10 Famous Vietnam landmarks you have to visit in 2025

Vietnam is packed with jaw-dropping landmarks worthy of any Instagram feed! From rolling river deltas and national parks to history-rich cities and grub worth writing home about — Vietnam packs a smile for every traveler. 

In this article, we help you find the best places to visit in Vietnam. We’ve broken the list into bucket list sites, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders so you can prioritize and plan your ideal trip. 

Send this article to the group chat now, and let’s get planning!

Train Street in Hanoi is not to be missed when in Vietnam. 

Top bucket list landmarks in Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the world’s oldest civilizations and has thrived on its fertile lands for centuries.

Today, it’s also a budget-friendly destination for many travelers, offering diverse landscapes and great weather nearly all year round.

Let’s start your list of landmarks for Vietnam with the absolute must-sees. 

1. Ha Long Bay

Cruising through Ha Long or Halong Bay is a must for your Vietnamese experience.

Every year, millions of tourists visit the breathtaking landscape combining towering limestone islands, emerald waters, and lush forests. 

Historical significance

The name “Ha Long” translates to “descending dragon.” It’s rooted in a legend of dragons that descended from above to protect Vietnam from invaders.

Today, the dragons’ teeth are said to have formed the iconic limestone karsts that dot this bay.

Things to do

• Explore jaw-dropping caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) or Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave), showcasing millions of years of limestone evolution. Day cruises range between $45-$120 (USD), and overnight cruises from $130-$400 — depending on the provider, experience, and season. 
• Catch a bird’s eye view and book a seaplane to see the islands from the sky; 25-minute rides start at around $85. 
• Indulge in local cuisine at the Ha Long night market. Here, you’ll discover everything from fresh seafood to regional specialties. 
• Spend a day relaxing on Ti Top Beach or snorkeling Tuan Chau Island’s coral reefs.

Note: Put comfortable, water-tolerant shoes on your Vietnam packing list if you want to make the most of this location and reach some of the viewpoints on foot. 

Best time to visit

December to January is a popular time to visit with cooler weather and clear skies, though you certainly won’t be the only one looking for the same!

September to November and March to May are ideal if you prefer smaller crowds and milder temperatures.

If you’re looking to snorkel and swim, it’s best to visit in the morning with fewer boats and calmer waters. However, if you’re looking to cruise the bay by boat, then soak it up at sunset!

2. Hoi An, the ancient town

Hoi An might look like a quaint little town today, but it’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a glorious glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

The old streets, yellow heritage buildings, and delicious Vietnamese street food in this town will teleport you to a time rich in worldly spices.

Historical significance

Hoi An is a 15th-century town preserved in time. Once a key port city for Southeast Asia, and thriving during the spice trade era, the streets of Hoi An became a melting pot of Chinese, Arab, and European culture. 

Things to do

• Grab a ticket to explore the five heritage buildings of Hoi An, including traditional houses, assembly halls, and museums. Your entrance ticket to Old Town is around $5. 
• Visit the Japanese-Covered Bridge and the temple alongside it, infusing Hoi An’s cultural history in one breath. 
• Catch a boat ride during the Hoi An Lantern Festival (held every 14th day of the lunar month) for a magical display of glowing lanterns and unique handicrafts. A 30-minute boat ride should cost around $6-$8. 
• Try the Banh Mi Hoi An (Vietnamese baguette sandwich) at Banh Mi Phuong and Cao Lau (a pork rice noodle dish) at Morning Glory Restaurant. You can thank us later!

Best time to visit

Hoi An sits within its own microclimate, making the dry months an excellent time to visit this Vietnam hotspot.

If you prefer warmer weather, but not sweltering summer heat, you’d love Hoi An from February to May. 

September to January are generally cooler months with more rain — although some say the rain adds to the town’s aesthetic.

Lastly, if you’re a keen surfer then February is your time to visit with nearby surf spots: An Bang and Cua Dai beaches.

3. My Son Sanctuary

Just 25 miles west of Hoi An lies My Son Sanctuary, a stunning testament to the Hindu influence on Vietnamese culture.

Nestled in a lush green forest, this UNESCO World Heritage site features 71 towers & temples built by Cham kings between the 4th and 13th centuries.

This is the place to be if you want to explore one of Vietnam’s oldest landmarks, it has survived countless invasions over the years.

Historical significance

What remains of My Son today is only a fragment of the grand complex envisioned by the Cham kings.

The architecture of the towers, temples, and tombs draws inspiration from Hindu scriptures, nodding toward the mythical kingdom of Champapura (the land of Cham people).

