Top 12 Most Fascinating Destinations for the New Year's Holiday

Known as Vietnam's second "Da Lat", Sapa always maintains its unique charm. As the year ends and the weather cools, Sapa becomes the perfect getaway. The winter chill of Northern Vietnam can be fully experienced here, and if you're lucky, you may even witness the enchanting snowfall. Additionally, with the development of various services, travel to Sapa has become easier. A trip to Sapa during the New Year's holiday offers new, exciting experiences. The iconic Stone Church of Sapa, built during French colonial times, is a must-see. It's a popular spot for tourists, especially in winter when snow falls, creating a European-like atmosphere. The majestic Fansipan Mountain, standing at 3,143 meters, is a unique destination for adventurers. For those not keen on climbing, the cable car system provides a safe and easy way to reach the summit. The landscape, with its endless terraced fields, flowing streams, and blooming flower fields, makes Cat Cat Village one of the most beautiful villages in Northern Vietnam. If you're traveling to Sapa during the New Year's holiday in 2021, don't miss this spot!

Located to the west of Hoa Binh, bordering Moc Chau in Son La and Quan Hoa in Thanh Hoa, Mai Chau Valley attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from both near and far each year. It offers an opportunity to immerse in nature and explore the lifestyle of the Thai ethnic group. While it doesn’t boast as many tourist spots as its neighbor Moc Chau, Mai Chau still draws many travelers and adventurers with its picturesque beauty, fresh air, diverse culture, and unique cuisine. Visiting Mai Chau at the end of December or early January allows you to witness the stunning sight of peach and plum blossoms turning the sky of the Northwest white. Standing on the White Stone Pass to admire the valley from above and explore mysterious caves is a must-do experience. In addition, you can visit traditional villages, savor delicious local specialties, and easily travel by car or motorbike to Mai Chau. Popular sites include Thung Khe Pass, Lac Village, Pom Coong Village, Mo Luong Cave, and Chieu Cave on the Pù Khà limestone mountain range. The name Chieu Cave comes from the way sunlight streams into the cave in the late afternoon, illuminating the stalactites and creating a stunning, fairy-tale-like atmosphere.

The first must-visit destination for the 2021 New Year's holiday in Hanoi is the Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street. Every year, on New Year's Eve, this area hosts a grand Countdown Party, attracting thousands of attendees. The Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street is also one of the most popular spots for checking in and celebrating the New Year in the capital. During the holiday, the entire area is filled with the pink of peach blossoms and the yellow of apricot flowers. Additionally, Royal City is the number one commercial and entertainment center in Hanoi, making it one of the top New Year's attractions. Visiting this area during the holiday season, you can enjoy shopping, bowling, 4D cinemas, and plenty of other fun activities. For an exciting New Year's trip in Hanoi, the Bao Son Paradise is a fantastic destination. Located just 10 kilometers from the city center, it’s a modern entertainment park with a variety of unique attractions for all ages. With its large area and a wide range of activities, Bao Son Paradise promises a lively and unforgettable New Year experience. Here, you can visit traditional craft villages, a butterfly museum, orchid gardens, and enjoy captivating performances like water puppetry and sea lion shows. Don’t miss out on exploring famous Hanoi landmarks such as Bat Trang Ceramic Village and other iconic spots during the New Year holiday.

When visiting Da Nang during the New Year holiday, don't miss out on popular destinations like Son Tra Peninsula, Linh Ung Pagoda, Ba Na Hills, Hai Van Pass, Marble Mountains, the Cham Sculpture Museum, Dragon Bridge, Han River Bridge at night, and beaches such as My Khe, Pham Van Dong, My An, and Nguyen Tat Thanh. Da Nang is not only famous for its stunning scenery but also as the culinary capital of Central Vietnam. Here, you can savor unique dishes like banh xeo, bun bo Hue, cao lau, mi Quang, and grilled pork spring rolls. Moreover, Da Nang is conveniently located for trips to Hue or Hoi An. A must-visit during your New Year trip is Ba Na Hills, located around 29 km southwest of the city center. In the early 20th century, Ba Na was one of the largest and most popular resort areas in Indochina, primarily serving the French. You can still see traces of French architecture here. Da Nang at night is truly magical, with sparkling lights and colorful bridges crossing the scenic Han River. One of the most anticipated events in Da Nang is the Dragon Bridge’s rotation, allowing boats to pass through at night. The romantic Love Bridge and the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue are also great spots for couples to take memorable photos during their New Year's trip to Da Nang.

Da Lat is considered the best vacation destination in the southern region of Vietnam, offering a perfect combination of climate, scenic beauty, transport, and welcoming locals. Often called the 'City of Mist,' 'City of Flowers,' or 'City Without Traffic Lights,' Da Lat boasts a pleasant year-round climate. At the end of the year, the white Bauhinia flowers bloom, followed by the pink Mai Anh Dao blossoms in January and February, which color the city with a vibrant hue. You can easily find these flowers around Tuyen Lam Lake, Xuan Huong Lake, Tran Phu Street, and Than Tho Lake. No need to travel all the way to the North or Japan to capture those perfect flower shots – Da Lat offers you the perfect backdrop for stunning photos with Bauhinia and Mai Anh Dao flowers!

