Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Vietnam for Foreign Travelers (2025 Guide)

Where to Go in Vietnam for First-Time Visitors

Vietnam is a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, delicious street food, and rich history. Whether you’re a backpacker, a beach lover, or a culture enthusiast, Vietnam offers something for everyone.

If you’re wondering where to go on your Vietnam trip, here are the top 10 must-visit places in Vietnam for foreign tourists — each handpicked for a unique experience.

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1️⃣ Ha Long Bay – World Heritage Wonder 🌊

Located in northern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands.

• 🛳️ Activities: Cruise tours, kayaking, cave exploration

• 🏝️ Must-See: Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island

• ✅ Best time to visit: October to April

💡 UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top photo spot in Southeast Asia.

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2️⃣ Hanoi – Vietnam’s Charming Capital 🏯

Hanoi is a mix of French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant street life.

• 🥢 Don’t miss: Pho, egg coffee, bun cha

• 📍 Top attractions: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

• 🚶‍♂️ Great for: Walking, street food, and cultural immersion

Tip: Book a walking tour or food tour to get the most out of your visit.

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3️⃣ Ninh Binh – The “Halong Bay on Land” 🚣

Just 2 hours from Hanoi, Ninh Binh offers stunning karst landscapes and peaceful countryside.

• 🛶 Explore: Tam Coc boat ride, Trang An, Bai Dinh Pagoda

• 🎥 Famous for: “Kong: Skull Island” filming location

• 🚲 Great for: Cycling through rice fields and villages

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4️⃣ Sapa – Mountain Trekking & Ethnic Culture 🏞️

Located in the far north, Sapa is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

• 🥾 Top activities: Trekking, homestays, mountain hikes

• ⛅ Cool weather: Best from March to May or September to November

• 👣 Learn from: Hmong, Dao, and other ethnic minorities

Tip: Book a local guide for an authentic trek and homestay experience.

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5️⃣ Hue – The Ancient Imperial Capital 🏰

Once home to Nguyen Dynasty emperors, Hue is Vietnam’s most historic city.

• 🏯 Visit: Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda

• 🍜 Taste: Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup)

• 🚤 Take a boat ride on the Perfume River

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6️⃣ Da Nang – Beach City with Urban Comfort 🏖️

Da Nang is a modern city with clean beaches, great food, and easy access to other destinations.

• 🏄 Best beaches: My Khe Beach, Non Nuoc Beach

• 🌉 Attractions: Dragon Bridge, Marble Mountains

• 🚠 Day trip: Take the cable car to Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge

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7️⃣ Hoi An – The Lantern-Lit Ancient Town 🎨

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is known for its well-preserved Old Town and romantic atmosphere.

• 🏮 See: Japanese Covered Bridge, colorful lanterns at night

• 🧵 Try: Tailor-made clothes within 24–48 hours

• 🚲 Explore by bicycle and enjoy the countryside

💡 Best visited during the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival.

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8️⃣ Nha Trang – Beach & Island Paradise 🏝️

For sun-seekers, Nha Trang offers turquoise water, lively nightlife, and island-hopping fun.

• 🚤 Take tours to: Hon Mun, Hon Tam, and more

• 🏊 Activities: Snorkeling, diving, jet skiing

• 🛁 Relax in: Natural hot springs and mud baths

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9️⃣ Da Lat – The “City of Eternal Spring” 🌸

A peaceful retreat in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat is known for its cool climate and flower gardens.

• 🌼 Must-see: Crazy House, Valley of Love, Tuyen Lam Lake

• ☕ Taste: Local coffee and wine

• 🚲 Ideal for: Couples and nature lovers

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🔟 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam’s Vibrant Metropolis 🌆

The largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is full of energy, history, and modern life.

• 🏙️ Visit: War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market

• 🍻 Enjoy: Rooftop bars and street food scenes

• 🛵 Best explored by: Scooter or walking tour

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✅ Bonus: Phu Quoc Island – Tropical Getaway 🌴

Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc, is ideal for a relaxing beach escape.

• 🏖️ White sand beaches, luxury resorts, coral reefs

• 🐠 Try snorkeling or diving

• 🛬 Direct flights from Hanoi, Saigon, or abroad

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🧳 Before You Go: Don’t Forget Your Vietnam Visa

Most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam.

👉 Apply easily online at VietnamVisaEasy.com

• e-Visa for 90 days (single/multiple entry)

• 24/7 English support

• Fast approval within 1–2 working days

“Your visa. Our priority.” ✅