Top 15 Places to Visit in Vietnam

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Buckle up because this country is loaded with vibes. From floating markets to Insta-famous bridges, Vietnam is the kind of place where one moment you’re eating pho by the street, and the next you’re cruising through ancient caves. 

Whether you’re into beaches, temples, history, or just the food (let’s be real), Vietnam’s got it all. If you’re figuring out your bucket list, we’ve rounded up the best places to visit in Vietnam that will give you all the feels. 

Here’s your ultimate guide to the top places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Hạ Long Bay – UNESCO Gem of Limestone Wonders
   Famous for emerald waters and towering limestone islands; perfect for honeymooners, families, and cruise lovers.

2. Hanoi – Culture, Chaos & Charm in the Capital
   Vietnam’s historic capital blends temples, street food, and colonial charm; great for culture seekers and solo travelers.

3. Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s Urban Powerhouse
   A bustling mix of history and nightlife; ideal for city explorers, foodies, and young solo travelers.

4. Sapa – Mountains, Rice Terraces & Ethnic Villages
   Known for scenic trekking and hill tribes; loved by adventure seekers, backpackers, and nature lovers.

5. Da Nang – Beaches & City Life by the Coast
   Famous for My Khe Beach and the Golden Bridge; a great pick for families, couples, and luxury travelers.

6. Ninh Binh – “Ha Long Bay on Land”
   Explore caves, rivers, and temples; a peaceful retreat for couples, nature lovers, and photographers.

7. Ba Be National Park – Lake, Jungle & Ethnic Life
   Home to Vietnam’s largest freshwater lake; ideal for eco-tourists, adventure lovers, and offbeat explorers.

8. Ti Top Island – A Viewpoint in Ha Long Bay
   Known for panoramic bay views and sandy beaches; perfect for couples and photographers visiting Ha Long.

9. Hoi An – Timeless Charm of Ancient Vietnam
   UNESCO old town with lantern-lit streets; best for honeymooners, families, and cultural explorers.

10. Mekong Delta – River Life & Floating Markets
    A maze of rivers and villages; suits families, cultural travelers, and those seeking rural experiences.

11. Chàm Islands – Marine Paradise near Hoi An
    Great for snorkeling and diving; loved by beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and island hoppers.

12. Pu Luong Nature Reserve – Eco Heaven in the Hills
    Rice fields and waterfalls in peace; perfect for trekkers, nature lovers, and offbeat travelers.

13. Hue – The Imperial Past of Vietnam
    Known for its royal tombs and citadel; best for history buffs, families, and culture-focused trips.

14. Quang Binh – Vietnam’s Cave Capital
    Home to world’s largest cave Son Doong; ideal for thrill-seekers, spelunkers, and adventure lovers.

15. Cu Chi Tunnels – A Glimpse into War History
    Underground tunnel system from the Vietnam War; suits history lovers and curious travelers of all ages.

1. Hạ Long Bay

This place looks straight out of a fantasy movie. There are numerous limestone islands scattered across calm waters. Also, it’s one of the most famous places to visit in Vietnam. So, if you’re interested in kayaking, cruising, or just want to see the beautiful sunsets from a boat deck, we recommend you make Hạ Long Bay your first destination to visit in vietnam.

Best Time to Visit

October to April is where the real magic happens. You’ll get clear skies, perfect temps, and fewer rain interruptions. Avoid June to August unless your aesthetic includes raincoats and cloudy pics.

Top Attractions

• Overnight Cruises
• Sung Sot Cave
• Ti Top Island:
• Bai Tu Long Bay
• Floating Villages

Why It Hits

This UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t just pretty,it’s peaceful. You’ll go from busy brain to “I’m one with nature” real quick. Plus, it’s a total favorite on every list of Vietnam tourist places, and honestly? For good reason. It’s not just a stop,it’s an experience.

2. Hanoi (Capital City)

Hanoi is Vietnam’s chaotic, cultural heart. It’s loud, fast, flavorful, and full of soul. If you love energy-packed cities that somehow feel ancient and modern all at once, Hanoi is your spot. From buzzing night markets to lakeside chill spots, this place balances madness and magic perfectly. 

Best Time to Visit

October to December is peak perfection. Think cool weather, no rain, and great walking vibes. Spring (March–April) also works well if you’re into blossoms and lighter crowds.

Top Attractions

• Old Quarter
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Train Street
• Temple of Literature
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Night Markets

Why It Hits

Hanoi is one of those places to see in Vietnam that surprises you. One second you’re eating crispy Banh Mi, next second you’re walking through a 1,000-year-old temple. It’s sensory overload,in a good way. And the food? Let’s just say don’t even try to diet here.

