Places in Vietnam is for an Amazing Vacation.
Tired of boring vacation spots? Wish you could find amazing places that your friends haven’t been to yet? Want beautiful scenery, rich culture, and amazing food all in one trip? Vietnam might be just what you’re looking for!
Vietnam has it all green rice fields, beautiful blue waters with rocky islands, busy cities, and some of the tastiest food you’ll ever eat. The best places to visit in Vietnam will give you memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’ve traveled a lot or this is your first big trip to Asia, Vietnam has plenty of wonderful surprises.
Call Gomayu Holidays today for a Vietnam vacation package just for you! We know all the best spots that most tourists never find.
Why Vietnam Should Be Your Next Vacation?
Vietnam is shaped like a long, narrow S on the map, giving it many different landscapes to explore. From misty mountains in the north to sunny beaches in the south, the places to visit in Vietnam are some of the most beautiful in all of Southeast Asia.
In the last few years, Vietnam has become the No.1 tourist spot in the region. Travelers love how it mixes old traditions with modern life. You can see ancient temples in the morning and visit sleek shopping malls in the afternoon.
“In Vietnam, you can eat delicious noodle soup from a street cart for breakfast and enjoy a fancy restaurant dinner by night all while discovering amazing sights in between!”
Let’s look at why Vietnam is capturing travelers’ hearts and why 2025 is the perfect year to visit these amazing places.
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Vietnam has many amazing places that mix beautiful nature, rich history, and lively culture. From busy Hanoi streets to the calm waters of Ha Long Bay, these places to visit in Vietnam show how diverse the country is.
| Destination | Region | Key Highlights | Best For |
| Ha Long Bay | North | Limestone islands, emerald waters, caves | Nature lovers, photographers |
| Hoi An | Central | Ancient town, lanterns, tailors, beaches | Culture, shopping, relaxation |
| Hanoi | North | Old Quarter, lakes, museums, food scene | History, urban exploration |
| Sapa | North | Rice terraces, ethnic villages, trekking | Adventure, ethnic culture |
| Ho Chi Minh City | South | Colonial architecture, war history, modern energy | Urban experience, shopping, nightlife |
1. Ha Long Bay – A Natural Wonder
Ha Long Bay is Vietnam’s most famous natural site and a UNESCO World Heritage location. With more than 1,600 limestone islands rising from green waters, this amazing place is one of the most photographed spots in Vietnam.
Taking a boat trip around Ha Long Bay lets you see hidden caves, floating fishing villages, and quiet beaches. The way light changes during the day creates a magical feeling as you move between the tall rock formations. Many travelers stay overnight on a boat to see both sunset and sunrise over this beautiful seascape.
For adventure lovers, kayaking gets you up close to the rock formations and into hidden lagoons. You can also hike on several islands for amazing views that show just how big and beautiful the bay really is.
2. Hoi An – A Town Frozen in Time
The old town of Hoi An charms visitors with its well-preserved old buildings and beautiful lanterns. This former trading port mixes Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European styles, making it one of the most special places to visit in Vietnam.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town lets you walk on stone streets lined with centuries-old merchant houses, temples, and meeting halls. At night, hundreds of colorful lanterns light up the streets and reflect in the Thu Bon River, creating a magical setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Besides its beautiful buildings, Hoi An is famous for custom-made clothing, cooking classes, and nice beaches just a short bike ride away. The countryside around town has traditional farming communities and organic gardens that supply fresh ingredients to the town’s famous restaurants.
3. Hanoi – Old Meets New
Vietnam’s capital mixes ancient temples with French colonial buildings and modern developments. The Old Quarter, with its 36 streets named after trades, is the heart of Hanoi and one of the most interesting places in Vietnam to explore.
Early morning visitors can see locals doing tai chi around Hoan Kiem Lake before exploring the busy street markets. Must-see cultural sites include the Temple of Literature (Vietnam’s first university founded in 1070) and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Hanoi’s food scene offers northern Vietnamese specialties, with many chances to try pho, bun cha, and egg coffee. The city’s growing art districts and craft beer breweries show its modern side, proving that while Hanoi respects its past, it also looks to the future.
4. Sapa – Mountain Paradise
Set in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, Sapa offers some of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes. This highland area has stepped rice fields, misty valleys, and colorful ethnic minority villages that make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam.
There are many hiking options, from easy half-day walks to challenging multi-day trips. On any route, visitors see stunning views and can meet H’mong, Dao, Tay, and other ethnic groups who keep their traditional ways of life.
