If you ask a foreign visitor what makes Vietnam unforgettable, the answers often overflow. It could be the incredible food, the rich culture, or the warm smiles of locals. But beyond that, certain places capture travelers’ hearts so deeply that even after leaving, a piece of them remains here, longing to return.
So, let’s wander through the destinations in Vietnam that foreign tourists simply adore — places that have made Vietnam a shining star on the world travel map.
Hoi An – Where Time Stands Still
There’s a special magic in Hoi An that words can hardly capture. It’s a town where time seems to slow down. Ancient yellow walls glow in the sun, lanterns sway gently above narrow streets, and the scent of incense mingles with freshly brewed coffee.
Walking beside the Thu Bon River at dusk feels like stepping into a painting. Locals and tourists alike float paper lanterns downstream, each carrying a small wish. Hoi An isn’t just beautiful — it’s soulful.
It’s no wonder it’s ranked among the top 10 most charming cities in Asia by travel magazines like Smart Travel Asia. The old-world architecture, vibrant culture, delicious street food, and timeless atmosphere make this little town a must-see for travelers from around the globe.
Sa Pa – Touching the Sky in the Northern Highlands
Sa Pa, high up in the mountains of Lao Cai province, is pure poetry for nature lovers. Misty mornings roll across terraced rice fields that wrap around the hills like green ribbons. At sunrise, sunlight pierces through the clouds, painting the peaks in gold.
But Sa Pa’s magic isn’t only in its landscapes. It’s also the colorful presence of the ethnic minority communities — Hmong, Dao, Tay — whose cultures and traditions make Sa Pa feel like another world. Travelers love staying in homestays, trekking through the hills, and learning stories from local families.
Fansipan, the “Roof of Indochina,” calls adventurous souls to climb higher. And though the journey can be tough, standing above the clouds makes it all worthwhile.
Hanoi – Where Ancient Meets Modern
Hanoi, Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital, is a fascinating puzzle of old and new. Motorbikes zip through traffic, centuries-old temples hide between modern buildings, and the smell of street food wafts around every corner.
Foreign travelers love wandering through the Old Quarter’s labyrinth of alleys, trying legendary dishes like pho, bun cha, or crispy Vietnamese spring rolls. The city’s French colonial architecture, tranquil lakes, and thriving café culture make it an endlessly photogenic and fascinating place.
In 2019, TripAdvisor ranked Hanoi among the top 25 global destinations, and it’s easy to see why: it’s chaotic, charming, and completely addictive.
Ha Long Bay – Nature’s Masterpiece
Few sights in the world compare to the grandeur of Ha Long Bay. Thousands of limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald waters, creating a seascape that feels both ancient and ethereal. It’s like sailing through a watercolor painting.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay appears in countless travel photos and bucket lists. Whether kayaking through hidden caves, sleeping on a luxury junk boat, or simply soaking up the scenery, visitors leave with memories that last a lifetime.
Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s City That Never Sleeps
While some travelers seek peace and quiet, others crave energy and action — and that’s where Ho Chi Minh City delivers. Known for decades as Saigon, this bustling metropolis hums with life day and night.
Skyscrapers sparkle above historic French architecture, trendy coffee shops buzz with conversation, and food vendors dish out steaming bowls of noodles right on the sidewalk.
For foreign travelers, Saigon is a city of contrasts: modern and traditional, sophisticated and gritty. It’s impossible to be bored here, whether exploring markets, discovering hidden bars, or just watching the swirl of scooters dance through traffic.
Da Lat – Vietnam’s Cool Mountain Hideaway
Tucked in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat offers a refreshing change of pace — and temperature. Nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring,” it’s a romantic place with misty pine forests, blooming flower gardens, and cool mountain air.
Foreign travelers fall in love with Da Lat’s peaceful vibe. Couples rent swan-shaped boats on tranquil lakes, while adventurers tackle canyoning, mountain biking, or hiking.
And then there’s the coffee. Da Lat’s cafes, many hidden in charming old villas, serve some of Vietnam’s finest brews — the perfect way to warm up on a chilly morning.
Ninh Binh – Vietnam’s Inland Ha Long Bay
Only a couple of hours from Hanoi, Ninh Binh feels like a different universe. Rivers wind through towering limestone cliffs, passing temples tucked into caves and fields of lush rice paddies.
Foreign travelers call it “Ha Long Bay on land,” and rightly so. Cruising by small boat through Trang An’s cave systems or climbing the steps at Hang Mua for panoramic views are unforgettable experiences.
It’s quieter than other tourist hotspots, perfect for visitors craving natural beauty and moments of serenity.
Da Nang – The City of Bridges and Beaches
Da Nang has long been known as Vietnam’s “most livable city.” It’s modern yet laid-back, with stunning beaches stretching along the coastline and iconic bridges lighting up the skyline.
Foreign travelers adore Da Nang for its mix of attractions: from the dazzling Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills to the city’s delicious seafood, buzzing night markets, and friendly locals.
It’s the perfect springboard to explore central Vietnam — and many visitors come back again and again to soak up its sunny vibe.
Mui Ne, Binh Thuan – A Playground of Sand and Sea
Binh Thuan province, especially Mui Ne, has a wild beauty that captivates the adventurous traveler. Imagine endless dunes of red and white sand rippling under the sun, contrasted with sapphire-blue sea.
Foreign tourists love exploring the dunes on quad bikes, trying kitesurfing in the strong coastal winds, or simply lounging on quiet beaches. For photographers, Mui Ne’s landscapes offer spectacular shots at sunrise and sunset.
Hue – A Dreamy City Steeped in History
Hue, once Vietnam’s imperial capital, whispers stories of royalty, war, and poetry. The Perfume River glides past ancient citadels and tombs, while gentle rain often blankets the city in a soft mist.
Foreign travelers find themselves enchanted by Hue’s elegance — from exploring the majestic Imperial City to savoring delicate royal cuisine served in small, artfully arranged portions.
There’s a quiet magic in Hue that feels both romantic and timeless, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand Vietnam’s soul.
Vietnam is not just a country — it’s an experience. From high mountains cloaked in mist to lantern-lit streets and vibrant cities pulsing with life, each destination tells a different story. For foreign travelers, it’s not only about seeing beautiful places — it’s about feeling the heartbeat of a land where tradition and modernity coexist in colorful harmony.
