Vietnam is one of the most popular international travel destinations among tourists. Besides being relatively affordable, the country offers a complete package of attractions. Known as the “Land of the Blue Dragon,” places in Vietnam boast stunning natural destinations, from beaches and rivers to mountains.
Among all these attractions, we’ve rounded up some of the most famous tourist spots in Vietnam. These are must-visit destinations for travelers exploring this beautiful ASEAN country. So, what places should you visit when traveling to Vietnam? Here’s the list!
Places You Need to Visit in Vietnam
Here are various places in Vietnam you need to visit when you’re having a vacation in the country:
1. Ha Long Bay
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One of most iconic places in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northeastern Vietnam, specifically in Quang Ninh Province. The name Ha Long itself means “descending dragon.” This place is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring thousands of limestone karsts and small islets dramatically rising from the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.
The bay lies about 170 kilometers (105 miles) east of Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. The lush greenery covering the limestone formations adds even more charm to Ha Long Bay’s stunning landscape.
2. Marble Mountains
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The next must-visit destination in Vietnam is the Marble Mountains, known as Ngu Hanh Son in Vietnamese. This cluster of five limestone and marble hills is located just south of Da Nang in Central Vietnam. The mountains are a popular tourist attraction because of their cultural, historical, and natural significance.
The Marble Mountains are not only a site of religious and cultural importance but also offer a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional craftsmanship. The area attracts both pilgrims and travelers eager to explore its caves and pagodas while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
3. Phu Quoc
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Vietnam is a paradise for beach lovers. In addition to Ha Long, travelers can enjoy the stunning beauty of Phu Quoc Island, located near Cambodia and Thailand. With its pristine white sands, Phu Quoc is often called Pearl Island. The island has been recognized as part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2006. Beyond its picturesque beaches, visitors can marvel at vibrant coral reefs, explore lush tropical forests, and savor the island’s unique local cuisine.
4. Nha Trang
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Nha Trang is a city located at the heart of Vietnam’s tourism scene, making its beaches easily accessible. The city is famous for its beautiful coastline, diving activities, and various tourist attractions. One of Nha Trang’s main highlights is its stunning beach.
With soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, Nha Trang Beach is a favorite spot for sunbathing, swimming, and soaking in the beauty of Vietnam’s coastline.
5. Da Nang
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Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s top tourist cities, offering a wide range of attractions. The city is best known for My Khe Beach, a stunning stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear water. Often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
It’s a popular destination for relaxing and swimming. Beyond the beach, Da Nang boasts a modern city center filled with shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment spots.
6. Hoi An
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Another must-visit destination in Vietnam is Hoi An, a paradise for history and culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore its unique architecture, which beautifully blends Chinese, Japanese, and European influences.
Some notable landmarks include the Japanese Bridge, Tan Ky House, and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. Thanks to its rich heritage, Hoi An has been designated both a National Cultural Heritage Site of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
7. Sapa Terraces
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The Sapa Terraces are located in the town of Sapa, in the mountainous region of northern Vietnam. Sapa is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, especially its stunning terraced rice fields.
The local farmers have created these beautiful terrace systems over generations, forming a harmonious blend of human creativity and nature’s beauty, set against the backdrop of Vietnam’s majestic mountain scenery.
8. Ba Na Hills
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Another places in Vietnam to visit is Ba Na Hills, located to the west of Da Nang, about a half-hour drive from the city center. One of its main attractions is the Ba Na cable car, which holds the record as one of the longest cable car routes in the world.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views while riding the cable car. The area also features a charming French-style village, filled with various restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines and prices, making it a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural experience.
9. Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park
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Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park has been recognized twice by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site. Located in Quang Binh Province, Central Vietnam, the park is renowned for its karst landscapes and extensive cave systems, some of the largest and most spectacular in the world.
In addition to its stunning geological formations, the national park is home to rich biodiversity, including many rare and endangered species of plants and animals, making it a true natural treasure of Vietnam.
10. Jade Emperor Pagoda
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Located in Ho Chi Minh City, The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a temple that is over a hundred years old, known for its distinctive architecture featuring tiered roofs, intricate wooden carvings, and ornate statues. The pagoda creates a sacred and traditional atmosphere typical of Vietnamese Buddhist temples. It is also famous for its exquisite collection of handcrafted statues.
Beyond being a place of worship, the Jade Emperor Pagoda plays an important role in preserving Vietnam’s history and culture. It has become a popular attraction for visitors seeking to experience both the spiritual essence and the artistic beauty of traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship.
Those are some recommended places in Vietnam to visit as a tourist attraction you can choose from. Don’t forget to note down the places you want to visit so you won’t miss any of them. Also, make sure to create an itinerary that fits the duration of your trip to Vietnam.