Verdant-green rice fields, world-renowned coffee, bustling megacities, and a plethora of historic sites – Vietnam is the perfect place to begin exploring South Asia. Each corner of the country has something unique to offer, so we thought of rounding up on the most unique places to visit in Vietnam to make things easier for you.
Here are the 10 best places to visit in Vietnam. From Phu Quoc to Da Nang and Hanoi, keep reading to know about the best places in Vietnam!
Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam, In No Particular Order
1. Ho Chi Minh City
Bustling metropolis – a melting pot of Southeast Asian culture
As one of the most significant metropolitan cities in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City holds paramount importance in the country.
From its bustling markets to quaint cafes, Ho Chi Minh offers a taste of Vietnam in every single lane and corner you visit.
Plus, the city has been a witness to many of the historical events that shaped Vietnam. This, paired with the rich cultural heritage of the city makes it a must-visit destination in the country.
It’s fast-paced, vibrant, and perfect for travelers of all kinds – be it families or solo backpackers.
2. Ha Long Bay
UNESCO-recognized natural limestone islands
Do we even need to elaborate on Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
As one of the best places to visit in Vietnam with family, fellow travelers, or even solo, Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s best kept gems.
Ha Long Bay is known for its pristine blue waters and emerald-blue limestone islands submerged in these waters. Over the years, Ha Long Bay has become quite popular among tourists, but trust us, it is not a tourist trap – it is worth a visit!
There are day cruises and group tours available from Hanoi and these often include sightseeing, meals, and guided tours.
3. Quảng Phú Cầu
The village of colorful incense sticks
If you’re visiting Vietnam, we highly recommend going on a day-trip to Quảng Phú Cầu from Hanoi. This small village is known for its ancient incense-making traditions that have become especially popular among tourists in recent years.
We recommend opting for guided tours when visiting Quảng Phú Cầu as it will help you understand the incense-making process in detail, plus you’ll get to interact with the local artisans.
The mere sight of thousands of incense sticks laid out in the sun makes for great Instagram pictures, and we bet you’ll fall in love with it!
4. Sapa
The best mountainside retreat in Vietnam
If you’re a mountain person, Sapa is the perfect place to be in Vietnam. Sapa is known for its emerald green landscapes, neatly laid out rice fields, and views that will take your breath away.
You can not only stroll through the rice fields and meadows here, but also go on trekking and hiking in the nearby woods and mountains.
Sapa is not a destination that’s made for a hustled day-trip, it is a destination made for hitting a pause and slowly exploring it over a few days.
5. Hoi An
Vibrant, photogenic, tourist-friendly city
Arguably the most photogenic port city in Vietnam, Hoi An is a haven for those wanting to explore Vietnam’s rich culture.
Also known as the ‘City of Lanterns’, Hoi An is characterized by its vibrant street markets, colorful facades, and a vibe that’s truly unmatched.
Many tourists visit Hoi An especially for getting a photo-op under thousands of lanterns – but there’s so much more to do in Hoi An.
From exploring the street food to riding boats in the canals here, Hoi An is a traveler’s paradise that feels like straight out of a movie set.
6. Da Nang
Buzzing beach town known for its nightlife
If Thailand has a Krabi, then Vietnam has a Da Nang. This vibrant beach town in central Vietnam is the perfect place for those looking to experience the buzzing nightlife of Vietnam.
Da Nang is home to lively beaches, seafront restaurants, and cafes as well as sensational performances like fire breathing shows and group dances. Plus, it is a great destination for couples, solo travelers, and backpackers who are always up for some adventure.
7. Hanoi
Vietnam’s capital and the most tourist-friendly city
Most first-timers visiting Vietnam begin their journey from Hanoi, arguably the most popular and most frequented tourist destination in the country.
This capital city is known for its tourist-friendly infrastructure, budget accommodations, and a vibrant culinary scene. Also, it is quite close to other major tourist attractions including Ha Long Bay.
Hanoi’s picturesque cafes, museums, restaurants, as well as the viral Train Street attract tourists from all over the world.
Perfect for beginning or ending your Vietnam trip, Hanoi is a destination that you must not skip.
8. Phu Quoc
Perfect island getaway in Vietnam
If you need an escape from the hustle and bustle of Ha Long, Ho Chi Minh, or Hanoi, Phu Quoc is the perfect destination for you. This idyllic island near Ho Chi Minh City is known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Plus, its location literally in the middle of the sea makes it the perfect weekend getaway from the mainland. Explore the island’s own national park, go on guided boat tours, try swimming and surfing, and taste the local food here. We just know you’ll love spending time in Phu Quoc!
9. Mekong River Delta
Floating markets in Southeast Asia’s longest river
The Mekong River Delta provides water to the plains of Vietnam and, in turn, fuels the agricultural economy of the country.
Now, it is a major tourist attraction, frequented by thousands of tourists annually. In the delta, tourists can see hundreds of boats that essentially serve as floating markets, selling everything from local fruits and vegetables to herbs and even seafood.
The sight of so many boats navigating their way through the waters of the Mekong River makes for a picturesque and memorable experience.
10. Lan Ha Bay
Quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination, no doubt, but it has become quite commercialized recently. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, peaceful alternative to this destination, look no further than Lan Ha Bay.
This bay in the South China Sea is close to Ha Long Bay but is much quieter and less commercialized. Go island hopping, kayaking, swimming, or simply bask in the sun to enjoy your little seaside getaway.
Visit the Cat Ba Island – go on nature trails and spend time on its beaches while you’re exploring Lan Ha Bay. Worry not, you’ll find plenty of guided tours that’ll take you to Lan Ha Bay!
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Summing Up
Did you note down these best places to visit in Vietnam?
Our listicle not only includes destinations perfect for backpackers and group travelers but also the best places to visit in Vietnam with family.
From Ha Long’s UNESCO-approved landscapes to Hanoi’s bustling chaos, each of these destinations offer a unique taste of Vietnam.
Which one’s got you the most excited?
