TOWNS & CITIES IN VIETNAM

Vietnam Cities: Reviews list of cities & towns in Vietnam to visit in 2025

Top cities in Vietnam tourists should visit

Hanoi, Vietnam capital city with picturesque pagodas

Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and is often referred to as the ‘Paris of the Orient’. Filled with lakes, tree lined boulevards and French designed villas, this busy city cuts a distinctly different style of life to that in Ho Chi Minh City.

In addition to being one of the largest cities in Vietnam, Hanoi must see sight including the Old Quarter, comprised of trading streets where traditional and modern goods are traded from centuries old “tunnel houses” and narrow streets are abuzz with colour and activity.

Ho Chi Minh City: largest city in Vietnam with a population of 8.4 million.

The former capital of what was South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City as it is officially known, or Saigon, the former name, is at the forefront of the modernisation and expansion that Vietnam is undergoing.

By Vietnamese standards, Saigon is a modern city in Vietnam thriving on the fast paced lifestyle that comes with the commercial gains. Despite this, there are still many historical sights and places to learn about Vietnam war and locations to see and visit in and around Saigon including the Mekong Delta to the south and the famous Cu Chi Tunnels to the west.

Venturing beyond the Ho Chi Minh City, tourists discover the lush Mekong Delta, where you can navigate through its intricate waterways by boat. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience local lifestyle on the water. Further afield in Tay Ninh, you can delve into the teachings of the Cao Dai Religion and visit the vibrant Cao Dai Great Temple.

Danang, a beach city in central Vietnam, chosen as one of the best cities for expats

Danang is a beautiful coastal city in Vietnam and despite being overshadowed by nearby destinations like Hué and Hoi An, Danang holds significant charm of its own. As the economic hub of central Vietnam, it blends urban vibrancy with stunning beaches and excellent dining options. Recent investments have transformed the city with tree-lined boulevards, new bridges, and upscale beachside resorts.

Back in the heady days of the American War, Danang was referred to as the ‘Saigon of the North’. This held a note of both praise and condemnation: like its big southern sister, Danang was notable for its booming economy, fine restaurants, less traffic and glittering shops.

Entertaining the soldiers from the nearby American base was a profitable business – bars and lodging were major industries. However, Danang nowadays host a great array of tourism opportunity and has became a great choice to live in Vietnam as often referred as the best cities for expats.

Whether you have a family or are single, want to start a business, or retire, Danang is the fourth largest city and one of the few best cities in Vietnam to settle down.

Nha Trang: A well worth to visit city in Vietnam and a happy hour by the sea

Nha Trang has traditionally relied on its vast fishing industry which is evident in the lifestyle of the local people. Taking advantage of some of the best coastline cities in Vietnam and weather-wise, Nha Trang is developing into one of its main resort towns. Boasting perfect weather for fishing and some of the clearest water in Vietnam, a cruise, snorkel and seafood lunch out on the bay amongst the islands off Nha Trang is a must.

Furthermore, besides its breathtaking natural beauty, Nha Trang is renowned for its premium seafood, particularly fish, squid, and shrimp. Local stalls and vendors abound, offering a plethora of seafood dishes prepared using diverse cooking techniques such as deep frying, pan frying, grilling, boiling, and steaming.

Flavoured by distinctive sauces, the flavors and aromas of Nha Trang’s seafood are irresistible, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for every visitor.

In addition, Nha Trang is undeniably stunning, surrounded by lush mountains, while its beach stretches gracefully along a bay adorned with scattered islands. Topiary and contemporary sculptures punctuate the meticulously groomed waterfront.

Hue city: An ancient capital city of Nguyen Emperors in Vietnam

Hue’s ancient beauty is bisected by the Perfume River, given its name by the smell created from the fallen flowers which drift down the river each year. Hue became the capital and cultural centre cities in Vietnam back in last century and was home to Vietnam’s last Emperor Dynasty and as such contains the must see UNESCO listed Citadel and Royal Tombs.

