1. Hoi An
Apart from its rich architectural heritage, Hoi An preserves a vast intangible cultural legacy. The daily life of its residents, with traditional customs, religious practices, folk arts, cultural festivals, and picturesque landscapes, makes Hoi An a magnetic destination for travelers from all over the world.
The best time to visit Hoi An is between February and April, when the weather is mild and rainfall is minimal. It's best to avoid the summer months as the heat can be unbearable. The rainy season from October to November also has its drawbacks, with high humidity and frequent heavy rains. Visiting Hoi An on the 14th day of the lunar month is a must to experience the charming ancient town night, where red lanterns light up the streets, creating a distinctive atmosphere of the town during festivals.
How to get to Hoi An:
- By Air: Hoi An is located in Quang Nam, but the nearest airport is in Da Nang, about 30km away. Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar, and Vietjet Air offer flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to Da Nang. Booking tickets 3 to 6 months in advance is recommended for the best prices.
- Other transportation options: By car or train: Direct trains from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang are available (North-South route). Prices range from 400,000 to 1,200,000 VND depending on the class. The train ride takes around 14 to 20 hours. Bus tickets cost around 400,000 – 500,000 VND. Bus companies like Hoang Long, Hlink, Mai Linh, and Thuan Thao operate these routes, with travel times ranging from 18 to 20 hours from Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang.
Top attractions in Hoi An:
- The Japanese Bridge: This iconic bridge, built in the late 16th century, is the heart of Hoi An. The bridge houses a small shrine dedicated to Huyen Thien Dai De, the god of the bridge. It has a unique roof and intricate carvings, blending architectural styles from Vietnam, China, Japan, and even the West.
- Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: Legend has it that the Assembly Hall was once a small temple dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess who protects seafarers. Over time, the hall was expanded with contributions from the Chinese community in Hoi An. Today, it stands as a beautiful testament to Hoi An's vibrant history.
- Chaozhou Assembly Hall: Built in 1845 by the Chaozhou Chinese community, this hall is dedicated to Phuc Ba, the god of the sea. It features intricate wood carvings and beautifully decorated ceramics, making it one of Hoi An’s most stunning landmarks.

2. Tam Dao
Tam Dao is located about 80km from Hanoi and was discovered by the French and developed in the late 19th century. During this time, numerous structures were built, such as villas, dance floors, swimming pools, playgrounds, and hotels, alongside bustling restaurants. However, with the passage of time, many of these establishments no longer stand.
The best time to visit Tam Dao: If you're aiming for a cloud-hunting adventure, the best time is from late November to January when the weather turns cold, and thick fog envelopes the area. However, during this period and in March and April, you should avoid visiting waterfalls due to the heavy mist, which can make paths slippery. Stay cautious!
How to get to Tam Dao:
- By car or motorcycle: Take the North Thang Long - Noi Bai route towards Cầu Thăng Long, then go for about 25 km to the intersection of National Highway 2 and AH 4. Turn left onto National Highway 2 for about 200m, then follow National Highway Hanoi – Lao Cai for 25 km. When you reach Tam Duong Roundabout in Vinh Phuc Province, continue for another 20 km along National Highway 2B to reach Tam Dao's center.
- By bus: You can take bus 58 from Long Bien or bus 07 from Cau Giay to Me Linh Plaza. Afterward, transfer to bus 01 to Vinh Yen Bus Station. From there, take bus 07 from Vinh Yen to Tay Thien. Ask the driver to stop at the nearest point to Tam Dao.
- By coach: You can board a bus from My Dinh Bus Station to Vinh Yen, Yen Bai, or Viet Tri. After reaching Vinh Yen, take a taxi or motorbike to Tam Dao.
Must-see attractions in Tam Dao:
- Tam Dao Cloud Bridge: Known as an outdoor studio, the Cloud Bridge is a popular spot to check in when visiting Tam Dao. Standing here, you can enjoy the tranquil beauty of Tam Dao, free from the bustle of the world below. The best times for a visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the mist is thick, making the scenery look like it's straight out of a dream.
- Wind Café Tam Dao: A unique café that should be on your must-visit list in Tam Dao. It's called Wind Café because it is perched on a cliff with no roof, offering a cool breeze from the mountain below, making it the perfect place to relax away from the heat.
- Tam Dao Stone Church: Built in 1906 on the way to Mount Thien Nhi, this church was initially a simple thatched house created by the French. In 1937, it was reconstructed into a solid stone building with Gothic architectural features.


