The 5 best places to visit in Vietnam for first time travellers.
Wandering through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An felt like authentic Vietnam…
But cruising through Halong Bay is on another level, and the chaos of Hanoi is unmatched!
Vietnam is packed with beauty, energy, and culture, but for first-time visitors, it’s hard to know where to start.
After exploring the country from north to south, I’ve picked my 5 favourite places for first-time travellers, with a mix of cities, coastlines, and cultural gems.
I’ve also included tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to get around…
So you can plan your perfect trip with confidence.
Whether you're travelling solo, on a budget, or just looking for that first taste of Southeast Asia, these destinations will show you the best of what Vietnam has to offer.
Touchdown in Hanoi, let’s go!
Lantern lit Hoi An hits differenty.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.
In no particular order the best places to visit in Vietnam from my personal experience are:
Hanoi.
Ha Long Bay.
Hoi An.
Sapa.
Ho Chi Minh City.
Essential Vietnam Travel Tools.
Before you go, sort out these key essentials, as they’ll make your trip smoother, safer, and more connected:
These are the exact tools I used to make my trip smoother — and avoid tourist traps.
Travel Insurance.
Don’t take risks in a new country.
Insubuy – Ideal for trekking, biking, and activities.
👉 Compare travel insurance options before you fly.
Stay Connected with a Vietnam eSIM.
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👉 Buy a Vietnam eSIM via Airalo.
Book Buses, Trains & Transfers Easily.
Skip scams and queues — use 12Go Asia to book:
Trains (e.g. Hanoi to Da Nang).
Buses (e.g. Siem Reap to HCMC).
Airport shuttles and ferries.
👉 Reserve seats on 12Go Asia.
Vietnamese culture is awesome.
Hanoi.
It might not have the beaches of Da Nang, or the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An…
But Hanoi is the cultural heartbeat of Vietnam, and a must-visit for first-time travellers.
From sipping a cold beer beside the passing trains at the iconic Train Street, to exploring Vietnam’s complex past at Hoa Lo Prison, A Hanoi itinerary delivers a rich mix of culture, history…
And just the right amount of chaos!
Many tourists pass through quickly before heading south, but Hanoi deserves more time.
The city blends old-world charm with buzzing energy… And yes, the traffic is wild and the horns never stop, but that’s all part of the experience.
To get a feel for the culture, spend a day wandering the Old Quarter!
Enjoying the train passing by with a beer.
Exploring authentic Vietnam.
Wandering around a new city with no set plan is one of my favourite ways to find hidden gems — and Hanoi definitely delivered.
Trying egg coffee for the first time at Café Giang was a real moment. The ambience, the friendly staff, and that rich, velvety coffee? Absolutely delightful.
Then I spotted a queue wrapped around the corner at Bánh Mì 25, and I knew I had to try it.
My traditional Vietnamese baguette was so good, I ended up going back several times over the next few days.
Luckily, my hotel was just across the road - dangerously convenient!
Don’t Miss This Hanoi Street Food Tour.
If you’re serious about trying the real flavours of Vietnam, this Hanoi street food tour is a must.
I joined this one through GetYourGuide and loved every minute — we tasted local favourites like pho, bun cha, banh mi, and even a sweet surprise at the end.
Our guide was super knowledgeable, took us to places I’d never have found on my own, and shared cool backstories behind every dish.
👉 Book your Hanoi street food tour here — it’s rated 4.9/5 for a reason!
An authentic corner of Hanoi.
Another quirky spot.
Escaping the chaos… Just for a moment.
Hanoi is a full-on sensory experience, and that’s what makes it so fun.
But every now and then, you need a breather from the madness.
Hoàn Kiếm Lake is the perfect place to escape.
I made a habit of walking around the lake each day, partly to hit my step count, but mostly to enjoy the calm.
Sitting on a bench and watching life go by felt like the perfect contrast to the chaos happening just a few metres away.
A brief peaceful escape.
Top solo-friendly stays in Vietnam:
Hanoi.
• Budget: Little Charm Hostel.
• Mid-Range: La Siesta Hotel.
Hoi An.
• Budget: Hoian Old Town Hostel.
• Mid-Range: Vinh Hung Riverside Resort.
Ho Chi Minh City.
• Budget: The Like Hostel & Cafe.
• Mid-Range: Alagon Hotel & Spa.
Culture is everywhere in the capital
How long do you need in Hanoi?
Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Hanoi…
Any longer, and the non-stop energy might just drive you a little insane!
You can always add an extra day for a popular day trip, or break up your time in the city with a visit to Halong Bay or Ninh Binh on day two.
Hanoi also makes a great base for some of the best Vietnam day trips, which is why, like me, many travellers find themselves returning to the capital more than once on their Vietnam itineraries.
