Find Out 10 Best Vietnam Holiday Destinations
Vietnam, although a small country, is filled with natural beauty. A diverse cultural heritage enriched by hill tribes, a staggering number of developing metropolis and megacities, and dynamic natural landscape make this country both exotic and modern. Vietnam is a backpacker’s paradise, but the country offers a lot more to tourists who seek adventure. Starting from adventurous kite surfing to hiking on dirt trails, you can enjoy a lot of activities over here. The nation has a rich history filled with stories of trade and commerce, war, and so much more in between. It is a fascinating place, which has a lot to offer its visitors. Here are some of the most beautiful Vietnam holiday destinations, specially curated for you.
1. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)
One of the most visited cities of the country, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is famous for its association with the Vietnam War. Also known as Saigon, the region has beautiful French landmarks, which retells the story of the country’s French connection. HCMC is a beautiful urban collage of old and new, where traditional temples co-exist with towering skyscrapers. HCMC is well-connected with all the major cities of the country and has an active international airport (Tan Son Nhat) as well.
How to reach: HCMC is well-connected to major cities of Vietnam via train, air, or roadways.Things to do at HCMC:
Eating street food Visiting the Chinese quarters Exploring the city on a motor bike or Xe Ôm Visit important landmarks like War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral
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2. Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is an ancient metropolis and one of the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites. This 15th-century city, with ancient colonial facades, takes you back in time when it was an important trading port. According to official records, the Hanoi was once visited by merchants from as far as Europe. But Hanoi is a lot more than just ancient buildings. With time the city is recovering from the after effects of the war. Close to the serene countryside, Hanoi offers a bouquet of experiences to travelers who are searching for best Vietnam holiday destinations.
How to reach: Hanoi has an active international and domestic airport. The city is accessible from all the major cities of Vietnam. International flights arrive from Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and India. Besides that, the city is connected with all the important towns of Vietnam via trains and buses.Things to do at Hanoi:
Exploring the cultural cafés of Hanoi Visiting the colonial old quarters Sampling exotic street food Sightseeing - Hoa Lo Prison Museum, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
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3. Hà Giang
Located in the remote northern frontier of the country, Ha Giang is everything that defines rugged and spectacular. Covered in a green carpet of rice paddy fields and naturally carved limestone mountains, the region is an ideal Vietnam holiday destination. Home to the Tày minority, the area is suitable for trekking and hiking expeditions. If you have an adventurous streak in you, then you should surely go for mountain biking at Mã Pí Lèng Pass or the Quan Ba Pass.
How to reach Hà Giang: The area is accessible via roads. Travelers, who like adventure can opt for motorbike trips to reach Hà Giang, while others take buses. You may even opt for car rentals for traveling to this remote region.Things to do at Hà Giang:
Soaking in the natural beauty of the region Visiting Dong Van plateau, Quan Ba heaven gate, and Tay Con Linh peak are a must
Exploring the Sa Phin Hmong Palace
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Beautiful Scenery of Hà Giang
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4. Hạ Long Bay
The list of Vietnam holiday destinations is incomplete without the mention of Ha Long Bay or Bai Chay. Located in the Northern Vietnam Province, Ha Long is well-known for its natural cave system and beautiful limestone grottos. On a night long boat excisions are preferred by many tourists, who come here for adventure. Although commercialization of the region has stripped it of its natural charm, there are some pockets where you can find the authentic beauty of the city. Relaxing at the pristine beaches is a must for tourists.
How to reach Ha Long Bay: Buses are available from all the major cities of Vietnam. Cat Bi International Airport is the closest airport. One can also board car rental services. Cargo trains are available and could be boarded from Hanoi.Things to do at Ha Long Bay:
Boat tour Relaxing at the offbeat beaches of Cat Ba Island
Exploring the caves network on the island
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A Panoramic View of Ha Long bay
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5. Hue
Once the capital of the Nguyen dynasty, Hue (pronounced as ‘hway’) is an enclosed citadel within a city. Although most portions of the citadel were badly damaged during the American bombing, the remnant portions of the citadel are still worth a visit. Well-known for its spicy dishes and aromatic spices, the city is one of the popular Vietnam holiday destinations. A beautiful city with an interesting culinary culture, you are requested not to miss the vibrant Vietnamese cuisines found in the corners of this former imperial city.
How to reach Hue: Buses and flights are available.
Things to do at Hue: Visiting the Imperial Enclosure, and other important landmarks Exploring the beautiful monasteries and pagodas Taking a bicycle rickshaw (xích lô) to explore the city
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6. Con Dao Island
Con Dao Island (consisting of a group of small islets) is one of the offbeat Vietnam holiday destinations. Lovely beaches and coral reefs dominate the landscape, making it a perfect escape for tourists seeking something more. The beautiful island has a deep connection with Vietnam’s colonial history. Thousands of Vietnamese prisoners were once held here during the French and American rule. Ferry rides are available for tourists planning to visit the island for some quiet time.
How to reach Con Dao Island: Con Dao Airport is located at the main island of Con Son connected to an important metropolis. Tourists can take boats as well, but it is not highly recommended. For traveling around the island, you can take a bicycle.Things to do Con Dao Island:
Sightseeing Relaxing at the beaches 7. Mui Ne
If you like adrenaline rushing through your body, then Mui Ne is your place to be. Frequented by adventure lovers, the area has some secular arrangements for water sports. But, that is not all. If you are more of an indoors person, then you can relax on the beaches while sipping your margaritas.
How to reach Mui Ne: You can take cars or buses from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). The closest international airport to the city is located at HCMC.Things to do at Mui Ne:
Adventure sports
Relaxing at the beaches
Watching the sunset from the sun dunes
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Relaxing at the Mui Ne Beach
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8. Dalat
One of the preferred Vietnam holiday destinations, Dalat is a popular honeymoon spot. Blessed with perfect weather, a welcome relief from the tropical climate of the country, the region has been a popular holiday destination since the French rule. The city still reflects the French holiday vibes, the Dalat is indeed a romantic city with its Valley of Love or a radio tower that resembles Eiffel Tower.
How to reach: Flight, trains, or buses available from nearby cities.Things to do at Dalat:
Sipping coffees at popular cafes
Climbing the Lang Biang Mountain
Visiting the Truc Lam Pagoda
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Charming View of Da Lat
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9. Sapa
Imagine a valley covered in mist rolled peaks, with stunning trekking peaks – that’s Sapa for you. Although, haphazard development has mired some of its beauty, beyond the city limits you will find beautiful trekking trails passing through cascading rice terraces. If you are a nature lover, then Sapa is a must visit for you.
How to reach: Buses are available from Ho Chi Minh City. You can also opt for car rental services.Things to do at Sapa:
Trekking
Shopping at Bac Ha Market
Exploring the serene landscape
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Trekking in Sapa
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10. Nha Trang
Although a busy beach town, Nha Trang offers a host of activities for tourists. Exciting nightlife and lots of options for adventure sports, the city is ideal for thrill seeking visitors.
How to reach: Buses and flights are available from important cities in Vietnam are available. You can opt for trains as well.Things to do at Nha Trang:
Shopping at Dam market
Trying jet skiing or surfing
Visiting the beautiful monasteries and pagodas
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Beautiful Scenery of Nha Trang
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Read More:
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