Vietnam might not always be the first country people talk about, but it’s a destination filled with breathtaking nature, rich culture, and unforgettable scenery. From dramatic landscapes to vibrant traditions, there’s so much waiting to be explored.
Here, we’ve put together a list of incredible places you can visit to experience the very best of Vietnam.
1. Hạ Long Bay
Location: Quảng Ninh Province, northeastern Vietnam
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hạ Long Bay is famous for thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald water; perfect for photography, cruises, kayaking and cave exploring.
Things to See & Do
- Overnight cruise through the bay (many include meals and sunset views)
- Visit Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave and Ti Top Island
- Kayak around hidden grottoes
- Swim and enjoy beach spots near Cat Ba Island
Costs
- Entrance fee: about USD11 – 12 per person
- Day cruise: USD35 – 60+
- Overnight cruise: starting from $70 – $160+
Best Time to Visit: October – December where the weather is cool and clear
2. Hanoi
Location: Northern Vietnam
Hanoi is a city where traditional Vietnamese culture meets French colonial influence. Filled with ancient temples, scenic lakes, buzzing markets and incredible street food culture.
Things to See & Do
- Explore the Old Quarter and enjoy street food like pho and egg coffee
- Visit Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
- See historical sites like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- Join a water puppet show or go on a night market stroll
Costs
- Most city attractions are low-cost or free
- Museums & shows: about USD 2 – 8
- Street food meal: can cost around $1 – $3
3. Ninh Bình
Location: Northern Vietnam, near Hanoi
Often called Halong Bay on land, Ninh Bình offers spectacular mountains, winding rivers, rice paddies, caves and temples
Things to See & Do
- Boat ride through Trang An Scenic Landscape
- Climb up to Mua Cave Viewpoint for panoramic valley views
- Visit ancient temples like Bích Động
- Ride bicycles through rural villages
Costs
- Trang An boat tour & entrance: can cost around USD$9 – $10
- Other nature walks & temples: is free of charge or low cost around $1 – $3
4. Sa pa
Location: Lào Cai Province, northwest Vietnam
Sapa is ideal for hiking through rice terraces, meeting ethnic minority communities, and climbing Vietnam’s highest peak, Fansipan.
Things to See & Do
- Trek through Muong Hoa Valley
- Visit Ta Van, Cat Cat and Ta Phin villages
- Ride cable car to the summit of Fansipan Mountain
Costs
- Fansipan cable car: about $30 per person
- Village entrance & trails: small local fees about $2 – $5
Best Seasons to visit are from April – May since the skies are clear skies or from September – October if you want to see golden rice terraces
5. Hội An
Location: Quảng Nam Province, Central Vietnam
UNESCO-listed Hội An Ancient Town is a charming place with yellow lantern-lit streets, old shophouses, riverside cafes and some of Vietnam’s best food and tailor shops.
Things to See & Do
- Wander the narrow Hoi An Old Town and night markets
- Take a basket boat ride in Bảy Mẫu Coconut Forest waterways
- Try local dishes like cao lầu
- Spend a beach day at nearby An Bàng Beach
Costs
- Ancient Town entrance + lantern show: can cost around $3 – $5
- Basket boat tours: approximately $10 – $20
6. Huế
Location: Central Vietnam
Once the royal capital of Vietnam, Huế has beautiful historic palaces, tombs and temples along the Perfume River.
Things to See & Do
- Explore the Imperial Citadel
- Visit Thiên Mụ Pagoda, an iconic 7-story temple
- See royal tombs like the Tomb of Minh Mạng
Costs
- Citadel entrance (varies by area): rates start at about $8 – $12
- Pagodas/temples: Mostly free or small donation can be given
7. Mekong Delta
Location: Southern Vietnam
The Mekong Delta is a treasure of waterways, floating markets, lush fields and rich culture
Things to See & Do
- Experience Cái Răng Floating Market on the river early in the morning
- Visit local temples and villages
- Cycle or boat through coconut groves and rice paddies
- Stop at cultural sites like Vĩnh Tràng Temple and Cần Thơ Museum
Costs
- River tours & boat rides: about $10 – $25 per ride
- Floating market visits: low or free
8. Phu Quoc
Location: Off Vietnam’s southwest coast
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s top beach island, known for soft white sand, clear waters, marine life and luxury resorts. It’s recently been ranked among the world’s most beautiful islands.
Things to See & Do
- Relax on Starfish Beach
- Take the Hon Thom cable car, one of the world’s longest overwater cable rides
- Try snorkeling, diving or exploring the jungles and waterfalls
Costs
- Cable cars & island tickets: varies from $10 – $30+
- Water activities & cruises: about $30 and above per person
Vietnam has simplified visa entry with expanded e-visa checkpoints to welcome travelers.
East and north are cooler during October – April while central/south are best in dry seasons from January – August
*Rates mentioned above are approximate and can vary. Recheck before going.