Things to do

• Explore the Cham temples and admire the fire-brick designs that have endured centuries of hardship. Your entrance to the sanctuary will cost around $6.50, this includes access to the on-site museum.
• Catch the sunrise over the towers, it’s great for the Instagrammers in your travel group!
• Watch a traditional Apsara dance which combines Cham and Hindu traditions. This experience is often included in guided tours.

Best time to visit

My Son Sanctuary looks best on a clear, sunny day, making spring (February to April) and fall (September to November) months ideal for travelers.

However, if you’re looking to escape the crowds then try to visit the site first thing in the morning during the summer months (May to July).

4. Cu Chi Tunnels

A list of Vietnam’s famous landmarks wouldn’t be complete without the famous tunnels used in the Vietnam War.

Only 44 miles northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a fascinating and resilient part of the country’s history.

Historical significance

The Cu Chi Tunnels played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War, serving as a vast underground fortress for the Viet Cong.

They featured hidden entrances and escape routes and were equipped with living quarters, kitchens, and hospitals, making them self-sustaining during the Vietnam War!

The army also used the 75-mile-long network to plant booby traps, so watch your step!

Things to do

• Explore the Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc tunnels and understand how soldiers used to get around during the Vietnam War. Entry is around $5-$25 per person, depending on the season and whether you’re booking with a guide or not.
• Visit the War Remnants Museum and Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn more about the Indochina War and Vietnam’s most iconic leader.
• Meet a war veteran and listen to their first-hand account of the Vietnam War — a truly unique and moving experience. 
• Board a water bus and drift down the Saigon River. You can grab a return ticket for less than $2, and the water bus operates from 7:00 to 19:30. 

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cu Chi tunnels is between February and April — the cooler months. The months between May and November will likely be too hot and humid for you to explore these narrow tunnels. 

Warning: this Vietnam landmark is not for you if you’re claustrophobic! Some parts of the tunnel can get tight.  

5. Hue, The Imperial City

One of the most famous landmarks of Vietnam is the Imperial City of Hue. It was once the country’s capital until the middle of the 20th century and continues to be one of the most iconic remnants of the Nguyen dynasty. 

Historical significance

Surrounded by thick walls, Hue was built to replicate the impenetrable city of Beijing. The sprawling city was home to the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 to 1945 and is still packed with royal motifs to spot as you tour through it.

Things to do

• Step inside the Hue Citadel and wander through the ancient administrative buildings, tranquil pagodas, and opulent royal residences. The entry fee is around $7.90. 
• Visit the Citadel Museum to learn about life in imperial Vietnam and the Nguyen dynasty. 
• Cruise the Perfume River at sunset and breathe in the aroma of herbs and flowers. Tickets will cost you between $15-$150 and trips range from 1-2 hours all the way through to entire day trips. 
• Treat your tastebuds by visiting Dong Ba Market and try the famous Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef and pork noodle soup).

Best time to visit

There’s always something happening in the Imperial City. Hue is pleasant in March and April when it’s not too hot or cold.

The weather stays dry until August so you can catch the Hue International Art Festival Week and Hue Light Festival in the summer.

If you can look past frequent rains and chilly air, Hue International Music Week and Tet Holidays will fill your boots in winter.

Top tip: Don’t forget to check in with your mobile data provider before your trip to Vietnam. You’ll likely be hit with hefty roaming charges if you’re not using a Vietnam-specific pocket WiFi, physical SIM card, or eSIM provider. More on that later!

6. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta, also known as Vietnam’s “rice bowl” for the enormous amount of rice grown there, is a bustling and vibrant region along the banks of the Mekong River.

The river itself is a famous Vietnam landmark, but it’s the floating markets and diverse foods where the real magic lies — well, floats! 

Historical significance

The River has been home to many over generations. Its fertile soil, fish farms, and orchards make it a massive contributor to the Vietnamese economy.

In fact, the River helps Vietnam to be the third largest producer of rice in the world, second to Thailand and India. 

Things to do

• Hop on a boat to navigate the narrow canals. You go for a small paddle boat for a few hours all the way through to week-long cruises. Some tours even include stops at pottery workshops! Trips can range anywhere between $40-$1,600 depending on your length of trip and level of luxury. 
• Get there before 7:00 and take your pick from the freshest fruits on the floating market at Can Tho.
• Water not your flow? Mix things up and cycle through the scenic countryside: alongside rice paddies, orchards, and local villages.
• Kiss Cambodia’s border and explore Chau Doc. The area is famous for the market over the Hau River, where you’ll find stomach-stuffing grub packed with Cambodian influence.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Mekong Delta is in the dry season. The delta weather differs slightly from other places so you need to be careful how you plan your trip.

