxed island, small enough to explore the dozens of pristine beaches by bicycle or scooter. Renowned for its luxurious hotels, we recommend heading to the West Coast for powdery white sands, turquoise seas and spectacular sunsets.

You can also venture into the jungle to explore hiking trails and spot wildlife, or head to Duong Dong, the largest town with plenty of lively markets selling handicrafts and fresh seafood.

When to visit Phu Quoc Island November to March is the high season for Phu Quoc, with warm weather and blue skies. October and early November can also be a great time to visit, with fewer tourists and a beautiful blooming jungle after the heavy rains that last from July to September. How to visit Phu Quoc Island Located in southern Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc can be reached with a domestic flight from major cities including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang, or a private transfer and high-speed ferry to the island.

10. Quy Nhon

Get off the beaten track and head to Quy Nhon, a peaceful coastal city in southern Vietnam. Few tourists have heard of Quy Nhon, yet it’s the gateway to some of the most beautiful natural gems in Vietnam, including Ky Co Beach.

Tucked away in Phuong Mai Peninsula, Ky Co Beach is a natural work of art, with crystalline waters, pure white sand and rocky cliffs. You can paddle in the clear lagoons, formed between the sea rocks, sunbathe on the soft sand, or snorkel the nearby colourful reef.

When to visit Quy Nhon The best time to visit Quy Nhon and it’s beaches is between January and March, with milder temperatures and little chance of rain. After March, the region becomes sweltering, while heavy rains arrive during the wet season between September and December. How to get to Quy Nhon You can fly into Phu Cat Airport from major cities including Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, then take a 45-minute private transfer to Quy Nhon city.

Wayfairer Top Tip This area is filled with natural wonders, including Eo Gio Bay, a stunning place where dazzling blue waters smash against the craggy cliffs. You can reach the bay by crossing Thi Nai bridge and driving about 5 kilometres to the centre of Nhon Ly Commune. From here it’s a 100 metre walk to the bay. You can also take a boat or canoe from Ky Co Beach to reach the bay.

11. Mekong Delta

Known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam’, the Mekong Delta is one of the most scenic regions of Vietnam. A land of winding waterways, mangrove forests, floating markets and lush green rice fields, life here is governed by the ebb and flow of southeast Asia’s most iconic river.

You can travel the mighty Mekong by boat, stopping at the famous floating markets of Chau Doc, Can Tho or Cai Rang, where traders and farmers come to buy and sell fruit, vegetables and fish.

You can also head out into the Mekong Delta on bicycles, roaming through peaceful villages where you’ll see children riding on the backs of water buffaloes and farmers tending to their glimmering rice fields.

When to visit the Mekong Delta The best time to visit the Mekong Delta is during the dry season between December and April, with blue skies and low humidity. November to January are the coolest months in this sweltering region. How to visit the Mekong Delta The Mekong Delta is located close to Ho Chi Minh, and you can take a day tour from the city to explore the waterways and floating markets. For an immersive Mekong experience, we recommend spending one or two nights in one of the towns located along the river, or taking a longer trip through Cambodia by boat along the Mekong.

12. Cat Tien National Park

Covering a vast region of lowland tropical forest, Cat Tien National Park is a breathtaking biosphere reserve in southern Vietnam. Set beside a small, sleepy town, the national park is home to a trove of ancient trees, botanical gardens and endangered wildlife.

Walk or cycle along the leafy trails for the chance to spot the the endemic golden-cheeked gibbon and other rare primates, bears, mongoose, civets, elephants, pangolin, deer and an impressive array of rare birds.

You can even take a canoe around the jungle-fringed waters of Crocodile Lake, to catch a glimpse of the lake's resident crocodiles. 

You can also visit enchanting waterfalls around the town of Cat Tien, and an archaeological site located just outside the town, where you’ll find ancient Hindu temples built between the 4th and 9th centuries.

When to visit Cat Tien National Park The best time to visit Cat Tien is from December to May, with low rainfall and milder temperatures, making it easier to explore the forest. How to visit Cat Tien National Park The easiest way to reach this secluded park is with a four-hour drive in a private vehicle from Ho Chi Minh city.

Wayfairer Top Tip You can spot wildlife as you roam around the park, however for the best chance of sighting rare species, head to the park’s two animal rescue centres. The Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre rescues endangered primates, while the Cat Tien Bear Rescue Centre rescues sun bears and Asian black bears from illegal trade.

