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18 Best places to visit in Vietnam: A first-timer’s guide

12/01/2024 215.911

Finding the best places to visit in Vietnam can be a challenge for travelers, as the country is filled with stunning landscapes, delicious foods, and rich culture. This hand-picked list will help you plan your trip with ease.

Quick Guide

  • Best overall: Hanoi, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay and Ho Chi Minh City for a mix of culture, food, history, and city experiences.
  • Best for nature & adventure: Ha Giang, Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Phong Nha for mountains, caves, valleys, and outdoor adventures.
  • Best for beaches: Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Mui Ne, and Vung Tau for relaxing coastal escapes and water activities.
  • Best for couples: Da Lat, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, and Phu Quoc for romantic scenery and relaxing experiences.
Best places to visit in Vietnam

1. Best places to visit in Vietnam at a glance

From vibrant cities and cultural landmarks to breathtaking mountains and tropical beaches, Vietnam offers diverse destinations for every type of traveler. Here is a quick overview of the best places to visit in Vietnam and what each destination is best known for.

Region

Destination

Best known for

Northern Vietnam

Hanoi

Vietnam’s lively capital, known for the historic Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake and distinctive street food.

Ha Long Bay

Limestone islands, emerald waters, overnight cruises, kayaking and cave exploration.

Ninh Binh

Peaceful rivers, rice fields and towering limestone karsts, often described as “Ha Long Bay on land.”

Sapa and Ha Giang

Mountain scenery, rice terraces, winding roads and villages of local ethnic communities.

Central Vietnam

Hoi An

A UNESCO-listed ancient town known for lantern-lit streets, historic houses, local food and nearby beaches.

Hue

Vietnam’s former imperial capital, featuring the Imperial City, royal tombs and historic pagodas.

Da Nang

Sandy beaches, modern city attractions, the Marble Mountains and convenient access to Ba Na Hills.

Southern Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

A vibrant metropolis with colonial-era landmarks, historical museums, markets and nightlife.

Mekong Delta

River landscapes, floating markets, tropical orchards and traditional waterside communities.

Phu Quoc

Tropical beaches, clear waters, coral reefs, island activities and beachfront resorts.

 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

2. The best places to visit in North Vietnam

Northern Vietnam offers a diverse mix of cultural heritage, dramatic mountain landscapes, peaceful countryside, and vibrant cities. Explore the best places to visit in North Vietnam below.

2.1. Ha Noi – The bustling capital of Vietnam

  • Best time to visit: August to October for cooler and drier weather
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Noi Bai International Airport, about 30km from central Hanoi
  • Top things to do: Explore the Old Quarter, visit historic landmarks, try local street food

Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital, tops the list of the best places to visit in Vietnam. The city boasts many distinctive features, such as an iconic red bridge (The Huc Bridge) that cannot be found in any other place, making it a must-visit for travel enthusiasts.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Even on the busy streets, you can still feel Hanoi’s charm and peacefulness. The Old Quarter, for example, is a bustling area where you can see the old Hanoi through its narrow streets lined with vendors selling traditional goods and local food. Other popular attractions that you should not miss out on include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved leader; Hoan Kiem Lake - a serene oasis in the heart of the city; Long Bien Bridge - a historical witness of Hanoi; the Temple of Literature - Vietnam's first national university, etc. 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

After wandering around the city, it is time to indulge in some of Hanoi's unique delicacies. The city is famous for its street food, which is both delicious and affordable. Some must-try dishes here include “Pho” (Vietnamese noodle soup), “bun cha” (Vietnamese grilled pork with noodles), “Banh Mi” (Vietnamese sandwich), and “Cha Ca La Vong” (Vietnamese grilled fishcake).

Best places to visit in Vietnam

2.2. Ha Long

  • Best time to visit: April to June for pleasant weather and clearer skies
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Travel by road from Hanoi, with buses, limousines, or private cars available
  • Top things to do: Take an overnight cruise, explore caves, kayak around limestone islands

If you are wondering about the best places to visit in Vietnam, Ha Long Bay should be mentioned on the list. The bay features stunning islands and has been recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a World Natural Heritage site. 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

A visit to Ha Long Bay allows you to explore some incredible tourist sites, such as Dragon Eye Island, Ti Top Island, Ngoc Vung Island, Con Coc Island, etc. The bay is also blessed with numerous caves, including Sung Sot Cave, Dau Go Cave, and Me Cung Cave, where visitors can marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Ha Long Bay is also a heaven for food lovers with its wide variety of fresh and delicious local dishes. Some must-try specialties include “Gat Gu” cakes, mantis shrimp vermicelli, grilled chopped squid, oysters, and more. With an abundance of seafood and the skillful hands of the local chefs, you will surely have a delightful culinary experience here.

