Welcome to a land where green-veiled landscapes, exceptional culture, and fascinating history melt into harmony. Get ready to spoil your tastebuds with the refreshing taste of pho and sharpen your senses in the bustling traditional markets of Hanoi. Every corner of Vietnam tells an incredible story. For that reason, Vietnam is an all-time favorite destination that you must put into your bucket list. So, are you thinking about traveling to Vietnam and wanting to list the places to visit in the country? Well, you come to the right blog! Here are the 14 best places to visit in Vietnam for an amazing journey.
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam – Summary
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay
- Hoi An
- Dalat
- Hue
- Da Nang
- Ninh Binh
- Sa Pa
- Nha Trang
- Phu Quoc
- Cat Ba Island
- Mekong Delta
- Mui Ne
Ho Chi Minh City
No one can leave Ho Chi Minh City when talking about Vietnam. As the cultural melting pot of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is vibrant and glamorous. Skyscrapers glimmer during the night, art markets burst with colors and patterns, and shopping malls stand confidently with their high-end stores. On the other hand, the war-torn past of Vietnam breathes into the city. European-styled buildings have stood since the French colonization era, along with the remnants of the Vietnam War. Therefore, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most iconic places to visit in Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City has a little bit of everything for everyone. For history buffs, you can dive into Vietnam’s past in the War Remnants Museum or visit the underground Chu Chi Tunnels. For shopaholics, you can head to local markets such as Ben Thanh and Binh Tay to hunt for some traditional crafts or textiles. Moreover, it is always a good idea to experience the city’s nightlife. Head to Bui Vien Street and get ready to have the best party of your life.
Hanoi
Spoil all your senses in this charming capital of Vietnam. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of Northern-style pho, admire the antique centuries-old buildings in the Old Quarter, and smell the pleasant smell of flowers in Quang Ba Market. Hanoi looks like no other capital, as relaxed neighborhoods and beautiful historical buildings adorn it. On the other hand, the days are bustling with thousands of motorcycles and endless market scenes.
Hanoi is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. Traveling to Hanoi means cultural and gastronomical galore. You can visit some of Hanoi’s historical sites, such as the Hoa Lo Prison, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Spend your time strolling along the Old Quarter, where Chinese-style buildings, art shops, and local delicacies are centered. Furthermore, make sure to enjoy a relaxing time by the Hoan Kiem Lake and stop by the Ngoc Son Temple.
Ha Long Bay
If you are wondering, “What is the number one tourist spot in Vietnam”, Ha Long Bay is a great answer. This archipelago of thousands of limestone cliffs looks like a scene out of a movie. Turquoise-green waters, diversely shaped limestone cliffs, and the mystical vibes of the bay are incredible. No wonder that UNESCO listed the place as a World Natural Heritage Site. Thus, you can explore Ha Long Bay by going on a cruise. Whether you visit for one day or stay overnight, Ha Long Bay’s beauty will make you fall in love.
When cruising along Ha Long Bay, you will stop in several islands and caves. Some of the best spots in Ha Long Bay are Ti Top Island, Dragon Eye Island, Sung Sot Cave, Dau Go Cave, and Tuan Chau Island. Additionally, you can hop on a kayak or bamboo boat and sail through a natural cave. Moreover, taking a Ha Long Bay tour means munching on fresh seafood. Get the chance to try squid cakes, freshly caught prawns, and spring rolls.
Hoi An
Travel back in time as you land in Hoi An. Centuries-old pagodas stand proudly with its intricate facade, wooden-fronted shops line the alleys, and bright-colored lanterns light the streets. The Thu Bon River separates Hoi An’s buildings-lined banks. As the sun goes down, the river lights up with boats and canoes carrying warm-colored lanterns. It sends out a romantic vibe, perfect for a surreal date night. For that reason, it is considered one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.
