Top 10 Must-Visit Cities in Vietnam for Travelers

Vietnam is a land where ancient history and vibrant modernity come together in perfect harmony, offering a rich blend of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Whether you're an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or foodie, Vietnam's cities hold a world of treasures. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Hoi An, the must-visit cities in Vietnam provide endless opportunities to explore the country’s unique charm. Ready to embark on a journey of discovery? Let’s dive into the best cities in Vietnam you should not miss!

1. Must-Visit Cities in Vietnam

Hanoi – The Cultural Heart of Vietnam

No trip to Vietnam could even be envisioned without a visit to its capital, Hanoi. Hanoi is famed for its historical sights, French colonial architecture, and rich culture. Hanoi blends old and new in lively colors.

• Key Attractions: Kick off with an adventure around the Old Quarter, a solid educative base of narrow streets, traditional shophouses, and the must-see Hoan Kiem Lake. Close by is the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and reflection of Hanoi's ancient history. Further down the line, there is Train Street, its narrow alleyways become a host for rumbling trains-a sight worth viewing on Instagram.
• Foodie Adventures: Hanoi is also famed for its street food named pho bo and bun cha. Take in the colorful night markets to savor the steaming bowl of goodness.
• Pro Tip: If you're looking for some astonishing city views, then the Lotte Tower Observation Deck at the time of sunset is decent.

Hoi An – A Lantern-Lit Ancient Town

Hoi An is sometimes referred to as the most beautiful town in Vietnam and is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hoi An is one of the best-preserved towns in Southeast Asia, with its merchant houses, temples, and tailor shops lit up on every lane.

• Key Attractions: The Japanese Covered Bridge is something symbolic of the ancient charm of the city. The other main attractions are the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. One of the things that should be added to your schedule is a night tour of Hoi An by lantern-lit streets.
• Things to Do: Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River or pedal your bike through the tranquil countryside surrounding the town. Beaches close to Hoi An, such as An Bang Beach, are ideal for some sunbathing.
• Pro Tip: Aim to time your visit when the Hoi An Lantern Festival is on for a truly enchanting experience.

Ho Chi Minh City – A Modern Metropolis with a Rich History

Until recently known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the pulsating heartbeat of southern Vietnam. It is a bustling metropolis that harmoniously combines sprawling markets with skyscrapers and historical sites from times past.

• Key Attractions: The War Remnants Museum allows guests to delve into the Vietnam War in much detail, while Independence Palace will symbolize the resurgent Vietnam. Don't forget Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office for their French-colonial architecture.
• Foodie Adventures: HCMC is also a foodie's heaven, where, from crispy 'banh xeo' to the famous 'banh mi', every kind of street food delicacy is available.
• Pro Tip: Drink at a rooftop bar and watch the city at night; particularly, District 1 is colored, filled with neon lights, and very lively.

Da Nang – A City of Beaches and Bridges

Nestled between mountains and sea, Da Nang combines perfectly with urban excitement and natural beauty. It stands out as the tourism landmark of Vietnam for its beautiful beaches and unique bridges.

• Key Attractions: The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills with human-made caves and temples inside. The iconic Dragon Bridge that breathes fire on weekends is something that shouldn't be missed too.
• Things to Do: Da Nang also has My Khe Beach, which is one of the most famous extents of the coastline in Vietnam. One can indulge in various water sports or just laze around.
• Pro Tip: Enjoy a cable car ride over the long distance of Ba Na Hills and be amazed by the surreal Golden Bridge, held up by giant stone hands.

Hue – The Imperial City

For history lovers, Hue is easily one of the best cities in Vietnam once imperial capital it is steeped in magnificent palaces, tombs, and pagodas from the Nguyen Dynasty.

• Key Attractions: Imperial Citadel One of the most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Vietnam is the vast complex of palaces, temples, and historic buildings that date back centuries. Not to be missed are the tombs of former royalty along the Perfume River such as the Tomb of Khai Dinh for its breathtaking architecture.
• Pro Tip: Take a ride on a dragon boat along the Perfume River to see Hue from the water and take all that historical beauty in.

Ninh Binh – Halong Bay on Land

Known as "Halong Bay on Land," Ninh Binh is the ideal destination for nature lovers. Comprising landscapes of limestone karst sprouting out of the ground grandly, deeply green fields, and tranquil waterways make this region one of the most spectacular ones.

• Key Attractions: The best way to admire the beauty of Ninh Binh is by taking an unforgettable boat ride through Tam Coc, with smocked limestone cliffs and ancient temples gliding by. Equally unmissable is the Trang An Scenic Complex, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Pro Tip: Go for a hike up to the top of Mua Cave for one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Vietnam!

Ha Long Bay – The Icon of Natural Beauty

A list of top cities to must-visit cities in Vietnam is never complete without mentioning Ha Long Bay, whose emerald waters and towering limestone islands have made it a key UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Key Attractions: Various cruises allow you to circle the bay in search of hidden caves, floating fishing villages, and pristine beaches. Whether it is by staying fit on a kayak, swimming, or simply sunbathing on the deck, Ha Long Bay has got your fix.
• Pro Tip: The best way to do this is to take an overnight cruise and see the bay at sunrise; it is truly unforgettable.

