One of the most beautiful places in Asia, Vietnam is a traveler’s dream. Here’s a round-up of the most beautiful places in Vietnam you can add to your Vietnam itinerary.
From bustling cities, ancient towns, charming villages, breathtaking islands, and idyllic beaches to incredible national parks, unique pagodas, lovely rice terraces, lively river deltas, and lush tea and coffee plantations – Vietnam has it all.
The Most Beautiful Places in Vietnam
For all those wondering where to go in Vietnam, this exhaustive guide to the most beautiful places in Vietnam includes the tourist spots as well as hidden gems in the three main regions of Vietnam – Northern, Central, and Southern.
Best Places in Vietnam: Northern Vietnam
Hanoi: The Charismatic Capital City of Vietnam
A chirpy, humming, and timeless capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi has a rich history dating back a thousand years. Walking the streets of the storied Old Quarter is like walking back in time.
However, Hanoi isn’t just defined by its past. It has gracefully given space to ultra-modern innovations while holding on to its glorious past. You can sense the stark juxtaposition of modern & old here.
Hanoi has come a long way to become one of the best cities to Visit in Vietnam.
While exploring colonial architecture and ancient markets of the Old Quarter is one of the best things to do in Hanoi, you must check out the traditional cafe culture, thriving art scene, and authentic street food scene of the Vietnamese capital.
Pho bo, bun cha, and banh mi are the best street eats in Hanoi.
And if you love going out of the way, I’d recommend visiting the delightful neighborhoods of Ngoc Ha and Truc Bach.
For families traveling with kids, a water puppet show is an essential addition to the Hanoi itinerary.
Hanoi is a perfect base for exploring ancient towns, rustic villages, incredible landscapes, and breathtaking rice terraces this part of the country is known for.
When to go: Late October to early February is the best time to visit Hanoi. It’s when the weather is at its best and rainfall is lowest.
Getting there: You can easily reach Hanoi by air via the NoiBai International Airport, the largest in Vietnam.
Stay: Located in the real heart of Hanoi, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and AIRA Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa remain our top choices.
Yen Bai: One of the Prettiest Places in Vietnam
Sharing the border with six provinces – Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Son La, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, and Phu Tho, Yen Bai a far-flung highland province in Northern Vietnam.
Waiting to be discovered, the province keeps wilderness and ethnic culture & heritage under its hat. About 30 ethnic groups including minority tribes reside here who engage in forestry and agriculture for livelihood.
Apart from experiencing the traditional cultural life of ethnic people, the other highlights of Yen Bia include the stunning rice-terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai, the thrilling Khau Pha Pass, the pristine beauty of Thac Ba Lake, the unique landscapes of Muong Lo Valley, and ancient tea trees of Suoi Giang.
When in Yen Bai, you must sample Luc Yen Banana Cake, the province’s specialty.
When to go: Late May to June (planting season) and Late September to Early October (harvesting season) are the best times to witness rice fields in their entire glory.
Getting there: Around 200 km from Hanoi, you can travel to Yen Bai by car, bus, or train. A 2-hour drive from Yen Bai City to Mu Cang Chai takes you through gorgeous tea fields and the beautiful Khau Pha pass.
Stay: There are a handful of beautiful local homestays in Yen Bai City, Nghia Lo, and Mu Cang Chai. Hello Mu Cang Chai Homestay scores high on location, views, comfort, and food.
Ha Giang: One of the Most Adventurous Destinations in Vietnam
Catherine Xu from Nomadicated
Located in the northernmost province of Vietnam, the stunning region of Ha Giang is famous for its striking mountainscapes and indigenous hill tribe cultures.
Feel your jaw drop when you ride through the Ha Giang Loop, one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam! Best of all, it’s best done via a 4-day motorbike excursion.
A Ha Giang Loop itinerary is truly remarkable, offering winding roads that guide you through spectacular mountains, lush rice paddies, and valleys so deep they seem to stretch on forever.