To shortlist the cities in Vietnam and if you prioritize art and history and culture over leisurely pursuits like beaches and fun, Hué should be at the top of your list when visiting Vietnam.

As the former capital of the Nguyen emperors, Hué brims with temples, tombs, palaces, and handsomely decorated pagodas—many of which have withstood the trials of history. Additionally, food enthusiasts will find Hué’s renowned Imperial cuisine, served in a meticulous degustation style, to be an unforgettable culinary experience.

Hoi An: Placed on top of Vietnam cities to visit

Hoi An is best introduced as an old town exploration, flavorsome cuisines, traditions by the river, and best known as the ‘Living Museum among the Vietnam cities and towns. There’s plenty to do in Hoi An. Emphatically the most exploring place along the coast and An Bang beach, this is one spot worth lingering in.

In addition of being a UNESCO listed cities in Vietnam, Hoi An is a place lost in time. Once a major trading port of South East Asia from the end of the 16th century to the early 19th century, Hoi An was populated and influenced architecturally by Japanese, French, Chinese and Vietnamese designs.

Becoming forgotten to the outside world once its river silted up, this charming town still retains its well kept original historic buildings and ancient backstreets and has become a favourite for today’s visitors. It is also the best place for bargain priced, tailor- made clothes.

Mekong Delta (My Tho, Chau Doc, Can Tho, Vinh Long)

Widely known as the Rice Basket major cities in Vietnam, the Delta is an important region both economically and culturally for the country as it is the world’s largest exporting region of rice. Home to 18 million Vietnamese, this is a world of waterways, backwaters and canals, always influenced by the whims of the river system.

The Delta is an ideal place to experience the life of a local Vietnamese farmer in one of our home stays. Can Tho is one of the must visited cities as the floating markets are best seen in this area.

Sapa: Vietnam’s trekking capital

A favourite destination for those who have ventured there, the old French hill station of Sapa is set amongst the picturesque Hoang Lien Son mountain range, which is the highest in Vietnam.

Sapa is Inhabited by the Black Hmong ethnic minority and surrounded by many other colourful hill-tribe minorities, Sapa is a perfect city and a destination to appreciate the lifestyle of these friendly people, especially at the markets.

In addition, referred to as a trekking capital among the Vietnamese cities and a place to appreciate an absolute nature. Learn more about best things to do in Sapa Vietnam

Halong Bay: Home to magical, mystical landscape of limestone islets

Enigmatic and awe-inspiring, Halong Bay transcends mere words to capture its natural splendor. Picture over 3,000 magnificent islands emerging from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin—an image of unparalleled beauty. Halong Bay is nature’s masterpiece, a priceless assembly of sculpted formations that evoke pure artistry.

The World Heritage listed Halong Bay is different from any other places and often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Vietnam cities. According to legend, the 1000’s of islands were formed by a dragon and its efforts form some of the most stunning scenery in Vietnam.

Indeed, no itinerary would be complete without at least spending a four hour cruise on the Bay of Tonkin and, if time permits, staying overnight onboard a traditional Junk boat anchored amongst the bizarre rock sculptures watching sunset and sunrise.

Dalat: stumbled into the French Alps in springtime

Built by the French as a hill station retreat from the Ho Chi Minh City’s heat, this small town nestled in the Central Highlands is a favourite destination for the romantics and is also known as the favourite honeymoon city amongst the local Vietnamese.

Being surrounded by lakes, valleys and waterfalls, this small colonial designed town has a real alpine feel. Dalat Things To Do and Top Attractions

Phu Quoc: A splendid tropical getaway in Southern Vietnam

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island. The region is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, and it also offers the best seafood in the country. Enjoy relaxing on the white sand beaches or exploring the quaint fishing villages in this tropical paradise.

The island itself is located within 15km south of Cambodia’s coastline, Phu Quoc, measuring 48km in length with an area spanning 1320 sq km, stands as Vietnam’s largest island and a favorite beach escape by locals.

