Visiting Vietnam For The First Time? 5 Top Destinations You Must Explore In ‘the Land Of The Blue Dragons’

5 Best Places to Visit In Vietnam

1. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is known for its charming blend of French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and a lively atmosphere. Wander through the Old Quarter, where you’ll find narrow streets filled with markets, street food vendors, and small shops. Don’t forget to visit iconic landmarks like the Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, the Hanoi Opera House, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, as per the Vietnam Tourism Portal.

2. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

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No trip to Vietnam would be complete without a visit to Ha Long Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald-green waters. You can explore the bay by taking a boat cruise, fishing, kayaking, or even spending a night on a traditional junk boat. Vietnam Tourism portal states, “Ha Long Bay’s climate can be cool with clear skies from September to November. Mist drifts in from December to March making the bay look all the more mysterious. April and May offer sunshine and a refreshing breeze, while the monsoon season can make visits unpredictable from June to August.” It’s a perfect place for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.

3. Sapa, Vietnam

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For those who love hiking and scenic landscapes, Sapa is a must-see. Located in the northern part of Vietnam, this mountain town is known for its cool climate and stunning terraced rice fields. Some of the highlights of visiting Sapa are as per the Vietnam Tourism portal, “Sapa offers some of Vietnam's best trekking, and some villages such as Cat Cat and Ta Phin can be seen without a guide. Wander the pagoda complex before climbing the last few steps to the summit. The views from the ‘Roof of Indochina’ are unmatched. Every Sunday the Bac Ha market bursts into life, as hundreds of traders from the Dzao, Han, Xa Fang, Tay, and Thai tribes descend on the market, decked out in traditional garb.” The views of the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range - the highest mountain range in Vietnam, are absolutely spectacular, and the area is home to several minority groups, making it a fascinating cultural experience.

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4. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

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Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic hub of Vietnam and a bustling metropolis full of energy and excitement. Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City include, “Walk down Đồng Khởi street to acquaint yourself with the Notre Dame Cathedral, the city's Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House. The Chinese neighbourhood known as Chợ Lớn is great for exploring on foot. Ho Chi Minh City locals love to gather around dented metal tables across the city for incredible roadside feasts. Don't miss highlights such as bánh mì, southern-style savoury pancakes (bánh xèo), and broken rice (cơm tấm), as per the Vietnam Tourism portal.” If you want to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, head to Bui Vien Street, where you’ll find plenty of bars, clubs, and street food vendors.

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5. Mekong Delta, Vietnam

End your trip with a visit to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, where you’ll experience life on the water. The delta is a network of rivers, canals, and floating markets, and you can take a boat tour to explore its many islands and villages. You’ll get to see traditional wooden houses, meet locals who live off the land, and sample fresh fruit and local delicacies. The Mekong Delta offers a peaceful, slow-paced experience that contrasts beautifully with the hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s larger cities.

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Image credit:Vietnam Tourism/ Instagram and Freepik