3. Da Lat
At an altitude of 1500m above sea level, the weather in Da Lat is cool and pleasant, earning it the title of the "City of Eternal Spring." This charming city is the perfect retreat for all kinds of travelers. Some unique aspects of this beautiful city include: no traffic lights, no police stationed at major intersections, no cycle rickshaws for tourists, no air conditioning, no late-night activities, and no Lam Dong newspapers available at newsstands.
The best time to visit Da Lat: If you want to see the blossoming peach blossoms around Xuan Huong Lake, the best time is from February to April during spring. During this period, the purple bougainvillea on the streets also bloom, creating a beautiful sight as they catch the spring breeze. In the late months of the year, from October to December, Da Lat is covered in mist, and you can enjoy the beautiful wild sunflowers and delicate mimosa flowers. Every season offers a new bloom, with stunning flowers like white mustard fields, sunflower gardens, roses, and reed grass fields – Da Lat always has something new to offer.
How to get to Da Lat:
- If you're looking to save time, flying is the best option. Da Lat has the Lien Khuong Airport, located 30 km south of the city center. You can fly with Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, or Jetstar to enjoy a relaxing trip to this dreamy city.
- For those who want to save money or enjoy the scenic journey, a bus ride is a great choice. However, this will take more time. Popular departure points include Hanoi, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Motorcycling is also a fun and adventurous option for young travelers who prefer the experience of road trips. The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat is about 300 km, which takes around 7-10 hours by bike. Though it requires more time and energy, the journey offers the opportunity to discover beautiful landscapes along the way.
Must-visit attractions in Da Lat:
- Pongour Waterfall: Located in Duc Trong district, 50 km from Da Lat, also known as Thien Thai Waterfall. Pongour is a seven-tier waterfall that rises nearly 40m high and spans over 100m, surrounded by lush, diverse vegetation.
- Xuan Huong Lake: A symbol of Da Lat, located in the city center and shaped like a crescent. The lake is always bustling with visitors strolling around in the early morning and evening. There are plenty of services for renting tandem bikes, pedal boats, and enjoying coffee by the lake.
- Da Lat Railway Station: A must-see for tourists, holding great cultural significance for Da Lat and its people. Built in 1932 and completed six years later, the station no longer operates for trains but is now a popular tourist spot on the route from the city to Trai Mat.


4. Nha Trang
Recognized as one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Nha Trang is a tranquil city nestled by the sea, located in the heart of Khanh Hoa Province, also known as the "Land of Incense and Yến Sea." This "Pearl of the East" has a unique charm that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Best time to visit Nha Trang: The peak tourist season is from March to September, making it the ideal time for a trip to Nha Trang. However, note that during this period, hotels often run out of rooms, so it's a good idea to book your accommodation in advance to avoid wasting time looking for a place to stay.
How to get to Nha Trang:
- By Air: Several airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar, and Vietjet Air, offer flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang to Cam Ranh Airport.
- By Train: There are also train routes from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang to Nha Trang, with ticket prices ranging from 250,000 to 400,000 VND one-way. You can book tickets with the respective train companies for assistance with seating arrangements.
- By Bus: There are numerous bus services to Nha Trang, which you can book online or purchase tickets directly at bus stations.
Must-see attractions in Nha Trang:
- Vinpearl Land Nha Trang: Located on the coast of one of the 29 most beautiful bays in the world, Vinpearl Land is an international-grade entertainment paradise. It has also been awarded by the Vietnam Tourism Association as the most attractive amusement park in Vietnam.
- Oceanographic Institute: This institute, established in 1923 by the French and later handed over to Vietnam in 1952, houses the largest collection of marine specimens in the country. It boasts over 20,000 specimens of more than 4,000 marine species, along with many other living marine creatures.
- Dam Market: The market got its name from the large pond that once existed on the land where it stands. Today, it serves as a commercial hub, offering a variety of goods like shoes, clothes, household items, and fresh produce.


