Top 12 Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam
Vietnam is a beautiful and diverse country with a rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning natural scenery. From bustling cities to charming ancient towns and beautiful beaches, Vietnam has something for everyone. The cuisine is also exceptional, and the people are warm and welcoming. A visit to Vietnam is an unforgettable experience.
Below I am detailing the best cities to visit in Vietnam, from Northern, Central, to Southern regions of Vietnam.
Top 12 Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam:
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay – one of my favorites!
- Sapa
- Hoi An – one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam!
- Hue
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Nha Trang
- Da Nong
- Mui Ne
- Can Tho (Mekong Delta)
- Phu Quoc
Hanoi
Location: Northern Vietnam, 2 hours from Halong Bay
Most Known For: Capital City; Train Road
Best Hotel: LeaH Silk Hotel
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. The city is known for its rich history, French colonial architecture, and vibrant street life.
Some of the top attractions in Hanoi include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and street vendors, where you can sample some of the best street food in Vietnam. In fact, you can take a Street Food tour that gives you access to the famous Train Road in Hanoi!
I also loved going to the Water Puppet Show – this is a great way to learn about the culture of Vietnam through a unique form of art!
Halong Bay
Location: Northern Vietnam, 2 hours from Hanoi
Most Known For: Towering Limestone Cliffs
Best Hotel: Book an Overnight Boat!
Visiting Halong Bay is a must-do experience for anyone traveling to Vietnam. Located in the northeast of the country, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs that rise majestically from the sea.
A trip to Halong Bay offers the opportunity to explore the bay’s many islands and caves, go kayaking through hidden lagoons, and take in stunning panoramic views from the top of its many cliffs.
The best way to experience the beauty of Halong Bay is on a traditional Vietnamese junk boat, where you can relax on the deck while cruising through the bay’s breathtaking scenery.
Whether you choose to take a day trip or spend a few nights on a boat, visiting Halong Bay is sure to be a highlight of your Vietnam adventure.
Sapa
Location: Northwest Vietnam
Most Known For: Lush Rice Fields
Best Hotel:
Sapa (Sa Pa) is a mountainous town located in the northwest region of Vietnam. The town is known for its terraced rice fields, hill tribes, and trekking activities. It is likely that when you think of Vietnam, you think of Sapa, which is exactly why it should be on your list of cities to visit in Vietnam!
Some of the top attractions in Sapa include the Fansipan Mountain, the Muong Hoa Valley, and the Love Waterfall. While in Sapa, be sure to enjoy panoramic views over the rice terraces!
Hoi An
Location: Central Vietnam
Most Known For: Floating Lanterns, Custom Made Suits
Best Hotel: Cozy Savvy Boutique
Hoi An is the most beautiful city in Vietnam. You absolutely must add this to your list of cities to visit in Vietnam – I promise you won’t regret it!
Hoi An is a charming ancient town located in central Vietnam. The town has preserved its traditional architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful lanterns, making it one of the most picturesque places in Vietnam. You can take a Lantern Making Class in Hoi An to learn more about this beautiful art form!
Some of the top attractions in Hoi An include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Tan Ky Old House, and the night market. The town is also famous for its tailor shops, where you can get custom-made clothing at a reasonable price. I recommend going to Yaly!
Read More: Best Things To Do in Hoi An
Hue
Location: Central Vietnam
Most Known For: Imperial City
Best Hotel: Hue River Side Villa
Hue is a former imperial capital city located in central Vietnam. The city is known for its historical monuments, temples, and cuisine.
Some of the top attractions in Hue include the Imperial City, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Tombs of the Emperors. Hue is also famous for its cuisine, which is a fusion of royal cuisine and street food.
Be sure to end the day in Hue with a Sunset River Cruise that includes traditional music and singing!
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Location: Southern Vietnam
Most Known For: Largest City, War Museums & War Tunnels
Best Hotel: Orchids Saigon Hotel
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a hub of commerce, culture, and nightlife. The city has a mix of modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks, such as the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
For a taste of local culture, head to the bustling Ben Thanh Market or sample some street food in one of the many food stalls scattered around the city.
Near Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to check out the War Tunnels (offsite from the Museum listed above).
Nha Trang
Location: Southern Vietnam
Most Known For: Island Hopping
Best Hotel: Azura Gold Hotel
Nha Trang is a coastal city located in southern Vietnam. The city has beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and water sports activities, making it a popular destination for beach lovers.
Some of the top attractions in Nha Trang include the Hon Mun Island, the Po Nagar Cham Towers, and the Long Son Pagoda. One of my personal favorite activities in Nha Trang was the mud baths and spa!
Da Nang
Location: Central Vietnam, near Hoi An
Most Known For: Caves, Mountains, and More!
Best Hotel: Sofiana My Khe Hotel
Da Nang is a modern city located in central Vietnam. The city has stunning bridges, beautiful beaches, and popular attractions like the Marble Mountains (glorious system of caves, temples, etc) and Ba Na Hills (iconic bridge with hands).
Mui Ne
Location: Southern Vietnam
Most Known For: Sandy Beaches
Best Hotel: Villa Aria Boutique Muine
Mui Ne is a coastal town located in southern Vietnam. The town has beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and kite surfing activities. Some of the top attractions in Mui Ne include the Fairy Stream, the Red Sand Dunes, and the Fishing Village.
Can Tho (Mekong Delta)
Location: Southern Vietnam
Most Known For: Floating Markets
Best Hotel: Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa
Can Tho is a bustling city located in the Mekong Delta. The city is known for its floating markets, fruit orchards, and traditional rural life. Some of the top attractions in Can Tho include the Cai Rang Floating Market, the Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, and the Binh Thuy Ancient House.
Phu Quoc
Location: Island South of Vietnam mainland
Most Known For: Beautiful Beaches
Best Hotel: SOL by Melia OR JW Marriott Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand, famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and seafood. This island has the longest ocean Cable Car that will take you to Pineapple Island for more beaches and views!
From pristine beaches and stunning landscapes to cultural attractions and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone on this beautiful island.
Final Thoughts on Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam
Each city has its unique charm and attractions, making Vietnam a great destination for a diverse range of experiences.
If I had to pick my two favorite cities to visit in Vietnam, I would pick Halong Bay and Hoi An. Both are so unique to the country of Vietnam and something you won’t get to experience anywhere else! Share your your favorite cities to visit in Vietnam in the comments below!
Want more? Read about my best travel tips and things you should know before you go to Vietnam.
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