Where To Visit In Vietnam For The First Time [2023]

Home » Vietnam » Where To Visit In Vietnam For The First Time [2023]

With the feeling of being a tourist the first time you come to Vietnam, you will be very excited right? We are sure so. But have you known where to visit Vietnam for the first time? If you are still clueless, read about the best places to visit in Vietnam.

Choose FTrip’s tour now to have a great experience in Indochina:

Sapa

Starting a list of where to visit in Vietnam for the first time in Sapa. This is the indispensable land of Vietnam. Located in the mountains of northern Vietnam, Sapa is the home of ethnic minorities. For a country located in the tropics like Vietnam, this is one of the coldest places in winter in Vietnam. Once the warmer season comes, nature will take on a gentle shape, with golden rice fields stretching across the hills.

In the distance, you can see the peak of mysterious Fansibang and the image of green wings and small villages dotted on the hill. Create a picture with a harmonious overall. The geographical location of this area has attracted many species of animals and plants, turning Sapa into a suitable destination for nature lovers.

Where To Visit In Vietnam For The First Time [2023]
(Source: Internet)

Halong Bay

From the highlands to the sea, visitors can visit Halong Bay, one of the UNESCO-recognized scenic spots. Halong Bay has unmistakable features such as jade green water with more than 2000 islands made of karst limestone scattered everywhere and more than 50 natural caves.

You should experience a cruise tour here. When standing on the boat, you will feel the beat of the waves most clearly. Having a relaxing afternoon on the ship will make you feel so small among the splendor of this place.

In addition, you can see the peaceful scene of the fisherman’s life here with the stilt houses lying peacefully among vast giant vegetation.

Where To Visit In Vietnam For The First Time [2023]
(Source: Internet)

Hanoi

You cannot know the essence of Vietnam if you ignore Hanoi – the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam. This city combines the quintessence of culture, tradition, and entertainment with a unique national identity.

There are many places to visit, such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and One Pillar Pagoda.

There is also a famous area, the Old Quarter, where unique souvenirs are made from Vietnam’s iconic ceramic or bamboo or Hanoi must try dishes (Bun Dau Mam Tom, Bun Cha) in the neighborhoods.

Read more: Things to do in Hanoi, Best egg coffee in Hanoi

Hanoi - the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam
(Source: Internet)

Hue

Before Hanoi became the capital of Vietnam, Hue held that important position in the country for more than 100 years. Therefore, Hue also contains many critical historical relics marking the country’s development journey. If you are a history buff, stories about the royal family in this place will surely satisfy you.

You can visit the ancient architecture of Kinh Thanh Hue or sit on a boat on the Huong River, which is as calm as a silk strip. Hue cuisine, renowned for its complex taste combinations and rich, refined flavors, is a must-try during any trip to Hue. Dishes like Bun Bo Hue, Com Hen, Banh Bot Loc, and Chè should not be missed.

where to visit in vietnam for the first time - Hue
(Source: Internet)

Danang

Do you know about Danang, which receives endless compliments from tourists about Vietnam? This place is the right choice for a family vacation, with one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Wonderful My Khe beach will bring you and your family the best experiences in outdoor activities with sand and sea.

Besides, Da Nang is a fun place suitable for tourists of all ages. Family-friendly services include the Ba Na Hills complex, amusement park, flower garden, restaurant, hotel, and the spectacular Golden Bridge. Other attractions in this crowded city are Son Tra Peninsula, Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son), and Dragon Bridge.

Danang in Vietnam
(Source: Internet)

Hoi An

Hoian was a trading port throughout the 15th-19th centuries. This small town is only a 45-minute drive from Da Nang city. Although not too big, this town is filled with old houses and many exciting attractions. You can spend at least a day on a simple Hoi An city tour, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and Assembly Hall Fujian.

The streets of Hoi An are dotted with colorful lanterns. When the night covers everything, the lanterns will shine brighter than ever, creating a dreamlike scene that only exists in the movies.

Besides, Hoian cuisine is also quite prominent, with several unique dishes. For outdoor enthusiasts, a short bike ride to Hoi An’s neighboring villages, such as Cam Thanh and Tra Que, is also a good option for a little sunbathing and a glimpse of the daily life of local people.

where to visit in vietnam for the first time
(Source: Internet)

Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City

The city of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) has a beautiful source of vibrant energy. The right destination for those in need of inspiration because this city can breathe life and introduce you to new things. This is the largest city and a unique cultural destination in Asia.

Suppose you’ve just moved here from Hanoi. In that case, there’s a big difference between the lifestyles of the two regions, such as enjoying breakfast in street stalls, great shops, and a vibrant nightlife. Much of the joy of being in Saigon stems from the simple pleasure of being in the hustle and bustle of its life.

For foreign visitors to Vietnam for the first time, traveling to Ho Chi Minh City is still the best choice to both enjoy and explore the country.

Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City a must see destination in Vietnam
(Source: Internet)

Mui Ne

Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne takes only a few hours. This place is known as a paradise on earth, favored by domestic and international tourists.

This town is famous for its numerous resorts, luxury hotels, and amenities because of its incredible coastline, dunes, white sand beaches, and mild climate. More specifically, the cost of overnight accommodation is very reasonable. You can also rent a hotel room for a very cheap price. About 25 km from the center of Mui Ne, visitors can participate in water sports activities or enjoy a day lying on the white dunes. Mui Ne Beach is considered a top destination in Southeast Asia for kitesurfing and other water sports such as sailing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.

Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne
(Source: Internet)

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc island is one of Vietnam’s most famous destinations for first-time tourists. There are also a variety of resorts and hotels for visitors to choose from. There are areas where there will be a private beach, which is very suitable for tourists who want time to heal.

Some of the recommended attractions here: The Ho Quoc Pagoda, the Phu Quoc Prison, the Phu Quoc National Park, Sao Beach, the Duong Dong Night Market, the black pepper gardens, the fish sauce factory, the pearl farm, Vinpearl Land and Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc.

Phu Quoc island is one of Vietnam's most famous destinations for first-time tourists
(Source: Internet)

We have a particular spot in Vietnam to answer where to visit in Vietnam for the first time. As you can see, Vietnam has many areas with different rhythms of life. If you need more information about places to visit in Vietnam, contact Ftrip to get more information.

Reviewed by

Diep Van

Phone: +84901166884

Email: diep.van@ftripvietnam.com

Diep Van

Founder & Photography Guide

Specialties: Culture, landscape, portrait, hiking, active and adventurous tour

Besides my unlimited passion for traveling, a professional tour guide for over a decade, I have been taking photographs since sitting at Hanoi of the University of Culture in the early 2000s. Photography started as a hobby but it was seriously taken due to my work relations and my significant passion for the beauty of our world, especially in Southeast Asian parts such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

Within a few years of taking photographs, my works began to be recognized by many reliable international publications such as AFAR Travel, The Times, and The Daily Telegraph newspaper. In addition, I continuously add to my growing profile by winning numerous major awards: 3rd Position of The Independent Photographer 2018, 1st Position of Amateur Photographer of the year 2018, Grand Prize Winner of the AFAR Travel Photography 2019, and a Gold Award of San Francisco Bay International Photography 2020.

I photograph a wide variety of subjects, from travel to landscapes to street scenes. I enjoy documenting the East’s rich cultural heritage and its land soaked in glorious sunrise or sunset light in remote and secluded spots. And, I am very happy to share my knowledge and experience with you. You can visit Luminousvietnamtour to explore tour!


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