5. Da Nang
Da Nang, often called the most livable city in Vietnam, is now one of the top destinations for tourists. Dynamic, modern, and vibrant, it boasts famous landmarks, top-notch entertainment spots, and a myriad of delicious local dishes.
How to get to Da Nang:
- By Air: Look for discounted flights to Da Nang with airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific, or Vietjet Air. If you catch a sale or a 0 VND ticket promotion, you can easily find round-trip tickets for 0–1,000,000 VND.
- By Train: This journey takes over 10 hours. It’s recommended to book a sleeper seat and travel at night so you can sleep during the trip. Ticket prices range from 400,000 to 1,200,000 VND depending on the type of seat.
- By Bus: Several premium sleeper bus services run from North to South, such as Hoang Long, Phuong Trang, and Mai Linh. The ticket prices range from 250,000 to 500,000 VND one way.
Top activities in Da Nang:
- Ba Na Hills: Known as a paradise on earth, this scenic spot never fails to captivate visitors. It’s often compared to Sa Pa or Da Lat of Central Vietnam.
- Asia Park: Experience dozens of thrilling activities, some of which are the first of their kind in Vietnam, or visit the park's impressive replicas of iconic structures from around the world.
- Art in Paradise Da Nang: The first 3D art museum in Da Nang, covering 4000 square meters with 130 artworks, divided into 9 themed areas.
- Thang Tai Hot Spring Park: A stunning natural landscape located in the Ba Na Nui Chua ecological tourism area, where you can relax in unique hot spring streams.


6. Hanoi
Hanoi—what is it that draws so many people to fall in love with it? Let’s explore everything you need to know for an independent travel experience in Hanoi with this detailed guide to find your answers!
Best time to visit Hanoi: The ideal time to visit Hanoi is in the fall, particularly between August and October. The most favorable months are September and October when the rainy season has ended, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are moderate. The cool breeze and pleasant weather make it the perfect time for an unforgettable exploration of the city.
How to get to Hanoi:
- If you’re coming from far away and have a larger budget, flying is the most convenient way to reach Hanoi. Alternatively, taking the train is a budget-friendly option, allowing you to enjoy other sights along the way.
- If you’re traveling from nearby provinces, buses or motorbikes are great choices. Many people prefer traveling by motorbike, as it’s not only affordable but also an exciting way to explore the area.
Popular attractions in Hanoi:
- Hoan Kiem Lake: A famous landmark located at the heart of Hanoi, connecting the old quarter with French-colonial streets like Bao Khanh, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and Tràng Thi. This central area is easily accessible by both personal and public transportation.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-visit in Hanoi, located on Hung Vuong Street. The mausoleum houses the body of President Ho Chi Minh. Visitors also often stop by Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence in 1945.
- Tran Quoc Pagoda: Situated on a small peninsula on the east side of West Lake, this 1,500-year-old pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi. It was recently named one of the world’s 16 most beautiful pagodas by Daily Mail (UK). The pagoda holds significant cultural and historical value, attracting both pilgrims and tourists.


