Thanks to its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, delicious food, and friendly people, Vietnam has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. This article will introduce you to 13 of the most magnificent cities in Vietnam. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, keep reading to discover some perfect destinations for your journey.
1. How many cities are there in Vietnam? Which are the 10 largest cities?
Vietnam is divided into 58 provinces and 5 centrally-administered municipalities (including the capital city, Hanoi, along with Ho Chi Minh City, Haiphong, Da Nang, and Can Tho). Most provinces have at least one city. The ten largest cities in Vietnam are Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Haiphong, Bien Hoa, Can Tho, Thuan An, Di An, Hue, and Vung Tau.
Cities in Vietnam are not only hubs of economic growth, culture, innovation, and creativity but also captivating tourist destinations for both domestic and international visitors. While world-famous cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City often steal the spotlight, many lesser-known cities also offer a wealth of attractions for visitors to admire and explore. Let’s discover the top 13 tourist cities in Vietnam, each boasting stunning natural landscapes, diverse cultures, historical landmarks, and more.
2. TOP 13 Tourist Cities in Vietnam That Travelers Should Know
2.1. Hanoi – The Enthralling Capital City of Vietnam
Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. With a rich history spanning over a thousand years, Hanoi offers a unique blend of old and new, traditional and modern, and Eastern and Western influences. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi. This picturesque lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens, temples, and historic buildings, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists to relax and soak in the sights and sounds of the city.
Another must-see attraction in Hanoi is the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with old buildings and shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. This bustling area is perfect for immersing yourself in local culture and sampling delicious Vietnamese street food. Hanoi is also home to numerous historical and cultural sites, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hanoi Opera House. These landmarks provide a window into Vietnam’s rich history, artistic heritage, and intellectual traditions.
2.2. Ho Chi Minh City – A Major Vietnam Metropolis
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city and a dynamic destination for tourists. One of the most famous attractions in this bustling metropolis is the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning 19th-century church located in the heart of the city. The cathedral is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and admire its impressive architecture.
Additionally, tourists can visit the War Remnants Museum, which offers a sobering insight into Vietnam’s history. The museum houses exhibits and artifacts from the Vietnam War, including photographs, weapons, and other historical items.
While Ho Chi Minh City may not rival Hanoi in terms of historical sights, it excels in offering vibrant and luxurious restaurants, bars, and music venues. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the most energetic city in Vietnam, a visit to Ho Chi Minh City is a must.
2.3. Da Nang City – Among the Best Cities to Live in Vietnam
Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, is a popular destination for tourists eager to explore the country’s natural beauty. The city’s main allure lies in its stunning combination of sunshine, long sandy beaches, and picturesque mountains.
One of the most famous natural attractions in Da Nang is the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills that house numerous caves, temples, and pagodas. Visitors can climb to the top of these mountains to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
As one of the most stunning coastal cities in Vietnam, Da Nang’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters leave countless visitors in awe. A dip in the sea here is sure to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your trip.
For those interested in history and culture, Da Nang offers several museums and historic sites, such as the Cham Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient Cham civilization, and the Da Nang Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases contemporary Vietnamese art.
2.4. Nha Trang – One of the Best Coastal Cities in Vietnam
Another coastal city you should visit in Vietnam is Nha Trang, located in the south-central region of the country. This vibrant city has long been a favorite among tourists for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere. The two most famous and beautiful beaches in Nha Trang are Bai Dai Beach and Doc Let Beach.
With a wide range of activities to choose from, including island hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving, Nha Trang promises an unforgettable and thrilling experience for visitors.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Nha Trang is renowned for its high-quality seafood, particularly fish, squid, and shrimp. The city is dotted with numerous stalls and vendors offering a wide array of seafood dishes, prepared in various styles such as deep frying, pan frying, grilling, boiling, and steaming. Paired with unique sauces, the taste and aroma of Nha Trang’s seafood are irresistible and sure to delight any visitor’s palate.
2.5. Hue City – The Best Choice for a Vietnam City Tour
Hue City, located in central Vietnam, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. As the imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802, Hue is home to many significant historical sites and landmarks, including the ancient citadel, royal tombs, and palaces. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich past and are a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
One of the main attractions in Hue City is the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This walled fortress once served as the seat of the Nguyen dynasty and is filled with ornate palaces, temples, and gardens, making it a captivating destination for visitors.
Another popular attraction in Hue City is the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story structure located on the banks of the Perfume River. As one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, Thien Mu Pagoda offers breathtaking views of the river. After visiting the pagoda, it’s highly recommended that visitors take a boat tour along the Perfume River, providing a unique perspective on the city’s sights.
2.6. Hoi An City – One of the Most Famous Cities in Vietnam
Hoi An City is renowned for its picturesque streets, lantern-lit alleys, and cultural landmarks, making it a favorite destination for tourists in Vietnam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An Ancient Town is the centerpiece of Hoi An City. This well-preserved trading port, dating back to the 15th century, is filled with remarkable historical structures such as the Japanese Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, the Cantonese Assembly Hall, and Quan Cong Temple.
Hoi An is also renowned for its tailoring and custom-made clothing. Visitors can have garments made to order by skilled local tailors at very reasonable prices. The city is also home to numerous art galleries and shops selling local handicrafts and artwork, including pottery, silk, and paintings.
Food lovers will find Hoi An to be a culinary delight, with a wide array of delectable dishes to enjoy. Some must-try specialties include Cao Lau (a noodle dish with pork and herbs), Banh Mi Hoi An (Vietnamese sandwiches), and Com Ga (chicken rice).
