Discover the best places in Vietnam to visit with this ultimate guide. Add these must-visit destinations to your next Vietnam travel itinerary and create unforgettable memories.
Vietnam is a country in Southeast Asia that offers an incredible array of experiences for travellers. From the bustling cities to serene natural landscapes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking rich history, vibrant culture, or delicious cuisine, Vietnam has it all.
Explore ancient temples and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of places like Hoi An and Cu Chi. Relax on stunning beaches along the coast or trek through breath-taking mountain ranges. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the beauty of green rice fields and traditional villages that showcase the authentic charm of Vietnam.
With its abundance of tourist attractions, including the famous Ha Long Bay and several world heritage sites, Vietnam never fails to captivate visitors with its diverse sights and experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, this Southeast Asian gem has plenty to offer.
So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through some of the unique places to visit in Vietnam.
Planning your trip to Vietnam last minute?
Below are some of the top tours, hotels and more! Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Vietnam and nearby!
TOP ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN VIETNAM:
1. HALONG BAY CRUISE (#1 selling Vietnam tour!)
2. MEKONG DELTA (another top-seller!)
3. CU CHI TUNNELS IN HCMC (great for history lovers!)
4. VIETNAMESE COOKING CLASS (for the foodies!)
5. HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR (come hungry!)
TOP HOTELS IN VIETNAM:
1. LA SIESTA CONTRAL HOTEL & SPA IN HANOI (we stayed here and recommend it!)
2. LYS HOMESTAY IN NINH BINH (we also stayed here – recommended for budget travellers!)
3. INTERCONTINENTAL DANANG SUN PENINSULA RESORT (great for a splurge!)
Best Places in Vietnam Map
Best Places in Vietnam to Visit in the North
Are you planning a holiday in Northern Vietnam? Check out our list of the best places to visit in Northern Vietnam and the opportunity to see some really beautiful destinations.
1. Sapa, Vietnam
Contributed by Milijana at ‘World Travel Connector’
Sapa, in the far north of Vietnam, is one of the most amazing places to see in Vietnam.
Sapa is home to the highest mountain in Vietnam, the vastest rice terraces in Vietnam, and the most interesting hill tribes in Vietnam. Sapa is an incredibly unique and must-visit place in Vietnam.
Hiking Fanspian mountain, trekking Sapa rice paddies, and learning about the cultures of the local hill tribes are the top things to do in Sapa. Sapa is also a must-go destination in Vietnam for nature lovers for trekking the incredible rice paddies.
It is also a must-visit destination in Vietnam for culture enthusiasts who would like to meet and learn about hill tribes such as Hmong, Red Tao, Tay, Giay, and Muong hill tribes.
When to Visit Sapa: Sapa sees the best weather and the greenest rice paddies in September, October, November, and March. So, if Sapa is on your bucket list, pick one of these months for heading there.
How to Get to Sapa: Sapa is about 310 km northwest of Hanoi. You can travel from Hanoi to Sapa independently or join a tour. The 2-Day Sa Pa Ethnic Homestay Tour with Trekking is among the most popular from Hanoi. However, you can also get to Sapa by bus or train. A bus ride from Hanoi to Sapa takes 6 hours on average, and a train ride takes 8 hours on average. Sleeper buses and trains are the most popular options for traveling from Hanoi to Sapa.
Where to Stay in Sapa: Consider booking a stay at Hmong House Sapa. This charming homestay comes with gorgeous views of rice paddies!
2. Hanoi, Vietnam
Contributed by Katie at ‘KatieCafTravel.com’
Hanoi, Vietnam’s enchanting capital, is a not-to-miss spot while traveling the country. Hanoi is known for seamlessly blending rich history and culture with a vibrant modern vibe.
One of the key reasons to visit Hanoi is its historical significance; you’ll find ancient temples, colonial-era architecture, and a labyrinth of narrow streets in the Old Quarter.
In the heart of Hanoi lies Hoan Kiem Lake, where the Ngoc Son Temple sits on a tiny island. This picturesque viewpoint is where Hanoi’s Weekend Night Markets are held.