7. Saigon
If Hanoi is known for its thousand-year-old history with a peaceful, slow-paced charm, then Saigon is the vibrant city of movement, energy, and bustling life. It's a place where modernity blends with traces of history and a hint of European influence right in the heart of Vietnam.
Best time to visit Saigon: The weather in Saigon is hot year-round, but not as intense as in the north or as humid as in central Vietnam. The average temperature is 27°C, and during the peak summer heat, it can reach over 40°C. There are two distinct seasons here: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. If you visit during the rainy season, always bring an umbrella, as rain showers can come unexpectedly.
Public transportation for traveling around Saigon: You can easily get tickets to Saigon through travel agencies, bus stations, or even online booking platforms. It's important to check the prices in advance, as ticket prices can vary depending on the time of booking.
Top tourist attractions in Saigon:
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: A must-see landmark in Saigon, the Notre-Dame Cathedral stands out with its European architectural style and Gothic-Roman influences. Located in District 1, it is surrounded by modern skyscrapers and bustling streets. This cathedral, with the largest bells in Vietnam, is a symbol of Saigon and a pride of the city’s people.
- The Saigon River Ferry Terminal (Bến Nhà Rồng): Also known as the Ho Chi Minh Museum, this is where President Ho Chi Minh embarked on his journey to find a path for national independence in 1911. The distinctive architecture includes a dragon-shaped roof with an emblem featuring a horse’s head and an anchor.
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A lively pedestrian street, especially vibrant during festivals and weekends. It’s lined with upscale hotels, shopping centers, and historical buildings with a European architectural influence.


8. Vung Tau
Located just a 3-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, with a 20km stretch of coastline, Vung Tau is one of the favorite destinations in the South of Vietnam. This peninsula offers stunning views of the East Sea, both at sunrise and sunset. Besides its natural beauty, Vung Tau also holds deep cultural and historical significance.
How to get to Vung Tau:
- By motorbike: Option 1: Follow National Highway 1, pass the Dong Nai Bridge, and reach a traffic circle (Vung Tau intersection). Turn right onto National Highway 51, and after about 100km, you’ll reach Vung Tau. Option 2: From Ho Chi Minh City, take the Cat Lai Ferry (District 2) to Nhon Trach (Dong Nai), then continue on National Highway 51, which is 20km shorter.
- If you’re driving a car, you can opt for the Long Thanh – Dong Nai expressway, which shortens the travel time to about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Main attractions in Vung Tau:
- Back Beach (Bai Sau): Known for its beautiful and calm waters, Back Beach is the most popular spot for tourists. It's lined with hotels and restaurants, making it a great place to stay. The nearby Thuy Van Street, similar to Nha Trang’s Tran Phu Street, has a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury.
- Front Beach (Bai Truoc): This is the city center of Vung Tau, with many high-rise buildings and bustling shopping areas. While the beach here is more polluted due to high population density, it offers beautiful sunset views and is ideal for evening strolls.
- Long Hai: Located about 110km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, Long Hai is a favorite retreat with pristine beaches, clear waters, and golden sands. Long Hai also offers fresh seafood at affordable prices, and visitors can relax in seaside resorts. The Binh Chau Hot Springs, located along the Long Hai tourist route, is another popular stop.

