There are so many ideal places to visit in Vietnam. This country is proud of its dazzling metropolises, idyllic islands, and vast national parks. The beauty of Vietnamese nature and culture is astoundingly diverse. This enchanting country is full of unexpected things. Our top Vietnam tourist spots listed on vietnamtour.in will help you organize your trip. Let’s move on!
Hanoi – One Of The Ancient Places To Visit In Vietnam
- Rich in culture and architecture
Many significant cultural landmarks exist, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Ngoc Son Temple. Around 15 unique museums concentrate on fine art, traditional medicine, and Vietnamese women.
- Delicious foods
Hanoi has a rich cuisine. It is home to various mouthwatering regional specialties and age-old cuisines.
I recommend trying Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls) and Pho Ga (Chicken noodle soup) for a flavor of traditional Hanoi. Vegetarian choices are always available for those who don’t eat beef or pork.
Then, it’s a great idea to enjoy Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee). Its flavor frequently reminds you of tiramisu.
- Paradise of photography
Hanoi is a vibrant paradise of photography. You may take breathtaking photos of the foggy Ngoc Son Temple or the French yellow buildings along the lush alleyways.
- Affordability
The city is one of Southeast Asia’s most reasonably priced travel destinations, offering inexpensive lodging, dining, and local transportation.
A single dorm bed will cost you about $7, while a double room may cost you about $28. A local beer is about $1, while a bowl of Pho will cost about $2.
Halong Bay – A World Heritage Site In Vietnam
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
Because Ha Long Bay is so beautiful, it has been designated as a World Heritage site twice. It impresses tourists with 3,000 islets of towering limestone from the emerald-green lake.
- Various activities
Relaxing in the emerald water under the sun is an effective therapy. The calm waters of Halong Bay can soothe all the tension from your hectic daily schedule.
Besides, look for a cruise for an exceptional experience along Halong Bay. It is the best type of transportation in the region.
- Affordability
Halong Bay is a popular destination for travelers on a tight budget. The cost per person for two days and one night ranges from $99 to $139. Luxurious cruises range from $160 to $245 per person.
Sapa – Top Place For Cloud-hunting In Vietnam
- Humid subtropical climate
First, due to its 1600 meters above sea level, Sapa has a humid subtropical climate throughout the year. In the summer (May to August), it rains moderately. It is cloudy in the winter, with frequent mist, frosts, and sporadic snowfalls.
- Spectacular landscape
Sapa is renowned for having stunningly gorgeous natural scenery. The Hoang Lien Son ranges, and Sapa’s tropical forest cover the spectacular mountains and valleys, creating a stunning landscape.
It will be worth it to go on an adventure tour to climb Fansipan Mountain, popularly called the “Roof of Indochina,” or explore gorgeous Cat Cat waterfalls.
- Ethnic minorities
Sapa is home to numerous ethnic communities with distinctive traditions, attire, architectural designs, and languages. Most reside in the tiny villages and hamlets in Muong Hoa Valley.
Mai Chau – A Destination For Nature Lover
- The best destination for relaxing
Mai Chau is approximately 120 kilometers away from the bustling Hanoi. Its tranquil landscape keeps your mind clear of stress.
You may spend the night in a Thai family’s homestay. It will also be a fantastic opportunity to learn about another lifestyle.
- Suitable for family travel with kids
A trip to Mai Chau is the ideal way to educate your kids. You may encourage them to try new things like cooking local dishes or cycling.
Your kids may love trekking and cycling through the valley since they can observe local people working in the fields. It’s an excellent chance to learn how to farm.
Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay On Land
- Ha Long Bay on land
Ninh Binh is called the “Ha Long Bay on land.” Numerous rivers run around hundreds of limestone monoliths crowned by lush vegetation, creating a poetic scenery.
While there are mountains in the West and North, the beaches are in the East and South. It is no exaggeration to say that Ninh Binh has everything.
- Specialty food
Ninh Binh’s cuisine is proud of the abundance of mouth-watering dishes made of goats. Because the goats naturally grow up on limestone mountains, their flesh is firmer than goats in other places.
- Affordability
Finding an affordable place to stay is easy because Ninh Binh is progressively becoming one of the most famous tourist destinations in Vietnam. Budget hostels with shared beds start at about $8 per night. A private room is available at about $15 per night.
