08 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam for Indians

Experience the magic of Vietnam, a land where each region unveils a breathtaking scene and a welcoming culture. From the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a unique adventure. Explore ancient temples, delve into vibrant markets, and discover the warmth of the Vietnamese people with 08 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam for Indians with Deluxe Group Tours.

1. Historical Treasures of Hanoi – Best Places in Vietnam

The capital city of Hanoi is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. Known as the “Paris of the East,” Hanoi is a sightseeing paradise with many famous landmarks, historical sites, and a rich cultural heritage.

Notably, Hanoi boasts developed infrastructure, affordable accommodations, world-class cuisine, and a long-standing history. Moreover, from Hanoi, you can easily travel to Ha Long Bay or the northwestern mountains. But first, take the time to explore and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Hanoi with the following highlighted landmarks:

• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the heart of Hanoi, boasts a history spanning over 1,300 years. It possesses unique relics and artifacts that testify to the history of Thang Long, Hanoi, and the Vietnamese nation through various eras. Not only does the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long hold immense historical value, but it also possesses significant architectural and cultural merits, making it a must-visit during your Hanoi tour.

• Hanoi Old Quater

Hanoi, with its 36 streets, has been immortalized in countless Vietnamese poems and songs. However, it is only when you set foot here, even if you are not a dreamer or familiar with Vietnamese poetry, that you will understand why this place has inspired such profound creativity in poets.

Let your feet lead the way, and you will discover the most about the nostalgic streets of the capital. No destinations, no predetermined routes, just turning right, left, or straight. One street is filled with toys, another with shoes, clothing, antiques, or even tombstones and motorcycle components.

The narrow streets are bustling, with houses closely packed together and traffic weaving like threads in a loom. For those unaccustomed, the scene may seem somewhat chaotic. However, as you delve deeper into this maze, moving from street to street, you will begin to appreciate the unique and distinctive culture of the lives and people here.

• Water Puppet Shows

In addition to sightseeing, you should enjoy cultural performances rich in Vietnam’s national identity in Hanoi. Among these, water puppetry is a premier theatrical art that you must see when visiting Hanoi.

The lively puppets, seemingly performing on their own on stage, will immerse you in the wet rice civilization with activities related to Vietnamese agricultural production. These include dragon dancing, phoenix dancing, herding buffaloes, playing flutes, honoring scholars, and boat racing performances.

Each performance is a story contributing to the distinctive culture of the Vietnamese people, offering you fascinating experiences.

2. The Enchanting Halong Bay – Best Place to Visit in Vietnam

Halong Bay is one of the shreds of evidence showcasing how marvelous nature can be in creating scenic masterpieces. The calm surface of the bay, with its crystal-clear water and picturesque limestone islands, undoubtedly leaves an unforgettable impression on you.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting Halong Bay offers not only the opportunity to admire beautiful scenery but also to participate in many exciting experiential activities.

• Halong Bay Cruise

With its stunning landscape and magnificent system of limestone mountains and caves, Halong Bay is renowned as a must-visit destination at least once in a lifetime. Especially, cruising to admire the scenery of Halong Bay is one of the top activities there.

Exploring Halong Bay by cruise, you not only participate in an exciting itinerary, enjoy gourmet cuisine, and experience 5-star amenities but also marvel at the mystical beauty of Surprise Cave, immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful islands in Halong Bay named Ti Top, and engage in various thrilling activities on board. These luxury cruises will take you through different emotional stages of the journey to explore this heritage site.

What could be more wonderful than returning to the sea, amidst a 5-star ambiance, to listen to the gentle lapping of the waves and enjoy a heavenly vacation where fatigue dissipates to make room for relaxation and peace?

• Kayaking

Halong Bay made it to the top 25 leading kayak destinations in the world, as voted by National Geographic Adventures magazine in 2000. This is an exciting activity in Halong Bay where you get to paddle your kayak on the calm waves, immersing yourself in the absolute serenity of the water space. Especially when moving through narrow waterways and delving into caves aboard a small kayak, you’ll get to touch the limestone stalactites firsthand.

