talk about tourism in 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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• Vietnam Travel Guide

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.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on June 17, 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.

Map of Places to Visit in Vietnam

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Reader interactions.

September 15, 2019 at 1:19 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Lagoons Pha Tam Giang, Đầm Vân Long.

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

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

Enjoy your traveling trip!

May 1, 2019 at 2:46 am

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

March 3, 2019 at 1:49 am

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

March 29, 2018 at 9:26 pm

The market in Can Cau is fabulous.

November 21, 2017 at 10:29 pm

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

November 8, 2017 at 8:19 am

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

September 19, 2017 at 4:52 pm

I really liked Da Nang.

November 23, 2016 at 4:13 am

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

July 21, 2015 at 2:04 pm

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

June 2, 2015 at 6:46 am

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

November 7, 2014 at 4:11 am

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

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

Author: Destinations.ai · Updated on: April 11, 2024

Vietnam’s allure is not just in its scenic landscapes and the pulsating rhythm of the Mekong Delta; it’s also entwined with centuries-old traditions and a history that’s as rich as its verdant rice fields.

As you go through this storied land, you’ll encounter temples that stand as serene testaments to Buddhist spirituality, quaint hillside locales that beckon with their tranquility, and some of the world’s largest caves that command awe and exploration.

Embark on a journey that will take you from the regal Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, with each location offering a different slice of Vietnam’s cultural and natural diversity.

Uncover the hidden gems like the Marble Mountains, absorb the architectural grace of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon, or find solace in the Tam Coc Valley.

Whether unwinding on the pristine shores of My Khe Beach or navigating the underground labyrinths of the Cu Chi Tunnels, Vietnam’s top attractions can fill your travel diary with unforgettable narratives.

25. Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue

Step into the intriguing Khai Dinh Tomb , a blend of Vietnamese traditions and European flair. Constructed in the 1920s, this mausoleum reflects an architectural mix — Buddhist motifs fused with Roman Gothic influences.

The Honour Courtyard unfolds before you as you enter, leading up to the Thien Dinh, the main edifice.

• Location: Honour Courtyard to Thien Dinh
• Architectural Style: Vietnamese-European
• Bronze statue of Khai Dinh
• Exquisite murals surrounding the tomb

Marvel at the emperor’s bronze effigy and the surrounding ornate murals that tell a story of heritage and artistry.

24. Con Dao Islands

Once notorious as the “Devil’s Island of Indochina” under the French domain, the Con Dao archipelago has shed its somber past to emerge as a serene retreat. Scattered off Vietnam’s southern shores, these 16 isles are allured with pristine sands.

Exploring underwater marine life is a quintessential experience—scuba diving and snorkeling unlock a world of aquatic wonder.

Yet, history whispers through the preserved colonial-era prisons, gesturing to the tales of bygone captives. Your journey to Con Dao is not merely a beach holiday; it’s a path through time, tracing the transformation from a place of confinement to one of tranquil beauty.

See Related: 22 Top Tourist Attractions in Miami

23. Marble Mountains

Just south of Da Nang awaits a stunning complex of limestone and marble hills named for the classical elements: Earth, Water, Wind, Fire, and Wood.

Beyond their natural beauty, these peaks conceal an extensive network of caves, many adorned with Buddhist sanctuaries that offer a serene retreat. The history woven into these sanctuaries includes uses as hospitals during wartime.

• Earthly Beauty : Picturesque peaks rising majestically.
• Spiritual Sanctuaries : Caves doubling as tranquil shrines.
• Historical Depths : Vietnam War-era hospitals concealed within.

See Related: 25 Top Tourist Attractions in San Diego

22. Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon

Address: Ho Chi Minh City, District 1

Architecture:

• Style: Neo-Romanesque
• Origin: Late 19th century
• Materials: Imported from France
• Exterior: Brick facade
• Stained glass
• Carved tiles
• Virgin Mary statue

Significance: This location merges religious significance with architectural splendor and is a testament to Vietnam’s colonial heritage.

Visiting Tips:

• Take time to observe the exterior design before exploring the interior artistry.
• Look for the lessons of history in the materials and craftsmanship on display.

Embark on a journey through time within the embrace of European-inspired walls, where every brick has its tale.

See Related: 26 Top Tourist Attractions in Greece

21. Tam Coc

Amid the rice fields and towering limestone cliffs of Ninh Binh province, you’ll encounter the serene beauty of Tam Coc. As its name suggests, this area boasts a trio of natural caves—Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba.

• Hang Cả: The largest of the three, offering a spacious glimpse into the region’s geological charm.
• Hang Hai: Experience the harmonious sound of water echoing off its walls.
• Hang Ba: The final cave completes this trilogy, leaving a lasting impression with its unique features.

Board a guided boat and journey along the Ngo Dong River to these subterranean wonders, often greeted by local sellers afloat, seeking to share pieces of culture.

20. My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach , famously known in wartime as China Beach, now serves as a tranquil escape with its immaculate white sands and inviting azure waters beneath the Vietnamese sun.

• Relaxation : Claim a sun lounger or seek shade under a native palm-thatched umbrella.
• Adventure : Kayak rentals abound for those eager to glide over the gentle waves.
• Amenities : A short stroll away lies a selection of hotels and eateries, each with a picturesque seascape view.

Embrace the serenity or mingle with locals—My Khe is more than just a beach; it’s a cultural rendezvous.

19. Hang Son Doong Cave

Venture into Hang Son Doong, a cave of grand scale nestled within Vietnam’s borders. Approximately three million years in the making, its vast chambers are large enough to house multiple campgrounds.

• Age : Around 3 million years old
• Location : Vietnam
• Explore : Guided tours available
• Water pools : Vivid blue hue
• River : Flows through the cave
• Vegetation : Lush, fed by sunlight passing through erosion-formed openings

The sun filters through crevices, illuminating a hidden world where water mirrors the sky, and greenery drapes the walls, creating a spectacular natural phenomenon.

18. Hanoi’s Sanctuary of Scholarly Legacy

Nestled in Hanoi, the Temple of Literature is a testament to Confucius. Erected in the 11th century, it’s a monument to learning and the cradle of Vietnam’s first university.

• Founded : 11th century
• Dedication : Confucius and Vietnamese scholars

You’ll find a constellation of Confucius statues and his disciples alongside graceful pagodas within its walls. The Well of Heavenly Clarity is at the heart, a reflective pool amidst tranquil gardens.

• Statuary : Confucius & disciples
• Pagodas : Architectural beauty
• Pond : Well of Heavenly Clarity

Here, Vietnam’s storied scholastic tradition breathes a hallowed ground that continues to celebrate the nation’s intellectual heritage.

17. Bac Ha Market

Immerse yourself in the weekly spectacle as Bac Ha transforms into an epicenter of cultural exchange. On Sundays, this serene town buzzes with energy—locals donning traditional garments and the tantalizing aroma of regional delicacies. Here’s what catches the eye:

• Traditional Attire : Witness a vibrant parade of ethnic dress.
• Local Delicacies : Savor Hmong and Thai flavors unique to the area.
• Crafts and Goods : Peruse textiles and spices in a kaleidoscope of colors.
• Live Animals : Observe the traditional trading of water buffaloes.

Mingle with villagers, taste the coconut’s freshness, and enjoy the market’s lively ambiance.

16. Cham Islands

Venture out from the charming town of Hoi An to discover a group of scenic isles set against the East Vietnam Sea. Known as the Cham Islands, this archipelago is a tapestry of rugged granite cliffs and rich marine biodiversity, readily accessible via a short-speed boat trip.

What You’ll Experience:

• Natural Splendors : Embark on a day of exploration with birdwatching excursions, or plunge into the aquatic world as you snorkel among vibrant coral reefs.
• Sandy Retreats : Bask on serene beaches, letting the rhythm of the waves and the softness of the sands transport you to a tranquil state of mind.
• A Night Amidst Nature : For the daring, an overnight stay opens up a realm of starlit skies and the soothing sounds of the sea – a rare opportunity to connect deeply with this secluded paradise.

Remember, while day trips to the Cham Islands are the norm, overnight ventures are a unique privilege – plan accordingly to savor the essence of this untouched gem.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

15. Hang Nga’s Guesthouse in Da Lat

Step into the whimsical world of Da Lat’s Hang Nga Guesthouse , where architecture leaps into the realm of fantasy. Crafted by the innovative Vietnamese architect Dang Viet Nga, this abode draws inspiration from the eccentricities of Gaudi’s masterpieces.

• Design : Envision a living tree, its branches expanding beyond windows.
• Features : Twisting paths akin to caverns, meticulously carved animal figures that serve utility and beauty alike.

Immerse yourself in a stay where every corner beckons with a fairy-tale allure—this is no ordinary lodging experience.

14. Cao Dai Temple

Caodaism blends Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Roman Catholicism uniquely. You become part of a timeless tradition at the Cao Dai Temple, built in the 1930s. Witness, or even join, the four daily prayers within the grand sanctuary, adorned with intricate murals.

• Prayer Times : Experience spirituality as daily ceremonies unfold.
• Architecture : Murals depict a fusion of ideologies.
• Facilities : Beyond the temple, there’s a network of residences, offices, and a traditional medicine hospital.

Here, every chant and vibrant brushstroke tells the story of a faith deeply woven into Vietnam’s fabric.

13. Imperial Citadel in Hue

Nestled close to the demilitarized zone, Hue’s Imperial Citadel reveals a chapter of Vietnam’s royal narrative. From the early 19th century until World War II, the Nguyen dynasty was governed by these stately fortified walls, encompassing the exclusive Purple Forbidden City.

Embrace the blend of power and sanctity as you wander the royal grounds. Historically poignant and architecturally grand, the Citadel invites curiosity about Vietnam’s past.

Nestled in a lush valley and overlooked by the imposing Cat’s Tooth Mountain are the historic ruins of My Son. Rising from the Vietnamese countryside near Duy Phú, these remnants of Hindu temples, crafted by the Champa civilization long ago, evoke a sense of ancient sanctity.

What remains of My Son holds the echoes of a past civilization, where each stone tells a story of devotion and time’s relentless march. As you wander through the ruins, the blend of nature and architecture creates a poignant backdrop, transporting you to a different era far from modern distractions.

11. Phong Nha Caves

Venture deep into the heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, where you’ll find the Phong Nha Caves, a labyrinthine network that rivals the complexity of a city beneath the earth.

• Hang Son Doong : Marvel at the colossal chamber, so grand you could fit skyscrapers inside.
• Son Trach Village : Your essential hub, this locale is the perfect starting point to plunge into subterranean adventures.
• Essentials : Coordinate with guides here for an unforgettable journey underground, where history and geology intertwine in darkness and beauty.

Immerse yourself in the caves’ grandeur and mystery—you’re about to uncover an underground empire that’s stood the test of time.

10. Nha Trang

Nha Trang awaits with its inviting coastal appeal, boasting one of Vietnam’s most splendid bays. Imagine your toes sinking into soft, pristine sands while gazing over sheer ocean clarity, feeling the sun’s gentle warmth. This dynamic urban area is home to around 300,000 locals and contrasts more serene beach spots like Mui Ne or Phu Quoc.

Beyond relaxation, Nha Trang holds the crown as Vietnam’s hub for scuba diving. Dive in and uncover the vivid marine life beneath its gentle waves.

9. Cu Chi Tunnels

Beneath the surface near Ho Chi Minh City lies a warren known as the Cu Chi Tunnels, stretching over 40 km northwest. This subterranean maze was crucial to the guerrilla tactics of Viet Cong soldiers, particularly during the pivotal 1968 Tet Offensive.

Today, you can navigate portions of this famed underground network, feeling the earth’s embrace as history envelops you. Whether inching through confining passageways or exploring commodious bunkers, the tunnels offer a unique perspective on the ingenuity of war times.

While adventuring through these former hideouts, consider how they once served as silent witnesses to clandestine operations. Now a revered historical site, these tunnels have been carefully preserved, allowing adventurers like you an immersive glimpse into the past.

8. Mekong Delta

As you journey to Southern Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, you’ll navigate a network where the Mekong River converges with the sea. This verdant expanse is Vietnam’s rice bowl, contributing significantly to its agriculture.

Here, the river is the heartbeat of daily life, with communities dotting the waterfront more often reached by boats than by roads.

• Lush rice paddies
• Riverine life

Travel Tips :

• Opt for boat tours
• Explore local villages

Within this fertile zone, every bend in the waterway tells a story of tradition and sustenance.

Once a pristine shore south of a bustling angler hub, Mui Ne has transformed over two decades. Renowned for its strong sea breezes, it’s now a haven for the kite-surf and wind-surf aficionados.

Venture northward from the town to discover the iconic dunes. These vast, sun-kissed dunes offer expansive vistas, particularly enchanting at sunset. Here, each grain tells a story of transformation—both of nature and Mui Ne itself.

6. Sa Pa Terraces

As you navigate through the lush Muong Hoa valley, the sight of the Sa Pa terraces unfolds before you—a testament to agriculture-turned-art.

Here, ethnic communities such as the Hmong, Giay, Dao, Tay, and Giay cultivate tiers of rice paddies. Their fields trace contours along the slopes between the grandeur of Fansipan Mountain and the verdant bamboo forests. These verdant steps nourish the body and soul as they encapsulate the harmony between man and nature.

See Related: Is Uber Available in Vietnam?

5. Phu Quoc

Imagine standing on the edge of Vietnam’s largest island , Phu Quoc, gazing out over the calm, azure waters that hug its coastline. Here, nature flourishes, with lush tropical forests enveloping much of the island, home to untouched coral sanctuaries teeming with marine life.

• Beaches to behold: Discover Bai Dai (Long Beach), acclaimed for its uninterrupted beauty and cleanliness.
• Culinary heritage: Relish in Phu Quoc’s claim to fame, its world-renowned nuoc mam or fermented fish sauce, a staple of Vietnamese cuisine.

This gem, positioned off the Cambodian coast, offers an idyllic escape from the bustling tourist paths. Your journey to Phu Quoc is not simply a retreat but a sensory exploration into a less-trodden Vietnam.

In the embrace of the South China Sea, Hoi An emerges as a historical port city boasting an Old Town brimming with heritage. Dating back to the 16th century, its prestige as an international port is echoed in the antiquated charm of its lanes and Chinese-flavored architecture.

