It’s impossible to explore everything Vietnam has to offer in a single trip, and we don’t recommend trying. Instead, here’s a curated list of the country’s highlights—featuring stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, ancient landmarks, and colonial-era architecture. This selection offers a taste of Vietnam’s rich culture and diverse experiences.

1. Hoi An

Renowned for its cultural heritage, Hoi An enchants visitors with its well-preserved merchants’ houses and laid-back charm. A few days here are simply unforgettable.

2. Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

This UNESCO-recognized area in Ha Giang Province offers Vietnam’s most breathtaking mountain views, close to the Chinese border.

3. Da Lat

A charming hill town with cool weather, Da Lat serves as the travel hub of the picturesque Central Highlands, offering a refreshing escape from the heat.

4. Cu Chi Tunnels & Cao Dai Temple

Marvel at the ingenuity of the Cu Chi tunnels, a wartime network of tiny underground pathways, and visit the vibrant Cao Dai Temple, a spiritual hub of Vietnam’s unique indigenous religion.

5. Beer Culture

Discover two sides of Vietnam’s beer scene: enjoy cheap and cheerful draft beer at Hanoi’s bia hoi stalls, or sample craft brews in the trendsetting bars of Ho Chi Minh City.

6. The Citadel, Hue

Hue’s ancient Citadel, royal tombs, and serene gardens captivate even the most seasoned travelers with their historic charm.

7. Water Puppets

Witness the magical art of mua roi nuoc, a traditional water puppet show originating from Hanoi’s Red River Delta.

8. Tailored Silk Clothing

Hoi An’s skilled tailors can craft custom silk suits or dresses within hours, offering a unique and stylish souvenir.

9. Mount Fansipan

Take the world’s longest cable car ride from Sa Pa to Vietnam’s highest peak for panoramic views of the northern mountains.

10. Relax on Phu Quoc

Ringed by palm-lined beaches, Phu Quoc Island is perfect for snorkeling, diving, or simply unwinding in a tropical paradise.

11. Po Klong Garai Towers

These stunning Cham towers in Ninh Thuan Province are among the finest examples of ancient Cham architecture in Vietnam.

12. Tam Coc

Explore the serene countryside with a boat ride through dramatic karst landscapes in Ninh Binh’s Tam Coc region.

13. Ethnic Markets

Vibrant traditional attire and bustling energy make markets in places like Bac Ha and Can Cau must-visit cultural experiences.

14. Cycling in Chau Doc

Pedal through rice fields and picturesque scenery in the Mekong Delta near Cambodia’s border for an authentic experience.

15. Ha Long Bay Boat Tour

Cruise through Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone islands, a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

16. Tet Festival

Celebrate Vietnam’s Lunar New Year with flower markets, fireworks, and traditional dragon dances during this vibrant national holiday.

17. Travel by Train

Swap the chaotic roads for the relaxing train journey between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, or enjoy shorter segments of this scenic route.

18. Colonial Architecture

Admire Vietnam’s French colonial legacy through landmarks like Hanoi’s Opera House and Ho Chi Minh City’s Notre-Dame Cathedral.

19. Hanoi’s Unique Cafés

Discover hidden cafés in Vietnam’s coffee capital, where you can enjoy a cup of ca phe trung (egg coffee) or robust drip coffee.

20. Adventure Sports

From kitesurfing in Mui Ne to rock climbing in Cat Ba and mountain biking in Da Lat, Vietnam offers adrenaline-packed activities for thrill-seekers.

21. Pho

Start your day with a steaming bowl of pho, Vietnam’s quintessential noodle soup and a culinary icon.

22. Bahnar Villages

Immerse yourself in Bahnar culture by staying in a traditional rong (communal house) and experiencing timeless ceremonies.

23. Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue

This iconic pagoda overlooking the Perfume River showcases Vietnam’s spiritual and architectural diversity.

24. Street Food

Hanoi’s street kitchens serve up a feast of fresh and flavorful dishes, offering an authentic taste of Vietnam at unbeatable prices.

25. Nha Trang

Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters around Nha Trang’s islands or relax on its sun-drenched beaches.

From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, Vietnam offers countless experiences for every traveler. Plan wisely and savor the journey!