Updated top 6 must-visit cities in Vietnam

Tips for Traveling to Vietnam

The best city in Vietnam to visit in 2024: Which city should be on your travel bucket list?
If you are looking for a destination with stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture, Vietnam is the perfect choice for you. This country has many amazing cities that cater to different tastes and interests, from ancient heritage towns to modern metropolises. 

According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the country received more than 11 million international visitors in the first eleven months of 2023, a 47.7% increase from December 2022 and 3.8 times higher than the same period last year. With such impressive numbers, Vietnam is definitely a place worth visiting. But which city should you choose in 2024? Let us help you decide by introducing you to the best cities in Vietnam to visit for everyone. 

1. Ha Long: Nature's Masterpiece and Coastal Gem Of Vietnam

If you are looking for the best city in Vietnam to visit, then Ha Long is the perfect destination for you. Ha Long is located in Quang Ninh Province, about 160 kilometers away from Hanoi. It is famous for its stunning Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features over 1,600 limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

Ha Long - The best city in Vietnam to visit with family

Ha Long - The best city in Vietnam to visit with family

Halong Bay is a natural wonder that has been formed over millions of years by the erosion of the sea and the wind. The islands have various shapes and sizes, creating a spectacular scenery that will take your breath away. 

Some of the islands have caves, grottoes, and lakes that you can explore and admire, such as Surprised Cave, Luon Cave, Dau Go Cave, Thien Cung Cave, etc. 

Besides, travelers can also learn about the legend of the bay, which says that a dragon descended from the sky and spat out jewels that turned into the islands to protect the country from invaders.

Halong Bay is not only a place of natural beauty but also a place of cultural heritage

As you can see, Halong Bay is not only a place of natural beauty but also a place of cultural heritage. Humans have inhabited the bay since prehistoric times, and you can find traces of their ancient cultures and civilizations in the archaeological sites, museums, and markets around the bay. 

Furthermore, travelers can experience the modern life of the local fishermen who live in the floating villages and depend on the bay for their livelihood. They are friendly and hospitable, and they will welcome you to their homes and share their stories and traditions with you.

Cua Van - floating villages in Halong Bay

Cua Van - floating villages in Halong Bay

Moreover, this stunning city offers an adventure paradise with lots of fun activities. You can do things like kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, biking, scuba diving, and parasailing. 

What's cool is that you get to pick how you cruise – on a traditional Halong Bay boat, a modern yacht, or a fancy cruise ship. 

Each gives you a different view of the bay. There are also many beaches to chill on, feel the sun, and enjoy the sea breeze. At night, the stars and bioluminescent plankton make the bay magical. So, Halong Bay is more than just a daytime delight. It's incredible at night, too!

What's cool is that you get to pick how you cruise – on a modern yacht or a luxury cruise ship. 

What's cool is that you get to pick how you cruise – on a modern yacht or a luxury cruise ship. 

Ha Long is a city that has developed rapidly in recent years thanks to its tourism potential. The city has a modern transportation system that makes it easy to access from Hanoi and other places. You can take a bus, a train, or a car, or you can fly to the nearby Cat Bi International Airport or Van Don International Airport. 

In terms of Halong Bay weather, the best time to visit Halong Bay is from October to December, when the weather is dry and cool and the visibility is good. However, you can see the bay all year round, as each season has its own charm and beauty.

Read more The Ultimate Halong Bay Cruise Overnight Itinerary: Top Tips and Must-See Sights

2. Ha Noi: The capital of culture, history, and charm in Vietnam

Hanoi is the capital and second-largest city of Vietnam, with a long and fascinating history that goes back to the third century BCE. The city is a significant tourist attraction in Vietnam, with its well-preserved French colonial buildings, religious sites, historical monuments, and museums.

Ha Noi is a significant tourist attraction - the best city in Vietnam to visit

Ha Noi is a significant tourist attraction - the best city in Vietnam to visit

Take a stroll around the serene Hoàn Kiếm Lake, where you can admire the Turtle Tower and the Ngọc Sơn Temple. Dive into the lively atmosphere of the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets filled with charming shops, cozy cafes, tasty restaurants, and friendly street vendors.

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When it comes to food, Hanoi is a culinary paradise. Indulge in local delights like phở, bún chả, bánh mì, and don't miss out on the unique egg coffee. And when the sun sets, experience the vibrant nightlife – from water puppet shows to live music, or simply join the locals for a refreshing glass of bia hơi, the city's affordable and delightful beer.

When it comes to food, Hanoi is a culinary paradise.

When it comes to food, Hanoi is a culinary paradise.

In Hanoi, every corner is a new adventure, and every dish tells a story. This city will capture your heart with its captivating culture, rich history, and undeniable charm. It's not just the best city in Vietnam to visit, it's an experience that will stay with you forever.

3. Ho Chi Minh: The city of energy, innovation, and diversity in Vietnam

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh, also known as Saigon – Vietnam's biggest and most bustling city. This is home to about 9.3 million people as of 2023. Situated in the southeast, it's nestled by the Saigon River and close to the Mekong Delta. HCM is the heart of Vietnam, buzzing with life and drawing millions of visitors each year.