For anyone seeking energy, culture, and a city that doesn’t sleep, Hanoi is one of the top Vietnam tourist places to get lost in (literally and metaphorically).

3. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Say hello to Ho Chi Minh City,aka Saigon. If Hanoi is Vietnam’s brain, Saigon is its hustle-filled heart. This city doesn’t slow down. It’s fast, flashy, bold, and buzzing 24/7. Think sleek rooftop bars sitting above French colonial buildings, massive markets where bargaining is an art, and museums that leave you speechless. It’s a full-blown sensory experience. For real, Saigon is one of those Vietnam tourist places that gives you city chaos with a soul.

From street eats to skyline views, this city is basically Vietnam’s answer to “go big or go home.”

Best Time to Visit

Visit between December to April when the weather is dry and kinda perfect for exploring on foot or scooter. Avoid June to September unless you’re cool with sweaty shirts and sudden downpours.

Top Attractions

• Ben Thanh Market
• War Remnants Museum
• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street
• Bitexco Tower Skydeck
• Bui Vien Street

Why It Hits

Saigon mixes the wild and the wise. One second you’re sipping $1 street coffee, the next you’re inside a luxury mall. If you love cities that never sleep, Ho Chi Minh City is a must among Vietnam tourist places. 

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4. Sapa (Northern Highlands)

Tired of the city buzz? Pack your hiking boots and head to Sapa,Vietnam’s mountain queen. Nestled in the northern highlands near the Chinese border, Sapa is all rice terraces, misty peaks, and colorful hill tribes. This place is calm, stunning, and super unique. You’re literally walking above the clouds. It’s easily one of the most scenic places to visit in Vietnam, especially if you’re into nature and that slow-travel vibe.

Best Time to Visit

Plan your trip during March to May or September to November. Spring brings flowers and fresh air; autumn brings golden rice fields and cool hiking weather. Winter is freezing but snow-capped drama hits differently.

Top Attractions

• Fansipan Mountain
• Muong Hoa Valley
• Cat Cat Village
• Love Waterfall
• Sapa Market
• Homestays

Why It Hits

Sapa is for the soul. It’s one of those Vietnam best places to visit when you want to feel tiny in a massive, magical world. Plus, the cultural blend here is unreal,you’ll meet people from multiple ethnic groups, all living with traditions that go back centuries. Out of all the peaceful places to see in Vietnam, Sapa might just be the most awe-inspiring. 

5. Da Nang

Da Nang is Vietnam’s glow-up city. What used to be a sleepy coastal stop is now a fusion of sandy beaches, sleek resorts, insane bridges, and hip coffee shops. It’s clean, calm, and modern, but still super close to cultural gems like Hoi An and Hue. Basically, if you want to mix beach vacay with temple hopping and some serious skyline shots, Da Nang is the one. It’s one of the most balanced places to visit in Vietnam, and the vibes? Immaculate.

Best Time to Visit

February to May is prime time. Think clear skies, warm but not hot weather, and minimal tourist chaos. Avoid October–December if you don’t vibe with sudden rain and gloomy beach days.

Top Attractions

• My Khe Beach
• Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge
• Marble Mountains
• Dragon Bridge
• Sun World Theme Park
• Han Market

Why It Hits

Da Nang is like the middle child that finally took center stage. If you’re all about relaxing in the day and exploring at night, Da Nang deserves a top spot on your list among the best places to visit in Vietnam.

6. Ninh Binh (Tam Coc & Trang An)

Imagine cruising through rice fields surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Now add caves, ancient temples, and zero crowds. Welcome to Ninh Binh,aka “Halong Bay on land.” It’s hands down one of the most underrated places to see in Vietnam, but trust us, it is unique. Located just a couple hours from Hanoi, this peaceful paradise gives nature, culture, and chill all in one go.

Best Time to Visit

Go in March to May or September to November for that perfect golden field glow. These months offer the best weather for boat rides and hiking without sweating.

Top Attractions

• Tam Coc
• Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
• Bich Dong Pagoda
• Mua Cave Viewpoint
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Thung Nham Bird Park

Why It Hits

Ninh Binh is like Halong’s introverted cousin, less flashy, more soulful. It’s one of the Vietnam tourist places that’s all about nature and chill, minus the boat-party crowd. For couples, solo travelers, and anyone dodging chaos, it’s easily among the best places to visit in Vietnam.

7. Ba Be National Park

Looking to go off-grid for a hot second? Ba Be National Park is your move. Tucked away in Northern Vietnam, this underrated paradise is all about waterfalls, jungle treks, limestone caves, and the largest natural freshwater lake in the country—Lake Ba Be. This place is raw, remote, and amazingly peaceful. You won’t find crowds or city noise here. 