With it’s magical waterfalls, shady forests and brilliant flower gardens, Da Lat has become renowned as one of the most romantic places in Vietnam, perfect for adventurous couples.

Known as the Paris of Vietnam, The City of Flowers and The City of Lovers, you’ll discover a charming town strewn with French-colonial villas, horse-drawn carriages, an Eiffel Tower-shaped radio tower and the gorgeous Valley of Love, dotted with heart-shaped sculptures.

The town is surrounded by picturesque crops of coffee, strawberries and flowers. The cooler weather and misty mountain air make it the perfect place for outdoor action, and you can go hiking, mountain biking, canyoning and white-water rafting in the surrounding hills.

When to visit Da Lat Da Lat is at its most beautiful between December and March, when the famous flower gardens erupt in full bloom. The weather is dry and sunny, and temperatures are pleasant for outdoor adventure. How to visit Da Lat You can take a domestic flight from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to Lien Khuong Airport, located 30 kilometres south of Da Lat. You can also reach Da Lat by taking a private vehicle transfer from Ho Chi Minh, Mui Ne or Nha Trang.

14. Nha Trang

With a stunning mountain backdrop, sweeping crescent beach and beautiful turquoise bay dotted with tropical islands, it is easy to see why Nha Trang is Vietnam’s most famous beach resort .

The town itself is home to Cham ruins, Buddhist temples and gothic-style Catholic churches, and you can visit Long Son Pagoda (also known as White Buddha Temple) to see a 14-metre high white Buddha sitting on a lotus blossom.

The platform around the huge figure offers fantastic photo opportunities, with impressive views of Nha Trang and the surrounding rural areas.

If you’re looking for adventure, head to the Ba Ho Waterfalls, where you’ll find three natural waterfalls and a clear lake surrounded by dense rainforest.

The waterfalls are a 40-minute drive from Nha Trang along a picturesque stretch of coastline, with views of the ocean on one side and lush mountains on the other.

When to visit Nha Trang The best time to visit Nha Trang is February to April, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is low. Diving visibility is also at it’s best during these months, and dive enthusiasts will love the coral-rich sites of Moray Beach, South Reef, Small Hill and Mun Island. How to visit Nha Trang You can get to Nha Trang with a domestic flight from most major cities in Vietnam including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang. The airport is called Cam Ranh Airport and is located around 30 kilometres from the city centre. You can also access Nha Trang by train or with a private vehicle transfer.

Wayfairer Top Tip For your own private tropical paradise, head to Ninh Van Bay, located a 20-minute boat ride from Nha Trang city. Stay at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, the luxurious star of this exquisite bay, lined with sugary white sands and dazzling blue waters. As the bay is only accessible by water, it’s the perfect place for a secluded retreat.

15. Mui Ne Sand Dunes

On the southern coast of Vietnam, you’ll find the country’s very own Sahara Desert. The striking red and white sand dunes have built up over time, as waves and winds carry the sand inland.

The dunes form a barrier against storms and beach erosion, and provide a habitat for endangered plant and animal species. The White Sand Dunes are a vast, ethereal expanse, and are absolutely stunning at sunrise, while the Red Sand Dunes are made up of coppery rolling hills which radiate at sunset.

There’s also a gorgeous Grand Canyon-esque Fairy Stream, flanked by lush greenery and the dazzling sand dunes.

When to visit the Mui Ne Sand Dunes Mui Ne is one of the driest places in Vietnam, so you’ll enjoy pleasant weather all year round. For the best surfing and beach conditions, visit Mui Ne between December and April. How to visit the Mui Ne Sand Dunes You can reach the dunes with a four-hour drive in a private vehicle from Ho Chi Minh city. If you’d like to spend more time at the dunes, you can stay in nearby Mui Ne fishing village, lined with a stunning golden sand beach, famed for kite and windsurfing.   If you'd like to visit Vietnam call our Luxury Travel Specialists for a chat about your dream trip or fill out our no-obligation enquiry form.

We understand that booking trips, especially adventurous and alternative ones such as this can be intimidating, so get in touch; we can take the stress out of your holiday planning and organise a trip you won’t forget!

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My Top 10 Best Things to Do in Vietnam

I visited Southeast Asia for my 40th birthday this year and we spent about 10 days in Vietnam. We had the best time! I didn’t know much about the country before I left, but Vietnam is a country that completely surprised and delighted me. It was full of culture and history, and some of the most incredible food! If you’re planning to visit Vietnam, here are what I think are the top 10 best things to do in Vietnam.

