30 Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam You Shouldn't Miss if You Have the Chance to Visit

30 Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam, Including Places You Should Visit in Vietnam. The country is filled with natural diversity, featuring caves, mountains, and waterfalls.
Traveloka TH
03 Feb 2025 - 18 min read

When it comes to countries that are easy to visit, where anyone can go and explore at any time of the year, with diverse landscapes like mountains, beaches, and beautiful ancient towns, Vietnam is a top choice. As a neighboring country to Thailand, it's not far away—just over a 2-hour direct flight. The best part? You don’t even need a visa to visit. So, let’s take a look at some of the must-see destinations in Vietnam!

Discover flight with Traveloka

Tue, 13 May 2025

Vietravel Airlines

Bangkok (BKK) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

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Wed, 7 May 2025

Bamboo Airways

Bangkok (DMK) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

Start from THB 1,860.94

Tue, 20 May 2025

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Phuket (HKT) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

Start from THB 2,488.79

The main advantage of traveling to Vietnam is its ease of travel, with notable attractions in each city. The cost is also relatively affordable, as the currency and cost of living are generally cheaper than in Thailand. So, for the upcoming holiday, don’t wait any longer—book your flight to Vietnam with Traveloka and get ready to snap photos at these 30 beautiful destinations in Vietnam.

What are some interesting tourist destinations in Vietnam?

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, as it is considered a famous landmark of Hanoi. It is a lake surrounded by limestone mountains, creating a breathtaking view. Most people visit on a day trip, going in the morning and returning in the evening. However, many may not know that you can also book a Halong Bay tour with an overnight stay on a boat, perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the stunning views of the bay.

Location: Ha Long Bay

2. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh

When talking about Ha Long Bay, you can't forget Ha Long Bục, as it's often included in package tours along with Ha Long Bay. Ha Long Bục is another famous tourist destination located in Ninh Binh, known for its lush greenery and natural beauty. It's only about 100 kilometers from Hanoi, making it a convenient spot to visit. The highlight of a trip to Ha Long Bục is cycling, taking a boat ride along the river, and passing through caves.

Location: Ha Long Bục

3. Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake

For anyone flying to Vietnam, don't forget to visit Hoan Kiem Lake (also known as the Lake of the Returned Sword), a small lake surrounded by a lovely garden, located in the heart of Hanoi. Not only is it an important landmark, but it also serves as a gathering place for locals to socialize and exercise. The highlight of the lake is its surroundings, where you'll find numerous restaurants, shops, and accommodations, making it a central hub of Hanoi.

Location: Hoan Kiem Lake

4. Hanoi Old Quarter

 Hanoi Old Quarter

When traveling to Vietnam, you must visit the Hanoi Old Quarter, as this area is filled with old buildings and architecture that take you back in time. It’s an ancient town where people still live, and the unique charm lies in the way of life of the Hanoi locals, almost like a living museum.

5. Temple of Literature

Temple of Literature

For those who want to admire the beauty of Vietnam's architecture, a visit to the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) in Hanoi is a must. Not only is it a temple dedicated to literature, but it is also the first university of Hanoi. As you walk inside, you'll feel like you're in a Chinese palace. Many people come here to pray for their children to pass university entrance exams.

6. Trấn Quốc

Trấn Quốc

Besides the attractions within the city, another interesting spot in Hanoi is Trấn Quốc Pagoda, an ancient pagoda located not far from the Old Quarter. It's only a 10-minute drive away. The pagoda is not only a place of worship for the locals and tourists but also offers a beautiful view, as it is situated by the West Lake. The area around the pagoda is also incredibly peaceful.

7. Sapa

Sapa

For those who have the chance to visit Vietnam during the rainy and winter seasons, a trip to Sapa is highly recommended. Located in the northern part of the country, Sapa's highlight is the beautiful scenery of terraced rice fields along the way. If you take a train, you'll be treated to lush, green views. Additionally, Sapa boasts fresh air and cooler temperatures compared to other cities. To put it simply, Sapa is like the Chiang Mai of Vietnam.

