With its stunning landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and lively cities, Vietnam is an incredible destination for any traveller. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, or someone who craves adventure, Vietnam has something special for you. And if you are a coffee lover like me then it is a perfect destination for you. Highlands Coffee is one of the best coffee chain brands.

To make the most of your visit, planning your trip around the must-see places is essential. In this blog, I’ll share seven of the best destinations in Vietnam and why each place deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.

1. Phu Quoc: Best for Beach Lovers

Phu Quoc is an island paradise located in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed vibe that invites you to slow down and unwind. Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the beach as the sun sets or exploring the island's lush jungles, Phu Quoc has plenty to offer.

Why visit: It’s the perfect spot for a tropical getaway. You can enjoy luxury resorts, and beach bars, and even visit the VinWonders theme park or take a ride on the world’s longest over-sea cable car.

2. Hanoi: Best for City Explorers

Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, is a blend of ancient history and modern charm. From its bustling streets to the peaceful lakes and pagodas, Hanoi offers a rich cultural experience. Wander through the Old Quarter, sample mouthwatering street food, and visit historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Why visit: Hanoi is a gateway to northern attractions like Halong Bay, a foodie’s heaven, and a cultural gem.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a lively city that can both overwhelm and captivate visitors. The bustling streets are filled with motorbikes, street vendors, and a lot of noise, which can be a bit much for some travellers. But if you want to experience the true essence of Vietnamese city life, Hanoi is the place to be.

The Old Quarter offers a unique charm with its aged, weathered buildings, while history lovers will find plenty to explore in the city’s excellent museums. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum are great places to start if you’re curious about the country’s rich cultural and artistic history. And, of course, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must-see, honouring the leader who founded modern Vietnam.

Tip: If you have some extra time, then it is best to explore nearby attractions. The Tay Phuong and Thay Pagodas. For a more peaceful escape, visit the Huong Pagoda (also called the Perfume Pagoda).

3. Lan Ha Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay: Best for Iconic Photos

While Halong Bay is Vietnam’s most famous tourist destination, nearby Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay offer a quieter, more peaceful alternative. These bays are known for their towering limestone islands and serene beauty, making them perfect for a relaxing boat trip or kayaking adventure.

Why visit: Fewer crowds and equally breathtaking views compared to Halong Bay.

4. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Best for History Buffs

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city. It’s fast-paced and exciting and offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past, from the remnants of the Vietnam War to colonial-era architecture. The War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels are must-see attractions.

If you love vibrant cities, a visit to Ho Chi Minh City should be on your list when exploring Vietnam. This bustling metropolis is full of life, from the busy streets overflowing with motorbikes to a food scene that offers a mix of traditional and international cuisine. Plus, if you're into shopping, Ho Chi Minh City is a top destination with endless options.

The heart of the city is Dong Khoi, a compact and easy-to-navigate district where many of the main attractions are located. Start your adventure at the HCMC Museum, where you can dive into the city’s history through an impressive display of artefacts. Just around the corner is the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, a striking 19th-century building that adds a touch of French flair to the city.

For those who enjoy architecture, take a stroll through Da Kao, an older part of town, to admire the well-preserved French colonial buildings. While there, stop by the Jade Emperor Pagoda, known for its vibrant religious statues and unique blend of Buddhist and Taoist elements.

Lastly, if you’re a history buff, don’t miss the History Museum. It’s packed with exhibits that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s fascinating past, giving you a deeper appreciation of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Why visit: The city's energy is infectious, and its history is deeply moving. Plus, the street food is unbeatable.

5. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Best for Adventure Seekers

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong. But don’t worry if that’s out of your budget — the park is filled with other stunning caves you can explore for a fraction of the cost. You can also go zip-lining, kayaking, or camping on an underground beach.

Why visit: It’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you love exploring caves, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning landscape of karst mountains, filled with massive caves that house incredible formations of stalactites and stalagmites.

What makes this park stand out is its range of caving adventures. Whether you're into hardcore, multi-day hiking and caving expeditions or prefer something more laid-back like a half-day boat tour, there’s something for everyone. Beyond caving, the park also offers mountain biking and trekking if you're up for some outdoor fun.

Among the park's highlights are Paradise Cave, which stretches an unbelievable 31 kilometres underground, and Phong Nha Cave, where you can take a boat ride to explore its fascinating interior. These are perfect for those looking for a half-day adventure that’s easy to arrange once you arrive.

The park’s biggest attractions, though, are Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world, and Tu Lan Cave, known for its river systems inside the caverns. However, access to these caves is limited to guided tours, ranging from one to multiple days, all organized by the expert adventure company Oxalis. It’s a good idea to book these tours in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

6. Hoi An: Best for History Lovers

Hoi An is a charming town with a rich history, famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of teetering shophouses, temples, and pagodas. Visitors can also take cooking classes, shop for custom-made clothes, or simply enjoy the lantern-lit streets at night.

Why visit: Hoi An offers a unique look into Vietnam’s past while providing modern-day delights like shopping and dining.

Exploring the Old Town of Hoi An is like stepping back in time. This charming area is filled with beautifully preserved merchant houses that date back to the 15th century when Hoi An was a bustling trade hub for Japanese and Chinese merchants, especially known for its silk.

Many of these old houses are open for visitors, giving you a glimpse into what life was like back then. One of the best to visit is the 17th-century Tan Ky House, which features unique architectural designs and decorative details.

The Japanese Bridge, located at the western end of Tran Phu Street, is probably Hoi An’s most iconic landmark. 

While there are several small pagodas and museums scattered around, the real joy of Hoi An lies in wandering through its old streets, admiring the well-preserved buildings, and soaking in the town’s timeless charm.

7. Nha Trang & Central Beaches: Best for Sun Seekers

If you’re after a beach holiday, Nha Trang is the place to be. With its long sandy coastline and lively city atmosphere, it’s a favourite for sun-seekers. For a quieter beach experience, you can head to Doc Let Beach or explore the hidden beaches between Hue and Danang.

Why visit: The perfect blend of city life and beach relaxation, with options to escape the crowds if needed.

For a beach getaway in Vietnam, Nha Trang is the top spot. The city’s well-kept beach stretches for six kilometres and is especially lively during the summer, packed with local families and tourists soaking up the sun.

The beach is perfect for swimming, with designated areas for safe swimming and plenty of space for lounging around. It’s an ideal place to relax, enjoy the sand, and take in the beautiful coastal views.

If you need a break from the beach, head just north across the Xom Bong Bridge to visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers. These ancient towers have been a place of worship since the 7th century, though some say the site has been sacred for even longer.

For something different, check out the museum dedicated to Alexandre Yersin, who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague. He also founded the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang, which still plays an important role in vaccination efforts in Vietnam today.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s weather varies depending on the region, but generally, the best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and comfortable across most of the country. The summer months (May to September) can be quite hot and humid, but they’re perfect for beach destinations like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam is a country that offers something for everyone. From its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes to its vibrant cities and rich history, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences. Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach holiday or an adventurous trek through caves and mountains, Vietnam is a destination that will leave you in awe.

So, start planning your trip and get ready to discover the beauty of Vietnam!