Light a Lantern in Hoi An

Our first stop in Vietnam was the charming city of Hoi An in Northern Vietnam. We flew into Da Nang Airport and took a Grabb car (like UBER) into Hoi An. It was late at night and we were all so excited to see the colorful lanterns lit and the old town literally glowing with light!

We spent several days in Hoi An exploring sites and trying out restaurants. On our first night we took a boat ride and set lanterns free on the river. It was truly a magical experience! I loved Hoi An and its old-world charm, colorful buildings, and fun nightlife! It was a great introduction to Vietnam! So if you’re wondering where to travel to in Vietnam, definitely put Hoi An at the top of your list! You can book boat rides in Hoi An here, or just find a boat along the river if you’re in the old quarter. Just be prepared to barter. We paid about $20 USD, which was too high, but still worth it!

Take a Lantern Making Class

The history of lanterns in Vietnam is deeply intertwined with the country’s culture and traditions, symbolizing joy, luck, and hope. Originally introduced from China, lanterns have been adapted and embraced within Vietnamese culture, becoming an integral part of many festivals and celebrations throughout the country.

We booked a l antern making class while we were in Hoi An. Our hotel had bikes, so we hopped on and made our way to our class. This was one of my favorite things to do in Vietnam! It was something that helped us connect to the culture of Vietnam and gave us a really special souvenir to take home with us. The lantern making was more difficult than I thought it would be and I have so much more respect for the people who make them! I also bought a few extra lanterns to take home with me. They’re just so beautiful! We booked a class in Hoi An and it was only $10 and so worth it!

Get Custom Clothes Made in Hoi An

One of the best things to do in Vietnam is to get custom clothes made, and the best place to do that is in Hoi An. I was so impressed with the quality of the clothes that I had made and the speed at which they made them. You will find hundreds of tailor shops in Hoi An where you can get custom clothing made. Some tailors specialize in suits, some in dresses, but most of them produce great pieces. I chose to use Rosa Tailor in Old Town Hoi An, mainly because they were located across the street from our hotel, which made multiple fittings convenient for us.

I had two linen sets and two skirts made and I love them all! Someone in our group had 4 pairs of her favorite pajamas replicated, and another one had a custom dress made that turned out beautifully. Even if you’re only in Hoi An for a day or two, you can get something made depending on the difficulty. If you’re having a suit or formal gown made, give yourself a few days to go in for extra fittings to get it just right.

Take a Tour in a Vietnam War Jeep

If you’re visiting Vietnam and interested in war history and also experiencing local life, then I highly recommend taking a Vietnam War Jeep Tour from Hoi An . This was one of my favorite experiences of our trip. We were picked up from our hotel in authentic restored US Army Vietnam Jeeps and driven around and outside of Hoi An.

We got to visit a home where they made rice paper and rice noodles. We got to learn and take part in the process from turning the rice into milk to cooking the rice paper on an open fire.

We also visited a family who weaves bamboo mats and got to participate in the weaving process. It was harder than it looks! I purchased a set of 12 bamboo placemats which the family delivered by scooter to my hotel later that night!

Our guide took us to a family’s traditional government-issued garden, which was fascinating! The gardens were very well kept and were able to feed a family. We learned about the different plants and herbs that were grown and what they were used for.

We also got to ride in a coconut basket boat and catch crabs which was really fun! Our basket captain was born deaf as a result of Agent Orange used in the Vietnam War. That was a really sad reminder that the war is still affecting the people in Vietnam today.

At the end of our tour, our guide took us to dinner along the river for a traditional Vietnamese family-style dinner. Everything we ate was absolutely delicious!

Explore Hanoi

Hanoi is the second largest city and one of the top places to visit in Vietnam. This bustling city was alive with activity! It was a great place to see historic sites and take a street food tour.

Hanoi mixes old Asian traditions with French architecture, showing its rich history. Its lively Old Quarter is full of shops and street food, and landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake. The city is famous for its cultural arts and delicious food. Despite modern changes, Hanoi keeps its old charm.

Hanoi was a very busy city and if I’m being honest, a little overwhelming. And the driving there was…insane and I felt like I was in a game of Mario Kart! We were able to get around the city easily using Grabb and just walking.

