Ultimate Travel Guide to Vietnam

Vietnam is compelling with its rich history, cultural complexities, staggering natural beauty, and captivating ancient temples. After spending a few weeks in this amazing Country, I’ve compiled this Vietnam travel planner with all the information you require to experience the wonders of this astonishing Country on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. Besides how to plan a trip to Vietnam, this Vietnam Travel Guide include all the best places to visit in Vietnam to assist you in putting together the best Vietnam itinerary. Get ready to discover the wonders while I take you on a journey through Vietnam.

At a Glance

For some, Vietnam is only known for its war activities many moons back. However, besides its rich history, Vietnam boasts bustling cities, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes with golden rice paddies, water deltas, lily fields, and idyllic beaches. Altogether, it is home to the largest Cave in the World, the Son Doong Cave in Quang Binh, Vietnam. Along with its heartwarming people and its healthy, delicious foods, our three-week itinerary in Vietnam was such a memorable experience that I can’t wait to return. Exploring Vietnam is indeed an adventure bucket list experience.

Vietnam Travel Planner

Planning a trip to Vietnam can be a massive challenge, but if you follow my travel advice, you won’t need to feel overwhelmed. The most frequent question people ask me is, Is Vietnam worth visiting? Absolutely! Please read my article and let me know your thoughts.

What to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

How Many days do you need in Vietnam?

How many days in Vietnam is enough? Haha – it depends on how many days you have available. You could stay in Vietnam for months to experience what it offers. If you’re short on time, it all depends on the experiences you want and the places you want to visit. However, I would advise you to read through my post thoroughly to make sure each town is what you want to experience so that you don’t waste any time. FAQ: How many days do you need in Vietnam? I would ask them how much time they have.

Best Ways to Travel Around Vietnam

Many transport options are available to and throughout Vietnam. Please refer to the Vietnam Transport Guide for information on how to get there, including how to get around the country and make travel arrangements.

Rough Budget

Travelling in Vietnam can be affordable or costly, depending on your preferences. If you opt for street food and hostels, you can get by with a daily budget of around $25-30. Therefore, exploring Vietnam on a strict budget is possible.

The Cost of Food in Vietnam

Food prices in Vietnam vary depending on the type of food, location, and dining establishment.

• Basic Street food or local eateries: $1
• Mid-range Restaurant: $3-6
• Upmarket restaurant: $10 and above. 
• Beer in a supermarket: $0.88, and Beer in a bar: $1 – $1.5 
• Nightclubs and hotels: $3.5 – $4
• Wine and other spirits are very costly in Vietnam.

Accommodation

• Budget accommodation in hostels: $5-$10 (dorm) and up to $25 in private rooms.
• Mid-Range hotels: $30 – $45
• Luxury options: anything from $60+ 

Experience Vietnamese Culture and Foods

Thanks to its fertile soil and good climate, Vietnamese food is healthy and super nutritious. Besides being flavourful, it’s affordable, making Vietnam a food lovers paradise. To fully explore and enjoy Vietnamese cuisine, consider booking an authentic food tour during your Vietnam travel itinerary. Learn to cook like a local while tasting the best Vietnamese delicacies. Enhance your experience by booking one of the Vietnamese cooking classes with Cookly.

Northern Vietnam Itinerary

Hanoi Vietnam

Exploring Vietnam’s bustling capital city is a journey filled with rich history, captivating culture, and an array of exciting attractions. As Vietnam’s second-biggest city, Hanoi City should be included in any North Vietnam travel itinerary. Chances are that you’re flying into or out of Hanoi. The capital of Vietnam has overcome the ravages of war and a government that isolates the Country from the outside World.

Despite the noise of blaring horns and the hustle and bustle of trillions of scooters, they patiently let one cross the streets. The city still bears the influence of its past French and Chinese occupiers. However, the resilience of Vietnam’s ambitious and proud people is remarkable as they continue to withstand and overcome difficulties.

Chances are you’ll be flying into Hanoi, The Capital. Check out the post on the Top Attractions and Things to Do in Hanoi for the top attractions and what to do in the bustling city. Transport from Hanoi to SAPA.

Sapa Village Vietnam

The charming Sa Pa is a town in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains of northwestern Vietnam. It should be included in all Vietnam Itineraries and Vietnam Travel Planners. Besides the stunning landscapes with rice paddies, Sapa is known for its fascinating ethnic minority groups and Mount Fansipan.

