10 Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam for First-Time Travelers

 When people think of Vietnam, they often picture endless rice fields, vibrant street food markets, or the limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay. But the truth is, Vietnam is a land of astonishing contrasts – where emerald mountains meet turquoise seas, and where centuries-old traditions live alongside bustling modern cities.

If you are visiting Vietnam for the very first time, here are 10 destinations you simply cannot miss. They are not only iconic, but also offer the perfect introduction to the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

1. Ha Long Bay – The Jewel of the Gulf of Tonkin

Halong Bay – a masterpiece painted by nature with waves and stone. Amid drifting clouds and the emerald sea, thousands of limestone islands rise like eternal monuments. Some are as graceful as sails billowing in the wind, while others are as majestic as dragons curling upon the waves. On the bay, white-sailed boats glide slowly, leading travelers through magical caves and onto smooth sandy beaches, where golden sunlight stretches across and gentle waves lap the shore. Here, water and mountains entwine, sky and sea embrace, creating a natural picture both grand and poetic.

Highlight: Towering limestone karsts, emerald waters, overnight cruises.

Why visit: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often described as a natural wonder of the world. Sailing through its thousands of limestone islands feels like stepping into a dream, especially aboard a luxurious 2-Day Lan Ha & Halong Bay 5 Stars Cruise with Balcony for a full overnight experience.

🌊 Discover the full beauty of this natural wonder – read the detailed Ha Long Bay guide here.

Best time: October to April for clear skies and calm seas.

📸  Ha Long – a natural masterpiece with emerald-green waters

2. Hanoi – Where Old Meets New

“Hanoi in autumn – golden milkwood leaves, crimson almond trees, ancient houses standing shoulder to shoulder.”

Just a few lines from the song “Hanoi in Autumn” by Trịnh Công Sơn are enough to capture the very soul of the city. Autumn weaves through the narrow streets, where moss-covered roofs meet old trees changing their hues with the season. Hanoi is not only the capital; it is a living memory, where past and present intertwine, and every step invites travelers to touch the eternal spirit of Vietnam.

In Hanoi, visitors can stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, admire the solemn beauty of the Temple of Literature, or lose themselves in the bustling maze of the Old Quarter. The people of Hanoi embody a discreet elegance, tinged with the composure of a thousand years of heritage, yet warm and refined in every daily gesture. This harmony of history, culture, and everyday life makes Hanoi not just a destination, but an experience that leaves behind an unforgettable resonance.

Highlight: The Old Quarter, French colonial architecture, lakes and street food.

Why visit: Hanoi captures Vietnam’s soul with its blend of tradition and modernity. Stroll through narrow alleys filled with cafes, temples, and local life. For a truly immersive experience, join a Guided Food Tour with Train Street Visit to taste Hanoi’s iconic street dishes while wandering the vibrant lanes of the Old Quarter. Don’t miss pho for breakfast or egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake.

Your complete guide to Hanoi’s must-see spots and flavors.

Best time: Autumn (September–November) when the air is crisp and the city feels most romantic.

📸 Turtle Tower on Hoan Kiem Lake – a touch of timeless charm in the heart of Hanoi

3. Sa Pa – The Misty Mountain Town

Sa Pa – where clouds drift over mountain peaks and terraced fields stretch endlessly to the horizon.

In the crisp mountain air, emerald-green rice terraces cradle villages roofed with mossy thatch, while H’Mong, Dao, and Tày people brighten the landscape in their vibrant traditional attire. Winding mountain trails lead travelers across swaying bamboo bridges, past cascading white waterfalls, and along murmuring streams. Wrapped in morning mist and touched by the soft glow of sunset, Sa Pa reveals a beauty both majestic and tender — a highland memory where nature and people speak in the language of clouds and leaves. For those who prefer a guided adventure, the 1-day Motorbike Tour to Waterfalls & Local Villages offers an exhilarating way to explore Sa Pa’s hidden gems while experiencing local culture up close.

Highlight: Rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, Fansipan peak.

Why visit: Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, Sa Pa is Vietnam’s gateway to trekking adventures. The landscape is breathtaking, especially in September when rice terraces turn golden.