As you meander through, explore captivating sights such as the Lung Cu Flag Tower, and the Vuong Palace, and most notably, experience the heavenly canyon views at Ma Pi Leng Pass.
Along the way, take a moment to meet the vibrant hill tribes people and explore their unique clothing styles, culture, and cuisine.
When to go: The Ha Giang Loop can be done year-round, but September to November may be the best season due to its dry yet comfortable climate. During this period, you will be mesmerized by the golden hue of the terraced rice fields as well as observe locals harvesting their crops and tending their land.
Getting there: If you’re coming from Hanoi, hop on the bus from Hanoi and embark on a 6-8 hour ride to Ha Giang.
Stay: Rest up in Phoenix Hotel, a taste of luxury in this bustling city, before renting a motorbike or hiring a guide to traverse the circuitous Ha Giang Loop.
Cao Bang: Rivers, Lakes, & Waterfalls
Snuggled in the country’s northeastern corner close to the border of China, Cao Bang is one of the hidden gems in Vietnam.
Much of this mountainous border province is protected as Non nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark. It’s home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam – Ban Gioc waterfall.
Crafting a natural boundary between China and Vietnam, It’s called the Ban Gioc on the Vietnamese side and Detian on the Chinese side. Bản Giốc–Detian Falls or Bản Giốc Falls is a collective name.
Close to the Ban Gioc Falls is the Trúc Lâm Phật Tích Pagoda. Climb to the top to relish the views of the valley and the falls.
With unique stalactite and stalagmite formations, the Nguom Ngao Cave is another high point of Cao Bang.
If you love hiking, take on the trail through the mountains to admire the meandering Quay Son River Phong Nam Valley.
Another attraction worth visiting is the Thang Hen Lakes, a remarkable system of about 36 emerald lakes connected through caves and underground passageways.
While here, look for Tuyệt Tình Cốc aka the Mountain Angel Eye, a giant hole in the center of the karst mountain formed by a cave. The golden hue of the setting sun peeking through the eye is a view to cherish!
Adventure lovers shouldn’t leave Cao Bang before they experience the thrill of driving the Me Pia Pass.
When to go: The dry months of October to April are the best!
Getting there: Cao Bang is over 280 km from Hanoi. The best way to travel is by bus, preferably a night bus that takes anywhere between 7 to 8 hours. If public transportation makes you sick, you can opt for a guided tour that’s much more convenient.
Stay: Nguom Ngao Ban Gioc Homestay and Lan’s Homestay are nice.
Son La: One of the Stunning Vietnamese Tea Regions
Son La is the gateway to the northwest region of Vietnam. It’s relatively untouched and thus, promises an exquisite experience to its visitors.
With an illustrious history, vibrant culture, and stunning nature, Son La is indeed an experience in itself.
Walking in the middle of the tea plantations of Moc Chau, running through the peach and plum flower fields in Long Luong, enjoying the scenery around Ban Ang Pine Forest, hiking the Phu Luong & Ta Xua Mountains, admiring the stunning Dai Yem waterfall & Chieng Khoa waterfall, getting close to the local community at charming Mong Village, understanding the province’s dark past at Son La Prison, knowing more about the local ethnicities at the Son La museum, walking back in time at Que Lam Ngu Che Epitaph, and stopping by the largest hydroelectric power plant in Southeast Asia – Son La is eyeful.
Delight in the local specialties of Son La – peach garden salmon and yen chau banana wine.
When to go: Son La is vivacious, any time of the year. However, late autumn to the beginning of spring is the most beautiful time of the year.
Getting there: With a total distance of 300 km (186 miles), It’s easy to get to Son La from Hanoi. A public bus takes about 7 hours while a private car takes over 5 hours.
Stay: Stay at a local honesty for an authentic experience. Moc Chau Cottage Homestay and Le Chalet du Lac – Moc Chau comes highly recommended.
SaPa: A Mesmerizing Town of Clouds of Vietnam
Jolene from Wanderlust Storytellers
Sapa is a beautiful town approximately 350 km (217 miles) northwest of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam.