Ha Giang – Best Place For Motorbike Loop
- Gorgeous mountains
You may find beautiful mountainous terrain throughout Northern Vietnam. But the Ha Giang province has some of the most spectacular mountains.
The passes in this region have an uncanny appeal to adventurers. The Ma Pi Leng Pass, which connects Dong Van and Meo Vac, is the most well-known mountain crossing.
- The pristine pace of life with minor tourism exploitation
Since tourism has only recently grown in Ha Giang, everything remains exceptionally pristine. It is a precious experience when you can see the stunning and colorfully attired minorities when driving by.
I recommend visiting the weekly markets in Meo Vac and Dong Van to discover more about these distinctive cultures. You may spend the night at a local homestay to learn about their life.
- The very northernmost point of Vietnam
It would be best to visit the Lung Cu flag pole, located in the northernmost point of Vietnam. You will end up seeing beautiful, tranquil countryside and small towns.
- The best motorbike loop
Many domestic and international travelers regard the Ha Giang Loop as Vietnam’s most fascinating motorbike road.
It’s better to go with a guide if you don’t have a driver’s license or feel unconfident about driving over northern Vietnam’s rugged highlands.
Da Nang – The Most Charming City In Vietnam
- Charming beach
Da Nang has beautiful beaches. You will have a memorable summer with crystal blue beaches, pristine sands, and endless sunshine.
- City of bridges
Han River, which runs through the city’s center and four outstanding bridges, is the symbolic landmark of Da Nang. These symbols remind tourists of a youthful and vibrant city.
- Diverse cuisine
You must try Mi Quang Ga (Chicken Quang Noodle) and Banh Mi Hoi An (Hoi An baguette). These delectable dishes present the distinctive culture of central Vietnam.
Hoi An – Ancient Town
- Ancient town
The old town of Hoi An is what makes this place so famous. It is home to hundreds of ancient structures, recognized as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Vietnam.
It feels like you have traveled back in time as you stroll around the old town. There are great places for dinner, gorgeous backdrops for picture shoots, and many shops for buying handicrafts and gifts.
- Hindu temples
Lastly, you may take a day trip to the My Son temples. These deserted Hindu temples built in the fourth century are among the most impressive sights you’ll ever see.
Nha Trang – A Coastal City In Vietnam
- Golden sandy beach
A sandy beach is the most attractive feature of Nha Trang. Every day, crowds of tourists congregate at Tran Phu Beach to enjoy the hot sun and cool water.
Exciting water sports in Nha Trang will exhilarate you. In addition, you may drive 60 kilometers north of the city to Doc Let to admire one of Vietnam’s most stunning stretches of coastline.
- Seafood Capital
Nha Trang is Vietnam’s capital of seafood. You may find fresh fish and shellfish in the seas off the shore of Khanh Hoa.
Don’t worry about hunger in Nha Trang, with all the upscale hotels, restaurants, and streetside cafes available everywhere. It’s a good idea to have dinner with the locals for deeper explorations of the culinary potential of the city.
- Mud baths
It would help if you tried the mud baths at Nha Trang. The mineral-rich clay provides medicinal and skin-healing advantages, such as improved circulation and moisturization.
After that, immersing yourself in the hot mineral pools may make your day. If you feel exhausted, I recommend booking a chocolate body wrap or a massage.
- Hindu architecture
The Po Nagar Cham Towers constructed by the Cham people in the eighth century are Vietnam famous places. Its stunning architecture incorporates designs of Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
- Vibrant nightlife
Nha Trang is good at throwing night parties. Sailing Club Nha Trang is the town’s focal point for a thriving nightlife scene.
Weekend beach parties at Sailing Club are well-known all around Vietnam. Various locals, foreigners, and tourists are likely to attend these parties.
Hue – A Poetic City In Vietnam
- Former Imperial Capital
Hue was the capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. Traveling there, you must visit the Imperial Citadel first.
This place is a vast complex of structures and temples where the royal family formerly lived. Significantly, the Forbidden Purple City, which sits within the Imperial Citadel, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Ancient pagoda
The magnificent seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda, built in the 1660s, is one of the city’s emblems. The pagoda perches atop a hill, offering a tranquil haven among the city’s busy daily life.
- Spectacular landscape
I recommend hiring a motorcycle, scooter, or jeep to drive down the magnificent Hai Van Pass.