Location: Sapa

8. Phong Nha Caves

Phong Nha Cave is a must-visit destination in Vietnam, as it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. It is famous for its breathtaking beauty. To visit this cave, you need to travel to Quang Binh, located in central Vietnam. The area is renowned for its stunning limestone mountains, filled with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. If you want to admire the beauty of nature and explore a beautiful cave, Phong Nha is the place to be.

Location: Phong Nha Cave

9. Fairy Stream

Fairy Stream

An Unseen Vietnam destination, Fairy Stream is a natural wonder where you can experience the beauty of large sandstone mountains that have been eroded by water, forming wide grooves over 20 meters across. The layers of sand create beautiful colors, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, taking photos, and dipping your feet in the water for a relaxing time.

Location: Fairy Stream

10. Japanese Covered Bridge

Japanese Covered Bridge

If you're visiting Vietnam, don't miss the chance to take a photo with the famous Japanese Bridge, a key landmark of Hoi An. This bridge is a symbol of the city, built by the Japanese to connect with the Chinese community, which was originally separated only by a canal. The main charm of the Japanese Bridge lies in its beautiful architecture.

Location: Japanese Bridge

11. Cửa Đại

Cửa Đại

For a summer getaway in Vietnam, we recommend visiting Cửa Đại Beach, located very close to Hoi An. It’s just a 15-minute taxi ride away. The highlight of this beach is its long stretch of coastline, where many people enjoy picnicking by the sea and eating fresh seafood. However, swimming is not recommended due to the strong waves. During the summer, the beach can get crowded, but it also offers especially beautiful scenery.

12. Mũi Né

Mũi Né

Who would believe that Vietnam is such a diverse country, even having a desert! Yes, it's true! The desert is located in Mui Ne, a famous seaside town in Vietnam. The Mui Ne Desert has two sides: the Red Sand Dunes and the White Sand Dunes. It's a highly recommended destination in Vietnam, especially for those seeking a unique location for photos.

Location: Mui Ne Desert

13. Nha Trang Bay

Nha Trang Bay

Besides having mountains and deserts, Vietnam is also known for its stunning beaches, and one of the most famous is Nha Trang Beach. The beach stretches over 6 kilometers and is famous for its crystal-clear blue waters and fine white sand. This beautiful beach is a favorite among tourists, and it is also popular for deep-sea diving.

Location: Nha Trang Beach

14. Hai Van Pass in Da Nang

Hai Van Pass in Da Nang

Known as one of the most scenic driving routes in Asia, Hai Van Pass is located between the cities of Hue and Da Nang. The route stretches for about 21 kilometers, including a 6.3-kilometer tunnel. The highlight of this road is the stunning view of the mountains and the South China Sea. However, you may also encounter unpredictable weather conditions along the way.

Location: Hai Van Pass

15. Bana Hill

Bana Hill

If you're visiting Da Nang, we highly recommend you experience Bana Hill at least once in your life. Originally built as a French military rest house, it has been renovated and transformed into a popular tourist destination. To reach the top of Bana Hill, you’ll need to take a cable car ride across the mountain. At the summit, you'll find hotels, amusement parks, flower gardens, and many other attractions to enjoy, along with cool weather and stunning views.

Location: Bana Hill

16. My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach

For a beach destination in Vietnam, you should visit My Khe Beach in Da Nang. This beach stretches for several kilometers and is not only beautiful but also lined with numerous seafood stalls offering fresh, affordable seafood. If you're visiting Da Nang and want to try delicious seafood, My Khe Beach is the perfect place to go.

Location: My Khe Beach

17. My Son Sanctuary

For those interested in historical and ancient cities in Vietnam, we recommend visiting My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam province. My Son is an ancient Hindu temple complex that is the best-preserved of its kind in Indochina. It was once a sacred site for the Champa Kingdom. If you want to explore the ruins and learn about the history of My Son, you can easily take a day tour.

18. Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island

Another Unseen destination in Vietnam that has recently gained popularity is Phu Quoc Island. Located in Kien Giang Province in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is often compared to Thailand's Phuket. Getting to the island is easy, as there are direct flights from Thailand. The highlight of Phu Quoc is its stunningly beautiful and crystal-clear waters. If you love island or beach destinations, Phu Quoc is a must-visit spot.

