ShashwatFrom the bustling streets of the Ho Chi Minh and the composed rice fields of Ninh Binh to the world-famous Ha Long Bay and the hidden gem of Son Doong Cave, Vietnam offers too many diverse locations and mesmerizing landscapes to cater to all kinds of travelers wanting an experience of a lifetime.
With awe-inspiring natural locales, villages rich in culture and historic values and one of the world’s most delicious coffees, Vietnam has become a very interesting and attractive destination in recent years.
Today, we learn about some of the must-visit and most beautiful places in Vietnam.
Table of Contents
20 Most Beautiful Places in Vietnam
1. Ha Long Bay: A Natural Wonder
Dotted with thousands of limestone karsts & islets, Ha Long Bay attracts most tourists and travel lovers to the country from across the globe. Explore hidden caves, go kayaking with you better half, witness stunning sunsets and relax with the emerald waters at this marvelous destination.
What makes Ha Long Bay one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam is the awe-inspiring limestone mountains topped by a thick jungle-growth, rising up above the emerald waters, which date back to thousands of years.
You can also get to explore the serene aquatic world at the Ha Long (Descending Dragon) Bay’ Coral Reefs. With a wide variety of unique ships, mollusks, silkworms and crabs, etc. this place is an exciting location for marine-enthusiasts.
2. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Home to Son Doong Cave
With a unique biodiversity, epic cave systems and attractive scenic views of the lush forest, this place makes its way on our list of the most beautiful places in Vietnam for tourists.
The national park has a diverse range of flora and fauna which includes many different species of plants and age-old trees and wildflowers along with a few endangered and endemic wild animal species like the Saola, a rare, elusive antelope-like animal.
The major attraction of the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is none other than the largest and most impressive cave to ever exist in our world – the Son Doong Cave.
Exploring this underground wonder is said to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you witness colossal chambers adorned with breathtaking stalactites (or those icicle shaped formations you must have seen in an adventure series or a movie).
3. Ninh Binh: The Inland Ha Long Bay
Just as much as the Ha Long Bay is famous, so is this Inland Ha Long Bay or the Ha Long Bay on Land, Ninh Binh. Just as Ha Long is at the sea, so is Ninh Binh – except, it forms those stunning limestone mountains atop the rice fields and tranquil rivers floating by.
Boat rides through these rivers is a very popular thing to do while here for the locals as well as the travelers. You get to go through mesmerizing caves and limestone formations, while being surrounded by well-maintained rice fields and ancient temples.
One of the largest Buddhist pagodas in Southeast Asia, the Bai Dinh Pagoda can also be found here and makes Ninh Binh one of the most highly revered and most beautiful places in Vietnam.
4. Mekong Delta: A River’s Tale
Ah, this marvelous maze of waterways, floating markets and lush landscapes is another one of the many astonishing and must-visit places in the entirety of Vietnam.
The Mekong Delta is also referred as the Rice Bowl of Vietnam due to its extensive rice cultivation and its fertile soil. It is a popular destination for its vibrant markets, culture and the incredibly famous: Perfume River.
What makes this one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam, is not just the mere views of the dreamy landscapes, but the opportunity to deep dive into the culture of the destination, formed mostly by the Kinh, Khmer and a few Chinese communities.
5. Da Nang: A Coastal Gem
If you want a more honeymoon worthy destination in Vietnam, visit Da Nang: a city known for beautiful beaches, historical sites and modern infrastructure.
Da Nag boasts a number of cultural and historical attractions like the Marble Mountains, which is a cluster of five limestone and marble hills. It is popular for the caves, pagodas and the panoramic views of the city along the coastline.
The city of Da Nang is also considered to be one among the most beautiful places in Vietnam due to its impressive bridges, like the Dragon Bridge which breathes out fire and water on weekend eves and the Thuan Phuoc Bridge that gets wonderfully illuminated at the night hours.
6. Ho Chi Minh City: A City of Contrasts
Everyone has heard about this one on today’s list of the most beautiful places in Vietnam and there is no denying that Ho Chi Minh City is the most popular and the most vibrant city in the country.
The most striking features of the city is the dynamic energy that it preserves. The streets are filled with constant stream of motorbikes, street vendors offering delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and a diverse mix of people from different walks of life.
Other than the bustling and fast pace vibes that the city boasts, Ho Chi Minh also has a wide range of attractions and places to visit: including the historic sites like the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels and other architectural marvel landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Central Post Office.
7. Phu Quoc Island: Tropical Paradise
Located in the gulf of Thailand, this masterpiece of a tropical landscape has all one needs from a coastal destination: stunning beaches, lush jungles and outstanding coral reefs. Soaring with water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, underwater experience and witnessing the magical coral reefs, the island is a place that just cannot be missed, especially if you are here as a couple.
The Phu Quoc Island has gained immense popularity as one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam and the largest island in the country.
