Planning a trip to Vietnam? Discover the best places to visit from north to south, including stunning nature, cultural sites, and vibrant cities.
Welcome to Vietnam!
Vietnam is a beautiful and exciting country in Southeast Asia. It’s known for its stunning natural landscapes, delicious food, warm hospitality, and rich culture. From the peaceful mountains in the north to the busy cities and sunny beaches in the south, Vietnam has something for everyone.
If this is your first trip to Vietnam, you might wonder where to go and what to see. Don’t worry — this guide covers the top 10 destinations in Vietnam, along with travel tips to help you plan your journey.
1. Hanoi – The Timeless Capital
Hanoi is where tradition meets modern life.
Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most famous landmarks in Hanoi and a peaceful spot in the middle of the busy city. Locals come here early in the morning to walk, exercise, or simply enjoy the fresh air. Around the lake, you’ll find big trees, benches, and shaded paths that make it a perfect place to relax. In the center of the lake stands Turtle Tower, a small historic structure that lights up beautifully at night.
Across a red wooden bridge called The Huc Bridge, you’ll find Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful pagoda on a small island. This temple is dedicated to important Vietnamese heroes and scholars. Visitors often stop here to take photos, enjoy the view, or learn about local history and traditions. If you're lucky, you might even spot an elderly group practicing Tai Chi nearby, adding to the peaceful charm of the lake.
Hoan Kiem Lake is not only a place for sightseeing — it’s a place that tells the story of Hanoi itself. During weekends, the streets around the lake become a walking zone, full of street performers, families, and children playing traditional games. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning coffee by the lake or watching the city lights reflect on the water at night, Hoan Kiem Lake offers a moment of calm and connection in the heart of the capital.
Peaceful morning at Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi
2. Ha Long Bay – Natural Wonder of the World
Ha Long Bay is one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. It is famous for its green water and thousands of limestone islands that rise straight from the sea. The name “Ha Long” means “Descending Dragon,” and local legends say dragons created the bay to protect Vietnam.
One of the best ways to explore the bay is by cruise boat. You can spend one or two nights on the water, enjoying sunrise and sunset surrounded by nature. Many tours include activities like kayaking, visiting caves, and swimming in quiet lagoons.
Whether you're relaxing on the deck or taking a boat through a cave, Ha Long Bay feels magical and calm. It’s a great place for nature lovers and those who want to escape the noise of the city.
Sailing through the magical scenery of Ha Long Bay.
3. Sapa – Mountains and Ethnic Culture
Sapa is a small town in the mountains of northern Vietnam. It’s well known for its green rice terraces, cool weather, and friendly ethnic people like the H’mong and Dao. The landscape is very different from the rest of Vietnam — with high hills, misty mornings, and fresh air.
Travelers come to Sapa to go trekking. You can walk through rice fields, visit local homes, and sleep in a homestay with local families. The views are stunning, especially during rice season (May–September).
Sapa also has a market full of colorful clothes, handmade gifts, and local food. If you want to experience a different side of Vietnam — quiet, cultural, and close to nature — Sapa is the place to go.
Sapa's iconic rice terraces in the misty mountains.
4. Hue – Ancient Imperial City
Hue is a city full of history. It was once the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945). Today, visitors can explore the Imperial City, old palaces, and royal tombs that show the power and beauty of the past.
The Imperial Citadel is a large area with ancient walls, gates, and gardens. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important historic places in Vietnam. Not far from the citadel are the royal tombs, each with its own design and story.
You can also take a boat ride on the Perfume River, visit Thien Mu Pagoda, and try bun bo Hue, a spicy noodle soup that comes from the city. Hue is peaceful and full of culture — perfect for travelers who love history.
The historic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
5. Hoi An – Charming Ancient Town
Hoi An is a small, charming town in central Vietnam. It is famous for its yellow-painted houses, quiet streets, and colorful lanterns. At night, the Old Town shines with lanterns hanging across the river and in every shop window.