The dry months between December to February offer great weather. March and April are quite warm and you’ll get fresh summer fruits at this time. 

That wraps up our absolute must-visit landmarks in Vietnam. Next up, landmarks for the culture buffs. Read on for two of the most culturally significant landmarks in Vietnam. 

Cultural landmarks in Vietnam you need to visit

Vietnam’s culture is nothing short of spectacular. Here are two of Vietnam’s famous landmarks heavily tied to its world-famous culture.

7. The Temple of Literature, Hanoi

Hanoi is packed with things to do, but when there you can’t miss the Temple of Literature. It’s not just a beautiful campus, but also the site of Vietnam’s very first university, dating all the way back to 1070.

Divided into five courtyards, the library was built by the emperor Ly Thang Tong who wanted to promote the teachings of Confucius.

Historical significance

The five courtyards of the Temple of Literature represent Confucian ideals, tranquility, and higher learning.

A few years after the library was opened, Ly Thang Tong’s son built the Imperial Academy to support higher education among the elites of Vietnam and neighboring countries.

Things to do

• Stroll alongside Giam Lake which is located near the entrance gate, the lake is a popular spot for students to calm their minds after a busy day on campus.
• Explore the five courtyards, each offering something unique, from the Well of Heavenly Clarity to the rows of stone steles inscribed with the names of famous scholars. Entrance tickets will cost you around $1.50. 
• Catch a calligrapher during a special event and have them write a Vietnamese keepsake to remember your trip with.
• Explore Ba Dinh Square near the Temple of Literature and visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Best time to visit

The Temple of Literature welcomes visitors throughout the year. If you want to roam around in peace and without crowds, you should visit in summer (March to August).

The months of December and January are generally very crowded because of the Lunar New Year and graduation weeks — although both are special events to witness!

8. Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue 

Only three miles from the Imperial City of Hue, the Thien Mu Pagoda is a landmark steeped in spirituality and political activism.

This 7-story pagoda, dating back to 1601, is one of the country’s most significant Buddhist sites. Its striking octagonal tower has become a symbol of Hue, and the peaceful setting overlooking the Perfume River makes the climb worth the struggle.

Historical significance

Built in 1601, during the Nguyen dynasty, Thien Mu Pagoda is steeped in legend and history — all seven floors of it.

Its name, “Pagoda of the Celestial Lady,” is inspired by a local tale of a goddess who appeared at the site, predicting the construction of a spiritual hub. 

The octagonal tower, Phuoc Duyen Tower, has seven levels, each dedicated to a different reincarnation of Buddha, with a golden Buddha statue housed at the top.

In modern history, the pagoda became a focal point during the 1963 Buddhist protests, symbolizing the resilience of Vietnam’s spiritual community.

Things to do

• Climb up the six levels of the pagoda, enjoy the intricate designs each step of the way, and soak up a bird’s eye view of Hue from the 6th floor. 
• See the Dai Hong Chung bell, weighing over two tons(!), and the turtle statue — both are symbols of knowledge and longevity in Buddhism.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Thien Mu Pagoda is during spring and summer (February to August). The tropical climate of Hue doesn’t offer the best experience during the wet season.

If you’re no stranger to some wetter weather, visit in January for The Tet holidays (Vietnamese Lunar New Year). During this time you’ll see monks performing traditional rituals.

The pagoda is also typically decorated with flowers, lanterns, and offerings. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to participate in some of the celebrations and stretch your musical muscles with chanting or bell ringing. 

Natural wonders in Vietnam everyone needs to see

Looking for nature? You’re in good hands. Vietnam is blooming with some incredible natural landmarks. Put these two natural wonders on your itinerary.

9. Sa Pa Rice Terraces

Nestled sweetly in the mountains of northwest Vietnam, these rice fields are one of the most famous landmarks in Vietnam.

They connect the nation to its agrarian roots. Carved into the slopes of the mountains, they’re a perfect example of man working hand-in-hand with nature.

Historical significance

The fields were initially crafted by Hmong and Dao people after they were pushed out of their homeland of San Miao in China.

Over generations, families have continued their work and today the Vietnamese believe growing rice is now a labor of love. 

Here, locals have an unbreakable bond with the food that sustains the country and the fields showcase humankind’s resilience, even in some of the world’s most complex terrains. 

Things to do

• Explore the steep slopes of Sa Pa village and observe how the locals maintain the rice terraces.
• Visit Cat Cat village — just as charming as it sounds — nestled under the Hoang Lien Son mountains, and home to postcard-perfect waterfalls. 
• Take a detour to the lesser-known Y Ty rice terraces, and wander their Saturday morning market.

