Top 12 Places To Visit in Vietnam 2026 (Beaches & Nature Included)
- Afrah F
- Sep 10
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 11
While sharing my experiences from each city I explored in Vietnam, I realised I hadn’t yet put together a complete guide to the top 12 places to visit in Vietnam by o for nature and beach lovers.
Although my own Vietnam itinerary didn’t allow me to see every single spot, I’ve included them here because they’re absolute must-visits for anyone planning a trip. From stunning beaches to breathtaking mountains, these Vietnamese destinations deserve a place on your list.
If you’d like more detailed travel tips, check out my earlier posts from my first trip to Vietnam!
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Is Vietnam a Good Place to Visit?
I got asked this question by many people, and the answer is yes. For us as a couple, it was very safe, the people were hospitable, and we barely had food poisoning. If you're a traveller, Vietnam is a great destination to visit. However, if you're only going for the 'tourist experience', you may get disappointed, so travel with an open mind and heart.
Top 12 Places to Visit in Vietnam for Nature & Beaches
Let's get to the list. I have a separate Vietnam itinerary done for 1 day in Saigon, 2 days in Hoi An and 3 days in Hanoi. This list is a combination of places which I've visited and other nature destinations that I couldn't visit, but are equally mesmerising if you're looking for nature and beaches.
Da Lat
Located in the Central Highlands, this cool mountain retreat is one of the best Vietnamese destinations for nature lovers. It's surrounded by pine forests, waterfalls, and vibrant flower gardens. It's about a 7-hour ride away from Ho Chi Minh City, and if you prefer to fly, you can take a quick domestic flight as well.
You can stroll around Xuan Huong Lake, explore local coffee plantations, or hike to Pongour Waterfall. Its French colonial villas add a romantic charm, making Da Lat perfect for couples on a honeymoon or getaway.
Nha Trang
If you're a beach lover, Nha Trang is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. It's famous for its turquoise waters, soft sandy shores, and vibrant marine life, and is only a 3-hour drive from Da Lat and a 5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. This coastal city is home to some of Vietnam’s best diving and snorkelling spots, with coral reefs just a short boat ride away.
Here you can also find hot springs, mud baths, and a lively seaside promenade lined with cafés and seafood restaurants. Whether you’re looking to relax under the sun or add adventure to your Vietnam itinerary, Nha Trang is a must.
Da Nang
Da Nang is one of the top 4 destinations to visit in Vietnam. It's located in the Coastal centre of the country, and is a perfect balance of modern city life with stunning natural attractions. Known for its pristine beaches like My Khe and Non Nuoc, it's also home to the beautiful Marble Mountains and Monkey Mountain. It's just a 1-hour ride from Hoi An, and we recommend spending one night here if you're visiting Hoi An, as the city is more lively and full of locals.
Hoi An
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is perfect for travellers who want to combine culture with natural beauty. It's more than an ancient town. You can cycle through lush countryside, relax at An Bang Beach, or take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. The town’s preserved architecture and bustling night markets make it a highlight on any Vietnam itinerary. For those seeking both history and a tranquil escape, Hoi An is unforgettable. However, two days is more than enough for Hoi An; we recommend visiting Hue or Da Nang on the third day.
Hue
Hue, once Vietnam’s imperial capital, is one of the most historic natural places to visit, resting within a 2-hour drive from Da Nang. Located on the Perfume River, Hue offers stunning river views, lush landscapes, and access to some of Vietnam’s most significant cultural sites. While here, you can explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, and ancient pagodas.
If you're a nature lover, you can take boat rides along the river or cycle through rice fields just outside the city. Though we couldn't make it to Hue, its blend of cultural heritage and natural scenery makes it a must-include stop on any Vietnam itinerary, especially for those seeking a quieter and more reflective travel experience.
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which features emerald waters dotted with thousands of limestone islands and caves, creating one of the world’s most breathtaking seascapes. It's about a 2.30-hour drive from Hanoi, and the cruise is a must-experience. You can choose either the overnight cruise or the day cruise. Though we took the day cruise, we do not recommend it unless you're short on time. There's so much to explore beyond the bay. There are caves and hidden beaches.
Sapa
Sapa in the North of Vietnam gained popularity very recently. Known for its terraced rice fields, cool climate, and ethnic minority cultures, it's the best place for you to trek through lush valleys and picturesque villages in Vietnam. The climate is colder than in the South, and the local markets are a sight to witness. It’s a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike, and is about a 5-hour drive from Hanoi.
Ha Giang
Ha Giang, Vietnam’s northernmost province, is one of the country’s most dramatic natural places to visit for adventure travellers. If you love travelling on motorbikes, the Ha Giang Loop is a must-visit. Not only would you travel for the adrenaline, but you'll also pass through countless limestone peaks, terraced rice fields, and remote ethnic villages. It's about a 5-hour drive from Sapa.