You can take a walk by the river, ride a bicycle through rice fields, or relax in a coffee shop with a view. Hoi An is also a great place to have custom clothes made — many visitors come here to visit tailors.
Don’t miss the night market, where you can buy handmade souvenirs and try local snacks like banh mi or white rose dumplings. Hoi An is romantic, peaceful, and one of the most loved cities in Vietnam.
Hoi An’s magical lantern festival lights up the river
6. Da Nang – City by the Beach
Da Nang is a clean and growing city between Hoi An and Hue. It has beautiful beaches like My Khe Beach, great food, and modern buildings. It’s less crowded than other big cities and perfect for relaxing.
A popular place to visit is Ba Na Hills, where you can see the amazing Golden Bridge, held by two giant hands. You reach it by riding one of the world’s longest cable cars! Da Nang also has the Marble Mountains, five small hills with caves and pagodas inside.
At night, the city lights up along the Han River, with colorful bridges like the Dragon Bridge that breathes fire on weekends. Da Nang is great for both beach time and day trips.
The famous Golden Bridge, one of Da Nang’s top attractions
7. Nha Trang – Sun, Sea, and Relaxation
Nha Trang is one of the top beach cities in Vietnam. It has clear blue water, white sand, and sunny weather almost all year. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing with a drink by the sea.
You can take a boat tour to visit nearby islands, go diving, or relax in a mud bath spa. For those who love history, the Po Nagar Cham Towers offer a look into the ancient Champa culture.
The city also has many restaurants and seafood spots where you can enjoy fresh shrimp, crab, and more. Nha Trang is great for couples, families, or solo travelers who love the ocean.
Relax by the beach in Nha Trang
8. Da Lat – The City of Eternal Spring
Da Lat is a city in the mountains, known for its cool weather and romantic scenery. It’s often called the “City of Eternal Spring” because of its fresh air and flower gardens. The city was built by the French in the 1900s, and many villas still remain.
You can walk around Xuan Huong Lake, visit the Crazy House, or explore colorful flower fields. Da Lat is also famous for coffee farms, fresh strawberries, and soft baguettes from its French past.
If you love nature, take a trip to Elephant Waterfall, Langbiang Mountain, or go canyoning down waterfalls for adventure. Da Lat is peaceful and perfect for those who enjoy cool weather and quiet beauty.
Cool weather and colorful blooms in Da Lat
9. Ho Chi Minh City – Energy and Excitement
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city. It’s full of life, with busy markets, tall buildings, motorbikes everywhere, and exciting nightlife. It’s a mix of modern and traditional Vietnam.
Start by visiting the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country’s past, then shop at Ben Thanh Market, and stop for Vietnamese iced coffee on the sidewalk. Don’t miss the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, both built by the French.
At night, walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, try local dishes like com tam (broken rice), and enjoy the city lights. Saigon is loud, lively, and full of stories.
The energy of Saigon never sleeps
10. The Mekong Delta – Life on the Water
The Mekong Delta is in southern Vietnam, where the big Mekong River meets the sea. People here live close to the water — many houses, markets, and schools are on boats or near canals.
A great way to see the area is by boat tour. You can visit floating markets, taste tropical fruits, and see how rice noodles are made. Places like Cai Rang and Vinh Long offer real-life views of Vietnamese farming and fishing life.
You can also stay in a homestay with a local family, eat home-cooked food, and enjoy the peaceful countryside. The Mekong Delta is slow, friendly, and full of color.
Experience the floating markets of the Mekong Delta
Final Thoughts
Vietnam is full of unforgettable experiences — from peaceful mountains to busy cities, from ancient temples to beautiful beaches. Whether you have one week or a whole month, these top places will help you make the most of your journey.
Travel Tips
Visa: Many travelers need an e-visa before arrival.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND).
Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler, drier weather.
Plan Your Trip Now
Ready to explore Vietnam? Start with the destinations above and create your dream itinerary. From north to south, every part of this country has a story waiting for you.