For the best Sapa experience, stay with a local family, where you can join in daily activities, learn traditional crafts, and enjoy home-cooked mountain food. The local markets offer colorful glimpses into local business and social life.
5. Ho Chi Minh City – The Busy Southern City
Formerly called Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is full of energy and business spirit. As Vietnam’s largest city and economic center, it offers a different feel compared to the more traditional north, making it one of the most lively places in Vietnam.
The city’s colonial history shows in landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Opera House. Modern skyscrapers change the skyline, with rooftop bars that give amazing views of the fast-changing city.
Historical sites include the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels, giving powerful insights into Vietnam’s complex history. To experience local life, visitors can explore Ben Thanh Market, try street food in District 4, or join the evening walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Famous Vietnam Tourist Places
Beyond the main destinations, Vietnam has many other famous attractions. These famous Vietnam tourist places combine beautiful nature, important history, and rich culture.
1. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – Cave Paradise
Located in central Vietnam, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is famous for having some of the most spectacular caves in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, along with many other amazing cave systems.
Visitors can explore these underground wonders by boat, walking tours, or adventure caving expeditions. The park also protects one of Vietnam’s largest areas of primitive forest, home to rare plants and animals.
2. Mekong Delta – The Rice Bowl of Vietnam
The Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam is where the mighty Mekong River meets the sea. This fertile region is famous for floating markets, fruit orchards, and a network of narrow canals lined with villages.
A boat trip through the Delta reveals rural life that depends on the river. Visitors can see how locals make coconut candy, honey, and rice paper by hand. The region produces much of Vietnam’s rice, earning it the nickname “Rice Bowl of Vietnam.“
3. Ninh Binh – “Ha Long Bay on Land”
Often called “Ha Long Bay on Land,” Ninh Binh amazes visitors with limestone karsts rising from rice fields instead of water. This inland landscape offers some of the most beautiful scenery in northern Vietnam.
The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and Tam Coc are the most popular areas to explore by small rowboat. As local rowers guide boats through caves and between towering rocks, visitors can enjoy the peaceful countryside and spot ancient temples perched on hilltops.
4. Phu Quoc Island – Beach Paradise
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island, located in the Gulf of Thailand. With white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and lush jungles, it’s becoming one of Vietnam’s premier beach destinations.
Visitors can relax at resorts along Long Beach, explore the night market for seafood, or discover the island’s interior through national park hikes. The island is also famous for producing some of Vietnam’s best fish sauce and black pepper.
5. Da Nang – Central Vietnam’s Hub
Located on the central coast, Da Nang combines city comforts with easy access to beaches, mountains, and historical sites. The city is known for its long coastline, highlighted by My Khe Beach (once called “China Beach” by American soldiers).
The city’s symbol is the Dragon Bridge, which actually breathes fire on weekend nights. Nearby attractions include the Marble Mountains with their caves and temples, and Ba Na Hills with the famous Golden Bridge held by giant stone hands.
Historical Places in Vietnam
Vietnam’s rich history spans thousands of years, from ancient kingdoms to colonial rule and modern conflicts. These historical places in Vietnam help visitors understand the country’s complex past and its influence on today’s culture.
Vietnam War Places
The Vietnam War (called the American War in Vietnam) left a deep mark on the country. Several sites preserve this difficult history, teaching visitors about the war’s impact.
1. Cu Chi Tunnels – Underground Warfare
Just outside Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels show the incredible underground network used by Vietnamese fighters during the war. The tunnels stretched over 250 kilometers, with living areas, command centers, hospitals, and storage rooms all hidden underground.
Visitors can crawl through widened sections of tunnel, see booby traps and weapons, and learn how people survived in these challenging conditions. The site offers powerful insights into the determination and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese during wartime.
2. War Remnants Museum – Confronting History
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum presents the brutal reality of the Vietnam War through photographs, artifacts, and displays. The museum focuses on the effects of weapons like Agent Orange and napalm on civilians.
While the exhibits can be emotionally difficult to view, they provide important perspectives on the war’s human cost. Outside the museum, visitors can see American military equipment including tanks, planes, and artillery pieces.
3. Khe Sanh Combat Base – Battlefield Preserved
This former U.S. Marine Corps base in central Vietnam was the site of a famous 77-day siege in 1968. Today, Khe Sanh preserves trenches, bunkers, and a small museum with weapons, photographs, and personal items from both sides of the conflict.
The remote mountain setting helps visitors understand the strategic importance of this location near the former DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between North and South Vietnam.