9. Moc Chau
Moc Chau is home to endless green tea hills, expansive highlands brimming with vitality, fields of white cabbage that seem to stretch forever, and the rich aroma of corn wine filling the air. These elements come together to create a captivating destination for anyone who visits. To fully experience the charm of this northern paradise, let’s take a closer look at Mytour’s self-guided travel guide to Moc Chau!
Best time to visit Moc Chau: Every season, Moc Chau wears a different set of clothes. From expansive green meadows, endless white cabbage fields, to pink blossoms of peach flowers, and the pure white splendor of plum flowers, Moc Chau has something to offer year-round. The best time to visit is around the Lunar New Year period (late January to February), when the peach and plum blossoms bloom, creating a picturesque scene in every corner of the area.
How to get to Moc Chau:
- By motorbike: From Hanoi, take Thang Long Avenue, then turn left onto Xuan Mai following National Road 6 towards Hoa Binh. As you approach the center of Hoa Binh, follow the signs to Son La. Continue up the Cun Pass, and head straight on National Road 6 until you reach Cao Phong. Don’t forget to stop at Thung Khe to capture the stunning views along the way.
- By bus: Buses run frequently from My Dinh Bus Station from 9 AM to 10 PM. Ticket prices range from 120k to 150k VND per person. Reputable bus companies include Hai Van, Hai Nam, Ket Doan, Ngoc Thuan, and Tuan Hien.
Must-visit places in Moc Chau:
- Ngũ Động Bản Ôn: A captivating cave complex in Moc Chau, Ngũ Động Bản Ôn is known for its untouched beauty. The five caves, each representing one of the Five Elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth), are adorned with stunning stalactites, formed over thousands of years. This natural wonder has become a popular destination for travelers.
- Bản Áng Pine Forest: Located in Dong Sang commune, Moc Chau, Bản Áng offers a cool, fresh climate and breathtaking natural beauty. The Bản Áng Lake mirrors the changing seasons, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can walk around the lake, explore the pine forest, or camp out and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Couples can rent tandem bikes to watch the sunset or pedal boats to enjoy the cool breeze.
- Dải Yếm Waterfall: Situated in Mường Sang commune, Dải Yếm Waterfall is one of Moc Chau’s most dramatic natural landmarks. The waterfall is at its most magnificent from April to September, when the water flow is at its peak. The waterfall stretches 70 meters wide, cascading in a beautiful misty display, offering a perfect blend of power and serenity. From a distance, it resembles a traditional “yếm,” a Vietnamese garment, connecting the heavens and earth.

10. Phu Yen
Phu Yen Travel, with its golden flowers and green grass, has become an increasingly popular destination due to its peaceful and picturesque natural landscapes. Get ready to explore some of the most beautiful travel spots in Phu Yen with Mytour's travel guide!
Best time to visit Phu Yen: Phu Yen has two distinct seasons. The rainy season lasts from September to December. Therefore, the best time to visit is from January to August when the weather is sunny. You can also visit during local festivals, where you can experience the traditional Chòi singing – a national intangible cultural heritage.
How to get to Phu Yen: You can reach Phu Yen by train, airplane, or bus.
- By bus: Tickets can be purchased at the Eastern Bus Station in Saigon. Prices range from 180,000 to 300,000 VND per ticket.
- By train: From Hanoi, take the Hanoi – Phu Yen train. To save time, take the SE3 train that departs at 10 PM and arrives at Phu Yen station around 8:30 AM the following day.
- By airplane: Flights are available from Hanoi or Saigon to Tuy Hoa. Ticket prices range from 1 to 1.5 million VND. The airport is 10 km from the city center, so you will need to take a motorbike taxi or a regular taxi to continue your journey.
Must-visit places in Phu Yen:
- Dong Cam Dam: Located in the west of Phu Hoa district, Dong Cam Dam spans 688 meters and features over 2,500 structures, including two water channels for irrigation that serve the vast Tuy Hoa rice fields. It is a significant infrastructure project that blends both aesthetic and technical value, providing historical, economic, and beautiful scenic value.
- Vung Ro Bay: A small bay located in Hoa Xuan Nam commune, Dong Hoa district, Phu Yen, right next to the Deo Ca mountain range. Vung Ro Bay marks the natural boundary between Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa. From the top of Deo Ca pass, visitors are treated to stunning views of this bay, where green mountains meet the turquoise sea. The best time to visit is during summer, when the seafood is abundant, and the bay's raw and pristine beauty is at its peak.
- Mang Lang Church: Built in 1892, Mang Lang Church is the oldest church in Phu Yen and one of the oldest in Vietnam. This church has become a popular tourist attraction and was once a place where Bishop Alexandre de Rhodes (Father Dac Lo) taught. It is also home to Vietnam's first book written in the national script.