Ho Chi Minh - one of the best cities in Vietnam to visit

Ho Chi Minh - one of the best cities in Vietnam to visit

This must-visit city boasts the Ho Chi Minh Botanical Garden and Zoo, the country's oldest, where rare plants and animals reside in a tranquil setting. For a glimpse into history, you can delve into the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by the Viet Cong during the war. Indulge your taste buds in the diverse cuisine of Ho Chi Minh, from the iconic banh mi to the comforting pho and flavorful com tam. 

Ho Chi Minh is a city that never sleeps, brimming with energy, innovation, and diversity. With its dynamic atmosphere, this city promises an unforgettable experience that you'll always find intriguing and exciting.

4. Hue: The City of Culture, History, and Romance in Vietnam

Located in central Vietnam, Hue is a city with around 500,000 folks calling it home in 2023. It sits snugly by the Perfume River and hugs the coast of the East Sea. Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, it proudly housed the Nguyen Dynasty, the country's final royal ruler. 

Many travelers confirmed that Hue is the best city in Vietnam to visit in 2023

Many travelers confirmed that Hue is the best city in Vietnam to visit in 2023

Now, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hue boasts loads of historical and cultural gems that shine a light on Vietnam's rich past. From royal tales to cultural wonders, this city is a living testament to the grandeur of Vietnamese civilization.

With a history stretching over a thousand years, Hue is a city that's seen a lot. To soak up its stories, you should head to the Imperial City. It's a mix of palaces, temples, and monuments that once housed the Nguyen emperors. 

Explore further Best Places To Visit In Vietnam With Family In 2024: Adventures Await

From royal tales to cultural wonders, Hue is a living testament to the grandeur of Vietnamese civilization.

From royal tales to cultural wonders, Hue is a living testament to the grandeur of Vietnamese civilization.

Besides, Hue is a beautiful city with lots of cool stuff for visitors. The Perfume River is a lovely spot to chill, and it gets its name from the sweet-smelling flowers that drop into the water in the fall. And make sure to try tasty local food like bun bo hue, com hen, and banh beo. 

5. Da Nang

Discover the charms of Da Nang, the best city in Vietnam to visit. It's got loads of cool stuff for visitors. And if you're into chilling on the beach, soaking up culture, or having an adventure, Da Nang's got you covered. It's the place to be!

This wonderful place is a lively coastal city known for its beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, perfect for water sports enthusiasts. While it has temples and government buildings, it's the modern bridges that have really put Da Nang on the world travel map.

Ba Na Hills Golden Bridge - one of the best delightful hot spots in Da Nang 

Ba Na Hills Golden Bridge - one of the best delightful hot spots in Da Nang 

Travelers should discover delightful hot spots in Da Nang, like the Marble Mountains, Ba Na Hills, My Khe Beach, and Hoi An. There are a bunch of luxurious resorts, fancy malls, and lively clubs for your entertainment and accommodation needs.

6. Sapa

Sapa, a key tourism hub in northwest Vietnam, boasts breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural diversity, and various ethnic groups. It's a perfect combo of nature and culture, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. 

The highlight? Conquering Mount Fansipan, the Roof of Indochina, offers an incredible adventure. At the summit, explorers find not strange creatures but a stunning world of clouds, mountain ranges, green fields, and a serene pagoda for worship.

Sapa is a key tourism hub in northwest Vietnam.

Sapa is a key tourism hub in northwest Vietnam.

Nestled among mountains and surrounded by lush green terraced rice fields, Sapa provides a refreshing retreat. Strolling through the cool weather in Sapa town is incredibly comfortable and relaxing. This charming town is a definite delight for every tourist to explore.

Exploring the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in North Vietnam

Must-try Activities when Visiting Vietnam

Vietnam is a country with a rich culture, history, and natural beauty. It offers a variety of experiences for travelers who want to explore its diverse landscapes, cuisine, and people. Here are some of the must-try activities when visiting the best city in Vietnam:

1. Cruise the bay

A trip to Halong Bay is at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists, and for good reason. From the majestic limestone karsts, the largest in the world, to the floating villages, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this UNESCO World Heritage. 

To truly see it all, the best way to explore Halong Bay is by ship, and the best Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay cruises have quickly made Paradise Vietnam one of the most in-demand cruise operators in the region.

 Paradise Vietnam’s Cruises is one of the most in-demand cruise operators in Ha Long.

 Paradise Vietnam’s Cruises is one of the most in-demand cruise operators in Ha Long.

  • Recommended Itinerary: Paradise Vietnam, 3-day 2-night Halong Bay or 3-day 2-night and Lan Ha.
  • Departures: Year-round 
  • All-Star Amenities: Spacious cabins with private balconies, luxury bedding and toiletries, kayaking and biking activities, cooking classes and tai chi sessions,  four dining options, spa and wellness center,  sunset party, and live music.
  • Luxury cruise options: Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, and Paradise Peak cover the Ha Long route, while Paradise Grand sails through Lan Ha Bay.