We visited the Hoa Lo Prison , also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” It was used as a prison for both Vietnamese and Americans throughout its history.

A portion of the original prison has been preserved as a war museum, where you can see insights into the prison’s history and the conditions endured by those held within its walls. The museum presents a complex narrative, focusing on the prison’s use during both the French colonial period and the Vietnam War, aiming to provide a broader understanding of Vietnam’s struggle for independence and the complexities of war. It was interesting to have a glimpse inside the Vietnam War and Vietnam’s history from a Vietnamese perspective. It’s one of the top places to visit in Vietnam if you’re interested in war history.

If you want to visit the prison, be sure to bring cash, as they do not take cards. The cost is 50,000 dong (about $2 USD).

Another fun activity we did in Vietnam was to see a Water Puppet Show . It was fascinating and a little strange, but very unique to Hanoi and something you can only find there! This is an ativity that you’ll want to book in advance. We booked a few days before and the theater was full. If you want to get an English headset, bring cash. They cost around 100,000 dong ($4 USD).

Explore Ninh Binh

Wondering what to see in Vietnam that’s not in the city? While we loved exploring the cities of Hoi An and Hanoi, we really wanted to see more of the countryside in Vietnam. We booked a private tour of the Ninh Binh area and I’m so glad we did. We were able to see and do so much just outside of Hanoi.

Our private guide, Tri (pronounced tree ) showed us around the area where he grew up living with his grandparents. He taught us about traditional life, took us on a bike ride through the rice paddies, took us to visit the ancient town and original capital city of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, hiked up to the Lying Dragon mountain with us for a bird’s eye view of the rice paddies and mountains, and took us to Tam Coc to ride through the rice fields. It was a magical day visiting Ninh Binh, one of the most beautiful places to see in Vietnam.

Many tours will take you to Ninh Binh and most tour operators will take you in large groups, but if you can afford it, I recommend booking a private tour . We saw large groups throughout the day and it didn’t look nearly as fun, especially with different levels of biking and hiking. But it’s a must see in Vietnam so you should definitely go!

See the Rice Paddies of Vietnam

You probably can’t think of Vietnam without thinking about the rice paddies and the people who work in them. It’s such an iconic image of the country, both in ancient and modern times. These terraced fields are not just agricultural wonders; they are a testament to generations of Vietnamese farmers working in harmony with the land to cultivate rice, the staple food of the country.

Rice paddies are more than just agricultural sites; they are a symbol of Vietnamese culture and resilience. They play a crucial role in Vietnamese festivals and traditions, and the rhythms of rural life often revolve around the rice planting and harvesting seasons. The image of the rice farmer, knee-deep in water, tending to the fields, is a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s connection to both land and water.

Rice paddies can be found throughout Vietnam, from the Red River Delta in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south. Each region has its unique methods and cycles of cultivation, influenced by local climate and topography.

In mountainous regions, such as Sapa in the north, rice terraces are carved into terraces that climb the hills and mountains. These terraced fields are engineering marvels, maximizing arable land area and water distribution.

Since we were visiting Vietnam in January and February, we knew it would be too cold in Sapa, so we opted to visit Tam Coc, also known as the “Halong Bay on land.” Located in Ninh Binh Province, just south of Hanoi, this incredible landscape is famous for its limestone cliffs rising out of the rice paddies and winding rivers. The name Tam Coc means “three caves,” which are formed by the Ngo Dong River cutting through the mountains.

You can hire a paddle boat with a driver and row through the rice paddies and caves. The paddlers row the boat with their feet, which is extra impressive! This was such a relaxing journey and I loved seeing the traditional rice paddy workers in the fields and enjoying the mountain scenery. This was a must do in Vietnam for me!

We saw most of the rice paddies in Vietnam during our Ninh Binh tour.

Take a Halong Bay Cruise

The highlight of our time in Vietnam was probably cruising Ha Long Bay. I know it’s a “touristy” thing to do in Vietnam, but for good reason! It’s totally worth experiencing these iconic scenes! And the prices are surprisingly affordable for a cruise.

Located in northeastern Vietnam, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands topped with rainforests. This natural wonder covers an area of about 1,500 square kilometers and features nearly 2,000 islets, each with its unique shape and form.