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night the Old Quarter area of Hanoi shuts down its streets to cars completely for the Weekend Night Market.
At the Night Market, you can see a variety of local performing musical artists, do some shopping, and try Hanoi’s famous street food.
Diving into the local street food culture is an essential part of any trip to Hanoi —try a steaming bowl of pho or crispy banh mi from a roadside vendor.
Don’t miss the chance to dine at ‘Bun Cha Huong Lien’, the famous eatery where President Barack Obama once savoured the flavours of Hanoi.
Top Tip: The best tip for Hanoi travel is to download the Grab app. Grab is Vietnam’s version of Uber, and you can use the app for everything from hailing taxis to ordering food for delivery.
For the best panoramic view of Hanoi, head to the Lotte Observation Deck. It offers breath-taking vistas of the city, especially during sunset. Another top tip is to take a cyclo tour around the Old Quarter, letting you absorb the city’s charm at a leisurely pace.
When to Visit Hanoi: The best time to visit Hanoi is between October and April – During these months, Hanoi experiences the lowest level of humidity.
How to Get to Hanoi: Hanoi is easily accessible, by flight you can reach Hanoi’s Noi Ban Airport from any major travel hub.
Where to Stay in Hanoi: If you’re looking for a special and historic stay in Hanoi, you can’t go wrong with the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. This 5-star hotel has a rich history in the area and was the location where Hanoi’s famous Egg Coffee tradition was founded in the 1940s.
3. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Contributed by Brandon at ‘Zimmin Around the World’
Ha Long Bay is a natural wonder, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the most popular Vietnam tourist spots. With around 1,600 islands rising above the beautiful water, Ha Long Bay is a spectacular place to visit. Many tour agencies offer Ha Long Bay day trips or multiple night cruises. Feel free to take in the beautiful scenery, relax on board the cruise ships, and take part of fun activities like kayaking and swimming.
The most popular thing to do at Ha Long Bay is to take a cruise ship around the bay and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Most cruises will include a stop at Ti Top Island, for the best views of Ha Long Bay. The top of Ti Top Island offers that iconic photo of docked ships, beautiful water, and islands as far as the eye can see. If interested in getting off the cruise ship, many ships will dock at Surprise Cave. Surprise Cave is the largest cave at Ha Long Bay and lives up to its name.
While visiting Ha Long Bay, most visitors will book through a travel agent and therefore have a set itinerary. The itinerary does include options, for example once at Ti Top Island, there is the option to hike to the top of the island to the observation deck or swim at the beach below. Although it is possible to achieve both, it is recommended to hike Ti Top Island for amazing views of Ha Long Bay.
Some of the vendors at Ti Top Island and surrounding areas can be pushy and guilt trip visitors to buy stuff. Do not feel obligated to buy anything if you do not want to.
Day trips and overnight trips for Ha Long Bay can be booked online through sites like Viator and Get Your Guide. There are also many agencies in Hanoi that offer tours to Ha Long Bay.
When to Visit Ha Long Bay: Ha Long Bay is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. The rainy season around Ha Long Bay is from May until October. Although heavy rainfall can occur, it is still a beautiful time to visit. The best conditions are around the dry season which is generally from November to April.
How to Get to Ha Long Bay: If visiting Hanoi, the best way to travel to Ha Long Bay is by tour company. Depending on the tour company, it will include transportation from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.
Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay: If staying overnight in Ha Long Bay, it is best to book a cruise ship that allows overnight stay. These cruise ships are equipped with cabins.
4. Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam
Contributed by Sophie at ‘Delightful Travel Notes’
Lan Ha Bay is part of Cat Ba Archipelago located in the northern coastal region of Vietnam. It lies to the south of Ha Long Bay, and the scenery is just as mesmerizing. Since Lan Ha is generally less crowded than Ha Long Bay, visitors have been coming here for a more tranquil experience in recent years. The bay boasts a stunning landscape with countless limestone islands and emerald waters.
