The cities in Vietnam you should visit on your trip
by Juan José Herranz | July 24, 2019
Vietnam is a country full of secrets that you must discover during your trip. You have multiple things to do in Vietnam. If you are visiting Vietnam, you must know the major cities in Vietnam and what to do in them.
Saigon, capital city of Vietnam
The ancient Saigon (now called Ho Chi Minh City or HCMC) is the capital city of Vietnam and of the south of the country. It could also be said that it’s the most famous out of all of the cities in Vietnam. Luckily, it has managed to preserve its history while adapting to modernity.
Some of the best attractions in the city include the Reunification Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Pagoda of the Jade Emperor or the Opera House.
The Vietnam war museum can help you better understand what happened in the 20th century and how it ended up shaping the country forever. If you can, make time to visit the war tunnels in Cu Chi to further grasp the way of life during the war.
Hoi An, the city of lanterns
Hoi An is one of the most well-known cities in Vietnam and one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam. The historic center of Hôi An is a World Heritage Site. However, the main attraction in this Vietnam city is the lantern show, which takes place everyday at sunset, but most importantly during Tet (the Lunar New Year).
Hanoi, more than 10 centuries of history
Hanoi is one of the best cities in Vietnam because it perfectly displays Vietnamese traditions and nature. Right in the centre is Hoan Kiem Lake. The Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, the unique Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, the Cathedral and the Citadel will allow you to analyse the evolution of this great city.
Sa Pa, the greenest of cities in Vietnam
You must visit the rice fields of Sa Pa, the iconic green Vietnamese terraces at 1,500 meters altitude where they grow rice. But Sa Pa is a meeting point between several ethnic minorities, and you will find a bustling street market where you can buy all kinds of handicrafts. If you like to get to know new cultures, this is the perfect place for you.
In addition, local women take tourists on guided tours. By the way, you can get to Sa Pa from Hanoi on the night train.
Nha Trang, a paradise by the sea
The former kingdom of Champa has become a very popular tourist area and one of the major cities in Vietnam to visit. In this city, 300,000 people live together with thousands of tourists. Its beaches are like a paradise because of their white sand and their crystal clear waters.
Thanks to its natural environment, it is possible to go hiking without problems. Do not forget to visit the 19 islands that surround it to discover the city from a much nicer point of view.
Dalat, Vietnam’s city of love
It is located between Saigon and the previous city. It was founded in the 19th century and is the favourite destination of Vietnamese couples for a romantic getaway. It is possible to visit its lake, its waterfalls, its cathedral and the Yersin Lyceum, among other monuments. In its surroundings are the Lang Biang mountains that honour two lovers.
Do not forget to go through the city market, one of the most interesting in Vietnam. Finish your stay in the Valley of Love, founded in 1935, where you can confirm your sentimental commitment. In the Crazy House you will find how a Gaudi fan has been able to create a house where imagination goes hand in hand with madness.
Can Tho, where modernity lies
It is one of the major cities in Vietnam thanks to its modern infrastructure. Located in the Mekong delta, it is a leader in the production of rice, so the landscape that surrounds it is as traditional as it is beautiful.
Do not forget to admire the bridge, the floating market of Cai Rang, the Nam Tha pagoda and the Bin Thuy temple. Surprise yourself with its contrasts.
Hue, the old limit
Hue used to be one of the biggest cities in Vietnam because it served as the border between North and South Vietnam during the war with the United States. It also was the capital city of Vietnam until 1945.
The best activities you can enjoy in Hue are a visit to the Imperial Citadel, the Elephant Springs and the Tu Hieu Pagoda.
Juan José Herranz
Hello! I'm Juan Jose, I'm from Extremadura, Spain.
I love to travel and share my experiences with other travellers who, like me, want to get to know and explore other places and cultures. In my articles I will give you tips on how to plan your trip, avoid mishaps and make the most of your time at your destination.
I'm more of a beach person than a mountain person. Destinations where I can surf and let myself be carried away by the waves are my favourite.
