Best places to visit in Vietnam: Top tourist spots you must see

Vietnam is a country where ancient heritage and modern life meet. It offers stunning landscapes, rich history, ethnic diversity, and delicious food - making it one of Asia’s most rewarding destinations.

This article takes you through the top destinations in Vietnam, including well-known spots and places that are less known. Every place has something special about the culture and scenery of Vietnam.

Aerial view of Ponagar tower in the Nha Trang city, Vietnam

Best places to visit in Vietnam

This guide looks closely at the top places to see in Vietnam, including cultural attractions, stunning nature and unusual experiences. You will come across useful tips and ideas to help you enjoy every trip.

You can see Vietnam’s finest side in its old capital cities, lively marketplaces, green mountain ranges and islands bathed in the sun. Anyone searching for Vietnam’s best tourist spots or unusual sights will discover them on this page.

1. Ha Long Bay: Vietnam's Natural Wonder

The UNESCO World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay is well known for its thousands of limestone islands and islets that rise high from the ocean’s surface. Often dubbed the "Descending Dragon Bay ", it’s one of Vietnam’s most iconic and visited destinations.

Things to do:

• Take a boat cruise through the limestone karsts and explore hidden grottoes.
• Kayak to secret lagoons.
• Visit floating fishing villages like Cua Van or Vung Vieng.

Travel tip: Opt for an overnight cruise to experience the sunset and sunrise over the bay - truly unforgettable.

Best time to visit: October to April for pleasant weather and clear skies.

Ha Long Bay: Vietnam's natural wonder

2. Hanoi: The cultural capital

Colonial architecture, cultural traditions and exceptional street foods can be found in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city. The Old Quarter of the city is a place full of vibrant markets, small roads and old temples.

Best places to see in Hanoi:

• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
• The Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university
• The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Why visit? Hanoi reflects the soul of the nation with its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. It’s also the gateway to the north.

Must try: Egg coffee at a lakeside café and Bun Cha - a Hanoian specialty.

Hoan Kiem Lake

3. Sapa: Mountain views & ethnic traditions

Located in the north, Sapa is known for its beautiful scenery and a variety of ethnic groups. It provides opportunities to trek around the rice fields and meet the Hmong, Dao and Tay people in their villages.

Things to explore:

• Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Indochina
• Trekking routes to villages like Lao Chai and Ta Van
• Sapa market, known for traditional handicrafts

Insider’s note: Avoid weekends to escape tourist crowds and enjoy more authentic interactions.

Aerial view of Sapa town center, Lao Cai

4. Ninh Binh: Inland Ha Long Bay

Ninh Binh is commonly called “Ha Long Bay on land” because it features limestone cliffs, peaceful rivers and ancient temples.

Key attractions:

• Tam Coc boat rides, paddled by locals using their feet
• Trang An Landscape Complex, another UNESCO site
• Bich Dong Pagoda, perched on a mountainside

Travel bonus: Ninh Binh is just 2 hours from Hanoi, making it perfect for day trips or overnight stays.

Golden rice season: Tam Coc, Bich Dong, Ninh Binh

5. Hue: Vietnam's imperial past

Once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue is steeped in royal history. The city lies along the Perfume River and houses one of Vietnam’s most impressive citadels.

• Imperial City (The Citadel)
• Thien Mu Pagoda
• Royal tombs like that of Emperor Khai Dinh

Cultural tip: Join a dragon boat cruise at dusk and enjoy traditional Vietnamese music.

Aerial view of Meridian Gate Hue at sunset in Vietnam

6. Da Nang: A coastal gem

Da Nang is situated halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and is famous for its sandy beaches and modern feel. Many local residents and foreigners love visiting it.

Top things to do:

• Relax on My Khe Beach
• Explore the Marble Mountains
• Visit the Linh Ung Pagoda with its giant Lady Buddha

Pro tip: Time your visit for the Dragon Bridge’s weekend fire and water show.

The landmark of the coastal city of Da Nang

7. Hoi An: Ancient town charm

In just 30 minutes from Da Nang, you can find Hoi An, a UNESCO town known for its pretty lanterns, shops for tailoring and peaceful riverside views.