It is the highest pass in Vietnam, nearly 1,640 feet tall above sea level. You’ll see everything while standing there, including small villages, sanded beaches, mountain ranges, and rainforest jungles.
Thanh Hoa – Rich Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty
- Natural wonders
Thanh Hoa is proud of its abundance of natural treasures, which include waterfalls, fountains, the ocean, mountains, caverns, and charming hamlets. All of them create magnificent scenery.
- Abundant foods
Seafood is the staple of Thanh Hoa cuisine. I don’t know how to express my addiction to mouthwatering dishes made of squid, prawns, steamed clams, shrimp, and so on. Delicious food may soothe your weary spirit.
- Cool blue sea
If you haven’t been swimming in the refreshing blue sea in Thanh Hoa, you’re missing out. Sam Son Beach with its expansive golden sand beaches, flowing blue water, gray-hued coconut groves, and casuarina woods is a precious creation of Mother Nature.
Quy Nhon – Tranquil Coastal Retreat
- Pristine beaches
Quy Nhon will be your ideal destination if you’re looking for a beautiful place to explore genuine Vietnam. The enduring shorelines and gorgeous mountains will leave you with a memorable vacation.
- Sand-boarding
The giant dunes next to Nhon Ly Beach are a fantastic place to attempt sandboarding. It would be an unforgettable experience.
Quang Binh – Adventure Hub with Spectacular Caves
- Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park and Son Doong Cave
The Son Doong Cave and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park are well-known attractions in the Quang Binh province. The most comprehensive system of various intriguing caverns makes it the most valuable location in Quang Binh.
- Local specialties
Quang Binh boasts a unique dish called Chao Canh Ba Don (Ba Don noodle soup). This dish combines broth and noodles of flour, rice flour, and tapioca starch.
Enjoying a bowl of Chao Canh Ba Don on a cold spring morning is a must-try. Nothing can stop you from swallowing the soft, warm noodles and drinking the hot and spicy soup.
In addition, there are different local specialties in the province:
- Seafood
- Rice cakes
- Noodle soup with snakehead
- Honey
- Local wine
- Mushroom
Da Lat – Romantic Flower City
- Temperate climate
Da Lat has a temperate climate due to the surrounding mountains and pine trees. The temperature ranges from 5 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Dalat never experiences storms. The East side of Da Lat, which has no mountain, sometimes experiences strong gusts from the ocean.
- Clean fruit, vegetables, and coffee
Da Lat is also well-known for fresh fruits, veggies, and coffee. Make sure to sample the local cuisine for the whole Vietnamese experience.
- Adventure sports
Canyoning combined with sightseeing is one of the best ways to experience Da Lat’s natural beauty. This activity offers you the chance to see the spectacular landscape that is made up of hills, pine trees, and waterfalls.
You will have all the best tools to conquer the adventure. After all, you will succeed in improving your courage, excitement, and strength.
In addition to canyoning, Da Lat is known as Vietnam’s capital of other adventure sports.
- Canyoning
- White water rafting
- Trekking
- Mountain biking
- Overnight camping
Ho Chi Minh City – Vibrant Urban Experience In Vietnam
- Historical attractions
There are numerous significant historical sites in Ho Chi Minh City. It is ideal for history enthusiasts because it has many attractions, such as the War Remnants Museum, the Independence Palace, and Cu Chi Tunnels.
- Diverse cuisine
Ho Chi Minh City has a wide range of traditional and modern dishes. You have many alternatives, from affordable street food to opulent Mediterranean mezze and Carolina-style barbecue pig ribs.
- Night bustling life
Ho Chi Minh City is incredibly crowded. At night, the city is full of people hanging out from cafés and pubs to lakes and bridges.
There are a ton of pubs and clubs. Pham Ngu Lao Street is the place where the parties last all night.
Binh Thuan – Scenic Coastal Landscapes
- Picturesque beauty
Binh Thuan lures many tourists because of its stunning scenery and varied geography. This region stands out for breathtaking lakes, babbling streams, and windswept rocky beaches.
- Pristine Phu Quy Island
Phu Quy has stunning scenery and abundant natural resources. The island has thousands of colorful coral reefs living under crystal-clear waters along the picturesque beaches.
- Seven-color stone beach
Locals refer to the beach in Co Thach as the “seven-color stone” because it has many colorful rocks and thousands of tiny, round, flat pebbles. It’s one of the most alluring and distinctive sceneries in Vietnam.