4. Vinh Moc Tunnels – Civilian Survival
Unlike the Cu Chi Tunnels, which were used mainly for military purposes, the Vinh Moc Tunnels were built to shelter an entire village. Located near the DMZ, these tunnels protected civilians from intense bombing.
The complex includes three levels of tunnels at different depths, with family rooms, meeting halls, and even a maternity room where 17 children were born during the war. The tunnels are larger than those at Cu Chi, making them easier for most visitors to explore.
Vietnam Bay & Beaches
With over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, Vietnam offers some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful beaches and bays. These Vietnam bay and beach destinations range from developed resort areas to nearly untouched stretches of sand.
1. Nha Trang – Resort City by the Sea
Nha Trang combines a beautiful curving bay with city amenities, making it one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations. The long sandy beach is lined with hotels, restaurants, and shopping, creating a lively atmosphere day and night.
Visitors enjoy swimming in clear waters, diving and snorkeling around nearby islands, and mud bath spas in the area. The seafood here is excellent, with fresh catches served at beachside restaurants every day.
2. Lang Co Beach – Hidden Gem
Nestled between Hue and Da Nang, Lang Co Beach offers a more peaceful alternative to Vietnam’s busier coastal areas. This 10-kilometer stretch of white sand curves around a beautiful blue lagoon, with mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.
The beach is known for its clean water, fresh seafood, and laid-back atmosphere. Despite being close to popular tourist routes, Lang Co remains relatively undeveloped, giving visitors a taste of traditional coastal life.
3. Con Dao Islands – Remote Paradise
Once a brutal prison island, Con Dao has transformed into one of Vietnam’s most pristine beach destinations. This remote archipelago in southern Vietnam offers empty beaches, clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and a national park with rich wildlife.
The islands are an important turtle nesting site, and visitors can join conservation programs to help protect these endangered animals. Con Dao’s isolation has preserved both its natural beauty and historical sites, including the former prison complexes.
4. Mui Ne – Land of Sand Dunes
Mui Ne offers a unique coastal landscape where desert meets sea. This beach town is famous for its towering red and white sand dunes that create a surreal setting for sunrise and sunset visits.
The area enjoys a microclimate with less rainfall than other parts of Vietnam, making it a year-round destination. Besides the dunes, visitors come for kitesurfing in consistent winds, fresh seafood, and the unique Fairy Stream with its colorful sand formations.
Top 10 Places in Vietnam
For travelers planning their Vietnam journey, these top 10 places in Vietnam represent the absolute must-see destinations that showcase the country’s diverse attractions.
1. Ha Long Bay
Limestone islands rising from emerald waters create Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonder.
2. Hoi An Ancient Town
Lantern-lit streets and preserved architecture make this former trading port a magical place to explore.
3. Hanoi Old Quarter
The capital’s historic heart offers 36 guild streets with shops, temples, and street food.
4. Sapa Rice Terraces
Stepped rice fields carve the mountainsides, creating one of Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes.
5. Mekong Delta
The “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam where boats ply narrow canals between floating markets and fruit orchards.
6. Phong Nha Caves
Home to Son Doong (the world’s largest cave) and many other underground wonders.
7. Hue Imperial City
The former royal capital showcases Vietnam’s imperial history within its massive citadel.
8. Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam’s largest city blends colonial architecture with modern skyscrapers and vibrant street life.
9. Phu Quoc Island
White-sand beaches and clear waters make this island a tropical paradise.
10. Da Nang
Central Vietnam’s hub offers urban comforts, beautiful beaches, and the famous Golden Bridge nearby.
Must-Visit Places in Vietnam
While all the places mentioned above are worth seeing, here are five absolute must-visit places in Vietnam that offer truly unforgettable experiences even on a shorter trip.
1. Ha Long Bay
Nothing compares to sailing through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay as limestone islands rise dramatically around you. The changing light throughout the day transforms the landscape, creating different moods from misty morning mystery to golden afternoon glow.
A cruise lets you explore caves decorated with stalactites, visit floating fishing villages where generations have lived on the water, and kayak to hidden lagoons surrounded by towering cliffs. Ha Long Bay deserves its place as must-visit places in Vietnam.
2. Hoi An Ancient Town
Walking through Hoi An Ancient Town at night, when hundreds of silk lanterns illuminate the old streets, is a magical experience. The well-preserved mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architecture tells the story of this important trading port.
