Vietnam, a country renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, also boasts a vibrant and diverse urban tapestry. From the bustling metropolises of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the charming ancient towns of Hoi An and Hue, the best cities to visit in Vietnam offer a captivating blend of history, culture, cuisine, and modern development. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to exploring these urban gems, providing insights into their unique atmospheres, key attractions, recommended activities, and essential travel tips.
Delving into Vietnam’s urban heartbeat
Vietnam’s urban landscape is as varied and dynamic as its natural one. The country’s cities, ranging from the five centrally-controlled municipalities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hai Phong, and Can Tho) to the numerous provincial capitals and smaller urban centers, each offer a unique window into Vietnamese life. In total, Vietnam has a sophisticated system for classifying urban areas, including Special Class, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 and Class 5 Cities, reflecting different levels of development and population.
- A spectrum of urban experiences: Vietnam’s cities are far from homogenous. Each possesses its own distinct character, shaped by its history, geography, and the people who call it home. You’ll find ancient traditions thriving alongside modern skyscrapers, bustling markets overflowing with local produce, and tranquil lakes offering respite from the urban buzz.
- Historical echoes: Many of Vietnam’s cities have played pivotal roles in the country’s long and often turbulent history. This history is etched in the architecture, from French colonial buildings to ancient pagodas and imperial citadels, providing a tangible connection to the past.
- Economic engines: Vietnam’s major cities are the engines of its economic growth, driving innovation, trade, and development. The five centrally-controlled municipalities, in particular, are major economic hubs.
- Cultural hubs: Vietnamese cities are vibrant centers of culture, where art, music, theater, and cuisine flourish. From traditional water puppet shows in Hanoi to the vibrant street food scene in Ho Chi Minh City, there’s a constant pulse of creativity and cultural expression.
- Accessibility and connectivity: Vietnam’s major cities are well-connected by air, rail, and road, making them easily accessible for both domestic and international travelers. This connectivity facilitates exploration and allows visitors to experience the diverse facets of Vietnamese urban life.
The best cities to visit in Vietnam
This section delves into the best cities to visit in Vietnam, organized by region, providing detailed information on each destination.
Northern Vietnam: Ancient capitals and coastal charm
Northern Vietnam is home to the country’s capital, Hanoi, and the major port city of Hai Phong, both offering unique urban experiences.
Hanoi (Capital City): A thousand years of history
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and a Special Class city, masterfully blends ancient traditions with modern development, creating a captivating atmosphere. Its charming Old Quarter, with narrow streets and traditional trades, contrasts with French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, all surrounding tranquil oases like Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake.
Key attractions include the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, the Imperial Citadel (a UNESCO site), and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, while numerous museums offer insights into Vietnamese culture.
Popular activities revolve around exploring the historic areas, often by cyclo, indulging in Hanoi’s renowned cuisine – including pho, bun cha, and egg coffee – and experiencing the vibrant street food and coffee culture.
The best times to visit are autumn and spring for pleasant weather; visitors should also be mindful of traffic and potential scams.
READ MORE: Is Vietnam a safe country to visit?
Hai Phong: A port city with local charm
Hai Phong, a Class 1 city and one of Vietnam’s five centrally-controlled municipalities, is a major port offering a more authentic and less tourist-focused urban experience compared to Hanoi.
While retaining a more industrial feel, Hai Phong possesses its own charm with French colonial architecture and bustling markets, reflecting a strong local culture. Key attractions include Du Hang Pagoda, the Hai Phong Museum, and the Navy Museum, with nearby Do Son Beach and Cat Ba Island providing popular excursions.
Visitors can explore the city center, sample renowned seafood dishes like banh da cua and nem cua be, and use the city as a convenient base for exploring Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay.
Central Vietnam: Ancient towns, imperial cities and coastal delights
Central Vietnam boasts a trio of compelling urban destinations: Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Hoi An (Ancient Town): A UNESCO World Heritage gem
Hoi An, while officially part of Tam Ky city, functions as a distinct and captivating destination, primarily due to its exceptionally well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This pedestrian-friendly area exudes tranquility, with colorful lanterns illuminating historic streets lined with tailor shops, cafes, and traditional buildings. Key attractions include the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, well-preserved ancient houses like Tan Ky and Phung Hung, Chinese assembly halls, and museums showcasing local history and trade ceramics. Visitors enjoy strolling or cycling through the town, having custom clothing made, taking cooking classes, visiting nearby An Bang Beach, and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Hoi An is also renowned for its unique cuisine, featuring dishes like cao lau, mi quang, and white rose dumplings. The ideal time to visit is February to April for pleasant weather, though be prepared for crowds, especially during festivals.
Hue (Imperial City): A glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past
Hue, a Class 1 city and Vietnam’s former imperial capital, offers a relaxed atmosphere steeped in history and culture, distinct from the bustle of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The Perfume River gracefully flows through Hue, enhancing its tranquil charm.
Key attractions include the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, a vast complex of palaces and temples; the elaborate Tombs of Emperors Minh Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh; and the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Popular activities include exploring these historical sites, taking boat trips on the Perfume River, visiting Dong Ba Market, and cycling around the city.
Hue is also renowned for its refined cuisine, featuring dishes like bun bo Hue, banh beo, nem lui, and com hen. The most pleasant weather for visiting is typically during March to April and September to October.
