Vietnam is a beautiful country with lots to see and do.
It has stunning places like Sam Mountain and Ha Long Bay, as well as amazing temples and pagodas that show the skill of its people.
The rice terraces and stunning beaches also add to the country’s charm.
Whether you’re backpacking through Vietnam or visiting for a vacation, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, vibrant cities, and some of the best food in the world.
In this Vietnam travel guide, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of best places to visit in Vietnam.
Start by exploring the Old Quarter of Hanoi, where you can soak in the history and culture.
Then, head to Hoi An, known for its delicious food and beautiful garments.
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Explore the Best Places to Visit in Vietnam: Top Tourist Spots
There’s so much to see and do, so don’t rush your trip—take your time to truly experience all the amazing places to visit in Vietnam.
This guide aims to be the best Vietnam travel guide to help you make the most of your journey.
1.Da Nang
Da Nang is a beautiful city on the east coast of Vietnam, situated right between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Often called the tourist capital of South-Central Vietnam, Da Nang is a stunning place to visit, known for its beaches, museums, lively nightlife, and top-notch infrastructure.
The city is located on the coast of the South China Sea, with the Han River flowing through it, and is home to several impressive bridges.
The most famous of these is the Golden Bridge, which is held up by a sculpture of two giant hands—a sight you can’t miss.
When looking for the best places to visit in Vietnam, Da Nang offers many amazing spots.
The Marble Mountains are a must-see, featuring five mysterious limestone and marble peaks with caves, tunnels, and temples.
For those who love hiking, Bach Ma National Park, the 693-meter-tall Son Tra Mountain, and Ba Na Hills are popular choices.
If you’re interested in spiritual sites, don’t miss Phap Lam Pagoda and the 67-meter-tall Buddha Shakyamuni statue at Linh Ung Pagoda.
For relaxing by the water, My Khe Beach, Pham Van Dong Beach, Han River, and Thanh Binh Beach are ideal for seafood, surfing, and kayaking.
Even though Da Nang is a modern city, it still preserves historical treasures like the 700-year-old Phong Nam Village, Con Ga Cathedral, Cao Dai Temple, and the Imperial City Palace, one of Vietnam’s oldest forbidden cities.
To make the most of your Da Nang visit, be sure to check out Sun World Wonders, the Cham Sculpture Museum, Con Market, and the Da Nang Night Market.
2. Hanoi
Hanoi, located on the banks of the Red River in Northern Vietnam, is not only the capital of Vietnam but also one of the oldest cities in the world.
It’s known for its well-preserved colonial buildings, golden pagodas, unique museums, delicious food, fun entertainment spots, and traditional markets.
The city is a fascinating mix of French, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cultures, making it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
Hanoi’s history is deeply impactful. Some of the most amazing historical and cultural sites include the UNESCO-listed Thang Long Imperial Citadel, which served as Vietnam’s administrative center for 800 years, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the leader’s body is preserved, Perfume Pagoda, and Hoa Lo Prison Relic.
The Old Quarter and French Quarter are rich in history and culture, with courtyards and Parisian-style buildings adding to their charm.
For a peaceful break from the city’s hustle, you can visit Bach Ma Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, or take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, known for its softshell turtles and the legend of the Lake of the Restored Sword.
The main places to visit in Vietnam within Hanoi are the Old Quarter and the French Quarter.
The Old Quarter, located north of Hoan Kiem Lake, is a lively area full of narrow alleys, old buildings, busy markets, traditional shops, and street food stalls.
This part of the city is the heart and soul of Hanoi.
Hanoi mixes ancient and modern styles. Alongside its historical sites, you’ll find a growing art scene, trendy cafes, and a vibrant nightlife.
Contrary to what some might think, Hanoi isn’t just a conservative city.
From the bustling Dong Xuan Market, where you can find everything from Louis Vuitton to tasty street food, to the sleek Lotte Tower Observation Deck, with its 65 floors of glamor, Hanoi offers a modern side too.
With its historic architecture, such as balustrades and Gothic domes, monks practicing Tai Chi, charming riverside streets, tube houses, farmers’ markets, and rich culture, Hanoi beautifully reflects Vietnam’s past struggles and its vibrant present.
3. Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam, famous for its beautiful white sand beaches lined with palm and coconut trees.
As one of the best places to visit in Vietnam, this island is surrounded by clear, blue waters and lush tropical landscapes.
Located just 45 kilometers from the southern tip of Vietnam and 4 kilometers from Cambodia, it’s an ideal spot for a long weekend getaway.
Plus, if you fly directly to Phu Quoc from another country, you don’t need a visa, no matter your nationality.
But if you take a ferry from Vietnam, you’ll need a valid Vietnam visa.
