Places To Visit In Vietnam: 10 Highlights For Travelers

Hanoi

Hanoi - the capital of Vietnam - is one of the country's two most-visited destinations. With over 4,000 years of tumultuous history, the city is rich in historical landmarks and cultural stories. Besides, it seamlessly blends with the bustling rhythm of modern urban life, creating a hectic yet vibrant atmosphere.

Hanoi ranked 17th in the Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Destinations 2023 by Trip Advisor users

Hanoi offers a range of captivating experiences, including:

• Visiting iconic city landmarks: Ho Chi Minh Complex, Temple of Literature, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Hoan Kiem Lake, etc.

• Exploring the Old Quarter by foot or cyclo

• Stopping by the famous Train Street to watch the train pass by

• Sipping coffee at a local café – Hanoi's coffee culture is a signature experience

• Enjoying traditional shows like water puppetry or The Quintessence of Tonkin

• Visiting traditional craft villages like Duong Lam Ancient Village, Bat Trang Pottery Village, Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, etc.

• Joining the lively nighttime atmosphere at Ta Hien Beer Street

• Savoring local cuisine: Pho, Bun Cha, Cha Ca, Banh Mi...

Ninh Binh

In stark contrast to the bustling life of Hanoi, Ninh Binh just 90km away, offers a more tranquil and serene atmosphere with its picturesque rural beauty. In ancient times, this area was a frequent retreat destination for kings and the aristocracy.

Ninh Binh was recognized by Forbes in 2023 as one of the world's 23 must-visit destinations

Ninh Binh captivates visitors with its outdoor activities amidst breathtaking natural scenery:

• Boating through UNESCO World Heritage site Trang An, the Tam Coc-Bich Dong National Monument, or Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve

• Biking through the fields, rivers, and limestone mountains of the Hoa Lu-Tam Coc region

• Hiking up to the Mua Cave for panoramic views

• Visiting historical sites: Hoa Lu ancient capital, Bich Dong Pagoda, Thai Vi Temple, Am Tien Temple, etc.

• Strolling through the Hoa Lu Old Quarter at night

• Exploring Bai Dinh Complex – one of the largest Buddhist complexes in Southeast Asia

• Trekking in Cuc Phuong National Park

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a must-visit destination for any traveler in Vietnam. Renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, it offers an array of highly rated experiences:

Enjoying moments while in Halong Bay

• Exploring the bay by cruise

• Kayaking and swimming in the bay

• Visiting famous islands like Titop, Soi Sim

• Discovering caves such as Sung Sot, Dark and Bright Cave, Dau Go, Luon Cave

• Visiting traditional fishing villages like Vung Vieng, Cua Van, Ba Hang, Cong Dam

• Participating in cruise activities like swimming, sunset viewing on the sundeck, cooking classes, morning tai chi, and dinner on board

• Exploring and enjoying the entertainment options in Halong City

Ha Giang

Ha Giang is a remote Northern province known as Vietnam's frontier. The destination is irresistibly alluring with its rugged, untouched natural beauty that leaves visitors breathless.

Ha Giang's mesmerizing nature scene

Some of the best experiences in Ha Giang are:

• Conquering the Ha Giang Loop – a circular route passing through the four districts of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac

• Visiting Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Global Geopark

• Admiring the terraced fields in Hoang Su Phi

• Conquering Ma Pi Leng – one of the four most challenging mountain passes in Northwestern Vietnam

• Exploring Ha Giang's historical sites: Vuong Palace, Lung Cu Flag Tower, Pao’s House, etc.

• Visiting valleys and villages in Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac

• Boating on the Nho Que River through Tu San Canyon – the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia

Quang Binh

Quang Binh is home to some of the most magnificent and awe-inspiring caves in Vietnam, including Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, and Hang En, the third-largest. Additionally, Quang Binh's pristine natural environment, far from tourist hubs, makes it a worthy inclusion in any list of top places to visit in Vietnam.

Son Doong - one of the most astonishing caves of Quang Binh

Top experiences in Quang Binh include:

• Exploring the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site

• Venturing into caves like Son Doong, Hang En, Tu Lan, Paradise, Dark Cave

• Swimming at beaches: Nhat Le, Bai Da Nhay

• Visiting the historic Dong Hoi Citadel

• Discovering the Kong Sinkhole

• Staying at farm stays like Phong Nha Farmstay and Chay Lap Farmstay, and experiencing the tranquil rural life of Vietnam

Da Nang

Da Nang is considered the most livable city in Vietnam – clean, civilized, convenient, reasonably priced, and packed with things to explore. It is a city where many expats choose to live, and it draws many return visitors each year.