There are so many things to do in Hoi An. You can stroll along the old town of Hoi An and admire its vintage, bright-colored buildings. Walk along the Chua Cau bridge, which looks intricate with its Japanese-styled decorations. Then, take a look at the Vietnamese heritage in the Old House of Tan Ky. Thus, you can end the day by exploring the Hoi An Night Market. Buy some souvenirs to bring back home at cheap prices or sample some sizzling street food.
Dalat
Tucked on the South Central Highlands of Vietnam, Dalat gives out a piece of Europe. The city is lined with beautiful centuries-old buildings tinted in pastel colors and designed in French colonial style. Pine forests, winding valleys, and breathtaking waterfalls circle the city. Flowers bloom throughout the year in Dalat, perfecting its dreamy scenery. It is a favorite getaway destination for locals, but also worthy to visit for travelers. Therefore, Dalat is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
If you want to avoid Southeast Asia’s heat, Dalat is for you to visit. Dalat has spring-like climate with cool temperatures. For that reason, you might need to pack a light jacket or sweater during your visit to Dalat. Moreover, Dalat is worth visiting for its impressive attractions. Nature spots like waterfalls, forest-clad hiking trails, and flower gardens welcome you to unwind. Alternatively, you can check out the quirky Crazy House, which features an absurd construction and fairytale-inspired photo spots.
Hue
As the window to Vietnam’s imperial history, Hue is simply incredible. The city dates back to the 17th century and witnessed the rise of the Nguyen Dynasty. Hue’s royal mausoleums, intricate pagodas, and magnificent palaces tell a tale beyond time. Moreover, the city looks better surrounded by winding hills, jungle-fringed rivers, and endless ricefields. Offering a harmony between nature and manmade wonders, Hue is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
Traveling to Hue means diving into Vietnam’s extraordinary history. Visit the Imperial City of Hue, which looks fascinating with its towering walls and ornate architecture. Then, stroll around the Tomb of Tu Duc and admire its beautiful facade. Additionally, take a look at how Buddhism evolved in Vietnam by visiting Thien Mu Pagoda. Besides magnificent historical spots, Hue is also famous for its food. Try out an authentic bun bo hue, a spicy beef noodle soup that originates from the city.
Da Nang
Famous for its golden sand beaches, Da Nang is the primadonna of Central Vietnam. The city boasts sumptuous star resorts with towering buildings, meadowed misty hills, and intricate Buddhist temples. Moreover, it is home to the renowned hand-shaped bridge or the Golden Bridge, which stands at 4,600 feet above sea level. Moreover, Da Nang is for everyone who loves sightseeing and history.
The strategic location, exquisite nature, and vibrant city of Da Nang make it worth visiting. Moreover, you won’t run out of things to do in Da Nang. Of course, the most popular tourist attraction in Da Nang is the Ba Na Hills, which houses the Golden Bridge and Southeast Asia’s longest cable car. Besides that, you can head to the Marble Mountains and experience its fantastic manmade cave. Therefore, Da Nang is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
Ninh Binh
Verdant landscapes and laidback local villages are what you can find in Ninh Binh. Tucked a few hours away from Hanoi, the region gains popularity for its extraordinary scenery. Jungle-clad limestone hills, winding deep-colored rivers, and fertile rice fields create Ninh Binh’s beautiful landscape. Besides that, the region keeps a record of Vietnam’s ancient history. You can spot centuries-old pagodas and temples in Ninh Binh.
The main attraction in Ninh Binh is Tam Coc, often referred to as ‘the Ha Long Bay on land’. A wide river stretches in the attraction, adorned with towering limestone cliffs and rice fields. You can sail along the river while admiring the dramatic stone formations. Get ready to be dazed as the boat passes by a cave-like formation, which leads you to an Avatar movie-like landscape. With its gorgeous landscapes and quaint atmosphere, Ninh Binh is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
Sa Pa
Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains, Sa Pa is Vietnam’s own fairyland. Rolling valleys brushed in refreshing greens, magnificent rice terraces stack on the hills, and the Fansipan Mountain stand proudly cloaked in mist. It is no surprise that Sa Pa is considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam. Moreover, it is a great destination for everyone who are looking for a quaint and serene getaway.
