If you’re planning your first adventure to Southeast Asia, discover the best 10 places to visit in Vietnam on a 10-day itinerary covering Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Saigon, Mekong Delta & more. Ideal for first-time international travelers. With over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, lush mountains, and cities that span from ancient dynasties to modern metropolises, Vietnam is a traveler’s dream. This Vietnam travel guide reveals the best 10 places to visit in Vietnam, whether you’re coming for culture, cuisine, beaches, or breathtaking scenery.

1. Hanoi – The cultural capital

Hanoi stands proudly as one of the best places to visit in Vietnam, especially for first-time international travelers. This thousand-year-old city offers a captivating blend of ancient temples, French colonial architecture, and vibrant street life. From the buzzing motorbike-filled alleys of the Old Quarter to serene lakes and historical landmarks, Hanoi is where tradition meets modernity.

Wander through maze-like streets named after ancient trades, sip egg coffee in a cozy café, and marvel at the city’s resilience through generations of change. Hanoi is a cultural gateway to northern Vietnam and the perfect starting point for any 10-day itinerary.

Top experiences in Hanoi

• Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university dating back to 1070. Its peaceful courtyards and ancient stelae offer a glimpse into the country’s Confucian heritage.

• Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, where you’ll see the preserved body of Vietnam’s founding father and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda nearby.

• Watch a Water Puppet Show at the Thang Long Theater, a traditional Vietnamese art form performed over water to live music.

• Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, where you’ll find the iconic Turtle Tower and the beautiful Ngoc Son Temple.

• Head to Train Street for an unforgettable photo op and local coffee experience as trains pass through a narrow residential alley.

Further afield, West Lake offers lakeside tranquility framed by gardens and temples, including Trấn Quốc Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temples perched on an islet in the water. Other unique experiences include the photogenic Train Street, where a narrow train track cuts between homes and cafés—visitors can watch trains pass just a few centimeters from seating areas (safely behind barriers) while sipping tea Hanoi’s museums, colonial architecture like the Hanoi Opera House modeled after Paris’s Palais Garnier, and lively street food scene combine to make it one of the most authentic and captivating cities to explore.

2. Halong Bay – Natural wonder of the world

Why Ha Long Bay is a must in the best 10 places to visit in Vietnam

Floating among emerald-green waters and hundreds of limestone karsts rising from the Gulf of Tonkin, Halong Bay (and its serene neighbor Lan Ha Bay) remains one of the best 10 places to visit in Vietnam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay’s otherworldly scenery includes hidden caves, floating villages, and emerald lagoons best explored on an overnight cruise.

Top experiences in Halong Bay

• Embark on an Overnight Cruise to truly experience the bay’s beauty at sunrise and sunset. Most cruises offer deluxe cabins, traditional Vietnamese meals, and guided excursions.

• Go Kayaking or Bamboo Boating through hidden lagoons and sea caves like Luon Cave or Dark and Bright Cave in nearby Lan Ha Bay.

• Explore Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the largest and most spectacular caves in the region, filled with dramatic stalactites and chambers.

• Swim or Hike on Titov Island, known for its panoramic viewpoint of the bay—perfect for photos.

• Practice Morning Tai Chi on Deck, a peaceful way to start your day surrounded by nature’s grandeur.

Many cruises include stops at caves like Sung Sot Cave and opportunities to swim or hike on islands like Titov.

3. Sapa – Northern highlands & rice terraces

Sapa is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for travelers who seek natural beauty, cultural diversity, and off-the-beaten-path adventure. Nestled in the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range near the Chinese border, Sapa is famed for its misty peaks, emerald rice terraces, and vibrant ethnic communities.

Visiting Sapa offers a chance to connect with the H’mong, Dao, Tay, and Giay people, whose colorful clothing, traditional homes, and unique customs bring the mountains to life. The cool, highland climate contrasts sharply with Vietnam’s tropical lowlands, offering an ideal escape for trekkers and cultural explorers alike.

Top experiences in Sapa

• Trek Through Muong Hoa Valley, where you’ll pass through terraced rice paddies, cross suspension bridges, and visit minority villages like Lao Chai and Ta Van.

• Spend a Night in a Homestay, sharing meals and stories with local families and gaining insight into their way of life.

• Visit Cat Cat Village, a cultural hub just outside of Sapa town known for its handicrafts and traditional performances.

• Conquer Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Indochina (3,143 meters), accessible by cable car or multi-day hike.

