Top 30 Places to Visit in Vietnam: A Complete Travel Guide from North to South

Northern Vietnam Destinations: Cultural Highlights and Scenic Mountain Escapes

1. Sapa

Traveling up to the cloudy highlands of Lao Cai Province, Sapa is indeed a picturesque escape famous for its stepped rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and refreshing atmosphere. Just around the corner looms Indochina’s highest summit, Mount Fansipan, which you can get to the hard way, on foot, or taking the easy way out by cable car. A hike through the Muong Hoa Valley or a drive across the famed O Quy Ho Pass provides mesmerizing sceneries and a brush with Hmong and Dao communities.

Best time for a visit: March through May, and September through November.

2. Ha Giang

Ha Giang is the wildest and most rugged territory of Vietnam’s northern province. It takes not a long ride to Ha Giang to understand the beauty of the Ha Giang Loop, which is motor biking by magical peaks of limestone and remote mountain passes. Visitors can experience the dramatic Ma Pi Leng Pass, visit traditional markets in Dong Van, and touch the national flag in Lung Cu, the place where Vietnam begins in the north. In terms of ethnicity and primitive natural beauty, it is one of the most unforgettable trips in the whole country.

Best time to visit: March–May, September–November

3. Cao Bang

Another must-see attraction in Vietnam is the Ban Gioc Waterfall, which dramatically plunges close to the Chinese border. There’s also the enchanting Nguom Ngao Cave and the UNESCO Global Geopark, a perfect place for anyone who loves nature and taking photographs. Cao Bang is one great escape, which is refreshing due to its peaceful countryside and the little crowd of tourists.

Best time to visit: September–October, March–April

4. Mu Cang Chai

Mu Cang Chai Situated deep in the northern highlands, Mu Cang Chai is renowned for its spectacular rice terraces steep hillsides carved with the local Hmong communities. A ripple of golden layers descends from the top to the bottom during the harvest season, making it one of the most photogenic landscapes in Asia. It’s not as crowded as Sapa and perfect for real trekking and cultural immersion.

Best time to visit: September–October

5. Moc Chau

This plateau in Son La Province is famous for its tea hills, flower valleys, and dairy farms. Spring turns the land white with plum blossoms and mustard flowers. It’s a cool, refreshing rural retreat offering fresh air, relaxed temperatures, and a chance to step into ethnic Thai culture in stilt houses.

Best time to visit: January-February; October-December

6. Mai Chau

Within a few hours ’ drive from Hanoi, Mai Chau is a tranquil valley that is hemmed in by lush mountains and interspersed with indigenous wooden stilt houses. This is a perfect place for biking, trekking, and home stays with the Thai ethnic minority. Mai Chau provides a tranquil contrast to the hectic areas of Vietnam with warm service under the slow speed of activity in most instances.

Best time to visit: March–May, September–November

7. Hanoi

Vietnam's capital is a lively combination of old temples, colonial architecture, and busy street life. High on the list are Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature, and age-old pagodas. This is the reason people consider Hanoi as well for its street food culture too – pho breakfast and egg coffee beside the lake.

Best time to visit: October–April

8. Ninh Binh

Frequently referred to as the “Halong Bay on Land,” Ninh Binh boasts imposing limestone karsts, snaking rivers, and sites of historical significance such as the ancient capital, Hoa Lu. Sampan boat rides through the Tam Coc or Trang An caves, climbing Hang Mua to the top for a panoramic view, and visiting Bai Dinh make it into the list.

Best time to visit: March–May, September–November

9. Ha Long Bay

An overnight cruise in the emerald green waters of Halong Bay sprinkled with thousands of limestone islands is really the best way to explore the bay, most probably combined with kayaking, visiting caves, and watching the sun rise from the deck. First time travelers to Vietnam cannot miss this.

Best time to visit: October–April

10. Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba sits on the fringes of Halong Bay and represents a more off-the-beaten-path adventure compared to the other bay tours. You may trek through Cat Ba National Park, kayak in Lan Ha Bay, or suntan on hidden beaches. Moreover, it’s got a pretty chilled feel that many nature lovers and backpackers dig.