A cruise through Lan Ha Bay allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the majestic karst landscape. For adventurous travellers, kayaking in the bay offers not only a close-up look at the limestones but also an exciting opportunity to explore hidden nooks. Another popular activity is visiting fishing villages for a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this coastal region.
The best way to enjoy Lan Ha Bay’s beauty is by taking an overnight cruise. Check the cruise itinerary carefully to see what is included. Many cruises include activities such as kayaking, cooking classes, and visits to Cat Ba Island.
When to Visit Lan Ha Bay: You can visit Lan Ha Bay any time throughout the year, except when there is a tropical storm. The best time is generally November to April when the weather is milder. If you don’t mind the heat and humidity, the summer months are actually not bad.
How to Get to Lan Ha Bay: The easiest way to visit Lan Ha Bay is to travel to Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh and then embark on an overnight cruise. Cat Ba Island is also a popular jumping off point for both day cruises and multi-night cruises to Lan Ha Bay.
Where to Stay in Lan Ha Bay: Heritage Line cruises in Lan Ha Bay are top-tier options with beautiful accommodations, excellent service, and an intimate atmosphere. Depending on your schedule, you can choose a one-night itinerary on Ginger Ship or a two-night itinerary on Ylang Ship.
5. Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
As the largest island in Halong Bay, Cat Ba offers great views of limestone karsts that rise majestically from the turquoise waters. The most popular activity in the area is to take a Lan Ha Bay boat tour and go kayaking to get up close and personal with their awe-inspiring beauty. You will paddle through hidden caves, swim to white-sand beaches, and see charming fishing villages and fish farms where you can immerse yourself in the local culture
Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the presence of Cat Ba National Park on the island. This protected area is home to lush forests, diverse ecosystems, caves, viewpoints and rare wildlife species. Embark on a hike through the park’s trails, surrounded by verdant greenery and the sounds of nature.
If relaxation is what you seek, enjoy a day at one of the three Cat Ba Island beaches. The island’s beaches offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing you to unwind and soak up the natural beauty surrounding you.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Cat Ba Island offers thrilling outdoor activities such as kayaking and rock climbing. Grab a paddle and navigate through hidden lagoons and secret caves as you explore Halong Bay’s mesmerizing landscapes from a different perspective. If you’re up for a challenge, try your hand at rock climbing on one of the island’s many cliffs under expert guidance.
Best Time to Visit Cat Ba: The best time to visit Cat Ba Island is during the months of April to October, when the weather is warm and the seas are calm. This allows visitors to fully enjoy the beautiful beaches, go swimming, and engage in various water activities such as kayaking and snorkelling.
How to Get to Cat Ba: To visit Cat Ba Island, you can take a ferry from Hai Phong or a speedboat from Halong Bay. Both options offer scenic views during the journey and are convenient ways to reach the island. There are also many buses which will take you directly to the island from Hanoi and Ninh Binh.
Where to Stay in Cat Ba: Cat Ba Island Hotel is a great recommendation for budget travellers, and if you are looking to splurge, say at the Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort.
6. Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Contributed by Michael at ‘Time Travel Turtle’
The city of Ninh Binh, just south of Hanoi, is the base to explore the region’s incredible landscapes, often described as the ‘Inland Ha Long Bay’.
From amongst a network of waterways and rice paddies, large limestone karst peaks rise up to form twisted dramatic shapes, with steep vertical cliffs covered in lush green plants. On some of the mountains are temples and pagodas, built by the communities who tend the rice paddies along the valleys.
The best way to experience the scenery here is on a Trang An boat tour . Using just a pair of oars, your guide will take you on a peaceful ride for a couple of hours on a small wooden boat, starting on wide waterways framed by mountains, before coming into narrow inlets and even through caves.
As well as doing the boat tour, it’s worth renting a bicycle and riding along the trails that lead through the farms of rice paddies to temples, local villages, and viewpoints across the stunning landscape.
