Vietnam is one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia – and not just because it’s easy on the wallet. Despite a turbulent past, this resilient country offers a thrilling mix of the traditional and the unexpected.
You’ll find steaming bowls of phở in Hanoi’s alleys, lantern-lit nights in Hoi An, and motorbike chaos in Ho Chi Minh City, from white-sand beaches in Da Nang to the misty peaks of Ha Giang, the country’s long, narrow shape packs in serious variety.
This is a land of cave systems that could swallow skyscrapers, rice paddies the color of jade, and hilltribe villages where the welcome is real. What ties it all together is Vietnam’s fierce pride, infectious energy, and food worth planning a trip around.
If you’re after the best places to visit in Vietnam, prepare for something bold, beautiful, and entirely unforgettable.
Questions about the best places to see in Vietnam
What is the best place to visit in Vietnam?−
The best place to visit in Vietnam depends on your interests, but Hanoi is a strong starting point. The capital combines French-colonial architecture with chaotic markets, street food, and centuries-old temples.
Beyond the cities, Halong Bay’s limestone islands are a must, especially on an overnight cruise. In the center, Hoi An draws visitors with its lantern-lit streets and riverside cafés, while the far north offers dramatic mountain scenery around Sapa and Ha Giang.
Vietnam stretches over 1,000 miles, so a tailor-made trip helps you figure out what to prioritize and builds in enough time to enjoy each region without rushing.