The scenery of the mountains and the water creates a soothing panorama that gently captivates the soul. Whether you’re leisurely drifting along with the kayak in the gentle sea breeze or paddling close to the rocky mountainside to explore new sensations, you’ll feel relaxed and serene.

• Caves and islands exploration:

When exploring Ha Long Bay, one of the things you can’t miss is visiting the limestone islands and caves with their distinctive shapes in this area.

Each limestone island in this area has its own unique and diverse characteristics, vividly depicted throughout. The islands in Ha Long Bay offer various attractions for you to explore, such as Dau Nguoi Island, Rong Island (Dragon Island), Lu Huong Island, and Trong Mai Island. Hidden within each of these islands is the mysterious beauty of stunning caves like Thien Cung Cave, Tam Cung Cave, and Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave). Experiencing these wonders will leave you marveling at the heavenly scenery on earth in this place.

3. Tranquil Beauty of Ninh Binh – Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Another one on the list of the top 8 best places to visit in Vietnam that you shouldn’t miss is Ninh Binh. Ninh Binh is a small city in northern Vietnam with many natural wonders. It is known as Halong Bay on land. The riverside landscape combined with lush green mountains makes Ninh Binh resemble a secluded paradise.

The tourist destinations in Ninh Binh are favored by nature, with fresh, majestic, and poetic natural landscapes, along with a rich history and longstanding culture. Particularly, Ninh Binh boasts diverse terrain, including mountains, plains, and coastal areas, embodying the various shades of Vietnam’s landscapes, making it one of the best places to go in Vietnam and promising to offer you a wide range of experiences.

• Trang An

Trang An is a unique scenic complex recognized as Southeast Asia’s first mixed heritage site. With its stunning and poetic natural scenery, Trang An in Ninh Binh promises to be a remarkable Vietnam tourist destination, offering you unforgettable experiences.

When visiting Trang An, you will be immersed in the majestic natural landscape with its towering limestone mountains and clear streams flowing through caves. A memorable experience in Trang An is taking a boat ride to admire the combination of lush green rice fields and crystal-clear waters that create a serene natural painting.

Especially from the boat, you will admire the beauty of Bright Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, Dark Cave, Tran Cave, etc. Gliding through these caves on a small boat and hearing the sound of the oars and water dripping down the rock walls is a fascinating experience.

Not just limited to the natural scenery, Trang An also treats you to the ancient and charming architectural wonder of Hanh Cung Vu Lam. This is a renowned historical architectural relic in Trang An. The stacked stone blocks, combined with the sophisticated, ancient architecture, create a breathtaking scene.

With its natural scenery of towering mountains, caves, a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna, and a series of other famous historical relics, you can be sure that a visit to Trang An will be an exceptional experience.

• Mua Cave

Despite being amidst many famous scenic spots in Ninh Binh, such as Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, etc., Mua Cave still possesses its own outstanding beauty. Immersing yourself in the wonder of Mua Cave in Ninh Binh, you will experience a hidden paradise amidst the mundane world.

Here, there is a pathway leading to the top of Mua Mountain, constructed in the architectural style of the Great Wall of China, with over 500 stone steps. From the summit of Mua Mountain, you will behold the perfect beauty of nature, the majestic natural scenery with vast golden rice fields stretching in Tam Coc, or the fragrant aroma of lotus ponds wafting through the air.

Over time, Mua Cave becomes even more enchanting with its serene and moss-covered beauty. At the summit of the mountain are tower-like structures resembling those found in temples, with pointed peaks and curved, vaulted roofs, along with sacred Guanyin statues. All of these elements blend harmoniously with the sky and clouds, creating a mystical and sacred landscape awaiting your visit.

• Tam Coc

Ninh Binh is renowned for its poetic and romantic landscapes, and one of the most notable among them is the place known as “Nam Thien De Nhi Dong” (Tam Coc Bich Dong). When you visit this place, you will be treated to the picturesque scenery of rural fields interspersed with limestone mountain caves. All of these elements blend to create a vibrant painting that captivates your gaze.

