Top 21 Tourist Places in Vietnam: Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip

Priya and Karan from Dwarka walked into our office on a rainy afternoon with a very organised spreadsheet and a very disorganised plan. Column A listed Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Phu Quoc and something called “the golden bridge.” Column B was blank.

“We have seven days,” Priya said. “Is that enough, or are we being greedy?”

We smiled, because Vietnam does that to first-timers. It is long and narrow, so everything looks close on a map until we measure the distance. This guide is how we sort out that spreadsheet at our desk. We have organised the top 21 tourist places in Vietnam from north to south, with timing tips, honest cautions and a few notes from the kinds of questions our travellers ask before they fly.

Why Vietnam Is on So Many Indian Wishlists

Vietnam welcomed about 746,000 Indian visitors last year, an increase of nearly 49 per cent. The momentum has continued this year. In the first six months, Vietnam received nearly 12.3 million international visitors, and arrivals from India grew by about 45.6 per cent. In the first quarter alone, the Indian market jumped by more than 69 per cent.

What does this mean for us? Vietnam is quickly becoming a mainstream choice, with more direct flights, more Indian-friendly menus and more tour operators who know what we like. It also means popular spots like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An are busy in peak months, so booking early pays off. Tour operators say the main inbound season runs from October to April.

Vietnam Visa for Indians

Indian passport holders need a visa for mainland Vietnam, as India is not on the visa-exemption list. Most of us use the online e-visa:

• Single-entry e-visa: USD 25, valid up to 90 days.
• Multiple-entry e-visa: USD 50, valid up to 90 days.
• Processing: Usually around three working days, though it can take longer in peak months. We apply at least a week before travel.

Phu Quoc Island has a separate visa-free entry for Indians of up to 30 days, but it applies only to the island and comes with conditions. The Indian Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City has advised holding a proper Vietnam visa even for Phu Quoc trips. Rules and fees change, so we re-verify them for every booking. Our visa requirements page is a good starting point.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s weather differs by region, so there is no single “best month”:

• North (Hanoi, Ha Long, Sapa): October to April. Autumn is lovely, while winter can be cold and misty.
• Central (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): Roughly February to August. October to December is the rainy and typhoon season, with occasional flooding in Hoi An.
• South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong, Phu Quoc): Roughly November to April is dry and pleasant.

Northern Vietnam: Hanoi Tourist Places and Beyond

1. Hanoi Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake

The Old Quarter’s narrow streets are named after the trades once practised there, and today they overflow with street food, coffee shops and small shops. Hoan Kiem Lake sits at the centre, with Ngoc Son Temple on a small island.

• Best for: First-timers, food lovers, couples
• Time needed: 1 to 2 days
• Our tip: Try egg coffee and a water puppet show. Hanoi’s famous “Train Street” has restricted access at times, so confirm before going. Cross roads slowly and steadily, as motorbikes will flow around us.

2. Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Complex

The Temple of Literature is Vietnam’s first national university, with peaceful courtyards and old stone steles. Nearby, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Presidential Palace area is an important historic site.

• Best for: Culture lovers, seniors, families
• Time needed: Half a day
• Our tip: The Mausoleum has strict dress rules, limited opening days and an annual maintenance closure, so we check dates before planning.

3. Ha Long Bay Tourist Attractions

A UNESCO site with thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald water. Most visitors take an overnight cruise with kayaking, cave visits and sunset on deck. It is about a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi.

• Best for: Couples, families, groups
• Time needed: 1 to 2 days
• Our tip: Pick a reputable cruise with good safety records. Autumn and spring are clearest, and storms in the hot months can cancel sailings.

4. Cat Ba Island

The largest island in the area, with beaches, jungle trails and a national park. Nearby Lan Ha Bay is quieter than Ha Long and great for kayaking.

• Best for: Adventure seekers, families, friends
• Time needed: 2 days
• Our tip: Choose Lan Ha Bay cruises for fewer crowds. Pack light layers, as sea breezes can be cool.

5. Ninh Binh Tourist Attractions

Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh has rice fields, limestone cliffs and rivers. A boat ride through Trang An or Tam Coc winds through caves, and the Hang Mua viewpoint rewards a climb of stone steps.

• Best for: Couples, families, photographers
• Time needed: Full day or overnight
• Our tip: Visit early to avoid midday heat. The viewpoint stairs are steep, so wear good shoes. Tipping the boat rowers is customary.

6. Sapa Tourist Places

A hill town in the northwest with layered rice terraces, ethnic minority villages and misty mountain scenery. Fansipan, often called the “Roof of Indochina,” can be reached by cable car.