If you plan to stay in Ha Long, it is recommended that you choose a reliable accommodation such as Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long. This resort is situated on the sea, offering tourists a breathtaking view of the bay. The luxurious rooms and professional services also add up to bring you the ultimate comfort for a complete vacation.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

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2.3. Sapa (Lao Cai)

  • Best time to visit: April to May and September to October for pleasant weather and scenic landscapes
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Travel from Hanoi by train or bus, then continue by road to Sapa
  • Top things to do: Trek through rice terraces, visit ethnic villages, ride the Fansipan cable car

Sapa is a charming mountain town nestled in the northwest region of Vietnam. The town is renowned for its breathtaking mountain vistas and scenic beauty, making it among the best places to visit in Vietnam for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

The terraced rice fields, towering peaks of Fansipan and Ham Rong Mountain, and stunning ethnic villages like Cau May, Cat Cat, and Ta Phin are just some of the many attractions here.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Foodies will also appreciate Sapa's diverse selection of delicious dishes, ranging from dried buffalo meat and “Thang Co” (Vietnamese horse meat soup) to bamboo sticky rice and seven-colored steamed sticky rice. To fully experience the rich flavors of the region, be sure to sample some of the locals’ specialty wines, such as docynia indica wine, Shan Lung wine, and Bac Ha corn wine.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

2.4. Ninh Binh – Vietnam's idyllic gem

  • Best time to visit: January to March or May to August for pleasant weather and lush scenery
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Take a train, bus, or private car from Hanoi
  • Top things to do: Take a sampan boat ride, climb Mua Cave, explore ancient temples

Ninh Binh, located in the northern region of Vietnam, is a top destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. The stunning limestone karsts, astounding temples and pagodas, and incredibly large rice paddies make it an enticing place to visit.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Some of the must-see sites here include the Trang An Complex, Tam Coc, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Mua Cave, and Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

In addition to the beautiful scenery, Ninh Binh also offers delicious specialties such as mountain snails, goat meat, goat cheese, baked rice crust, and Nho Quan wine. These flavorsome dishes are a true reflection of the region's culinary culture, which has been passed down through generations. So, while you explore the beauty of Ninh Binh, do not forget to treat your taste buds to these delightful local specialties.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

2.5. Moc Chau

  • Best time to visit: January to April for flower seasons
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Travel by bus, limousine, or private car from Hanoi
  • Top things to do: Visit flower fields, explore tea plantations, hike to waterfalls

Moc Chau is a picturesque mountainous district located in the southwest of Son La Province. It experiences four distinct seasons, each bringing a new look to the region. Spring is the peak season here, when the pleasant weather is accompanied by the stunning blooming of peach blossom, apricot, and plum flowers. Visitors often flock at this time of year to take in the beautiful floral wonders of nature.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Summer in Moc Chau is the season for fruit harvesting. It is also the best time to witness the majesty of the Dai Yem Waterfall, which falls from the 70-meter-high cliff. 

The weather is cooler in autumn. Visiting Moc Chau during this time, you can see white Brassica napus flowers and sunflowers painting the fields and valleys with their vibrant colors.

When winter comes, it brings colder temperatures and fog that covers the tea hills, creating a mystical and beautiful scenery.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

In addition to the natural beauty, Moc Chau offers an array of delectable local specialties, including fried veal, grilled fish, salmon, Suoi Bang rock snails, buffalo meat, etc., which should not be missed.

2.6. Ha Giang

  • Best time to visit: October to November for buckwheat flowers
  • Ideal stay: 3 - 4 days
  • How to get there: Travel by bus or private car from Hanoi, then explore the destination by motorbike or car
  • Top things to do: Ride the Ha Giang Loop, admire Ma Pi Leng Pass, visit ethnic villages

Ha Giang is a destination in the far northeast of Vietnam. It is renowned for its spectacular mountainous landscape and unique cultural diversity. The place is home to numerous ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Tay, and Dao people, who have preserved their traditions and way of life over generations.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

One of the main highlights of Ha Giang is the winding mountain roads, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and terraced fields. A must-see attraction is the Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO-recognized geopark with stunning rock formations, ancient fossils, and unique cultural heritage. 