The Best Things to Do in Sapa

Besides trekking up to climb Mount Fansipan, hiking through the rural villages and enjoying the scenery and mountains. Visit the scenic Cat Cat Village with its beautiful waterfalls. Sapa Vietnam in winter is not always that cold. Fortunately, when we were in Sa Pa in December, we had pleasant weather without wearing a jacket. How to get to Sapa, and Book an overnight Bus to Sa Pa?

Sa Pa town overlooks the terraced rice fields of the Muong Hoa Valley and Phan Xi Păng, known as Mount Fansipan, or the Roof of Indochina, the highest peak on the Indochinese Peninsula. Whatever you do, don’t miss this extraordinary gem nestled in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains. Read further to plan your Sapa Itinerary.

What to do in Sa Pa: recommended Sapa tours.

More Sapa Tourist Attractions

The Ha Giang Loop

One of the most exhilarating adventures starts in Ha Giang town and winds through jungle-clad mountain passes along scenic canyons, rivers and ethnic villages. The iconic 384km scenic route through Northern Vietnam Mountain passes includes scenic gorges with limestone karsts and waterfalls. One of the most frequently asked questions is, Is the Ha Giang Loop dangerous? As the roads twist the entire way through mountain passes, one should not undertake the journey yourself unless you’re an experienced driver. The stunning mountain passes, ethnic villages, and breathtaking landscapes will forever be etched in your memory and promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ha Giang Loop Map Route

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a true hidden gem in the Red River Delta of Northern Vietnam, blessed with surreal landscapes, limestone karsts, ancient pagodas, and the most beautiful Countryside. The UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts making Ninh Binh a place you won’t want to miss. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its surreal landscapes, limestone karsts, and ancient Pagodas, is a gem you do not want to miss. 

Where is Ninh Binh? Ninh Bình is located between the Red and Ma Rivers, south of the Northern Delta. It borders Hòa Bình and Hà Nam to the north and Thanh Hóa to the south and west. It has a very short coastline on the edge of the Gulf of Tonkin. Besides the attractions, exploring the countryside is a fantastic experience.

Trang An Boat tour routes

1. Route 1 is a circular route that takes you to the Trinh Temple, the Dark Cave, Light Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, Tran Temple, Ba Giot Cave, Seo Cave, Son Duong Cave, Khong Palace, Bao Hieu Pagoda, Tran Cave, and Quy Hau Cave. The tour lasts approximately 3-4 hours.
2. The Route 2 tour includes a visit to Lam Cave, Cao Son Temple, Vang Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, Dia Linh Mountain, Suoi Tien Temple, Dai Cave and Hanh Cung Vu Lam (Vu Lam Royal Step-over Place). Some parts of the Skull Island movie were shot on this route—about 2-3 hours long.
3. Route 3 includes a visit to three caves, two temples, and a location from the Kong movie: Skull Island, Trinh Temple, Dot Cave, May (Cloud) Cave, Suoi Tien Temple, Dia Linh Mountain, Dai Cave, and Hanh Cung Vu Lam (Vu Lam Royal Step-over Place), taking approximately three hours. 

The best route for the Trang An boat tour is Route 2. Although Route 2 can be very busy, it offers various sights.

• Check Prices and specials for a Boat Trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Join a unique tour of Ninh Binh: Visit three caves, Hoa Lu and Mua Cave, and Ngo Dong River, which have panoramic countryside views. The tour includes a boat trip, biking to a village, and a Vietnamese lunch.

Other Ninh Binh Attractions

Where to stay in Ninh Binh

What is the best area to stay in, Ninh Binh? Staying in the Countryside just outside town.

• We stayed at Tam Coc Luxury Homestay, Tam Coc Road Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, which is out of town, surrounded by mountains.
• LittleTamCoc Boutique Villa, or for other options, visit Ninh Binh Accommodation options.

My friend Carrie Hampton, who is a travel writer, recently spent time in Mai Chau and Phu Luong. After sharing her wonderful experience with me, I thought I’d share details about these two Vietnam gems.

Mai Chau

The peaceful Mai Chau is a hamlet in a picturesque mountainous valley amongst rice paddies and tropical forests with water streams in Northern Vietnam and an ideal getaway for nature lovers. Formerly known as Muong Mai, tranquil Mai Chau is known for trekking and biking amongst the rice fields and forest-covered mountains. Home to hamlets with friendly ethnic people living in stilt houses, it is about 140 km west of Hanoi and 110 km from Ninh Binh in the Hoa Binh province.