It is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty, culture, and adventure that Vietnam has to offer.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains, and lush forests make this a perfect destination for hiking for all abilities and ages.
For more thrill-seeking activities, Sapa also offers rock climbing, zip-lining, and mountain biking.
Sapa has a diverse culture and should you visit any local villages, you can learn more about these cultures by interacting with the locals.
Sapa’s delicious cuisine uses local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. There are many street vendors grilling meats that have been marinated with herbs.
The vendors grill everything from pork to beef to chicken over hot coals, resulting in a smoky and delicious flavor. The grilled meat is often served with local rice from Sapa.
When to go: The best time to visit is when the weather is mild and the skies are clear (March to May or September to November). The rice paddies are also at their most beautiful with the fields turning various shades of green.
Getting there: If you travel to Sapa from Hanoi, the most popular way is via train; however, you can also opt to travel via bus, private car, or taxi.
Stay: One of the best hotels in Sapa is the Topas Ecolodge. Located on a hilltop, the luxurious bungalows have panoramic views overlooking the Hoang Lien Son mountain range.
Ha Long Bay: One of the Most Famous Places in Vietnam
World-famous for its rugged limestone islands & islets (most of them are untouched) rising dramatically from the emerald green ocean waters, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While taking in the enchanting scenery is the best thing to do here, you can visit the local floating fishing villages or indulge in water sports like kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling or witness the unique biodiversity
There are quite a few ways to witness the beauty of Halong Bay. You can choose the one that fits your budget and travel style. The most popular ways are taking an overnight cruise and a day cruise.
Cruises sail through bluish-green waters amid the impressive limestone islands, stopping at hidden caves that give visitors a chance to catch sight of ancient rock formations up close.
For a different perspective of the bay, a seaplane flight tour and cable car tour are great. These tours allow you to enjoy the incredible bird’s eye view of Halong.
If you love hiking, climb the top of Titop Island or Bai Tho mountain to behold the beauty of the bay from above.
When to go: Plan during the dry season (October to April). It’s when the weather is perfect and the visibility is good.
Getting there: You can visit Halong Bay as a day trip from Hanoi that’s just about 178 km (108 miles) away, however, it’s best to spend a day or two here. It’s easy and fast to travel by a shuttle bus, limousine van, private car, taxi, or motorbike. If time isn’t a constraint, there’s nothing better than a train. Alternatively, you can choose a cruise to Halong Bay from Hanoi.
Stay: You can stay overnight on a cruise or choose to stay on one of the bay’s beautiful islands like Cat Ba Island, Co To Island, Tuan Chau Island, or Quan Lan Island, or can book a stay in Halong City.
Nam Dinh: Home to the Most Beautiful Churches & Cathedrals in Vietnam
Located on the Red River Delta, Nam Dinh remains untapped and makes for a great offbeat destination in Vietnam. If you are looking for unique places to visit in Vietnam, add Nam Dinh to your bucket list.
The historic Tran Temple Complex is one of the major landmarks here. It’s a group of three beautiful temples dedicated to the rulers of the Tran Dynasty, the natives of Nam Dinh during the 13th century.
When we talk about the best cathedrals & churches in Vietnam, Saigon takes the cake, however, Nam Dinh’s outweighs them.
Displaying stunning Gothic architecture, Nam Dinh is home to plenty of beautiful Roman Catholic churches, cathedrals, and basilicas, some of the most beautiful in the country. Some of them almost feel surreal.
Bui Chu Church, Phu Nhai Church, Kien Lao Church, Trung Linh Church, Thanh Danh (St Jean) Parish, Hung Nghia Church, An Phu Church, Nam Dinh Cathedral, Xuong Dien Church, Tang Dien Parish, Hai Nhuan Church are a few to name.
Birdwatchers will love to explore Xuan Thuy National Park.
Kem xoi, pho bo nam dinh, and banh gai are the local delicacies you must try.
When to go: With a tropical climate all through the year, spring and autumn are the promising seasons to visit Nam Dinh.
Getting there: Just about 100 km from Hanoi, Nam Dinh is easily accessible by local bus, train, motorbike, or private car.