Da Nang (Coastal City): A modern hub with a coastal vibe
Da Nang, a Special Class city and one of Vietnam’s five centrally-controlled municipalities, is a dynamic and rapidly developing coastal hub, serving as a gateway to Central Vietnam.
The city boasts a modern atmosphere, characterized by a growing skyline, wide boulevards, and a vibrant beach scene along My Khe Beach. Key attractions include the iconic fire-breathing Dragon Bridge, the Marble Mountains, the scenic Son Tra Peninsula, the Museum of Cham Sculpture, and a collection of impressive bridges spanning the Han River.
Popular activities include beach relaxation, exploring natural and cultural sites, enjoying the nightlife, and using Da Nang as a base for day trips to Hoi An and Hue. The city is known for its fresh seafood and local specialties like mi quang and banh xeo, and its well-developed airport offers convenient international connections.
Southern Vietnam: Bustling metropolises and delta life
Southern Vietnam is dominated by Ho Chi Minh City, a dynamic metropolis, and Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): The energetic heart of the south
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), a Special Class city and one of Vietnam’s five centrally-controlled municipalities, is the nation’s largest city and economic powerhouse, a vibrant and energetic metropolis that pulsates with a constant buzz of activity.
This melting pot of cultures blends French colonial architecture, such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, with modern skyscrapers, bustling markets like Ben Thanh, and a world-renowned street food scene. Key attractions include the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and the Bitexco Financial Tower’s skydeck, while popular activities range from exploring museums and historical sites to experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife and taking day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels or the Mekong Delta.
The city’s diverse culinary offerings include pho, banh mi, com tam, and goi cuon, alongside countless street food options. Visitors should be prepared for heavy traffic and exercise caution regarding potential scams, with the dry season (December-April) being the most favorable time to visit.
Can Tho (Mekong Delta): The heart of the delta
Can Tho, a Class 1 city and one of Vietnam’s five centrally-controlled municipalities, serves as the largest city and a major transportation hub in the Mekong Delta. The city possesses a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, deeply connected to the Hau River, with life revolving around its waterways, including the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest of its kind in the delta.
Other attractions include Ninh Kieu Wharf, offering river views, the well-preserved Binh Thuy Ancient House, and the Can Tho Museum, showcasing the region’s history and culture. Popular activities center on exploring the river and canals, with boat trips to the floating markets, visits to local orchards and farms, and cycling through the countryside being common choices.
Can Tho is also renowned for its fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Mekong Delta cuisine, with an early morning start being essential for experiencing the floating markets at their peak.
Dalat (Central Highlands)
Dalat, a Class 1 city nestled in the Central Highlands, is renowned as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its cool climate and picturesque setting amidst French colonial architecture, serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flower gardens.
Key attractions include the central Xuan Huong Lake, the extensive Dalat Flower Gardens, the eccentric Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse), the romantic Valley of Love, Datanla Waterfall, and the intricately decorated Linh Phuoc Pagoda. Popular activities revolve around enjoying the temperate weather, visiting the numerous gardens and waterfalls, exploring the city’s unique architectural heritage, and hiking in the surrounding hills.
Dalat is also known for its fresh produce, locally grown coffee, and artichoke tea. Due to its pleasant climate, it’s a popular weekend destination.
Emerging urban destinations
Beyond the well-established tourist destinations, several other Vietnamese cities are emerging as attractive options for travelers.
- Quy Nhon (Binh Dinh Province): A Class 1 coastal city with beautiful beaches, a growing tourism scene, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Nha Trang.
- Vung Tau (Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province): A Class 1 city and popular beach getaway near Ho Chi Minh City, known for its beaches and seafood.
- Phu Quoc City (Kien Giang Province): Located on Phu Quoc Island, this Class 2 city is rapidly developing as a major tourist destination, with luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches, and a growing range of attractions.
Travel tips for visiting Vietnamese cities
To make the most of your urban explorations in Vietnam, keep the following tips in mind
Transportation
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Vietnamese cities, but it’s important to agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is used. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are also popular and convenient.
- Motorbikes: Motorbikes are the most common mode of transportation in Vietnam, and renting one can be a fun and efficient way to get around. However, be aware of the chaotic traffic conditions and exercise extreme caution.
- Cyclo: Cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) are a tourist-oriented option, offering a slower and more leisurely way to see the sights in some cities, such as Hanoi and Hoi An.
- Buses: Public buses are an affordable way to travel within cities, but they can be crowded and challenging to navigate for non-Vietnamese speakers.
- Trains: Trains connect major cities in Vietnam, offering a comfortable and scenic way to travel between regions.
READ MORE: A full guide to transportation in Vietnam
Other tips
- Accommodation: Vietnamese cities offer a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxurious resorts.
- Visa requirements: Check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Vietnam. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or an e-visa.
- Currency: The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas.
- Language: The official language is Vietnamese. English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can be helpful.
- Safety: Vietnam is generally a safe country, but it’s important to be aware of petty theft, scams, and traffic hazards.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is a common practice in markets and shops, especially for souvenirs and tourist items.
- Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s cities are more than just collections of buildings; they are living, breathing entities that reflect the country’s history, culture, and aspirations. From the ancient charm of Hanoi and Hoi An to the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the tranquil beauty of Dalat, each city offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Exploring these urban centers, with their diverse attractions, delicious cuisine, and vibrant street life, is a journey into the heart and soul of Vietnam, revealing the country’s rich past, dynamic present, and promising future. And with dozens of officially recognized cities in Vietnam, there’s always a new urban adventure waiting to be discovered.