Another attraction worth visiting is Ma Pi Leng Pass. It is one of the highest and most scenic mountain passes in Vietnam. The pass offers panoramic views of the Nho Que River and the surrounding mountain ranges, which are particularly striking during sunrise and sunset.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Besides its reputation as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam, Ha Giang is also known for its delectable local specialties. Coming here, you should not miss trying “Thang Co” - a traditional soup made with horse meat, viscera, and herbs) and “Au Tau” porridge - a nutritious dish made with sticky rice, green beans, and pork). It is also famous for its honey, tea, and medicinal herbs, which are harvested from the local forests and hills.

>>> Read more: Vietnam where to go: The 10 HOTTEST destinations

3. Best places to visit in Central Vietnam and the Central Highlands

Discover the best places to visit in Central Vietnam and find the destinations that suit your travel plans.

3.1. Hoi An – A UNESCO-recognized ancient town

  • Best time to visit: February to April for pleasant weather
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Da Nang International Airport, then travel about 30km to Hoi An
  • Top things to do: Explore the Old Town, visit local villages, enjoy the lantern-lit streets

Hoi An, a charming ancient town located in Central Vietnam, is a top-rated tourist attraction in the country. The destination is not only renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture and cultural heritage but also for its lively nightlife. As the sun sets, Hoi An comes alive with numerous activities and entertainment options. From lantern-lit streets and colorful night markets to trendy bars and lively music venues, Hoi An offers an exciting nightlife scene that attracts visitors from all over the world. 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Besides its energetic nightlife vibe, Hoi An is also home to a number of must-see attractions. These include the impressive architecture of Tan Ky Ancient House, the crystal-clear waters and white sand of An Bang Beach, the local farming life of Tra Que Vegetable Village, etc. If you are interested in history and culture, a visit to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient temples and ruins, should be your go-to.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Another highlight of Hoi An is its delicious food, which includes mouth-watering specialties like Cao Lau, Quang noodles, wontons, white rose dumplings, chicken rice, etc. 

If you are looking for a comfortable and convenient stay after a long day of exploring the city, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An is a great option. Located close to the ancient town, this hotel provides easy access to the destination's top attractions. In addition to its prime location, Vinpearl Nam Hoi An offers luxurious services and modern facilities that promise to provide the best accommodation experience during your stay. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a fun-filled day at VinWonders Nam Hoi An, an entertainment park featuring exciting rides, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

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3.2. Da Nang 

  • Best time to visit: February to April for sunny and comfortable weather
  • Ideal stay: 3 - 4 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Da Nang International Airport or travel by train from other major cities
  • Top things to do: Relax on the beach, explore Marble Mountains, visit Son Tra Peninsula

Da Nangknown for its extensive coastline, is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam's central area. This coastal city serves as a connecting point between the two tourist attractions of Hoi An Ancient Town and Hue City. 

Da Nang boasts a variety of charming bridges, including the Han River Bridge, Dragon Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, and Love Bridge, as well as wild and poetic beaches such as My Khe Beach, Non Nuoc Beach, and Xuan Thieu Beach. It is also home to stunning landscapes such as the Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, and Ghenh Bang.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Apart from its breathtaking scenery, Da Nang also offers a wide range of delicious food. Some of the popular delicacies that you must try in this city include Quang noodles, sliced pork rolled with rice paper, Vietnamese pancakes, vermicelli salad with pork and anchovy sauce, noodles with grilled fishcake, and duck porridge.

3.3. Nha Trang 

  • Best time to visit: February to May for sunny beach days and water activities
  • Ideal stay: 3 - 4 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Cam Ranh International Airport, then travel about 35km to Nha Trang
  • Top things to do: Go island-hopping, snorkel, relax on the beach, explore Cham heritage

Nha Trang is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam, drawing in visitors with its stunning scenery, rich cultural sites, and pleasant year-round weather. This region offers many breathtaking landscapes, such as Doc Let Beach, Hon Tre Island, Hon Mun Island, Yang Bay Waterfall, Van Phong Bay, Diep Son Island, etc. If you are interested in exploring the cultural and architectural landmarks, be sure to visit Ponagar Cham Towers, Nha Trang Cathedral, Long Son Pagoda, National Oceanographic Museum, etc.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

While you are in Nha Trang, do not forget to indulge in the local cuisine, which is made with fresh seafood. You will find a wide range of mouthwatering meals here, including jellyfish salad, white sardine salad, grilled sea urchin, fish noodles, and jellyfish noodles.