• Best for: Nature lovers, trekkers, couples
• Time needed: 2 to 3 days
• Our tip: September to October brings golden terraces, while winter is cold and foggy. Pack warm layers and be ready for changing weather.

7. Ha Giang Loop

A scenic loop of mountain passes, deep valleys and karst plateaus in Vietnam’s far north, usually done by motorbike over three to four days. Ma Pi Leng Pass is the highlight.

• Best for: Adventure seekers, experienced riders, friends
• Time needed: 3 to 4 days
• Our tip: Roads are demanding. We recommend a guided ride or a car with a driver, and checking that insurance covers the activity. Local permits are required.

Central Vietnam: Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An

8. Hue Historical Places

The former imperial capital of Vietnam’s last dynasty, Hue has a walled Imperial City, royal tombs and the beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda beside the Perfume River. It is quieter and more reflective than the big cities.

• Best for: History lovers, seniors, culture seekers
• Time needed: 1 to 2 days
• Our tip: Visit tombs in the morning to avoid heat. Wear modest clothing and comfortable shoes.

9. Da Nang Tourist Places

A modern coastal city with My Khe Beach, the Marble Mountains, the Lady Buddha statue and the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water on weekend nights.

• Best for: Families, couples, beach lovers
• Time needed: 2 to 3 days
• Our tip: Check the Dragon Bridge show timings, as they usually happen on weekend evenings. Beach conditions can be rough in rainy season.

10. Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Vietnam

A mountain resort reached by a very long cable car, famous for the Golden Bridge held up by giant stone hands. The hill also has a French-style village, gardens and amusement areas.

• Best for: Families, couples, photographers
• Time needed: Half to full day
• Our tip: Go early to beat crowds and morning fog. Carry a light jacket, as it is cooler at the top.

11. Hoi An Ancient Town

A UNESCO-listed trading town with yellow houses, a Japanese covered bridge and silk lanterns that glow every evening. It is also known for tailor shops and cooking classes. Many Buddhist vegetarian restaurants make it friendly for vegetarians.

• Best for: Couples, families, shoppers
• Time needed: 2 days
• Our tip: If ordering tailored clothes, get measured on the first day so fittings are done in time. The old town can flood in the rainy season, so check weather.

12. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

A UNESCO park with huge caves, underground rivers and jungle. Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave suit most visitors, while the giant Son Doong cave is for dedicated adventurers with permits.

• Best for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, families with older kids
• Time needed: 2 days
• Our tip: Cave access depends on water levels, so keep flexibility in the plan.

13. Hai Van Pass

A winding coastal road between Da Nang and Hue with sweeping sea views. It is best seen on a private car trip with photo stops.

• Best for: Couples, photographers, road trippers
• Time needed: Half day
• Our tip: Start early to avoid fog and afternoon haze.

Central Highlands and South Coast

14. Nha Trang

A lively beach city with island boat trips, snorkelling, Cham towers and a long sandy waterfront.

• Best for: Families, friends, beach lovers
• Time needed: 2 to 3 days
• Our tip: Pick licensed boat operators and keep valuables secure on busy beaches.

15. Da Lat

A cool hill city with flower gardens, pine forests, waterfalls and French-era villas. The climate is a refreshing change from the coast.

• Best for: Honeymooners, couples, families
• Time needed: 2 days
• Our tip: Pack a light jacket for evenings. Roads can be winding, so carry motion sickness tablets if needed.

16. Mui Ne Tourist Attractions

Mui Ne is known for its red and white sand dunes, a colourful fishing village and the Fairy Stream. Strong winds also make it a kitesurfing destination.

• Best for: Adventure seekers, friends, photographers
• Time needed: 1 to 2 days
• Our tip: Visit dunes at sunrise or late afternoon, as midday heat is intense. Jeep tours should be booked with licensed operators.

Southern Vietnam

17. Ho Chi Minh City Tourist Attractions

Vietnam’s biggest city mixes French colonial buildings with modern towers. Highlights include Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, Ben Thanh Market, the Central Post Office, Independence Palace and the War Remnants Museum.

• Best for: First-timers, city lovers, shoppers
• Time needed: 2 days
• Our tip: The War Remnants Museum is sobering and includes graphic images, so we advise parents to decide about children. Use ride-hailing apps for safe, fair fares.

18. Cu Chi Tunnels

A network of underground tunnels used during wartime, now open as a historic site. Visitors can see small sections, learn about the history and try crawling through a short tunnel.