In addition of Vietnam cities, the island is known as Ko Tral by Cambodian, the island is claimed by Cambodia, leading to the establishment of a significant Vietnamese military base covering its northern end—though this military presence remains discreetly low-key.

Pleiku: Off the tourist track of cities in Vietnam

Off the tourist track city in Vietnam, Pleiku (or Playcu) makes for little more than a pleasant stopover on Hwy 14. Once a sleepy market town but has been well taken care and it become an important coffee farm land on central Vietnam. The roads and landscapes are well worth a road trip, specially if you’re planning a Vietnam Motorbike tour

In addition to the beautiful places and waterfall around the central highlands, Pleiku has its own story of Vietnam war – In February 1965 the VC shelled a US compound in Pleiku, killing eight Americans. Although the USA already had more than 23, 000 military advisers in Vietnam, their role was supposed to be noncombative at the time.

The attack on Pleiku was used as a justification by US President Johnson to begin a relentless bombing campaign against North Vietnam and the rapid build-up of US troops.

After US troops left in 1973, Vietnamese forces maintained Pleiku as their primary combat base in the region. When these troops fled from the advancing VC, the entire civilian population of Pleiku and nearby Kon Tum fled alongside them. Over 100,000 people participated in the rush to the coastline, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths along the way.

Phan Thiet & Mui Ne

From a isolated fishing village to a beautiful resort town. Located approximately 200km north of Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne are traditional fishing villages fast becoming popular leisure destinations, famous for the stunning beaches and spectacular sand dunes. The area is an ideal place to unwind after your tour of Vietnam

Mui Ne’s developing a reputation as the action capital of the coast. There’s no scuba diving or snorkelling here, but when Nha Trang and Hoi An get the rains, Mui Ne gets the waves. Surf’s up from August to December.

Mui Ne well receive all types of windsurfers, the gales howl as well, especially from late October to late April, when swells stir over from the typhoons off the coasts of the Philippines.

Kite-surfing is very popular. If this all sounds too much like hard work you can simply splash about in the clean, clear water.

Qui Nhon: A coastal town in central Vietnam

Qui Nhon is an energetic town in Vietnam located half way between the popular cities of Nha Trang and Hoi An, located in central coasts of Vietnam. Surrounded by green mountains on three sides and the ocean on the fourth, the city is known for its beautiful surroundings, Cham temples and nearby beaches.

In a beautiful coastal location and in addition of being relatively off the beaten track, Qui Nhon town offers a truly authentic experience specially if you’re looking after a more quite beach to relax

Ninh Binh with gorgeous surrounding countryside

Ninh Binh is a Vietnamese city not far from the Hanoi, the spectacular town embodies the tranquility of a spacious rural town, a refreshing change after the hustle of Hanoi. A great day tour option from Hanoi and beside that, you can enjoy peaceful strolls through its serene countryside. Moreover, you’ll find solitude as you explore the tranquil rice terraces.

The countryside around Ninh Binh is simply stunning, following Vietnamese cities with green lush sceneries and a good place to watch the water buffaloes, golden-green rice paddies, and interesting limestone formations. Ninh Binh things to do and attractions

Introducing North-central Cities in Vietnam

Most travelers only experience of north-central cities in Vietnam when taking a long bus journeys from Hanoi to Hué. There are more towns and beaches here that offers something perhaps more visitor-friendly that those in Southern Vietnam cities. The most beautiful places and towns to stop would be Hoi An, Hue, Danang and beaches stretched along the roads.

While the stunning karst-ridden countryside around Ninh Binh can be seen from a tourist bus on a day trip from Hanoi, it doesn’t rate with the experience of cycling around the idyllic rice paddies by yourself or on the back of a motorbike, as children leading water buffalo stop to wave and shout hello.

Architecture and Graham Greene fans alike won’t want to miss Phat Diem, the fascinating cathedral unchanged from its vivid description in The Quiet American (albeit without the bodies floating in the canals).

South of Ninh Binh it’s likely you won’t see much tourists or meet other English-speakers. While some might find that daunting, for the more intrepid this presents another side of Vietnam cities – even if at times it can be a grim place in the still-recovering war-devastated cities of the north.

