What Are the Best Places to Visit in Vietnam for First-Time Travellers?
Okay, look. It's Travel Junky, and let me just say: Vietnam? Best choice you’ll make. It’s going to hit you, full force, totally sensory rush. But it’s amazing. You’re stressed about the map? Where to start? Don't. Seriously
This is our actual, real cheat sheet. Forget the polished stuff. This is the truth about the best places to visit in Vietnam, straight from our experience. We're giving you the real blueprint for the real adventure. Let’s just go.
1. Hanoi: Go North, Go Wild
Hanoi has to be your starting point. Gotta begin there. It's the capital, and it’s beautiful chaos, absolute chaos. The south is all business, but Hanoi? It keeps the soul, you know? It's this wild mix of old, old traditions, those classy French colonial buildings, you’ll see the elegance and just, like, constant motorbikes. Always.
The Old Quarter: Just Walk In, Seriously
The Old Quarter is essential. It’s a literal maze of tiny streets. Still named for what they sold centuries ago (Silk Street, Silver Street, you get the idea). Our number one tip? Ditch the map. Just start wandering. You have to learn the motorbike dance; it’s totally part of the fun! Every corner smells like incredible street food and incense. It's loud, it's frantic, but it’s totally, totally addictive. This is real life happening.
Need a Breather? Find the Quiet Spots
You're gonna need a break, trust me. Head to Hoan Kiem Lake. It's right there in the middle, and it’s quiet, somehow. Go early, like 6 a.m.; you'll see all the locals doing tai chi, exercising. It's a beautiful scene, honestly. Cross the bright red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, too. It’s just nice.
Historically, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is really important. Very solemn. Dress respectfully, please. Nearby? The Temple of Literature. Think of Vietnam's original university as a thousand years old! It connects you to those deep, deep, intellectual roots. Beautiful courtyards there.
Your First Food: Must-Haves
Okay, food rule one: Phở. You can't skip it. Find the busiest stall. Plastic stool. Order a bowl. That perfect broth, the noodles, the meat, it’s the perfect welcome. But don't stop there. In Hanoi? Gotta try Bún chả. It's grilled pork patties and slices served with noodles and a tangy, slightly sweet dipping broth. Best lunch. You take the noodles, herbs, and meat, and dip them all in the broth. Try Bánh cuốn, steamed rice paper rolls. Delicate. And definitely try Chả Cá Lã Vọng, a turmeric fish dish that is just legendary here. It's an event.
And the coffee? Don't skip the coffee. Get an Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng). I know it sounds weird, but trust me! It's a thick, sweet custard layer on top of strong, dark coffee. It’s basically a dessert and a total Hanoi icon. Go to Giang Cafe. Your first piece of the Vietnam street food guide.
2. Ha Long Bay: Nature’s Big Screen
Drive east from Hanoi, and you hit something impossible. Ha Long Bay is non-negotiable. It’s a UNESCO site. Thousands of huge, jungle-covered limestone islands are popping up out of the emerald water. The scale is just crazy.
The Cruise is Essential
The best way to visit in Vietnam is 100% on an overnight cruise. Day trips rush. Overnight lets you dodge crowds, kayak into hidden lagoons, seriously, some places you can only get to by kayaking through a small cave entrance, check out caves, and watch the sun set over those epic peaks. Pure chill. Two nights if you can swing it. One night is too fast.
Junky Secret: Ha Long Bay crowds. For a super peaceful vibe, look for a cruise that sails into Lan Ha Bay, it’s next door. Same amazing views, fewer boats. It’s one of those really cool hidden places in Vietnam. If you’re planning a romantic honeymoon tour, book this! Calmer vibe, for sure.
3. The Central Divide: From Da Nang to Hue
Travelling south, you hit Central Vietnam. This area has the best beaches and the most incredible history.
Da Nang: The Modern City Beach
Da Nang is worth a stop, even if just for the airport. It's the biggest city: modern, clean, right on the beach. Check out the Marble Mountains, nearby five huge limestone hills, climb up and explore the caves and temples. Then chill on My Khe Beach. It's massive. Da Nang shows Vietnam’s future; it's booming.
The Epic Train Ride is Essential
You absolutely, 100% have to take the train ride between Hue and Da Nang (the airport city for Hoi An). This ride is, honestly, one of the best train journeys in Vietnam. This stretch of the Reunification Express hugs the coast as it climbs over the famous Hai Van Pass (yes, the one from the car show!). The views of the ocean are insane. It’s dramatic scenery. Book a window seat for a daytime ride! Don't miss this, it’s mandatory.
4. Hue: Imperial History and River Life
Just north of Hoi An is Hue. This was the Imperial Capital for over a century (1800s to 1945), so it feels older, bigger, more formal.
The Emperor's Place (Deep Dive)
The main site is the massive Imperial Citadel. Huge walled area. Housed the emperor, temples, the Forbidden Purple City. Even though a lot was damaged during the war, walking through the restored sections gives you this powerful history lesson. You see the sheer scale of power.
For a calm afternoon, grab a traditional "Dragon Boat" cruise on the Perfume River. It’s slow, it’s relaxing. Stop to see the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-story temple right on the riverbank. Classic Hue image.