Phu Quoc is said to be a place that is perfect as a honeymoon destination no matter if you’re a local or a globe trotter. With the coastal terrains, beautiful beaches, water sports and activities, mouth-watering cuisine and an immersive cultural experience, there’s just so much to love about this place.
8. Da Lat: The City of Eternal Spring
Da Lat is another stunning town, situated in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It offers a pleasant climate most of the year, lush greens and the wonderous French colonial architecture attracts even more travel lovers and enthusiasts to this part of the country.
From the vibrance of Flower Gardens to the cable car ride to Truc Lam Zen Monastery and the picturesque landscapes, there’s plenty of things that make Da Lat one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.
Some of the unmissable attractions in the city include: Xuan Huong Lake, the Da Lat Flower Gardens and the Linh Phuoc Pagoda. You can also find some of the very renowned waterfalls of the country here: the Datanla and Pongour Falls.
9. Ha Giang Province: Off the Beaten Path
Going little offbeat in our venture through the most beautiful places in Vietnam, we come across this place filled with a heavily dramatic and untouched scenic views.
Ha Giang Province is a captivating and remote location in the northernmost part of the country and it is known for dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, vibrant ethnic cultures and a hub for adventure activities.
The most iconic feature of the Ha Giang is this jaw-dropping UNESCO-designated site called the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. With stunning limestone formations, deep canyons and meandering rivers, this place boasts of the most spectacular scenic landscapes and natural wonders in the entirety of Southeast Asia.
10. Nha Trang: Beach Bliss
Another among the most beautiful places in Vietnam catering to the beach lovers and water sport enthusiasts, Nha Trang is also referred as the Riviera of the South China Sea and boasts about its picturesque shoreline and warm, tropical climate.
Nha Trang is said to have the most beautiful sandy beaches in Vietnam, the most famous of these being the Nha Trang Beach. It is a long stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming and other water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling and jet-skiing.
When you’re done with the incredible beach scenes, Nha Trang offers one of the most vibrant nightlife scenes in Vietnam. The city tends to come alive after dark with numerous bars, nightclubs and restaurants offering a wide variety of entertainment and boozy options.
11. Cat Ba: Gateway to Lan Ha Bay
Cat Ba Island is the gateway to reach Lan Ha Bay: imagine Ha Long Bay, but with lesser crowds. It offers similar stunning limestone karsts like the Ha Long Bay does and offers a unique, kind-a private experience of beaches and lush jungles.
Situated amidst the Ha Long Bay, the Cat Ba Island is a gem of natural beaty and is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. The unique blend of rugged limestone cliffs, hidden coves and emerald waters.
If you want fascinating hiking trails to explore, you can visit the Cat Ba National Park within the island. And you get to discover hidden caves, panoramic viewpoints and vibrant wildlife. This park is a protected area and home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.
12. Hoi An: A Charming Ancient Town
A charming coastal town in Vietnam, Hoi An is popular for its well-preserved historic architecture and its status as another UNESCO world heritage site. This enchanting destination is often described as a living museum, with a harmonious blend of cultures from China, Japan and Europe.
Hoi An is pretty famous for its iconic annual lantern festival, taking place during the Full Moon each month. During the festival, the streets of the city are all adorned with colorful lanterns, traditional music, dance performances and street food vendors.
Also, Hoi An is a town of art, where you can get custom-made clothing, shoes and handicrafts. Visitors can have clothing tailored to their specs within a day or two, and the quality and craftsmanship are often exceptional.
13. Mui Ne Sand Dunes: Desert Beauty
What? You thought it’s just the beaches, the coastal lands and the hi-top mountains here in Vietnam that you shall plan out for your next trip? Well, think again! The Mui Ne Sand Dunes is a vibrant space where red and white dunes meet the turquoise waters of the sea. It’s just as magical as it sounds.
Often referred as the Desert of Vietnam, this one on our most beautiful places in Vietnam list, is famous for its two main sets of sand dunes: the White Sand Dunes and the Red Sand Dunes: where one is known for its white expanse of pristine sand and another for a more vibrant red-orange hues, especially during sunrise and sunset.
One can enjoy activities like sand sledding and quad biking on these dunes, making it a fun and adventurous destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
14. Sa Pa (Sapa): Mountain Retreat
Known for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages, Sa Pa is one of the most outstanding trek spots in Vietnam. With the rolling green hills, dramatic valleys and towering peaks including Fansipan, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, the town of Sa Pa is a hub for trekking and adventure enthusiasts.
There are plenty trekking routes which lead you through the ethnic minority villages, where you can interact with local communities like the Hmong, Dao and Tay. These encounters provide a unique opportunity to learn about the different cultures, traditions and handicrafts.
In addition to being one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam, Sa Pa offers a range of mountain retreat accommodations, restaurants with stunning views and markets to take back souvenirs.
15. Quy Nhon: Coastal Serenity
Vietnam is a place full of magical coastal serenity full of world’s most beautiful beaches, clear waters and serene ambiance. So here comes another destination in the country where you can just sit back, sip you favorite cocktails and explore the coastal lands with your loved ones – Quy Nhon.