2. Beyond the Usual Suspects: Discover Vietnam’s Hidden Gems

Ha Giang – Vietnam’s Northern Frontier

Ha Giang is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Lying in the very northeast, this most distant region has little of the prettier landscape seen in Vietnam; thus, it harbors towering limestone karsts, deep valleys, and artisan rice terraces.

• Unique Appeal: The Ha Giang Loop is a viscerally beautiful motorbike route that takes travelers across dramatic mountain passes and through very remote ethnic minority villages. Rustic charm and unspoiled beauty make the region's favorites for travelers seeking to eschew the tourist crowds.
• Things to Do: Other than scenic drives, Ha Giang offers excellent options for trekking, local market visits, and studying the customs of Hmong, Tay, and Dao people. Don't miss Lung Cu Flag Tower, which is considered to be the northernmost point of Vietnam.
• Practical Info: Ha Gaing is best reached by motorbike or bus from Hanoi; travel times are around 7-8 hours. The best time to visit is around September to November, during the cooler weather, and when the rice terraces are full.

Mai Chau – A Serene Countryside Escape

Only a few hours away from Hanoi, Mai Chau is an ideal retreat from the busier northern part of Vietnam. It is far away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, offering a good chance to experience the rural way of life amidst fine green rice paddies and towering peaks of limestone.

• Unique Appeal: Mai Chau combines adventure, relaxation, and exploration into nature. One can stay in basic rooms on stilts in a White Thai Village or simply rejoice at cycling or curving through rice fields into miniature villages that will welcome the visitor into their world of heavy cultural life.
• Things to Do: Here, one can trekking or cycle around the valley, take a boating ride along Ma River, or visit the kaleidoscopic Mai Chau Market. Get pleasure from some of the traditional dance performances and join a cooking class with them to get more into the culture of the land.
• Practical Info: Mai Chau is 3-4 hours from Hanoi by bus and, therefore can be an ideal weekend getaway. The appropriate time to visit would be during the months from October to April due to good weather in the outdoors.

Da Lat – The City of Eternal Spring

Situated in the Central Highlands, Da Lat is perhaps one of the better cities in Vietnam for the traveler in search of both cooler weather and a more relaxed atmosphere. An interesting mix of colonial architecture, mist-shrouded lakes, and pine forests, Da Lat is a fresh breather from the tropical heat of the lowlands.

• Unique Appeal: Da Lat is known for its French colonial villas, flower gardens, and serene lakes imbuing it with a European feel. It's also a hub for outdoor adventures like hiking, canyoning, and mountain biking.
• Things to Do: Things to do include taking an easy walk around it, seeing the intriguing Crazy House, or canyoning at Datanla Waterfall. And then there is its coffee culture sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee grown locally in one of the cozy cafes.
• Practical Info: Da Lat is reached by a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City, or by bus from Nha Trang. The mild climate of the city makes it suitable to visit any time of year, but the best time is from December to March.

3. Tips and Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

The best time to see the must-visit cities in Vietnam varies according to the region and type of experience:

• North Vietnam: This is best during the months of October to April, as the weather is cooler, ideal for trekking in Sapa or leisurely days spent cruising in Ha Long Bay.
• Central Vietnam: Sunny weather to tour Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue from March to September.
• South Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta are best visited between November and March, which incidentally are the dry season months.

Visa Information

Visa requirements vary for Vietnam, depending on one's nationality. Most visitors are allowed to obtain an e-visa online that permits them a 30-day stay. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned entry date. For those planning to stay longer, visa-on-arrival and extensions are available, though it's recommended to check the latest visa policies on official government websites.

Travel Tips

• Packing: Lightweight breathable clothing will be essential in the hot humid areas, yet those travelling to the cooler cities Sapa or Da Lat for example will want to take a few layers along.
• Currency: Vietnamese Dong VND. Payments in small denominations are more recommended, especially when traveling in rural areas and in fields that do not have card transactions.
• Etiquette: It is always a good practice to remove shoes when entering a home or a temple. Tipping is not expected; however, it is very much appreciated in restaurants and for guides.
• Safety: Vietnam is generally safe, but beware of petty theft, especially in tourist hotspots such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Check Vietnam Plug: Before you go to Vietnam, you have to know what kind of Vietnam plug. There are types A, C, and F power sockets in Vietnam; the standard voltage is 220V. It is recommended that for over two weeks or traveling to remote areas, you bring a universal adapter.

4. Conclusion

From bustling metropolises down to countryside retreats, Vietnam simply has something for all tastes. Be it exploring must-visit cities in Vietnam, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, beating around the bushes of its hidden treasures like Ha Giang and Mai Chau you simply guarantee lifelong experiences. With the right Vietnam travel tips, you will get around the nation like a professional and make the most of every destination.

Let your heart be captured by the beauties of Vietnamese cities and landscapes; start planning your adventure today! Ready to explore? Armed with these essential Vietnam travel tips, create some time and set off to indulge in the wonders of this diverse and vibrant country.