Vietnam is a nation of huge contrasts, immense cultural diversity, and breath-taking natural wonders that can keep its travellers – ranging from back packers to the world’s elite – entertained for weeks if not months.

With its rice paddies, undulating hills, unspoiled beaches, lush jungle, modern cities, and French colonial architecture, the Southeast Asian nation is a magnet for lovers of authentic culture, pristine nature, urban life, and rich history.

Vietnam is an extraordinary country that touches the hearts and souls of all who visit, leaving them wishing for more time to explore and discover its unique culture. Whether you eat your way through a country, are looking for the best beaches or want to get off the beaten track, Vietnam is the place for you.

A land of colonization and many past struggles, Vietnam is known today for its tenacious yet friendly people, delicious food, and spectacular natural attractions. Boasting beautiful beaches, chaotic and captivating cities, stretching lush rice paddies, historical sites, and some spectacular natural attractions, Vietnam offers something for everyone.

City-lovers will enjoy the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, whereas those who prefer a more laid-back experience will find many delights in places like Hoi An, Hue, and Danang. Beach aficionados should check out the soft white sands of Phu Quoc Island, the party hotspot of Nha Trang, marvellous Mui Ne, and peaceful Doc Let.

If drooling over breath-taking scenery is more your thing, Ha Long Bay won’t disappoint! Steeped in local legends and famous for its dramatic karst seascapes, enjoy exploring the gorgeous bay by boat, perhaps spending a few nights on one of the beautiful islands. Tam Coc is another top spot for magical vistas. Sapa is a terrific place if you’re dreaming of outdoor explorations and endless days of hiking and interacting with local villagers.

And these are just a few of the highlights! Enter intriguing caves, marvel at striking waterfalls, cycle around rural villages, shop in bustling markets, and learn more about the country’s history and culture. Check out our Vietnam recommendations and reviews for even more inspiration, practical tips, accommodation ideas, transportation options, and more. Have a fantastic adventure in Vietnam!

Places to visit in Vietnam

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, in northern Vietnam, is dotted with 1,600 limestone islands and islets and covers an area of over 1,500sqkm. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, for many visitors, this surrealistic place is like something right out of a movie. Approximately a four-hour drive from downtown Hanoi, the area is also home to different kinds of limestone caves such as phreatic caves, karstic foot caves and marine notch caves. Activities include exploring the many cave formations, kayaking around rocky outcrops and watching the wildlife

2. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an intriguing relic of Vietnam’s history and, signifying its historical and cultural importance, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Standing 40 metres high, the central flag tower is the most recognizable feature of the Imperial Citadel and is often used as a symbol of Hanoi. This was the centre of ancient Hanoi and served as the political centre for eight centuries. Located in Ba Dinh, the Imperial Citadel houses foundations of old palaces, relics, ancient roads, ponds and wells

3. Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town offers a breath-taking mix of ornate Chinese temples, a Japanese-designed bridge, wooden shop-houses, French-colonial houses, and old canals. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, most of the old shops have been carefully converted to modern businesses aimed at tourists including countless tailors, souvenir shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafés. An entrance fee of VND 120,000 is required for foreign tourists and VND 80,000 for locals – each ticket is valid for 10 days and covers entrance to entrance to Hoi An Ancient Town, six points of interest, and street entertainment (folk dancing, singing, and traditional games).

4. Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh is arguably the most popular political figure in Vietnam, and is known to his people as ‘Uncle Ho’. His body is preserved here in a glass case at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in central Hanoi (albeit against his wishes). Started in 1973, the construction of the mausoleum was modelled on Lenin’s mausoleum in Russia. Entrance is free of charge, and visitors are required to dress appropriately out of respect for Vietnam’s departed leader.

5. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are basically a huge war museum offering visitors a sneak peak at the underground life of Viet Cong-era soldiers. Comprising more than 120km of tunnels, they were first started around 1948 when the Viet Cong were fighting the French. The work never stopped and resulted in a massive collection of tunnels. Today, it is one of Ho Chi Minh’s most iconic attractions where visitors can enjoy activities such as following the claustrophobia-inducing routes of the underground army, firing an M16 assault rifle, as well sampling meals that the underground soldiers had to live with years ago

6. My Son Sanctuary

My Son Hindu Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great sample of the ancient Champa civilization located in the southern part of Vietnam. It was an independent state from around the 2nd to the 17th century, at which time it was occupied by Vietnam. The complex houses around 70 structures devoted to Hindu gods and goddesses and the most noticeable one, Shiva, was considered the protector of the Champa’s kings

7. Complex of Hue Monuments

Hue Imperial City, set along the northern bank of the Perfume River, features hundreds of monuments dating back to early 19th century, including the Forbidden Purple City, royal tombs, pagodas, temples, royal quarters, a library and museum, Also called the Complex of Hue Monuments, this UNESCO World Heritage Site also hosts daily cultural performances at 09:00, 10:00, 14:30 and 15:30. Entrance fee is priced at VND 150,000, which combines visits to both Hue Imperial City and Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities. A 30-minute drive from Phu Bai International Airport, Hue Imperial City is a must-visit for any visitor to Central Vietnam

8. War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum once known as the ‘Museum of American War Crimes’ first opened to the public in 1975. It’s a shocking reminder of the long and brutal Vietnam War with many graphic photographs and American military equipment on display. All these weapons were used by America against the Vietnamese. The War Remnants Museum is in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City and is run by the government. It is open all year round from 07:30 to17:00. A visit to this war museum is a disturbing experience for most people and may not be suitable for children (though they are allowed to enter)

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Par

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a popular option for adventurous travellers looking to explore its many limestone caves and grottoes. Set within the Quang Binh Province, it’s home to the world’s largest cave, Son Doong, with sections reaching up to 200m in height, as well as Paradise Cave, which boasts spectacular shapes of limestone stalactites and stalagmites. Entrance to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park costs VND 40,000, plus additional fees (between VND 80,000 and (VND 150,000) to enter the caves. Hiking, mountain-biking, and cave expeditions are regularly organized by tour operators in Vietnam

10. The Sand Dunes of Mui Ne

The Sand Dunes of Mui Ne are two geological wonders no visitor should ever miss out on their travel itinerary. There are numerous tour operators in Mui Ne that organize daytrips to these Saharan-like red and white sand dunes, but you can easily make your way to both locales if you prefer exploring according to your own pace. Visitors can rent plastic sleds and it is a wise idea to check the price and agree on it beforehand. Another interesting activity is kite flying as well as catching the beautiful sunset here. These dunes are a popular picnic place for locals too.