15 best places to visit in Vietnam in 2025

Let’s start off with the most vibrant, charming, and chaotic city of Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon, as it’s locally referred to). This metropolis is where illuminated skyscrapers tango with historical French architecture and street vendors. With its infinite traffic flows (and jams), century-old buildings, affordable world-class cuisine, stunning coffee shops, and youthful crowds, visitors will be blown away by the unmatched juxtaposition of the old and the new. Saigon also displays a colorful religious tapestry, known for its charming places of worship, such as Tan Dinh Church, Thien Hau Pagoda, and Mariamman Hindu Temple.

Moreover, as the leading economy of the country and the key aviation port of the South, Ho Chi Minh City is the most convenient destination for international tourists to fly in or out. If you’re into motorbike culture, fusion cuisine, architecture, and religion, Ho Chi Minh City will be your exciting playground.

The ancient town of Hoi An is where magic meets beauty. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this little town has earned its reputation far beyond its label. Whether you’re wandering its narrow alleys, cycling past golden rice paddy fields, sunbathing on An Bang beach, or feasting on white rose dumplings and Cao Lau noodles, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a movie.

For anyone who’s ever had a childhood dream, Hoi An is where magic comes to life: a tailor’s paradise where your dream dress is made within hours, just like Cinderella’s charming gown from her Fairy Godmother; a city of light reminiscent of Rapunzel’s lantern-filled sky – where candle-lit paper flowers float on the water, colorful lanterns illuminate the streets, and the gentle sound of splashing water accompanies your boat ride along the Hoai River. Hoi An is where you go to live your own fairytale.

Ranking third on the list is Hanoi. The capital of Vietnam is like a quiet, slightly moody (sometimes cranky) auntie who always has the best stories to tell. Hanoi’s legends are shared over a steaming bowl of Pho, at some corner in the buzzing Old Quarter. With its mossy tile-roofed temples, legendary lakes, and century-old tree-lined streets, every step you take feels like stepping into the past, into the history of a courageous nation.

It’s said that the charms of Hanoi lie in its tranquility and conservativeness, with a generation passionately and relentlessly preserving its traditions. I’d say Hanoi will initially puzzle you, much like the way tough love often confuses people. You might not fully understand Hanoi at first, but if you’re patient enough, it will grow on you quietly, and eventually, deeply.

For many years, Da Nang has been named the most livable city in Vietnam, thanks to its pleasant climate, well-planned infrastructure, and affordable cost of living. As far as tourism is concerned, Da Nang has everything to become a thriving tourist destination: beautiful beaches, scenic mountains, and impressive architectural icons like the Dragon Bridge and the Golden Bridge. Da Nang is also a paradise for holidaymakers, with a wide range of boutique and luxury resorts, as well as excellent wellness spa centers. Oh, how could food be left out? Da Nang’s cuisine is truly exceptional, especially for its price and quality. You can casually stumble upon a Michelin-starred eatery and enjoy the best meal of your life for less than $2.

Da Nang may not be as dreamlike as Hoi An or as intense as Ho Chi Minh City, but it’s got a bit of everything. If I were to imagine Da Nang as a dish, it would be a very well-seasoned and flavorful one.

We’re beyond happy to see Ninh Binh receiving the recognition it truly deserves. Ninh Binh is home to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the first imperial capital of feudal Vietnam. It offers lush landscapes, tranquil boat rides through limestone karsts, and ancient temples. It’s the kind of land where nature makes you feel humble in the best possible way. Take a boat along the emerald waterway, breathe in the milky fragrance of the young rice dancing on both sides while approaching the atmospheric religious complex, or hike up the timeless stone steps to reach Hang Mua Viewpoint. You’ll be convinced why it’s nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on Land”. Ninh Binh is truly a mystical land, packed with grand nature and ancient legends.

Ha Long City is best known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay – a sea of emerald waters dotted with towering limestone pillars. Ha Long Bay can be poetic on a beautiful sunny day, as if postcards come to life, or it can be mystical on a gloomy one, as if it were actually Skull Island where Kong could rise from the dark waters. Whether you’re kayaking through the karsts, diving in the bay’s waters, or just staring at the floating islands afar, Ha Long Bay appears equally magical. There are plenty of secluded beaches and trails in the city to explore if you’re into less touristy spots. Ha Long Bay is surely the highlight of the city, but it has much more to offer if you’re willing to venture out.

Nestled in the northwest region, Sapa is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse ethnic minority cultures, dreamlike rice terraces, and scenic hiking trails. This picturesque town is the ultimate destination for a misty mountain retreat with stylish and elegant boutique resorts. It’s a place where you can trek through indigenous villages, sample exotic food, and drink warm herbal tea while shrouded in a blanket of mist and clouds. Sapa is also home to Fansipan, the highest peak on the Indochinese peninsula, also known as the Roof of Indochina.

