As the scorching summer sun begins its ascent, casting its golden glow over the vibrant landscapes of Vietnam, adventure beckons. Embark on a journey through a tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty as we unveil the top eight cities to explore in Vietnam this summer. From the bustling streets of Ha Noi to the serene waters of Hoi An, each city offers a unique glimpse into the soul of this enchanting country. So pack your bags, ready your senses, and get ready to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Vietnam's most captivating destinations.
Ha Noi - Vietnam's capital city
Ha Noi, the Vietnam capital city, is one of the most touristy Vietnam cities. With a rich history dating back over a thousand years, Ha Noi boasts a special blend of old and new, traditional and modern, and Eastern and Western influences.
Being one of the biggest cities in Vietnam, you’ll find a whole range of street food vendors all over the city, but some of the best known ones are populated in the Old Town, in the backstreets around Hoan Kiem Lake. This is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys lined with old buildings and shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. This bustling area is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and try some delicious Vietnamese street food.
Moreover, Ha Noi is also home to many historical and cultural sites, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Ha Noi Opera House. These landmarks offer a glimpse into Vietnam's rich past, as well as its artistic and intellectual heritage.
Ha Giang - Where majestic nature meets authentic local life
Nestled in the northern region of Vietnam, Ha Giang, Vietnam beckons adventurers with its awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. This captivating province offers challenging mountain trails, lush greenery, and colorful ethnic villages.
A border province and official Frontier Area, Ha Giang lies in the remote far northern region of the country. To visit this province is to journey back in time and encounter some of Vietnam’s most rugged and grand landscapes. Ha Giang is best experienced as a road trip on two wheels, soaking up the majesty of the landscape and the atmosphere of the remote towns and minority villages.
Ninh Binh - The best city for outdoor adventures and spending time in nature
There’s simply so much to do here and you’ll get to experience Vietnam for all its majestic natural beauty. You’ll find endless adventure based tours in Ninh Binh, and it’s even possible to take day trips from Ha Noi, as it is located less than 100km southeast of the capital of Vietnam. If you’re looking for something more off the beaten track away from the tourist crowds, spending a few days in Ninh Binh is a really worthwhile thing to do.
One of the top attractions in Ninh Binh is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a network of limestone karst peaks, caves, and valleys that can be explored by boat or on foot. Another popular attraction is the Tam Coc-Bich Dong area, where visitors can take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River to see towering limestone cliffs, rice paddies, and ancient temples.
Da Nang - The best cities to live in Vietnam
The city’s primary draw is the spectacular combination of beautiful sunshine, long sandy beaches, and picturesque mountains. The most famous mountain in Da Nang is the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills that are home to numerous caves, temples, and pagodas. Visitors can climb to the top of the mountains to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Hoi An - An ancient town in central Vietnam
Hoi An was traditionally a trading port, but this fell into decline toward the end of the 18th century. Hoi An today is one of the best cities in Vietnam to visit if you want to experience temples, tea houses and merchants with an exquisitely ancient feel. Spending some time in the old town of Hoi An is a must, and whilst busy, it puts you right in the heart it all where you can indulge on the street food and restaurants as well as the unique attractions the city has to offer. However, if you’re looking for a more off the beaten track experience, Cam Chau offers a more authentic experience of Hoi An situated between the old town and beaches.
Foodies will also love Hoi An City as they can enjoy numerous delectable dishes here. Some must-try dishes include Cao Lau (a noodle dish with pork and herbs), Banh mi Hoi An (Vietnamese sandwiches), and Com Ga (chicken rice).
Da Lat - The "City of Eternal Spring"
Da Lat is a charming city located in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. This romantic city is an ideal destination for tourists seeking to escape the sweltering weather of other parts of Vietnam, especially in summer.
The city captures the hearts of visitors with its natural beauty, with lush green hills, serene lakes, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore places such as the Xuan Huong Lake or the Pongour Waterfall to admire the peaceful beauty of Da Lat and immerse in the wonderful world of nature.
Ho Chi Minh City - The largest city in Vietnam
Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant destination for tourists to explore. One of the most well-known tourist attractions in this bustling metropolis is the Notre Dame Cathedral, a beautiful 19th-century church located in the heart of the city. The cathedral is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and admire the stunning architecture.
Ho Chi Minh City has a very different feel in terms of food from Ha Noi, with each having its own individual style. People in Ho Chi Minh City tend to use and combine ingredients and flavors from different regions to create their dishes. Here, you’ll find dishes from all over Vietnam to try at the vibrant street food markets, stalls and restaurants that permeate the city.
Phu Quoc - A beautiful island located off the southern coast of Vietnam
Phu Quoc is an ideal destination for those seeking a trip that goes beyond sunbathing. The island is home to many gorgeous beaches, including Long Beach, Sao Beach, and Ong Lang Beach. Visitors can relax on the white-sand beaches, dive in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a range of water sports, such as snorkeling and scuba diving. In addition, tourists can also visit Phu Quoc National Park and Suoi Tranh Waterfall to explore the lush forests, mountains, and waterfalls.