7 Must Visit Places in Vietnam You Can’t Miss

Vietnam is one of those countries that truly has it all: mountains, beaches, world-class street food, bustling cities, a peaceful countryside, and a rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who’s returning for more, narrowing down where to go can be tough, because there’s so much to explore.

That’s where this list of must-visit places in Vietnam comes in. I’ve laid out seven destinations that showcase the country’s diversity, from the north to the south, from iconic cities to serene natural landscapes.

These places each bring something different to the table, and by the end, you’ll get a feel for just how multifaceted Vietnam really is.

I first visited Vietnam a few years ago, spending a total of three unforgettable months there.

The many sceneries I experienced, warm interactions, rich cultural moments, excellent hospitality from the locals, and outstanding new cuisines I discovered made me addicted to Vietnam. Ever since, I’ve found myself returning to visit yearly, Vietnam keeps pulling me back.

Hanoi

If you’re trying to understand Vietnam’s identity, history, and heart, Hanoi is where you start.

The capital city seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern chaos in a genuinely fascinating way. It’s home to centuries-old pagodas, French colonial architecture, and war-era landmarks, all coexisting with busy cafés, food stalls, and buzzing motorbike traffic.

Hanoi’s role in shaping Vietnam’s political and cultural foundation makes it one of the must visit places in Vietnam without question.

When you’re in Hanoi, don’t miss strolling through the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets with each one traditionally selling a specific type of product (you’ll find everything from bamboo ladders to silk).

Grab a bowl of authentic pho in Hanoi at a no-frills eatery, catch a traditional water puppet show, or visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. For a deeper dive into the country’s past, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Vietnamese Women’s Museum are both worth a stop.

My tip? Find a small street-side stool, order an egg coffee (yes, it’s a thing, and it’s good), and just people-watch.

Hanoi has an edge, it’s gritty, but it also has soul. It’s a city that rewards those who take the time to look beyond the noise and embrace the layers of history and life happening all at once.

Plus, it’s a solid launchpad for adventures to places like Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa if you’ve got more time to spare. Refer to my 5 day itinerary for Hanoi to help you sort out your visit to Hanoi.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, and for good reason. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone karsts, is a natural wonder that perfectly captures the country’s scenic beauty.

It holds cultural and historical significance as well, with legends tied to dragons sent by the gods to protect Vietnam from invaders.

Halong Bay is a must-visit destination in Vietnam, showcasing the country’s unique geography, rich folklore, and tranquil side that contrasts with the energy of its big cities.

The best way to experience Halong Bay is by joining an overnight cruise. These cruises typically include meals, kayaking, cave exploration, swimming, and even cooking classes, all while sailing through one of the most surreal landscapes in Southeast Asia.

You can also visit floating fishing villages, explore hidden lagoons, or relax on the deck and watch the cliffs drift by. For a more budget-friendly alternative, you can base yourself in nearby Cat Ba Island and take day trips around the bay.

Here’s a quick tip: if you have the flexibility, opt for Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay instead of the main Halong Bay route. They’re part of the same ecosystem but see fewer tourists, making for a more peaceful and authentic experience.

Whether you choose a luxury cruise or a laid-back day tour, this region will leave a lasting impression. Halong Bay truly feels like stepping into a dream.

Sapa

Tucked away in the northern highlands of Vietnam, Sapa offers an entirely different energy than anywhere else in the country. Known for its terraced rice fields, misty mountains, and ethnic minority villages, Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most scenic and culturally rich areas.

It’s significant not just for its jaw-dropping natural beauty, but also for the deep cultural heritage it preserves, especially from groups such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people.

This is where tradition still beats strong, and visiting Sapa is a chance to see a more rural, unfiltered side of the country. That’s precisely why it’s one of the best destinations to visit in Vietnam.

When in Sapa, hiking is a must, and not just casual hiking. Trekking through the Muong Hoa Valley, you’ll pass by villages, rice terraces, and waterfalls, often guided by local women who’ve grown up in these mountains.

You can also take the cable car up to Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, for stunning panoramic views (clouds permitting). For something slower-paced, spend time in town exploring the Sapa Market, sampling local herbal teas, or trying dishes like thang co (a traditional hotpot).

And here’s something you might not expect: Sapa gets cold. Really cold. If you’re visiting in winter, don’t be surprised by frost on your window or the occasional snowfall.