Tam Coc translates to “three caves,” consisting of Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave. These caves still preserve the pristine beauty bestowed upon them by Mother Nature. The gentle river winds its way, embracing the caves and creating strips of silk weaving through the mountains.

Moving on the rustic wooden boat to admire the scenery and listen to the unique stories will be an experience that leaves a lasting impression here.

4. Cultural Riches in Hue – Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Hue, once the imperial capital, now proudly stands as a World Heritage Site. Visiting Hue is like immersing yourself in a paradise of exploration with historical monuments recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The cultural relics and unique architectural works maintain their majestic, ancient, and solemn features.

In Hue, you will have the opportunity to admire golden palaces, majestic citadels, and solemn tombs. You can also experience famous scenic spots such as the Perfume River, Bach Ma Mountain, Tam Giang Lagoon, and Lang Co Bay.

• Dong Ba Market

Formed in 1899, Dong Ba Market is one of the iconic symbols of the ancient capital, bustling with buyers and sellers year-round. The market stretches from Gia Hoi Bridge to Truong Tien Bridge, with thousands of stalls.

Upon entering the market, you will experience the vibrant atmosphere of the most famous market in Hue. You can indulge in delicious food or wander through stalls selling clothing, fabrics, hats, various types of fish sauce, and Hue-specific cakes and sweets to take home.

The market, though bustling and noisy, holds a long-standing historical charm amidst the everyday hustle and bustle. This unique atmosphere makes you dive into it.

• Perfume River

The gentle, cool green river, like a serene ribbon, lies in the heart of Hue City. The Perfume River has become a symbol of the ancient capital.

Visiting the Perfume River, you can sit on a dragon boat and immerse yourself in the peaceful scenery of Hue, gazing at the ancient Hue Citadel or the tranquil city along the riverbank. In the evening, listening to Hue songs on the Perfume River is a unique cultural activity in this area.

Especially, watching the sunset on the Perfume River in Hue is an extraordinary experience. As the sun sets behind the green mountains of the Truong Son range, you are enveloped in the serene atmosphere of the river. You’ll be immersed in the warm golden glow of the sunset, quietly observing and enjoying the tranquility at the end of the day in the city of Hue.

Looking at the Perfume River, you will always feel the calm and gentle flow of a green silk ribbon drifting leisurely through all four seasons, always dreamy and serene.

• Hue Imperial City

Mentioning the complex of Hue Imperial relics, you cannot miss the Imperial City, a unique cultural and historical landmark within the complex of Hue Imperial relics. The Imperial City includes both the Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City, with over 100 architectural works constructed during the Nguyen Dynasty. These structures have witnessed the many ups and downs of Vietnam’s feudal dynasties and were recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO nearly 30 years ago.

Visiting Hue Imperial City, you will have the opportunity to explore the grandeur of the royal court and the unique cultural features in the architecture of the Vietnamese people in the past. Additionally, you will listen to the achievements and legacies of the Nguyen dynasty emperors.

The Imperial City of Hue is an indispensable part of this heritage land, carrying the mission of reminding of the glorious era of a dynasty.

5. Danang with Urban Energy and Scenic Beauty

Da Nang, known as the most livable city in Vietnam, not only inspires with its modern, dynamic, and civilized lifestyle but also with its picturesque natural landscapes. This beautiful port city offers countless fascinating experiences waiting for you to explore. From the white sandy beaches of My Khe and the breathtaking Ba Na Hills to the serene Son Tra Peninsula, Da Nang promises to bring you unforgettable moments of discovery and enjoyment.

• Ba Na Hills

Surrounded by mountain landscapes and enveloped in mist, Ba Na Hills creates a dreamy atmosphere. Particularly with its unique, youthful, and colorful experiences, Ba Na Hills is an ideal destination for your vacation.

At Ba Na Hills, you can immerse yourself in the romantic ambiance of the French Village, light incense at Linh Ung Pagoda atop the mountain, explore the Debay Wine Cellar with its expensive, rare wines from France, and enjoy the diverse beauty of Le Jardin d’Amour flower garden. For those who love challenges and adventure, Fantasy Park offers over 200 games, providing thrilling and exciting moments.