Traveling to Sa Pa allows you to connect to nature, as well as learning about authentic Vietnamese culture. Pay a visit to Cat Cat Village, where you can mingle with H’mong community and learn their impressive way of life. Moreover, you can buy some colorful handicrafts or try out Vietnamese traditional clothes. Furthermore, if you are an outdoor person, you can go trekking along Sa Pa’s lush hills and valleys. Also, you can hike the magnificent Fansipan Mountain.
Nha Trang
Are you thinking about a place like Miami in Southeast Asia? Well, Nha Trang it is! This beach resort city in Central Vietnam is lined with gorgeous promenades, luxurious accommodations, and high-end boutiques. Bars and nightclubs throw fantastic parties that you wouldn’t want to miss. Moreover, the shores are fringed with flawless, powdery beaches. The mild waves of Nha Trang’s beaches invite you for awesome water activities, such as kiteboarding and sailboating.
Besides its glitz and glam, Nha Trang houses timeless heritage sites and authentic traditional villages. Pagodas, palaces, and museums stand proudly, untouched by the rapid urbanization. Additionally, Nha Trang is a haven for foodies. Freshly-caught seafood dipped in flavorful sauce are ready to spoil your tastebuds. Moreover, don’t miss the city’s night market. You can get a bite of the famous pulled pork summer rolls, which is Nha Trang’s specialty.
Phu Quoc
Spend a sunny and relaxing day in Phu Quoc. This quaint island is tucked off the coast of Southern Vietnam. Thus, it is located closer geographically to Cambodia but is a part of Vietnam. Phu Quoc island shows you what a perfect vacation looks like with its flawless beaches, brilliant blue ocean, swaying palm trees, and gentle waves. Serene, untouched, and beautiful – Phu Quoc Island is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
The island features the perfect blend of natural beauty and manmade wonders. The glimmering sea becomes a playground for watersport lovers. You can hop on a jet ski, go kite surfing, or discover Vietnam’s gorgeous underwater landscapes by diving. Besides that, you can pay a visit to the island’s pearl farms. As the sun goes down, Phu Quoc lights up with night markets and dazzling bars. In a nutshell, there is no shortage of things to do in Phu Quoc Island.
Cat Ba Island
Towering cliffs stand on the island, veiled with lush vegetation. Powdery sand beaches circle the limestone-dominated land. Turquoise waters sparkle under the sun. The dense jungle becomes home to exotic birds and long-tailed monkeys. Cat Ba Island is a work of art and you would not want to miss it. Furthermore, it is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
Cat Ba Island is tucked in the western edge of Ha Long Bay. So, a lot of tourists choose to stay in Cat Ba Island to get the best out of the UNESCO-listed bay. However, if you are not feeling like staying longer in Ha Long Bay, you can do other activities in Cat Ba Island. The most popular one is visiting the Cat Ba National Park and trekking in its dense jungles. Additionally, you can relax on Cat Ba’s island beautiful beaches.
Mekong Delta
Immerse yourself into the authentic everyday life of Vietnam in Mekong Delta. Stretching along southern Vietnam, this delta plays an important role for the locals. Mekong Delta is diverse and fertile, making it the perfect place for agriculture. Rice fields and plantations dot the banks. Besides that, mangrove forests and lily pad waterways call the delta home. Diverse and authentic, Mekong Delta is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
You can explore the Mekong Delta by going for a canoe tour. On a wooden canoe rowed by a local, you will be lead to sail through Mekong Delta’s waterways. Get ready to witness the raw and traditional side of Vietnam. Mangrove forests line the bank, water buffalos walk along the ricefield, and floating markets sell fresh agricultural products. Thus, you can visit during the dry season between December and May to avoid flooding.
Affordable and beautiful – those are the reason why Vietnam is an all-time favorite! Then, these 14 best places in Vietnam is worthy to put into your Vietnam bucket list. Which one do you want to visit the most?
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