18 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam for First-Time Travelers

Vietnam — the charming S-shaped country — is blessed with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating culture, and stories that stay with you long after your trip ends. When searching for the Best Places to Visit in Vietnam, you’ll quickly realize it’s nearly impossible to capture all of the country’s beauty in a single article. But if you’re planning your journey and still wondering where to go, let AOJ guide you through 30 of the most stunning destinations you simply can’t miss.

Northern Vietnam

1. Hanoi – The Timeless Capital

Your adventure begins in Hanoi, a city where ancient temples sit beside French-inspired boulevards, and every street whispers a piece of history. Start your morning at Ba Dinh Square to pay respects at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, then wander through the Old Quarter’s 36 historic streets. As night falls, Hoan Kiem Lake shimmers magically under the city lights.
Strolling through Hanoi on a sunny day, you’ll meet street vendors carrying simple but heartwarming treats — an iconic sight that instantly makes you feel the soul of Vietnam.

2. Ninh Binh – The Land of Tranquil Beauty

Just a two-hour drive from Hanoi, Ninh Binh has earned its place among Asia’s friendliest destinations. Sail through the majestic waterways of Trang An, marvel at the limestone mountains of Tam Coc, visit ancient pagodas like Bai Dinh and Bich Dong, or explore the historical capital of Hoa Lu.

Ninh Binh is also deeply rooted in rural Vietnamese charm: golden rice fields, ancient banyan trees, village wells, and peaceful countryside scenes that feel like a step back in time.

3. Cat Cat Village – Sapa’s Mountain Gem

Escape the rush of city life and immerse yourself in the refreshing mountain air of Sapa. Cat Cat Village welcomes you with vast rice terraces, gentle rhythms of ethnic minority life, and hearty local dishes. Waking up here, surrounded by misty peaks, feels like stepping into a dream you won’t want to leave.

4. Ha Giang – Where Earth Meets the Sky

Ha Giang doesn’t dazzle with luxury — instead, it captivates with raw, untouched beauty. From rugged mountain roads to early-morning fog drifting across the valleys, every moment feels poetic.

Visit iconic spots like Lung Cu Flag Tower, Quan Ba Twin Mountains, and the emerald Nho Que River. The smiles of local children and the wildflowers blooming along winding passes will stay with you long after you leave.

5. Ha Long Bay – A Natural Wonder

Ha Long Bay is a must-visit on any Vietnam itinerary. Sail through a maze of limestone karsts, explore ancient caves, and feast on fresh seafood as your boat glides across turquoise waters. It’s not just sightseeing — it’s stepping into a living painting.

6. Cao Bang – Majestic and Untamed

Cao Bang is a rising star for nature lovers! Try local specialties like roasted duck, black jelly noodles, chestnuts, and honeycomb cake.
Don’t miss:

• Ban Gioc Waterfall – one of Southeast Asia’s most magnificent waterfalls
• Ma Phuc Pass – a scenic, twisting mountain road
• Thang Hen Lake – glowing with jade-green water
• Pac Bo Historical Site – rich with cultural and historical value

7. Moc Chau – A Peaceful Highland Escape

Moc Chau is like a gentle, graceful muse — quiet, refreshing, and endlessly charming. With its cool air, tea plantations, and flower fields, it’s the perfect getaway for travelers seeking peace and a deeper appreciation of life’s simple moments.

Central Vietnam

8. Hue – The Ancient Imperial City

A trip to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without experiencing dreamy, nostalgic Hue. This historic capital holds centuries of culture and architecture within its serene landscapes.

Must-visit spots include the Imperial Citadel, Minh Mang and Tu Duc Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Perfume River. Time seems to slow down in Hue, inviting you to savor every moment.

9. Da Nang – Vietnam’s Most Livable City

Friendly locals, clean streets, and a vibrant atmosphere make Da Nang beloved by travelers. Here you’ll find everything: mountains, beaches, forests, and a diverse local culture.

Explore Ba Na Hills, relax at My Khe Beach, or visit the sacred Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula. Da Nang welcomes you like family — warm, genuine, and unforgettable.

10. Hoi An – Lanterns, Heritage, and Romance

With lantern-lit streets, ancient houses, tailor shops, and peaceful riversides, Hoi An feels like a postcard brought to life. Its architecture blends Eastern and Western influences, creating a uniquely enchanting atmosphere. The best time to visit? February to April, when the weather is calm and cool.

11. Nha Trang – The Jewel of the East Sea

Named one of the world’s most beautiful bays, Nha Trang offers white sand beaches, clear waters, offshore islands, and a lively seaside cityscape. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with ancient temples, this coastal paradise is perfect for sun-seekers and ocean lovers.

12. Quang Binh – A Kingdom of Caves

Home to some of the world’s most extraordinary cave systems, Quang Binh is an adventurer’s dream. Explore colossal caverns, pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests — a true masterpiece of nature waiting to be discovered.

13. Phu Yen – The Hidden Gem of the Central Coast

Still wonderfully untouched, Phu Yen offers pristine beaches, rolling mountains, and a wealth of natural treasures. Visit Ganh Da Dia, Bai Xep, Mui Dien, Vung Ro Bay, and savor delicious dishes like tuna stew, chicken rice, and the famous “one-sun” dried beef.

14. Mui Ne – Red Sand Dunes and Blue Seas

A unique blend of desert-like dunes and sparkling coastlines makes Mui Ne unforgettable. Every season brings its own charm, but from April to August the weather is at its finest — perfect for swimming, kite surfing, or simply soaking up the sun.

15. Da Lat – The City of Eternal Spring

With cool air all year round, Da Lat is a favorite escape from the summer heat. Wander through flower gardens, pine forests, and misty hillsides at Valley of Love, Mong Mo Hill, and Truc Lam Zen Monastery. Evening strolls at Da Lat Night Market add a touch of magic to every visit.

3. Southern Vietnam

16. Ho Chi Minh City – Vibrant and Dynamic

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is bursting with energy! As the South’s economic and cultural hub, it blends modern skyscrapers with French architecture and important historical sites.

Visit Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Cu Chi Tunnels, and explore lively markets and street-food alleys. From luxury dining to humble local bites — Saigon has it all.

17. An Giang – Essence of the Mekong Delta

Just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City, An Giang offers rivers, mountains, floating markets, and a warm countryside atmosphere. Explore Tra Su Cajuput Forest, Cam Mountain, Ba Chua Xu Temple, Bung Binh Thien Lake, and fields of ripened rice stretching endlessly across the horizon.

18. Phu Quoc – The Pearl Island

Phu Quoc is the South’s crown jewel — famous for its crystal-clear beaches, lush nature, and irresistible seafood. Spend your days watching starfish at Rach Vem Fishing Village, exploring Ham Ninh, relaxing on Sao Beach, or taking photos at the iconic Sunset Sanato.

These 18 destinations are just the beginning, but each one offers unforgettable memories — from majestic landscapes to rich history, unique culture, and incredible food. If you ever get the chance, try visiting them all. Vietnam has a magical way of staying in your heart forever.

Ready to turn your Vietnam dream trip into reality?

AOJ proudly offers a wide range of Vietnam tour packages, thoughtfully crafted to help you experience the country’s most beautiful sights without worrying about the details. Whether you’re seeking Vietnam luxury travel with premium accommodations and curated experiences, or craving vibrant cultural and culinary adventures, AOJ is here to accompany you every step of the way.

Book your tour today to unlock exclusive deals and start your journey to the very best Vietnam has to offer!