Beyond sightseeing, Hoi An offers experiences like boat rides on the gentle Thu Bon River, cooking classes to learn local specialties, and custom clothing made by the town’s famous tailors. The nearby beaches and countryside provide perfect day trips from the historic center.
3. Sapa Highlands
The terraced rice fields of Sapa create some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking views, changing colors with the seasons from bright green when newly planted to golden at harvest time. These places in Vietnam have been shaped by ethnic minority groups who maintain their traditional ways of life.
Trekking through villages of the H’mong, Dao, and other ethnic groups offers cultural insights you can’t find elsewhere. Markets burst with color as people in traditional dress gather to trade goods and socialize, creating a photographer’s paradise.
4. Mekong Delta
Life in the Mekong Delta revolves around water, with countless channels creating a maze of waterways between islands, farms, and villages. Floating markets where boats loaded with fruits and vegetables gather to trade in the early morning offer a glimpse of traditional commerce.
Boat trips through narrow canals shaded by water coconut palms reveal daily life along the riverbanks. Visitors can try local specialties like elephant ear fish and seasonal fruits fresh from the orchards that make this region Vietnam’s fruit basket.
5. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
The caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park represent nature at its most spectacular. From the massive Paradise Cave with its enormous chambers decorated with incredible formations to the underground river of Phong Nha Cave, these geological wonders inspire awe.
For adventurous travelers, multi-day expeditions to Son Doong (the world’s largest cave) offer the ultimate exploration experience. The park also protects ancient forests home to rare animals and plants, making it a place where both aboveground and underground worlds impress.
Is Vietnam Good Place to Visit?
Vietnam is definitely one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia for several important reasons:
Amazing Value for Money
Vietnam offers incredible value compared to many other travel destinations. Visitors can enjoy comfortable hotels, delicious meals, and exciting activities at prices much lower than in Europe, North America, or even neighboring Thailand. This makes places in Vietnam a best choice for budget travelers and luxury seekers alike.
• Accommodation ranges from $5 hostels to $100+ luxury hotels
• Meals at local restaurants often cost just $2-5
• Transportation between cities is affordable and efficient
• Activities and entrance fees are reasonably priced
Friendly and Welcoming People
Vietnamese hospitality creates must-visit situation for places in Vietnam . Locals often go out of their way to help travelers, even when there are language barriers. This friendliness creates memorable interactions and helps visitors feel welcome and safe.
In rural areas, don’t be surprised to be invited into homes for tea or meals. These spontaneous encounters offer authentic glimpses into Vietnamese daily life and often become trip highlights.
Outstanding Food Culture
Vietnamese cuisine ranks among the world’s best, making the country a paradise for food lovers. Fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and healthy cooking methods combine to create dishes that are both delicious and nutritious.
Each region offers distinctive specialties: • North: Pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) • Central: Bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh xeo (savory pancakes) • South: Hu tieu (pork and seafood noodle soup), canh chua (sour soup)
Street food, markets, and cooking classes give visitors many ways to explore this amazing culinary tradition.
Diverse Landscapes and Experiences
Vietnam’s geography creates remarkable diversity within a single country. Travelers can experience:
• Misty mountains and rice terraces in the north
• Pristine beaches along the central and southern coasts
• Bustling cities with ancient and colonial architecture
• Tranquil countryside with traditional farming villages
• River life along the Mekong Delta
This variety enhance the motto “must-visit places in Vietnam” to all types of travelers, from adventure seekers to history buffs to beach lovers.
Rich Cultural Heritage
With over 4,000 years of history, Vietnam offers cultural experiences in abundance. The country’s 54 ethnic groups, colonial influences, and religious traditions create a fascinating cultural tapestry for visitors to explore.
From imperial citadels to mountain tribal villages, from Buddhist pagodas to Catholic cathedrals, Vietnam’s cultural attractions provide deep insights into Asian history and contemporary life.
Vietnam stands out as one of the best places to visit in 2025, offering travelers an unmatched combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. The places to visit in Vietnam provide experiences for every type of traveler from the breathtaking limestone islands of Ha Long Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, from the mountain terraces of Sapa to the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City.
What makes Vietnam truly special is how it balances preservation of traditions with embracing the future. Visitors can witness ancient customs and ceremonies in the morning, then experience modern Vietnam’s creativity and innovation in the afternoon at diverse places in Vietnam. This harmonious blend of old and new creates a travel experience unlike any other in Southeast Asia.
The country’s developing tourism infrastructure makes travel increasingly convenient while still maintaining the authentic experiences that travelers seek. With new flight routes, improved roads, and a growing range of accommodations, Vietnam is more accessible than ever before with more Vietnam tourist places.
