Vietnam is a country that seems to be on everyone’s travel list these days—and for good reason. It’s a land of contrasts: wild mountain passes and golden beaches, bustling cities and sleepy towns, ancient traditions and vibrant modern life. According to travel experts and magazines like The Travel (Canada), there’s a long list of places in Vietnam that promise not just a vacation, but memories that linger long after your plane takes off.
If you’re dreaming of your next adventure, here’s where you should go for experiences that definitely won’t disappoint.
Ha Giang – Where the Adventure Begins
For those who crave rugged beauty and raw adventure, Ha Giang is Vietnam’s ultimate frontier. Tucked away in the far north, this province offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Southeast Asia. Imagine winding roads carved into steep mountainsides, towering karst peaks, and terraced fields cascading down into green valleys.
The city of Ha Giang itself is a small, quiet urban center by the Lo River. But venture beyond, and the true magic begins. Motorbike riders especially love navigating the Ha Giang Loop—a twisting, thrilling route where every turn reveals new vistas.
But Ha Giang isn’t just about the scenery. This region brims with cultural richness, from the colorful markets where ethnic minority groups gather in traditional dress to the delicious, hearty local cuisine. As The Travel magazine says, “Ha Giang won’t let you down whether you go motorcycling or trekking and may entice you to keep exploring.”
Phan Thiet & Mui Ne – Sun, Sand, and Scenic Highways
When it comes to sunny escapes, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne in Binh Thuan province are gems for beach lovers. Located about 200 kilometers east of Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet offers peaceful beaches and a laid-back vibe. Photographers adore the road leading there, hailed as one of Vietnam’s most scenic coastal drives. Along the way, dragon fruit orchards stretch toward the horizon, adding vibrant pops of color to the landscape.
Mui Ne, just a short drive from Phan Thiet, is famous for its striking sand dunes that look like a slice of the Sahara dropped into Southeast Asia. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers who want to try sandboarding, kite surfing, or simply wandering across the dunes at sunrise. As The Travel suggests, “This destination is filled with fun activities under the sun such as kite flying, windsurfing, walking on the sand.”
Whether you’re after tranquil beaches or adrenaline-pumping adventures, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne won’t disappoint.
Da Nang – Hoi An – Hue: The Central Trio
Central Vietnam offers a seamless blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. Three destinations stand out in this region: Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue.
Da Nang has transformed into a modern, vibrant city known for its pristine beaches like My Khe, the lush Son Tra Peninsula, and unique architecture including the famed Dragon Bridge. It’s also the gateway to the region’s other iconic sites.
A short drive south lies Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage gem. This ancient town enchants visitors with its mustard-yellow buildings, lantern-lit streets, and riverside views. Wandering Hoi An feels like stepping into a storybook, where each alley reveals hidden cafés, traditional tailors, and centuries of history. It’s no wonder Hoi An ranks high on The Travel’s list of places that “do not disappoint.”
Further north, Hue is Vietnam’s imperial city, a destination that feels timeless. With its imposing Citadel, graceful pagodas, and the serene Perfume River, Hue captures the essence of Vietnam’s royal past. The Travel calls it “a studio for people who like to play Instagram and want perfect photos.” But beyond the photogenic scenes, Hue offers a deep dive into culture, with ancient tombs, imperial cuisine, and poetic landscapes recognized by UNESCO.
Together, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue create a travel trifecta brimming with beauty and history.
Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay on Land
Less than two hours from Hanoi, Ninh Binh offers landscapes so surreal they look almost otherworldly. Limestone karsts tower above emerald rivers winding through rice paddies, caves, and quiet valleys.
The jewel of Ninh Binh is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex—a network of caves and waterways that earned UNESCO World Heritage status. The Travel magazine perfectly sums it up: “In Ninh Binh, even the pictures taken in a hurry are great.”
Rowing through caves, you’ll emerge into hidden valleys framed by sheer cliffs. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or simply seeking peace, Ninh Binh’s serene beauty is unforgettable.
Sapa – Where Mountains Meet the Sky
High in Vietnam’s northwest mountains, Sa Pa is a destination of dreamy mist and soaring peaks. This region, dubbed the “Tonkinese Alps” by the French, is famed for its terraced rice fields that ripple across hillsides like green waves.
Sa Pa is one of Southeast Asia’s rare places where you might even glimpse snow. For many travelers, the highlight is meeting the region’s ethnic minorities, such as the H’Mong and Dao people, who maintain traditional lifestyles and vibrant cultures.
Whether trekking through valleys or simply sipping tea amid the clouds, Sa Pa is a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Da Lat – The City Without Traffic Lights
Nestled in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat feels like a European mountain town transplanted into Asia. Cool, fresh air, pine forests, and colorful flower gardens define the city’s charm. Da Lat is famously free of traffic lights—and traffic jams—adding to its relaxed atmosphere.
Despite being a local favorite, Da Lat remains surprisingly overlooked by foreign tourists. Yet those who venture here discover winding roads perfect for motorbike rides, hidden waterfalls, and cafés where you can sip some of Vietnam’s best coffee.
CNN once called Da Lat one of Asia’s most overlooked gems. Don’t overlook it on your next trip.
Tuy Hoa – Phu Yen’s Shining Star
Off the usual tourist trail, Tuy Hoa in Phu Yen province is quickly emerging as a must-visit coastal escape. By day, the sun bathes its beaches in brilliant light; by night, lanterns glow softly along streets and alleys. Tuy Hoa Beach stretches over 10 kilometers, offering plenty of space for solitude despite its growing popularity.
What makes Tuy Hoa special is its mix of bustling squares and quiet, hidden coves where you might find a beach almost entirely to yourself. Along this beautiful coastline, countless surprises await those willing to explore a little further.
From misty mountains to sunlit coasts, Vietnam is packed with destinations that live up to the promise of leaving no visitor disappointed. Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, nature, or culinary delights, Vietnam delivers—all with that unique charm that keeps travelers returning again and again.