Location: Phu Quoc Island

19. Da Lat

 Da Lat

Da Lat is a year-round destination in Vietnam, thanks to its cool and pleasant climate. Located not far from Ho Chi Minh City, it's easily accessible for a short trip. The city is famous for its beautiful flower gardens and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and unwinding.

Location: Da Lat

20. Son Doong Cave

Son Doong Cave

For adventure seekers who love exploring mountains, caves, and the great outdoors, Son Doong Cave is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. It’s the largest cave in the country, formed by water erosion over time, and it’s far from an ordinary cave. Son Doong features an intact tropical rainforest and an underground river. However, visiting this cave is a special experience as there is a limit to the number of visitors allowed each year, so you'll need to plan ahead.

Location: Son Doong Cave

21. Linh Quy Phap An

Linh Quy Phap An

A beautiful tourist destination in Vietnam to recommend is “Linh Quy Phap An,” a temple located in Lâm Đồng Province near Ho Chi Minh City. It sits on a high plateau in southern Vietnam and is known for its unique architecture, blending beautifully with misty views, making this spot a truly stunning place to visit in Vietnam.

22. Co Thach Beach

Co Thach Beach

For an unseen and stunning tourist spot in southern Vietnam, we recommend "Co Thach Beach," located in Bình Thuận Province. This beach is famous for its uniquely shaped stones, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts or those looking for a new experience. Before visiting, make sure to charge your camera battery, as you'll want to capture every moment!

Location: Co Thach Beach

23. Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc Waterfall

Bản Giốc Waterfall, also known as Thác Đầu Đẳng, is a very popular tourist destination in Vietnam, especially for nature lovers. This beautiful waterfall is located between China and Vietnam, renowned for its stunning scenery. It's easily accessible from Hanoi, so if you're flying into Hanoi, don't miss the chance to take a bus to visit this breathtaking waterfall. You’re sure to fall in love with the beauty of Bản Giốc Waterfall!

24. Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta

For a glimpse into the daily life of the Vietnamese people, we recommend visiting the “Mekong Delta,” the largest river delta in Southeast Asia, located in the southwestern part of Vietnam. Here, you can observe locals rowing boats to sell goods on the river. Tourists can take boat trips through the mangrove forests to explore the environment and experience the way of life in this unique area.

Location: Mekong Delta

25. Tan Dinh Church

Tan Dinh Church

Although there are several pink churches in Vietnam, the “Tan Dinh Church” stands out as one of the most popular attractions. Located in Ho Chi Minh City, it is very easy to access. This church is the second largest in the city and is known for its vibrant pink color, which covers the entire building. It was built during the time when Vietnam was under French rule and is a beautiful example of the period's architectural influence.

Location: Tan Dinh Church

26. The Cafe Apartment

The Cafe Apartment

A must-visit spot in Ho Chi Minh City, especially for photo opportunities, is "The Cafe Apartment." Originally an apartment building for locals, it has transformed into a trendy space filled with cafes and restaurants, while still housing residents. This iconic building has become a popular hangout for young people and tourists, offering a cool and chic atmosphere in the heart of the city.

27. Dambri Waterfall

 Dambri Waterfall

"Dambri Waterfall" is an incredibly beautiful tourist destination in Vietnam, offering stunning views that will make you eager to visit. Located in Bao Loc, it is easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City. This waterfall is famous for its impressive height, which creates a breathtaking sight as the water cascades down the cliff, forming a picturesque landscape.

28. Tam Giac Mach or Buckwheat

Tam Giac Mach or Buckwheat

In addition to the flower gardens in Da Lat, we highly recommend a visit to the Bắc Hà District in Lào Cai Province, located in northern Vietnam. Around mid-year, the Buckwheat flowers (Tam Giác Mạch) bloom, covering the hillsides in vibrant colors. This stunning natural landscape is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking for beautiful scenic shots. If you're after amazing views, this is a must-visit spot!

29. Dragon Bridge

Dragon Bridge

Dragon Bridge in Da Nang is a fantastic Vietnam attraction, especially at night. The dragon's body is illuminated with vibrant changing lights, creating a beautiful spectacle. On Saturdays, Sundays, and during special festivals, the bridge offers an even more thrilling experience with a show where the dragon breathes fire and water, an impressive and breathtaking sight! Nearby, Bach Dang Street is filled with delicious Vietnamese street food, perfect for a culinary adventure after enjoying the bridge.