• Best for: History lovers, older teens and adults
• Time needed: Half day
• Our tip: Tunnels are narrow and hot, so skip crawling if claustrophobic. Gunshots from the nearby shooting range can be loud.

19. Mekong Delta Vietnam

A green maze of rivers, orchards and floating markets. Boat rides, coconut candy workshops and village visits give a relaxed look at local life.

• Best for: Families, seniors, slow travellers
• Time needed: Day trip or 2 days
• Our tip: For floating markets in Can Tho, go very early in the morning. Carry a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.

20. Phu Quoc Island Places to Visit

Vietnam’s largest island has white-sand beaches, a night market, fishing villages, a safari park and a long sea cable car. The dry season is roughly November to April.

• Best for: Honeymooners, families, relaxation seekers
• Time needed: 3 days
• Our tip: Stay on the west coast for sunsets. Even with the island’s visa-free rule, we recommend holding a proper Vietnam visa and carrying original documents.

21. Con Dao Islands

A quiet island group with calm beaches, clear water and a historic past. Sea turtles nest here in the warmer months, and the vibe is far removed from busy resorts.

• Best for: Couples, nature lovers, quiet seekers
• Time needed: 2 to 3 days
• Our tip: Flights are limited, so book early. Keep expectations simple, since facilities are more modest.

Vietnam Itinerary for 7 Days (Hanoi, Da Nang, Phu Quoc)

• Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, evening in the Old Quarter.
• Day 2: Day trip or overnight cruise to Ha Long Bay.
• Day 3: Fly to Da Nang, evening in Hoi An.
• Day 4: Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge, then Da Nang beach.
• Day 5: Fly to Phu Quoc and relax.
• Day 6: Phu Quoc island sights and sunset.
• Day 7: Departure.

This Hanoi Da Nang Phu Quoc itinerary uses two domestic flights, so we plan buffer time for delays.

Vietnam Tour Packages from India: Prices and Options

One of our current listings is our Beautiful Vietnam with Overnight Cruise package, starting from Rs. 70,999 for 5 days and 4 nights. Other prices below are estimated market starting prices per person. Final prices depend on season, hotel category and group size. We can also quote vietnam tour packages with flights from Delhi.

Browse our current vietnam tour packages from india and vietnam holiday packages from delhi, or ask us to customise a trip around the places that matter most to us.

As a general guide for Vietnam trip cost from India, a mid-range 7-day trip often falls between Rs. 80,000 and Rs. 1,30,000 per person including flights. Visa fees, insurance and personal spending are extra.

Which Vietnam Trip Fits Which Traveller?

• Family tours: Hanoi, Ha Long cruise, Ba Na Hills, Hoi An and Phu Quoc beaches. Choose fewer hotel changes for young children.
• Honeymoon tours: Ha Long overnight cruise, Hoi An lantern evenings, Da Lat and Phu Quoc. These are among the most popular Vietnam honeymoon destinations for Indian couples.
• Adventure tours: Ha Giang Loop, Phong Nha caves, Sapa trekking, Mui Ne kitesurfing and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay.
• Seniors and parents: Hue, Hoi An, Mekong Delta and comfortable private transport with fewer flights.
• Friends’ groups: Hanoi nightlife, Cat Ba, Nha Trang and Da Nang beaches.
• Luxury seekers: Premium cruises, beach resorts and private transfers.

Practical Tips Before We Fly

• Weather: Check the region and month. Central Vietnam can be rainy from October to December.
• Food: Vietnamese food uses fish sauce widely. Vegetarians should say “an chay,” which means vegetarian, and look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants.
• Money: Carry some local currency for markets and small shops. Agree prices before rides.
• Safety: Keep phones and bags secure in crowded areas, as snatch theft happens in busy cities.
• Respect: Dress modestly at temples and pagodas.
• Documents: Print e-visa approval and carry original documents, especially for Phu Quoc.

Why We Are the Best Travel Agency in Delhi for Vietnam

When families ask us for the best travel agency in delhi, we point to over four decades of planning trips, solving problems quickly and staying reachable when plans change.

• On-ground team support
• Customisable, flexible packages
• Quality with safety at every step
• Visa and air ticketing help under one roof
• 24/7 customer support

Ready to Plan Our Vietnam Story?

Tell us who is travelling, how many days we have and what a perfect Vietnam day looks like. We will turn the spreadsheet into a plan.

Book your tour with us today
📱 Call or WhatsApp: +91 98999 21559
📩 Email: holidays@travelpaa.com
📍 Visit us: 3rd Floor, Vaishali Enclave, 13, Pitampura, Delhi, 110034
🌍 Explore packages: travelpaa.com