Discover the year-round beauty of Sa Pa and the rich culture of Vietnam’s highlands – read the full article here.

Best time: March–May and September–November.

📸 Sapa, Vietnam – where majestic mountains and tranquil valleys touch your soul

4. Ha Giang – The Untamed Beauty of the North

Ha Giang – where stone and flowers sing together. Across the vast Dong Van Karst Plateau, endless ridges of grey rock stretch to the horizon, softened each season by the gentle pink and purple bloom of buckwheat flowers. Ma Pi Leng Pass winds like a ribbon across the sky, embracing the emerald Nho Que River curling through the deep valley below. At Vietnam’s northernmost point, the Lung Cu Flag Tower rises proudly against the wind, reminding travelers of a land both wild and proud — a land that bears the unmistakable imprint of Ha Giang.

Since July 1, 2025, Ha Giang has been administratively merged into Tuyen Quang Province, yet its landscapes and spirit remain timeless, untouched by change.

Highlight: Dong Van Karst Plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass, ethnic culture.

Why visit: For those who crave adventure, Ha Giang offers Vietnam’s most dramatic landscapes. Winding mountain passes and colorful markets make it unforgettable. For an unforgettable journey, consider the 3-Day Motorbike Ha Giang Loop Luxury Tour with Easy Rider, where expert guides lead you through dramatic landscapes, ethnic villages, and hidden corners of the Dong Van Plateau.

Curious to explore more? - Read more about Ha Giang Loop here.

Best time: October–November during the buckwheat flower season.

📸 Ma Pi Leng Pass – winding roads carving through Ha Giang’s majestic mountains

5. Ninh Binh – The Inland Ha Long Bay

Amid the Northern Delta, Ninh Bình emerges like a living watercolor painting. Endless limestone karsts reflect upon the Ngô Đồng River, where small boats drift slowly past golden rice fields and mysterious caves. Tam Cốc – Bích Động is hailed as the “second most remarkable grotto in the South,” while Tràng An leads visitors into a winding labyrinth of rivers and mountains, where sky and water merge in a space both majestic and poetic. In Ninh Bình, one encounters not only pristine natural beauty but also the depth of history and culture, from the ancient capital of Hoa Lư to serene temples hidden along the mountainsides. For adventure lovers, the Cuc Phuong Jungle Hike & Wildlife Day Trip offers a chance to explore Vietnam’s oldest national park, spotting rare wildlife and trekking through lush jungle landscapes.

Highlight: Trang An boat rides, Tam Coc rice paddies, ancient Hoa Lu.

Why visit: Ninh Binh is where dramatic karst mountains rise above lush rice fields and winding rivers. A peaceful alternative to Ha Long Bay, yet equally stunning.

Discover more of Ninh Bình’s rivers, mountains, and temples in our detailed guide.

Best time: May–June during harvest season.

📸 Drifting peacefully along the tranquil rivers of Tam Coc

6. Hue – The Imperial Capital

Nestled along the serene Perfume River, Hue stands as a testament to Vietnam's imperial grandeur. Once the capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 to 1945, this ancient city is a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The Imperial City, or Dai Noi, is a walled citadel that houses majestic palaces, temples, and the Forbidden Purple City, where emperors once resided. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hue's architectural splendor is matched only by its tranquil landscapes, including the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and the meandering Perfume River. Beyond its historical landmarks, Hue is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, traditional music, and exquisite cuisine, offering visitors a journey through time and tradition.

Ready to explore Hue’s quiet, imperial charm in depth? Read our full guide to Hue’s best kept secrets, from royal tombs to the riverside rituals.

Highlight: The Citadel, royal tombs, Perfume River.

Why Visit: Drift along the Perfume River, explore ancient temples, and soak in the serene, poetic charm of Hue’s imperial heritage. For history enthusiasts, the DMZ Tour with Vinh Moc Tunnels and Khe Sanh Base offers a fascinating journey into Vietnam’s wartime past just outside the city.

Best time: February–April.