5. Hoi An: The Charm City
Moving just south, you get to Hoi An, and everything slows way down. This old trading town is gorgeous: yellow walls, mixed architecture, super relaxed vibe. Like a storybook.
Yellow Walls, Lanterns, and Shopping
The Ancient Town is mostly for walking (a major win!). The buildings are painted this distinct golden yellow, and the whole town is strung up with thousands of colorful silk lanterns. Walk across the Japanese Covered Bridge. When it gets dark, the lanterns light up, and people float little candles on the river. Magic.
- Shopping: Hoi An is tailor central! You can get a custom suit, dress, or boots made in just 24 hours. Great souvenir. Go to a reputable place and spend time on fittings. It’s worth it.
Central Coast Food Stops (Hoi An Specifics)
Hoi An has unique food. Find some Cao Lầu, a noodle dish you can only get there. They swear the water has to come from one specific ancient well! And listen, this is where you go for the absolute best Banh Mi. Hit Banh Mi Phuong; it’s genuinely legendary. Your next big stop on the Vietnam street food guide. Another must-try? White Rose Dumplings, super delicate shrimp dumplings.
6. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): The Engine Room, Down South
Ho Chi Minh City (still Saigon to everyone) is the biggest city. Economic machine. It moves at top speed: skyscrapers, huge traffic, thrilling, non-stop energy. Opposite of Hanoi, more commercial.
Old Buildings, New Vibes
In District 1, you see amazing things: old French spots like the Saigon Central Post Office (Eiffel designed it!) and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, right next to huge new high-rises. It shows you how fast Vietnam is growing. Crazy visual contrast. History? The War Remnants Museum is difficult, but necessary. Prepare yourself. And the Reunification Palace is key to understanding the past. Stop at both.
Day trip: Cu Chi Tunnels. A must. Crawling through (if you dare!) gives you a humbling sense of the soldiers' cleverness. Intense experience.
Southern Grub and Nightlife
HCMC is a massive food city. Try Cơm Tấm (broken rice) with a beautifully grilled pork chop. Southern food is often a little sweeter. Nightlife? Bui Vien Street for the wildest party, or a rooftop bar for incredible views. Check out the craft beer scene.
7. The Mekong Delta: Southern Lifeblood
Don't skip the Mekong. It’s a vital region. A huge maze of rivers, swamps, and islands in the far south. The rice basket of the entire country.
Day trip from HCMC is okay, but an overnight is better. Go see the floating markets like Cái Răng near Cần Thơ. Unforgettable morning, boats selling fruit, food, all weaving around. Life on the water. It’s so unique. One of those cool, hidden places in Vietnam that feels untouched.
8. Sapa & The Northwest Highlands: Epic Terraces
For a completely different trip, head back north to the mountains near China. Sapa is your entry to the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Famous terraced rice fields. They look like giant green steps built into the mountains. Visually stunning.
Trekking and Culture
Remote region. Home to minority groups (H'mong, Dzao). The main draw is trekking. Hire a local guide for a multi-day homestay hike. Great, authentic cultural hit, learn about their clothes, food. Be respectful. Trekking is challenging but totally rewarding.
- Getting There: Hanoi to Lao Cai is another of the best train journeys in Vietnam. Comfy overnight sleeper train—a classic!
9. Final Planning Notes & Logistics
Okay, logistics time. You need to know this stuff.
Getting Around: Choose Your Ride
This North-South route is the perfect plan. Hits all high points. Getting around is simple.
- Fly: Domestic flights are cheap and fast (Hanoi to Hue, Da Nang to HCMC). Short on time? Fly.
- Train: Reunification Express train is slow, but awesome. Sleeper cabins. Hai Van Pass stretch is mandatory.
- Buses: Sleeper buses are cheap and comfortable for overnight travel. Good for short hops.
- Local Transport: Use Grab (motorbike is cheapest, often fastest!). Essential for safety/fair pricing.
Money and Haggling
Currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Don't carry too much cash. ATMs everywhere. Haggling is expected in local markets, but not official stores. Be polite, smile, aim for a 20-30% discount. Part of the culture.
The Food Culture (It's a Religion)
Food safety? Stick to places that are busy and look clean enough. Dive in! Sit on those low plastic stools. Eat street food. That's the real vietnam street food guide you need. Try things like Bún riêu (crab noodle soup). Awesome vegetarian food near temples, too.
When to Go (Weather Matters)
Vietnam is long, so complicated weather.
- North (Hanoi, Ha Long, Sapa): Best is autumn (Sep-Nov) or spring (Mar-May). Winters are cold!
- Central (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang): Best is dry season (Jan-Aug). Avoid Sep-Nov (typhoons/rain).
- South (HCMC, Mekong): Generally good year-round, but dry season (Nov-Apr) is best.
Custom Tours vs. Solo Travel
If the planning is stressing you out, honestly, book a vietnam tour package, it handles the logistics, the hotels, the transport, and you just enjoy the trip. If you want maximum freedom, do it yourself, but prepare for some planning headaches. It's worth it either way.
Final Thought
Vietnam is unforgettable. The people, the history, the beauty, the food, it sticks with you. Ready to start planning? Whether you’re organising a romantic honeymoon tour or just looking for the ultimate Vietnam tour package, we can help make sure you see all these spots and maybe even a few extra hidden places in Vietnam.