• Saunter through Old Town: a labyrinth of cobbled streets lined with shops that beckon with a mix of eras.
• Navigate the narrow canals: reminiscent of a quaint Vietnamese Venice, inviting a picturesque journey through the city’s aqueous veins.

With each step in Hoi An, you’re walking on the whispers of maritime history, now cradled by cozy cafes and ambient streets that tell tales of a storied past.

3. The Allure of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake, the gem in Hanoi’s vibrant core, is a tranquil haven amidst the urban bustle. Its name, translating to “Lake of the Returned Sword,” is steeped in the legacy of King Le Loi, who, as legend has it, received a divine sword that won Vietnam its freedom.

He honored this gift by relinquishing it to the lake’s mystical Golden Turtle God.

• Notable feature : The picturesque lake in Hanoi’s historic center
• Meaning : “Lake of the Returned Sword”
• Origin of name : A legend of King Le Loi and a magical sword
• Travel tip : Ideal for a stroll to absorb local culture

2. Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue

Standing majestically at seven tiers, the Thien Mu Pagoda isn’t just the tallest in Vietnam; it’s a poetic landmark atop the Perfume River bank.

Originating in 1601 under Nguyen’s rule, it’s a proud emblem of Hue’s past emperors. Initially humble, its evolution brought ornate designs accenting its spiritual aura.

• Height : Seven stories
• Significance : Symbol of Hue’s imperial history
• Established : 1601 by the Nguyễn Lords
• Location : Overlooking the Perfume River
• Evolution : Expanded from simple origins to intricate architecture

Embrace the serene ambiance as you explore, and feel the layers of history with each upward gaze.

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, embracing a stretch of Vietnam’s northern coastline for about 120 kilometers, holds the title of Vietnam’s premiere destination.

Imagine a vast bay where dragons are said to have descended, dense jungle crowning towering islands of limestone majestically rising from emerald waters.

• Islands: Over a thousand, each boasting its eco-system.
• Caves: Vast caverns ready to explore.
• Wildlife: Rich jungle habitats.
• Culture: Floating fishing villages offer a glimpse into local life.

The canvas of karst formations conceals grand caverns beneath, while some islands cradle serene lakes, and others are alive with the daily rhythms of fisherfolk on waterborne homesteads.

Remember to respect the natural beauty and the deep cultural heritage as you navigate this mystical landscape.

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

20 Epic Landmarks in Vietnam You Should Visit

27 July 2023 · In: Asia , Travel , Vietnam

Here is a complete guide to the  top 20 landmarks in Vietnam  that you should add to your bucket list! 

Are you planning a  holiday in Vietnam  and looking for the  best places to visit  on your adventure? You have come to the right place! This article guides you through  20 cultural and natural landmarks  you should not miss, whether you are backpacking solo or travelling with friends or family.

Vietnam is a  stunning Asian country full of history  and has much to offer! From vibrant rice terraces to local villages and ancient temples, you will find  plenty of things to do  for a vacation full of variety and surprises.

I visited Vietnam for 15 days a few years ago and fell in love with this  gorgeous country . We focused on the north, but I wish we had more time to head down and explore the south. Wherever you go, you will be amazed by   its  unique culture and architecture  and certainly come home with a head full of memories.

So, are you ready to discover the  top 20 Vietnamese landmarks you must visit ? Let’s get started! And, of course, let me know in the comments below if you have any other suggestions 💚

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

20- Po Nagar Temple

Overview: top 20 landmarks in vietnam.

1- Hạ Long Bay 2- Hanoi Old Quarter 3- Hội An Ancient Town 4- Củ Chi Tunnels 5- Sapa Rice Terraces 6- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum 7- Danang Golden Bridge 8- Bản Giốc Waterfall 9- Imperial City of Huế 10- Marble Mountains

11- Tam Cốc 12- Sơn Đoòng Cave 13- The Temple of Literature 14- Thiên Mụ Pagoda 15- War Remnants Museum 16- One Pillar Pagoda 17- Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary 18- The Crazy House 19- Tomb of Khải Định 20- Po Nagar Temple

Must-see landmarks in Vietnam – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

20 best landmarks to visit in Vietnam

Selecting the best landmarks to visit in Vietnam was not an easy task! There are so many beautiful must-see attractions in the country, with many less-visited spots and hidden gems .

However, I believe these 20 stunning cultural sites will give you a great insight into the history of Vietnam and provide a memorable vacation for all travellers, whether you are exploring solo or with friends. Enjoy!

1- Hạ Long Bay

Hạ Long Bay is   one of the  most famous natural landmarks  in Vietnam, known for its emerald-green waters and thousands of rugged islands topped with rainforests. 

You can discover the area by  hopping on a boat tour  or  joining a sea kayak expedition  to navigate those awe-inspiring islands and stop at breathtaking caves where you can walk around and admire age-old formations.

Whilst Hạ Long Bay is on the  bucket list  of many travellers and one of the  most popular tourist attractions  in the world, it is still possible to find a quiet spot to explore, and the site is  worth the visit , any time of the year.

Moreover, you will find  many things to do and activities possible , such as scuba diving, rock climbing and hiking – a true haven for adventure enthusiasts, especially in Cát Bà National Park.

Things to do & see in Hạ Long Bay

• Join a boat cruise
• Explore Cát Bà Island
• Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay
• Snorkel & dive near Cong Do Island
• Relax at Ti Top Beach
• Try yourself at rock climbing
• Visit the Quang Ninh Museum
• Wander the Cai Bau Pagoda
• Discover Vung Vieng floating village
• Stop by Tuan Chau Island

Unforgettable experiences I recommend

2- hanoi old quarter.

The Old Quarter in Hanoi is the  historic neighbourhood  of the capital, home to old narrow streets, a vibrant night market, green spaces and antique shops. It is a fascinating area to  explore on foot  and soak up the  lively Vietnamese atmosphere and culture . 

Consisting of  36 bustling streets  with a mix of architectural styles, this district is a  must-see for any traveller  visiting Vietnam. Wander around and get lost, uncover secret places, visit one of the  coolest bars  in the capital or stop to enjoy a  delicious coffee . One thing is for sure: you will not get bored! 

READ MORE: 3 Perfect Days in Hanoi: Complete Itinerary

Things to do & see in Hanoi Old Quarter

• Get lost in the ancient streets
• Relax by the Hoàn Kiếm Lake
• Visit one of its lively markets
• Taste the local street food
• Discover Bach Ma Temple
• Explore Ngoc Son Temple
• Experience Hanoi nightlife

3- Hội An Ancient Town

Just down the Thu Bon River, the Ancient Town of Hội An is an incredibly  well-preserved example of an Asian trading port  dating from the 15th to the 20th centuries and another gem worth visiting.

With its traditional architecture, quaint cobbled streets and unique yellow storefronts decorated with colourful lanterns, it is no wonder it is one of the  most beautiful places in Vietnam  – and a  UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site  since 1999, emphasising its status as a living museum. 

Not only is Hội An Ancient Town a  popular tourist attraction , but it is also a  fascinating architectural complex . Wander its picturesque streets on foot, visit one of its old shops, take photos of the iconic  Japanese Covered Bridge  or taste one of the culinary specialities of the town. 

My personal experience – Hội An was my favourite town to explore! I was amazed by its bright architecture and unique atmosphere, and I loved photographing its colourful lanterns. It is a true gem to discover and something you should not miss on your trip to Vietnam. 

Things to do & see in Hội An Ancient Town

• Wander through the Ancient Town
• Experience the Lantern Festival
• Hop on a riverboat tour
• See the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Visit one of the many museums
• Stop by the Hội An Silk Village
• Discover the Fujian Assembly Hall
• Shop for local handicrafts

4- Củ Chi Tunnels

Just outside of Ho Chi Minh City, in the jungle, you will find one of the  most iconic attractions  in Vietnam: the Củ Chi Tunnels. These  maze-like underground tunnels  represent a huge complex that the Viet Cong soldiers used during the Vietnam War.

Plan your visit in advance (book your tour online below) and explore this  sophisticated hidden system  to have a first-hand experience with Vietnamese history and the lives of its soldiers.

However, keep in mind before visiting the site that these  tunnels are incredibly narrow , which would not be recommended for people with claustrophobia.

Despite this, the Củ Chi Tunnels are one of the  most captivating sites  in Vietnam and an activity you should add to your bucket list.

5- Sapa Rice Terraces

Located in the Muong Hoa Valley, Sapa is a remote region of northern Vietnam known for its  lush rice terraces  and  scenic mountain views  – the perfect place for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts! 

The area is considered one of the  most stunning natural wonders  and a  must-visit destination  for anyone travelling through Vietnam, whether you love the outdoors or not.

However, joining a  multi-day trekking expedition  is one of the best ways to experience the region, as you will immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes featuring  ethnic villages  and  vibrant rice paddies  tumbling down the mountain slopes.

My personal experience – Sapa was one of the highlights of my backpacking trip through Vietnam and an experience I highly recommend! Rent a motorbike and explore the area yourself or join a guided tour with a local to discover this stunning region and its hidden gems. 

Things to do & see in Sapa

• Visit Cat Cat village
• Ride the cable car to Fansipan
• Hike to Love Waterfall
• Walk to Silver Waterfall
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
• Discover Tram Ton Pass
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley

6- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located in Hanoi and is a  significant historical attraction  known as the resting place of Vietnamese revolutionary leader and President Ho Chi Minh. 

It is one of the  most famous landmarks  in Vietnam for its great cultural and historical importance and a must-visit on your trip. 

Exploring the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is  free  and will allow you to develop your knowledge of the country and learn more about the  life of Ho Chi Minh  and his  impact on Vietnamese history .

👉🏻 An unforgettable tour I recommend which includes a visit to the Mausoleum:  Hanoi: Morning or Afternoon City Highlights Tour .

7- Danang Golden Bridge

The Danang Golden Bridge is a 150-meter-long  pedestrian golden bridge  uniquely designed with  two giant hands , making it the go-to place for photos and sightseeing! 

This masterpiece opened its doors in 2018 and has become an  iconic tourist attraction  that you will find in a prime location inside the  Ba Na Hills , an  amusement park  located 30 minutes from Da Nang in central Vietnam.

So if you are looking for an  original and memorable adventure , step inside the entertainment complex and enjoy the view from this particular bridge. But remember to  plan your visit in advance  to avoid the crowds, as the site has become incredibly popular.

8- Bản Giốc Waterfall

Bản Giốc is the name of  two waterfalls on the Quây Sơn River  that straddle the international border between China and Vietnam in the  Cao Bằng Province . 

The waterfalls are one of the  natural gems  of Vietnam and a  must-see destination  on your trip to the north. 

And because of its remote location, Bản Giốc is ideal for  getting away from crowded  and more visited tourist attractions and experiencing the  wild and untouched beauty  of the region – perfect for adventurous travellers who want to explore whilst seeking peace.

Things to do & see in Bản Giốc

• Enjoy picturesque viewing points
• Book a bamboo raft tour to get closer
• Walk around the waterfalls
• Explore the Quây Sơn River
• Discover the Nguom Ngao Cave

9- Imperial City of Huế

The Imperial City is a  walled fortress  located in the city of Huế, the former imperial capital of Vietnam under the Nguyễn dynasty. The site features shrines, gardens, villas and palaces that once housed the imperial family.

Listed as a  UNESCO World Cultural Heritage  site in 1993, the Imperial City is one of the  most famous landmarks  in Vietnam and a  must-see attraction  for anyone exploring the country. 

During your visit, you will find  historical buildings  actively restored and preserved after their destruction during the Vietnam War, with remains of many  architectural works, temples and palaces  of exceptional cultural importance.

10- Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are a group of  five marble and limestone hills  located in the Ngũ Hành Sơn district, a few kilometres from Da Nang. Interestingly, those five peaks are named after the  five elements of life : Kim Son (metal), Thủy Son (water), Mộc Son (wood/plant), Hỏa Son (fire) and Thổ Son (earth). 

Considered  historical gems  and  natural wonders  with a  spiritual setting , the Marble Mountains are a fascinating place to explore, offering a network of  caves, tunnels, towers and pagodas .

So be sure to add them to your Vietnam itinerary and enjoy the  stunning scenery  whilst immersing yourself in nature and learning more about the  local culture .

11- Tam Cốc

Tam Cốc is a  popular tourist destination  in northern Vietnam, part of the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Located in the Ninh Binh province, it is an appealing natural landmark featuring  lush green rice terraces, impressive caves and limestone mountains .

Tam Cốc is an excellent place for anyone interested in nature and outdoor activities, as there is plenty to do and see!  Hope on a   boat tour  to discover its glistening rivers,  rent a bike  and explore the region or climb to the top of its legendary peaks for  spectacular views .

My personal experience – Tam Cốc is a place that left me speechless! I loved exploring the region on a motorbike and discovering its hidden gem. One of my favourite things to do was take a boat cruise on its river, passing through stunning caves and stopping by temples.

Things to do & see in Tam Cốc and nearby

• Take a Tam Coc boat ride
• Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Go on a bike tour around the countryside
• Discover Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
• Stop by the Bai Dinh Pagoda

12- Sơn Đoòng Cave

Sơn Đoòng Cave is located in Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park in Quảng Bình Province and is one of the  largest natural caves in the world  (based on volume) discovered in 1991. 

Home to underground rivers, tropical jungle, exotic wildlife and impressive stalagmites, the cave is a  stunning natural wonder  and offers an experience you will never forget! 

However, one of the only ways to discover it is by joining a  Son Doong Expedition Tour , a  multi-day trekking expedition  guiding you through spectacular landscapes, an activity incredibly popular among travellers who love  adventure and thrills .

13- The Temple of Literature

The  Temple of Literature , Văn Miếu, was founded in 1070 to honour the Chinese philosopher Confucius. It then became the  first university complex  in Vietnam, also known as the Imperial Academy, which has educated hundreds of renowned scholars and mandarins for over 700 years.

And despite the war, the site has retained its  architectural and cultural beauty  and remains a  recognised historical relic .

Surrounded by brick walls and covering an area of  over 54,000 square meters , the Temple of Literature holds  five courtyards  of different styles, perfect for a day of exploration.

Step inside its walls and be mesmerised by its  magnificence and tranquillity . You will also have the chance to learn more about the  history and culture of Vietnam  since its early days. 

14- Thiên Mụ Pagoda

Thiên Mụ Pagoda is a  historic temple  and one of the  top attractions  in the city of Huế due to its  outstanding history, atmosphere and location , sitting on Hà Khê Hill. It is, without a doubt, one of the  most fascinating Vietnamese landmarks  to add to your bucket list! 