Another popular spot is the Infinity Lake - Bali Heaven Gate located within the Clay Tunnel Tourist Area. This unique and fascinating spot is favored by visitors for its beautiful photo opportunities. Surrounded by mountains and pristine nature, the Infinity Lake and the Bali Heaven Gate replica are perfect for your travel photos. Popular among the youth travel community, you can also experience picking persimmons and snapping photos with the iconic Bubble House. This trendy spot is especially attractive during autumn and the persimmon harvest season, bringing you breathtaking views that will make your photos look straight out of a fantasy world. The Tomato Garden in Da Lat offers you an amazing location for unique photos, almost as if you are in a professional studio. These places in Da Lat are sure to make your trip an unforgettable and meaningful one.

If you enjoy beach destinations but are hesitant about the cold winter weather in the north, Phu Quoc is an ideal getaway. The period around New Year’s Day is perfect for visiting this beautiful island. It’s the dry season in the southern region, with pleasant weather, sunny skies, clean air, calm seas, and gentle breezes. The conditions are just right for all kinds of outdoor activities and sightseeing. For those from the northern regions, this is the perfect time to escape the cold and enjoy some warmth and sunshine in Phu Quoc. Since this is not the peak tourist season, travel and accommodation costs are affordable, and you can enjoy a relaxing trip without the usual crowds.

During your New Year trip to Phu Quoc, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the island’s pristine nature and visit historical landmarks like the Phu Quoc Prison, where you’ll learn about the sacrifices made for the country’s peace and independence. The traditional fishing village of Ham Ninh offers a peaceful glimpse into the lives of local fishermen. If you love nature, Phu Quoc National Park is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes. You can also explore local industries, such as the pearl farms, pepper plantations, fish sauce production, and sim wine distilleries. With so many attractions, Phu Quoc is sure to captivate your heart.

The Trang An Eco-tourism Complex, located in the eastern part of Ninh Binh province, covers nearly 2,000 hectares and is divided into five main areas: the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital preservation zone, the central area, the cave system, the tourism services area, and the spiritual Bai Dinh mountain area. The region is home to 47 historical sites, featuring limestone caves, valleys, and an extensive system of underground rivers that create a mystical, picturesque atmosphere. Bai Dinh, with hundreds of statues, is one of the largest and most statue-filled temples in Vietnam. Often referred to as the 'second Halong Bay of Vietnam', Trang An offers serene, crystal-clear lakes, vibrant aquatic life, and spectacular mountain views.

As you row a boat along the lakes, you can admire the underwater world, from playful schools of fish to lush green algae. Occasionally, wild ducks swim by, and on sunny days, monkeys emerge from caves to bask in the warmth. Additionally, Trang An is blessed with ancient, mysterious caves that add to its enchanting allure. Located just half an hour from Trang An, Bai Dinh Temple is considered the largest in northern Vietnam. The temple complex is expansive, with massive columns weighing tons, made from precious timber brought from Laos. Thousands of Buddha statues line the path, creating an imposing and mystical atmosphere throughout the temple grounds.

Located about 80km from Hanoi, Tam Dao is often referred to as the 'Da Lat of the North' by adventure travelers. It is an ideal destination for the Lunar New Year holiday in 2020. With an altitude of around 900 meters above sea level, the temperature in Tam Dao is much cooler than the northern plains. During the spring, the entire town is blanketed in mist, surrounded by lush mountains and greenery. Recently, Tam Dao has become a popular spot for cloud watching. If you visit in the spring, don't miss the mesmerizing sight of fluffy clouds covering the hillsides and houses, creating a scene that feels like a mystical paradise.

In addition to relaxing in the fresh, cool atmosphere, visitors can explore famous landmarks such as the Heaven’s Gate, Silver Falls, Cloud Stairs, and the Old Church. The area is also known for its delicious local cuisine, such as stir-fried su su (a local vegetable) with garlic or boiled su su. A special treat is the Tam Dao hill chicken, prepared in various ways such as salt-roasted, stewed, or clay-baked, which are incredibly flavorful and tender. Don't forget to try the grilled beef with ants' eggs for a unique culinary experience you won't forget!

One of the most popular destinations in Quang Ninh, especially during the Lunar New Year, is Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Year after year, especially in recent years, the number of international visitors to Ha Long Bay during the holiday season has increased. Many tourists choose to take Ha Long Bay boat tours to explore and admire the unique natural beauty of this spectacular bay. Ha Long's appeal extends beyond its UNESCO recognition—nature has bestowed countless other beautiful spots on this area, including modern entertainment complexes. A few days in Ha Long may not be enough to fully experience all that it has to offer. The city is constantly changing, growing more beautiful with more discoveries awaiting, or simply enjoy lying on the golden sandy beaches soaking up the sun.

