Vietnam is definitely a must-visit destination when travelling around Asia. This nation is simply rich with gorgeous sights, delicious food, culture and history–not to mention wonderful people! This Southeast Asia must-visit nation is also one of the cheapest places for tourists to visit around Asia.
So if you’re planning to head over to Vietnam anytime soon make sure to not miss out on visiting their top tourist attractions! To help you come out with a great Vietnam itinerary, below is a list of places you should definitely visit when in Vietnam!
1 – Hanoi
Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, entices tourists with a lively environment that blends ancient buildings, a thriving arts and culture scene, and busy streets. Hoan Kiem Lake is a calm haven in the middle of the city where people congregate for leisurely walks and cultural activities. Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with its narrow alleyways and busy marketplaces, provides an insight into the city’s colourful history, while the Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, is evidence of Vietnam’s intellectual legacy.
The enormous Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where tourists pay their homage to the beloved leader of Vietnam’s independence movement, is another noteworthy site. Among many other things, these well-known sites capture the spirit of Hanoi, a city whose tradition, history, and modernity come together to provide visitors with an experience they won’t soon forget.
2 – Hoi An
Travellers are drawn to the enchanted historic town of Hoi An by its rich cultural legacy and eternal appeal! This is situated along the scenic banks of the Thu Bon River in central Vietnam. Hoi An is well-known for its finely maintained architecture, which consists of sophisticated wooden structures with elaborate carvings and tiled roofs.
You can enjoy Hoi An’s charming culture on a budget by staying in affordable accommodation choices that are well situated close to the town’s historic centre. Numerous hostels and guesthouses provide tidy, cosy rooms with the bare minimum of utilities, all at a great price.
Another thing to look forward to when visiting Hoi An is the mouthwatering flavours and scents of its cuisine! Some to try out are the Mi Quang, Cao Lầu and the ever-so-popular Bánh Mì Hội An.
Moreover, a trip to Hoi An wouldn’t be complete without engaging in some shopping therapy. Explore the colourful marketplaces and upscale stores along the busy streets of Hoi An. Here, artists display their skills via hand-painted ceramics, delicate lanterns, and beautifully woven fabrics, all of which are examples of Hoi An’s rich artisanal history.
3 – Halong Bay
Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s most prized jewels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enthrals with its spectacular beauty and enchanted sceneries. This breathtaking harbour, which is tucked away along the Gulf of Tonkin in northern Vietnam, is home to hundreds of limestone karsts and islands that rise majestically from the beautiful emerald seas below. The scene is unreal, with every island and karst covered in lush foliage.
Discover secret coves, isolated beaches, and towering limestone pillars formed by nature over millions of years while taking captivating trips through the maze-like rivers. Kayaking excursions offer an opportunity for those with a spirit of adventure to explore the mysterious realm of Halong Bay. Through intricate caverns and limestone arches studded with stalactites and stalagmites, kayakers may dig further into this mythical area.
4 – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City, originally known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and offers an enthralling blend of modern vibes and a rich cultural legacy. This vibrant city, woven together by a multitude of customs and cultures, is a kaleidoscope of experiences that capture the spirit of Vietnam for tourists.
Ho Chi Minh City’s historic heritage is centrally located, as seen by the city’s moving memorials and colonial-era structures. The War Remnants Museum is a sombre monument to the nation’s turbulent past, providing an emotive depiction of the Vietnam War via its engaging displays and artifacts.
The famous Notre Dame Cathedral, which is close by and has twin bell towers and neo-Romanesque architecture, is a symbol of the city’s French colonial past. Meanwhile, the ancient Ben Thanh Market is a hive of activity that provides a sensory extravaganza of sights, sounds, and smells among its winding lanes and busy stalls.