Stay: Nam Cuong Nam Dinh Hotel and SOJO Hotel Nam Dinh
Trang An: Halong Bay on Land
Stephanie Craig of History Fan Girl
Located in the Ninh Binh province, Trang An has earned the nickname “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its gigantic limestone karst peaks that tower over the submerged valleys of the Red River delta.
While it’s as beautiful as Ha Long Bay, it receives a fraction of the tourists due to its more rural location. Like Ha Long Bay, Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designated as such in 2014.
The most popular thing to do in Trang An is to take a boat tour in the Trang An grottos. Here you can see temples rising out of the water, take your boat through underwater caves, and explore forgotten Hollywood movie sets.
Across from the entrance of the grotto, there is a place to get lunch as well as shop for a few Vietnamese souvenirs.
When to go: With clear skies, less rain, pleasant weather, and festive spirit, January to March is a great time to visit Trang An.
Getting there: You can visit Trang An on a day trip from Hanoi. If you like visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you can hire a private driver and pair it with a stop at the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty. Alternatively, many organized tours leaving from Hanoi stop at both the Bai Dinh Pagoda and the Trang An grottos.
Stay: If you choose to stay in Trang An, Trang An Retreat is a beautiful option.
Tam Coc: The Mysterious Caves of Vietnam
Cecilie from Worldwide Walkers
In Northern Vietnam, you’ll find a place with towering limestone cliffs, calm rivers, and green rice fields that are surrounding a thriving little town – this is Tam Coc.
A part of the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex, Tam Coc is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam.
There are so many great things to do in Tam Coc, and it’s especially great for those who are looking for beautiful landscapes.
You can go on an incredible boat ride through the extraordinary UNESCO site of Trang An, you can visit the famous Mua Caves viewpoint for sunset, or why not just jump on a bike and cycle between the rice fields and limestone cliffs?
Apart from its beautiful nature, Tam Coc is also surrounded by a lot of cultural places such as the ancient capital Hoa Lu and Vietnam’s largest pagoda at Bai Dinh.
When to go: The end of May to the start of June is the most beautiful time of the year to visit Tam Coc if you want to see the rice fields blooming in lush green, yellow, and golden hues.
Getting there: Tam Coc is only located 2 hours away from Hanoi and can easily be reached on a day trip. However, if you really want to experience everything the area offers, you should spend a night or two.
Getting to Tam Coc is honestly the easy part, it’s leaving again that’s hard. Not because there aren’t enough buses and taxis to take you, but because Tam Coc is one of those places that brings tranquility to the busy traveler.
Stay: Tam Coc Lavender Homestay is good for those looking to stay in an affordable and friendly place in the center of town.
Pu Luong: A Hidden Gem in Vietnam for Nature Lovers
Contributed by Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers
Pu Luong is a mountainous region in northern Vietnam famous for its beautiful karst mountains and terraced rice fields.
The best things to do in Pu Luong Nature Reserve are walking, cycling, and relaxing.
Numerous pathways and small country roads will lead you to magnificent viewpoints through lovely rice and banana plantations.
If you get tired from all that exploring, you can have a dip in one of the pools of the 800-meter-long Hieu waterfall or have a picnic at a gorgeous spot in nature. A lot of homestays also have a pool, that is often open year-round.
There aren’t many restaurants in Pu Luong but don’t let this hold you back from visiting this region.
In Pu Luong, you eat at your homestay and the homecooked food from the White Thai minorities that live here is simply delicious.
Homestays are the main sort of accommodation in Pu Luong and almost every guesthouse has free bikes for rent to explore the wonderful landscape.
When to go: The green months of May and June and the harvest months of September and October are the best to admire the magnificent beauty of the rice fields.
Getting there: It’s located only 160 kilometers van Hanoi and can be visited on a day trip but staying a few days is warmly recommended. This will allow you to connect with the natural rhythm of this region that is still relatively untouched by tourism!
Stay: Pu Luong Holiday comes highly recommended.