Best time to visit

The Rice fields look the best during planting and harvesting seasons. In May and June, the Sa Pa rice terraces transform into large mirrors as the fields are irrigated through the rains.

In harvest season (late July-early September) the fields turn into the lush green meadows you’ll often associate with their name.

A note of advice: Some of Vietnam’s more “off-road” wonders can have patchy internet. Make sure you download any information you need before your trip, or ensure you’ll have a solid mobile internet connection when in Vietnam with your internet provider.

10. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Take Jurassic Park, roll into Asian folklore legend, and you’ve got Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

Here, you’ll walk tropical forests, spend mornings bird watching, and cruise between complex limestone karsts. If Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park isn’t on your Vietnam bucket list yet, it’s time for an update. 

Historical significance

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is located behind the Phong Nha village. It contains 65 miles of limestone karsts dating back 400 million years to the Paleozoic era.

The newly discovered caves are marked by tectonic changes to stone formations, showcasing the distinct topography of Vietnam and warranting it as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. 

Things to do

• Cruise through Phong Nha and Paradise Caves exploring the underground rivers. Soak up the stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Note: It’s a pay-per-cave set-up here, so make sure you’ve got local currency going, each cave will cost around $6-$10.  
• Take a guided conservation tour or go solo to witness the diverse flora and fauna from close quarters.
• Visit Son Doong Cave and embark on an expedition to the largest cave in the world, an awe-inspiring adventure for seasoned explorers. There are some intense week-long tours available, but they book up years in advance and will likely set you back a few thousand dollars. 
• Go deep into the countryside and enjoy local delicacies in Bong Lai Valley.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Phong Nha-Ke National Park is the first few months of the year when rainfall is low and sea caves are accessible.

Alternatively, you’ll enjoy hundreds of vertebrates, mammals, and birds between March and August. 

Our top tip? Get there early and beat the afternoon battle of the boats!

That’s every famous landmark covered. Read on for our top travel tips when planning to visit all of these iconic landmarks and historical sites.   

Tips for visiting Vietnam’s landmarks

Vietnam is a safe, welcoming country for travelers, ready to entertain you at every turn. But, there are still a few things to keep in mind to make your trip even more memorable — for all the right reasons. 

• Be aware of climate changes: North and South Vietnam experience different seasons. While the north enjoys four seasons (spring, summer, winter, and autumn), the tropical south has only two seasons— dry and wet. Plan accordingly!
• Go out of your way to interact with local communities, foods, and markets. This will enrich your Vietnam trip and learning the local language will massively help you with this. 
• Grab an unlimited data eSIM. They’re every traveler’s complaint-free companion. With eSIMs, you can ditch the hassle of changing physical SIM cards between countries if you’re planning on exploring more of Asia on your trip. There are a few Vietnam eSIM providers offering unlimited data packages with flexible days of use packages.
• The Vietnamese don’t like pointing fingers or talking loudly! Be mindful of social cues and make friends, not foes, as you go.
• Opt for bikes and cycle whenever you can. Part of Vietnam’s charm is discovered on wheels (and slowly). Bike through the countryside at your own pace, or Vietnam’s — whichever is slower and allows for plenty of food stops!

Top tip: Ensure you’re syncing photos to a cloud storage system — you’ll need the space on your phone!

Grab a Holafly eSIM in Vietnam and stay connected between landmarks

Staying connected to the internet throughout your trip will help you connect with local landmarks, people, and good grub.

With unlimited data in your pocket, you can quickly navigate maps or translate basic phrases to keep your trip (spring) rolling and free of surprise data bills. 

If you’re looking to use a Holafly eSIM in Vietnam, you’ll be able to activate your eSIM instantly with a stable internet connection. With Holafly you’ll have:

• Extensive 4G/5G coverage across Vietnam thanks to MobiFone and Vinaphone network support.
• Unlimited data to help you travel without limits — emotionally, physically, and on your data usage.
• No stress of managing additional phone numbers as you continue using your existing number.
• 24/7 customer support in 6 languages to help you overcome any road bump.

The landmarks of Vietnam will stay with you long after you’ve left. Every corner of this country has a story to tell and invites you in with plates of steaming food, breathtaking backdrops, and ear-to-ear smiles. Enjoy your trip!

Stay connected in Vietnam

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From London and now living in Barcelona Ray Slater Berry has been working in content and social media within the travel sector for 10+ years. He's worked with some big travel brands: Remote Year, TravelPerk, European Bartender School, to name a few. Ray has always been on the move with his work and believes that you're at your most productive and joyful when you're outside of your comfort zone.

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