• Photograph the Golden Harvest, especially in September and October when the rice terraces glow in vibrant yellow tones.

4. Ha Giang – Vietnam’s untouched beauty

Ha Giang is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam if you crave remote landscapes and raw authenticity. Located in the far north, near the Chinese border, Ha Giang remains Vietnam’s most untouched region—where towering mountains, winding rivers, and ethnic culture blend seamlessly.

This is Vietnam at its most dramatic and least developed. The famed Ha Giang Loop, a multi-day motorbike journey through stunning mountain passes, offers unrivaled views of limestone peaks, green valleys, and traditional villages.

The scenery along Ma Pi Leng Pass is considered among the most stunning in Southeast Asia. Visiting Ha Giang means venturing into authentic local culture, with vibrant minority markets and homestays that reveal a slower, more traditional way of life. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, Ha Giang is the ultimate destination.

Top experiences in Ha Giang

• Ride the Ma Pi Leng Pass, known as one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful roads, hanging above the Nho Que River.

• Explore Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Global Geopark where geology and culture collide.

• Stay in an Ethnic Homestay, especially in villages like Meo Vac and Lung Cu, where you’ll meet H’mong, Tay, and Lo Lo communities.

• Visit the Sunday Markets, where minority groups gather in traditional dress to trade textiles, livestock, and produce.

• Climb Lung Cu Flag Tower, Vietnam’s northernmost point, offering panoramic views over China-Vietnam borderlands.

5. Ninh Binh – Inland Halong Bay

Ninh Binh is often called “Halong Bay on land”, thanks to its towering limestone karsts rising above emerald-green rice paddies and winding rivers. Just two hours south of Hanoi, it’s one of the most scenic and spiritual places to visit in Vietnam.

A mix of tranquil countryside, sacred temples, and lush landscapes make Ninh Binh perfect for those seeking both beauty and peace. It’s also the filming location for Hollywood blockbusters like Kong: Skull Island.

The most popular activity in Ninh Binh is a boat ride through Tam Coc or Trang An, where you’ll drift past rice paddies and under low-hanging caves. Adventurous travelers can climb Hang Mua Viewpoint for panoramic views of the landscape. Ninh Binh is also home to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest temple complexes in Southeast Asia.

Top experiences in Ninh Binh

• Take a Sampan Boat Ride in Trang An or Tam Coc, drifting through karst caves and serene waterways rowed by skilled locals.

• Hike to Hang Mua Peak, where 500 stone steps lead to a panoramic viewpoint of rice fields and river valleys.

• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia, featuring giant statues and sacred halls.

• Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the seat of Vietnam’s royal dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries.

• Cycle Through Villages, discovering peaceful rural life, buffalo-dotted paths, and lotus ponds.

6. Hue – Ancient Imperial City

Hue, the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, is a city steeped in imperial elegance. It’s one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for travelers interested in history, architecture, and royal cuisine.

Sitting along the Perfume River in central Vietnam, Hue was once the political, religious, and cultural center of the country. Today, its majestic palaces, tombs, and temples offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s feudal past.

The Imperial City, a walled fortress complex modeled after Beijing’s Forbidden City, contains palaces, temples, and royal residences. Nearby, you can explore the ornate Tombs of the Emperors, like the tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, which blend Vietnamese and French design elements. Hue is also known for its imperial cuisine, featuring dishes like bun bo Hue and banh beo. A boat ride along the Perfume River completes the experience.

Top experiences in Hue

• Tour the Imperial City (Citadel), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes palaces, shrines, and royal gates.

• Cruise the Perfume River, especially at sunset, stopping at Thien Mu Pagoda, the city’s oldest and tallest religious building.

• Visit the Royal Tombs, including those of Emperors Khai Dinh, Tu Duc, and Minh Mang—each unique in style and symbolism.

• Try Imperial Cuisine, such as banh beo, nem lui, and bun bo Hue, dishes once served to royalty.

• Watch Traditional Music Performances, set against a backdrop of ancient architecture.

7. Da Nang – Vietnam’s modern beach hub

Da Nang is a dynamic coastal city that effortlessly blends modern living with natural beauty. It’s home to some of the best beaches in Vietnam and serves as a gateway to the ancient cities of Hue and Hoi An.

Thanks to its clean beaches, vibrant skyline, and proximity to UNESCO landmarks, Da Nang has grown into a favorite among both international and domestic travelers.