How to get to Mai Chau Vietnam

The scenic route from Hanoi to Mai Chau takes about 4-5 hours through the Thang Long Highway—Xuan Mai National Road 6. You’ll also pass through Luong Son, Hoa Binh, Muon Khen, and the Thung Khe Pass. I recommend stopping at the roadside market and the flag pole for a beautiful view of the Mai Chau Valley before reaching the Tong Dau T-junction.

Best things to do in Mai Chau

• Spend at least a day or two immersing yourself in the culture and experiencing Mai Chau Cuisine.
• Recommended homestays in Lac and Pom Coong’s rural villages offer accommodation in stilt houses in the jungle.
• Explore the valley by cycling around alone or book a cycling tour from Mai Châu Lodge.
• Go kayaking on the Hòa Bình Reservoir.
• Hiking on the winding pathways or take a full-day trekking tour in the neighbouring Pù Luông Nature Reserve.
• For an amazing trip, check out the Mai Chau Pu Luong 3 days 2 nights tour

Phu Luong

I wasn’t aware of the Phu Luong Nature Reserve, which is on my travel Itinerary for March 2025. Wow, Vietnam is such a fantastic Country with unending beauty and experiences. So, I thought I’d have to share it with you. I can’t wait to experience Phu Luong myself in March, and I will keep you updated.

The picturesque Phu Luong forest stretches over 17,662 hectares, with only 1/3 inhabited and the rest a protected tropical jungle. As it is only 40 km from Mai Chau, the Phu Luong Nature Reserve is within easy reach and well worth exploring. Although one can explore Phu Luong independently, consider the Mai Chau Pu Luong 2-3-day tour. You’ll find many stalls along the way where you can buy refreshments and try out the local speciality, cà phê phin, which is Vietnamese coffee.

Ha Long Bay

We boarded our Ha Long Bay cruise boat and admired the stunning views while gliding slowly through the waters of Halong Bay. I couldn’t believe I was there and reminded myself to appreciate every moment. We met other passengers on the deck, drank cocktails, laughed, and had great fun. We passed by one limestone rock after another, each with different shapes and sizes, some with sharp rising pinnacles, and now and then, passing another boat, limestone cliff, or little cove.

Halong Bay is comprised of about 1600 little islets near China’s border. UNESCO recognized its incomparable beauty in 1994 and declared it a World Heritage Site. Is Halong Bay worth visiting? Although it is overrated, we had an unforgettable two-day, one-night experience there.

Best Things to Do in Halong Bay

Halong Bay Overnight Cruises

Cat Ba Island

Best Things to Do on Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island is the largest of the 367 Archipelago islands on the southeastern edge of Lan Ha Bay in northern Vietnam.

Visit the Beaches

Cat Ba Island boasts three beautiful beaches: Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2 and Cat Co 3. Visitors can enjoy water sports activities and relax on the golden sandy beaches with crystal-clear blue water. An incredible natural phenomenon occurs at night when bioluminescent plankton begins to sparkle on the beaches. These marine organisms light up as a defence mechanism against predators, creating a magical and unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to witness it. If beaches are your thing, include Cat Ba Island in your travel planner for Vietnam.

Explore Cat Ba National Park

There are 4 hiking routes in the Cat Ba National Park, with the Vit Hai the longest. For the best experience, join.

From Cat Ba: Hiking through Catba National Park, lunch at Viet Hai fishing village, biking 6km from Village to the wharf, exploring Lan Ha Bay, Kayaking, Swimming, and joining pool party.this Long Trekking Catba National Park, Lan Ha bay full day trip trekking

Take a full-day trip biking and kayaking to Cat Ba, Lan Ha, and Halong Bay. Enjoy a full-day trip to Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Cat Ba. Explore the fishing village, kayaking, swimming, and biking in Cat Ba National Park. All transport and lunch included.

Go Kayaking in Cat Ba, Lan Ha & Ha Long Bay Kayak & Snorkel Boat Tour. For more activities, visit Cat Ba Tours.

Where to Stay in Cat Ba

If you’re looking for Cat Ba accommodations close to the beach and attractions:

• Luxury: Paradise Cat ba Hotel Pool & Sky Bar is ideal.
• Mid: Catba Papillon Garden Bungalows & Resort.
• Budget-friendly: Check out The Secret Garden.
• For other Cat Ba Hotels and options, visit Places to Stay in Cat Ba.