Best time to visit: April–June, September–November

Central Vietnam places to visit: Historic Towns, Beaches, and Natural Wonders

11. Quang Binh

Quang Binh is a backpacker’s paradise for in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park one can find ancient limestone caves and subterranean rivers inscribed on the World Heritage List. The shining star is Son Doong Cave, which reigns as the largest cave in the world; yet, there are still some other great sites closer to paradise called Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave. Jungle treks, river cruises, and friendly local hospitality are among other things to do in this area.

Best time to visit: February–August

12. Nghe An

Nghe An is a province that is often overshadowed in the traveler’s mind but it offers a tapestry of history and nature. This includes being the birthplace of President Ho Chi Minh, and visitors can tour his childhood home in Kim Lien Village. A short trip from here, one can experience not only primeval forests but also overlooks a great spot for cultural discovery in Thai ethnic villages like Ban Giang, Huoi Mot, and Huoi Luong.

Best time to visit: March–May

13. Hue

Hue - has been the imperial capital of Vietnam for over a century and still holds on to the grace of its royal past. The main attractions are the Imperial City (Citadel), the royal tombs, old pagodas, and the traditional court music of the Perfume River. It is also famous for the very sophisticated culinary art formerly reserved for the Royal Family.

Best time to visit: February–April

14. Da Nang

Da Nang is a great mix of modern city energy and beachside relaxation. It boasts a long coastline, the famous Marble Mountains, and the surreal Golden Bridge held up by giant stone hands at Ba Na Hills. And, great seafood finds and friendly locals with Hue and Hoi An so accessible make it an excellent base in Central Vietnam.

Best time to visit: March–August

15. Hoi An

Hoi An – its name in Vietnamese means peaceful meeting place – is a once-valuable trading port that has retained much of its age-old charm with lantern-lit tiny alleys, wood-fronted merchant houses and cozy riverside markets selling flowers, fruits, and vegetables. You could shop for tailor-made clothes, visit the temples or join one of several cooking classes running in the city. The Old Town lights up during the Lantern Festival under each full moon and surely becomes one of the most enchanting spots in Vietnam.

Best time to visit: February–May

16. My Son Sanctuary

My Son is an assemblage of Hindu temple ruins, located near Hoi An, built by the Champa Kingdom between the 4th and 13th centuries. It’s set in a quiet valley, surrounded by jungle-covered hills that provide an insight into Vietnam’s lesser-known pre-colonial civilizations.

Best time to visit: February–April

17. Quy Nhon

Other than the travelers Quy Nhon may be known to few: shimmering beaches, ancient Cham ruins, and the authentic local scene - minus the hordes. Great for those who want peace and nature. Go to Ky Co Beach, visit Thap Doi Towers, and sample fine seafood by the sea.

Best time to visit: March–August

18. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is one of the most visited beaches in Vietnam and specializes in island-hopping tours, snorkeling, mud baths, among others. The city is a fusion of subtropical and tropical ambiance with its beach bars, local markets, and accessibility to the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area.

Best time to visit: February–August

19. Da Lat

Set on the plateau in the Central Highlands, Da Lat is known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” boasting refreshing weather and pine forests. It’s surrounded by waterfalls, flower farms, and whimsical French architectural touches. It does the trick for couples and newlyweds on a Honeymoon as it’s located in nature.

Best time to visit: December–March

20. Buon Me Thuot

Buon Me Thuot is considered the heart of Vietnam’s coffee-growing region and is a great base for any traveler interested in exploring the ethnic diversity and natural beauty of the Central Highlands. Activities include visits to coffee plantations, treks to Dray Nur Waterfall, or an insight into the traditions of the Ede people.

Best time to visit: November–April

Southern Vietnam Tourist Places: Cities, Rivers, and Island Escapes

21. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon)- As Vietnam's most dynamic metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a vibrant fusion of old and new. Wander through the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office - French colonial landmarks. Explore the sobering War Remnants Museum, dive into the city's unbeatable street food scene at Ben Thanh Market. Nightlife is buzzing, coffee culture thrives, and every street corner is energy-filled.

