Top 5 best weekend destinations for October

Dã Quỳ is one of the most beautiful wildflowers found throughout the mountains of the Central Highlands and the northern regions of Vietnam. However, it is in Da Lat where its beauty truly shines. Here, visitors can experience the stunning golden fields stretching along roadsides or across famous mountain slopes such as Voi Mountain and Lang Biang. As October arrives, the Dã Quỳ flowers bloom, warming the cool air of Da Lat and adding an ethereal, dreamy charm to the city. Seeing the golden flowers in full bloom is a breathtaking sight that cannot be matched anywhere else. Da Lat is beautiful all year round, but the allure of autumn, with the vibrant Dã Quỳ flowers, is undoubtedly its most captivating season. When the rain subsides, October awakens Da Lat's Dã Quỳ, filling the air with its bright yellow petals, illuminating the majestic highlands. The Dã Quỳ season has become a signature feature of Da Lat’s autumn, bringing life and color to the cool highlands, drawing visitors from near and far.

Every October, the soft pinkish hue of buckwheat flowers slowly blooms across the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang. This is also the busiest time of the year here, as preparations for the Buckwheat Flower Festival begin, featuring many exciting activities. Nature in Ha Giang has never been more beautiful, with the mountains and forests bathed in the hues of autumn. Known for its breathtaking views year-round, Ha Giang in October is famously dubbed the "Buckwheat Flower Paradise." The pinkish flowers blanket the land, creating a picturesque, idyllic scene. It's also the perfect time for couples to visit Ha Giang for wedding photos. You can immerse yourself in local culture by renting traditional ethnic costumes for as little as 15,000 to 20,000 VND. Driving along winding mountain roads and enjoying the lifestyle of the people here makes for an unforgettable experience.

In October, Ha Giang not only dazzles with the pink of buckwheat flowers but also shines with the golden hues of ripening rice fields. Immersing yourself in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, is truly a refreshing escape for young adventurers. If you’re unsure where to go, Ha Giang is a perfect suggestion for you.

One of the best travel destinations this October is Hanoi, a bustling city with a thriving tourism scene. Over the years, the number of visitors choosing Hanoi as their stop has grown exponentially, reaching thousands each year. With its stunning natural landscapes, sacred temples, unique architecture, and modern entertainment hubs, Hanoi offers everything you need for the perfect trip. Come October, Hanoi dresses in the warm hues of autumn, captivating the hearts of all who visit.

"Hanoi in autumn! The golden yellow of the frangipani trees, the red leaves of the banyan tree lie side by side with ancient houses with brown tiled roofs. Hanoi in autumn - autumn in Hanoi. The sweet scent of milk flowers fills the air. The fresh green of young rice smells as it passes through the sidewalk of milk flowers."

The hallmark of Hanoi’s autumn is its cool, refreshing weather, with gentle breezes adding to the charm. Streets are lined with vendors selling chrysanthemums and sunflowers, capturing the essence of a soft, romantic autumn. Along many streets, golden leaves blanket the pavement, creating a beautiful carpet beneath your feet. One of the most popular spots for photos is Phan Dinh Phung Street and Kim Ma Street, where the golden leaves fall, creating a magical atmosphere. In Hanoi, you’ll find a wide variety of hotels and homestays with different price ranges, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.

It’s no wonder that Hanoi’s autumn has inspired countless poems and songs. The weather is perfect—neither too hot nor too cold—with golden sunlight illuminating every street and corner. No visit to Hanoi is complete without a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, inhaling the sweet fragrance of milk flowers along Quang Trung Street, or savoring ripe soursop and Vong village green rice cakes.

Last year, Phu Quoc was ranked among the top 5 autumn destinations in Asia-Pacific, as voted by international travelers. It's no surprise, as even the most seasoned travelers are captivated by the island's breathtaking beauty during the autumn season. Just the name Phu Quoc evokes images of clear blue seas, white sands, and golden sunshine. Beyond its pristine beaches, the island, also known as the 'Emerald Isle,' boasts a rich ecosystem that captivates visitors. For photography enthusiasts, autumn in Phu Quoc is a perfect choice, as the island offers dreamy yet unspoiled landscapes that seem almost surreal.

No matter how many times you visit Phu Quoc, Bai Sao beach remains the ideal destination. It’s ranked among the most beautiful beaches on the planet, and still retains its mysterious, untouched charm. During autumn, Bai Sao is quiet and peaceful, with gentle waves caressing the shore of its pristine white sand. Other beaches like Bai Dai and Bai Khen are equally stunning. The sound of waves crashing, the breeze, and the peaceful atmosphere create a sense of tranquility. Visiting Phu Quoc in autumn not only lets you enjoy the magnificent beauty of the sea but also helps you escape the stress and worries of daily life.

In addition to the vast sea, Phu Quoc in autumn is also home to lush green forests and beautiful streams. One such gem is Suoi Tranh, a captivating waterfall that comes alive in autumn. The water cascades down from high above, echoing through the surrounding forest. To reach the waterfall, you’ll walk along a path lined with colorful flowers, while the sounds of birds singing greet you along the way. The scenic beauty of this waterfall, with its natural charm, perfectly matches the peaceful surroundings. Phu Quoc is beautiful year-round, but it’s best to avoid visiting during the summer heat when crowds swell and prices increase.

In October, the Mekong Delta is a paradise for travelers seeking tranquility and nature’s beauty. The region is known for its mild climate, lush fruit orchards, and stunning landscapes that remain untouched by modern life. One of the most sought-after spots is the Trà Sư cajuput forest, where visitors can glide through narrow waterways in boats, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of the forest, with green lily pads covering the surface of the water.

During the flooding season, the Mekong Delta comes alive with an abundance of tropical fruits. Visitors can explore fruit orchards like those in Cái Bè, Vĩnh Kim (Tiền Giang), Cái Mơn (Bến Tre), and Mỹ Khánh (Cần Thơ). For those from central or northern Vietnam, the sight of sprawling landscapes and bountiful orchards is an unforgettable experience. The soulful melodies of the locals singing traditional folk tunes complete the experience, making the Mekong Delta a must-visit destination for those traveling in October.

Drifting along the canals in small boats, picking fresh, juicy fruits directly from the trees, and tasting the authentic flavors of the region are truly unmissable experiences. The scenery here is especially fresh, cool, and romantic during the flood season. Don’t miss out on the local specialties, such as hot pot made with linh fish and wild flowers, lotus leaf rice, roasted field mice, and grilled snakehead fish – all of which will give you a taste of the unique local culture.