Dong Hoi

The seaside town of Dong Hoi is one of the best-kept secrets on the Vietnamese coast in North Central Vietnam. It clings to the banks of the Nhat Le River, with unspoiled beaches to the north and south. Various transport options are available to get to Dong Hoi.

• How to get to Dong Hoi, Dong Hoi to Phong Nha, or Dong Hoi to Hue, as well as other travel options to Hue and Dong Hoi.

Popular Activities and Attractions in Dong Hoi

Where should I stay in Dong Hoi

Here are your Dong Hoi Accommodation options.

Central Vietnam Itinerary

After you’ve enjoyed your time along the coast, continue heading up Central Vietnam to enjoy the historical towns of Hoi An, Danang, and Hue. Located in central Vietnam, Hue City is the capital of Thua Thien Hue, a coastal province that shares borders with Quang Tri Province to the north, Quang Nam Province, and Da Nang to the south. With Laos to the west and the East Sea to the east. We arrived from Hanoi to Da Nang by overnight train, which was a pleasurable experience, and I recommend you add an overnight train journey to your Travel planner for Vietnam.

Da Nang 

One of central Vietnam’s most renowned cities, Da Nang, is also the fourth largest city in Vietnam. It is especially known for one of the most beautiful beaches, My Khe. Besides Marble Mountain, Da Nang provides easy access to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Altogether, it is close to the ancient capital of Hue and Hoi An. Besides that, it is home to some fascinating bridges, among which is the gorgeous Golden Bridge. Da Nang’s 60km Coastline is also home to the largest seaport in Central Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, the Da Nang Air Base was a primary location for offensive air operations in South Vietnam.

Best Bars in Danang

The City of Da Nang bursts into life at night. After the sun sets, the City comes to life, like in most parts of Vietnam, with streets lined with restaurants and bars, making choosing difficult. Danang Rooftop Bar, Sky36, is the highest rooftop bar in Da Nang and one of the hottest nightclubs in the City, known for extravagant entertainment. Sky36 is a luxurious rooftop bar on the top floor of the Novotel Hotel on bustling Bach Dang Street in the heart of Danang. Located at 36 Bạch Đằng, Thạch Thang, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng 550000, Viëtnam.

Da Nang Beaches

Vietnam is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, and Da Nang is packed with golden beaches along its coastline. Known as the Riviera of the South China Sea, Nha Trang’s coastline boasts an array of eateries and accommodations along its white sandy beaches, which are excellent for sunbathing and swimming. Here are some of the best Beaches in Da Nang:

• The pristine My Khe Beach is well-maintained and without vendors pestering you to buy things. Along with the white sandy beach and clear water, there are plenty of restaurants and bars where one can enjoy fresh seafood. There are loungers and umbrellas for hire for those who like to chill and drench in the fresh ocean air. And if you feel energetic, various water sports activities keep you busy. One can even take up surfing lessons.
• Bac My An Beach is 7 km east of Danang and is a family favourite. It is a small white sandy beach with clear blue water, good for swimming and water activities. Bac My An Beach has some luxury resorts, small hotels, guesthouses and eateries.
• Son Tra Beach lies about 10 km northeast of Da Nang City and is one of the favourite Da Nang Vietnam beaches with excellent marine life. Besides its pristine scenery, immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the sunshine, hiking and watersports.
• Consider including the breathtaking islands of Vietnam in your Vietnam Travel Planner for an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss Danang Unique Bridges

Da Nang City is home to ten bridges that cross the Han River. Each bridge has a unique structure and design. To see these top tourist attractions, visit Exceptional Bridges in the City of Da Nang.

Where to Stay in Danang

The best area to stay in Danang is close to the river between the Han River Bridge and the Dragon Bridge. That is where you’ll find some of the best Danang hotels on the riverfront, North of the Han River Bridge. For other options, visit Best Places to Stay in Da Nang. From Da Nang, it is wise to continue your journey to the ancient town of Hoi An, a unique, charming town.

Hoi An

The ancient town of Hoi An has a timeless charm and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Vietnam’s Central Coast. It is about half an hour’s drive from Da Nang. With its old architecture, cosy yellow-painted shops, markets, water canals and bridges with many colourful lanterns, and hidden gems around every corner, what to do in Hoi An? The best way to experience the ancient town and its beaches is on foot or by bicycle.