Hanoi by jeep… It’s as crazy as it sounds.
Hanoi: Food, Culture, Sightseeing and Fun – Army Jeep Tour.
If the Vietnamese capital isn’t wild enough on its own, imagine flying through it in a vintage GAZ-69 army jeep.
This is one of the most popular tours in Hanoi, which is reflected by its 4.9/5 rating by over 380 people on Get Your guide.
We headed to many of the famous spots in the city in style.
Big shoutout to Bee, our guide, whose incredible depth of knowledge and joyful storytelling made the morning unforgettable.
👉 Book your ride in the legendary GAZ-69 here — you won’t forget it.
Ha Long Bay.
Ha Long Bay is considered one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for first-time travellers, and it’s easy to see why.
Towering limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and hidden caves make it one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders.
A day trip or overnight cruise ticks every box, offering stunning views, kayaking, island visits, and plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Despite its popularity, Ha Long Bay still feels peaceful once you’re out on the water…
It felt like a different vibe to the other Vietnam highlights.
A picture perfect setting.
A thing of natural beauty.
My experience of Ha Long Bay couldn’t have been any better!
The weather stayed dry, cool, and pleasant, and my tour group had a great vibe, with everyone keen to take it all in.
I’d definitely recommend heading up to the viewpoint when you arrive on the island - the views over the bay are spectacular.
It’s one of those places that genuinely lives up to the hype, peaceful, surreal, and absolutely worth the trip.
Cruising through the bay.
Cruising along the bay.
My favourite moment of this awesome day was when we first arrived next to the famous cliffs.
We all headed up onto the deck for photos and to feel the awesome rush of cruising on Ha Long Bay!
Later in the day, I also really enjoyed the speed boat tour which was much more exhilarating, although probably more dangerous!
If you prefer to travel in style, guests are allowed to use the jacuzzi at the back of the cruise ship.
So that’s certainly an experience… Cruising around Ha Long Bay while enjoying a hot tub!
This one is a very fun day tour to Ha Long Bay:
Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Day Trip - Luxury Cruise & Buffet Lunch.
A true highlight of my Northern Vietnam trip was sailing through the unreal limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay…
And a one-day cruise is the perfect way to take it all in - especially if you’re short on time but still want the full experience.
Our guide kept things running smoothly and had the whole group laughing from start to finish. Great vibes all day.
I’d definitely recommend booking an official tour… The Hanoi pick-up was easy, the boat was spacious, and the buffet lunch hit the spot.
My favourite view of Ha Long Bay.
Is Ninh Binh better than Ha Long Bay?
Both are stunning in their own way, but it depends on what you're after.
Ha Long Bay is iconic, with dramatic limestone cliffs rising from the sea, best experienced on an overnight cruise.
It felt more polished and popular, which was reflected in the crowds.
Ninh Binh, often called ‘Ha Long Bay on land,’ offers a quieter, more local experience with rice paddies, caves, and riverboat rides through misty valleys.
It felt less touristy, and more budget-friendly. It is also easier to explore independently.
If you want a bucket-list photo, go for Ha Long Bay.
If you want peace, scenery, and flexibility, Ninh Binh might just win.
For me, Ha Long Bay edged it — sailing through those towering limestone islands was something I’ll never forget.
👉 This is a top-rated overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay — stunning views, great food, and a peaceful night on the water. Grab your spot here.
A sunny day in Ninh Binh.
The best time to visit Ha Long Bay.
The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is from October to April, when the weather is dry, skies are clear, and sailing conditions are ideal.
Expect cooler temperatures and less humidity, especially from November to February. Avoid the summer months if you can, as they bring heavy rain and reduced visibility.
I visited in February, and although it was overcast at times, it was still dry, warm and very pleasant.
Hoi An.
Hoi An is one of those places that just feels magical the moment you arrive.
It sounds cliché, but honestly… I fell in love with the Ancient Town instantly.
The colourful buildings, hanging lanterns, narrow alleyways, and riverside cafés give the whole town a postcard-perfect charm.
Add in the quirky little shops, hidden courtyards, and street vendors selling everything from fresh mango to handmade crafts… And it’s hard not to be drawn in.
I spent hours just walking around, camera in hand, soaking in every detail. It’s busy, yes — but not overwhelming.
And there’s a calmness in the chaos that really grew on me.
A colourful UNESCO town.
A Unesco World Heritage Site.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why — with over 1,000 historic buildings still standing.
I loved exploring the unique mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architecture, all packed into such a walkable space.
My favourite spot? The Japanese Covered Bridge, which dates back to the 1590s.
It’s small but packed with character — and definitely one of the most photographed places in town.