One of the most beautiful places in Vietnam, Quy Nhon is a tranquil coastal escape is place full of history, culture and natural beauty all tossed into each other. The city is home to various temples, pagodas and historical sites like the Banh It Towers – which are ancient Cham towers dating back to the 11th century.
You can get the country’s most delicious seafood cuisine in this little and pretty coastal town. It is the most delightful aspect of Quy Nhon for many visitors as it allows one to experience the authentic flavors of Vietnamese coastal cuisine in a less touristy environment.
16. Ban Gioc Waterfall: Nature’s Majesty
Often referred as the Niagara of Asia, Ban Gion Waterfall (or the Detian Falls) is the largest waterfall in Vietnam and the largest transnational waterfall in Southeast Asia – falling between Vietnam and China.
Nestled among the lush green forests and towering karst mountains, this Falls is roughly 30 meters in height and spans over 300 meters in width – making it an awe-inspiring sight to watch. The Detian Falls’ surrounding area is relatively undeveloped, which means it provides a serene and unspoiled environment for those who visit here.
With the most interesting waterfalls, comes the most thunderous sounds as the water crashes down and the mist fills in the air, creating a truly immersive experience for the visitors. You can enjoy boat rides to get closer to the waterfall, hike along the photographic trails and witness one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.
17. Huįŗæ: Imperial Heritage
The imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945, the city of Huįŗæ is renowned for being one of the most historic, royal and most beautiful places in Vietnam. The most iconic landmark of the city, the Imperial City (or Citadel) is a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls and gates and it offers a glimpse into the mysterious past of the Vietnamese land.
Aside from the historical significance, the city also is celebrated to be one of the best places to eat in Vietnam. With a royal and delicious culinary heritage, the Huįŗæ cuisine is often called as the Cuisine of the Kings.
You can get royal dishes, featuring an intricate preparation and presentation. You must try the traditional cuisine when you are in and around this city – especially the bĆŗn bĆ² Huįŗæ (spicy beef noodle soup) and bĆ”nh khoĆ”i (a crispy, savory pancake). You can find these in any local restaurant or at the street markets as well.
18. My Son: Ancient Ruins
My Son is where you find most of the Hindu Temple ruins in the lush, deep jungle, showcasing the prowess of the Champa Kingdom. Despite the war damage, My Son is still a very popular place to visit in Vietnam where to the blend of history, archaeology and culture makes for a compelling story of the past.
Situated near the town of Hoi An, this archaeological gem in the central Vietnam is a great place of historical and cultural significance, known for its well preserved temples and ruins.
The temples in this ancient region are a testament to the architectural and artistic achievement of the Champa people. They mostly used red brick and adorned the structures with intricate carvings and sculptures, while showcasing the influence of Hinduism on the culture of Champa. You can find out when you visit that this place is dedicated to various Hindu deities, the most prominent being Shiva.
19. Cat Tien National Park: Wildlife Sanctuary
Whether you are an eco-tourist seeking adventure amidst the forest or a cultural enthusiast interested in learning about the historical significance of the area, the Cat Tien National Park has something for you.
The park is home to an array of wildlife, including a variety of bird species both local and traveling ones. It is one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Visitors can explore the park’s dense forests through various hiking trails – making this one another hiking land in our list today.
The wild animals you can find here include many endangered species such as Asian elephants, Indochinese tigers and Javan rhinoceroses. You might also find several species of Gibbons, Sun Bears (smallest bear species), Dhole or Wild Dogs and a few reptiles and unique insects as well.
20. Hanoi: Capital Charm
Last but never the least, how can we forget the capital of the country. Hanoi offers stunning modern landscapes with colonial architecture, ancient temples and vibrant street life. The streets of Hanoi are always, day and night, buzzing with energy. Motorbikes weave through the traffic, the aroma of scrumptious street food fills in the air and street vendors hawk their goods.
People love to explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake and try out the authentic Vietnamese cuisine and pancakes on there day tours here. The city actually comes alive with cultural festivals, traditional performances and a thriving art scene. That is when this city becomes one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.
You have numerous things to keep you busy and entertained if you are in the city. From strolling around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, watch a puppet show, explore the vibrant nightlife in the French Quarter and so much more.
Wrapping it up
There are many beautiful places to visit in Vietnam and so much to do and experience in this destination filled with natural beauty, stunning architectures, mouth-watering cuisine and a lot of well-preserved history.
From the enchanting Ha Long Bay and the mystical Son Doong Cave to the tranquil rice fields of Ninh Binh and the bustling markets of the Mekong Delta, you can choose what suits you the best and plan your next trip without stressing. Which is pretty easy since Vietnam is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the world.
So, pack your bags, embark on this incredible journey, and discover the most beautiful places in Vietnam. Share this blog post with everyone around you who loves to travel and feel free to comment your thoughts down below.
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