How many days, Hoi An? We spent three days here and wish we had more. The distance from Da Nang to Hoi An is about 30 km, and there are several transport options to get there. How to get from Da Nang to Hoi An.

Visit Hoi An Beaches

An Bang

Just 3km North of Hoi An, An Bang Beach is one of Vietnam’s most popular beaches, famous for its beautiful stretch of fine sand. An anchored sandy beach, Cửa Đại is known for its gentle waves with upscale hotels and restaurants serving the freshest seafood. Boats depart daily from Cua Dai pier to the nearby rustic Chàm Islands. With its open-air cocktail bars and vibrant nightlife, An Bang Beach is the ideal place to dance the night away. 

More Tourist Attractions in Hoi An

The Hai Van Pass

Recognized as one of the World’s top ten most beautiful coastal roads, the Hai Van Pass is between the Hue Province and Danang City in central Vietnam. At 500m above sea level, it is also the highest pass in Vietnam, with beautiful views of the Son Tra Peninsula. In the past, it was a critical barrier to any ground that attempted to move between the Country’s northern and central areas and connect the two war-torn towns. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, we missed the experience and beauty of the Hi Van Pass.

To have the best experience on one of the World’s top coastal roads, book a Motorbike Tour with Easy Rider Tours that promises you one of your best experiences ever. Besides an exhilarating experience, beautiful scenery, great food and an experienced driver. For prices and reviews and to secure your place, go to the Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour.

Hai Van Pass: One of the best things to do in Hue is to take a scenic train journey along the coastline through the Hai Van Pass. There are several ways to do this, one being on a Hue Imperial Day trip and the other being with Easy Rider Tour. Whichever you choose, don’t forget to add it to your Hue Itinerary.

Hue City

The coastal city of Hue is located in central Vietnam and is the capital of Thua Thien Hue province. It is rich in history, historic architecture, and heritage sites. Surrounded by a moat, the 19th-century Citadel has picturesque landscapes. Hue is named after the Lily flower and is pronounced ‘Nyguyen’ or ‘NWEEehng’. Either way, I’m like many English speakers who gave up and said, “Ween.”

What to do in Hue

Experience the scenic Hai Van Pass. The Hải Vân Pass is a 21-kilometre-long mountain pass on National Route 1 in Vietnam. It traverses a spur of the larger Annamite Range that juts into the ‘East Sea’ on the border of Đà Nẵng and Thừa Thiên–Huế Province, near Bạch Mã National Park. Citation: (2024, August 21)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H%E1%BA%A3i_V%C3%A2n_Pass

How many days in Hue?

To fully experience the ancient Capital of Hue, I recommend you stay 2-3 days.

The Best time to visit Hue

Although Hue is generally hot and humid, it lies in the climate transition zone between Vietnam’s north and South and is affected by two climate regions and the monsoon regime. Therefore, come prepared for all seasons.

Where to Stay in Hue

Let’s look at your Hue accommodation options. Hue Hotels caters for all budgets. We stayed at the Cherish Hotel, which offers an excellent breakfast and is centrally located within walking distance of everything you need and restaurants. For an exceptional homestay, check out Tâm Homestay or find more options on Places to Stay in Hue.

Other Top Attractions in Hue

Phong Nha

Phong Nha is situated in the Quang Binh Province of Central Vietnam. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the enormous Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is famous for its vast network of caves, the most notable of which is the world’s largest Cave, Son Doong. Unfortunately, I couldn’t visit Phong Nha during my 3 weeks in Vietnam, but it’s on top of my list for March.

The Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, also known as Vườn quốc gia Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the North Central Coast of Vietnam. The park borders the Hin Namno National Park in Laos to the west and is 42 km east of the South China Sea border. Created to protect one of the world’s two largest karst regions, with 300 caves and grottoes, as well as the ecosystem of the Annamite Range in Vietnam. The Annamite Mountain range, or Dãy (núi) Trường Sơ, is a significant eastern Indochina Mountain range of about 1,100 km.

Southern Vietnam Itinerary

The Southern part of Vietnam is home to the lively Ho Chi Minh City, previously Saigon. Everyone visiting Vietnam should spend a few days in the lively city of Saigon. Check out Vietnam’s Best Pristine Islands and the spectacular Con Dao Archipelago in Vietnam, which is worth spending a few days and adding to your Southern Vietnam Travel Planner.