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November are best. These months give you dry, comfy weather for hiking, boating, and exploring caves. Rainy season (June–August) makes trails slippery and views misty, not ideal unless you like mud.

Top Attractions

• Ba Be Lake
• Puong Cave
• Dau Dang Waterfall
• Hua Ma Cave
• Ethnic Villages
• Jungle Treks

Why It Hits

Ba Be is nature’s flex. No Wi-Fi, no noise, just raw Vietnamese wilderness. If you’ve hit the popular spots and want something pure and untouched, this is the spot for you. So yeah, Ba Be is easily one of the most peaceful, scenic places to visit in Vietnam, especially if your vibe is “escape everything.”

8. Ti Top Island

Floating in the middle of Halong Bay, Ti Top Island is small but mighty. Don’t let the size fool you—this island is one of the best places to see in Vietnam if you want that 360° panoramic view of limestone cliffs meeting emerald waters. It’s also one of the few spots in the bay where you can actually chill on a beach or climb a hilltop for THAT view.

Named after a Russian astronaut (cool trivia), Ti Top is your Halong Bay highlight if you’re into mini adventures with max payoff. Sunset here? Unreal!

Best Time to Visit

Head to Ti Top Island between October and April. The skies are clear, water’s calm, and you won’t sweat buckets on that stair climb. Summer is fine, but it gets touristy and humid.

Top Activities

• Hilltop Hike
• Beach Chill
• Photography
• Kayaking Around the Island
• Snorkeling (Seasonal
• Picnic Break

Why It Hits

Ti Top Island is compact but delivers BIG. Whether you’re cruising Halong Bay or doing a day trip, make sure this one’s on your hit list. For real, among all the places to visit in Vietnam, Ti Top is that hidden cherry on top of your Halong Bay cruise.

9. Hoi An – Ancient Town

Hoi An is what Pinterest boards are made of. Lanterns light up cobbled streets, rivers reflect golden sunsets, and ancient architecture meets cute cafés at every turn. Once a major trading port, Hoi An has kept its old-school soul while adding just enough modern spice to keep things fun. Hoi An is one of the most aesthetic and relaxed places to visit in Vietnam if you’re into cultural deep dives or dreamy date nights.

Best Time to Visit

The magic truly hits from February to April when the weather is sunny but not scorching. Avoid the rainy season from September to December unless you’re cool with puddle-hopping between temples.

Top Attractions

• Hoi An Ancient Town
• Japanese Covered Bridge
• Lantern Festival
• Riverside Boat Ride
• Tailor Shops
• An Bang Beach

Why It Hits

Hoi An is a total vibe shift. From loud cities to peaceful alleys filled with flower carts and music, it’s one of the best places to visit in Vietnam when you want to slow down. 

10. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is not a single place, it’s a whole vibe. Think coconut trees swaying over muddy rivers, boats full of mangoes, and peaceful villages floating between rice paddies. It’s Southern Vietnam at its most raw and real. Life here runs on river time, and everything, from grocery shopping to school runs, happens on boats. 

Best Time to Visit

December to April is the dry season, and the best time to visit. You’ll get sunny skies, smooth boat rides, and easier access to remote villages. Rainy season is beautiful too, but boat travel gets tricky.

Top Attractions

• Floating Markets (Cai Rang, Phong Dien)
• Boat Tours
• Vinh Trang Pagoda
• Fruit Orchards
• Local Homestays
• Sam Mountain (Chau Doc)

Why It Hits

If you want a break from tourist zones and want to experience Vietnam from the inside out, this is it. Out of all the places to see in Vietnam, the Mekong gives you stories you’ll actually remember.

11. Chàm Islands (near Hoi An) 

Need a digital detox with crystal-clear waters and serious beach chill? Say less. The Chàm Islands, just a short speedboat ride from Hoi An, are your go-to escape. This tiny cluster of islands brings tropical energy with white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and eco-friendly vibes. Motorbikes are banned here, and even Wi-Fi can be spotty, which is low-key the best part. These islands are among the most peaceful places to visit in Vietnam, where nature wins and time slows down.

Best Time to Visit

Plan your island escape between March and September. That’s when the waters are calm, clear, and perfect for swimming or diving. Avoid October to February, boats stop running due to rough seas.

