Vietnam is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique cuisine. From the majestic mountains in the North, the crystal-blue beaches in Central Vietnam, to the fertile orchards in the South—each region has its own distinctive charm.

If you are looking for a list of famous tourist destinations in Vietnam to plan your upcoming trip, here are 40 suggestions worth exploring at least once in your lifetime.

Northern Vietnam – Majestic and Ancient Beauty

1. Hanoi

The thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam, famous for its Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, and countless street foods such as pho, bun cha, and steamed rice rolls.

2. Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh)

A UNESCO World Natural Wonder, known for thousands of limestone islands rising dramatically from emerald waters. Visitors can enjoy cruising, kayaking, and fresh seafood.

3. Sa Pa (Lao Cai)

A misty highland region with terraced rice fields, Fansipan Peak—the “Roof of Indochina”—and colorful ethnic markets.

4. Trang An – Tam Coc – Bich Dong (Ninh Binh)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its river caves and limestone mountains, often called “Ha Long Bay on land.”

5. Moc Chau (Son La)

A paradise of green tea hills, plum blossoms, white mustard flowers, and cool year-round weather.

6. Ba Be Lake (Bac Kan)

One of Vietnam’s largest freshwater lakes, surrounded by mountains and pristine forests.

7. Cao Bang

Famous for Ban Gioc Waterfall—one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world—and the majestic Nguom Ngao Cave.

8. Mai Chau (Hoa Binh)

A peaceful Thai ethnic village where visitors can stay in homestays and enjoy bamboo rice and traditional rice wine.

9. Co To Island (Quang Ninh)

Crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and fresh air—an ideal summer escape.

10. Dong Van – Meo Vac (Ha Giang)

A dramatic rocky plateau with the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass and ethnic minority villages.

Central Vietnam – Heritage and Blue Seas

11. Hue

The former imperial capital, home to royal citadels, Nguyen Dynasty tombs, the Perfume River, and royal cuisine.

12. Da Nang

Vietnam’s most livable city, featuring My Khe Beach, Ba Na Hills, Dragon Bridge, and vibrant festivals.

13. Hoi An (Quang Nam)

A lantern-lit ancient town famous for Cao Lau, Mi Quang, and centuries-old architecture.

14. Quy Nhon (Binh Dinh)

An emerging beach paradise with Eo Gio cliffs, Ky Co Beach, and fresh seafood specialties.

15. Phu Yen

Known as “yellow flowers on green grass,” featuring Ganh Da Dia and Mui Dien—the first place to see sunrise on Vietnam’s mainland.

16. Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa)

A coastal paradise with long beaches, VinWonders, coral diving, and mud baths.

17. Da Lat (Lam Dong)

The City of Eternal Spring, known for cool weather, Xuan Huong Lake, Love Valley, and colorful flower gardens.

18. Phong Nha – Ke Bang (Quang Binh)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the world’s largest cave systems, including Son Doong Cave.

19. Ly Son (Quang Ngai)

A garlic island with blue seas and unique volcanic rock formations.

20. Binh Thuan

Famous for Mui Ne sand dunes, long beaches, and water sports like kite surfing.

Southern Vietnam – Vibrant and Prosperous

21. Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam’s largest economic hub, vibrant day and night with diverse cuisine from all regions.

22. Vung Tau (Ba Ria – Vung Tau)

A beach city near Saigon, known for fresh seafood, the lighthouse, and Christ the King statue.

23. Phu Quoc (Kien Giang)

The Pearl Island with pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and abundant seafood.

24. Can Tho

Famous for Cai Rang Floating Market, river cruises, and lush fruit orchards.

25. Chau Doc (An Giang)

A spiritual destination with Ba Chua Xu Temple, Tra Su Cajuput Forest, and Sam Mountain.

26. Bac Lieu

Known for Bac Lieu Prince House, wind farms, and Southern folk music.

27. Ca Mau

Vietnam’s southernmost point, home to Mui Ca Mau and the untouched U Minh Ha Forest.

28. Sa Dec (Dong Thap)

A colorful flower village with ancient temples and Mekong Delta cuisine.

29. Ha Tien (Kien Giang)

A scenic destination of mountains, caves, and beautiful coastal landscapes.

30. Tra Vinh

Rich Khmer culture with Ang Pagoda and Ba Om Pond.

Other Highlights

31. Pu Luong (Thanh Hoa)

Terraced rice fields and eco-homestays surrounded by nature.

32. Tam Dao (Vinh Phuc)

A misty mountain town with cool weather and relaxing resorts.

33. Nui Coc Lake (Thai Nguyen)

An ecological tourist site linked to the legend of Cong and Coc.

34. Bac Ha (Lao Cai)

A colorful ethnic market famous for corn wine and white horses.

35. Dien Bien Phu (Dien Bien)

A historic battlefield marking Vietnam’s famous 1954 victory.

36. Khe Sanh (Quang Tri)

A historical war site once known as a major military base.

37. Kon Tum

Famous for its wooden church, Bana villages, and cool climate.

38. Pleiku (Gia Lai)

Home to T’Nung Lake and Phu Cuong Waterfall.

39. Buon Ma Thuot (Dak Lak)

Vietnam’s coffee capital, known for Dray Nur Waterfall and Central Highlands culture.

40. Ninh Thuan

Famous for vineyards, Vinh Hy Bay, and unique Cham towers.

Conclusion

Vietnam is not only rich in beautiful landscapes but also in culture, history, and cuisine. Whether you love beaches, mountains, or vibrant cities, this list of 40 destinations has something that will captivate you. Pack your bags and start exploring the full beauty of this incredible country!