For those traveling to Vietnam, you can choose from a wide range of destinations. Ha Giang, Halong Bay, Can Tho, and Hoi An are some of the top destinations. Read on to discover the best places to visit in each of these destinations. There are several other cities to consider as well. For a more individualized experience, visit one of these popular cities and experience the culture, cuisine, and natural beauty of each.
Ha Giang
Ha Giang is the central part of Vietnam. You can trek to local villages to meet ethnic groups. Many of these hamlets are separate from mainstream culture and have carved charms on their doors, which are believed to ward off evil spirits. There are several great places to eat in Ha Giang, such as Thang Co, a popular hotpot of horse meat. It’s definitely worth trying.
The most memorable way to see Ha Giang is by motorbike. The narrow roads are great for motorbikes, but you should know that you’re a good driver! While easyriders are available, motorbikes can be intimidating for the inexperienced driver. Alternatively, a car with a driver is the best option. Regardless of which method you choose, book a car with a driver ahead of time.
Halong Bay
One of the top places in Vietnam to visit is Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This amazing sight is made up of thousands of limestone islands and caves. It is a truly unique and magical place to explore and enjoy a once in a lifetime adventure. You can stay on one of the many luxury hotels overlooking the bay, or you can choose to stay in more affordable accommodation.
A visit to the Quang Ning Museum is a must-do activity while visiting Halong Bay. Visitors can explore the culture and history of the country through the artifacts on display. There are three floors with specific categories of artifacts, such as a whale skeleton and wooden sailboats. Other artifacts in the museum include traditional carvings and war relics.
Can Tho
If you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Can Tho, Vietnam, you’ve come to the right place. With its many temples, this city is sure to please your senses. In the early villages, communal houses were the center of daily life. You can wander through these orchards and taste fresh fruits. The city is also home to the largest cable-stayed bridge in Southeast Asia, the Can Tho Bridge, which links the province of Can Tho with Vinh Long. It’s 15.850 meters long and 23 meters wide and connects the provinces of Vinh Long and Can Tho.
If you’re looking for something a little less traditional, try the grilled rolls, called “Cai Rang.” These delicious Vietnamese skewers are made of fresh pork and served with sliced cucumber, herbs, and fruit. These are also known as “summer rolls,” and are a must-try for anyone visiting the area. You can also find fresh seafood and other Vietnamese delicacies in Can Tho.
Hoi An
If you are considering a trip to Vietnam, you might want to spend some time in Hoi An. The city is beautiful and cheap, but be aware that many locals don’t speak good English. While some hotel and restaurant staff can speak English fluently, the vast majority of Vietnamese people don’t. Even simple words like “how much?” can be difficult to understand for them. To get by, it is helpful to learn a few Vietnamese phrases to use at the Central Market.
The climate in Hoi An can be quite hot or cold, but it’s not unbearably humid. The wet season lasts from October to December. Temperatures average around 66degF. Because the city is located near the sea, flooding is a possibility. Fortunately, the flooding usually clears up in a matter of days. It’s always best to plan your trip around the weather, as typhoons can occur out of season.
Da Lat
If you’re looking for a getaway that is not a total tourist trap, then consider staying in Da Lat. This city has temperate year-round climate, a stark contrast to the tropical climate in other parts of Vietnam. Average temperatures are between 14 degC and 23 degF, with the hottest day reaching 32.0°C and the coolest nighttime temperature falling below zero. This climate also lends itself to agriculture, with a flower and wine-making industry in progress in the town.
Another attraction in Da Lat is the Domain church. This beautiful church was inspired by the Normandie region in France and was built between 1940 and 1943. Its architecture is stunning, and its surroundings are lined with flower gardens and book stores. This church also supports orphans, disabled people, and sisters who are engaged in charitable work. While visiting the church, try to make time to visit the city’s other sights, as Da Lat has a lot to offer.
Mui Ne
Mui Ne is a desert-like landscape with incredible sand dunes. Its weather is ideal, averaging 2,459 hours of sunshine each year and temperatures around 27 degrees. Because of the microclimate, the area receives half as much rainfall as neighboring Phan Thiet. There are several things to do and see in Mui Ne. You can hire a quad bike and go on a sunrise tour for some breathtaking photos.
A visit to Mui Ne isn’t complete without visiting the Fishing Village. The local fishermen spend their days in this traditional village, which is crowded with tourists. Take a stroll along the jetty and buy some fresh seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunrise and sunset over the water. It’s a great way to get a taste of Mui Ne’s lifestyle and learn more about the local way of life.