Top experiences in Da Nang

• Relax at My Khe Beach, a long stretch of white sand ideal for swimming and surfing.

• Visit Marble Mountains, a cluster of marble and limestone hills with pagodas, caves, and panoramic viewpoints.

• Walk the Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills, a mountain-top pedestrian bridge held up by giant stone hands.

• See the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water every weekend night.

• Sample Central Vietnamese Food, such as mi quang and banh xeo, in bustling local markets.

8. Hoi An – Vietnam’s most charming town

Just 30 minutes from Da Nang, Hoi An is a well-preserved ancient town that feels like a step back in time. One of Vietnam’s most charming destinations, Hoi An is famous for its preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and laid-back atmosphere.

Explore the Ancient Town, where yellow-painted shophouses line the river and centuries-old buildings like the Japanese Covered Bridge reflect the town’s trading heritage. Hoi An is also a center for tailor-made clothing, with many shops able to create custom garments in just a day or two. Food lovers will enjoy trying cao lau, a noodle dish unique to the region, or taking a cooking class with locals. Just a short bike ride away are the peaceful rice paddies and quiet An Bang Beach.

Top experiences in Hoi An

• Stroll Through Ancient Town, crossing the Japanese Covered Bridge and visiting old merchant houses and Chinese assembly halls.

• Take a Lantern-Making Workshop, learning a centuries-old craft and creating your own souvenir.

• Order Custom Clothing, with tailored suits, dresses, and shoes ready in 24–48 hours.

• Enjoy a Sunset Boat Ride, floating down the Thu Bon River while releasing lanterns into the water.

• Cook with Locals, joining a market tour and cooking class to master regional specialties like cao lau and white rose dumplings.

9. Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s bustling South

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. It’s a city of contrasts, where ancient temples sit beside skyscrapers and bustling markets buzz with life. Historical landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels provide a sobering but essential look into Vietnam’s 20th-century history.

Meanwhile, districts like District 1 offer rooftop bars, designer boutiques, and international restaurants. The city’s fast-paced energy, vibrant street life, and unbeatable street food scene make it an exciting destination for urban travelers.

Top experiences in Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit the War Remnants Museum and Independence Palace, for a powerful understanding of Vietnam’s modern history.

• Explore Ben Thanh Market, packed with souvenirs, local dishes, and colorful chaos.

• Take a Day Trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground hideouts used during the Vietnam War.

• Relax at a Rooftop Bar, enjoying city views and cocktails in places like Bitexco Tower or Landmark 81.

• Explore District 1, home to Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and French-era architecture.

10. Mekong Delta – Vietnam’s life on the water

The Mekong Delta is a vast maze of rivers, rice fields, and traditional villages in southern Vietnam. Life here revolves around water, with floating markets like Cai Rang in Can Tho showcasing how locals trade produce by boat. Taking a boat trip through the canals allows you to witness authentic rural life, visit coconut candy workshops, and enjoy fresh tropical fruit.

Staying overnight in a local homestay is one of the most enriching ways to experience the culture and hospitality of the Mekong people. The Mekong Delta is ideal for travelers looking to connect with Vietnam’s agricultural heartland.

Top experiences in the Mekong Delta

• Visit Floating Markets, especially Cai Rang and Phong Dien, where locals sell fruit and goods from wooden boats.

• Take a Boat Tour, navigating narrow canals lined with coconut palms and water palms.

• Try Tropical Fruits, such as jackfruit, dragon fruit, and longan, fresh from the orchard.

• Stay in a Riverside Homestay, enjoying local meals and traditional music in the evening.

• Watch Local Crafts, like rice paper making or coconut candy production in traditional workshops.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam varies depending on the region. Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi and Sapa, enjoys pleasant weather in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Central Vietnam, including Hue and Hoi An, is best visited between February and August, while southern destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta are most enjoyable from December to April. Due to Vietnam’s long geography, it’s almost always possible to find good weather somewhere in the country. Plan your trip around your priorities, beaches, culture, or trekking, and you’ll find your perfect season.

If you’re feeling inspired to explore the best places to visit in Vietnam, now’s the time to take the next step. At PBJP Travel, we specialize in tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, and groups. Whether you want a 10-day highlights tour, an off-the-beaten-track adventure, or a slow cultural immersion, we’re here to design the perfect itinerary. Let us help you turn this travel guide into reality book your trip today!

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