Beautiful Places in Vietnam: Central Vietnam
Phong Nha: One of the Greatest Caving Destinations in Vietnam
Joanna of The World in my Pocket
Phong Nha is still one of those hidden places in Vietnam, relatively undiscovered by the masses of tourists.
Visiting the caves is one of the best things to do in Phong Nha.
The easiest cave to access from the village is Phong Nha Cave. The prices are per boat, and, if you are a solo traveler, just wait for others to show up and share the cost. Phong Nha Cave is accessible by boat only.
You will cruise on the river until there, then at the entrance, the engine will be turned off and you will be able to see the beauty of the cave.
For the rest of the caves, it is recommended to go on a tour. The most impressive cave is Paradise Cave, inside which you can walk for one kilometer.
To reach the entrance to the cave you will have to climb a steep path, but it’s all worth it when you see the stunning scenery from the interior.
If you are interested in an adrenaline tour, check out the Dark Cave. To reach it, you will have to slide down a zip line. Inside the cave, there is no light. To pass through you will have to swim, walk through narrow passages, and reach mud baths.
When to go: The dry season from March to August is a good time to explore Phong Nha.
Getting there: The Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is four hours away drive from Hue. It is highly advisable to stay there overnight and spend a few days exploring the area and the caves for which the park is so famous.
Stay: Phong Nha Farmstay or Chay Lap Farmstay
Hue: A Must-Visit Town in Vietnam for Architectural Enthusiasts
Saskia from Sas Crossing Countries
Huế used to be the cultural heart of Vietnam, because of its central location. If you’re interested in learning about Vietnam’s history and culture, Huế is the place to be!
Add the amazing local cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere to the mix and you’ve got plenty of reasons for a visit.
When in Huế visit the Imperial Citadel and its Forbidden Purple City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with colorful temples and lush gardens.
Being here makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Other must-dos are the Thien Mu Pagoda and boarding a Dragon Boat on the Perfume River.
Huế is also a perfect base for a day trip to the former Demilitarized Zone.
Huế has the most amazing produce in all of Vietnam. With lots of fruits, fresh seafood, meats, and herbs to spice all the dishes up. Famous local dishes are Bun Bo Hue, a noodle soup, and Bun Thit Nuong, noodles.
If you’re planning a family trip to Huế, visit Sas Crossing Countries and read 5 things to do in Hue with kids.
When to go: The best time to visit is the Spring, January to April. This is when temperatures are between 20 to 26 degrees Celsius. Peak season is from June to August when prices are at their highest and temperatures can reach 35 to 42 degrees Celsius. The wet season is from September to January. Temperatures fluctuate between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius and you can expect lots of rain.
Getting there: Hue is only 94 km (58 miles) from Da Nang and the public transport options like buses and trains as well as private vehicles are readily available.
Stay: Senna Hue Hotel and White Lotus Hue Hotel are located in the heart of the city and are rated highly by travelers for their location, food, and comfort.
Da Nang: A Blend of Mountains and Beaches
Lauren of Never Ending Footsteps
Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam that’s home to some of the best beaches – and food – in the country.
With crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand, My Khe Beach and Non-Nuoc Beach are some of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. But the attractions of Da Nang don’t stop there.
Dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage by visiting historical sites, like the Cham Museum and Linh Ung Pagoda, or set out on a day trip to hike in the Marble Mountains, see the Instagram-famous Ba Na Hills, or explore ancient Hindu temples in My Son.
Food lovers will adore Da Nang; one of the best places to eat in the country. Be sure to try the local specialty, Mi Quang, which comprises thick turmeric noodles, rich pork and shrimp broth, fresh herbs, vegetables, seafood, and even a crispy sesame cracker.
When to go: In terms of when to visit, the warmest time of year is between February and May. However, the city is an excellent year-round destination, with mild temperatures and sunny skies, even in the middle of the rainy season.
Getting there: Getting to Da Nang is relatively easy, as the city is home to an international airport that’s a short drive from the city center. And if you’re staying in Hue or Hoi An, Da Nang makes for an excellent day trip option.
