Lonely Planet's 10 must-visit destinations in Vietnam have most bases covered
Lonely Planet describes Vietnam as a destination offering a wide variety of rich experiences.
The travel guide recently listed 10 top-rated spots across the country, ranging from cities and tropical islands to beaches and national parks.
Hanoi: The ideal gateway for first-time visitors
Every journey needs a starting point, and for first-time visitors to Vietnam, the capital city of Hanoi is the perfect place to begin.
Beyond its accessible infrastructure, budget-friendly accommodations, world-class cuisine, and rich historical heritage, Hanoi serves as the gateway to iconic destinations such as Ha Long Bay and the renowned trekking routes of the northwest.
The city offers an array of attractions and engaging activities.
Whatever your itinerary looks like, sampling Hanoi's street food is a must.
Insider tip: Grab a draught beer (bia hoi) at Ta Hien Street and explore the vibrant food stalls tucked along this famous alley.
Phong Nha: hub for adventure
As the world's largest cave, Son Doong is an awe-inspiring wonder.
However, visitor slots are strictly limited and often booked years in advance.
Beyond Son Doong, Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park has countless other caverns waiting to be explored, where thrill-seekers can climb, squeeze through narrow passages, navigate underground rivers by boat, and rappel on ropes.
Insider tip: Caves like Tu Lan, Phong Nha, Paradise (Thien Duong), and En offer more accessible price points.
On these treks, campers pitch their tents on underground sandbars directly beneath massive sinkholes, illuminated by natural beams of sunlight streaming through the cavern openings.
Hue: historic destination
As the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam's last royal dynasty, Hue is steeped in imperial history despite suffering heavy damage due to wartime airstrikes.
Though many original structures were destroyed, the grand legacy of the ancient capital endures within the Imperial Citadel and the Purple Forbidden City (Tu Cam Thanh).
Just beyond the city center lie the royal tombs of Vietnam's former emperors, nestled amidst lush greenery along the Huong river.
Another jewel of Hue's heritage is its royal cuisine, widely celebrated as the pinnacle of Vietnamese gastronomy.
Don't miss out on trying a steaming bowl of spicy beef noodle soup bun bo Hue or a crispy savory pancake banh khoai.
Insider tip: To beat the crowds at the royal tombs, rent a motorbike to explore at your own pace. And be sure to save time for a visit to the renowned Thien Mu pagoda.
Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay: ideal for boat cruises
Beyond the world-famous Ha Long Bay, visitors can explore the equally stunning Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay aboard traditional wooden junk boats.
You can also kayak through towering limestone karsts, hike forest trails on Cat Ba island, or unwind on the sandy shores of Co To island.
The region is also packed with beaches and exceptional seafood restaurants.
Insider tip: If you visit Cat Ba island, take time to trek the scenic trails of Cat Ba National Park with a local guide to fully appreciate its untouched nature.
Phu Quoc: haven for relaxation and family getaways
Fringed by emerald-green waters and soft, powdery sands, Phu Quoc is the perfect spot to slow down and sip a cocktail as the sun sets.
Long popular with both domestic and international travelers, the island offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions, including the VinWonders theme park and Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park.
For a change of scenery, visitors can leave the bustling beach crowds behind to explore the dense forests of the island.
Insider tip: Numerous airlines operate direct flights to Phu Quoc. Besides, foreign travelers can take advantage of a visa-free policy for stays of up to 30 days.
Hoi An: step back in time
Once one of Asia’s important trading ports, attracting merchants from far-off lands such as Japan, Spain, and North America, Hoi An is a charming old town characterized by tightly packed shophouses, a centuries-old covered bridge, Chinese assembly halls, Buddhist pagodas, and Confucian temples.
History, however, is only part of Hoi An's allure.
Many travelers extend their stays for days to attend hands-on cooking classes with local chefs, mastering dishes like "white rose" dumplings (banh bao banh vac) and fresh spring rolls.
Ha Giang: authentic mountain experience
If you want to explore the countryside without jostling through heavy tourist crowds, Ha Giang is the ideal destination.
Travelers can stay in village homestays, trek to ethnic minority hamlets, wander through terraced rice fields between limestone peaks, or ride motorbikes along thrilling mountain passes.
The winding mountain roads connecting Ha Giang, Dong Van, and Meo Vac offer endless photo opportunities at every turn.
Insider tip: If you are a confident and experienced rider, rent a motorbike in Ha Giang City to conquer the highlands on your own (a valid driver's license is required).
Alternatively, you can book a tour or hire a local guide who doubles as an "easy rider" driver.
Ho Chi Minh City: experience vibrant nightlife
As Vietnam’s largest metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with energy, and it becomes even more attractive after dark.
At night, sidewalks transform into pop-up food hubs filled with street food stalls and roadside bars.
Traces of a city that once stood on the front lines during wartime still remain throughout Ho Chi Minh City.
Visitors can delve into history at places like the War Remnants Museum.
Outside, take time to admire the French colonial-era architecture before unwinding at a local cafe with a traditional Vietnamese filter-brewed coffee (ca phe phin).
Insider tip: To take a break from the city's hustle and bustle, take a day trip to nearby Tay Ninh. The Cao Dai Holy See is a fascinating spot to learn about Caodaism.
Central Vietnam beaches: ultimate summer escape
The endless sandy stretches along the central coastline, such as at Da Nang and Nha Trang, are popular summer hotspots.
If you prefer to steer clear of high-energy tourist hubs, head to Mui Ne or Doc Let beach, where life moves at a gentler pace and which offer rich culinary experiences.
Insider tip: Travelers seeking tranquility should consider Thuan An beach. This coastal strip has sandy paths extending along a spit of land surrounded by lagoons.
Ba Be lake: marvel at lakes and surrounding forests
Vietnam has more than 30 national parks for conserving diverse ecosystems ranging from swamps to mountain forests.
While some have turned into major tourist hubs, Ba Be National Park remains unspoiled.
Here, visitors can cruise by boat or kayak across mirror-like waters. Along your journey, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including macaques, langurs, rare Asian black bears, pangolins, and crested serpent eagles.
Insider tip: Staying at local homestays allows travelers to embrace a peaceful escape from crowded tourist routes. Consider booking a family-run guesthouse in Pac Ngoi village.
Highlighted Experiences You Might Also Like
What you'll receive
Tailor-Made Journey Design
Every journey is individually crafted around your passions, pace and preferences, with seamless service, privileged access and thoughtful attention to every detail.
Learn more
20+ Years of Deep Local Expertise
Over two decades of destination expertise, trusted relationships and flawless execution ensure access, flexibility, privacy and confidence throughout every journey.
Responsible Luxury
Luxury travel should leave a positive legacy - supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage and protecting the natural environment for generations to come.
See more
Concierge-Level Journey Management
Our services include VIP airport handling, helicopter, yacht, and jet ski logistics, private charters, agile itinerary management, exceptional customization for Kosher, Halal, Vegan, and Wellness dining requirements.
Experience Now