📸  Hue Citadel’s gate – a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial heritage

7. Da Nang – The City by the Sea

Da Nang is where sea, mountains, and modern city life converge. My Khe Beach stretches with soft white sand, the Dragon Bridge breathes fire on weekends, and the Golden Bridge rises majestically from the Ba Na Hills. The city also boasts cultural landmarks like the Marble Mountains and Cham Museum, along with luxury resorts and vibrant street food. Da Nang is an ideal destination to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of central Vietnam. Take in the spectacular views on the Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills Full-Day Tour from Da Nang/Hoi An, where the mountains, sky, and iconic bridge create a picture-perfect day trip.

Highlight: My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills.

Why visit: Da Nang blends modern living with natural charm. It’s also a perfect base to explore both Hue and Hoi An. For a closer look at the city’s highlights, consider the Lady Buddha, Marble Mountains, and Am Phu Cave Tour.

Best time: March–September for beach weather.

📸 Dragon Bridge in Da Nang – the majestic dragon stretching across the Han River

8. Hoi An – The Lantern Town

Nestled along the Thu Bồn River, Hoi An charms visitors with its timeless streets, adorned with colorful lanterns swaying gently in the breeze. Ancient merchant houses, ornate temples, and quaint riverside cafés tell stories of centuries past, while the scent of incense and local cuisine lingers in the air. As night falls, lanterns illuminate narrow alleys, reflecting on the water, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that captures the very soul of this riverside town.

Highlight: Ancient Town, colorful lanterns, tailor shops.

Why visit: Hoi An is like stepping into a painting. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town glows beautifully at night when lanterns light up the streets.

If you need peace, Hoi An – Ancient Town will make time feel like it slows down. 

For a unique riverside adventure, explore the Basket Boat Ride in the Coconut Forest, gliding through winding waterways shaded by lush coconut palms.

Best time: Full moon nights when the Lantern Festival takes place.

📸 The ancient town of Hoi An shimmering in the glow of the lantern festival

9. Nha Trang – Vietnam’s Beach Paradise

Nestled along Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang dazzles with its turquoise waters, golden beaches, and vibrant marine life. From the bustling city harbor to the tranquil islands offshore, the city offers a perfect mix of sun, sea, and cultural charm. Ancient Cham towers peek through modern resorts, while lively markets and seaside cafés add local color, making Nha Trang both a paradise for relaxation and a hub for adventure.

Highlight: Long sandy beaches, snorkeling, offshore islands.

Why visit: Nha Trang is where sun-seekers flock. With lively nightlife and water sports, it’s perfect for those who want both relaxation and fun. Dive into adventure with a Scuba Diving Experience for Non-Certified Divers and explore Nha Trang’s vibrant underwater world.

Best time: January–August.

📸 Nha Trang Beach sparkling under golden sunshine and turquoise waves

10. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Beating Heart of the South

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, pulses with energy and history, where skyscrapers and colonial buildings stand side by side. The streets teem with motorbikes weaving through bustling markets, vibrant cafés, and colorful street food stalls, creating a symphony of sights, sounds, and aromas. From the grandeur of the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office to the poignant War Remnants Museum, the city tells stories of Vietnam’s past and present.

Along the Saigon River, sunset glows cast a golden hue over the modern skyline, while hidden alleyways reveal tranquil temples, cozy eateries, and the heartbeat of local life. Saigon is a place where tradition and modernity coexist, offering travelers an immersive experience of southern Vietnam’s culture, cuisine, and relentless vibrancy.

Highlight: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum.

Why visit: Saigon captivates with its relentless energy and rich contrasts — from bustling street markets to quiet riverside temples. Along the Saigon River, experience the region’s vibrant life with a 2-Day Mekong Floating Market Tour with Cooking & Bike Ride, exploring floating markets, cycling through villages, and learning local culinary secrets.

Best time: December–April (dry season).

📸 Ho Chi Minh City by the river, its shimmering reflection dancing on the water

✨ Conclusion

Vietnam is more than just a destination – it’s a journey of the senses. From misty mountains in the north to golden beaches in the south, every stop tells a story of beauty, resilience, and warmth.

For first-time travelers, these 10 destinations provide the perfect map to discover Vietnam’s charm. Whether you’re chasing adventure, history, or simply the joy of travel, Vietnam will welcome you with open arms.