Ba Na Hill truly lives up to its reputation as a fairyland, blending human-created architecture with the natural landscape.

• Son Tra Peninsula

Known as the green paradise of Da Nang, the Son Tra Peninsula is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Da Nang. This place not only features picturesque beaches and diverse ecological systems but also offers countless exciting experiences waiting for you to explore.

Here, you can participate in various exciting activities, such as exploring the colorful coral reef world by snorkeling or diving, experiencing the lives of local fishermen by fishing with them, and admiring the beautiful city from above with its bustling streets, picturesque beaches, and majestic mountains from a helicopter. Additionally, the Linh Ung Pagoda and Ban Co Peak, situated on the hilltop, are also must-visit spots.

Carrying its pristine beauty, clear blue waters, picturesque landscapes, and year-round cool climate, you will be overwhelmed by the natural beauty that is rarely found elsewhere, like the Son Tra Peninsula.

6. Quang Nam with Timeless Traditions and Scenic Splendor

Quang Nam is a rare destination that gathers all the beauty you could hope to find in a promised land. It offers fresh air, beautiful nature, culturally rich and traditional sites, and people whose mention evokes boundless affection.

Boasting numerous breathtaking landscapes and incredibly attractive tourist destinations, Quang Nam tourism always has a great appeal. Visiting this place, you will move from one surprise to another with its captivating experiences.

• Hoi An Ancient Town

The ancient town of Hoi An is a distinctive tourist destination in Quang Nam that you absolutely must visit. Each old house here is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving the cultural and architectural values of the past and keeping them intact to this very day.

Walking along the picturesque town of Hoi An, you will feel as if you are traveling back in time. The colorful ancient architecture, the old street corners, and the familiar images create a peaceful and gentle atmosphere. While here, don’t forget to visit the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau), experience a boat ride on the poetic Hoai River, and immerse yourself in the vibrant space filled with colorful lanterns.

Unlike the dynamic and youthful vibe of Da Nang, often dubbed a city worth living in, Hoi An transports you to a completely contrasting world, differing in both pace of life and architecture. This place will captivate you with its timeless beauty, simplicity, and tranquility.

• Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is a must-visit destination on your journey through Quang Nam. This place is characteristic of the riverine landscape, with its clear waterways and lush, sprawling coconut groves.

Also known as Cam Thanh Coconut Forest or a miniature Mekong Delta in the heart of Hoi An, this lush green destination offers you the chance to explore a vibrant coastal mangrove ecosystem. You can enjoy a round basket boat ride, floating between tall coconut trees, savor delicious coconut-based dishes, and bring home charming souvenirs.

When you travel to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a world filled with joyous laughter. You can dance freely to lively music, immerse yourself in the lush natural surroundings, and experience unique activities that can only be found here.

7. Ho Chi Minh City with Bustling Streets – Best Places to visit in Vietnam

The bustling city is lively and vibrant, especially at night when the sidewalks transform into massive open-air restaurants with feasts of street food stalls and bars. However, Saigon is not just a playground; it also bears deep cultural and historical imprints.

Saigon combines new highlights with old-fashioned charm, creating something uniquely its own and becoming one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. If you have the chance to visit Saigon, be sure to explore its famous landmarks to fully appreciate the beauty of this colorful painting.

• Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is an iconic symbol of Ho Chi Minh City and one of the most famous architectural structures in the city. With its majestic architecture and the highlight of beautiful stained glass windows, this cathedral will surely be a highlight in your journey of exploring Vietnam in Saigon.

Inside, you can admire elaborate murals and wooden statues, create a solemn religious space, or participate in the holy masses at the cathedral. Outside, you can enjoy relaxing moments in the park before Notre Dame Cathedral, savor “bệt” coffee, and watch the pigeons.

With its timeless allure, Notre Dame Cathedral will offer you truly peaceful moments, making it one of the must-visit destinations when you come to Ho Chi Minh City.