For an unforgettable experience in Nha Trang, consider staying at Vinpearl Nha Trang. This luxurious resort offers a variety of 5-star rooms with stunning views, as well as top-notch facilities like spas, gyms, bars, swimming pools, and on-site restaurants. A stay here also puts you within easy reach of VinWonders Nha Trang, a lively entertainment destination with exciting attractions, water activities, and immersive experiences for all ages.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

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3.4. Hue – Vietnam's ancient capital

  • Best time to visit: March to April for mild weather and comfortable sightseeing
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Phu Bai International Airport or travel by train from Da Nang
  • Top things to do: Explore the Imperial City, visit royal tombs, enjoy Hue's traditional cuisine

Hue, known as the land of heritage, is a must-visit destination in Central Vietnam. Here, you get the unique opportunity to experience Vietnam's rich cultural heritage through its spectacular landscapes and historical sites, including Truong Tien Bridge, Hue Historic Citadel Relic Complex, Ngu Binh Mountain, Lang Co Bay, Lap An Marsh Lagoon, Tam Giang Lagoon, and many ancient royal mausoleums, temples, and pagodas. 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Hue's traditional royal music, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, has also contributed to the popularity of this city. Its culinary tradition is equally renowned, with dishes like rice with mussels, beef noodles, Hue noodles, vermicelli with grilled pork, and a variety of rice powder cakes that are must-tries during your visit to Hue. 

3.5. Phong Nha

  • Best time to visit: February to August for favorable conditions for outdoor activities
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Travel by train, bus, or flight to nearby Dong Hoi, then continue by road
  • Top things to do: Explore caves, trek through the national park, enjoy river and jungle scenery

Phong Nha is a remarkable destination in Central Vietnam, known for its spectacular cave systems, limestone karst landscapes, and lush forests. Located within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, the area is home to some of Vietnam's most impressive natural wonders, including Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, and Son Doong Cave, the world's largest known cave passage.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Beyond its natural attractions, Phong Nha also offers opportunities to discover the region's cultural and historical heritage. Visitors can explore traditional villages, learn about local life, and visit historical sites in and around the area.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

After a day of exploring caves and forests, travelers can sample local specialties that reflect the flavors of Central Vietnam. Some popular dishes that you should try include “Banh Canh,” a noodle soup dish with crab or pork, “Chao Ca,” a fish porridge dish that is simple yet flavorful, and Quang Hoa pancakes, a mixture of flavors of snakehead fish, vegetables, musa balbisiana, and fish sauce.

3.6. Da Lat

  • Best time to visit: December to March for cool, relatively dry weather
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Lien Khuong Airport or travel by bus from Ho Chi Minh City
  • Top things to do: Visit flower gardens, explore waterfalls, hike Langbiang Mountain, enjoy local coffee

Da Lat is a charming highland destination in Central Vietnam, famous for its cool climate, romantic scenery, and colorful flower gardens. Surrounded by pine forests, rolling hills, and peaceful lakes, the place offers plenty of scenic spots to explore, including Xuan Huong Lake, Langbiang Mountain, Da Lat Flower Gardens, and Datanla Waterfalls.

Great places to visit in Vietnam

In addition, Da Lat is known for its distinctive architecture and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can explore historic French-style buildings, discover local markets, visit flower farms, or enjoy a cup of locally grown coffee while taking in Da Lat's tranquil charm.

Cuisine is another highlight of a visit to Da Lat. Its cool weather makes warm street food especially appealing, with popular specialties including grilled rice paper, Da Lat-style hot soy milk, artichoke tea, and baked rice cakes. Fresh strawberries and other locally grown produce are also worth trying while exploring the destination.

Da Lat grilled rice paper

4. Best places to visit in Southern Vietnam

Plan your Southern Vietnam adventure with these must-visit destinations and local highlights.

4.1. Ho Chi Minh City

  • Best time to visit: December to April for drier weather
  • Ideal stay: 3 - 4 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Tan Son Nhat International Airport or travel by train/bus from other cities
  • Top things to do: Explore historic landmarks, discover local food, experience the nightlife

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a popular tourist destination that should be included in your Vietnam travel itinerary. This city stands out with its magnificent architectural works, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, and Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, which have become the city's iconic landmarks.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

This city is also steeped in Vietnamese history, especially during the resistance war. To learn more about the heroic past of Vietnam, you can explore historical sites such as the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Nha Rong Wharf, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Those seeking a vibrant atmosphere will be glad to know that Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for nightlife, with Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, Bui Vien Street, and Ben Thanh Market among the top spots.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Besides these attractions, Saigon's unique cuisine is another highlight of the city. Must-try delicacies here include steamed broken rice, grilled snails, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and beef noodles.