Aside from Ha Long Bay, visitors to Quang Ninh can also visit Yen Tu Mountain. Situated in the northeastern mountains, Yen Tu's peak features the Dong Pagoda at an altitude of 1,068 meters. Historically, Yen Tu has been famous for its breathtaking views and was recognized as one of the great mountains of Vietnam. The mountain became even more renowned when the Tran dynasty emperors chose it as a retreat for meditation and the development of Buddhism, founding the Truc Lam Zen sect. The mountain is dotted with pagodas, shrines, and towers built by successive dynasties, all the way from the base to the summit. The natural beauty of Yen Tu combines majestic mountains with the ancient, solemn architecture of its sacred sites, while the towering trees along the paths provide cool shade, making the journey up the mountain both spiritual and refreshing.

Tuyen Quang is a mountainous province located over 200 km north of Hanoi. The city is most famous for its Mid-Autumn Festival, the largest street festival in Vietnam. Tuyen Quang has played a crucial role in the development of the country and is home to a diverse cultural heritage. The province is inhabited by numerous ethnic minority groups from the northern highlands, contributing to its rich cultural mosaic. Currently, Tuyen Quang boasts 123 historical and cultural landmarks, and 215 cultural heritage sites recognized by the local government. These attractions have become key drivers for the province's tourism growth in recent years. Tuyen Quang has made significant efforts to promote its tourism potential.

The region offers ample opportunities for travelers, such as the vast Na Hang hydroelectric reservoir, the majestic Mo Waterfall, and the historic Tan Trao banyan tree, Hồng Thái communal house, and Nà Lừa hut, all of which commemorate important historical events. Visiting Tuyen Quang in the winter, you'll be treated to the sweet, golden citrus fruits of Ham Yen, paired with rural eco-tourism experiences. Alternatively, you can head to Minh Huong to taste the renowned mountain duck, or enjoy the cool mountain air while paddling on the Na Hang reservoir and grilling fish by the water's edge. With its pristine landscapes and warm, welcoming people, Tuyen Quang promises visitors an unforgettable experience.

In Vietnam, you can also witness the stunning beauty of cherry blossoms as they bloom, painting the landscape with their vibrant pink hues every spring. Dien Bien is one of the places where these cherry blossoms have become an iconic sight. The cherry blossom island of Muong Phang, with its picturesque and serene spring scenery, is a must-see destination. Located about 30 km from Dien Bien Phu city, this island is hidden within the peaceful Muong Phang region. Visiting during the end of the year, you’ll be able to admire the full bloom of these vibrant cherry blossoms lining the tranquil waters of the scenic Pa Khoang Lake. Though the trees here are relatively young (planted less than 10 years ago), they’ve already become a unique feature of this historic area.

As you drift along the calm waters of Pa Khoang Lake, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking sight of hundreds of cherry blossom trees in full bloom, their petals glowing with a sweet, romantic charm. The small island is completely covered in a blanket of these gorgeous flowers, leaving visitors in awe at the sight. In addition to the cherry blossoms, the island is home to a variety of other flowers—wild blooms and those typical of temperate regions—that continue to add beauty throughout the year. Amidst the mountains of Northwest Vietnam, the cherry blossom island in Muong Phang not only captivates the people of Vietnam but also leaves Japanese visitors speechless, overwhelmed by its beauty. Each time the cherry blossoms bloom, travelers from the lowlands flock to Muong Phang, to admire the blossoms, immerse themselves in the poetic scenery, and enjoy the peace of being close to nature.

When you visit Ha Giang, you not only have the chance to conquer majestic mountain roads and enjoy the cool weather of the highlands, but you can also savor local specialties like horse meat hotpot, poisonous yam porridge, or corn wine. You can also visit the markets to gain insight into the life of the local people. From November to February, Ha Giang enters its winter slumber. The cold weather and thick fog make the natural scenery here seem dreamlike, like a mystical painting. During the New Year period, the wildflowers of Ha Giang start to bloom, with fields of buckwheat flowers stretching endlessly, along with fields of wild daisies and orange chrysanthemums that begin to bloom and captivate visitors’ hearts.

Ha Giang tourism during New Year will certainly leave you with unforgettable memories of the season of blooming flowers and the crisp air of winter. Ha Giang is an ideal destination for both nature lovers and those interested in cultural tourism. With jagged rocky mountain terrain, winding roads along cliffs, clouds drifting low overhead, and rivers flowing through rugged rocks, visitors will be amazed by the enchanting beauty where mountains, forests, and rivers seamlessly blend together. Some famous sights you should experience during your New Year visit to Ha Giang include the Lung Cu Flagpole, Ma Pi Leng Pass, Quan Ba Heaven's Gate, and the ancient town of Dong Van, along with the area's renowned flower gardens.