That contrast, from Vietnam’s tropical beaches to snowy mountaintops, is part of what makes this country so fascinating. Just make sure to pack layers if you’re heading up north.

Hoi An

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most beloved towns, and for good reason. With its preserved ancient architecture, lantern-lit streets, and rich trading history, this central Vietnamese gem is like stepping into a painting.

Once a bustling port from the 15th to the 19th centuries, Hoi An is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that perfectly blends Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and European influences.

From its mustard-yellow French colonial buildings to its wooden Japanese Covered Bridge, every corner here tells a story. It’s a place where Vietnam’s history, craftsmanship, and cuisine are celebrated on every block.

You’ll want to spend at least a few days here. Wander the Ancient Town, especially at night when thousands of lanterns light up the sky. Get clothes tailor-made; Hoi An is renowned for its custom tailoring, offering quick turnaround times.

Take a cooking class, bike through the rice paddies to nearby beaches like An Bang, or join a sunset river cruise on the Thu Bon River, there’s plenty of things to do in Hoi An. And don’t leave without trying local dishes like cao lầu or white rose dumplings, both specialties you won’t find anywhere else in Vietnam.

While Hoi An is incredibly popular, it still maintains a slow and romantic charm that’s hard to resist. It’s an excellent spot for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking to take a breather without losing that cultural richness Vietnam is known for.

Plus, it’s super photogenic, so bring your camera and your appetite. Check out my Hoi An 3 day itienrary to get your travel plans sorted!

Hue

Hue is the cultural and historical heart of Vietnam. Once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, the city still carries echoes of its regal past through its architecture, cuisine, and deeply rooted traditions.

Located along the Perfume River, Hue is home to the famous Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and tombs. The best part is you can visit take a stunning scenery train to Hue from Da Nang!

Suppose you’re curious about the dynastic chapters of Vietnamese history and want to experience the country’s royal legacy firsthand. In that case, Hue deserves a spot in the top places in Vietnam to visit!

Start with the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s as grand as it is atmospheric. Then, visit the royal tombs, such as the Tomb of Khai Dinh or Minh Mang, each with unique architectural flair.

Don’t miss a peaceful dragon boat ride or a visit to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most iconic religious landmarks in the country. Hue also stands out for its cuisine, dishes like bún bò Huế, bánh bèo, and cơm hến offer a distinct culinary identity.

Hue moves at a slower pace than Hanoi or Hoi An, but that’s part of its charm. If you’re a fan of photography or history, the city’s misty mornings, historic architecture, and serene atmosphere offer a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City, still widely referred to as Saigon, is the economic engine and urban heart of southern Vietnam.

It’s a city where French colonial architecture meets glassy skyscrapers, where scooters dominate the streets, and where the energy never seems to fade.

Saigon plays a considerable role in Vietnam’s recent history, from its involvement in the Vietnam War to its rapid transformation into a modern global hub.

Culturally, it’s a melting pot, dynamic, youthful, and constantly evolving, making it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for those who want to feel the country’s urban pulse.

There are several essential experiences here. Visit the War Remnants Museum for a sobering but important perspective on Vietnam’s past.

Explore Ben Thanh Market for local eats and souvenirs, or walk down Dong Khoi Street to feel the pulse of Saigon’s commercial life. It’s difficult to get bored here, there’s plenty of things to do in Saigon.

Saigon is also a culinary powerhouse, from roadside banh mi stalls to elevated Vietnamese fusion restaurants, the city delivers some of the best food in Southeast Asia.

Don’t miss dishes like com tam (broken rice with grilled pork), Bo Kho (an aromatic Vietnamese beef stew), and banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancake).

For an authentic taste of local life, join a street food tour by scooter, one of the most exciting (and delicious) ways to experience the city.

Despite its chaos, Saigon has layers. Beneath the nonstop buzz is a city full of stories, complex history, and incredible Vietnamese food to try.

Whether you’re a history buff, a street food lover, or simply someone who thrives in big cities, Ho Chi Minh City offers a memorable, fast-paced experience that reveals another side of Vietnam.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is one of the most culturally rich and agriculturally vital regions in Vietnam. Nicknamed the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam,” this vast network of rivers, canals, and lush green fields plays a key role in the country’s food supply and daily life.

It’s where life moves to the rhythm of the water, with floating markets, stilt houses, and boats acting as both transportation and storefront.

