Vietnam offers a diverse travel experience, from ancient towns and mountain retreats to lively cities and island escapes. Here are the top 10 most visited cities in Vietnam that show the country’s beauty, heritage, and hospitality.
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a bustling mix of tradition and modernity. Visitors explore the Old Quarter’s maze-like streets, Hoan Kiem Lake, and historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It’s a city full of charm, motorbikes, and authentic street food experiences.
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest metropolis and economic powerhouse. Tourists enjoy the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, and rooftop views in District 1. It’s lively, energetic, and offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s modern pulse.
Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient town, lantern-lit nights, and riverside charm. Visitors love the preserved architecture, tailor shops, and local markets. It’s one of Vietnam’s most picturesque and peaceful destinations.
Da Nang is a fast-developing coastal city known for its clean beaches and iconic Dragon Bridge. It’s a great base for exploring the Marble Mountains and nearby Hoi An. Modern, breezy, and scenic, it’s a favorite among beachgoers and digital nomads.
Hue was Vietnam’s imperial capital and is filled with ancient palaces, pagodas, and tombs. Tourists visit the Citadel, Perfume River, and royal tombs like Khai Dinh’s. It’s a spiritual and historical journey through Vietnam’s royal past.
Nha Trang is Vietnam’s beach resort capital. Known for white sand beaches, diving spots, and nightlife, it’s ideal for relaxation and water fun. The VinWonders amusement park adds to its family appeal.
Sapa is a mountain town famous for terraced rice fields and ethnic minority culture. Travelers trek through valleys, stay in homestays, and photograph jaw-dropping scenery. It’s an adventure and culture-packed destination in northern Vietnam.
Ha Long City is the gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO-listed site of limestone karsts and emerald waters. Cruises from here offer breathtaking views and water activities like kayaking and cave exploration.
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island, known for its beaches, snorkeling, and laid-back vibes. Visitors enjoy beach resorts, fish sauce factories, and island hopping tours. It’s a tropical paradise with increasing tourist appeal.
Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta, famous for its floating markets and riverside life. Cai Rang Floating Market is a top attraction, offering an authentic taste of southern Vietnamese culture.
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam. However, citizens of certain countries such as Japan, South Korea, and some European nations may enjoy visa-free access for short stays (usually 15 days). Vietnam also offers an e-visa system for over 80 nationalities, which is easy to apply for online.
Tip: Always check the official Vietnam e-Visa portal or your nearest Vietnamese embassy for the latest requirements.
Vietnam has three distinct climate zones:
North (Hanoi, Sapa): Best from October to April
Central (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang): Best from February to August
South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): Warm year-round, but dry season is December to April
So, there’s always a good time to visit somewhere in Vietnam.
Yes, Vietnam is generally very safe for travelers. Petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in busy areas, but violent crime is rare. Just use common sense:
Keep an eye on your belongings
Avoid poorly lit areas late at night
Be cautious when crossing streets—traffic can be chaotic
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Notes come in denominations from 1,000 to 500,000 VND.
1 USD = roughly 24,000 VND (as of 2025). That 500,000 VND bill in your hand? It’s about 20 bucks.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and big stores—especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. But always carry some cash for markets, street food, and local transport.
English is spoken at most tourist spots, hotels, and restaurants in major cities. However, in rural areas or smaller towns, it’s good to learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases like:
Xin chào = Hello
Cảm ơn = Thank you
Bao nhiêu tiền? = How much?
Vietnamese cuisine is world-famous. Don’t leave without trying:
Phở (noodle soup)
Bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich)
Gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls)
Cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk)
Tip: Street food is safe and delicious—just look for places with a line of locals.
Domestic flights: Great for covering long distances (e.g., Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City)
Trains: Scenic but slow—popular for routes like Hue to Da Nang
Buses & Minivans: Affordable, frequent, and connect most cities
Motorbike: Common among adventurous travelers but only recommended if you’re experienced
Ride-hailing apps: Use Grab for taxis and food delivery—it’s easy and reliable
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated—especially in restaurants, for hotel staff, or private tour guides. A tip of 5–10% is more than enough in most cases.
Light, breathable clothes
A good rain jacket (especially during monsoon season)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
Power adapter (Type A, C, or F – 220V)
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