Vung Tau – Coastal Escape with Stunning Views
- Poetic beaches
The long, sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and pleasant surroundings draw tourists to Vung Tau. In addition, you are free to wander through incredibly poetic and magnificent tourist attractions.
You will undoubtedly become engrossed in that enchanting world with only one sunrise or sunset. Space and time are like to stop moving as the sky becomes crimson at dusk.
- Distinct dishes
Vung Tau not only attracts tourists by its beautiful scenery but also by its distinct cuisine. Because it is a beach city, no wonder why seafood is Vung Tau’s specialty.
There are a variety of types and prices. Once you have tasted Mai fish salad, Sawfish hot pot, or Squid noodle soup, you will not take them out of your mind.
Tay Ninh – Religious and Cultural Center in Vietnam
- Land of spirituality
Tay Ninh can steal the hearts and souls of many travelers with its abundance of spirituality, mystery, and adventure. Travelers often compare Tay Ninh to a fairytale locale.
Tay Ninh Holy See is a symbol of this region. If you plan a trip to Tay Ninh, visit this creation to explore its beauty.
- The tallest bronze Bodhisattva statue
Remember to visit the 72-meter-tall Bodhisattva statue of 170 tons of red copper on the top of Ba Den Mountain. According to Asian Records, this statue has established the record for “The tallest bronze Bodhisattva statue situated on a mountain in Asia.”
Mekong Delta – Mosaic of Waterways
- Rice growing tradition
Mekong Delta is well-known for its stunning natural setting and long-standing rice-growing culture. The significant supply of water is the Mekong River.
The Mekong River splits into nine tributaries. Rice grows when the water recedes, while fisheries flourish during the flood.
- Diverse attractions
Visitors to the Mekong Delta may visit the floating market and historic towns.
- Unique-flavored dishes
The Mekong Delta’s food has a distinct flavor inspired by Thai and Cambodian cooking techniques. The area is well known for its abundant tropical fruits, vegetables, and freshwater fish.
Con Dao – Pristine Island Paradise
- Unspoiled natural beauty
Con Dao comprises 16 islands and islets. This place is well-known for its pristine natural beauty.
- Wide range of activities
Hiking, snorkeling, and visiting wild animals are the most common activities. You may also visit the former Con Dao jail or explore coral reefs.
- The most beautiful beaches
Anyone traveling to Con Dao should see Dam Trau Beach. It is one of the top 25 beaches in the world, with its pristine water and vibrant coral reefs.
On the other hand, Nhat Beach, Bay Canh Island, Ca Map Cape (Shark Cape), and Con Dao national park are where you can see rare species up close and take in the breathtaking sunset.
- Fresh seafood
Seafood is usually fresh and great-flavored since it is caught right from the ocean. Con Dao’s most well-known specialties are mackerel, oyster porridge, moon crab, snails, and scallops.
Phu Quoc – Tropical Island Getaway
- Vibrant tropical beauty
Phu Quoc is most known for its long beaches with white sand. The water is as pure as bathwater.
The crystal-clear water is a perfect window into the colorful underwater world. In that world, a massive network of coral reefs encircles the islands.
- Diversity of activities
There are a variety of activities that get you excited. Various water activities are perfect for thrill-seekers.
If you’re ready for a more challenging trip, hike to one of the mountain peaks that form a spine across the park. If you aren’t in the mood for exercise, Suoi Tranh Waterfall is an alternative destination.
- World-famous for fish sauce
Foodies must try the fish sauce made in Phu Quoc. The unique charm of Phu Quoc fish sauce is that it has natural light amber but not using coloring agents.
I recommend visiting a factory to understand how to do this delicacy. Tourists can purchase Phu Quoc fish sauce to give as a present to their loved ones back home.
The Bottom Line
In summary, each region has its unique culture, cuisine, customs, and habits. I want to recommend the famous places to visit in Vietnam as below:
- Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long
- Central Vietnam: Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Da Lat
- Southern Vietnam: Saigon, Can Tho, Phu Quoc
There are many tips to help you choose the destination that suits your preferences the most.
First, consider who you will go with on your upcoming trip. How many days can you spend on the trip? How much budget do you have?
Second, you should carefully research the weather information where you will travel. You will not want to lie in the room to watch the rain. However, if the weather is good, that destination will also be in the peak tourist season!