When to Visit Ninh Binh: The weather is best in the final months of the dry season between March to May. But there’s more to see during the harvest season in October.
How to Get to Ninh Binh: The train is the easiest way to reach Ninh Binh, with several departures each day from Hanoi offering direct trips that take just over two hours.
Where to Stay in Ninh Binh: It’s all about the landscapes here, and the beautiful Trang An Ecolodge is set right on the water surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks.
7. Tam Coc, Vietnam
Tam Coc, often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land” is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. One of the best ways to explore this area is by taking a Tam Coc boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. As you glide through the calm waters, you’ll be surrounded by stunning karst mountains and lush greenery. The boat ride takes you through a series of caves, which adds an element of adventure to your journey.
Another highlight of visiting Tam Coc is the opportunity to witness the picturesque rice paddies that stretch as far as the eye can see. The vibrant green fields create a stunning contrast against the towering limestone cliffs. It’s truly a sight to behold and offers a unique glimpse into rural life in Vietnam.
While exploring Tam Coc, don’t miss out on visiting Bich Dong Pagoda, situated amidst this captivating landscape. This ancient pagoda dates back to the 15th Century and is nestled within a mountain cave complex. To reach the pagoda, you’ll need to climb up several stone steps while being surrounded by lush vegetation. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Tam Coc’s natural beauty.
Exit45 Travel Top Tip: The Banana Tree Hostel right in the centre of town is a great place to grab some food and has a great atmosphere at night with lots of happy hour drink deals.
Best Time to Visit Tam Coc: The best time to visit Tam Coc is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant and there is less chance of rainfall, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beautiful landscapes and take part in outdoor activities such as boat tours and hiking.
How to Get to Tam Coc: To get to Tam Coc, you can take a bus, train to Ninh Binh and then a taxi, or hire a private car from Hanoi. The journey takes around two to three hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Where to Stay in Tam Coc: When visiting Tam Coc, there are several accommodation options available for tourists. Some popular choices include the Tam Coc Garden Resort, which offers comfortable rooms and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, and Lys Homestay (this is where we stayed and loved it), a cozy and affordable option located near the Tam Coc pier.
8. Phong Nha, Vietnam
Contributed by Jackie Szeto and Justin Huynh at ‘Life of Doing’
Phong Nha is a small town in Central Vietnam home of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
It’s an ideal place to visit for those who love outdoor adventures. The top things to do are exploring caves, trekking through the National Park, and doing water activities.
Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave are two popular caves accessible to the public. Paradise Cave is a long cave at 31 kilometres (19.2 miles), but only the first kilometre (.6 miles) is open to the public. Phong Nha Cave requires a short boat ride to the cave, and then visitors can walk through the cave.
For those who enjoy trekking, consider visiting Son Doong Cave. It’s the world’s largest cave at 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) and has tons of stalagmites to check out. This is a 6 day/5 night trek and costs $3000 USD per person.
But there is a shorter 2 day/1 night trek that does the first portion of Son Doong Cave. It’s called Hang En Cave and everyone sleeps overnight in the cave. The cost is USD $330 per person.
Top Tip: For any day trips outside the main town, consider renting a motorbike or bicycle or hiring a driver.
When to Visit Phong Nha: Any time from December to September. October and November are the rainy season, so the town experiences flooding.
How to Get to Phong Nha: Take a domestic flight to Dong Hoi Airport and then take a taxi, private car, or bus to Phong Nha town.
Where to Stay in Phong Nha: Victory Roads Villa is located in Phong Nha town and has an on-site restaurant and pool. The restaurant serves delicious pizzas and Western-style food.
9. Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam
Contributed by Lexi at ‘Wildlife Seeing’
The Ha Giang loop is found in the north of Vietnam and passes through rice fields, steep switchbacks, pretty viewpoints and the countryside. The 3-4 day loop begins in Ha Giang and is most commonly done on a motorbike either as a self-drive trip or on the back of a local guide’s motorbike.
Despite being off the normal tourist trail, the Ha Giang loop is definitely something worth doing. The drive itself is an adventure, and the views over the valleys, villages and rivers are breathtaking.