The Delta offers a glimpse into a more traditional, rural Vietnam, making it one of those places where, if you want to experience authentic Vietnamese culture, it’s a must-see when in Southern Vietnam.

A visit to the Mekong Delta isn’t complete without experiencing a floating market, Cai Rang in Can Tho is the most famous. You’ll see vendors selling everything from pineapples to hot bowls of hủ tiếu directly from their boats.

Cruise the canals on a sampan boat, visit local workshops for rice paper or coconut candy, and explore nearby pagodas or Khmer temples.

Many travelers also enjoy homestays in the Delta, which offer a chance to live with a local family and savor home-cooked meals made from the freshest ingredients.

The Delta is about pace, slow and steady, deeply rooted in tradition. It’s a place to unwind, observe, and appreciate the quieter aspects of Vietnam’s beauty.

Visiting here adds a meaningful contrast to the fast-paced energy of cities like Ho Chi Minh, offering a more intimate understanding of Vietnamese life and heritage.

Getting Around Vietnam

Vietnam is a long and narrow country, so how you get around really depends on how far you’re traveling.

For covering significant distances, domestic flights are fast and affordable, while trains and sleeper buses offer a slower but scenic option. Within cities, ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek make getting around easy and budget-friendly.

Many first-time visitors look at a map and assume Vietnam is quick to cross, but it’s actually over 1,000 miles long.

Traveling between regions, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, can take anywhere from 33 to 40 hours by train. Flying is often the most efficient and time-saving way to explore the country’s highlights.

• Flights: The quickest way to travel between northern, central, and southern Vietnam. Domestic flights are affordable and frequent, with airlines like VietJet Air, Vietnam Airlines, and Bamboo Airways offering routes between major cities.

Here’s a quick tip for flying in Vietnam: if you have a visa to visit Vietnam, always carry a printed copy with you.

Additionally, if you prefer comfort, consider using Vietnam Airlines. If you’re looking for a budget option, try VietJet or Bamboo. Check SkyScanner to find the best flight deals!

• Trains: A scenic but slower option. The Reunification Express runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, offering views of rural landscapes and coastal towns. Ideal for those with time and seeking a relaxed travel experience.

• Buses: Great for budget travelers and short distances. Sleeper buses are ordinary for overnight trips between cities, but comfort and quality can vary depending on the provider. Check 12Go Asia for all the different bus routes in Vietnam.

Overnight sleeper buses may seem like a budget-friendly way to travel long distances. Still, they’ve been involved in multiple tourist accidents over the years due to poor road safety and driving standards.

One of the most common mistakes tourists make in Vietnam is underestimating these risks. When possible, opt for safer alternatives such as domestic flights or trains, especially for longer journeys.

• Ride-Sharing Apps: Grab is the most popular ride-sharing app in Vietnam, offering motorbike taxis, car rides, and even food delivery. It’s affordable, safe, and convenient for navigating urban areas.

Wrapping Up Vietnam’s Top Destinations

Vietnam is a country that surprises you in all the best ways, from the timeless charm of Hanoi to the breathtaking limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay, the imperial remnants of Hue, the flavorful chaos of Saigon, and the lush life of the Mekong Delta.

Whether you’re drawn by its history, cuisine, natural beauty, or local culture, each of these must-visit places in Vietnam offers something unique.

Together, they provide a well-rounded experience of what makes Vietnam a standout destination in Southeast Asia. Also, make sure to try the many must try Vietnamese coffees!

Years ago, I hadn’t even considered Vietnam. But after many late nights watching Anthony Bourdain express his deep admiration for the country, calling it his favorite in the world, my curiosity was sparked.

I see a lot of myself in him, and when he spoke about Vietnam, I listened. That’s what led me to commit to spending three months here on my first visit, and I’m beyond glad I did. RIP to him, my idol.

Since then, I’ve returned again and again. I won’t get too personal, but Vietnam has become a second home for me, a place I carry with me.

And each time I visit, my greatest joy is witnessing the resilience and growth of its people, especially given the difficult history they’ve endured.

This list is a great place to start, but Vietnam is a country that rewards those who take the time to explore. Each visit reveals new favorites, fosters deeper connections, and shares unforgettable stories. So take your time, travel smart, and let the magic of Vietnam do the rest.