4.2. Phu Quoc – Vietnam's tropical paradise

  • Best time to visit: November to April for sunny, dry weather
  • Ideal stay: 3 - 4 days
  • How to get there: Fly directly to Phu Quoc International Airport from major cities
  • Things to do: Relax on the beaches, explore the national park, go snorkeling or island-hopping

Phu Quoc Island, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty. Here, you can find a series of picturesque beaches stretching from north to south, framed by majestic mountains, hills, and primeval forests. Notable tourist attractions on the island include Phu Quoc National Park, Ong Lang Beach, Phu Quoc Prison, Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Bai Dai Beach, etc.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Phu Quoc is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also for foodies. The island offers an abundance of regional specialties, including mouthwatering seafood such as herring salad, Ham Ninh steamed sentinel crab, and sea cucumber soup. The rich sea surrounding the island provides fresh and flavorful seafood that will surely satisfy your taste buds.

To make the most of your visit to this Vietnam tourist attraction, be sure to choose a convenient hotel that offers comfortable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking views. Among the many hotels on the island, Vinpearl Phu Quoc is a highly recommended option.

Located in the Bai Dai Beach (or Dai Beach), Vinpearl Phu Quoc offers a perfect setting to enjoy the sunset. It features a system of four deluxe hotels and resorts with high-class amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay and ample energy for further adventures. For a day of fun beyond the resort, head to VinWonders Phu Quoc to discover a world of thrilling attractions, water adventures, and captivating entertainment.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc

4.3. Mui Ne

  • Best time to visit: November to April for drier weather and favorable conditions for outdoor activities
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Travel by bus, limousine, or private car from Ho Chi Minh City
  • Top things to do: Explore the sand dunes, try kitesurfing, watch the sunrise or sunset

Mui Ne is a popular coastal destination in southern Vietnam, known for its sandy beaches, striking sand dunes, and laid-back atmosphere. Its distinctive landscape makes it a great choice for travelers looking for a relaxing beach escape with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Famous attractions in Vietnam

One of the highlights of Mui Ne is its impressive sand dunes, which create a unique landscape unlike many other coastal destinations in Vietnam. Visitors can explore the Red Sand Dunes and White Sand Dunes, enjoy sunrise or sunset views, or try activities such as sandboarding and quad biking. The area is also a popular destination for kitesurfing thanks to its favorable wind conditions.

Beyond its natural scenery, Mui Ne is known for its fresh seafood and local specialties. Travelers can enjoy dishes such as grilled squid, seafood hot pot, fish salad, and dragon fruit, a signature local crop grown extensively around the area.

Mui Ne Vietnam

4.4. Vung Tau – A beach bliss getaway

  • Best time to visit: December to March for sunnier and drier weather
  • Ideal stay: 1 - 2 days
  • How to get there: Travel by road from Ho Chi Minh City or take a ferry
  • Top things to do: Relax on the beach, visit coastal viewpoints, enjoy fresh seafood

Vung Tau is a scenic coastal destination just a short two-hour drive from the center of Ho Chi Minh City. The place is famous for its picturesque beaches, each with its own features.. While Bai Truoc Beach is ideal for catching stunning sunsets, Bai Sau Beach boasts a powdery sandy stretch, and Bai Dau Beach has fascinating rock formations. 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

In addition to its beaches, Vung Tau also has several other tourist attractions, such as Go Gang Island, Pearl Island, Nghinh Phong Cape, the Christ of Vung Tau, the White Palace, Thich Ca Phat Dai Buddhist Temple, etc. 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

When it comes to food, Vung Tau is famous for its seafood. Many seafood restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes, from grilled squid to shrimp spring rolls. Vung Tau is also known for its “Banh Khot”, which are small, savory pancakes made with rice flour and coconut milk.