Stay: It doesn’t cost much to travel in Vietnam, and Da Nang is no exception. You could easily get by spending $30 a day, and if you up your budget to $100 a day, you’ll be in for a seriously luxurious stay. When it’s time to rest your head, opt for Louis Mo. It’s just several minutes walk away from the beach, quiet at all times, and close to some of the best restaurants in town. Throw in some truly wonderful staff and a particularly excellent rooftop swimming pool, and you have one of the best hotels in the city.
Ba Na Hills: A Beautiful Hill Resort in Vietnam
Vidyut of Triplyzer
Nestled in the Truong Son Mountains, Ba Na Hills is a picturesque resort located around 40 km from Da Nang.
Taking you to the top is one of the longest cable cars (around 6 km!) in the world offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
One of the most popular attractions in Vietnam, this mountain resort features an array of interesting attractions, including Buddhist temples, a castle, an amusement park, and European-styled landscaped gardens.
It is known for its French colonial buildings which date to the early 20th century. But the highlight of the visit is the famous Golden Hands Bridge, a modern architectural marvel.
Standing 1,400 meters above sea level, the awe-inspiring bridge is one of the famous landmarks of Vietnam.
This unique 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge features giant stone hands that appear to be holding it. The hands are covered in moss and made to look weathered and old, lending a vintage feel to the bridge.
You can take a walk across the bridge and enjoy the sweeping views of the majestic mountains and serene coastline below.
While the alluring model French Village with its gothic church and old town atmosphere is perfect for a romantic visit.
Also, there are a number of restaurants in the Ba Na Hills complex offering a variety of cuisines from Vietnamese to Western. With so much to see and do, a day trip to Ba Na Hills is a worthy addition to your Vietnam itinerary.
Ticket costs VND750,000 for adults and VND 600,000 for children.
When to go: It’s best to plan during the spring months.
Getting there: You can easily take a day trip to Ba Na Hills from Da Nang by private car or motorbike. A guided day trip is perfect for all those who want to save the hassle.
Hoi An: The Most Colorful Town in Vietnam
Vrushali of Couple of Journeys
Located in Central Vietnam, Hoi An is definitely the most beautiful and vibrant town in Vietnam.
The Ancient Town in Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is full of ancient structures with Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese roots. Talking about the most beautiful cities in Vietnam, Hoi An tops the charts.
The Japanese covered bridge is the most famous attraction. But you should also see the many communal halls, assembly halls, and old houses.
The town comes to life after sunset when its lanes are adorned with colorful lanterns. A lantern boat ride at the Thu Bon river is one of the tourist highlights of Hoi An.
Ideally, 2-3 days are enough in Hoi An. But if you stay longer, there are plenty of beaches, islands, and other cultural towns nearby that you can visit on a day trip.
Cau Lau and White Rose Dumplings are a Hoi An specialty. It is best to try these with a classic Vietnamese cold brew coffee.
When to go: Being in Central Vietnam, the region experiences rainfall and storms in October and November. Visiting it between December to February is ideal.
Getting there: It’s just a short 45-minute drive away from Danang. You can take a train or
Stay: One of the best accommodations in Hoi An is the Hoi An Ancient Town Resort & Spa.
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam: Central Highlands
DaLat: Beautiful Countryside, Waterfalls, and Adventure Sports
The charming city of Da Lat in the highlands of the Lâm Đồng Province Southern Vietnam shows a very different side of the country.
Here you will find the weather is spring-like not tropical hot, houses are atypical French-colonial villas, and the towns are surrounded by coffee and strawberry farms instead of rice plantations.
Da Lat with its temperate mountain climate is home to some of the most diverse food in Vietnam ranging from fantastic fruit and vegetables to amazing pastries and exciting dishes.
The city is one of Vietnam’s premier couples destinations with many beautiful sites to enjoy in nature.
Hike to some spectacular waterfalls, the impressive Elephant Waterfalls, and the beautiful Datanla Waterfalls offer some fantastic photo opportunities.