Top Attractions

• Bai Chong Beach
• Snorkeling Spots
• Cham Marine Park
• Cu Lao Cham Museum
• Local Seafood Shacks
• Boat Rides

Why It Hits

Chàm Islands are one of those Vietnam tourist places that give you space to breathe. No city buzz, no traffic horns, just waves, sunshine, and good food. If you’re already in Hoi An, this is the ultimate side quest that’s 100 percent worth it.

12. Pu Luong Nature Reserve

If your soul needs healing from green hills and rice terraces, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is calling. Tucked away in north-central Vietnam, this underrated place has a lot to offer without the crowds and chaos, just a peaceful environment. You’ll find lush valleys, stilt-house villages, bamboo water wheels, and some of the most beautiful rice terraces. 

Best Time to Visit

Plan your Pu Luong adventure for May to June or September to October. These are peak terrace seasons, when everything is either bright green or golden and harvest-ready. The weather is cooler and ideal for hiking too.

Top Attractions

• Kho Muong Village
• Pu Luong Rice Terraces
• Hieu Waterfall
• Eco-Treks
• Bamboo Water Wheels
• Son-Ba-Muoi Loop

Why It Hits

If you love nature but hate crowds, this is your dream trek zone. Add it to your places to see in Vietnam list if you’re craving green vibes, quiet mornings, and starlit nights.

13. Hue (Imperial City)

If you’re into palaces, dragon mosaics, and vibes that scream royal legacy, Hue is your next stop. Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, this historic city sits quietly along the Perfume River and tells stories through citadels, temples, and tombs of Nguyen emperors. It’s got a calm energy, but the layers of history? Deep. Hue is one of the most culturally rich places to visit in Vietnam, giving you ancient realness with a peaceful twist.

Best Time to Visit

January to April is perfect. Expect mild temperatures, less rain, and ideal walking weather for exploring old ruins without sweating buckets. Avoid the rainy season (September–December) unless you’re bringing a boat and good humor.

Top Attractions

• Imperial Citadel (Kinh Thanh Hue)
• Thien Mu Pagoda
• Tomb of Khai Dinh
• Perfume River Cruise
• Dong Ba Market
• Royal Theater

Why It Hits

Hue is less about adrenaline and more about soaking in stories, architecture, and heritage. Among the best places to visit in Vietnam, Hue offers that nostalgic royal flair you won’t find anywhere else.

14. Quang Binh – Adventure Hub

Ready to trade cities for caves, rivers, and serious explorer vibes? Welcome to Quang Binh, Vietnam’s hidden adventure hub. Home to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and the world’s largest cave, this place is for travelers who prefer boots over flip-flops. You won’t just see nature—you’ll crawl through it, kayak across it, and maybe even camp inside it. If you’re listing the most thrilling places to visit in Vietnam, Quang Binh is the GOAT.

It’s rugged, it’s wild, and honestly? It feels like Vietnam’s Jurassic Park (minus the dinos, of course).

Best Time to Visit

Visit between February and August. These are dry months when you can fully explore caves and national parks without river levels messing with your plans. Avoid October to December—it’s rainy and most caves close.

Top Attractions

• Son Doong Cave
• Phong Nha Caves
• Paradise Cave
• Dark Cave (Hang Toi)
• Botanic Garden Hike
• Nuoc Mooc Spring

Why It Hits

Quang Binh is for people who pack headlamps and hiking shoes. It’s cool for raw nature, zero filters, and big adventure energy. If you’ve been there, done that—this is your plot twist.

15. Cu Chi Tunnels

Want to crawl through Vietnam’s past—literally? Cu Chi Tunnels are where it’s at. Located just outside Ho Chi Minh City, this massive underground network was used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war for shelter, communication, and surprise attacks. Spoiler: the tunnels are tight. But they’re also mind-blowing in design, purpose, and intensity. 

Best Time to Visit

December to April is your best bet. Dry season means better outdoor conditions for crawling around, walking through the forest paths, and checking out displays without sticky heat or rain puddles.

Top Attractions

• Tunnel Crawl
• Booby Trap Exhibit
• Underground Rooms
• Tank Displays
• Rifle Range
• Cu Chi Forest Trails

Why It Hits

Cu Chi Tunnels aren’t just another box to tick—they hit you in the gut. It’s one of the most unforgettable places to see in Vietnam if you want real stories over scenic selfies. Plus, it adds depth to your understanding of how tough and strategic the Vietnamese resistance really was.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s got a range, from ancient cities and quiet mountains to tropical islands and underground tunnels. Whatever your vibe, there’s a spot waiting for you. Ready to explore the best places to visit in Vietnam? Let Wonder World Travels craft your perfect trip with an affordable Vietnam tour package that includes all the fun. We’ll handle the details, you just bring the wanderlust and camera. Let’s go!