The highlights of the loop include the Quan Ba Lookout. From the top of the Quan Ba Pass you get a pretty view over the twin mountains of Quan Ba, fields and the town. The Tham Luong Waterfall is another highlight. The waterfall is gorgeous for swimming and jumping into. Apart from that, the switchbacks are impressive to look at from above, as well as the view from above the Nho Quo River.
It’s recommended to not drive yourself, and instead book a tour on the back of a local’s motorbike to do the loop. This way you can focus on looking around rather than focusing on driving. The switchbacks and the road quality in general can be a bit difficult, although it is possible to do on your own – just make sure you take it slow and have a plan.
Top Tip: My top tip is to pack extra camera batteries. The views are amazing and the days are filled with driving and stopping at viewpoints so don’t get caught with a dead camera.
When to Visit the Ha Giang Loop: January to March is the best time to visit as the weather is mostly dry these months.
How to Get to Ha Giang: Catch an overnight bus from either Ninh Binh or Hanoi to get to the starting point, Ha Giang. Alternatively, you can also catch a day bus.
Where to Stay in Ha Giang: QT Guesthouse is a good option as they have both dorms and private rooms, and you can take a tour or hire bikes from them.
10. Mai Chau, Vietnam
Contributed by Annelies at ‘Travelers & Dreamers’
Mai Chau in Vietnam is a region in the north of the country known for its stunning natural beauty. It consists of a collection of villages in a lush valley surrounded by towering mountains, rice paddies, and serene countryside.
The region is home to several ethnic minority groups, primarily the White Thai people. The town is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with friendly villagers, and learn about their traditional way of life, including handicrafts, music, and dance.
The best things to do in Mai Chau are hiking and cycling. There are many beautiful natural sights in the area that are easily reachable on foot like the Chieu Cave and the Na Meo terraced rice fields. A little further out of town and easily reached by motorbike are more great sights and attractions like Hoa Binh Lake, Goc Lao Waterfall, Nang Waterfall, and local hot springs.
Top Tip: A top tip for visiting this region is to not stay in a hotel, but to experience the way of life of the White Thai by staying in a local guesthouse or a homestay. In the evening, travellers staying in the homestay are gathered around a large table at which they can enjoy a freshly prepared dinner. For White Thais, it is very important that you feel at home and you become a part of their family.
When to Visit Mai Chau: The best time to visit Mai Chau depends on the colour of the rice fields. If you want to see them green and fresh, visit Mai Chau in February or August. The best time to visit Mai Chau however, is from March to May and September to November. During those periods, the weather is nice and warm and the rice fields turn a golden-yellow colour just before harvesting.
How to Get to Mai Chau: The best way to reach Mai Chau is by bus. It takes about three hours from Hanoi and Mai Chau-bound buses leave the capital city multiple times a day.
Where to Stay in Mai Chau: The best place to stay in Mai Chau is Little Mai Chau Homestay. This is a cute homestay with a Thai family in lovely bamboo / wooden bungalows overlooking the rice fields.
11. Cao Bang, Vietnam
Contributed by Jackie Szeto and Justin Huynh at ‘Life of Doing’
Cao Bang is a beautiful place to visit in Northern Vietnam. There are many incredible things to see in Cao Bang as the area is known for its high mountains, limestone karsts, caves, and waterfalls.
Ban Gioc Waterfall is a famous multi-tiered waterfall shared by Vietnam and China. On Vietnam’s side, there is a smaller waterfall and the shared larger multi-tiered waterfall. On China’s side, there is an escalator on the mountain, so visitors see an aerial view of the larger waterfall. Vietnam and China have small boats to get close to the waterfall. There is a pagoda near the waterfall to see the waterfall from a higher view.
If visitors are riding a motorbike from Ha Giang to Cao Bang (or vice versa), consider driving through the Me Pia Pass. There are 14 switchbacks along the National Highway 4A, so it’s quite an experience driving through them. There is a short hike to see the top viewpoint of the Pass.