• China Town

With traditional markets, a diverse culinary world ranging from delicious duck noodle soup to fresh hu tieu, intricate architectural details, and vibrant lantern-lit alleys, Chinatown in District 5 will surely captivate you with its exquisite cultural blend, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into an authentic Chinese street.

Not only the houses but also spiritual tourist attractions such as temples and shrines are rich in Chinese culture. These structures, many over 100 years old, will undoubtedly provide you with unforgettable experiences. The traditional Chinese medicine shops are also a distinctive feature of Chinatown, with the fragrant aroma of herbs from these stores creating a very pleasant atmosphere.

With its Chinese beauty nestled right in the heart of Saigon, Chinatown is a striking feature that enhances the vibrant picture of the city, inviting you to explore and discover its unique charm.

• Bui Vien Street

As a city that never sleeps, Saigon is teeming with lively neighborhoods that come alive at night. One such street you cannot miss is Bui Vien Street. Especially as night falls, Bui Vien becomes increasingly bustling and crowded with throngs of people.

Here, you’ll be immersed in lively music, engaging conversations, and the clinking of beer glasses from evening until morning. You don’t need to visit upscale bars or pubs; simply sitting on the sidewalk with a few cold beers and some snacks is enough to enjoy a vibrant and energetic evening.

At Bui Vien Street, you’ll feel a surge of energy to immerse yourself in a youthful, dynamic, and vibrant Saigon.

• Independence Palace

The Independence Palace is a must-visit destination when traveling to Ho Chi Minh City. This place is not only an architectural masterpiece but also an important historical symbol of Vietnam.

The Independence Palace displays and preserves valuable images and artifacts from the 19th century, organized into many different themes. Notably, it still retains the original interiors of significant rooms such as the reception room, the cabinet room, etc.

The architectural design of the Independence Palace incorporates Eastern feng shui principles. However, each detail of the building also showcases unique modern elements. Here, you can witness firsthand the artifacts from the old regime preserved over time.

If you’re looking for a place that offers tranquility and comfort while providing enriching experiences, the Independence Palace is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam that helps you experience that.

• War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum, located in Ho Chi Minh City, is a meaningful destination for you if you wish to learn about Vietnam’s history, especially during the war years. This best places to visit in Vietnam houses over 15,000 artifacts, photographs, and valuable documents that recreate historical events and the loss and suffering caused by war.

With the exhibits and collections displayed here, you feel as if you’re stepping on a journey back in time right from the moment you enter, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the devastation of war. Each artifact, photograph, and document carries an emotional story, evoking a profound appreciation for peace in your soul.

The War Remnants Museum is a treasure trove of emotional history, where traces of conflicts and resistance over the centuries are preserved. The relics and artifacts at the museum serve as vivid evidence of the tumultuous and challenging periods in Vietnam’s history.

• Ben Thanh Market

Traveling in Vietnam, particularly in Saigon, offers countless destinations, hundreds of sites to explore, and thousands of activities awaiting your participation. However, if you haven’t visited Ben Thanh Market, one of the most bustling markets and a symbol of the city, your journey remains incomplete.

For shopping enthusiasts, this is an unmissable destination. You can choose from a diverse range of products, from trendy clothes to traditional costumes, souvenirs, etc. It’s also one of the tourist spots in Saigon where you can comfortably enjoy traditional and street food at affordable prices.

In your journey to discover the best places to visit in Vietnam, this is definitely an unmissable destination. Immersing yourself in the everyday atmosphere of the local people will give you a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.

• Cu Chi Tunnels

The historical site of the Cu Chi Tunnels is closely associated with the resistance against the French colonialists during the period from 1946 to 1948. The construction was carried out by the soldiers and residents of Tan Phu Trung commune and Phuoc Vinh An commune to hide and store weapons and military equipment.

Exploring this underground city, you have the opportunity to challenge yourself with thrilling tunnel-crawling activities or try your hand at shooting like real soldiers. Additionally, inside the Cu Chi tunnels, the lives of Vietnamese people during that era are vividly recreated through lifelike models of people and objects, leaving a lasting impression.