Nha Trang

The lively coastal city of Nha Trang in southern Vietnam boasts more days of sunshine per year than any other region of the Country. With its laid-back atmosphere, Nha Trang is famous for its offshore islands, pristine beaches, turquoise bays, and diving sites. Beach bars serving colourful cocktails and seafood are lined up along the coastline.

Na Trang Beaches

Nhu Tien Beach

About 10 km from the centre of Na Trang lies Nhu Tien Beach, home to the popular Diamond Bay Condotel. With swaying palms and shallow water, this condotel is very popular among families.

Jungle Beach

The laid-back Jungle Beach in the verdant Ninh Phuoc village is about 60 km north of Na Trang. Its lush vegetation, wild monkeys, douc langurs, and birdlife make it a favourite among people looking for a secluded getaway. Besides trekking in the jungle, plenty of beach activities include fishing, snorkelling, and surfing.

Phu Nha Trang

Na Trang boasts the famous Phu Nha Trang beach, a 6 km-long golden sandy beach with Safe swimming areas. From there, one can also venture off on boat trips to nearby islands with excellent snorkelling and other beaches around Ninh Van Bay. Don’t miss the chance to wine and dine at the popular Sailing Club and Louisiane Brewhouse in the city of Nha Trang.

Doc Let Beach

The 18 km chalk-white sandy beach of Doc Let, with its shallow turquoise waters, ranks amongst the best beaches in the Country. Unfortunately, developers have already discovered this gem, causing a rise in tourism. It is located in the Khanh province in Ninh Hoa town, only 49 km north of Nha Trang city.

Vinh Hy Bay

Vinh Hy is a scenic fishing Village with a natural harbour between Phan Rang and Nha Trang. It is located in the Vinh Hai district in Ninh Thuan Province in Vietnam. Nui Chua National Park surrounds it on three sides.

Đà Lạt Itinerary

The capital of Lâm Đồng Province in the Southern Vietnam Highlands, Da Lat, is centred around a lake, surrounded by pine-covered hills, scenic landscapes, evergreen forests, picturesque waterfalls, and vibrant flowers. Dalat is situated between Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang.

Best things to do in DaLat

• The Xuan Huong Lake in the heart of Dalat is a beautiful place to wander and enjoy the serene surroundings. Swan Paddle Boats are available for rides on the lake. The artificial lake extends to Dalat Flower Park and Cu Hill, with several restaurants where you can enjoy the scenery.
• The Crazy House is one of the World’s most unique, although bizarre, architectural structures. It was designed to resemble an enormous tree, with sculptured design elements throughout.
• Datanla Waterfalls: Although one of the very touristy Dalat attractions, the Datanla Waterfall is worth a visit. Take a fun ride on an alpine coaster that twists through the forest down to the base of two Waterfalls. After that, hike down the short hiking trail to the bottom of the third waterfall, where you’ll have the best view of the waterfall (wear sturdy shoes and remember sunscreen).
• Stairway to Heaven is a Dalat sightseeing attraction located on Happy Farm, only 7km outside Dalat. I’ve heard that the view from the top is stunning, and one can capture breathtaking pictures against the blue sky.
• Dalat Night Market is the place to buy crafts, clothes and delicious food at reasonable prices.
• The Maze Bar in Dalat is fascinating and centrally located. It was designed by the same architect as the “Crazy House,” with tiny alleys and secret passages everywhere. With its colourful and bizarre decor, there is a lovely terrace where you can relax on sofas while you enjoy a drink.
• Vietnam’s largest Zen monastery, The Truc Lam Monastery, is in a forest outside town.

Things to do & Places to Visit in Dalat

Where to Stay in Da Lat

Accommodation options and Hotels in Dalat.

• Is Dalat worth visiting? I haven’t been to Dalat myself, but many travellers recommend visiting Dalat.
• How many days for Dalat? Recommend 3 days for Dalat Vietnam Travel Planner.

Ho Chi Minh City

What to Do in Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a vibrant city where the energy never stops. It is my favourite of the big cities in Vietnam. The traffic is hectic, with trillions of motorbikes being the primary means of transport for families in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City is undoubtedly the city you should add to your Vietnam travel planner.

best things to add to your Ho Chi Minh Itinerary

best bars in Saigon

One gets overwhelmed in Saigon with the many Clubs or bars in Ho Chi Minh City, where one can have a new experience every day. One thing you should not miss is a visit to a rooftop bar in Ho Chi Minh City.