The whole area feels like a living museum, with ancient merchant houses, temples, and French-colonial facades around every corner.
Grab a Hoi An Ancient Town pass and explore at your own pace… It’s well worth it.
👉 Want a deeper dive into the stories behind the buildings? This top-rated walking tour brings Hoi An’s history to life with a fun local guide.
Ready for a cruise.
Some fun with the locals.
One of my favourite parts of Hoi An was the friendly vibe. It felt like everyone was genuinely happy to see you.
I bumped into a group of girls in traditional dresses and straw hats, all posing for selfies by the riverside, they saw me watching and waved me in for a photo.
They didn’t expect anything from me in return, and even gave me a taste of the local fruit.
I bought them both lunch as a thanks!
Some fun locals.
Of course I had to see the lanterns everywhere.
You can’t visit Hoi An without catching the famous lantern displays…
And yes, they’re as aesthetically pleasing as Instagram makes them look.
At night, the entire Old Town lights up in colour.
I joined the crowds by the river, watching people float paper lanterns on the water for good luck.
It was busy as expected, but definitely worthwhile.
A basket boat tour in the Vietnamese jungle.
Hoi An: Basket Boat Ride in the Coconut Forest.
One of the most fun things I did in Hoi An was the Basket Boat & Coconut Forest Tour — and it was unlike anything else on my trip.
The local guides were brilliant, doing boat-spinning tricks, cracking jokes, and showing us how to fish the old-school way.
It was a fun break from the Old Town crowds and a great way to see a different side of Hoi An.
👉 I booked this exact tour on GetYourGuide — it’s rated 4.8/5 by 1,000+ travellers. Check availability here. Totally worth it!
One of my favourite tours in Vietnam.
Sapa.
If you want the best of rural Vietnam - dramatic landscapes and rich cultural experiences, then heading up to Sapa in the northern mountains is an epic choice.
As one of the best destinations in Vietnam, this misty mountain town has everything travellers are looking for…
Breathtaking rice terraces, challenging treks, and authentic encounters with local people.
I could feel why this northern region has grown in popularity over the last decade, but it still felt peaceful and unspoiled.
Sapa is much quieter than Hanoi or Ha Long Bay, and offers a completely different pace, making it perfect for travellers seeking nature, tradition, and a slower, more soulful experience.
Compared to Vietnam’s major highlights, Sapa still feels beautifully untouched.
Centre of town.
Epic views.
If you’re looking for scenery that truly takes your breath away, Sapa delivers.
The terraced rice fields go on for miles, carved into the mountains like green staircases.
It felt surreal as we made our way down towards the village of Lao Cai.
We stayed at a homestay overlooking Fansipan Mountain, and watching the sunrise from our balcony was something I’ll never forget.
Which was made even more unique by the local chef blasting Vietnamese dance music full blast at
Most of the travellers I met were either out hiking every day or just hanging around the homestays, taking it slow… like I was.
👉 We stayed at Tavan Dragon House, and I’d 100% recommend it. Check availability here.
Spectacular scenery.
A rewarding hike.
My favourite experience in Sapa was the hike through the nearby hill tribe villages.
It was a few muddy hours on foot, but completely worth it. We passed small communities where locals live and work in tough conditions… Always with a smile.
This was exactly the kind of travel moment I’d pictured when planning my Northern Vietnam route.
Water buffalo roamed freely, kids played in the fields, and families cooked over open fires.
There was no phone signal at times, which just made it easier to stay present and take it all in.
👉 Want a local guide to take you deeper into the villages?
An iconic train station in Vietnam.
An iconic town centre
The first thing that stood out when I arrived in Sapa town was its mountain charm.
Between the steep hills, colourful shopfronts, and that famous Sapa sign, it felt like a proper little adventure hub.
Sapa is built for the trekking world!
The clock tower and train station make for iconic photo spots , especially when the clouds roll in and give the whole place a moody vibe.
Wandering the town centre, grabbing a coffee, and watching local life unfold was the perfect way to slow things down between hikes.
Mixing the town centre vibes, with a village homestay is the ideal way to capture Sapa’s true energy.
Arriving into a local village near Sapa.
An awesome homestay near Sapa.
Staying in an authentic homestay in rural Vietnam ticks every box in terms of travel experiences.
After a full day of trekking, sharing an ice-cold beer and a game of UNO with fellow backpackers was the perfect way to unwind.
The local hosts also cooked up some absolutely delicious traditional dishes — and there was more than enough to go around.
This is why I love Vietnam so much!
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
If you want full-on energy, wild traffic, and a deep dive into Vietnam’s recent history then Ho Chi Minh City is your place.
There is a special hectic energy down south, hectic, but very special!