Best time to visit: December–April

22. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an hour and a half drive northwest of Ho Chi Minh City and are attached to your history hands. This underground network runs more than 250 kilometers and was used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war for hiding, communication, and survival. Today, visitors can crawl through enlarged sections of the tunnel, try the ambushing cassava similar to what local guerillas sustained on, and view an incredible collection of wartime weapons and traps that were produced. Best time to visit: November–March

23. Tay Ninh

Tay Ninh is home to Caodaism, one of the most unique religions in the world. The Cao Dai Great Temple, painted in surreal pastels and adorned with eye-catching symbols, is a spiritual and architectural highlight. Just outside town, Ba Den Mountain (Black Virgin Mountain) offers hiking trails, panoramic cable car rides, and a sacred Buddhist complex at the summit.

Best time to visit: November–February

24. Vung Tau

Only two hours by road from Vung Tau to Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau is a pleasant escape that many Vietnamese and foreigners residing in Vietnam like to indulge in. Enjoy the beaches like Bai Truoc or Bai Sau, dine on delicious fresh seafood at restaurants on the shore, and walk up to the Christ the King statue to have a view of the whole South China Sea. The colonial lighthouse along with pagodas on the hill builds up the simplicity of the town.

Best time to visit: November–April

25. Con Dao Islands

Infamous for the prison camps under the oppressive French colonial rule, the Con Dao Islands now emerge as among the most untouched beach destinations in the whole of Vietnam. Clear turquoise waters, untouched coral reefs, and protected nesting areas for sea turtles make this ideal to dive, snorkel, or just unplug from the world. Endless islets mostly remain untouched. The history enthusiast can also spend time exploring the eerie Con Dao prison complex.

Best time to visit: March–September

26. Phu Quoc Island

In the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Cambodia and proudly part of Vietnam, lies the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc. Here’s how you can spend time lounging on Sao Beach or watching a sunset at Long Beach, snorkeling the day away around the An Thoi archipelago, and more. It’s got beaches and great food as well as fish sauce production, pepper farms, and a growing number of fine-dining spots.

Best time to visit: November–April

27. Can Tho

The largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho represents both the cultural and economic hub of the area. While most travelers may know it mainly for its floating market, known as Cai Rang, where laden boats of fruits and vegetables ply along the river at the sunrise, there is much that can be experienced sampaning through the meandering canals, visiting ancient communal houses, and relishing real southern savors. Offering a mix of laid-back charm and subtle sophistication, Can Tho is perfect for slow travelers.

Best time to visit: December–April

28. Ben Tre

Often referred to as the “land of coconuts,” Ben Tre offers a peaceful escape into the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta. Float along narrow canals under canopies of water palms, visit traditional coconut workshops, and stay in a local homestay to experience delta life. It’s a place of gentle beauty, where time slows down and hospitality feels genuine.

Best time to visit: January–March

29. Chau Doc

Easily making way into the heart of any visitor with its endless waterways, Chau Doc is a perfect mirror into delta life, where everything from boats to houses floats upon nothing but bamboo stilts. With traditional fish farms and vast bird sanctuaries, there's nothing between you and nature in Chau Doc. Do not miss a trip to the Sam Mountain, and the breathtaking views of rice paddies stretching all the way to the Cambodian border.

Best time to visit: November–March

30. Soc Trang

Rich in Khmer Buddhist culture, Soc Trang is home to some of Vietnam’s most impressive pagodas, including the Bat Pagoda, known for thousands of fruit bats hanging in the trees, and the Clay Pagoda, with hundreds of handmade statues. Visit during the Ok Om Bok Festival to witness colorful longboat races and traditional celebrations that reflect the region’s deep-rooted Khmer heritage.

Best time to visit: October–December

Conclusion

From peaceful highlands in the north to sun-soaked islands in the south, Vietnam’s destinations offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re planning a two-week itinerary or a longer cultural adventure, these top places to visit in Vietnam will help shape a journey filled with beauty, depth, and discovery.

To make your planning even easier, we’ve also put together a visual guide - watch our Best Places to Visit in Vietnam video on YouTube for a closer look at the landscapes, cities, and hidden gems featured in this list.

Let it inspire not just where you go, but how you experience each moment.