Phu Quoc offers many pristine beaches like Long Beach (Bai Truong), Ong Lang Beach, and Sao Beach (Bai Sao).
Each beach has its own special charm, from peaceful relaxation to lively beach activities.
Beyond its beaches, the island is filled with dense jungles, waterfalls, and nature reserves like Phu Quoc National Park, where you can find unique plants and animals, including some rare wildlife.
If you love snorkeling, scuba diving, or fishing, Phu Quoc is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam due to its rich marine life.
The island also has hundreds of resorts, many with private beaches and everything you need to relax.
You can rent a bike to explore the island’s amazing views and try the local food. Phu Quoc is one of the few places in Vietnam where you can legally gamble.
The island also has several fishing villages and tours where you can discover Phu Quoc’s unique culture.
Plus, there are smaller islands around Phu Quoc that you can explore by kayak or boat, making it one of the top places to visit in Vietnam.
4. Sapa
Sapa, a charming town in northwest Vietnam, is perched high in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains, overlooking the beautiful terraced rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley.
Located at an elevation of 1,500 meters and near the China border, Sapa is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for trekking.
This small market town is known for offering an authentic countryside experience, making it a popular destination.
Among the top places to visit in Vietnam, Sapa stands out with its trekking spots like Dragon Jaw Mountain and Heaven’s Gate.
These areas are filled with colorful flower beds, waterfalls, tropical plants, and interesting rock formations.
If you prefer not to climb, you can take a cable car trip to Fansipan and enjoy panoramic views of the rice terraces.
After a day of exploring, relax in Sapa town with delicious Vietnamese food at Little View Restaurant, Fansipan Restaurant, or Bombay Indian Lounge.
Sapa is home to hill tribes like the Hmong, Tay, and Dao.
You can get a glimpse into their lives at Cat Cat Village, a quaint spot where you can also visit Sapa Town Park with its well-kept gardens.
Other places to visit in Vietnam include the French-Catholic Holy Rosary Church, known for its peaceful atmosphere, and the Town Hall, showcasing French architecture.
To learn more about Sapa’s history, the Cultural Museum is worth a visit.
In the town center, Quang Truong Square is a large open space where people gather, and nearby is Sapa Lake, perfect for a peaceful boating trip.
Don’t miss the chance to pick up local handicrafts and unique silver or metal trinkets at Sapa Marketplace and Cau May Street Market before heading home.
5. Hoi An
Hoi An, one of the oldest cities in Asia, is a charming town in central Vietnam that was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999.
Located south of Danang, Hoi An means ‘a peaceful meeting place’.
It’s not just culturally and historically significant but also one of the richest towns in Vietnam.
Note that Hoi An doesn’t have an airport or train station, so you’ll need to travel by road.
Visiting Hoi An feels like stepping into a living museum. The ancient architecture, centuries-old traditions, and peaceful riverside setting blend beautifully here.
The well-preserved Old Town, with its yellow-walled buildings, lantern-lit streets, and historic merchant houses, tells the story of Hoi An’s past as a lively trading port.
Hoi An also stands out as one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for its vibrant markets where artisans display their crafts.
The local food is a delightful mix of traditional Vietnamese flavors with influences from Eastern and Southeast Asia.
As evening falls, the city transforms into a magical scene with thousands of colorful lanterns lighting up the streets and waterways, especially during the lantern festival.
The Japanese and Chinese influences are evident in Hoi An’s architecture, a reminder of its past as a riverside port town.
From its rich cultural heritage to its peaceful charm, Hoi An invites travelers to explore its timeless beauty and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of its people.
For anyone looking for top places to visit in Vietnam, Hoi An is definitely a must-see.
6. Ho Chi Minh City
Popularly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in southern Vietnam and serves as the country’s financial and cultural hub.
This fast-paced city blends its rich cultural history with modern urban life.
Here, you’ll see beautiful temples and old shrines standing alongside tall skyscrapers and shopping malls.
The city is served by Tan Son Nhat International Airport, the busiest airport in Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City has come a long way since its turbulent past, especially during the Vietnam War.
Today, it’s one of the top tourist destinations in the country.
Among the best places to visit in Vietnam here are the Cu Chi and Ben Dinh Tunnels, which offer a glimpse into the city’s wartime history.
You’ll also find stunning sites like the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Opera House, and the Central Post Office, which showcase beautiful French architecture from the colonial era.
These key attractions are all located in District 1 and are close to each other.
The city’s streets are lively and full of energy, with motorbikes zipping through traffic, street vendors selling delicious food, and hidden alleys leading to unique neighborhoods.
