With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Vietnam is fast becoming a favourite international destination for Indian travellers. Whether you’re craving an adventurous escape, a beach holiday, or a cultural deep dive, Vietnam offers something for everyone. 🏞️✈️
From the limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and from the highlands of Sapa to the buzzing vibe of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s diversity is astonishing. Add to that its affordability, warm hospitality, and growing flight connectivity from India, and you have the perfect recipe for your next international vacation.
Top Places to Visit in Vietnam 🏞️
Here are the must-visit destinations in Vietnam, along with what to do there and how to reach each spot.
1. Hanoi – The Charming Capital 🛕
Why Visit:
Hanoi is a beautiful blend of French colonial heritage, ancient temples, and vibrant street life. It’s the gateway to northern Vietnam and a great base for exploring nearby destinations.
Top Things to Do:
- Explore the Old Quarter with its narrow streets and buzzing markets.
- Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.
- Watch a traditional water puppet show.
- Discover history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison.
- Sip authentic egg coffee at a local cafe.
How to Reach:
Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport is well connected with major Vietnamese cities. From the airport, take a taxi or bus to the city centre (about 40 minutes).
2. Halong Bay – UNESCO World Heritage Site 🏛️
Why Visit:
Known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands, Halong Bay is a visual masterpiece and a top destination for nature lovers and honeymooners.
Top Things to Do:
- Go on an overnight cruise through the bay.
- Explore hidden caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) and Thien Cung.
- Kayak through floating fishing villages.
- Try squid fishing at night on the cruise.
How to Reach:
Halong Bay is about 2.5 to 3 hours by road from Hanoi. You can book a shuttle bus, a private taxi, or a package tour with transport included.
3. Hoi An – The City of Lanterns 🏮
Why Visit:
A former trading port, Hoi An is a delightful town with preserved architecture, vibrant markets, and a serene riverside setting.
Top Things to Do:
- Stroll through the Ancient Town, especially in the evening under the lantern lights.
- Get tailor-made outfits from local boutiques.
- Join a Vietnamese cooking class.
- Visit An Bang Beach for a relaxing afternoon.
- Celebrate the Full Moon Festival with local performances and floating lanterns.
How to Reach:
Fly into Da Nang International Airport, then take a 45-minute taxi or shuttle to Hoi An.
Book flights to Vietnam on Paytm.
4. Da Nang – Beaches and Marble Mountains ⛰️
Why Visit:
Located on the central coast, Da Nang is known for its sandy beaches, modern city vibes, and easy access to both Hoi An and Hue.
Top Things to Do:
- Relax on My Khe Beach.
- Visit the Marble Mountains for panoramic views.
- Walk across the iconic Golden Bridge (held by giant hands) in Ba Na Hills.
- Explore the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire on weekend nights.
How to Reach:
Da Nang is easily accessible via domestic and international flights. It’s well connected with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An.
5. Hue – Vietnam’s Imperial Past 🛕
Why Visit:
Hue was the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty and is full of palaces, tombs, and temples.
Top Things to Do:
- Tour the Imperial City (Citadel).
- Cruise on the Perfume River.
- Visit the Tombs of the Emperors, such as Khai Dinh and Minh Mang.
- Try local delicacies like Bun Bo Hue.
How to Reach:
Hue has its own Phu Bai International Airport. Alternatively, take a scenic train or bus from Da Nang (about 2-3 hours).
6. Sapa – Rice Terraces and Ethnic Culture 🤩
Why Visit:
Nestled in the mountains of northern Vietnam, Sapa is famous for its terraced rice fields, cool climate, and ethnic minority villages.
Top Things to Do:
- Trek to Cat Cat, Lao Chai, and Ta Van villages.
- Marvel at Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Indochina (take the cable car!).
- Visit local Hmong and Dao markets.
How to Reach:
Take a sleeper train or bus from Hanoi to Lao Cai (8-10 hours), then a short drive to Sapa.
7. Ninh Binh – Inland Halong Bay 🕍
Why Visit:
Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land”, Ninh Binh is known for its karst landscapes, rice paddies, and ancient temples.
Top Things to Do:
- Boat ride at Tam Coc or Trang An.
- Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
- Hike up to Mua Cave Viewpoint for stunning valley views.
- Explore Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest in Vietnam.
How to Reach:
About 2 hours by train or car from Hanoi.
8. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Bustling Metropolis 🖼️
Why Visit:
Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City, is a whirlwind of energy, food, shopping, and history.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace.
- Explore Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and street food.
- Take a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels.
- Enjoy rooftop views from Bitexco Tower.
How to Reach:
Fly directly into Tan Son Nhat International Airport, which has direct flights from many cities in Asia.
9. Phu Quoc – Vietnam’s Island Paradise 🏝️
Why Visit:
If you’re looking for beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical vibes, Phu Quoc is your answer.
Top Things to Do:
- Snorkel at Sao Beach and An Thoi Islands.
- Visit the Phu Quoc Night Market.
- Explore Phu Quoc National Park.
- Ride the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car.
How to Reach:
Fly directly to Phu Quoc International Airport from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
How to Reach Vietnam from India ✈️
There are several direct and connecting flights from India to Vietnam. Popular departure cities include Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
Direct Flights:
- IndiGo and Vietnam Airlines operate direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Flight time: ~4.5 to 6 hours.
Popular Connecting Options:
- Airlines such as Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, and Scoot offer 1-stop flights via Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.
Tip: Book early for the best fares, especially during peak travel seasons like Diwali, Christmas, and summer holidays.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s climate varies by region, but here’s a general guide:
🏝 North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay):
- Best Time: October to April
- Pleasant weather, great for outdoor travel and treks.
☀️ Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue):
- Best Time: February to August
- Dry and sunny, perfect for beach trips and city tours.
🌧️ South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc):
- Best Time: November to April
- Warm and dry, ideal for island hopping and sightseeing.
Detailed guide to best time to visit Vietnam
Conclusion
From ancient temples and floating markets to beaches, caves, and buzzing cities, Vietnam promises an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re an adventurer, culture lover, foodie, or nature enthusiast, Vietnam has a place for you.
✈️ Ready to Explore Vietnam?
Plan your trip now and book your flights to Vietnam on Paytm Travel. Find the best deals, flexible options, and secure payments all in one place.
👉 Start exploring Vietnam today and let the adventure begin!
Book flights to Vietnam on Paytm.
