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Best attractions in Vietnam
Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Vietnam
Vietnam – a place known for its historic landmarks, tranquil beaches, and delectable cuisine, entices travellers from all over the world. It stands at the crossroads of China, Laos, Cambodia, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. With 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this Southeast Asian country is a treasure trove for those hungry for exploration.
And did you know that your money goes a long way in Vietnam?
In Vietnam, 1 Dong equals 0.0034 INR (as of November 2023). This favourable exchange rate makes Vietnam an affordable choice for travellers. Meaning - It's not just a destination; it's an economic victory for savvy travellers.
Still not convinced? Well, brace yourself to learn about the top 10 tourist attractions in Vietnam. These aren't just sights; they are calls to your inner adventurer.
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Ha Long Bay:
Arial view over Halong Bay in Vietnam
Location: Quang Linh province
A place holding great importance in Vietnamese history, Ha Long Bay is known for its stunning limestone mountains rising from emerald waters that formed thousands of years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the top tourist attractions in Vietnam.
The name Hạ Long means "descending dragon". It got this name from a famous Vietnamese legend. The tale goes that dragons spat out jewels, forming the islands, to thwart foreign invaders. These dragon-created islets now make up the enchanting landscape of Halong Bay, adding a mythical touch to its natural beauty.
An excellent addition to your Vietnam itinerary, Ha Long offers a thrilling adventure through the spectacular caves and the cultural tapestry.
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Hanoi:
The Old Quarter in Hanoi
Location: Northern Vietnam on the western bank of the Red River
Vietnam's capital city is known for its French colonial architecture and lively street life. From the centuries-old Hanoi Old Quarter and the Temple of Literature to the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, the city features a plethora of cultural and historic sites that offer a glimpse into Vietnam's past and present.
Another factor that contributes to Hanoi being the best place to visit in Vietnam is its outstanding food scene. Hanoi's cuisine is heavily entrenched in traditional Vietnamese cuisine, with iconic dishes like bun cha, pho, and bun ca taking centre stage. So if you are a food lover, consider this a culinary heaven and a must-visit destination in Vietnam.
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Hue:
Hien Nhon Gate, Imperial Palace in Hue
Location: Central Vietnam
Hue, a small city centred on the Perfume River, is well-known as a former imperial capital. It has a variety of must-see historical attractions, including the Imperial Citadel, royal mausoleums, and famous pagodas.
A visit to Hue will not just enlighten you on the city's rich history, but it will also enrich your entire trip. As the day progresses, let the experience conclude with a magnificent Hue Royal Banquet Dinner, followed by leisure at the scenic havens of Lang Co Beach and Thuan An Beach.
Pro Tip: Every two years, the lively Hue Festival takes place in April, May, or June, with the goal of preserving the ancient traditions. Align your vacation plans with these months to witness this spectacle.
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Hoi An:
Colourful lanterns on the river in Hoi An
Location: Quang Nam Province
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, Hoi An is known for its well-preserved heritage, lantern-lit evenings, and traditional architecture.
Hoi An's well-preserved Ancient Town transports you back in antiquity. You may meander through small, lantern-lit lanes littered with attractive yellow buildings that showcase a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture.
Another element that makes Hoi An a must-see sight in Vietnam is its riverfront beauty. Don't forget to take a stroll along the banks of the Thu Bon River, which provides a gorgeous backdrop.
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Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park:
View of Son Riven from Phong Nha Cave
Location: Quang Binh Province
Phong Nha-Ke Bang is an adventurer's paradise, with spectacular karst landscapes and huge cave systems.
The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot. It is home to a rich mix of vegetation and animals, including some rare or endangered species.
Aside from cave exploration, the park provides a variety of outdoor activities. Trekking, hiking, and river exploration are all options for discovering hidden jewels inside the park's huge and diverse environment.
Interesting fact: The park is home to the famous Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world.
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Cu Chi Tunnels:
Cu Chi Tunnel built by Vietnamese guerilla forces during the Vietnam War
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Want to see a massive network of underground tunnels used by soldiers during the Vietnam War? Then the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see attraction in Vietnam for you.
You can immerse yourself in the history of the Cu Chi Tunnels, where remnants of battle, including traps and concealed entrances used by the Viet Cong, vividly tell the story of the challenges faced by both sides during the conflict. Rest assured, venturing into these tunnels provides a unique and immersive experience that offers genuine awareness of the wartime struggles.
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My Son Sanctuary:
Ruins of the old Hindu temple at My Son
Location: Quang Nam Province
My Son Sanctuary was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its historical and cultural significance. The site offers insight into the Champa Kingdom's religious traditions and architectural accomplishments.
My Son temples include distinctive Cham architectural features like red bricks and sandstone carvings. Despite the passage of time and the effects of the Vietnam War, the location retains a sense of mystery and beauty.
This lovely place offers breathtaking scenery. Set in a lush green valley surrounded by mountains, My Son boasts a tranquil atmosphere that adds to the spiritual and meditative mood of the historical monument.
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Sapa Valley:
Terraced rice fields in Mu Cang Chai
Location: Lao Cai Province
Offering activities like trekking across majestic mountain peaks and swimming beneath gorgeous waterfalls, Sapa is one of the best natural attractions in Vietnam. Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, this captivating valley is known for terraced rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and stunning landscapes.
Sapa’s refreshing weather is what makes this place an ideal abode for travellers. The mountainous terrain contributes to a much milder and more temperate environment than other parts of Vietnam. Here, you may take a much-needed reprieve from the heat by sunbathing among the lush green and yellow rice fields.
Pro Tip: If you enjoy trekking, don't miss climbing Mt. Fanspian, Vietnam's highest peak. Views of whirling clouds and lush slopes from the summit of Fansipan make this experience unforgettable.
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Mui Ne Sand Dunes:
Desert in Mui Ne
Location: Binh Thuan Province
Dubai isn't the only vacation place where you can witness enormous sand dunes. Vietnam has its unique Red and White Sand Dunes at Mui Ne that provide a daily spectacle of colours that you should not miss.
Are you into photography? Then this is your haven. The shifting patterns of light and shadow on the dunes create a beautiful symphony that changes with the mood of the sun. Every photograph you take while watching the sunrise or sunset with your loved ones is a work of art in the making.
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Phu Quoc Island:
View of cable car ride, Phu Quoc Island
Location: Gulf of Thailand
If you have time after viewing the sights listed above, visit Phu Quoc Island, the largest and best natural attraction in Vietnam. This charming island, with its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and colourful night markets, is the ideal spot to conclude your Vietnam itinerary.
In the heart of Phu Quoc Island lies Suoi Tranh Waterfalls, a refreshing spot to cool off and take a swim. Make time to soak in the powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Sao Beach, undoubtedly one of Phu Quoc's finest. The clear waters provide a perfect view of stunning corals and starfish.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss flying on the island’s own cable car. This 15-minute ride will take you above the turquoise ocean, small islands, and lush green landscape of Phu Quoc.
Take Away!
The tourist attractions of Vietnam aren't just checkboxes on a list; they're invitations to a visual feast, a cultural immersion, and an exploration of the unusual. The essence of Vietnam is not confined to a particular location but rather echoes through its people, landscapes, and the memories carved in the hearts of all travellers.
Remember this as you go on your Vietnamese adventure: the beauty of Vietnam rests not only in its attractions but also in the stories it tells, the connections it forges, and the life-changing journey it offers.
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