Local markets such as Ben Thanh and Binh Tay are great for finding handicrafts, textiles, electronics, and souvenirs.
For those looking for a more modern experience, Ho Chi Minh City also offers exciting shopping malls, fine dining, and vibrant nightclubs.
7. Halong Bay
Halong Bay is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam, known for its stunning karst limestone pillars and small islets scattered in crystal blue waters.
Located in northern Vietnam, it’s the top tourist spot in this region.
The name ‘Halong’ means ‘where the dragon descends into the sea,’ and part of Halong Bay was named a World Heritage Site in 1994. Halong City is the main gateway to the bay.
To explore this beautiful area, many visitors choose cruises or day-trip boats.
These tours let you relax while gliding past the towering limestone pillars and various islets.
Some cruises also offer island stops and cave explorations. You can also visit floating villages to meet locals, taste their food, and shop for souvenirs.
Kayaking has become a popular activity here. On sunny days, you can paddle around the limestone formations and even explore some caves by kayak.
This is a must-try experience when visiting Halong Bay, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
8. Nha Trang
Nha Trang, a coastal city in southern central Vietnam, is famous for its stunning bays and beautiful beaches.
It’s one of the best places to visit in Vietnam if you’re a beach lover.
The city’s white sandy beach is a highlight, and there are also parks, sculpture gardens, bright promenades, and luxurious resorts to enjoy.
The great weather, with more sunny days than anywhere else in Vietnam, makes it perfect for activities like sailboating, kiteboarding, and scuba diving all year round.
Whether you’re a backpacker or someone looking to splurge, Nha Trang has something for you.
The streets near the shoreline are lined with small boutiques, spas, and cocktail bars.
As the seafood capital of Vietnam, the city offers some of the best seafood around, with Pulled Pork Summer Rolls being a local favorite.
At night, the streets come alive with bars and clubs where both locals and tourists party until late.
If you’re seeking a more relaxed experience, the city’s spas and mud baths are perfect for unwinding.
For a touch of culture, check out the Cham Towers, Pagodas, and Museums further inland.
These are also great places to visit in Vietnam for a calm and enjoyable experience.
9. Con Dao Islands
Con Dao is a beautiful group of 16 islands off the southern coast of Vietnam, with Con Son being the largest and the only one where people live.
Even the uninhabited islands have stunning beaches.
Once known as prison islands, Con Dao has transformed into one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
With new resorts and better transport options, it has become a popular spot for travelers.
The area is also known as Con Dao National Park, thanks to its rich biodiversity.
From June to September, the islands are a top nesting site for sea turtles, making it a fantastic beach destination.
Con Dao is not only great for its natural beauty but also for diving, with its rich marine life attracting both luxury travelers and backpackers.
So, if you’re looking for top places to visit in Vietnam, Con Dao is definitely worth checking out for its stunning beaches and resorts.
10. Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass, located between Da Nang and Hue, is often called one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
This 19 km stretch is flanked by the South China Sea on one side and the Annamite mountain ranges on the other, making it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for stunning views.
The pass is usually not crowded since most traffic takes a shorter route through the mountains.
For backpackers, it’s a perfect spot for biking or hiking, and it’s a great day trip from nearby cities like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue.
You can easily reach Hai Van Pass from Da Nang, about 28 kilometers away.
If you’re not used to Vietnam’s busy traffic, don’t worry—the road is well-maintained and not too crowded.
The scenery, with pine trees, clouds, and glimpses of the sea, is truly breathtaking.
The pass was once known as the ‘Street Without Joy’ because it connected two cities heavily impacted by the Vietnam War, but today, it’s a top destination among places to visit in Vietnam.
How To Reach Vietnam
By Air
Vietnam has five international airports that are active and ready to welcome travelers:
- Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport)
- Da Nang (Danang International Airport)
- Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport)
- Nha Trang (Cam Ranh International Airport)
- Phu Quoc Island (Phu Quoc International Airport)
You can easily fly to Vietnam from anywhere in the world with regular flights to these airports. Vietnam Airlines is the main airline for the country.
By Bus
There are regular buses that run between Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Just remember to have a valid visa for Vietnam before you go because you can’t get a visa at the border.
By Rail
You can only reach Vietnam by train from Nanning and Beijing in China. The Nanning Express stops in Hanoi, the capital, at Gia Lam station. However, taking the train is recommended only if you’re heading to the northern part of the country. The train ride can be slow and not very comfortable.
By Road
You can travel to Vietnam from any of its neighboring Indochina countries. Just remember to bring the right documents for the border officials, as visas are not available at the border.
By Water
You can reach Vietnam from Cambodia or Singapore by sea in two ways: taking a ferry or going on a cruise through the Mekong Delta.