Visiting God’s Eye Mountain is another cool place to visit. It’s an open area with a lake and is used for overnight camping. The mountain has a giant hole so it looks like an eye.
Top Tip: Many of the attractions are far from the city centre, so factor in the travel time. For example, heading to Ban Gioc Waterfall from the city centre takes at least 2 hours one way.
When to Visit Cao Bang: Cao Bang can be visited at any time of the year. Spring season (March to April) or fall season (September to October) will have nicer weather and no rain.
How to Get to Cao Bang: Take a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Cao Bang, and then rent a motorbike to travel around.
Where to Stay in Cao Bang: Stay at Primrose Homestay. It’s in a central location as it’s only a block away from the night market and restaurants.
12. Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Vietnam
Contributed by Karla at ‘Colorful Journeys’
If you’re looking to explore Vietnam’s nature but want something more unique and away from the crowds, then Pu Luong Nature Reserve should be on your list!
Pu Luong’s natural beauty includes terraced rice fields, hiking trails, caves, and waterfalls. It’s a nature lover’s dream come true, and it is only 4 hours away from the bustling streets of Hanoi.
It is a great place to relax and unwind but there are also plenty of outdoor activities you can enjoy. Go trekking with friendly locals and explore the ethnic villages scattered throughout the mountainside or discover Pu Luong’s trademark – the iconic water wheels.
If you’re feeling adventurous, head over to Kho Muong Village and visit the Doi Cave or make your way to Hieu waterfalls for a refreshing dip after a day of trekking.
Top Tip: Head to the cafe named ‘Coffee View‘ on Google Maps in Don Village. Grab a drink and sit on the patio to enjoy the best view of the terraced fields in Pu Luong.
When to Visit Pu Luong: Though you can visit Pu Luong year-round, March to May or September to November offer the best weather for outdoor activities.
How to Get to Pu Luong: The best way to reach Pu Luong is to take a minibus that departs daily from Hanoi.
Where to Stay in Pu Luong: With plenty of ethnic villages and authentic homestays to choose from, we highly recommend staying at Tai Dam Homestay. It is located in a quieter part of Hieu village and offers a peaceful setting with views of the rice fields.
Best Places in Central Vietnam to Visit
Are you planning a holiday in Central Vietnam? Check out our list of the best places to visit in Central Vietnam for an opportunity to see some new and exciting destinations.
13. Hoi An, Vietnam
Contributed by Cynthia at ‘Sharing the Wander’
Hoi An is a beautiful old trading port town that has been preserved and now has an ancient town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hoi An is known for its colourful paper and silk lanterns, and the full moon lantern festival that occurs once a month. You can release a wish candle into the river as you soak in all the colourful lanterns.
Hoi An is also known for having the best bahn mi sandwiches in Vietnam (supposedly due to the blend of rice flour they use), as well as other local food specialties like Cau Lau (noodle and pork dish) the best tailors, and mix of Vietnamese and Chinese culture.
If you are looking for amazing beaches, An Bang Beach is less than 3 miles from the centre of Old Town Hoi An, and has award-winning clean, sandy beaches and warm water. An Bang is also known for its nightlife, with an emphasis on live music at many of the restaurants and bars.
Top Tips:
- Hoi An gets very hot during the day, so plan to be out in the morning and again in the later afternoon to enjoy your time in Hoi An.
- Don’t miss a chance to cruise out onto the river and try a round basket boat! You can also try your hand at crab fishing from these traditional boats.
- Head to the “Lantern Lady” to make your own silk lantern! The ladies here will check your work and make sure you do it correctly, though it does take some patience.
When to Visit Hoi An: The best time to visit Hoi An in between March and September, when the weather is hot and mostly dry. Starting in October, the rainy season begins, and lasts until February.
How to Get to Hoi An: The easiest way to get to Hoi An is a flight to Da Nang Airport. Da Nang is the nearest large city to Hoi An, an easy 45 minute drive away. There are daily flights to both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from DaNang, as well as to international cities.