Although Cu Chi Tunnels is a historical site, it’s far from dull, offering more than just sightseeing. Here, you’ll experience novel and surprising aspects of Vietnamese culture and history, enriching your understanding in ways beyond mere observation.

8. Mekong Delta with Life on the Water – Best Place to Visit in Vietnam

The Mekong Delta is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam if you want to explore the cultural life of the riverine people in the southwestern region of Vietnam. With its vast waterways, endless rice fields, and abundant fruit orchards, the Mekong Delta promises a unique experience unlike any other.

• Cai Rang Floating Market

The floating markets in the Mekong Delta are a unique cultural feature that cannot be found anywhere else. Among them, the Cai Rang Floating Market stands out. Located in Can Tho City, the “capital” of the Southwest region, this market is considered the busiest and most representative of the distinctive riverine culture of this area.

Visiting the floating market, you’ll be absolutely delighted with the boats and barges floating on the water, loaded with vegetables and goods, forming a bustling market. Especially enjoyable is the experience of sitting on a rocking boat amidst the vast waterways, eating a hot bowl of hu tieu, crab noodle soup, or banh canh, along with a bittersweet coffee. Witnessing the rustic and free-spirited lifestyle and daily activities of boat merchants is definitely something worth trying at least once in your lifetime.

Established over 100 years ago, the Cai Rang Floating Market has retained its unique characteristics. As a result, this market is a fascinating destination for those who love exploration and novelty and who wish to learn about the riverine culture of Southern Vietnam

• Ben Tre

As a serene island nestled at the entrance to the Mekong Delta, Ben Tre beckons you with its charming eco-tourism destinations, boats transporting you to blend into nature, experience the authentic life of the Mekong Delta, and traditional craft villages inhabited by friendly and genuine locals.

With poetic and charming Con Phung, you can immerse yourself in the river, row boats, fish, and ride horses. At the Be Village tourist area, you not only enjoy the fresh air of a rural Mekong Delta village but also learn about the local fish farming industry, experience monkey bridges, swing across the river, swing coconut leaves, and catch fish in canals. At the Ba Ngoi eco-tourism area, you can indulge in picking and savoring durians, mangosteens, rambutans, and milk apples in the garden, listen to the soulful melodies of Don Ca Tai Tu, and relish authentic Mekong Delta dishes like banh xeo with snails and free-range chicken.

Indeed, Ben Tre offers a plethora of fascinating experiences, from historical landmarks to beautiful islets, religious architectural wonders, and more. As one of the 8 best places to visit in Vietnam, choosing Ben Tre as your destination will surely treat you to unforgettable adventures.

• My Tho

When discussing tourism in the Mekong Delta, you cannot overlook My Tho City in Tien Giang Province. With its poetic natural beauty and captivating historical sites, My Tho has become one of the 8 best places to visit in Vietnam and an ideal destination for you to explore the unique charm and culture of the Mekong Delta region.

Visiting My Tho allows you to fully immerse yourself in the riverine lifestyle. This city encompasses all aspects of the Mekong Delta’s vibrant culture. From the bustling Cai Be floating market, one of the largest in the region, where you can witness the daily activities of the locals, to the lush, fruit-laden orchards, pristine islets, and historic sites rich with heroic tales, My Tho offers a comprehensive and captivating experience of life in the Mekong Delta.

Particularly notable is the Dong Tam Snake Farm, where you can observe hundreds of species of snakes along with various other animals. This unique attraction also offers insights into the medicinal value of snake venom and various herbs, providing a fascinating experience.

My Tho is not only an ideal destination for you to seek peace and relaxation, but it also helps you explore the unique cultural and historical values of Vietnam.

It seems that each city in Vietnam has its own unique natural landscape, along with distinctive culture and history. Exploring Vietnam is like painting with a palette of countless experiences and vibrant colors. Based on my travel experiences in Vietnam, I share with you the 08 best places to visit in Vietnam, hoping you will have an unforgettable journey in Vietnam. Enjoy your trips, where exciting experiences await!