The excellent Reunification Express train services make it easy to break the journey into comfortable legs, with Vinh and Dong Hoi interesting spots for an overnight stay.

Introducing Northeast Vietnamese Cities

For most tourists, the northeast Vietnam cities are all about Halong Bay. The sublime seascape at this World Heritage site is undoubtedly one of Vietnam’s most enchanting experiences. But high up in the rugged mountains of the interior are some of the Vietnam’s most intriguing places and far fewer tourists than in the coastal clusters.

Bizarre but interesting, Halong is geology gone wild, in addition to hundreds and thousands of limestone pinnacles raising up from the waters. North of Halong Bay is the less-visited Bai Tu Long Bay, where nature’s spectacular show continues all the way to the Chinese border.

To the south of Halong is Cat Ba Island, a ‘lost world’ with even more landscapes with hiking, biking or just hanging around the order of the day. And just a hydrofoil ride away is Haiphong, the north’s major port and a step back in time with wide boulevards and elegant architecture.

Looming above the coast, the brooding mountains of the northeast are another world entirely. The karst connection continues into Cao Bang province and less inhabited towns in Vietnam, the surreal scenery some of the most stunning in all country . It is the perfect base for meeting Montagnard minorities and exploring idyllic waterfalls or Ba Be National Park.

Moreover, this area is a popular for travelling overland between China & Vietnam (visas prepared in advance).

There are two border crossings: one on the coast at Mong Cai that is rarely used, and Lang Son. With all this border traffic, it’s looking good for the locals and the northeast is riding on a boom, as the gateway to Hanoi, by land and by sea.

Introducing Towns and cities in Northwest Vietnam

Welcome to the roof of Vietnam, generally home to the mountains of the Tonkinese Alps (Hoang Lien Mountains) soar skyward, their long shadows concealing some of the country’s best-kept secrets. The landscape is a rich palette that provides some of the most spectacular scenery offered compared to towns in Vietnam.

For many tourists, Sapa is the northwest best place to visit. But in addition to Sapa the voluptuous views continue, and there are many other options to come face to face with the bold landscapes and colourful inhabitants of this region – Bac Ha, Dien Bien Phu and Mai Chau. For the ultimate motorbike adventure head to Ha Giang, the final frontier in northern Vietnam.

Although many of the roads in the cities of northwest Vietnam are well-paved, many are dangerous cliffhangers that are regularly wiped out by landslides in the wet season. The stretch from Lai Chau into Sapa offers some of the best mountain vistas in Southeast Asia, as the road climbs more than 1000m over the Tram Ton Pass.

The northwestern roads are always improving, but if you suffer from vertigo, backache or (God forbid) haemorrhoids, you might want to stick to the shorter trips. The northwest cities in Vietnam from Hanoi, via Dien Bien Phu and Sapa, is a gruelling but definitive road trip to discover the secrets of the region.

Introducing towns & cities Around Ho Chi Minh City

As the geographic footprint of Ho Chi Minh City continues to develop, finding a respite from urban life has become a complicated undertaking. Thankfully, there are still refreshing escapes to wild forests, inviting beaches & fascinating historical & cultural sights.

One of the Southern Vietnam towns top attractions is the Cat Tien National Park, a Unesco-rated biosphere hosts a variety of flora and fauna. Tourists go bird-watching, hiking the trails & overnight in a crocodile swamp.

The Con Dao Islands, a 40-minute flight from Saigon, offer an equally attractive getaway, albeit of a tropical island flavour. Con Dao today boasts largely undiscovered beaches, empty coastal roads and a healthy ecosystem complete with coral reefs & colonies of green sea turtles – one of Vietnam’s best cities to see in the wild.

Similarly, there are stifling tunnels of Cu Chi, where VC guerrillas once lived, fought and – in many cases – died.  In addition, the fantastical Cao Dai Temple provides a surreal point to learn about Vietnam’s uniquely home-grown religion.