For a tranquil experience visit Truc Lam Pagoda, a Zen Buddhist monastery on the top of Phoenix Mountain, with the Da Lat Cable Car.
The bizarre Crazy House with its strange architecture and interiors is an experience not to miss. The area offers some of the best motorcycle tours in Vietnam.
Get on a bike with your guide for a full day and visit waterfalls, coffee plantations, and many fantastic mountain sites.
Da Lat is very popular with adventure addicts. The mountains here are the perfect terrain for canyoning, water rafting, and mountain biking.
If you are an adrenaline junkie there are experienced guides to show amazing rivers to paddle, trails to cycle, and cliffs to jump from.
When to go: From December and March, it’s when the flower gardens are in full bloom and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Getting there: You can fly or take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City. Taking a bus or driving from the nearest Mui Ne or Nha Trang is also an option.
Stay: Want to sleep in a psychedelic dream? Book a room in the well-rated Da Lat Crazy House, also one of the most popular tourist sites in the city.
Hon Khoi: One of the Most Beautiful Salt Fields in Vietnam
Located in Ninh Hoa in Khanh Hoa Province, Hon Khoi Salt Fields is one of the largest salt fields in Vietnam. A visit to Hon Khoi is a beautiful culturally immersive experience.
A source of income for the local communities, these salt fields serve as a beautiful tourist destination. Apart from unique photo opportunities, a visit to Hon Khoi offers a chance to look into the lives of salt workers that work their fingers to the bone under harsh conditions yet remain lovely and joyful.
You can smell the scent of salt and feel the hot sea breeze from the distance. And as soon as you reach the fields, the sight of vast salt marshes sparkling under the sunshine mesmerizes you. Dawn and Dusk are the perfect times to capture the magic of salt fields.
The middle-aged women wearing conical hats enduring the salt-making process welcome tourists with warm smiles that melt their hearts.
You must try freshly cooked seafood when in Hon Khoi.
Finish your day with a relaxed stroll at Doc Let Beach.
When to go: The salt-harvesting season from January to July is ideal.
Getting there: Hon Khoi is an hour’s drive from Nha Trang city and you can easily travel via car, taxi, or motorbike.
Stay: White Sand Doclet Resort & Spa and GM Doc Let Beach Resort & Spa are lovely places to stay near Hon Khoi.
Best Places in Vietnam: Southern Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City: The Best City to Visit in Vietnam
The largest city and the economic heart of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is an essential addition to any Vietnam itinerary.
Formerly called Saigon, the city was renamed after its beloved former president for his groundbreaking role in the independence of Vietnam, however, locals still love to call it by the old name.
The chaotic megacity, as I may call it, is an assault on the senses at first, however, a little time and research prepare you to see the beauty in chaos.
From Reunification Palace, Le Duan Boulevard, and Notre Dame Cathedral to Central Post Office, Saigon Opera House, and Hotel Continental – District 1, the heart of the city is sprinkled with stunning colonial buildings.
War Remnants Museum recounts the painful & dark wartime history of Vietnam.
Ben Thanh Market is another important symbol of the city owing to its historic significance. The market is a one-stop shopping destination for locals as well as tourists.
If you love coffee, adaptive reuse architecture, and a boho vibe, the Cafe Apartment at 42 Nguyen Hue has to be on your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary. Overlooking Saigon river, it’s an old apartment block repurposed to house artsy cafes, hipster bars, cool restaurants, and elegant boutiques.
A trip to Saigon is incomplete without gorging on incredible roadside delicacies like banh mi, banh xeo, and com tam.
When to go: Ho Chi Minh City is a year-round destination, however, the weather is most favorable from December to March.
Getting there: Tourists mostly start in Hanoi (northern end) and end in Ho Chi Minh City (southern end) covering destinations along the way. You can do it the other way around too. You can choose to fly, take a train, hop on a bus, or drive.
Stay: The Reverie Saigon and Fusion Suites Saigon – A super central location and luxurious rooms with gorgeous interiors and huge picture windows make them desirable.