Set in a city where  national cultural gems  have been perfectly preserved, the Thiên Mụ Pagoda is one of them. The religious site is a must-visit for its  iconic seven-story architecture , holiness and mythology, filled with mysterious legends and secret historical tales.

Immerse yourself in  one of the oldest temples  and have fun exploring the unique and fascinating features of this  400-year-old holy sanctuary .

👉🏻 An unforgettable tour I recommend which includes a visit to the Pagoda:  Hue: Royal Tombs and Thien Mu Pagoda Private Guided Tour .

15- War Remnants Museum

Another landmark not to miss in Vietnam is the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the  most famous historical museums  in the country and a place to learn more about the past and the  impact of the Vietnam War .

Carrying an  immense historical and political significance , you will uncover  numerous exhibits  on the war that will challenge and grow your understanding and knowledge.

16- One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda is a  historic Buddhist temple  in Hanoi and a top tourist attraction due to its  unique architectural features  and  cultural significance . 

Also known as the Dien Huu Pagoda, the temple is named after its extraordinary characteristics of being  built on one single pillar  planted in a lotus pond to resemble a blossoming lotus emerging from the water.

Visiting this  symbolic monument  offers an unforgettable and eye-opening experience for all travellers and should be on your bucket list as you explore the Vietnamese capital. 

But remember to  be respectful  of the place! This landmark is not only a famous tourist destination but also a  religious site  for local people.

👉🏻 An unforgettable tour I recommend which includes a visit to the Pagoda:  Hanoi: Morning or Afternoon City Highlights Tour .

17- Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary

Mỹ Sơn is an  abandoned temple complex  in central Vietnam constructed between the 4th and the 14th centuries by the Kings of Champa, displaying  historical, cultural and architectural values  developed over 10 centuries.

This stunning  UNESCO World Heritage Site  includes more than 70 structures and comprehensive buried archaeology, differing in structural style to reflect the  different periods of the Cham Kingdom .

Discover outstanding  red-brick temples and towers  and venture on a spiritual journey through a  peaceful jungle scene  that will transport you back in time. And whilst these partly ruined structures are a popular tourist attraction for all ages, they are also a  perfect destination for history buffs and photo lovers , especially at sunrise!

18- The Crazy House

Hằng Nga Guesthouse, famously known as the Crazy House, is an  uncommon building full of passion and fantasy  designed by Vietnamese architect Đặng Việt Nga in Đà Lạt.

This unusual landmark has become a  popular tourist destination  due to its  quirky architecture , which resembles a giant tree incorporating elements depicting nature, such as animals, mushrooms and caves. 

The Crazy House is a  fascinating place to explore for all ages , as you will immerse yourself in an enchanted world and be amazed by its intricate design, representing  artistic freedom  and the  beauty of nature . 

And not only is this building a lovely place to enjoy and wander, but  you can also sleep in it ! The hotel proposes  guest rooms  for those who want to get closer to nature, with each room featuring a different theme – for a night you will never forget. 

👉🏻 An unforgettable tour I recommend which includes a visit to the Crazy House:  8-Hour DaLat Countryside with Silk Village, Elephant Falls .

19- Tomb of Khải Định

The Tomb of Khải Định is the  burial place  of the 12th Emperor of the Nguyễn Dynasty and one of the  most visited attractions in Huế  for its  historical significance  and its mix of Vietnamese architecture with Western styles. 

Add this  fascinating landmark  to your bucket list if you are passing through the area and step back in time as you explore the  most impressive and sophisticated of the seven imperial tombs  and marvel at its ancient beauty.

We end our  top 20 Vietnamese landmarks  with Po Nagar Temple, a Cham temple tower founded before 781 and one of the  most attractive destinations  to visit in Nha Trang City. 

As you wander through the historical site, you will uncover  beautiful Champa architecture  and learn more about the past of the Cham people. It is a fascinating place to explore due to its stunning  artwork and architecture  – so do not forget your camera!

You will find the Po Nagar Temple a few kilometres from the centre of Nha Trang City on the Cu Lao Hil next to the Cai River, offering a  natural scenic backdrop  in harmony with mountains and rivers – nothing better for a memorable experience.

Shop the printable backpacking planner

Plan your epic adventure & live an unforgettable trip in Vietnam.

Tips for reducing your eco-impact in Vietnam

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between rich culture, ethnic villages and stunning nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Being mindful of the places you visit and the people you meet is essential to their protection.

Here are some  eco-friendly travel tips for reducing your carbon footprint  when travelling across Vietnam and exploring its main landmarks: 

Sustainable Tips

• Book direct flights and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your backpack to be ready for your green adventure. For example, take a  filtered water bottle  to stay hydrated on the go.
• Engage in tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife . Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more rooted in money than traditional culture! Choose a local operator with a responsible tourism policy (check out their website or ask questions). And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. 
• If snorkelling or scuba diving, be sure to choose a responsible operator . In addition, be respectful of marine life. Never touch or step on coral, and wear  reef-safe sunscreen  which is good for your skin and the planet.
• Hire a local guide if possible.  You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.
• Shop local souvenirs . Buy crafts at local markets and ask questions about the product and its origins. Never purchase items from endangered species.
• Eat at local restaurants and tip your guides, hotel and restaurant staff . It may be small for you but can significantly impact their income.
• Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites . Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words!

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Vietnam travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Vietnam? Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your memorable trip across Vietnam stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

💧 Can you drink the water in Vietnam? No, drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

🛵 Is it easy to rent a motorbike in Vietnam? Yes, renting a motorbike or motorscooter in Vietnam is easy and cheap (just ask your guesthouse or hotel) and is a great way to explore the country freely. To go further, try to prioritise the bike!

🏨 How to book accommodation in Vietnam? The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Vietnam? I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Exploring Vietnam – FAQ

Hạ Long Bay is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Vietnam, known for its emerald-green waters and thousands of rugged islands topped with rainforests – offering an experience you will never forget!

The best time to visit Vietnam is between November and April, when the country enjoys mild temperatures with the least rainfall. However, remember that Vietnam is a vast country where the weather will differ depending on the region.

I suggest spending at least 14 days in Vietnam to have enough time to travel and see the main attractions and landmarks at each stop without rushing. On the other hand, spending more time is always a great thing. It will allow you to see more and truly connect with the culture and locals! 

And you, what is your favourite landmark in Vietnam?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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10 best places to visit in Vietnam in 2024

10 best beaches in vietnam, 20 best things to do in vietnam, 15 must-try vietnamese dishes, ao dai – vietnamese traditional dress.

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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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Vietnam Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know Before Going to Vietnam

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If you are planning a visit to Vietnam and have never been to SE Asia before, be prepared for a bit of culture shock. The traffic is horrendous, many people don’t speak English, the food is not what you’re used to, cleanliness standards are quite different, and you may have to use the occasional squatty potty.

But if you mentally prepare yourself for the challenges and excitement that lie ahead, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this beautiful, diverse, and amazing country! After traveling all over Vietnam, we decided to move to Saigon last year, and all of our time here has allowed us to narrow down the most important Vietnam travel tips.

Based on our experience living in Vietnam and traveling the country extensively, we have compiled a list of 15 things you should know before visiting Vietnam so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises.

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).

15 Travel Tips for Visiting Vietnam

1. arrange your visa before arriving in vietnam.

Unlike neighboring Thailand and Cambodia , most visitors can’t simply arrive in Vietnam and get stamped into the country. All nationalities outside of Southeast Asia require some type of visa or preapproval letter before arriving in Vietnam.

Fortunately, it’s actually easy for citizens of most countries to obtain a visa either through the new eVisa process or by being pre-approved for a visa on arrival.

Unfortunately, the visa process for Vietnam is made more confusing by the proliferation of travel agencies offering the pre-approval service and competing for your business online. There are a lot of official-looking websites that aren’t really official. Many of these sites have the word “government” or “govt” in their URL to be tricky.

There is only one official eVisa site maintained by the Vietnamese government: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt . If you want a 30-day, single-entry e-visa you should proceed directly to that URL.

However, if you want to stay longer than 30 days or want a multiple entry visa, you’ll need to select one of the official-looking but not-official tourist agencies to provide you with a pre-approval letter to visit Vietnam.

For the most part, they are all legit, so your chances of getting scammed out of a few dollars are relatively low. But it sure makes things confusing!

We can personally vouch for the authenticity of  http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/ as we’ve used them several times and never had any issues.

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 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!

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

• Find an online service like  http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/ 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.

2. It’s Best to Fly in Vietnam

Vietnam is a very long, thin country. From the city of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, the distance is over 1,000 miles and would take about 30 hours by car. Even with a whole month in Vietnam , if you want to hit all of the highlights in the south, central, and northern regions, you should definitely plan on flying.

If you take a bus or the train, you may save a few dollars, but you’ll waste a ton of time covering these massive distances. Plus, you can find really inexpensive domestic flights, especially if you book ahead. Vietjet Air is a popular domestic carrier with inexpensive flights (although it is not the most punctual airline).

Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

3. Be Prepared for the Heat (and the Cold)

Whether you’re visiting south, central, or northern Vietnam, you can expect a lot of heat and humidity. The climate of the entire country is considered to be mild tropical or subtropical. So if your hair is like mine and turns into an unruly mop at the slightest hint of humidity, consider yourself screwed. Plus, any makeup you apply will slide off your face within 30 seconds of stepping outside.

Overall, you can expect some rain in the summer and autumn months, especially if you are visiting Vietnam from July to November. And in the north, the temperatures can get quite cold during the winter months (December – February), with occasional snow in the mountains around Sapa .

Central Vietnam is generally warm year-round and can get so unbearably hot in the summer months. Make sure you take this into account if you want to visit Hue , Hoi An , or Da Nang . The intense summer heat can make it so that leaving your air-conditioned hotel room takes the maximum amount of effort.

Be sure to check the weather in every city that you plan on visiting in Vietnam prior to departing so that you can plan (and pack) accordingly.

4. Learn Some Vietnamese

English is taught in schools in many countries in SE Asia, so locals tend to be multilingual. This is especially true of anyone working in shops, restaurants, hotels, or places that tourists frequent. And many people want to learn English as tourism is seen as a very lucrative profession. So getting around without a phrasebook or any basic conversational dialect is no problem.

But in rural parts of Vietnam, many people do not speak any English at all. Or if they do, it is incredibly basic. Even at restaurants, shops, and some hotels, you may have a challenging time communicating to place an order or ask how much something costs.

Plan on learning a few phrases to get around. “Xin chào” (pronounced “sin jow”) means “hello” and “cảm ơn” (pronounced “kam on”) is “thank you”. And the one you’ll probably use most frequently – “bia” (pronounced “bee-ah”) means “beer”. Use Google Translate and pick up a Vietnamese phrase book to help you get around.

5. Crossing the Street is Terrifying

The traffic in Vietnam is world-renowned for being insane. But not as much because of cars, more because of the thousands of motorbikes that dominate the roadways, weaving in and out of traffic. Walk signals and the white lines that generally indicate “pedestrian crossing” zones don’t hold much weight here. Motorbikes and cars will not stop for pedestrians unless they absolutely have to.

And since motorbike drivers don’t follow classic traffic rules – such as staying off of the sidewalks, going the right way down a one-way street, or stopping for red lights – you’ll have to be on high alert every time you attempt to cross the street.

As a general rule, you should begin walking confidently once you see a break in traffic and have faith that the cars and motorbikes will weave around you. They probably won’t stop, but they won’t actually hit you. Drivers seem to be better about this in Ho Chi Minh City and not as effective in Hanoi . Regardless, use caution and don’t expect your normal pedestrian rights from home to apply in Vietnam.

6. Get a Vietnamese SIM Card

You’ll find that even in remote areas of the country, including Sapa , Halong Bay , and Ninh Binh , the Wi-Fi signal is strong. And if you have a phone that is unlocked, you can pick up a Vietnamese sim card and get 60 gigs of data for less than $10. The 4G service works great pretty much everywhere.

No need to upgrade your cell service from home to an international plan while visiting Vietnam!

Viettel vs. MobiFone vs Vinaphone: Which is better? During multiple trips to Vietnam, we have used Mobifone, Viettel, and Vinaphone. We recommend Viettel – it is hands down the best Vietnam SIM card for tourists .

7. It’s Really, Really Cheap

The caveat to this is that you can certainly spend a lot and find luxury tours and accommodations while visiting Vietnam if you choose. But if you are on a moderate budget like us (we generally spend $80-100/day between the two of us), it’s really easy to do here.

You can find lovely boutique hotels in the $30-40 USD/night range and really comfy Airbnbs for around $20-25 USD/night. If you’re living in Vietnam long-term, you can rent an apartment or house for around $300-600/month. Trains and buses are quite affordable and comfortable. And if you use the Grab app instead of taxis, you’ll rarely pay more than a few dollars to get anywhere in the city.

Food is quite cheap as well. If you don’t mind eating on tiny plastic stools, you can get a filling meal for around $2 USD. Even fancy meals rarely cost more than $20 USD per person. Domestic beer is generally less than $1 USD per can or bottle. And if you plan on shopping for souvenirs, you’ll be expected to haggle a bit on prices. Start by offering 50% of their asking price, and you’ll end up meeting somewhere in the middle.

8. Check the Toilet Seat before Sitting

The toilet situation in SE Asia takes some getting used to. Most bathrooms in Vietnam have adopted Western-style toilets over squatty potties (although you may encounter one every now and again). But often, you’ll need to pay to use them (generally 2,000 VND). And they don’t always have toilet paper. Most Vietnamese people prefer to use sprayers to clean their bums.

And that spray water gets all over the toilet seat. No one seems to have an interest in cleaning up after themselves. If I had $1 for every time I’ve accidentally sat down on a wet toilet seat in SE Asia, I’d be able to travel forever. Carry some tissues in your pocket and give the seat a good wipe before you sit down.

9. Always Wear a Helmet, it’s the Law

In December of 2007, Vietnam enacted a comprehensive mandatory helmet law to help to lessen the country’s traffic fatalities. Vietnam is the second-highest country in SE Asia for traffic fatalities with 24.5 per 100,000. And motorbikes are much more common than cars here, accounting for 95% of registered vehicles in the country.