Ready to experience the wonders of Vietnam?
Gomayu Travel specializes in creating custom Vietnam journeys with must-visit places in Vietnam that match your interests, pace, and budget. Our local expertise ensures you’ll discover both famous highlights and hidden gems that most travelers miss. Contact us today to plan your perfect Vietnam adventure for 2025!
FAQs for Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
What is the No. 1 tourist spot in Vietnam?
Ha Long Bay is Vietnam’s top attraction with its breathtaking limestone islands rising from emerald waters.
What part of Vietnam should I visit?
North for mountains and culture, Central for history and beaches, South for city life and tropical weather.
What is the nicest place to visit in Vietnam?
Hoi An Ancient Town with its magical lantern-lit streets and well-preserved architecture.
Is 7 days enough in Vietnam?
Seven days is enough to see key highlights in one region but requires careful planning.
Where to avoid in Vietnam?
Border areas, some city areas at night, and beaches during monsoon season require extra caution.
Is Vietnam cheap or expensive?
Vietnam is very affordable with budget travelers spending $30-50 per day and luxury options still costing less than in Western countries.
Is Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City better?
Hanoi offers more tradition and history, while Ho Chi Minh City provides modern energy and better nightlife.
Which part of Vietnam is most beautiful?
Northern mountains (Sapa, Ha Giang) offer Vietnam’s most breathtaking scenery with terraced rice fields and dramatic peaks.
How many days in Vietnam is enough?
14-21 days is ideal to experience Vietnam’s diversity from north to south without rushing.
What is Vietnam famous for?
Vietnam is famous for stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, rich history, and warm hospitality.
Which part of Vietnam is safest?
Hoi An and Da Nang in central Vietnam are considered the safest areas for tourists.
What is the best time to visit Vietnam?
February to April offers good weather throughout the country, while December-January is good but chilly in the north.
How much will a Vietnam trip cost?
A Vietnam trip costs $30-50 daily for budget travelers, $75-150 for mid-range, and $200+ for luxury experiences.
Do you need a visa for Vietnam?
Most visitors need a visa except citizens from ASEAN countries and some European nations who have 15-45 day exemptions.
Is Ho Chi Minh worth visiting?
Yes, for its energy, war history, colonial architecture, excellent food scene, and shopping opportunities.
Is Ho Chi Minh safe at night?
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe at night in tourist areas with normal urban precautions recommended.
What not to bring to Vietnam?
Avoid bringing expensive jewelry, excessive cash, politically sensitive materials, drones without permits, or too many heavy clothes.
Which city is better in Vietnam?
Hoi An offers the best balance of beauty, culture, cuisine, and relaxation for most visitors.
Is $100 a lot in Vietnam?
$100 is substantial in Vietnam, covering a 4-star hotel night, several days of meals, or multiple activities.
Is a visa free for Vietnam?
Only citizens from select countries (some ASEAN nations, Japan, Korea, some European countries) enjoy visa-free entry to Vietnam.
Is Vietnam good for shopping?
Vietnam offers excellent shopping for silk, handicrafts, coffee, art, and custom clothing at very reasonable prices.
Why is Ho Chi Minh so famous?
Ho Chi Minh City is famous as Vietnam’s largest economic center with rich war history and a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences.
Which city is beautiful in Vietnam?
Da Lat with its lake, pine forests, waterfalls, and flower farms is Vietnam’s most picturesque city.
Does Hanoi have beaches?
Hanoi has no beaches within the city but several coastal options are accessible within 2-4 hours by car.
Which part of Vietnam is most beautiful?
Northern highlands, Ha Long Bay, the central coast, and the central highlands offer Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes.
Which is better Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi?
Hanoi for traditional culture and history; Ho Chi Minh City for modern energy and nightlife.
Where is the best place to go in Vietnam first time?
A combination of Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An provides the perfect introduction to Vietnam.
What is the most visited city in Vietnam?
Ho Chi Minh City receives the most international visitors as the primary gateway to Vietnam.
What is Vietnam famous for?
Vietnam is famous for war history, stunning landscapes, delicious food, rich cultural heritage, and handmade crafts.
Which city should I go in Vietnam?
Hanoi for first-timers, Hoi An for food lovers, Da Nang for beaches, Ho Chi Minh City for shopping and nightlife.
Which season is best in Vietnam?
February to April offers the best overall weather throughout Vietnam for a complete north-to-south journey.
Continue with Whatsapp
Continue with Messenger