Mui Ne: Home to Unique Red & White Sand Dunes
De Wet & Jin of the Museum of Wander
Mui Ne, a coastal town about 200 km east of Ho Chin Minh City, is simply gorgeous.
You’ll love Mui Ne for its beautiful beaches, unique landscapes, and fishing village vibes. It’s a great place for a relaxing holiday in Southeast Asia.
As a beach town, Mui Ne’s main attraction is its coastline, stretching over 15 kilometers along the South China Sea.
Mui Ne is particularly popular for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Behind the beaches, you’ll find Mui Ne’s famous sand dunes. The Red Sand Dunes and White Sand Dunes are the two most famous dunes in the area, which are incredibly stunning during sunset when the colors become more vivid.
Another must-visit attraction in Mui Ne is the Fairy Stream, a small freshwater stream that runs through a scenic canyon. Visitors can walk barefoot through the shallow stream while admiring the red rock formations beside the stream.
Photographers will love the harbor where fishermen come to unload their catch at sunrise. The beach is a commotion of activity and color, and the bay filled with thousands of boats is incredibly picturesque.
Enjoy seafood along the waterfront with a cold beer or fresh coconut for the best meal in Mui Ne.
When to go: November to March, when the northeast monsoon wind blows, is the best time for the adventure sports activities Mui Ne is known for. At other times, the beaches are still good for swimming and relaxing.
Getting there: Buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne take approximately 5-6 hours, making it too far for a day trip. Rather, come for a few days and enjoy the beauty and relaxed atmosphere.
Stay: The Sailing Club Resort offers a comfortable stay right on the beach.
Mekong Delta: The Rice Bowl of Vietnam
Soumya from Stories by Soumya
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam is the Mekong Delta region in the southwestern part of the country. Also dubbed as the “rice bowl of Vietnam”, Mekong Delta is fecund, culturally rich, and absolutely worth visiting.
Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region is spread over a large area comprising 12 provinces and hundreds of small villages and towns.
One of the best things to do here is to visit the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest in Vietnam and the best place to get a deep insight into Mekong life and culture.
Be sure to hop on a Mekong Delta cruise trip to experience the natural beauty of the region.
Another unmissable Mekong Delta attraction is the Tra Su mangrove forest which offers spectacular sceneries as well as amazing birding opportunities.
Do not forget to try local delicacies such as fried elephant ear fish, traditional Vietnamese crepes called banh xeo, and the comforting pho when traveling in the region.
When to go: The best time to visit Mekong Delta in Vietnam is during the dry season between November – April. November – February is the busiest because temperatures are also pleasant during this time.
Getting there: Many people visit Mekong Delta as a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City though it is ideal to spend at least two nights here.
Stay: You can book a night in a local homestay and enjoy an authentic home-cooked dinner. Bamboo Eco Village in Can Tho with its lovely garden is a great choice.
Con Dao Island: One of the Best Islands in Vietnam
Karla from Colorful Journeys
Con Dao Island, located off the coast of Vietnam, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
With its secluded beaches, lush jungles, and rich cultural heritage, Con Dao is sure to take your breath away.
Additionally, Con Dao is known for its history as a former prison island, adding a unique layer of depth to your visit.
There are numerous activities available on the island, such as relaxing on the beaches, island hopping, and scuba diving.
The Con Dao Prison Museum, which offers an insightful look into one of Vietnam’s darkest eras, is also a must-see. Here you will find the cell blocks where prisoners were kept, including the famous tiger cages.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can buy fresh seafood at the local market and cook it in your accommodation’s kitchen. Otherwise, enjoy a delicious seafood meal at one of the many restaurants in the main center.
When to go: The best time to visit Con Dao is between February and September when the weather is milder and the skies are clearer.
Getting there: You can take a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City or a ferry from Vung Tau to get to the island.
Stay: There are plenty of great places to stay in the center, close to the restaurants and the beach. Homestay De la Rosa is a cabin-style accommodation perfect for those who want to enjoy a peaceful and quiet environment while still being close to the center.