4.5. Tay Ninh

  • Best time to visit: December to April for drier weather and outdoor exploration
  • Ideal stay: 1 - 2 days
  • How to get there: Travel by bus, private car, or motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City
  • Top things to do: Visit the Cao Dai Holy See, hike or take a cable car up Ba Den Mountain, explore local cuisine

Tay Ninh is a province located in Southern Vietnam, known for its unique cultural and religious attractions. The province is home to the Cao Dai religion, a fascinating fusion of various religions such as Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity. The Cao Dai Great Temple is the religion's holiest site and a must-visit attraction for tourists. You will surely be surprised by its unique architecture and colorful decorations.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Tay Ninh is also famous for its natural beauty, with breathtaking landscapes such as Ba Den Mountain, Dau Tieng Lake, Ma Thien Lanh Valley, etc. 

Best places to visit in Vietnam

Your trip to Tay Ninh will be incomplete without indulging in the province's unique cuisine. Some must-try dishes here include Trang Bang rice noodle soup, Tay Ninh beef, Ba Den mountain lizard, dew-soaked rice paper, and more.

4.6. Can Tho

  • Best time to visit: December to April for drier weather and comfortable boat trips
  • Ideal stay: 2 - 3 days
  • How to get there: Fly to Can Tho International Airport or travel by bus from Ho Chi Minh City
  • Top things to do: Visit the floating market, take a boat trip, explore local villages and orchards

Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho is a bustling city that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the Delta's waterways and lush greenery. There are plenty of attractions to see and explore here. Among them, some must-see spots include Ninh Kieu Wharf, where you can admire the beauty of the Hau River; Cai Rang Floating Market - the largest and most famous floating market in the Delta; the 140-year-old Binh Thuy Ancient House - a perfect blend of French and Vietnamese architecture; and Bang Lang Stork Garden - a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Best places to visit in Vietnam

While in Can Tho, you should not miss trying some of the local delicacies. Some outstanding dishes that you should try are grilled snakehead fish, fish hot pot, fried shrimp cake, grilled pork sausage, grilled snails with pepper, etc.

>>> Book voucher, combo, tour to Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Da Nang as soon as possible to grab the best deal!

5. Essential Vietnam travel tips for first-time visitors

To make the most of your time in Vietnam, it is important to prepare beforehand. Here are a few links to help you plan the perfect Vietnam holiday:

  • Choose the right time to visit: Vietnam has different weather patterns across the North, Central, and South, so check the climate of your chosen destinations before booking your trip. 
  • Plan how to get around: Domestic flights are useful for covering long distances, while trains, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services are convenient for shorter journeys.
  • Prepare your travel essentials: Make sure you understand Vietnam's visa requirements, currency, local time, and basic Vietnamese phrases before arrival. 
  • Carry cash for small purchases: While cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, cash is still useful at local markets, street-food stalls, and smaller businesses.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites, ask before photographing people, and remove your shoes when required.
  • Stay flexible with your itinerary: Vietnam offers a wide range of experiences so leave some room in your schedule for unexpected discoveries along the way

With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering food, Vietnam is a traveler's paradise. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Vietnam has it all. Hopefully, the list of the best places to visit in Vietnam above will inspire and guide you in planning your next unforgettable trip to this incredible country.

>>> Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Nha Trang, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long to enjoy a comfortable stay while exploring the best places to visit in Vietnam!

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6. FAQs about the best places to visit in Vietnam

6.1. Which part of Vietnam is best to visit?

Northern Vietnam is ideal for mountains, culture, and scenic landscapes, Central Vietnam for beaches and heritage, while Southern Vietnam is best for tropical islands, vibrant cities, and the Mekong Delta.

6.2. What are the best places to visit in Vietnam for first-timers?

Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc are great choices for first-time visitors, offering a well-rounded introduction to Vietnam's culture, nature, and cuisine.

6.3. What are the best places to go in Vietnam for backpackers?

Ha Giang, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Da Lat, and Ho Chi Minh City are excellent choices for backpackers, offering diverse experiences and flexible travel options.

6.4. What are the best places to visit in Vietnam for young adults?

Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hoi An, and Da Lat are great choices for young adults, combining vibrant nightlife, outdoor activities, local food, and diverse entertainment.

6.5. What are the best places to visit in Vietnam for couples?

Hoi An, Da Lat, Phu Quoc, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh are ideal for couples, with romantic scenery, relaxing experiences, and memorable opportunities to explore together.

6.6. What are the best places to visit in Vietnam for beaches?

Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Mui Ne, and Vung Tau are some of the best beach destinations in Vietnam for seaside escapes and water sports.

6.7. What are the best places to visit in Vietnam for nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hoi An are among the best destinations for nightlife, with lively bars, night markets, entertainment venues, and evening activities.

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