Location: Dragon Bridge

Discover flight with Traveloka

Sat, 10 May 2025

Bamboo Airways

Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Da Lat (DLI)

Start from THB 946.03

Mon, 26 May 2025

VietJet Air

Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Da Lat (DLI)

Start from THB 1,044.65

Sun, 11 May 2025

VietJet Air

Da Nang (DAD) to Da Lat (DLI)

Start from THB 1,330.60

30. Ba Be National Park

Ba Be National Park

Ba Be National Park is an incredible "Unseen" destination in Vietnam, offering stunning natural beauty. The park is filled with caves, the Dau Dang Waterfall, An Ma Island, Ba Goa Island, limestone mountains, and an 8-kilometer-long lake. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for those looking for a peaceful retreat amidst nature. If you're seeking tranquility and stunning landscapes, this is a place you shouldn’t miss.

If you're looking for a getaway and don't know where to go, consider visiting Vietnam. With its diverse landscapes, Vietnam offers a variety of beautiful destinations, from flower gardens to beaches and mountains, there's something for everyone. You’ll surely fall in love with it!

Travel Guidelines for Tourists Visiting Vietnam

Thai tourists can visit Vietnam for up to 1 month without needing a visa, thanks to a special agreement between the Thai and Vietnamese governments. No COVID-related documents are required either.

Documents to Prepare Before Traveling:

Passport
Flight ticket
Accommodation booking confirmation
Thailand Pass (if required)

Useful Information for Your Vietnam Trip: Vietnam is close to Thailand, making it an easy and affordable destination for many. Here's some basic information you should know before heading to Vietnam:

Basic Facts about Vietnam:

Area: 331,698 square kilometers
Population: Over 89 million people
Capital: Hanoi
Vietnam borders China to the east, Cambodia to the west, Laos to the north, and the South China Sea (Tonkin Gulf) to the south.

Traveling to Vietnam:

Flight duration from Thailand to Vietnam is around 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on weather and flight schedules.
Direct flights to Vietnam are available from airlines such as Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Airways, Qatar Airways, VietJet Air, AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, and Nok Air.

Getting Around Vietnam: There are several transportation options to help you explore Vietnam:

Taxis: The two main reliable taxi companies are Vinasun and Mailinh, with fares starting from 10,000–12,000 VND per kilometer. Grab Taxi services are also available.
City Tour Buses: These buses pass by around 30 major tourist attractions and depart every 30 minutes. It’s a good option for sightseeing and enjoying the local scenery.
Trains: Regular trains (non-sleeper) stop at most stations, while express trains only stop at major stations. Some trains offer sleeping cabins and air conditioning.
Buses: A one-way fare is approximately 7,000–9,000 VND.
Rickshaws: The fare is around 30,000 VND per hour.

With these tips, you’re ready for an easy and enjoyable trip to Vietnam!

Language Used in Vietnam

Vietnam's official language is Vietnamese, and the national language is spoken by the majority, particularly the Kinh (Viet) people.

Time Zone for Traveling to Vietnam

Vietnam shares the same time zone as Thailand, both operating on GMT+7, so there is no need to adjust your clock when you arrive in Vietnam.

Seasons for Traveling to Vietnam

Vietnam experiences four distinct seasons:

1.
Winter (December to February): The temperature ranges from 15°C to 20°C. This is the best time to visit Vietnam as the weather is cool and comfortable, ideal for exploring flower fields, forests, or mountains.
2.
Spring (March to May): The temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it a great time to explore rural areas, natural landscapes, or flower fields.
3.
Summer (June to August): The temperature can rise to 35°C or higher. This is the ideal time to visit coastal areas and waterfalls, where you can enjoy water activities and cool off.
4.
Autumn (September to November): The temperature ranges from 20°C to 25°C. This is perfect for exploring caves and mountains, offering mild and comfortable weather for outdoor adventures.

By understanding these seasonal differences, you can plan your trip to Vietnam to suit your preferences and make the most out of your visit!

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