Finally, think about the experiences you want to have on your vacations. Make a list, and have a nice trip to Vietnam!
Let’s find out more inspirational destinations in Vietnam with the list below.
Hanoi – Vietnam’s heart and soul
- Location: Northern Vietnam
- Places to visit: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Old Quarter, Bat Trang Ceramic Village
- Things to do: Sample the street food, explore Hanoi’s cafe culture, take a cyclo tour, watch the cultural show
Halong Bay – Where the dragons descend into the emerald waters
- Location: Northern Vietnam
- Places to visit: Thien Cung Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Tuan Chau Island, Sun World Halong Complex, Quang Ninh Museum
- Things to do: Cruise the bay, explore a floating village, paddle out in a kayak, clamber into a cave
Sapa – Meeting land between heaven and earth
- Location: Northern Vietnam
- Places to visit: Fansipan Mount, Muong Hoa Valley, Cat Cat Village, Lao Chai Village, Silver Waterfall, Love Market
- Things to do: Summit Mount Fansipan, visit an ethnic minority market, go trekking in the hills, stay in a mountain lodge
Ninh Binh – Captivating region often referred to as ‘Ha Long Bay on Land’
- Location: Northern Vietnam
- Places to visit: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An Grottoes, Bich Dong Pagoda, Mua Caves, Cuc Phuong National Park
- Things to do: See the view from Hang Mua, take a sampan tour, visit the ancient capital, pay a visit to the Bai Dinh Temple
Hue – The imperial city of heritage, The land of poetry
- Location: Central Vietnam
- Places to visit: Imperial City, Emperor’s Tomb, Thien Mu Pagoda, Perfume River, The Thanh Toan Bridge
- Things to do: See Imperial Vietnam, eat like a king, explore the city’s Buddhist roots, cycle in the rice paddies
Da Nang – Paradise on Vietnam Central’s sparkling coastline
- Location: Central Vietnam
- Places to visit: Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge, Danang Cathedral, Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, My Khe Beach
- Things to do: Enjoy the beach, see the Son Tra Peninsula, learn about Cham culture, explore Marble Mountains
Hoi An – A little old town where history and culture come alive
- Location: Central Vietnam
- Places to visit: Japanese Bridge, My Son Sanctuary, Cham Island, An Bang Beach, Tra Que Village, Cam Thanh Coconut Village
- Things to do: Get lost in the Old Town, cycle in the countryside, marvel at My Son Sanctuary, have tailor-made clothing
Da Lat – A flowery town of romance. Little Paris in Vietnam
- Location: Central Vietnam
- Places to visit: Domaine de Marie Church, Tran Le Xuan Mansion, Linh Quy Phap An Pagoda, Tuyen Lam Lake, Datanla Waterfall
- Things to do: Take the alpine slide to Datanla Waterfall, stroll around the valley of love, wander through the Da Lat flower garden
Nha Trang – Eastern Pearl, where the sun, sand, and sea meet to create paradise on earth
- Location: Central Vietnam
- Places to visit: Bai Dai Beach, Po Nagar Tower, Vinpearl Land, Hon Mun, National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam, Ba Ho Waterfall
- Things to do: Go beach-hunting, try a mud bath, enjoy water activities, visit Po Nagar Tower and Bao Dai villa
Ho Chi Minh City – The Pearl of the Far East – The city that never sleeps
- Location: Southern Vietnam
- Places to visit: Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, Saigon Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, Landmark 81
- Things to do: See the top landmarks, shop small boutiques, explore the Chinese Quarter, hop on a motorcycle
Mekong Delta – Life in the Mekong Delta flows as smoothly as the river that feeds it
- Location: Southern Vietnam
- Places to visit: Cai Rang Floating Market, Vinh Trang Temple, Ong Temple, Cai Be Floating Market, Binh Thuy Ancient House
- Things to do: Exploring Mekong Delta’s nature, visit Ba Duc Ancient House in Tien Giang, explore Tra Su cajuput forest
Phu Quoc – Vietnam’s pearl island – A heavenly getaway
- Location: Southern Vietnam
- Places to visit: Vinpearl Safari, Duong Dong Market, Rach Vem Floating Market, Long Beach, Phu Quoc Prison
- Things to do: Visit Turtle Island and Fingernail Island, explore VinPearl Safari Phu Quoc, ride the world’s longest cable car
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