With a luxury heritage that dates back to 2008, it’s no wonder Paradise Vietnam found its way to Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. The cruise operator with a keen focus on elegance, comfort and culture, has 4 exquisite ships – Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, Paradise Peak, and Paradise Grand – sailing the waters that surround the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each of the ships features a spacious cabin, private balcony, luxury bedding and toiletries, spa and wellness center, as well as a dining option with panoramic views so you never miss a thing. 

Each of the cruises features a spacious cabin, private balcony, luxury bedding, toiletries and more.

Each of the cruises features a spacious cabin, private balcony, luxury bedding, toiletries and more.

A cruise team of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay experts join each voyage, hosting cooking classes and tai chi sessions about the areas the ships visit and guiding passengers on outings like kayaking trips around the limestone karsts and biking tours through the Viet Hai Village. 

Find more information about Halong Bay River Cruise

Guests learn about the cultural heritage of local communities and focus binoculars to spot monkeys, birds, fish, and more. The Paradise Elegance cruise offers both a 2-day-1-night and a 3-day-2-night itinerary through Halong Bay, while the Paradise Grand ventures through Lan Ha Bay. These itineraries cover the highlights of both bays, including Titov Island, Luon Cave, Tien Ong Cave, Cua Van Fishing Village, Dark and Bright Cave, and Viet Hai Fishing Village.

2. Participating in water sports

Vietnam has a long coastline that stretches over 3,000 kilometers, as well as many rivers, lakes, and islands. This makes it an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts.

In Vietnam's clear waters, you can have fun with various water sports like surfing, kite surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving. Top-notch locations for these activities include Halong Bay, Nha Trang, and Da Nang. Additionally, travelers can opt for a cruise tour to discover the picturesque landscapes and marine wonders of Vietnam.

3. Hiking and Rock Climbing

If you are looking for some physical challenges and outdoor adventures, you can try hiking and rock climbing in Vietnam. Vietnam has many mountains, hills, and forests that offer stunning views and trails for hikers and climbers of all levels. 

Whether you fancy scaling the limestone cliffs of Cat Ba Island or exploring the karst formations in Ha Long Bay, there's something for everyone. For hiking enthusiasts, the Fansipan Peak awaits, standing as the tallest mountain in Indochina. Alternatively, you can embark on a trek to the Ban Gioc waterfall, which happens to be the largest waterfall in Vietnam. 

4. Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Vietnam is an excellent place for adventure and outdoor fun. There's a lot to try, like zip-lining, bungee jumping, paragliding, rafting, cycling, and motorbiking. You can feel the excitement of zip-lining over the Chay River or sand sliding in Quang Binh.

Moreover, travelers can try paragliding above the Muong Hoa Valley or rafting down the Da River. If you prefer cycling, explore the Ho Chi Minh Trail or take a motorbike ride across the Hai Van Pass. 

Tips for Tourists When Visiting Vietnam

  • Sort out your visa

Check the visa requirements and procedures on the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department and apply for an e-visa, a visa on arrival, or a visa in advance.

  • Don’t underestimate the size of the country

Vietnam is a long and narrow country, and traveling between regions can take a lot of time and money. Therefore, you should plan your itinerary carefully and choose the destinations that suit your interests and budget. 

  • Be smart about your itinerary

Our country has a lot to offer, from the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay and Sapa, to the charming towns of Hoi An and Hue, to the vibrant cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However, you don’t have to see everything in one trip, as that can be exhausting and overwhelming. Focus on the places that interest you the most, and spend enough time to enjoy them fully. 

  • Prepare for the weather

Vietnam has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild and dry winters. However, the weather can vary a lot depending on the region and the season. 

Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you travel, and pack accordingly. Besides, you should bring a raincoat or an umbrella, as well as sunscreen and insect repellent, to protect yourself from the elements.

  • Respect the culture and etiquette

Vietnam is a country with a rich and diverse culture, influenced by various ethnic groups, religions, and historical periods. You should respect the local customs and traditions and avoid any actions that might offend or upset the Vietnamese people. 

Some of the basic etiquette rules are:

  • Take your shoes off when you enter someone’s house or a temple.
  • Wear modest clothing and remove your shoes and hat when visiting temples.
  • Greet someone with a handshake or a slight bow, and address them by their title and surname.
  • Use chopsticks or a spoon when eating, and avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in your bowl.
  • Be polite and friendly when bargaining, and avoid using your index finger to point at something.

So, that's it! Where will you go? Vietnam has many incredible cities to explore in 2024, each with its unique charm. Pick one that suits your taste, or visit a few to see the diverse beauty of the country. For a smooth trip, check out Paradise Vietnam, a leading luxury cruise and hotel firm that can help you plan your amazing trip. Just visit their website or reach out via email or phone. Wishing you a fantastic and memorable journey!

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