The streets are packed with scooters weaving in every direction, and crossing the road genuinely feels like an extreme sport at first.
In terms of history, culture, and adventure, any Ho Chi Minh City itinerary can easily be filled!
During the day, I took the Cu Chi Tunnels tour - one of the most fascinating experiences I had in Vietnam.
You hear the Vietnamese side of the war, crawl through narrow tunnels used by the Viet Cong, and really get a feel for the resilience of the people.
It was eye-opening and a must-do while you're here.
An incredible river view.
At night, Saigon is on a whole different level.
Bui Vien is the lively backpacker street, which turns into Vietnam’s version of Khao San Road.
Music blasts from every direction, locals and travellers spill into the streets, and the energy is pretty intense.
If you're into nightlife, this is the heart of it. I enjoyed it for a little while, but it is full on!
After soaking up the chaos, I was glad to wander into one of the quieter side streets for some late-night food and a bit of peace
There’s no doubt Saigon is a fast-paced city, but if you need a breather, it’s just as easy to find a chill rooftop bar or a tucked-away café to slow things down.
Saigon Town Hall.
Of course, no trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without hitting a few iconic landmarks.
I checked out Ben Thanh Market for some chaotic-but-fun souvenir browsing, and grabbed bargains for some gym-wear.
The Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office are both highlighted as important sights to see, but as with Hanoi, I was more intrigued by the classic French colonial architecture right in the heart of the city.
It might not have the old-world charm of Hoi An or the dramatic scenery of Sapa, but for culture, history, and unforgettable chaos…
Ho Chi Minh City absolutely delivers.
A moving history tour.
The best history tour in Vietnam?
Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels Tour.
Everyone’s heard of the Vietnam War and the guerrilla warfare tactics used by the Vietnamese… but this tour lets you hear the Vietnamese side of the story first-hand.
I opted for this Cu Chi Tunnels tour as it is rated 4.7/5 from nearly 5000 reviews on Get Your Guide, proving it is an established tour.
And it lived up to the hype!
Walking through the tight, dark tunnels really opened my eyes to the challenges faced just decades ago. It’s an intense, moving, and incredibly well-run experience.
Yes, the traffic in and out of Ho Chi Minh City can be rough (as with any tour here), but the air-conditioned bus and our guide Bao’s brilliant storytelling made it all worthwhile.
Which is my favourite spot in Vietnam?
I’ve highlighted some of the best places to visit in Vietnam above, and while each one left a lasting impression, there’s one that stands out for me
Hoi An is something special!
On my last trip to Vietnam, I spent several days exploring the ancient town by day and night — and it ticked every box.
From sipping egg coffee and people-watching in charming cafés, to drifting through the river on a lantern-lit boat ride at sunset…
Every moment felt truly unique.
If I could only visit one South East Asian destination, Hoi An is a top contender.
Learning about Heritage in Hoi An.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Vietnam.
Planning a trip to Vietnam for the first time comes with a lot of questions, so here are the answers to the ones travellers ask most often.
Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?
Yes, most travellers need a visa. You can easily apply for an official e-visa online via the Vietnam Immigration Portal. Consider using a visa service if you're unsure, as they handle the paperwork for a small fee.
What’s the best time of year to visit Vietnam?
Weather varies by region:
North: Oct–April (cool/dry).
Central: Feb–July (beach season).
South: Dec–April (dry season).
March and November offer the best balance for full-country travel.
Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers?
Vietnam is generally very safe for solo travel. I personally had no issues, however, use the Grab app instead of street taxis, avoid quiet alleys at night, and trust your instincts.
Don’t forget to get travel insurance — it’s essential for solo travellers.
Compare insurance options from Insubuy.
Can I get a SIM or eSIM for Vietnam?
Yes, it’s easy. Buy a Vietnam eSIM before you arrive at Airalo.
Or pick up a local SIM (Viettel or Mobifone) at the airport or convenience stores. I found purchasing before I arrived to be easy, as I just had to activate it in the airport.
Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills near Da Nang.
What’s the best way to get around Vietnam?
Long distances: Domestic flights (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet).
Scenic routes: Trains (Hanoi → Da Nang is stunning).
Short hops: Use 12Go Asia to book buses, trains & transfers ahead of time
Check routes and book with 12Go Asia →
Should I book hotels in advance?
Yes, especially during high season, or for popular spots like Hoi An or Halong Bay.
I use Booking.com and choose hotels with high ratings.
How much does it cost to travel in Vietnam?
Budget: £20–£30/day (hostel dorms, street food, local buses).
Mid-range: £40–£80/day (private rooms, guided tours, domestic flights).
Luxury: £120+/day (4–5 star hotels, private transfers, fine dining).
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.