What to explore:

• Japanese Covered Bridge
• Night market along the Thu Bon River
• Cooking classes with local chefs

Why it’s special: Hoi An remains a living museum of Vietnam’s trading past. The town's architectural fusion of Chinese, Japanese and French influences is one-of-a-kind.

A beautiful and important tourist attraction in Hoi An, Vietnam

8. Ho Chi Minh City: Urban energy

Ho Chi Minh City is the biggest city and business center in Vietnam. While locals still affectionately call it “Saigon”, the official name is Ho Chi Minh City There is a lot of action in the city, with tall buildings, motorbikes everywhere and many rooftop bars.

Key sights:

• War Remnants Museum
• Reunification Palace
• Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and street food

Foodie tip: Don’t leave without trying Banh Mi and a glass of Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da).

Aerial view of Ho Chi Minh City skyline and skyscrapers on Saigon river

9. Mekong Delta: Life on the river

The Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam is a peaceful region where daily life revolves around water. Can Tho is the region’s hub, home to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, where boats trade fruits and goods each morning. In Vinh Long, visitors can enjoy local homestays and lush fruit orchards on river islets. Ben Tre is known for its coconut-lined canals and traditional candy-making villages.

Top experiences:

• Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho
• Boat tours through palm-fringed canals
• Cycling trips around coconut plantations

Best for: Nature lovers, eco-tourists and those seeking authentic rural Vietnamese culture.

Aerial view of Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho, Vietnam

10. Phu Quoc Island: Beach paradise

Last but certainly not least, Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s tropical paradise located off the country’s southern coast.

Why visit?

• Pristine beaches like Sao Beach and Long Beach
• Snorkeling and diving in the An Thoi archipelago
• Dinh Cau Night Market for fresh seafood

Island tip: Most nationalities can enjoy visa-free travel to Phu Quoc for up to 30 days, provided they arrive directly by international flight or cruise ship and do not transit through mainland Vietnam.

The central town in south of Phu Quoc island

Vietnam travel tips for first-time visitors

Exploring Vietnam for the first time? Read these travel tips to make your trip go smoothly, be enjoyable and protect local customs. Being in Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia’s top travel spots, requires some planning to make your trip memorable.

Visa and entry requirements

• Most nationalities can apply for an e-Visa online at Vietnam E-Visa Portal.
• Citizens from ASEAN and select European countries enjoy visa exemptions for short stays.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Currency and payment

• The local currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND).
• Cash is king in rural areas, but major cities accept credit cards and e-wallets like Momo or ZaloPay.
• Currency exchange is best done at banks or licensed exchange counters.

Transportation tips

• Grab is the most reliable ride-hailing app for motorbikes and taxis. Grab operates in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. In smaller towns, local taxis or rental motorbikes may be more practical.
• Trains are great for scenic routes (e.g., Hanoi to Da Nang), while sleeper buses are budget-friendly.
• Domestic flights are affordable and time-saving, especially between the North and South.

Local etiquette and cultural norms

• Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas.
• Remove your shoes before entering homes or sacred spaces.
• Avoid public displays of affection, which can be frowned upon in conservative areas.
• A smile goes a long way—Vietnamese people are known for their warmth and hospitality.

Language tips

• The official language is Vietnamese. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but a translation app will be helpful.
• Learn a few basic phrases: "Xin chào" (Hello), "Cảm ơn" (Thank you) and "Bao nhiêu tiền?" (How much?).

Photo tips

• Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas or at temples.

By keeping these tips in mind, first-time travelers will navigate Vietnam with confidence, respect local traditions and discover why this country is among the best places to visit in Southeast Asia.

Landmark 81, the tallest building in Vietnam

Conclusion: Tourist spots in Vietnam

Vietnam brings together a variety of cultures, views and adventures. Travelling in Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City allows visitors to experience the unique aspects of Vietnam’s culture.

You should visit these places, whether you have a short or a long stay in Vietnam. Besides having amazing nature and a long history, these places also show how strong, kind and diverse the Vietnamese people are. Look into the top destinations in Vietnam and be ready to discover many places there that will move you.