The law is strictly enforced and today, you’ll see most people wearing them around cities. And it’s helped. A lot. The AIP Foundation estimates that 15,000 fatalities and 500,000 injuries have been prevented in the 10 years since the law was enacted.

As a foreigner, you’ll be expected to wear one as well during your visit to Vietnam. And not just if/when you rent a motorbike, you’ll also need one if you take one of the many Grab bikes that dominate the roadways. But don’t worry, they’ll have an extra one for you to use.

10. Use Grab, not Taxis

Speaking of Grab, you should plan on using this service rather than taxis. Grab is the Uber of SE Asia. Simply download the app and find a driver anytime you need a ride. Keep in mind it often takes longer than hailing a taxi, and the drivers occasionally cancel the ride, but it’s far easier than having to negotiate your taxi fare prior to departing. And it’s so much cheaper!

You can load your credit card info or opt to pay cash for each ride. You’ll rarely pay more than $2 USD to get around the city. You’ll save yourself a ton of time, money, and hassle if you use Grab during your visit to Vietnam – trust us!

11. Don’t Expect to Walk on the Sidewalk

There are plenty of wide sidewalks in the cities of Vietnam, so you might think you can escape the crazy traffic, right? Wrong. You’ll find that most of the time, you have to walk in the street anyway because the sidewalks are filled with dozens of parked motorbikes or plastic restaurant tables.

Why Vietnam has decided that motorbike parking is more important than having a place for pedestrians to walk is beyond me. And frankly, it’s really annoying in the touristy areas of Hanoi and Saigon. But as mentioned above, motorbike drivers are good about weaving around pedestrians in Vietnam.

You’ll appreciate towns like Hoi An that have designated pedestrian areas, so you don’t have to worry about getting sideswiped by a motorbike while wandering down the side of the road.

12. Get a Debit Card that Refunds International ATM Fees

It’s pretty rare to find ATMs in Vietnam that will dispense more than 3,000,000 VND (~$130 USD), and many will only give you 2,000,000 VND (~$85 USD) at a time. Plus, you’ll be charged a transaction fee each time you use one that will range from $1 – $5 USD. And it’s pretty rare to find restaurants, bars, or shops that take a Visa card. If they do, they generally charge an additional 3% as well.

We’ve also found ourselves needing to visit up to five ATMs before finally finding one that will actually work. So don’t wait until the last minute to withdraw cash or give yourself a small window of time. Surprisingly, we had the most difficult time finding ATMs that would take foreign cards in downtown Hanoi.

Be sure to check with your bank prior to departing to ensure that they refund international ATM charges. Also, check to make sure they don’t charge international fees. You’ll also need to call your bank to release your cards for international use.

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 while traveling. We use the Chase card for booking hotels and tours and our Charles Schwab card for getting money out of the ATM when visiting Vietnam.

13. It’s Not as Conservative as You Think

Prior to visiting Vietnam, I was under the impression that I’d need to dress very conservatively. And while many people do tend to keep their shoulders and knees covered, regardless of the blazing temperatures, many younger locals show far more skin than I was anticipating.

And the rules are more relaxed when visiting temples in Vietnam compared to some of its neighbors. There are signs requesting that visitors cover up, but they are rarely followed or enforced.

You may feel a bit uncomfortable wandering around town in a half-shirt but don’t be afraid to pack shorts or dresses for your Vietnam vacation.

14. It’s Also Not as Communist as You Think

Vietnam is one of only five communist countries that still remain in the world today. However, you won’t encounter much evidence of communism as you go about your day as a tourist. Most businesses are privately owned, and there is a strong sense of capitalism in the country.

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis full of highrise buildings and it even has its own stock exchange. And a new generation of young Vietnamese entrepreneurs is hard at work on cool new startups in industries ranging from tech to craft beer .

Ho Chi Minh (affectionately known as “Uncle Ho”) is still revered as the liberator of Vietnam by both the French and the Americans, but the tides seem to be rapidly and decidedly turning towards capitalism.

In case you’re wondering… the other four communist countries are China, Cuba, Laos, and North Korea. 

15. Remember – here it’s Called The American War

It’s not called the Vietnam War here. We were invading their country, after all.

But don’t worry – relations were normalized between the US and Vietnam in the mid-1990s thanks to efforts by then-President Bill Clinton and Senator John McCain, who spent five years as a POW in Hoa Lo prison in Hanoi during the war.

These days the American War is a distant memory, and you’ll find the Vietnamese hold no ill will against Americans. In fact, if someone finds out that you’re American, they will probably start telling you all about their extended family that now lives in America. Many Vietnamese in the south worked for the US military during the war, and they were offered asylum in the US when the American troops finally pulled out of Saigon.

That’s it – 15 Vietnam travel tips! Do you have any advice for traveling to Vietnam? Let us know in the comments below.

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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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6 thoughts on “vietnam travel tips: 15 things to know before going to vietnam”.

Looks like the http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/  web site is defunct.

You guys are my go-to for helpful info! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us in super easy terms! Just one question – you said you have to upload a “passport photo” for the evisa, but then you say in parenthesis “straight looking without glasses” as if we can take our own picture. So do we HAVE to use an official passport photo (the passport photo will be on the passport info page anyway), or can we take our own picture for that one part?

Hey Kate – we’re so happy to hear that! Yeah, you can take your own photo to upload for the evisa, we’ve done that a ton. Just take it in front of a white background and check the photo size requirements. Good luck!

Hi, Can you tell where in Ho Chi Minh City is the good place for FX to get local currency?

Thank you for this insightful blog post. I found it extremely helpful.

Awesome job you guys have done to help travellers worldwide when visiting Vietnan. However, just a note that China and the other countries mentioned are light-years distant from communists in essence, it is worth comparing their government models with basic concepts proposed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels on their books. Instead, China represents a governmental dictatorship where gaps between wealthy and poor are massive, typically as in most capitalist countries worldwide.

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Wander-Lush

10 Quick Vietnam Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

Planning to visit Vietnam for the first time? These 10 quick tips will help you prepare for your trip and travel Vietnam like a pro.

Vietnam is one of my favourite places on Earth.

Having lived in Hanoi and explored most of the country, I know a thing or two about travel in Vietnam – especially the common concerns that trip travellers up.

Here are my 10 top travel tips for Vietnam.

More from Vietnam

Discover the best city guides, itineraries, travel tips & hidden gems in my Vietnam Travel Guide.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more. This post contains a compensated link.

10 quick Vietnam travel tips for first timers

1. sort out your visa.

You probably have your Vietnam wish list in mind already. A Vietnam visa application should be the next step . With your most important document sorted, you can focus on planning your itinerary and sorting out the logistics that will ensure a smooth trip.

It goes without saying, but your number one priority should be to organise your visa. Every traveller requires one, and it’s a good idea to start the process well in advance.

When I first visited Vietnam, I had to apply for a visa the old-school way by posting my passport to the nearest embassy. With the introduction of the e-Visa, it’s never been easier or faster to get your entry permit in order. I will discuss this process in detail later.

2. Purchase your travel insurance

Travel insurance is absolutely essential for Vietnam regardless of your travel style or plans. If you’re thinking about hiring a motorbike or cycling , trekking in the national parks or doing any water activities, then you definitely need a good policy that will cover you in case of an accident.

I recommend SafetyWing for longer trips – check out my detailed review to learn more about inclusions and exclusions.

3. Pick the right season to visit

Because of its geography, the climate in Vietnam varies drastically between the north and the south. Many travellers don’t realise this and mistakenly think the weather and temperature will be uniform for their entire trip.

Generally speaking, spring (March to April) and autumn (September to early December) are the most pleasant times to visit Vietnam. It’s not too cold yet in the north, and not too hot in the south or on the coast.

Remember the weather is unpredictable and can bring anything from freezing temperatures and frequent downpours to intense heat and evening storms.

In order to pick the right season, you should first have a firm idea of where you want to travel. If you only have a specific window of time when you can travel, then you might need to adjust your itinerary based on the weather.

4. Be selective with your itinerary – don’t try to fit too much in

As an advocate of slow travel I always recommend moving through a country at a steady pace – especially if it’s your first visit. You need at least three full days to do the big cities such as Hanoi and Saigon justice. Take advantage of Vietnam’s best day trips to see more of the country while using the cities as a base.

It takes time to get to know Vietnam, its culture, traditions and food – and every region is different. If you try to fit too much in and rush through, your experience might not be as fulfilling.

Another thing to keep in mind: Vietnam may look small on the map, but don’t let that deceive you. It still takes time to travel around the country, especially if you’re relying on trains and buses. Incorporating a few domestic flights is a great way to save time and see more.

5. Pre-book your airport transfer (my top Vietnam travel tip!)

Using taxis in Vietnam can be overwhelming, which is why I recommend buying a local sim card and downloading a taxi app as soon as you get to your first destination.

My biggest tip if you want to hit the ground running is to pre-book your airport transfer so that you don’t have to worry about getting to your first hotel. I am a frequent traveller to Vietnam but I still pre-organise my airport transfer every time I go – cars are very reasonably priced and it makes life so much easier.

→ Book a Hanoi airport transfer here

→ Book a Ho Chi Minh City airport transfer here

6. Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases

Vietnamese is the official language in Vietnam but English is widely spoken – especially in popular tourist areas and among the younger generations. However, if you want to have a more holistic experience and demonstrate your respect for the local culture, it’s nice to know a few basic phrases.

Even if it’s just a few words, people will appreciate that you’ve taken the time to learn some Vietnamese. It might even open doors to you that are normally closed to outsiders.

Here is a great resource for learning traveller’s Vietnamese .

7. Plan your budget carefully

Don’t make the mistake of thinking everything in Vietnam is ‘cheap’. While it’s true that Vietnam is incredibly good value for money (especially when it comes to accommodation and food), there are still some things that are worth splashing out on, for example a quality Halong Bay trip from Hanoi .

Cash is still king in Vietnam, so make sure you carry plenty of dong (the official currency) with you. Street food stalls, markets, taxis and small hotels and homestays (especially in rural areas) might only accept cash.

8. Understand the tipping etiquette

Tipping is not compulsory in Vietnam but it is very much appreciated. Tipping tour guides and drivers is best practice – I recommend 10-20% depending on how satisfied you are with the service.

Note that some restaurants and cafes will add a 10% service fee to your bill.

9. Pack the right clothes

The humidity in parts of Vietnam is intense, so you need breathable clothes that you can wash and dry overnight. Natural materials such as cotton or linen are preferable. Most locals cover up in hot weather so if you want to blend in, carry a light scarf or long-sleeved throw over that you use to protect your arms from the sun.

Warm gear is absolutely essential if you’re travelling to the north in the winter months. It’s always a good idea to have a travel raincoat and umbrella with you no matter the season.

Conservative dress is required for temples and religious sites. I recommend a scarf for women and long, lightweight pants for men.

10. Don’t forget your camera!

Vietnam is nothing if not photogenic. From Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the dreamy landscapes around Dalat , it’s one beautiful landscape after the next.

Remember to be respectful when practicing street photography and always ask for permission before taking someone’s portrait. This is especially important in rural areas.

BONUS: Use an eSIM to get online

eSIM technology makes it easier than ever to get online in Vietnam and stay connected during your travels. There are some great plans available for Vietnam and the region, with easy set up and competitive prices.

Learn more about the different Vietnam eSIM options here in my detailed guide .

How to apply for the e-Visa to travel to Vietnam

Within three working days, you can get your e-Visa in three simple steps. Remember the visa is valid for 30 days. Here’s how to apply for an e-Visa for Vietnam.

1. Confirm your eligibility

The Vietnam e-Visa is available to passport holders from 81 countries. Double-check to see if your country is included on the list – otherwise you will need to apply for a different visa.

2. Get your documents ready

You will need a JPG photo, a passport with six months’ validity, an international credit or debit card, and a temporary Vietnam address (the address of your first hotel will do, so make sure you’ve booked at least one night’s accommodation). You need to provide your entry and exit dates.

3. Start your application

Go to Vietnam’s e-Visa official website and upload the required documents. Then supply the required information about your journey. After payment, you will receive a registration code. Keep this number safe as you might need it later. If approved, you will be able to visit the website and download your e-Visa after three working days.

Have you been to Vietnam? What is your top Vietnam tip for first-time travellers?

Vietnam essentials

Here are the booking sites and services I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam .

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Vietnam using Skyscanner .

VIETNAM VISA: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Vietnam and apply for an expedited e-visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation if required.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Pre-book a private hotel transfer from Hanoi Airport or Ho Chi Minh City Airport via Get Your Guide.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Vietnam online before you go. My top choice is the Asia Link Regional eSIM by Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Vietnam on Agoda or book a Vietnam hostel .

TRAIN TICKETS: Reserve your Vietnam Rail tickets for the train to Sapa , Da Nang, Hue or Saigon via 12GoAsia.

BUS TICKETS: Buy your domestic bus or plane tickets in advance using 12GoAsia or Bookaway .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Vietnam on Cookly. Here are my top 15 Vietnam food experiences to help you decide.

DAY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Vietnam on Get Your Guide. Check out my top 10 best Vietnam day trips for more inspiration.

HALONG BAY: Consult my comprehensive Halong Bay guide to find the best cruises & tours.

VIETNAM GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Vietnam .

More Vietnam travel resources

• Off the beaten track in Northern Vietnam – hidden gems & local favourites
• Where to go in Southern Vietnam – 5 must-sees
• The best things to do in Dalat
• How to spend 3 days in Hoi An
• How to get from Danang to Hoi An – transport guide
• How to visit the abandoned dragon waterpark in Hue
• Where to buy authentic Vietnamese souvenirs in Hanoi
• The best national parks to visit in Vietnam – for trekking & more
• Waterwheels & rice fields in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
• Cycling the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Phong Nha
• Homestays in Da Bac village
• Halong Bay alternatives – where to go beyond the bay
• How to travel to Halong Bay from Hanoi – transport guide
• How to travel to Sapa from Hanoi – transport guide
• Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam – best homestays & more
• Visiting Bac Ha Market near Sapa
• Guide to Ha Giang in far-northern Vietnam
• Guide to visiting Ninh Binh
• Exploring colonial architecture in Hai Phong city
• Day trip from Hanoi to Duong Lam Ancient Village

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Hanoi – A Thousand Years of Civilization

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1.2-  Nem Chua Be (Crab Rolls)

1.3-  Cha Ca (Turmeric Fish with Dill)

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

1.5-  Banh Goi (Fried Dumplings)

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

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

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

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

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

2.1- The Black H’mong

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

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

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

2.2- The Red Dao

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.1- Phat Diem Cathedral

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

3.2- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Central Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Southern Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Top 20 Unique Places to Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam is the land of stunning beauty and unique cultural structure which adds on to its exotic beauty. Compelling and unforgettable experiences is a recurring aspect here. From gazing out at the surreal horizon to exploring some of the most astonishing cave systems and savouring on some delicious local Vietnamese food the time spent here will definitely be etched in your memories forever. Home to some of the most complex and diverse range of traditions and cultures, Vietnam also contains some of the most ancient temples and indigenous handicrafts. It is one of the most tourist-friendly international destinations which you should add to your bucket list. An exhilarating experience awaits at these 20 unique places in Vietnam:

• Entry Fee: NA
• How to Reach: 50 minutes of road journey from airport.
• Things to Do: Cycling tour of the city, boat rides, shopping in local market, temple tour of the city etc.

02. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park

• Timing: 7 am to 4 pm
• Entry Fee: 357 / – to Rs. 744/-
• How to Reach: 1 hour of drive from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Cave exploration, bird watching, wildlife photography, hiking adventure, witness the true colours of nature etc.

03. Ha Long Bay

• How to Reach: 12 hours of road journey from the airport.
• Things to Do: Kayaking, boating, hiking, rock climbing, snorkelling, take a cruise, cave exploration, cat ba island visit etc.

• How to Reach: 3 hours of road journey from airport.
• Things to Do: Temple exploration, visit the shrines, visit 19th century citadel complex, full day sightseeing tour and food etc.

05. Ho Chi Minh City

• How to Reach: 24 hour of road journey from Vietnam airport
• Things to Do: Visit Ben Thanh Market, Independence palace, war museums, explore the large maze of tunnels at Cu Chi tunnels.

06. Mekong Delta

• Timings: NA
• How to Reach: More than 24 hours from Vietnam airport
• Things to Do: Explore floating Market, go on boat rides, exploring fish farm, feeding cat fish, cruise safari etc.

07. My Son Sanctuary

• Timing: 6:30 am to 4:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 446/-
• How to Reach: 6 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Visit the ruins, explore the place, ideal destination for photography etc.

08. Cat Tien National Park

• Timing: 7:30 am to 6:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 700/-
• How to Reach: 21 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Go camping, trekking, rare bird watching, temple visit, trekking, hiking, boat ride etc.

09. Ha Giang

• How to Reach: Almost 14 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Village tours, mountaineering, backpacking, tranquil getaway, marketing in local places etc.

10. Phu Quoc Island

• How to Reach: More than 24 hours of road journey from the airport in Vietnam.
• Things to Do: Witnessing the wildlife in their natural surroundings, going hiking, following trekking trails, shopping for fresh local produce etc.

11. Con Dao National Park

• Things to Do: Spend time on the lovely beaches, explore the coral reefs, mangroves, old growth forests etc.

• How to Reach: 13 hours of road journey from airport in Vietnam.
• Things to Do: Follow the trekking trails through the lush forests, go in hiking expeditions, visit the terraced rice paddy fields, talk to the locals, visit Hoang lien national park etc.

• How to Reach: More than 17 hours of road journey from airport in Vietnam.
• Things to Do: Kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, food trails, shopping, luxury stay, watching sunrise and sunsets etc.

14. Phuoc Lam Pagoda

• Timing: 7:30 am to 9:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 44/-
• How to Reach: Around 6 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Witness the grand architectural designs, offer prayer at the shrine, maintain peace here etc.

15. Perfume River

• How to Reach: 3hours of road journey from airport in Vietnam.
• Things to Do: Sightseeing tour of the city, visit Truong Tien Bridge, art exhibition house, explore walking street, motorbike / jeep tours etc.

16. Lan Ha Bay

• How to Reach: 11 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Rock climbing, hiking, cruising, sailing, nature walks, kayaking, canoeing, sightseeing tours etc.

17. Ta Phin

• How to Reach: 18 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Nature and village walks, bike ride through the village, explore the traditional local lifestyles, landscape photography etc.

18. Da Nang

• How to Reach: Located in close proximity to the airport in Vietnam.
• Things to Do: Lang co beach, My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, Phap Lam Pagoda etc.

19. Nha Trang

• How to Reach: 9 to 10 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Oceanographic museum, Ponagar Tower, Vinpearl Land, long son pagoda etc.

• How to Reach: 12 hours of road journey from Vietnam airport.
• Things to Do: Xuan Huong Lake, lake of love and sorrow, Phu Dong Thien Vuong Street walk etc.

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What To Do In Vietnam For The First-time: 10 Best Things To Do

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Trek hill tribe villages in Sapa
• 1.2 Cruise on Ha Long Bay
• 2.1 Get lost in Hoi An Old Quarter
• 2.2 Beach break in Nha Trang
• 2.3 Sand slide at Mui Ne
• 3.1 Learn history in Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon
• 3.2 Get lost in Mekong Delta
• 3.3 Sunbath on Southern Islands’ Beaches
• 4.1 When is the best time for visiting Vietnam for the first time
• 4.2 Vietnam Visa information For First Time Visitors:
• 4.3 First Time in Vietnam Safety tips:
• 5 How to choose the Best Tours for your First Time in Vietnam

What To Do In Vietnam

North Vietnam Explore Hanoi, the capital city

>>> Included in   Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh – 4 Days 

Trek hill tribe villages in Sapa

>>> Click for   Sapa Short Stay – 4 Days

Cruise on Ha Long Bay

• Visiting stunning limestone caves like Dau Go Cave, Surprising Cave, Virgin Cave
• Watching the sunset on the world’s wonder bay from the cruise’s sundeck 
• Taichi lesson on a cruise to start a new day at the world’s wonder
• Cooking Vietnamese dishes with a famous chef
• Enjoy night deluxe Vietnamese and Western Buffet on cruise
• Visiting Cua Van fishing village to see the daily life of local people adapting to water
• Swimming, kayaking, and many other activities
• Exploring Tuan Chau island and Bai Tu Long Bay to enjoy the primitive nature beauties 

>> See our best Halong Cruise Tour:   Au Co Cruise – Halong – Lan Ha – 3 Days

Central Vietnam

Get lost in hoi an old quarter.

>> All included in :  Coastal Central Line – 7 Days

Beach break in Nha Trang

>>> See all best of Nha Trang in Nha Trang Short Stay – 4 Days

Sand slide at Mui Ne

• White dunes: at Bau Trang, more suitable for a jeep riding
• Red dunes: smaller than white dunes, about 17km from Mui Ne Beach, best for sand sliding

S outh Vietnam

Learn history in ho chi minh city/saigon.

>> All include in   Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta – Phu Quoc – 7 Days

Get lost in Mekong Delta

• Floating markets : Cai Rang market in Can Tho city, Nga Bay/Phung Hiep market in Nga Bay District, Cai Be market in Tien Giang.
• Ecological sites : Tan Phong Islet – Cai Be, Tra Su cajuput forests – An Giang, Tram Chim National Park.
• Food to try : Fish noodles, Grilled snakehead, Mushroom Hotpot, Pia cake

Sunbath on Southern Islands’ Beaches

• Phu Quoc is the most developed island in the southern sea of Vietnam with a range of modern constructions like Vinpearl Park, Safari Zoo, Hon Thom Cable Car, and Phu Quoc Casino.
• For natural beauties, Phu Quoc has Sao Beach, Khem Beach, Ganh Dau Cape, Phu Quoc National Park, and a number of surrounding islands for diving and snorkeling activities.
• Phu Quoc is also known for its delicious seafood. You should check out Phu Quoc Prison – the most brutal prison run by the French and Americans.

Practical Tips & Information For First Time In Vietnam

When is the best time for visiting vietnam for the first time.

• North and North Central: With the influence of the  monsoon season , these two areas have four seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.
• Central of Vietnam: Tropical Monsoon is known as a tropical wet climate or a tropical monsoon and trade-wind littoral climate.
• South of Vietnam: Hot and humid for the whole year with only two seasons: Dry and Rainy seasons
• All three regions can be affected by typhoons, floods, and storms. North and Central Vietnam see the most number of storms hit on land annually. 

Vietnam Visa information For First Time Visitors:

First time in vietnam safety tips:.

• Avoid travel to mountainous regions during the rainy season.
• When crossing the roads in Vietnam, just keep going slowly and the traffic will naturally avoid you. Don’t make sudden movements.
• Motorbiking driving can be an exciting experience but can be dangerous in mountainous areas. The tip is to drive slow and obey the traffic rules.
• Petty crimes happen mostly in major cities and tourist destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang… Take good care of your belongings and put the bags in front of you when in crowded places. Check your surroundings before holding up your cameras.
• To avoid infectious diseases like dengue fever, prepare yourself with long-sleeved shirts, and pants, and protect yourself with a 10 to 30 percent concentration of DEET.
• Riding motorbikes to mountainous areas with no experience : riding motorbikes in Vietnam is a fun experience and worth trying at least once. Even if you’re inexperienced, you can learn to drive a scooter around the cities pretty quickly. However, riding on the national highway and on mountainous roads is a totally different story which is not for novices. So we recommended you to ride behind the back of someone who is experienced with great knowledge of the roads’ condition and routes.

• Not asking prices before buying : for those who are looking for a gift to bring back home, you might be the target of the sellers on your first time in Vietnam . If you don’t know what price you should pay for an item, seek advice from a local or your tour guide. One thing you should do every time you want to buy anything or use any service in Vietnam is to ask the price. 
• Visit too many places in a short period of time : It’s not wise to visit too many places in Vietnam in a short period of time on your first time travel to Vietnam. We recommend you to travel to Vietnam in-depth and to discover not only Vietnam’s nature but also the culture and people.

How to choose the Best Tours for your First Time in Vietnam

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• Things to do in Vietnam
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• Things to do in Ninh Binh
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• Heritage Sites of Vietnam

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

Day 2: Hanoi

Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh

Day 4: Ninh Binh – Thanh Hoa – Ninh Binh

Day 5: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay                                                       

Day 6: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Danang - Hoi An                                   

Day 7: Hoi An - My Son – Hoi An                                

Day 8: Hoi An - Hue

Day 10: Hue – Dong Hoi 

Day 11: Dong Hoi - Phong Nha visit

Day 12: Dong Hoi – Ho Chi Minh City

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City 

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City Departure  

Hanoi Arrival       

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel in town

The rest of day is at your leisure

Overnight in Hanoi.

Depart the hotel to visit the Temple of Literature, or Quoc Tu Giam. Built in 1076, The Temple of Literature was Vietnam's first university and was established within a temple to educate Vietnam's royalty, mandarins and members of the elite. The grounds of the university, which functioned for 700 years, have been well-preserved

The next stop is a visit to Hanoi’s UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Thang Long Imperial Citadel . The Citadel was constructed on a Chinese fortress dating back from the 7th century and re-built in the 11th century by the Ly Viet Dynasty

We also visit The One Pillar Pagoda, which was founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049. This structure is one of Vietnam’s smallest but most iconic temples. Close by is the mausoleum of the historic father figure of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, and the former presidents house on stilts where he lived from 1958 to 1969

From there head into Hanoi’s Old Quarter, also known as the ‘36 streets’ area. Take a walking tour through charming Hang Be Market and around Hoan Kiem Lake. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers and is a must see in person

In the evening, catch a Water Puppet show, a uniquely North Vietnamese art form depicting scenes from rural life and episodes of national history 

Overnight in Hanoi

Hanoi – Ninh Binh         

Depart in the morning for a Ninh Binh, the site of Vietnam’s first capital, Hoa Lu. Visit the temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-80), and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980-1009)

After visiting Hoa Lu climb the surrounding limestone karst hills for a spectacular view of the valley

After lunch, visit Trang An Landscape Complex which was listed on UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2014. Trang An is a spectacular landscape of limestone karst peaks permeated with valleys. The enormous limestone karsts jutting out from the green rice fields lend its name, ‘Halong on Land’

Should you feel adventurous, climb up to Bich Dong Pagoda on nearby Ngu Nhac Mountain, dating back to 1428 and comprising three structures: Ha, Trung, and Thuong Pagodas

Overnight in Binh Dinh

DAY 4 | 80 km

Ninh Binh – Thanh Hoa – Ninh Binh   

Start the day with a visit to the remote Ho Citadel , which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011, situated in nearby Thanh Hoa Province. Ho Citadel remains consist of the Inner Citadel, La Thanh Outer Wall and the Nam Giao Altar, which are designed for a centralized imperial city in order to show a concept of royal power. The use of large stone walls with traditional feng shui principles are the main characters that represent the almost intact Ho Citadel.

Transfer back to Ninh Binh in the afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure

Consider a walk or bicycle ride through the rice paddy fields that surround your hotel to soak up the beauty of the country side, or if time permits make an optional trip to Cuc Phuong National Park – Vietnam’s first national park established in 1962

Overnight in Ninh Binh

DAY 5 | 200 km

Ninh Binh – Halong Bay         

Depart Ninh Binh in the morning for Halong Bay , perhaps Vietnam’s most famous and most popular UNESCO World Heritage site . The name ‘Ha Long’ means the dragon descending into the sea and owes its origins to a Vietnamese myth.

Arrive at the Halong Bay jetty around noon and proceed with check-in formalities before boarding a boat for your unforgettable overnight cruise on Halong bay. After your welcome onboard, a lunch will be served while cruising towards the bay itself

In the afternoon, enjoy some visits and/or activities (depending on each boat’s itinerary) or just spend some time relaxing on board. Towards the end of the day the boat sets anchor for the night among the karst formations. Dinner is served on board

Overnight on board the boat in Halong Bay

Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hoi An             

Experience the sunrise over the emerald waters of Halong Bay

Mid-morning the boat will return to shore

Disembark and transfer to Hanoi Airport for the mid-late afternoon flight to Danang in Central Vietnam

On arrival in Danang, transfer to the nearby historic Hoi An town. Hoi An was a major Asian trading port from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The ‘ Hoi An Ancient Town ’ was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. While the architecture has been regulated to remain intact, the town has come alive with modern cafes, shops and entertainment making it a favourite destination for international visitors

Overnight in Hoi An

Hoi An - My Son – Hoi An   

Head out in the morning to another of Central Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage sites – the temple complex at My Son Sanctuary

My Son was the homeland of the grand Champa Kingdom who built dozens of red brick towers during the 7th – 13th centuries. The sanctuary is situated in an impressive location surrounded by hills, around 35 km inland from the coast at Hoi An. Whilst not as spectacular as the great Angkor complexes in Cambodia, the remaining structures are atmospheric enough to conjure images of the majesty of the Champa Kingdom

Return to Hoi An just in time for a sunset walking tour and explore the ancient trading ports unique characteristic: wooden-fronted houses that once belonged to the town’s prosperous merchants, the Japanese-covered Bridge and the wonderful market as well as the silk, handicrafts, antique shops and galleries that take you back in time

Enjoy the evening at leisure exploring some of the local cafes and restaurants

DAY 8 | 150 km

Hoi An - Hue 

Start the day with a Vietnamese cooking class, one that takes you through the entire process of sourcing ingredients in the local market through to preparing your own lunch. A hands-on experience is the best way to become more familiar with the art of Vietnamese cuisine

All efforts are rewarded with the lunch that you have made for yourself!