Here are a few options. Let me know which one you visited and what your experience was like.

Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

The Best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Downtown in Saigon’s District 1 is centrally located near Saigon attractions, with the best nightlife.

I recommend the mid-range Elios Hotel, known as one of the best Hotels in Saigon. Besides its excellent location at 233 Pham Ngu Lao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Eliost rooftop restaurant offer an excellent view over the City. Some rooms overlook the park, and their breakfast offers quite a selection. We enjoyed our stay at Elios. For budget accommodation or luxury hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, see other options on booking.com.

Mũi Né itinerary

What to do in Mui Ne

The beach resort of Mũi Né is a long, palm-lined stretch of sand in Southeast Vietnam about 200 km from Saigon. It is a top holiday destination and great for watersports, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing due to the steady wind conditions during the dry season. The 198 km journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne promises an enchanting journey. Add the Mui Ne Vietnam beach to your Vietnam Travel Planner Mui Ne itinerary.

Watch the sunrise at the White Sand Dunes and experience sandboarding on the Red Mui Ne Sand Dunes. Visit a fishing village and walk through the Fairy Stream-coloured sands. Check out this amazing Mui Ne Sand Dunes Jeep Tour and other Mui Ne tours.

Other Top Attractions in Mui Ne

Best Places to Stay in Mui Ne

The serene fishing village of Mui Ne, located in the Binh Thuan Province, has transformed over the years and is now a popular coastal destination in Vietnam. To find out where to stay in Mui Ne, see Mui Ne Hotels, Hotels, Budget—and various other Mui Ne accommodations.

Top Beaches in Vietnam

Phú Quốc Beaches

• Phú Quốc Island is a Vietnamese island off the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand. It is known for its palm-lined white-sand beaches. Over half of the island is part of Phú Quốc National Park, which has a dense tropical jungle. Besides the beautiful beaches, the island boasts hiking trails, wildlife, and markets selling crafts and produce in Duong Dong town.

Na Trang Beaches

• Jungle Beach, Nhu Tien Beach, Doc Let Beach, and Bai Dai Beach.

Thanh Hoa Beaches

About 150 kilometres south of Hanoi lies Thanh Hoa, known for its serene sandy beaches, with clear blue waters and alluring sunsets. One can travel from Hanoi to Thanh Hoa by bus, car, or train.

• Sam Son Beach is one of the favourite beaches in Vietnam, 16 km from Thanh Hoa City.
• Hai Tien Beach and Hai Hoa Beach,
• Tien Trang Beach.

Other Vietnam Beaches

• Thien Cam Beach is a 2-kilometre pristine beach bound by Thien Cam Mountain and only 20 kilometres from Ha Tinh City in central Vietnam. Located in the Ha Tinh Province, Thien Cam is known for its untouched beaches and the Thien Cam Mountain and Dau Voi Mountain.
• Bai Lu Beach, with its crystal clear blue water and white sandy beach, is surrounded by mountains. It is located 270km from Hanoi and only 25 km from Vinh City.
• Nghe An Beach in North Central Vietnam is famous for its white sandy beach and beautiful natural scenery. Located about 291 kilometres south of Hanoi, it is one of the famous Central Vietnam beaches and is about two hours from HCMC.
• Cua Lo Beach in Vietnam is a relaxed white sandy beach with sparkling blue waters. The 10 km long beach is lined with coconut trees. Tourists travel by car, train, or plane from Hanoi to Vinh City and Cua Lo Beach. 

Get Adventurous and Book a Trip

While you’re busy with your Vietnam Travel Planner, look into the following Vietnam and Cambodia Trip: On this 17-day Adventurous trip, you’ll experience many natural wonders and fascinating cultures. It combines guided excursions with free time to explore the beaches and historical ruins and admire stunning landscapes. Altogether, Cruise the Mekong Delta overnight on a traditional boat in Halong Bay.

Travel to Cambodia to experience the beautiful Angkor Wat and visit the Killing Fields. Although many activities are included, there is still plenty of time to explore and create the ultimate adventure. Watch the sunrise over the Angkor temple complex with a guided tour. Opt to visit the Tonlé Sap floating village and the Angkor National Museum. Enjoy a traditional Khmer meal.

Other Insanely affordable tours and other Vietnam Family Adventures with GAdventures.

Why not add a few days in Cambodia? Here are the Best ways to travel around Vietnam, including how to travel from Vietnam to Cambodia.

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