The name “Ha Long” translates to “Descending Dragon,” inspired by local legends that dragons descended from heaven to protect Vietnam, creating the bay’s islands with their tails. And when you see Ha Long Bay, heavenly is certainly a word that comes to mind! It’s one of the most beautiful things to see in Vietnam.

We cruised with Mon Cherie Cruises . There are dozens of companies doing Ha Long Bay cruises and it was really difficult to choose from all the boat trips and cruise companies, but in the end, I was really happy with our choice.

The rooms were great and we had our balconies, the staff was kind, funny, and helpful, the food was great, and the day tours were really fun. We were able to visit Cat Ba Island and bike through the middle of the island and learn about the local culture, kayak in the ocean, and visit private, untouched beaches. It was seriously a memorable experience and a Vietnam must see!

Take a Food Tour

Wondering what to do in Vietnam if you’re a foodie? Take a food tour! I knew that I liked Vietnamese food before going to Vietnam, but tasting it in its original country was even better! We were able to try a large variety of food on our own, but it would be even better to book a food tour and have a local show you around the best food in Vietnam! Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), and Hoi An would be a great place to take a food tour since you have so many options!

Some Vietnamese delicacies that you should try are Vietnamese egg coffee, pho (a tasty rice noodle soup), banh mi (a perfect Vietnamese-French fusion sandwich on a baguette), goi cuon (spring rolls), bun cha (pork and rice noodles- this is usually what I have at home), and coa lau (a pork noodle dish with a dark broth).

Here are some great food tours in each city:

Hoi An – Food Tour & Boat Trip

Hanoi – Street Food Walking Tour

Ho Chi Minh – Private Walking Food Tour

Book a Photoshoot in Vietnam

Vietnam is beautiful inside and out and deserves to be captured, and preferably with you in the picture! Booking a Flytographer session is a great way to do that!

Book a Photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We love using Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or using code WANDERLUST.

One thing we didn’t get the chance to do in Vietnam was to book a photoshoot, and I was kicking myself while we were there. If we didn’t have such a packed schedule, I would have quickly booked a last-minute photoshoot in Hoi An. The city was absolutely stunning and photogenic! Don’t miss the opportunity to capture your memories there! Check out these stunning photos by the Flytographer there ! The lantern ones, my goodness!

Some Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam

Do i need a visa to visit vietnam.

Visa requirements vary by country. Many visitors need a visa, which can be obtained via the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country or through an online e-visa process. Some nationalities are eligible for visa exemptions for short stays. As an American, I needed a visa. Be sure to put the correct date on your visa application. One of my friends put the day after and ended up having to sleep on a bathroom floor in the Bangkok airport because she wasn’t allowed to fly to Vietnam with her visa that was one day off.

Is it safe to travel in Vietnam?

Vietnam is generally considered safe for travelers. Common precautions should be taken, especially in busy cities, to guard against petty theft. Road safety can be a concern, so be cautious when crossing streets and consider the quality of transportation options.

Where did you stay in Vietnam?

Here are the hotels that we booked during our stay in Vietnam. Hotels were VERY affordable!

Hoi An – Q Villas Hotel

This was a very basic family owned and run hotel right in the heart of the old quarter. It was perfect for our stay. I stayed in the family room and it was large and could have easily fit 4 people. There aren’t very many fancy or chain hotels in the center of Hoi An so this was a good choice for us.

Hanoi – Movenpick Hanoi Center

This was a very fancy hotel in the center of Hanoi and it only cost us $100 a night. It was great and the service was amazing. They ended up holding our bags for a day after we got back from our cruise and we weren’t even staying there. I was very grateful.

Ha Long Bay Cruis e – Mon Cheri Cruises

We loved our cruise with Mon Cheri. It was great for the price and the service and activities were top notch!

I’d love to get back to Vietnam and check out Ho Chi Minh and the rest of southern Vietnam. We just didn’t have time, but I loved everything that we were able to fit in.

As you can see I really fell in love with Vietnam. Not only its natural and historic beauty, but with the people. They were so kind and welcoming and I could tell that they were really glad to see us and share their culture with us. I hope my 10 best things to do in Vietnam will be helpful to you! Did I miss anything that you loved? I would love to hear from you!

The post My Top 10 Best Things to Do in Vietnam appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

Best Places To Visit In Vietnam : In recent times, Vietnam has risen as a top-tier destination in Southeast Asia that travelers simply can’t miss. Its breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and culturally rich heritage blending Western and Eastern influences have captivated visitors. Like each region showcasing its unique beauty throughout the seasons, Vietnam offers a plethora of experiences to relish during the summer months.