After the cooking class, you will depart from Hoi An for a 3-hour drive through Hai Van Pass to Hue, the former citadel of the very last Nguyen Dynasty

Overnight in Hue

This morning after breakfast, depart from your hotel in Hue for a city tour to explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed ‘ Complex of Hue Monuments’

The structures of The Complex of Hue Monuments are carefully placed within the natural setting of the site and aligned cosmologically with the Five Cardinal Points (centre, west, east, north, south), the Five Elements (earth, metal, wood, water, fire), and the Five Colours (yellow, white, blue, black, red). The Imperial Citadel is where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945, this ancient citadel reflects the pomp and ceremony of the dynastic rulers as well as the scars of many years of turmoil, both ancient and modern

From the citadel, take a cyclo through dai noi ‘Old City’ to Tinh Tam Lake where the Emperors used to come to relax. If you come during the summer, the water will be full of lotus flowers, while nearly year round the local style coffee shops are full of young Vietnamese congregating

Continue to visit Thien Mu (Celestial Lady) Pagoda overlooking the Perfume River; constructed in 1601, the 21-meter tall tower is the centerpiece of the pagoda and represents seven reincarnations of Buddha

After a lunch to experience authentic Hue style cuisine, head out to visit Khai Dinh’s Tomb which is Vietnamese in design with European influences, making it unique from the other tombs in Hue. On the way back to Hue, visit Ho Quyen (tiger arena). Built in 1830 during the reign of Minh Mang emperor, the arena was the stage of yearly battles between an elephant and a tiger. The arena is a rarity of Asian architecture and is still intact

IN the afternoon, head to the Dong Ba market, a must see in Hue, where the stalls are teeming with color and a great place to catch a glimpse of everyday life

Hue – Dong Hoi 

Transfer to Dong Hoi in the morning via Highway 1 across the Hien Luong Bridge and over the Ben Hai River, which demarcated North and South Vietnam

This area saw some of the heaviest fighting during the war. Doc Mieu Firebase, which lies just north of here, played a pivotal role and was the command post for calling in airstrikes along the Ho Chi Minh Trail

The journey from here to Vinh Moc Tunnels is scenic after you leave the main highway, pass through quaint villages and skirt along Cua Tung Beach. The village of Vinh Moc found itself tragically positioned in one of the most heavily bombed areas of Vietnam.  In order to escape this bombardment, the villagers constructed approximately 2.8 km of underground tunnels

From Vinh Moc drive to Truong Son National Cemetery where the remains of some 15,000 Vietnamese soldiers and civilians have been laid to rest

Overnight in Dong Hoi

Phong Nha     

In the morning head out to the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park , which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. The National Park contains and protects over 104 km of caves and underground rivers making it one of the most outstanding limestone karst ecosystems in the world. The karst landscape is not only complex but also ancient (more than 400 million years ago), with high geo-diversity and geomorphic features of considerable significance in the world

On arrival in Phong Nha area visit the Paradise Cave, which was opened to the public in 2010. Here you have a chance to see one of the larger and most impressive accessible caves in the area

Take a leisurely boat trip down the Son River to the mouth of the Phong Nha cave, passing by the entrance to the 'Cave of Teeth and Wind’. The area has numerous grottoes and caves and so far only a total of 20 caves with a total length of 70km have been surveyed

Dong Hoi – Ho Chi Minh City       

In the morning transfer to Dong Hoi Airport and on to Ho Chi Minh City

In the afternoon, take a tour of some of the main sites, including the Reunification Palace, the Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street, the Continental Hotel, Opera House and City Hall

Visit the War Remnants Museum where exhibition halls display imagery of both the French and ‘American’ wars

Continue to the Jade Emperor Pagoda located on the fringes of district 1. Dating from 1909 and built by Cantonese Buddhists, this quiet oasis was designed using feng shui principals showcasing ornate statues and effigies.

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure and experience some of Saigon’s nightlife

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City                                                                                                                          

Start the day with an early morning market visit to sample Saigon’s best offering: it’s delicious street food. Walk around the vibrant and colorful wet market early in the morning to experience the local life and taste some of the Vietnamese people’s favorite local delicacies

Take the afternoon at your leisure and explore other parts of the city

In the evening, board a river cruise for a 3-hour dinner. Seeing the city from the water is a unique experience

Ho Chi Minh City Departure         

Enjoy the morning at leisure before heading out on your next adventure

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Vietnam’s 10 best natural wonders 

Nov 6, 2023 • 5 min read

Vietnam offers a dizzying platter of breathtaking natural wonders © Jun Photo / Shutterstock

Breathtaking landscapes appear at every turn in Vietnam . From the window of a trundling train you'll witness an endless patchwork of impossible-green rice paddies, while in Halong Bay a horizon studded with incisor-like limestone islands makes an ethereal sight. From Mui Ne in the deep south, where you can wonder at a Sahara-esque scene of wind-sculpted sand dunes from the basket of a hot-air balloon, to the stupendous karst mountains of the far north, Vietnam offers up a bewitching array of superlative landscapes.

Halong Bay’s stunning combination of karst limestone peaks and sheltered, shimmering seas is one of Vietnam’s top tourist draws, but with more than 2000 different islands, there’s plenty of superb scenery to go around. Definitely book an overnight cruise and make time for your own special moments on this World Heritage wonder – rise early for an ethereal misty dawn, or pilot a kayak into grottoes and lagoons. If you’re hankering for more karst action, move on to the less touristy but equally spectacular Lan Ha Bay . Most tourists do a one-night cruise, but if you can, consider taking a 2- or even 3-night cruise which allows for getting off typical itinerary with time for kayaking, hiking and swimming.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park 

With jagged hills shrouded in rainforest, and mountain rivers coursing through impressive ravines, above ground the Phong Nha-Ke Bang region is one of Vietnam's most spectacular national parks. Head underground for even more proof that this area should be part of any Vietnamese itinerary. A fortunate selection of travelers can experience the cathedral-like chambers of Hang Son Doong, the world's largest cave, but more accessible are the ziplining and kayaking thrills of Hang Toi (Dark Cave), and the other-worldly beauty of aptly named Paradise Cave.

Hang Son Doong 

Hang Son Doong (Mountain River Cave) is known as the world's largest cave, and is one of the most spectacular sights in Southeast Asia, with access only approved by the government in 2013. 

This enormous cave was discovered quite recently. Ho Khanh, a hunter from a jungle settlement close to the Vietnam–Laos border, would often take shelter in the caves that honeycomb his mountain homeland. He stumbled across gargantuan Hang Son Doong in the early 1990s, but the sheer scale and majesty of the principal cavern (more than 5km [3.1mi] long, 200m high [656ft] and, in some places, 150m [492ft] wide) was only confirmed as the world’s biggest cave when British explorers returned with him in 2009.

How to explore the world's largest cave, Hang San Doong 

Phu Quoc Island 

Lapped by azure waters and edged with the kind of white-sand beaches that make sun-seekers sink to their weak knees, Phu Quoc – way down in the south of Vietnam – is ideal for a no-hassle beach break, reaching for a seaside cocktail and toasting a blood-orange sun as it dips into the sea. In addition to beautiful beaches, over 70% of the island is a leafy national park . So if you want to take it up a notch, grab a bike and hit the red-dirt roads: the island is relatively compact, around the size of Singapore.

Tonkinese Alps 

The spectacular Tonkinese Alps soar skywards along the rugged, uncompromising edges of the country and include Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest peak. From sinuous and spidery ridges, rice terraces cascade down into river valleys home to ethnic minority villages of Hmong, Red Dzao and Giay peoples.

Ban Gioc Waterfall 

Ban Gioc is one of Vietnam’s best-known waterfalls, and its image adorns the lobby of many a cheap guesthouse. The falls, fed by the Quay Son River that marks the border with China, are an impressive sight in a highly scenic location. Aim to visit around lunchtime when the upstream dam is opened to allow full flow.

Boat owners here will punt you on bamboo rafts (for a small fee) close enough to the waterfall so you can feel the spray on your face. Rafts on the Vietnamese side have blue canopies; on the Chinese side canopies are green.

With picture-perfect white sand, the delightful curve of beautiful Sao Beach bends out alongside a sea of mineral-water clarity just a few miles from An Thoi , the main shipping port at the southern tip of the island. There are a couple of beachfront restaurants where you can settle into a deckchair, change into bathers or partake in water sports.

Ba Be National Park  

Detour off the regular Vietnam tourist trail in Ba Be National Park , an essential destination for adventurous travelers, with towering limestone mountains, plunging valleys and evergreen forests. Waterfalls, caves and lakes combine in a landscape that sustains over 550 different plants and hundreds of different bird and animal species. Explore Ba Be’s natural spectacle by boat or on trekking and mountain-biking excursions, before relaxing and recharging in the rustic homestays and village guesthouses of the local Tay ethnic minority.

Thuy Son is the largest and most famous of the five Marble Mountains , with a number of natural caves in which first Hindu and later Buddhist sanctuaries have been built over the centuries. Of the two paths heading up the mountain, the one closer to the beach (at the end of the village) makes for a better circuit. At the top of the staircase is a gate, Ong Chon, which is pockmarked with bullet holes, leading to Linh Ong Pagoda.

Mui Ne Sand Dunes 

Mui Ne is famous for its enormous red and white sand dunes. The smaller “red dunes” (doi hong) are conveniently located north of the main strip, but the “white dunes” (doi cat trang), 24km (14.9mi) northeast, are the more impressive – the near-constant oceanic winds sculpt the pale-yellow sands into wonderful Saharaesque formations. But as this is Vietnam (not deepest Mali) there's little chance of experiencing the silence of the desert.

Prepare yourself for the hard sell as children press you to hire a plastic sledge to ride the dunes. Unless you're very light, it can be tricky to travel for more than a few feet this way.

This article was first published Oct 22, 2020 and updated Nov 6, 2023.

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• The 10 Best Ecotourism Experiences...

The Best Ecotourism Experiences in Vietnam

Ecotourism is growing in Vietnam as visitors become more mindful of minimising their impact on the beautiful lands through which they travel. Looking for a good-to-the-planet adventure? Here are the best ecotourism experiences in the country.

Looking to see the best of Vietnam? Join our 12-day, small-group adventure led by our Local Insider. You’ll embark on a junk ship-style cruise, sample delicious street food and learn qiqong in a Zen house – plus much, much more.

1. Boating along the Ngô Đồng River in Ninh Bình

Historical Landmark

Travellers visiting Tam Cốc-Bích Động will be stunned by the Hang Cả, Hang Hai and Hang Ba caves on the Ngô Đồng River in the northern Ninh Bình province. Bích Động refers to a beautiful pagoda complex built in the 15th century. This area is a Unesco World Heritage site and will take your breath away with its limestone mountains, lazy rivers, serene rice fields and bright blue skies. The gorgeous natural beauty makes this area a top ecodestination in Vietnam.

2. Trekking through Cát Tiên National Park

Natural Feature, Park

This national park is approximately 150km (93mi) from Ho Chi Minh City making it an easy weekend getaway from the big city. Here you will see lots of wildlife – including poisonous snakes, so watch those trails – and enormous ancient trees. The humid air is perfumed with the scent of more than 100 orchid species growing in the forest. This park was named Vietnam’s sixth World Biosphere Reserve and tour guides aim to increase environmental awareness with every guided trek. From Ho Chi Minh City, take a tour that includes transportation , meals, treks and accommodation at a basic guesthouse.

3. Boating on Ba Bể Lake

Natural Feature

This beautiful lake is the largest in Vietnam. Nestled among mountains, Ba Bể Lake sits northeast of Hanoi. In the early morning, boat tours can take you onto the smooth waters to watch the rising mist – or you could gaze at a romantic sunset in the evening. Departing from Hanoi, you can book an overnight trip with Culture Trip which includes transportation, meals, boating and a local homestay.

4. Visiting Cúc Phương National Park

Another glorious destination in northern Vietnam, Cúc Phương National Park lies 120km (74mi) southwest of Hanoi. Here you will see 1,000-year-old trees, lush forests, ancient caves and small lakes – it’s a wonder to behold. Escape to this protected, pristine park by booking a one-day or multi-day jungle trek from Hanoi through the official park website.

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5. Biking through Mai Châu Town

This enchanting town is perfect for anyone seeking an authentic local experience in Vietnam, and you can visit with Culture Trip on our exclusive 12-day Vietnam adventure, led by our Local Insider . Similar to personalised homestays in Sa Pa, the people in Mai Châu offer lovely homestays and the opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine. Traditional music shows are also put on in the evenings by the locals.

6. Trekking through Ha Giang

7. Biking and trekking tours in Sa Pa

If Phan Xi Păng is a little daunting, you can easily spend several days touring Sa Pa, widely known as one of the most beautiful locations in Vietnam. The town is largely made up of ethnic minorities such as the H’Mong, Tay and Dao people. You can book an epic three-night tour to Sa Pa with Culture Trip, which offers authentic homestays and a return transfer from Hanoi.

8. Hiking up Phan Xi Păng

Phan Xi Păng – often anglicized as Fansipan – is also known as the Roof of Indochina for being the tallest mountain in the region at 3,143m (10,311ft). This trek is not for the faint-hearted as it’s a challenging ascent, but the summit views are brilliant. Throughout the climb, you’ll encounter fields of gorgeous flowers, lush rainforests and bamboo bushes. Treks normally take three days leaving from Hanoi, and many include a stopover in Sa Pa. If climbing isn’t for you, ride the cable car – but beware of the mass of fellow riders at the summit. Departing from Hanoi, this two-day trek takes you up the mountain through the jungle and is led by local H’Mong guides.

