Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Vietnam for First-Time Travellers

 

Explore Vietnam like never before with this beginner-friendly travel guide

Vietnam isn’t just a country—it’s an unforgettable journey through vibrant street life, breathtaking landscapes, soulful traditions, and delicious food. From the misty mountains of Sapa to the sparkling waters of Halong Bay, Vietnam has something for everyone, so whether you're searching for Vietnam travel packages or Vietnam adventure tour or Vietnam best travel itinerary for the first-travellers, then you're in the right place. Whether you're a solo backpacker, a honeymooning couple, or a family with kids, the country offers diverse experiences wrapped in culture, adventure, and hospitality.

Planning your first trip? This guide to the Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Vietnam will help you cover the essentials while leaving room for discovery. So, if you are looking for holiday deals or packages for Vietnam then this blog is for you.

 

1. Hanoi – The Cultural Capital of Vietnam

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by KAYAK

Welcome to Hanoi, where ancient temples, colonial buildings, and buzzing scooters create a mesmerizing mix of old and new. It’s the perfect starting point to experience Vietnam’s charm.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Entry Fees: Most sites are free or under 50,000 VND
• How to Reach: Land at Noi Bai International Airport and head to the Old Quarter

Insider Tip: Start your morning with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and watch locals practicing Tai Chi.

Must Try: Bun Cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien & Vietnamese egg coffee at Giang Café

Recommended Tour: Full-Day Hanoi City Tour

 

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by Paradise Vietnam Cruises

Sail through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, surrounded by dramatic limestone islands. It’s a must-do UNESCO-listed destination for every first-time traveler.

• Best Time to Visit: March–June & October–November
• Entry Fees: Approx. 250,000 VND
• How to Reach: 2.5 hours by road from Hanoi

Insider Tip: Book an overnight cruise for magical sunsets and sunrises.

 

Recommended Cruises:

✔ Halong Bay Day Cruise

✔ 1N2D/2N3D Overnight Cruises

 

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by Tripadvisor

Known as "Halong Bay on land," Ninh Binh boasts peaceful waterways, towering cliffs, and ancient temples. A great escape from the city’s hustle.

• Best Time to Visit: April–June & September–October
• Entry Fees: Usually under 100,000 VND
• How to Reach: 2 hours from Hanoi by car or train

Insider Tip: Avoid boat rides at noon – mornings or late afternoons are better.

Recommended Tour: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Tam Coc & Bai Dinh Combo

 

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by TripSavvy

Formerly Saigon, this city blends modern skyscrapers with colonial architecture and war history. It's a foodie's paradise and the heartbeat of the south.

• Best Time to Visit: December–March
• Entry Fees: War Museum – 40,000 VND
• How to Reach: Fly into Tan Son Nhat Airport

Insider Tip: Explore Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and street eats.

Recommended Activities:

✔ Half-Day City Tour

✔ Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Combo

 

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by Vietnamtour.in

Step back in time in Hoi An. Lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, riverside cafés, and vibrant night markets make this UNESCO town an unmissable stop.

• Best Time to Visit: February–April
• Entry Fees: 120,000 VND (Ancient Town ticket)
• How to Reach: Fly to Da Nang, then 45-min drive

Insider Tip: Time your visit during the full moon to see the magical Lantern Festival.

Recommended Experiences:

✔ Marble Mountains + Hoi An City

✔ Coconut Boat Ride in the Cam Thanh Forest

 

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by Montogomerie Links Golf Club

A modern beach city with laid-back vibes and eye-catching attractions like the Golden Bridge. Ideal for combining beach, nature, and city fun.

• Best Time to Visit: March–August
• Entry Fees: Beaches – Free; Golden Bridge via Ba Na Hills ticket
• How to Reach: Flights from all major cities

Insider Tip: Get to Ba Na Hills early to beat the tourist rush.

Recommended Tour: Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge Excursion

 

7. Hue – Vietnam’s Imperial Past

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by Local Vietnam

Hue takes you back to Vietnam's royal days with ancient palaces, citadels, and tombs along the Perfume River.

• Best Time to Visit: January–April
• Entry Fees: Citadel – Around 150,000 VND
• How to Reach: 2 hours from Da Nang or train from Hanoi

Insider Tip: Hire a local guide for Citadel tours – stories make the visit come alive.

Don’t Miss: Dong Ba Market for traditional dishes

 

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by BucketListly Blog

Tucked in Vietnam’s north, Sapa is a haven for nature lovers and trekkers. Terraced fields and ethnic villages offer serene getaways.

• Best Time to Visit: March–May, September–November
• Entry Fees: Depending on trekking areas
• How to Reach: Overnight train or bus from Hanoi

Insider Tip: Stay with local families to experience hill tribe life.

 

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by Time Out

Need a beach break? Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s answer to a tropical paradise—perfect for couples, honeymooners, or lazy beach days.

• Best Time to Visit: November–March
• Entry Fees: Most beaches are free; parks may charge
• How to Reach: Direct flights from Hanoi or HCMC

Insider Tip: Head to Dinh Cau Night Market for fresh seafood and local snacks.

 

10.  Mekong Delta – Floating Markets & River Life

 

 

Image Credit: Google Images – Image by Rainforest Cruises

Life flows with the river here—floating markets, lush fruit farms, and authentic countryside vibes await in the Mekong Delta.

• Best Time to Visit: November–February
• Entry Fees: Based on tours or boat rentals
• How to Reach: 2-3 hours from Ho Chi Minh City

Insider Tip: Bring sun protection for daytime boat rides.

Recommended Tour: Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour

 

From historic cities to island hideaways, Vietnam is an unforgettable blend of adventure and peace. At BreakBag Holidays, we make your travel seamless with handpicked Vietnam Tour Packages, including stays, transfers, guided tours, and expert planning. So, no matter from where you're, plan your package for Vietnam from Mumbai or Pune or Kolkata or from anywhere with ample amount of ease and satisfaction with BreakBag.

 

 

Q1. When’s the best time to visit Vietnam?

A: October to April is ideal for weather across most regions.

 

Q2. Is it safe to travel solo, especially for women?

A: Yes, it’s safe! Stay alert and use common travel precautions.

 

Q3. What currency should I carry?

A: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency.

 

Q4. Do Indian travellers need a visa?

A: Yes, Indians can easily apply for an e-visa online.

 

Q5. Can vegetarians find food in Vietnam?

A: Absolutely! Cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Hoi An have plenty of vegetarian options.