It’s often said that no matter where you stop in this S-shaped land, Vietnam will always offer you fascinating sights, sounds, and experiences. Yet if you had to choose, which are the 10 best cities to visit in Vietnam?
With diverse terrain stretching from towering mountains to vast coastlines and emerald rice fields, Vietnam continues to shine as a captivating destination on the global tourism map. Traveling from north to south, the landscape transforms from dramatic peaks to gentle plains, from spectacular vistas to simple rural scenes. Each of Vietnam’s six cultural regions—from the Red River Delta and the Northwest highlands to the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta—has its own unique beauty and cultural treasures.
So, what are the most attractive tourist cities in Vietnam, and what makes each of them special? Let’s discover them one by one!
Hoi An
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, Hoi An has secured its place on global travel bucket lists. In 2019, it even claimed the top spot in Travel + Leisure’s ranking of the best cities in the world.
Nestled amid modern urban areas, Hoi An retains an ancient, mysterious charm mixed with youthful vibrance. Once a thriving trading port from the 16th to the 18th century, this small city reflects a harmonious blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Western influences.
Strolling through Hoi An’s narrow streets, visitors are enchanted by Chinese-style shophouses, graceful lanterns, and colonial-era buildings. Local crafts and art products tempt shoppers at every corner.
And then there’s the food—Hoi An’s cuisine beautifully bridges Asian and Western palates while staying true to Vietnamese flavors. Above all, Hoi An’s timeless architecture and gentle atmosphere allow visitors to immerse themselves in nostalgia for a bygone era.
[Read more: Hoi An tourism: 5 reasons to prove why this town comes highly recommended by TripAdvisor]
Mui Ne
Once a peaceful fishing village, Mui Ne has transformed into a sought-after beach destination, especially popular among travelers from nearby Ho Chi Minh City. Despite its popularity, Mui Ne retains a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
The area is a haven for windsurfers and kitesurfers, thanks to steady winds and strong waves. Away from the sea, visitors are mesmerized by the region’s famous golden sand dunes, which shift into ever-changing, photogenic shapes.
Mui Ne also offers glimpses into Cham culture, where you can enjoy traditional performances and admire the vibrant attire of Cham communities.
Da Lat
Known as Vietnam’s “City of Eternal Spring,” Da Lat sits over 1,500 meters above sea level, where cool temperatures and fresh mountain air prevail all year.
Originally inhabited by indigenous highland groups, Da Lat was developed by the French as a resort town during colonial times. European architecture blends with pine forests, hills, and flower gardens, creating Da Lat’s signature romantic vibe.
Visitors flock here to find peace, reflect quietly, or explore the abundant natural beauty—waterfalls, pine forests, lakes, and flower valleys make Da Lat a true highland paradise.
Nha Trang
One of Vietnam’s premier coastal destinations, Nha Trang charms visitors with its long, crescent-shaped bay, lively entertainment spots, and beautiful white-sand beaches.
Along the shore, parks dotted with sculptures peek out from palm and coconut trees. Visitors can hop on boats to explore over 20 nearby islands, go scuba diving among vibrant coral reefs, or delve into marine science at the Institute of Oceanography.
Nha Trang’s cuisine delights seafood lovers, while cultural treasures like the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers add historical intrigue to any visit.
Can Tho
“Can Tho has white rice and clear water, whoever goes there doesn’t want to return.”
This lyrical saying captures the charm of Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta. Nourished by rich alluvial soil, Can Tho is a lush land of fruit orchards and vibrant gardens.
A highlight here is visiting the bustling floating markets, where boats brim with tropical produce and locals trade goods on the river. Take a sampan ride along calm waterways, enjoy folk songs drifting through the air, and savor fresh delta cuisine.
Sapa
Nestled high in the northwest, Sapa is a must-visit for lovers of pristine mountain scenery. Misty valleys, cascading terraces, and diverse ethnic communities define this enchanting town.
Sitting on a mountaintop with a cup of steaming tea, watching the dawn break over rolling hills—that’s the quintessential Sapa experience.
Despite increasing tourism, Sapa retains its authenticity, reflected in local handicrafts, colorful markets, and traditional festivals celebrated by ethnic groups such as the H’mong, Dao, and Tay.
[Read more: 8 reasons why Sapa is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam]
Vung Tau
About 120 km south of Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau offers a breezy seaside escape for both locals and international travelers.
A peninsula embraced by the sea on three sides, Vung Tau features wide boulevards, colonial-era mansions, and clean beaches. Along the coastal roads, seafood restaurants beckon with delicious dishes.
A standout sight is the Christ the Redeemer statue, reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro’s famous landmark, standing tall above the city’s skyline.
Chau Doc
Located on the banks of the Tien and Hau rivers near the Cambodian border, Chau Doc is the last stop of the mighty Mekong River in Vietnam. Rich silt deposits have blessed the region with abundant fish and fertile soil.
Chau Doc is renowned for its fermented fish products—from snakehead fish sauce to anchovy paste—which delight adventurous food lovers.
Beyond culinary experiences, Chau Doc dazzles with cultural diversity. Here, Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer, and Cham communities coexist, each contributing distinct architecture, cuisine, and traditions. From Khmer temples to Cham mosques, the cultural tapestry is vibrant and colorful.
Hue
For history buffs and culture lovers, Hue is a gem beyond compare. Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue boasts five UNESCO-recognized heritage assets, including the Complex of Hue Monuments, Royal Court Music, and the poetic system of royal architecture inscriptions.
Despite the ravages of war, Hue preserves its majestic citadel, royal tombs, and ancient pagodas. The city is split by the tranquil Perfume River, with dragon boats drifting gracefully along its waters.
In Hue, every street corner whispers stories of emperors, scholars, and centuries of history.
Bac Ha
Perched at 1,200 meters above sea level in Lao Cai province, Bac Ha is affectionately called the “White Plateau,” thanks to mist-shrouded mountains that embrace the town year-round.
Bac Ha comes alive on Sundays, when ethnic minorities such as the H’mong, Dao, Tay, Nung, and Giay flock to the town’s lively market. From handmade textiles to livestock trading, the market is a vibrant cultural showcase.
The town is surrounded by cone-shaped peaks, creating a breathtaking natural backdrop. During market days, artisans perform music and cultural demonstrations, immersing visitors in the unique spirit of Vietnam’s northern highlands.
Explore Vietnam’s Diversity
Each of these cities represents a different facet of Vietnam’s incredible diversity. Whether you’re drawn to ancient towns, sun-drenched beaches, misty mountains, or fertile river deltas, Vietnam promises unforgettable experiences in every corner.