9. Biking tours in the Mekong Delta

These multi-day tours begin in the southern city of Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis with a population of nearly 9m people. Watching the city fade in the distance as you cycle into glorious natural surroundings is an amazing sight in itself. Whether you choose to visit for one day or several – you’ll cycle through fields of sugar cane, banana plantations, narrow country lanes and across water channels. This is the perfect getaway from the big city for anyone with a love for bikes. This day tour available to book with Culture Trip takes you through the Ben Tre province, which is also the site where the American War (Vietnam War) began.

10. Eco-Adventures in Cao Bằng

Cao Bằng is a remote area in the north of Vietnam offering more spectacular views of surrounding mountains, waterfalls, rice terraces and rivers. Cao Bang Geopark was recognised by Unesco for its historic significance and geological heritage. Fresh air, local culture and remarkable scenery await the eco-minded traveller. Many multi-day tours departing from Hanoi will take you into Cao Bang and other mountain towns such as Dong Van and Tam Son – plus an abundance of scenic waterfalls, hidden caves and pristine lakes.

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Ecotourism in vietnam: what to know and where to go.

Traveling is not about having fun only, but also about conserving and enhancing bio-cultural diversity. The ongoing trend of ecotourism in Vietnam helps protect the natural and cultural heritage, as well as enrich your environmental awareness.

Pros of Ecotourism of Vietnam

Local economic improvement.

Since tourism can generate more jobs, it provides sustainable revenue for the locals. Whether you choose a tour to the Mekong Delta forests or trekking through paddy fields in Ninh Binh, your journey gives the local workers – especially those in the rural areas – a chance to earn a higher income through providing hospitality services and infrastructure.

Preserve Community Cultures

Traditional practices and cultural values are preserved in order to attract tourists. Locally grown and processed food, crafted souvenirs, ancient art performances, historical artifacts, and more are conserved and turned into “travel specialties.”

Traveling off-the-beaten-path offers unique sneak-peaks into the local cultures

Enhance Environmental Awareness

When the local authorities realize the potential of ecotourism in Vietnam, they’re more likely to educate the locals about the environment and invest in ecotourism activities. Simultaneously, more environmental projects are initiated to educate the tourists to help them foster a better mindset regarding environmental protection. Moreover, tourists are also inspired to do more for the environment.

Financial Resources towards Conservation

The money you spend on ecotourism in Vietnam will go back on conservation efforts such as saving endangered species or reforestation. With genuine ecotourism projects, up to 90% of the profit will finance conservation. Nevertheless, you need to check carefully whether the ecotourism project cooperates with local authorities or not to make sure your money is re-invested in the ecotourism and biodiversity system.

More Affordable Experiences

Instead of going for luxurious hotels, opting for local homestays in Vietnam will save you a good amount of budget for more activities and exploration. Most ecotourism destinations in Vietnam offer incredibly affordable services as they make smart use of natural resources.

Cons of Ecotourism in Vietnam

Travel impacts on the environment.

While making your way to these exotic places, you’ll have to travel a longer distance. Traveling by plane or car generates more carbon emissions on the environment. Although ecotourism is considered the most sustainable form of tourism, zero waste traveling is still a big challenge for almost every visitor.

Less System of Support

When you travel to more remote places, there will be less medical support nearby. You’ll need to pack along first-aid items, medicines, and other necessary items to survive in sparsely populated areas.

Ecosystem Degradation

If too many people explore an ecotourism destination, they might disturb the biodiversity system there. Highly visited ecotourism sites may lead to the fragmentation of natural habitats. Many facilities, such as hotels or restaurants, will be constructed to fulfill ecotourism demands.

Read more on Responsible Travel in Vietnam .

How to Experience Ecotourism in Vietnam

You can volunteer to clean up the beaches or help protect wildlife at national parks and animal shelters. There are so many positive impacts you could have on ecotourism in particular and on the environment in general.

Opting for Green Lodging Services

You can choose hotels that have environmentally-friendly policies such as providing eco-friendly toiletries or local homestays so that you can enjoy authentic traveling experiences as well as minimize the negative impacts on the environment.

Bring Eco-friendly Items along

You can bring along reusable water containers, eco-friendly packages. Additionally, avoid plastic bags and unnecessary packages while shopping in Vietnam to cut down on wastes. See more on Zero-Waste Travel in Vietnam .

Choose Credible Ecotourism Projects

Do your research carefully on the ecotourism projects to make sure they meet your expectations. The ecotourism in Vietnam projects needs to follow these criteria: safeguard the biodiversity, support the well-being of local communities, nurture cultural experiences, boost the local economy,…

Where to Experience Ecotourism in Vietnam

Trang an landscape complex (ninh binh).

Picturesque scenery of Trang An Landscape Complex

Experience awe-inspiring landscape made up of mountains, limestone caves, ancient pagodas, and grottoes. Lay back on the row cruise through breathtaking sceneries and behold the biggest complex of Buddhism in Vietnam. Additionally, trek or bike through the lush paddy fields to get immersed in the peaceful countryside. See our guide for your First Time in Ninh Binh .

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Tam Dao National Park

Tranquil corner amidst of vast Tam Dao wild forests

Discover eight different kinds of forests with diverse topography, climate, and 840 species of animals. Tam Dao National Park is said to represent the mystical beauty of the wild forests in Northern Vietnam. You can have an excursion to the Silver Falls and Rung Rinh peak, which is phenomenal to experience ecotourism in Vietnam.

Cat Tien National Park

Cat Tien National Park has a lot of ecotourism activities to offer

Just about 155 kilometers away from Ho Chi Minh City, Cat Tien National Park is one of the six prominent biosphere reserves recognized by UNESCO in Vietnam. There are a lot of ecotourism experiences such as trekking or biking through the park headquarters, visiting animal rescued stations, watching gibbons, having kayaking excursions, enjoying night safaris, embarking on a bird-watching tour.

Ba Be National Park

Breathtaking view at Be Be Lake

Ba Be National Park encompasses clear waterfalls, rivers, valleys, lakes, and stalactite and stalagmite caves all set amidst picturesque landscapes. You can take part in the trekking activities with a tour guide or spend a night at Bo Lu Village to gain a good grasp of ethnic minorities’ daily life. There are other charming neighboring attractions such as Dau Dang Fall, Puong Cave, and Tien Pond.

Mai Chau Town

Plum gardens – Mai Chau Specialties

A rural village with towering cliffs and mountainous backdrop perfectly represent ecotourism in Vietnam. At this northern village, you will have the chance to experience traditions and cultures up close while staying at the Vietnam ethnic minority  local homestays. There are multiple ethnic minority communities, immense karst caves, vibrant local markets, unique culinary experiences that will fulfill your ecotourism in Vietnam. See our guide for your First Time in Mai Chau .

Stupendous landscape with lush rice terraces at Ha Giang

Fond of getting off the beaten path and experiencing ecotourism in Vietnam in the most appealing way? With up to 90% of the ethnic minorities population, Ha Giang remains a pristine area and less affected by mass tourism. Ha Giang can broaden your horizons with fascinating mountainous scenery, golden rice terraces, colorful ethnic markets, hearty towns, lush valleys. Experience ecotourism in Vietnam with Ha Giang’s lovely ecohouses and homestays. If you want to traverse to the more remote places in Ha Giang, you’ll need to buy a permit costs $10. However, all of the tourists claim that it’s worthy.

The Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta owns an amazing biodiversity system with diverse flora and fauna and a complex river system. You can explore the Mekong Delta wild forests or bike along with enchanting paddy fields. The green paddy fields and fishing villages, traversing laid-back streams, and rivers, discovering wild forests bring a unique culinary experience with natural and locally grown ingredients.

Discover Mekong Delta on a sampan with the local

Conclusion of Ecotourism in Vietnam

Ecotourism in Vietnam has a lot to offer from picturesque landscapes, unique topography to diverse cultures. If you’re keen on ecotourism in Vietnam, why not opt for our customized Mekong Delta tour with a professional local guide and carefully planned traveling schedule? We guarantee an authentic traveling experience in harmony with ecotourism in Vietnam.

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A trip to nguyen van binh book street, all you need to know about thien mu pagoda in hue, what to do in moc chau travel guide, ben thanh market in ho chi minh city, first time in vung tau, folk religion in vietnam – vietnamese gods.

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Top 10 Ecotourism Area In Vietnam

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that contributes significantly to the development of the ” industry without smoke” in Vietnam. The good news is that in recent years, people have become more aware of protecting nature and more in love with nature. So they often go to nature-related tours . This is the opportunity for ecological tourism in Vietnam to recover and develop. Among the best ecotourism destinations in Vietnam, the following 10 ecotourism destinations are highly recommended by tourists:

Eco-tourism area – Cat Tien National Park (Dong Nai)

Cat Tien is the name of a land located in the meandering section of Dong Nai River. It’s in the area of three provinces of Dong Nai, Binh Phuoc and Lam Dong. This is a primeval forest representing the tropical lowland forest ecosystem. Cat Tien National Park is also an ideal stop for those who like to explore nature. Particularly, visitors will have the opportunity to admire one of the six UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in Vietnam.

Cat Tien National Park, 150 km north of Ho Chi Minh City. There are many ancient trees. Such as lobster, red wood; more than 400 kinds of medicinal plants, more than 100 species of orchids … There are hundreds of species of birds, rare species of birds. Such as red feather, green hornbills, elephant rhinoceros, elephants … Those who love the forest ecological tourism, can find the Cat Tien National Park to experience and explore.

At present, in order to promote ecotourism to Cat Tien National Park, various agencies, organizations have set up some projects on ecotourism. Such as Ong Keo ecotourism resort, ecotourism Son Tien, Ba Hao junction. With these projects, visitors will come to Cat Tien National Park more and more.

Tuan Chau – Ha Long Ecotourism Resort (Quang Ninh)

It about 14km from the Bai Chay Tourist Port in the southwest, Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province. Tuan Chau Island is located in the natural heritage of Ha Long Bay. The resort is located in the gentle hills on the island. Come to Tuan Chau. You will enjoy the cool wind from the sea and bath in one of the most beautiful beach in Vietnam. The coastline is nearly 6km long with the famous Tra Co white sand. Tuan Chau beach is located in Tuan Chau island tourism area, artificial beach with sand mattress 2km long.

There are amusement parks, sports and many other tourist activities. Coming to Tuan Chau, tourists can swim, go sightseeing, participate in outdoor activities in the pine forest tourism or see dolphin performance, lion sea, visit the water music park. Tuan Chau is now the most modern tourist – service center in Ha Long City.

Ham Rong Mountain Resort (Sa Pa – Lao Cai)

Referring to the beauty in Sapa. You can not fail to mention Sapa especially Ham Rong area. Ham Rong Mountain is 1800m above sea level. This is a mountain with dragon head (imagination), close to the center of Sapa town. It’s one of the most attractive eco-tourism in Vietnam. When reaching the top of Ham Rong Mountain, the whole view of Sapa will be captured in the eyes.

Come here you will feel as if they are in the “paradise”. Because of the natural beauty of Muong Hoa valley, Sa Pa, Ta Phin hidden in the smoke. Ham Rong Mountain is a wonderful sight of Sapa, Lao Cai. From the center of Sapa town, visitors can walk here, just watching the legendary Ham Rong legend.

Ham Rong eco-tourism area consists of three main areas: Ham Rong flower garden, “stone garden” and Shilin Ham Rong. Before climbing Ham Rong, visitors will have the opportunity to visit the Ham Rong flower garden. The flower garden is based on the natural terrain of the mountain.

Travel to Ham Rong mountain, visitors will have to go through hundreds of stone steps and every one of such paragraphs there is no other scene, beautiful with all the colors. The flowers here are seasonal, with the corresponding flowers. So, although visitors come here many times. But surely the emotions will be different. In addition, visitors may be more surprised when visiting the Shilin Rock Garden or cross a trip longer than a kilometer to reach the Ham Rong.

Thoi Son Ecotourism Area (Tien Giang)

To the West, tourists will certainly be heard about Thoi Son ( Thoi Son island) ecological tourism. Thoi Son Island is located in Tien Giang, opposite My Tho City. It’s an attractive tourist destination for those who love the West River. Thoi Son island emerged as a small island between the poetic Tien River. At this point, visitors are completely free from the noise, dust of the city. Visitors will live in the peaceful countryside setting, walk along the streets of the neighborhood, go to the fruit garden to enjoy fresh fruit, even on the hammocks sleeps in the South.

The moonlight is cool wind, anything by listening to an old song. The art of singing the South amateur is a type of art entertainment in the Southern. Visitors do not need to find tapes, discs or movies, right in front of the visitors will have the “garden artist” performances with sweet voice rephrased the fruit of the West River. Thoi Son is suitable for tourists who love the West River, find a quiet place for vacation and relaxation. This is also the ideal destination for those who love the ecological tourism garden.

Trang An ecological tourism area (Ninh Binh)

Trang An Ecotourism is located in the eastern part of Ninh Binh Province. It consists of two main sections: Trang An Eco-tourism Area and Bai Dinh Pagoda Spiritual Cultural Zone. Especially (Hoa Lu ancient quarter), central area, cave area, tourist service area, spiritual worship mountain Bai Dinh Pagoda. Trang An Ecological Tourist Site has many caves in limestone mountains, valleys and underground river systems that create a grandiose, fanciful space.

This is one of the items included in the project to preserve and promote the historical value of the ancient ruins of Hoa Lu. Trang An Ecological Tourist Area also covers a primeval forest with rich ecological system, including rare species of animals such as phoenix, flute, python, python…

Tourists to Trang An will not be surprised by the beauty of nature here. The river connecting the fanciful, the temple, covered with sediment containing old nostalgic vestige. It has made the “soul” of the land where the sacred is more sacred. Caves, valleys, Rocky Mountains here have been uniquely tented with names. Such as Big Seo, Si cave, Ao Trai cave, Sung cave, Wine cave, Linh cave, Ba Giot cave, Morning cave, Dark cave, Thung Lang, Thung May, Thung Tran, Khong valley, King mountain, Lord mountain, Ong Trang mountain …

At the foot of Bai Dinh mountain, Bai Dinh ancient and Bai Danh new also make for tourists near and far Here comes the unexpected. Because of the unique architecture seems to have no place to be. The space in the cave complex of Trang An is so quiet that one can hear the sound of the duck flapping its wings.