Unlike more crowded destinations, Ha Giang offers an untouched charm and authentic cultural encounters. If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures on your Vietnam itinerary, Ha Giang is the ultimate destination.
Mekong Delta
Often called the “rice bowl” of the country, the Mekong Delta is one fascinating destination that we couldn't visit due to time constraints. This vast network of rivers, canals, and fertile land is best explored by boat. You can experience floating markets, fruit orchards, and traditional villages that showcase authentic Vietnamese rural life. Bird sanctuaries and lush wetlands also attract nature lovers. It's a 3-hour ride from Ho Chi Minh City and is generally included in the Cu Chi Tunnel guided tour.
Hanoi
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is not just about history and street food. It also offers natural places to visit within and around the city. The serene Hoan Kiem Lake and tree-lined boulevards provide a peaceful escape from the buzzing Old Quarter. Just outside Hanoi, nature lovers can explore Ba Vi National Park, Perfume Pagoda, or rice fields in the countryside. Hanoi is also a great starting point for trips to Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang and Ninh Binh, making it an essential stop on your Vietnam itinerary.
Ba Na Hills
Home to Vietnam's iconic Golden Hand Bridge and the French-inspired village, Ba Na Hills is more than just a theme park, but a natural wonder to witness. It's accessible by one of the world's longest cable cars (if you're prone to motion sickness, this might be a challenge as the ride takes almost 20 minutes).
If you're lucky and there's no mist, you can experience views of the coastline, flower gardens, and cool mountain air on top of the hills. It's only a 1-hour drive from Da Nang and is usually a part of the Golden Hand Bridge Tour, which includes transport and a buffet at the Four Seasons restaurant on top of the hills.
Con Dao Islands
The Con Dao Islands are among the most pristine places to visit in Vietnam for beach lovers. Known for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches, they’re a paradise for diving and snorkelling. The islands also hold historical significance, once housing prison camps during the colonial era. Today, Con Dao is a quiet escape from crowds, offering untouched natural beauty and luxury eco-resorts. It's a one-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City or a 5-hour ferry ride.
What is the nicest part to visit in Vietnam?
In terms of Nature and Beaches, it's Ha Long Bay, cause the views are breathtaking. But if you're looking for the Culture and Ambience, I'd say Hoi An does a magnificent job. Especially at night, when the city lights up with ancient lanterns and you feel like you've been transported back to the 1500s.
Things to know before visiting rural areas in Vietnam
Most rural cities are located in southern Vietnam, where most paddy fields and farming activities take place. If you're travelling in rural areas, you'd have to expect;
Mosquitos - Get your necessary vaccinations before you arrive in Vietnam. And bring strong mosquito and insect repellent.
Language - Even locals in Ho Chi Minh City struggle to speak English, so you may have to familiarise yourself with local phrases and gestures.
Clothes - Though the climate is warm to you, wearing moderately would be a good way to blend in with locals.
Cash - Make sure you carry more cash than what you need. Most shops don't use cards, and you'll have trouble finding ATMs.
Guided tours - Travelling solo in the main cities is great, but when it comes to the rural villages, guided tours would help you experience the culture more, as Vietnam as a whole is yet to be a tourist-friendly destination.
Our complete list of Vietnam Travel Tips will help you prepare for your vacation in advance.
Is 12 Days enough in Vietnam?
Yes, if you're only travelling to the main 4 cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Da Nang). But if you want to experience nature and beaches, you may need at least 2 weeks or more in Vietnam.
Da Nang Vs. Ho Chi Minh City
If you want to experience nature and beaches, Da Nang is a better option. My personal preference is Ho Chi Minh City because it's a fun place to be, and the people are amazing. It reminded me of Bangkok.
When is the best time to visit Vietnam's Beaches?
The Southern beaches are at their best from December to April. If you're travelling to the Central Coast, travel between February and August to avoid rain and experience the pristine beaches.
Vietnam Vs Sri Lanka - Which has better Nature and Beaches?
Sri Lanka has better beaches and nature, but both countries are a paradise for nature and beach lovers, each shines in different ways: Vietnam with adventure and scenery, Sri Lanka with serenity, golden sandy beaches and wildlife.
Conclusion
If you're a traveller who enjoys plenty of nature escapades and beach vacations, Vietnam is a must-visit bucket list destination. From mainstream cities like Da Nang and Hoi An to lesser-known tourist destinations like Da Lat, Hue, and Nha Trang, Vietnam is the full package for travellers.
Planning to travel to Vietnam? Ask away your doubts in the comments!
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