Da Nang Golden Bridge

In Da Nang, travelers can:

• Explore the Son Tra Peninsula

• Relax at some of the world’s most beautiful beaches of My Khe and Non Nuoc

• Visit famous city landmarks: Marble Mountain, Dragon Bridge, Museum of Cham Sculpture, Linh Ung Pagoda

• Spend a day at Sun World Ba Na Hills atop Ba Na Mountain and check in at the Golden Bridge

• Shop at Han Market, Con Market, Son Tra Night Market or Helio Night Market

• Visit local craft villages like Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, Nam O Fish Sauce Village

• Indulge in local cuisine: Quang Noodles, Cao Lau, Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo, seafood, etc.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a destination for everyone. This UNESCO World Heritage ancient town is dating back to the 16th century. The quaint town lies along a gentle river and is steeped in culture and history. Moreover, Hoi An’s hospitality consistently delights visitors. Since gaining fame, it has never fallen off the top lists of recommended travel destinations in Southeast Asia.

Hoi An ranked 4th in the World’s Best Awards 2024 by Travel + Leisure in the category of World’s Most Loved Cities 

In Hoi An, travelers can enjoy:

• Exploring the ancient town: visiting old houses, temples, assembly halls, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge

• Boating on the Thu Bon River along the ancient town and releasing lanterns at night

• Shopping in the old town or experiencing tailor-made clothing in just a few hours

• Savoring local dishes: Cao Lau, Mot Herbal Water, Chicken Rice, White Rose Dumplings, etc.

• Visiting the coconut village and taking a basketboat ride

• Heading to the countryside to visit rice paddies, farms, cook rustic dishes, and visit local craftspeople

• Joining a lantern-making class

Hue

Hue was the last imperial capital of Vietnam, preserving the most recent relics and culture of a feudal dynasty before the monarchy was entirely abolished. Additionally, accommodation and dining costs here are incredibly reasonable, with average room rates around $43 USD and local food costing less than $1 USD per dish.

Hue tells visitors its old-time stories

Special experiences in Hue include:

• Exploring the Hue Imperial Citadel

• Visiting the royal tombs of the kings: Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, Minh Mangi, etc.

• Taking a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River

• Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda – an ancient symbol of Hue

• Participating in the Hue Festival in April

• Listening to Hue royal court music

• Enjoying a royal-style meal from ancient Hue

• Watching the sunset at Lang Co Bay

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's leading economic hub. After World War I, the city was dubbed "the Pearl of the Far East" by the French due to its rapid development. Although it has a shorter history of over 300 years – much younger than Hanoi – the city has left its mark.

Explore the energetic Ho Chi Minh City at night

In Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can:

• Explore the city's most famous landmarks: Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Independence Palace, Thien Hau Pagoda

• Take a double-decker bus tour of the city

• Visit the War Remnants Museum

• Cruise on the Saigon River

• Shop at Ben Thanh Market, Cho Lon Market, Saigon Centre

• View the city from Saigon Skydeck in the Bitexco Tower

• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels Historical site

• Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Bui Vien walking street

• Watch the A O Show performance

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is Vietnam's most fertile region, serving as the nation's rice bowl and the largest fruit-growing area. This region is defined by its intricate network of rivers, with nine main branches flowing out to the sea. The surrounding areas are home to warm-hearted, rustic communities that offer a glimpse into the authentic Vietnamese countryside lifestyle.

Mekong Delta is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam

When visiting the Mekong Delta, travelers simply cannot miss:

• Exploring the small riverine islands, visiting fruit orchards, and local villages

• Listening to traditional music performed by local people

• Touring local production facilities, such as coconut candy, chocolate, honey, and rice paper

• Taking a wooden boat ride through the water coconut forests

• Enjoying a rustic meal featuring local specialties like coconut water-steamed shrimp, braised fish, and sour fish soup

• Visiting the vibrant floating markets in the early morning

Looking for more information? Our article on travel guide to Vietnam!

This list showcases the top 10 places to visit in Vietnam, each offering signature attractions and unique experiences for travelers. If you’re interested in exploring these destinations, feel free to check out our tours on the website or leave us a message for further assistance.