Where to Stay in Hoi An: Hoi An TNT Villa is a great choice, it’s just outside the Old Town which means it’s a bit quieter, and has a lovely outdoor pool. Its within easy walking distance of everything you might want to do in Hoi An’s Ancient Town.
14. Hue, Vietnam
Contributed by Shweta at ‘Zest in a Tote’
Hue was at one time the capital city from 1802 to 1945. It was built by the Nguyen emperors. The imperial city (or the old town) of Hue is one of the best day trips from Da Nang in Central Vietnam, especially if you want cultural immersion.
The top attraction in Hue is the vast 19th Century Citadel, with its palaces, moat around the complex and thick stone walls. Vietnam’s last royal family stayed in the palaces within this complex. Another major attraction is a Buddhist Temple, Thien Mu Pagoda. There are more than 100 structures in the imperial city so it gets overwhelming after some time. But the Citadel and the Pagoda itself would take 2 to 3 hours to be viewed.
Top Tip: Remember while visiting Hue to wear comfortable walking shoes, carry water to keep yourself hydrated and protect yourself against the strong sun.
When to Visit Hue: The springtime months from February until April are the best time to visit Hue due to the pleasant climate and no rains. We visited in June and the sun was scorching.
How to Get to Hue: Da Nang in Central Vietnam is connected to other cities in Vietnam via domestic flight, train and bus. You can take a day trip to visit Hue from Da Nang.
Where to Stay in Hue: Most tourists stay in Da Nang at one of the beach resorts, or in Hoi An to enjoy the car-free town. We stayed at the Four Seasons Nam Hai in Da Nang and did a day trip to Hue.
15. Da Nang, Vietnam
Contributed by Simon at ‘Backpack Moments’
Da Nang is an up-and-coming tourism hotspot in Central Vietnam. The city has grown considerably over the past 10 years. It’s shiny, it’s glamorous, it’s modern, but it has retained some of its original coastal city charm with its old temples, beautiful beaches, and traditional Vietnamese streets.
Moreover, there are plenty of opportunities for day trips, including the refreshing Ba Na Hills (the one with the super Instagrammable bridge held by a giant stone hand) and the quaint Hoi An, unique with its preserved traditional architecture.
In Da Nang, make sure to visit the Lady Buddha statue – the largest Buddha in Vietnam. Overlooking the bay, this blindingly-white statue is proof of the Vietnamese’s piety and is the best viewpoint in the city. Next to the statue is the Linh Ung Pagoda, which is equally fascinating and impressive.
On the other side of the city, go to Marble Mountain – a set of 4 mounts with ancient temples, cave shrines, pagodas, and statues built on top with views in all directions!
Top Tip: For a unique experience, stay in Da Nang over the weekend to see real fireballs at the Dragon Bridge Fire Show. The 666-meter-long bridge is in the shape of a dragon that spews and sprays real fire and water in the sky above onlookers.
When to Visit Da Nang: The best time to visit Da Nang is between January and August to avoid the rainy season.
How to Get to Da Nang: The city has an international airport with connections to Thailand, Malaysia, and Taiwan, as well as domestic flights to both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, countless buses and trains connect Da Nang to the rest of the country.
Where to Stay in Da Nang: An awesome hotel to stay at is Novotel Da Nang, as it’s right in the middle of all the action, close to tens of fantastic bars and restaurants.
16. Nha Trang, Vietnam
Contributed by Bec at ‘Wyld Family Travel’
Nha Trang is a beautiful beach resort town and it has so much to offer visitors to Vietnam.
Known as the seafood capital of Vietnam, you will find many of the local restaurants around Nha Trang city will have delicious local dishes that they make to perfection. But don’t worry if you don’t like seafood you can get all sorts of fine local cuisine that will delight your taste buds! You will find plenty of ex-pats calling Nha Trang home so you can even get some of the best foreign cuisine from places like Greece, Germany, France and even Turkey!
Nha Trang is one o