If you have a deep love for trail running, the Vietnam Mountain Marathon, one of the first trail races in Vietnam and also one of the most prestigious in Asia, takes place in Sapa and will add to the list of reasons to visit this mountainous town.

The former imperial capital of Hue seemingly remains immune to the fast-paced development of the country. Time in Hue ticks differently, and people embrace a slower pace of life. Hue preserves its history and traditions proudly and devotedly. Everything here – the people, the food, and the landscapes – emanates a silent aura of royalty. Whether you’re marveling at the ancient royal tombs or gazing at the poetic Perfume River, the city strikes with unparalleled charm. Also, the food in Hue is among the best of the best, both in diversity and flavor. You may need a food itinerary to ensure you don’t miss out on must-try local specialties, such as Bun Bo Hue, Hue sweet soup desserts, and clam rice and noodles.

This year, 2025, will be the best year to visit Hue, as the city is unveiling a new look: royal tombs and temples have been restored and renovated, infrastructure has been improved, and cultural festivals are planned throughout the year.

Da Lat is considered both a retreat destination and an unofficial honeymoon capital among locals. With its year-round cool climate, abundant flower gardens, and creative café setups, Da Lat is in full aesthetic bloom. Once a retreat for the French, you’ll find yourself wandering through French-inspired architecture as if you had time – and space-traveled to a European town tucked into the Vietnamese highlands. The culinary experience is elevated by farm-to-table produce, scenic landscapes, and the pleasant air surrounding you. There’s so much surprise packed into this little town. In short, it’s a place where poets come to write and dreamers come to dream.

Nha Trang is Vietnam’s ultimate beach city, not only for its pleasant weather but also for the wide range of water and adventurous activities it offers. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a lazy beach day on the soft white sands, under the shade of coconut trees, and by the blue waters gently washing ashore. Nha Trang also boasts impressive natural springs and a lively nightlife scene with bustling beach bars and pubs.

Nha Trang is home to one of the most vibrant dive sites in Vietnam, taking you to a different world away from the crowds.

Phu Quoc is a small island to the south of Vietnam, well known for its crystal-clear waters and luxury resorts. The island has been developed in a way that caters to all types of visitors. Whether you’re an adventurous solo traveler, a vacationer seeking royalty, or a family on holiday, the island has something to offer. Taking a cable car ride that opens up spectacular views of the fishing villages and the blue sea, or visiting Safari Phu Quoc, are excellent activities if you’re traveling with kids. The island is encircled by well-paved roads, making it ideal for a motorbike or bicycle trip. It’s truly a slice of paradise if you know where to go and how to find the authentic side of it.

Another beach town in the south recommended by voters is Mui Ne. This destination is somewhat out of the ordinary compared to typical Vietnamese landscapes. Apart from its reputation among kite surfers, Mui Ne is also known for its unique breed of Ninh Thuan grapes and the orange sand dunes that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a desert scene. You’ll have heroic fun sliding down the sand dunes, imagining yourself as Paul Atreides conquering the desert planet (if you’re a fan of Dune). The fishing villages in town bring in fresh seafood every day, which is another plus. Mui Ne is a rising star among beach towns in the south and is definitely worth a visit.

Most famous for its floating market and rustic charm, Can Tho encapsulates the soul of the Mekong Delta. Here, life unfolds on the water’s surface, from trading and eating to sleeping. Boats are people’s houses, and their years flow like the rivers. The best way to experience Can Tho’s spirit is by taking a morning cruise through Cai Rang Floating Market, eating breakfast on the boat passed to you from another boat, and sipping a fresh coconut while watching the vendors navigate their boats gracefully.

Just a short trip from Ho Chi Minh City is the most popular weekend beach escape for Southerners. It doesn’t do justice to this city to claim that it’s overrated. I think those who say so either haven’t spent enough time here or haven’t discovered the right places to go. Vung Tau offers a lovely mix of beaches, mountains, and temples, making it perfect for a getaway. Nature lovers would enjoy it here: easy access to mountain trails of all levels of difficulty, running under a lush canopy, as well as a pleasant swim site with the horizon on one side and the lively city on the other. The surf school in town is also becoming more popular among international visitors, and the decent waves here make it ideal for beginners. Not to mention, the city is renovating and investing more in entertainment facilities, such as a new square and aquarium under construction, promising a much more bustling and charming beach city.

Ha Giang is a hidden gem for those who seek a less-traveled road. Nestled in the mountainous region of the far North, Ha Giang is home to towering mountains, winding roads, and hill tribes. The raw, off-the-beaten-path nature of Ha Giang keeps it out of mainstream tourism, allowing for a more sensory and personalized travel experience. No fancy resorts, no mouth-watering specialties – Ha Giang wins one’s heart with its jaw-dropping views and heartwarming interactions with the tribal people. Ha Giang is a true adventure, and for many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.