For those considering a summer getaway in Vietnam , we present a curated list of the finest places to visit in the country for an unforgettable vacation.

1. Halong Bay

Including Halong Bay in your travel plans is essential for every explorer, particularly when visiting Vietnam during the summer or spring seasons. This UNESCO-listed world heritage site is renowned for its captivating cruise tours amidst majestic limestone islands crowned with lush rainforests. However, summer visitors can experience Halong Bay in a distinct manner. From unwinding on the tranquil shores to exploring refreshing caves, indulging in sparkling water swims, or embarking on a thrilling seaplane adventure, there are myriad ways to savor the bay’s allure.

2. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is celebrated for its picturesque crescent-shaped coastline, unspoiled beaches, and azure bay. Adorned with small islands and encircled by rolling hills, this part of Vietnam offers a serene retreat. Travelers exploring Nha Trang during the summer months can partake in exciting activities like windsurfing, parasailing, undersea walking, and flyboarding. With Vietnam’s delightful summer weather, Nha Trang becomes an ideal destination for a perfect getaway!

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The mystique of Con Dao Islands places them among the world’s most enigmatic destinations. With their stunningly pristine beaches, untouched forests, vibrant coral reefs, and other captivating attractions, this archipelago offers an idyllic setting for a summer adventure in Vietnam. Adding to its allure is the renowned Six Senses Con Dao resort, enhancing the charm of this exquisite Vietnamese destination.

4. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc beckons as an enticing beach escape for a summer retreat in Vietnam. This expansive island, the largest in Vietnam, is accessible by both sea and air travel. Its renowned Khem Beach, Sao Beach, picturesque Ham Ninh fishing village, stunning coral reefs, and delectable seafood delicacies all combine to create an ideal destination for a memorable summer getaway.

Hoi An, an ancient coastal gem, is famed for its harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western influences, evident in its Chinese temples, Japanese-style bridges, pagodas, old canals, and French colonial architecture. For travelers seeking a summer escapade in Vietnam, a visit to Hoi An is a must-do. Explore its uncrowded beaches and charming riverside cafes, offering a delightful blend of tranquility and cultural richness.

Also Read:   Top 17 Best Places To Visit In Thailand

6. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reserve, boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a nature lover’s paradise. This park is also renowned for hosting some of Asia’s largest karst mountains, magnificent caves, and hidden underground rivers. For travelers considering a summer getaway in Vietnam, camping inside these caves along the banks of subterranean rivers promises an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience in nature’s embrace.

If you’re looking to escape the summer heat in Vietnam during June or other warm months, consider a trip to the picturesque rice fields of Sa Pa valley. The terraced rice farming, vibrant countryside scenery, and consistently pleasant temperatures throughout the year create an idyllic setting for a refreshing summer getaway.

8. Mai Chau

If you’re concerned about Sa Pa being too bustling due to its summer appeal, consider Mai Chau as an excellent alternative. Travelers exploring Vietnam during the summer months can enjoy refreshing swims at the waterfall’s base, bike rides through rice fields, and stay in cozy homestays. Mai Chau provides all the charms of Sa Pa without the crowds, making it an appealing choice for a tranquil summer retreat.

Da Lat, also known as the  City of Love  is another delightful destination to visit in Vietnam in Summer. Its climate has been rightfully tagged as  eternal spring  due to the year-round pleasant temperatures. Stunning lakes, waterfalls, and lush green valleys with vibrant flower beds make this city an idyllic holiday retreat, especially for those eyeing the summer window.

10. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, the former capital of Vietnam, presents a picturesque landscape akin to a beautifully painted canvas showcasing the country’s diverse colors. Often likened to Halong Bay but set amidst rice paddies, this scenic destination is a must-visit for travelers exploring Vietnam in summer 2023. Take a boat trip through the Red River Delta to discover the enchanting caves and behold the beauty of the expansive rice fields, creating a memorable and immersive experience.

Best Places To Visit In Vietnam : Feeling uncertain about a summer trip to Vietnam? Let us put your mind at ease! Embark on a journey to the mentioned destinations in Vietnam with Skysafar , and we guarantee your summer getaway will exceed your expectations. Explore these exotic gems of the country and create unforgettable memories during your vacation!

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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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