Gao Giong Eco-tourism Area (Dong Thap)

Gao Giong Ecotourism was established and welcomes visitors in July 2003. This area is known as “lung” of Dong Thap Muoi. The park is blessed with airy space, fresh air, rich flora and fauna. Visitors to visit Gao Giong eco-tourism will feel like returning to a peaceful countryside, calm but full of vitality. Gao Giong Ecotourism is also considered by many visitors as a “miniature Dong Thap Muoi”. All here are kept simple, rustic and natural as it is. From the scene, the people to the dishes of Southwest.

Visitors to the southwestern region can not ignore Gao Giong ecological. There is a large bird sanctuary with hundreds of species living and sheltering. There are including precious and rare species in the Red Book such as fire heron, dalmatian … In addition, with typical western water features This system of canals creates the conditions for the species to multiply. Such as snakehead fish, perch, fish, snakehead, eel, snake, turtle, python, hamster etc.

Gao Giong eco-tourism, visitors will feel comfortable and “cool eyes” with the vast blue of the typical species of wetland. Like cajuput, goby, crazy, reed, rice, etc. Gao Giong Eco-tourism is an ideal destination for those who love ecotourism in the South West.

Can Gio Eco-tourism Area (Ho Chi Minh City)

It is the only marine district in Ho Chi Minh City, with half of it being mangroves. Can Gio Eco-tourism is considered as the “green lung” of the city for climate regulation and protection. At the same time, this place has great potential for eco-tourism . The mangrove fauna of Can Gio is considered by scientists to be of high biodiversity conservation value, with over 200 species of animals, including 11 reptiles listed in the Red Book of Vietnam.

Aquatic species includes 125 species of algae, 55 species of zooplankton, 55 species of benthic, 18 species of shrimp, 69 species of fish. There are 24 terrestrial amphibians, 10 mammal species and 22 species of birds (especially water birds and migratory birds). The flora is also abundant and diversified, prices, Avicennia, lime …

In addition, to the rich forest resources and flora and fauna of the mangroves, Can Gio Ecological Tourism was also recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2000. It also has historical and cultural resources. Traditional craft villages are long and varied. Go to Can Gio Ecological Tourist Area. You can visit the famous tourist destinations. Such as Monkey Island, Vam Sat Mangrove Forest Resort, Dam Doi, Tram Chim or tourist area 30/4 …. With a favorable location near the center of Ho Chi Minh City

Can Gio eco-tourism area attracts many tourists to visit and relax on the weekend. Currently, the sea tourism in Can Gio – Vung Tau – Mui Ne is an ideal route for all visitors, bringing socio-economic and environmental benefits to Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces.

Eco-tourism area – Ba Be National Park (Bac Can)

Ba Be National Park is located 250km north of Hanoi, in Ba Be district, Bac Kan province. Ba Be lake ecotourism is about 70 kilometers from Bac Can town. Where there are many unique natural attractions. Ba Be Lake with a length of about 8km, about 20-30m deep. Especially the lake seems always blue, smooth. Two small islands rise in the middle of the lake. The lake is located between Ba Be National Park.

This is the ideal ecotourism in the North that any visitors who come once here must be “fascinated” by the natural scenery of clouds. Speaking about Ba Be National Park. This is a precious natural heritage, a unique limestone karst forest system. It has been recognized by UNESCO as the World Biosphere Reserve in Vietnam. .

With an area of ​​over 23,000 hectares, Ba Be National Park has many rare species of animals and plants. Such as phoenix, pheasant, humpback nose and so on. If you visit Ba Be National Park, you can go from Ba Be Lake to Dau Dang Waterfall. Where the Nang River is blocked by small, stacked rocks. Dau Dang waterfall with a slope of about 500m, is the greatest waterfall in this area, about 2km long. Certainly, observing this waterfall in the primeval forest landscape will make visitors feel very impressed.

In addition to Dau Dang waterfall, Ba Be ecotourism area also has many other attractive tourist attractions such as Tien pond (3 ha wide on the top of the mountain)

Ba Na – Suoi Mo Ecotourism Area (Da Nang)

In Da Nang, the central region, the famous ecotourism of Vietnam has many, including the eco-tourism Ba Na – Suoi Mo. This resort is more than 30km from Da Nang city center, and 1500m above sea level. Standing on the top of Ba Na, visitors can zoom out to tens of kilometers. Ba Na has many green forests with rich ecosystems and animals. Coming to Ba Na – Suoi Mo tourist resort. You have chance to enjoy the cool climate all year round, the ideal resort location, great resort.

Ba Na – Suoi Mo eco-tourism area has been recognized by the government as a natural reserve. To reach the top of Ba Na, visitors will cross 15km winding road. There are two ways to go, from Vọng Nguyet hill, visitors can take the cable car to the center or visitors to the walk.

At the foot of Ba Na, the stream of streams together Toc Tien Waterfall 9 beautiful high floor is also the attractive stop for visitors. With the current ecological tourism development, Ba Na – Suoi Mo ecotourism has changed and embellished to serve the increasing demand of tourists. Many ancient French villas, Buddhist cultural sites, restaurants, hotels … have been built to serve guests. Zone Ba Na Hill – Suoi Mo deserves as one of the destinations to visit in Vietnam.

Binh Chau Ecotourism Area (Ba Ria – Vung Tau)

Binh Chau Ecotourism Resort is located in Bung Rieng Commune, Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, 150km from Ho Chi Minh City. This ecotourism area attracts visitors thanks to the wonders of Binh Chau mineral springs. Zone tourist Binh Chau wider than 7000 hectares, is the primeval forest, in the middle of a heated emerged with more than 70 points exposed water spray form heated pools with different temperature.

Taking advantage of this hot mineral water. Binh Chau has built foot bath, massage … for visitors come here with the need for relaxation or hot mineral water for physical therapy. Binh Chau Hot Spring is one of the most attractive ecotourism sites of Ba Ria – Vung Tau.

In Binh Chau eco-tourism area. With the largest lake has an area of about 100m2, with a depth of more than 1m. This lake is the hottest spot for mineral springs. Observe the surface of the visitors will easily see the amount of steam rising, the water boiling. According to experts, the temperature at the bottom of the tank is about 84oC, on the surface at about 64 degrees. Where about 40 degrees, is very suitable for soaking feet to circulate blood vessels to heal.

At this point, visitors will be able to bathe in hot mineral areas, try to boil eggs in the sky wells or mineral mud bath … In addition to the closed works in sports entertainment for weekend visitors golf course, volleyball, swimming pool and moon garden with 1000 seats … Especially, around the area of ​​hot water with green melaleuca forests with tight roots to create strange shapes, adding to the excitement for visitors when visiting. Therefore, Binh Chau eco-tourism has been voted as one of the most sustainable ecological zones in the world.

Not only foreign tourists, but also Vietnamese tourists often visit these ecotourism sites to visit or relax. In the future, as human life becomes more modern and more dependent on technology, the type of ecotourism is increasingly developing to help people balance life.

And Origin Vietnam is confident that in addition to 10 famous ecotourism sites, there are many other eco-tourism sites awaiting your discovery. Image Sources: Internet

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Remains of the nir oz kibbutz are a vision of pure evil.

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For nearly seven decades, the Nir Oz kibbutz was an oasis rich in nature, with chirping birds, beautiful botanic gardens and juicy pomegranates.

More than 400 Israelis — many of them liberal peace activists — lived there in a joyous, tight-knit community.

But the paradise, less than a mile from the Gaza border, was shattered on October 7. By some accounts, as many as 700 terrorists, including Hamas Nukhba forces, brutally attacked the kibbutz. They killed or kidnapped 117 residents and destroyed 60% of the homes.

What remains is a heartbreaking memorial, a gut-wrenching crime scene and a vision of pure evil.

Every aspect of human life has stopped.The air is thick with the smell of death and destruction — an acrid, charred odor that conjures the stench in New York City after 9/11.

People are welcome to experience it for themselves — a new iteration of “terror tourism” that lets shellshocked visitors bear witness. They can weave in and out of modest, single story burnt-out homes, walk on crunched shards of glass, open refrigerators filled with trays of burnt eggs and see a laundry basket filled with barely recognizable, toddler-sized fairy princess dresses.

“The paradise we called home turned into hell on earth in just a few hours,” reads a grim visitor brochure from the kibbutz.

Irit Lahav, a 57-year-old jewelry designer who lived at the kibbutz, leads journalists through the most intimate parts of people’s homes.

She and her adult daughter miraculously survived as terrorists attempted to break into their home for eight hours before help arrived.

“We accepted death and said our goodbye words to each other,” she said as a cool breeze swept across the kibbutz playground, where dozens of kids, including the young Bibas boys, once played.

Ariel Bibas was 4-years-old and brother Kfir was just 9 months when they were taken hostage, along with mother Shiri.

Last week, Kfir, the youngest Israeli taken hostage, celebrated the grim milestone of having lived more of his life as a hostage than as a free boy.

“It’s still hard to accept it happened,” said Dalit Ram Aharon, a longtime Shiri friend who lived on the kibbutz. “Kfir is the cutest baby I’ve ever seen in my life.”

Ram Aharon was pregnant with her daughter, Oren, at the same time that Shiri was expecting Ariel. The two were born days apart and were best friends.

“She always asks about Ariel,” said Ram Aharon. “She asks if he’s still in Gaza and if he’s dead or alive.”

The Siman Tovs were another picture-perfect family who called Nir Oz home.

All three of the clan’s young children — Shahar, Arbel and Omer —were killed in a blaze started by terrorists. Standing in their destroyed home is a reminder of how quickly lives were destroyed.

Hamas also methodically burned all 250 cars at the kibbutz, so that residents who weren’t immediately murdered or abducted couldn’t escape. 

While it’s expected that it will take three years before the kibbutz is rebuilt, most residents have no plans to return to the site of unimaginable pain. Many are now living in temporary housing about an hour away in Kiryat Gat.

Survivors lost not just their homes and loved ones but their personal effects.

“It’s mind blowing that one day you find yourself only with your pajamas,” said Lahav, who had all of her possessions, including her life’s work, looted. Others say their belongings have been forever tainted by terror.

While Lahav and her neighbors’ sense of security has been completely shattered, it’s her years devoted to the peace process and humanitarian work with Gazan civilians — “many, many, many” of whom invaded the kibbutz during the attack, she said — that feels like an added blow.

She feels a sense of “deep betrayal” at the hands of the people she falsely sympathized with for years.

“We’ve been fools to believe that Hamas is separate from the people,” said Lahav, who used to regularly meet Palestinians at the border to get them medical treatment in Israel.

But, she no longer believes there are “good, innocent” Palestines who just want to send their children to school and have a peaceful life.

“I realized on that attack that there were women, teenagers and little kids attacking us, robbing everything,” she said.

“My opinion changed completely— I don’t think they’re innocent or want peace as a nation,” she said.

Discovering rapes and seeing mutilated bodies changed her.

“There are heads in someone’s living room over there,” she said, gesturing off into the near distances.

These days, old neighbors and friends know better than to ask one another a simple “How are you?”

“It’s too painful when someone asks,” explained Lahav, who still manages to laugh and smile while describing the indescribable.

The attack was more about “killing, killing, killing” than aspirations for a state, she said. It’s not a “few bad Hamas people” in control, she said, stressing the perpetrators weren’t solely Hamas fighters.

“Palestinians attacked us,” she said.

There’s also a survivor’s guilt.

“We know we’re lucky to be alive,” said Ram Aharon. “We survived, but it’s hard to live with this feeling. That you’re here and they’re there.”

But, both she and Lahav are intent on preserving their humanity.

“Would I still drive them for medical treatment. Yes … Even if it’s the woman who stole my jewelry,” Lahav said with a light laugh. “I want to keep my goodness.”

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Việt Nam News

Việt nam tourism considered as rising star in italy: official.

MILAN – President of the Italian Government Tourist Board (ENIT) Alessandra Priante has described Việt Nam tourism as a rising star in Italy.

Speaking at a tourism promotion programme held in Milan on June 27 by the Việt Nam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) and the Vietnamese Embassy in Italy, the Italian official said the numbers of tourists from Italy to Việt Nam and vice versa is expected to increase.

Addressing the event, VNAT Director Nguyễn Trùng Khánh said that Italy is a leading traditional and important market of Vietnamese tourism in Europe. In 2023, Việt Nam welcomed about 57,000 Italian visitors, equivalent to over 80% of the pre-COVID-19 pandemic level.

Khánh assessed that the Việt Nam Tourism Roadshow in Italy was a good opportunity for tourism businesses of the two countries to share updated information, seek business cooperation opportunities, increase tourism exchanges, and prepare for a new phase with stronger development.

Convenient direct flights, simple immigration procedures, attractive destinations and tourism products, and hospitable people are ideal conditions to promote tourism development between the two countries, he said.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Dương Hải Hùng affirmed that Italy is the third largest economy in the EU and a potential tourist market for Việt Nam.

The two countries celebrated the 50th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2023, which demonstrateed a long-standing friendship and cooperative relations and a good foundation for cultural, economic and tourism cooperation between the two countries.

Hùng said the Vietnamese embassy in Italy has carried out many activities to promote cooperation and promote tourism in localities in Italy. The Ambassador also appreciated the cooperation between Italy in general and the Lombardy region in particular with Việt Nam in recent times and emphasised the need for a direct flight connecting Italy and Việt Nam.

At the event, Italian travel businesses expressed their interest and asked many questions to better understand Việt Nam’s tourism policies and incentives.

Within the framework of the tourism promotion programme in Italy, Khánh had a meeting Alessandra Priante, ENIT President and Raffaele Cattaneo, deputy minister in charge of international relations of Italy's Lombardia region.

At the meeting, the two sides affirmed the need to strengthen tourism cooperation between the two countries in the coming time. They agreed to call on the two governments consider signing a bilateral tourism cooperation agreement in the new period.

They also agreed to propose leaders of the two countries to allow opening a direct flight between Việt Nam and Italy soon. The two sides also committed to strengthening tourism information exchanges and promotion activities in the coming time.

The programme in Italy was part of activities to promote Vietnamese tourism in Europe together with similar programmes held in France and Germany. - VNA/VNS

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