2.7. Phu Quoc City – Among the Top-Rated Vietnam Cities to Visit
Phu Quoc, a stunning island located off the southern coast of Vietnam, is an ideal destination for travelers seeking more than just sunbathing. The island boasts several beautiful beaches, including Long Beach, Sao Beach, and Ong Lang Beach.
Visitors can relax on the white sandy shores, dive into crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a variety of water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving. Additionally, tourists can explore the island’s natural beauty by visiting Phu Quoc National Park and Suoi Tranh Waterfall, where they can discover lush forests, mountains, and cascading waterfalls.
Visitors to Phu Quoc can also take a tour of the island’s fish sauce factories, where one of Vietnam’s most famous condiments is produced. This tour offers an intriguing insight into the fish sauce-making process and highlights its significance in Vietnamese cuisine.
2.8. Ha Long – One of the Most Beautiful Cities in Northern Vietnam
Ha Long City, situated in northern Vietnam, is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including stunning limestone cliffs and emerald green waters. The city’s main attraction is Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The bay is dotted with thousands of limestone islands and islets that rise dramatically from the water, creating a truly awe-inspiring landscape. Visitors can take boat tours of the bay, explore the islands, and dive into the crystal-clear waters, experiencing the beauty of this remarkable destination.
In Ha Long City, visitors can also explore spiritual destinations such as Long Tien Pagoda and Cai Bau Pagoda, which offer peaceful retreats and cultural insights. Additionally, Ha Long is home to several traditional villages, including Cua Van Fishing Village and Vung Vieng Fishing Village, where visitors can immerse themselves in the daily lives of local fishermen and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life.
2.9. Da Lat City – Among the Most Renowned Tourist Cities in Vietnam
Da Lat, often called the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its mild year-round climate, is a charming city nestled in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. This romantic destination is perfect for those looking to escape the sweltering heat of other parts of Vietnam, especially during the summer.
Da Lat captivates visitors with its natural beauty, featuring lush green hills, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Travelers can explore picturesque spots like Xuan Huong Lake or Pongour Waterfall to admire the tranquil beauty of Da Lat and immerse themselves in the wonders of nature.
Here’s a refined version: For outdoor enthusiasts, Da Lat offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and camping in the nearby national parks and nature reserves. Those eager to savor local cuisine will find Da Lat famous for its street food, particularly dishes like “Banh Trang Nuong” (grilled rice paper with toppings) and Nem Nuong (grilled pork sausage).
2.10. Hai Phong City
Hai Phong is a vibrant and captivating destination located in northeastern Vietnam. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, natural beauty, or local culture, Hai Phong has something to offer. One of the city’s highlights is its stunning architecture, reflecting its rich history of French colonialism. Beautiful buildings and monuments from that era are scattered throughout Hai Phong, adding to its charm and appeal.
Some of the most notable examples of French architecture in Hai Phong include the Hai Phong Opera House and Hai Phong Post Office, both of which are must-see destinations for anyone interested in architecture and history. Beyond its beautiful architecture, Hai Phong is also home to stunning natural wonders. From the picturesque beaches of Do Son to the breathtaking landscapes of Cat Ba Island, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring scenery for tourists to explore and admire.
2.11. Can Tho City
Can Tho City, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam, is a charming and peaceful destination. Here, you can experience the region’s famous floating markets, lush rice paddies, and intricate network of canals and waterways.
During your visit to Can Tho, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the largest and most colorful markets in the Mekong Delta. A boat ride through the market offers a unique chance to witness the bustling trade of fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts. Other must-visit floating markets in the area include Phong Dien Floating Market and Tra On Floating Market.
In addition to its vibrant markets, Can Tho is also known for its beautiful scenery and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore famous temples and pagodas such as Quang Duc Pagoda and Munirangsyaram Pagoda, or take a bike ride through the scenic countryside to get a closer look at the region’s rice fields, orchards, and canals.
2.12. Quy Nhon City
Quy Nhon City, a coastal gem in central Vietnam, offers tourists a wealth of pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions. One of the top attractions in Quy Nhon is Bai Xep Beach, a secluded cove with clear blue water, soft sand, and picturesque fishing boats.
For those interested in the rich history and culture of Quy Nhon, a visit to Banh It Tower is highly recommended. This unique Champa dynasty structure offers insight into the ancient civilization that once flourished in the region. Another must-see attraction is Long Khanh Pagoda, which features a giant Buddha statue and stunning architectural details, making it a highlight of any visit to the city.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical sites, Quy Nhon is also celebrated for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, such as grilled scallops and steamed clams, as well as traditional dishes like Bun Cha Ca (fish cake noodle soup) and Banh Beo (steamed rice cakes with shrimp).
2.13. Ninh Binh City
Ninh Binh City, surrounded by limestone mountains, vast rice paddies, and winding rivers, is a paradise for nature lovers. One of the top attractions in Ninh Binh is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a stunning network of limestone karst peaks, caves, and valleys, all of which can be explored by boat or on foot. Another popular destination is the Tam Coc-Bich Dong area, where visitors can take a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through towering limestone cliffs, lush rice paddies, and ancient temples.
Moreover, Ninh Binh offers tourists numerous cultural heritage sites and historical landmarks to explore. Visitors can explore the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which served as the political and cultural center of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. This site features temples, pagodas, and ancient citadels, including the Dinh and Le Temples, which are dedicated to Vietnam’s former kings.
In Summary
This article has provided numerous fascinating details about the top-appealing cities in Vietnam and suggested must-visit attractions in each. Every one of these 13 cities has its own unique charm and distinct appeal that will undoubtedly capture the hearts of all who visit. We hope this article helps you plan a fantastic journey to Vietnam.
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