Vietnam is a country of breathtaking diversity, offering everything from mist-shrouded mountains and emerald bays to ancient towns and dynamic megacities. Planning your Vietnam travel can be exciting, but with so many incredible places vying for a spot on your itinerary, where do you even begin?
To help you plan, we've curated a list of 15 top places Vietnam has to offer. These Vietnam destinations showcase the best of the country's culture, history, natural beauty, and adventure, making them perfect additions to any trip, especially for first-time visitors.
The thousand-year-old capital is the cultural heart of Vietnam. Visit Vietnam's political centre and explore the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter, serene Hoan Kiem Lake, historic Temple of Literature, and the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. Hanoi is famed for its incredible street food and vibrant atmosphere.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam's most iconic sights. Thousands of towering limestone karsts draped in greenery rise dramatically from emerald waters. The best way to experience Ha Long Bay is on an overnight cruise, kayaking through lagoons and exploring mystical caves.
Nestled high in the northern mountains, Sapa offers dramatic landscapes of cascading rice terraces and is home to diverse ethnic minority groups (like the H'mong and Dao). It's a top destination for trekking, experiencing local culture, and escaping the heat.
Often called "Ha Long Bay on land," Ninh Binh boasts a similar landscape of stunning limestone karsts rising from rivers and rice paddies. Take a boat trip through Tam Coc or Trang An (UNESCO site) to explore caves and soak in the serene, rural beauty just a couple of hours from Hanoi.
For the adventurous traveller, Ha Giang province offers some of Vietnam's most spectacular, rugged mountain scenery. Famous for the legendary Ha Giang Loop motorbike route, it's a journey through dramatic passes, deep valleys (like the Nho Que River valley), and remote ethnic villages.
The former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue sits astride the Perfume River. Explore the vast, moated Imperial Citadel, discover the elaborate tombs of Nguyen Dynasty emperors scattered along the river, and savour the city's unique and refined cuisine.
Vietnam's third-largest city, Da Nang, is a modern, dynamic coastal hub known for its long sandy beaches (My Khe), iconic Dragon Bridge, and proximity to the Marble Mountains. It serves as an excellent base for exploring Central Vietnam.
Step back in time in the enchanting, lantern-lit ancient town of Hoi An (UNESCO site). This beautifully preserved former trading port charms visitors with its colourful shophouses, skilled tailors, delicious food scene, and romantic riverside setting. A must-visit on any Vietnam itinerary.
Home to some of the world's most spectacular cave systems, including the planet's largest cave, Son Doong. Phong Nha offers incredible caving adventures (from easy walks to multi-day expeditions), jungle trekking, and stunning karst landscapes within this UNESCO-recognised park.
A bustling coastal city famed for its long, sandy beach, clear turquoise waters, and excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities around nearby islands. Nha Trang also offers lively nightlife, seafood restaurants, and relaxing mud baths.
Known as the "City of Eternal Spring" thanks to its cool, temperate climate, Da Lat is a charming mountain retreat. Surrounded by pine forests, lakes, and waterfalls, it's popular for outdoor activities, coffee plantations, unique architecture (like the Crazy House), and romantic getaways.
A coastal resort town famous for its unique red and white sand dunes, where visitors can try sandboarding. Mui Ne is also a major hub for kitesurfing and windsurfing thanks to its steady winds, and boasts a relaxed fishing village atmosphere.
Vietnam's largest city and southern economic hub, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) pulses with energy. Explore French colonial architecture, delve into history at the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace, visit bustling Ben Thanh Market, and experience the vibrant street food and nightlife.
South of HCMC lies the "rice bowl" of Vietnam, a vast delta crisscrossed by rivers and canals. Explore the Mekong Delta by boat, visit colourful floating markets (like Cai Rang), wander through fruit orchards, and experience the unique riverine way of life.
Vietnam's largest island, Phu Quoc, is a tropical paradise famed for its stunning white-sand beaches (like Sao Beach and Long Beach), clear waters, lush interior, and relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect place to unwind at the end of your Vietnam travel adventure, offering resorts, snorkelling, night markets, and pepper farms.
From the northern mountains to the southern delta, Vietnam offers a world of wonders to discover. Planning a trip to incorporate these must-visit spots can be complex, coordinating transport, accommodation, and tours.
Let Vielokal Travel help! We specialise in creating tailor-made Vietnam package tours that showcase the best Vietnam destinations. Whether you dream of cruising Ha Long Bay, wandering Hoi An, or trekking in Sapa, we can design the perfect itinerary for you.
Contact us here to start planning your unforgettable Vietnam adventure!
