Ban Gioc Waterfall
Cao Bang Province
A stunning remote waterfall offering ethereal natural beauty away from crowds.
Logistics: Accessible via a 6-hour drive from Hanoi.
Updated: 2025-09
Highlights
Vietnam — Top 10 Highlights
Explore the essentials of Vietnam with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.
Why go — quick legend
- Ha Long Bay — Admire stunning limestone karsts and islets while cruisin…
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park — Explore vast caves and enjoy the biodiversity of a UNESCO…
- My Son Sanctuary — Experience ancient Cham architecture amidst lush greenery…
- Hoi An Ancient Town — Stroll through charming streets filled with historic buil…
- Hue Imperial City — Discover Vietnam's imperial history through its palaces, …
- Cu Chi Tunnels — Explore the strategic underground network used by Viet Co…
- Sa Pa Terraces — Witness stunning rice terraces and interact with diverse …
- Cao Dai Temple — Marvel at the vibrant architecture and experience the uni…
- War Remnants Museum — Gain insights into the Vietnam War through poignant exhib…
- Thien Mu Pagoda — Visit the iconic seven-story pagoda with stunning views o…
Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.
Legend
Why go — quick legend
- Ha Long Bay — Admire stunning limestone karsts and islets while cruisin…
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park — Explore vast caves and enjoy the biodiversity of a UNESCO…
- My Son Sanctuary — Experience ancient Cham architecture amidst lush greenery…
- Hoi An Ancient Town — Stroll through charming streets filled with historic buil…
- Hue Imperial City — Discover Vietnam's imperial history through its palaces, …
- Cu Chi Tunnels — Explore the strategic underground network used by Viet Co…
- Sa Pa Terraces — Witness stunning rice terraces and interact with diverse …
- Cao Dai Temple — Marvel at the vibrant architecture and experience the uni…
- War Remnants Museum — Gain insights into the Vietnam War through poignant exhib…
- Thien Mu Pagoda — Visit the iconic seven-story pagoda with stunning views o…
Vietnam — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)
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| # / Name | Why go | Significance | Since | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hạ Long · Quảng Ninh Province | Admire stunning limestone karsts and islets while cruising the serene waters of a UNESCO World Heritage site. | Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO site known for its unique geological formations and rich cultural folklore. | — | Cultural Heritage |
Bố Trạch District · Quảng Trị Province | Explore vast caves and enjoy the biodiversity of a UNESCO-listed natural marvel. | Notable for its enormous limestone caves, the park helps preserve crucial ecosystems and geological history. | — | Cultural Heritage |
Đà Nẵng | Experience ancient Cham architecture amidst lush greenery at this spiritual and historical site. | A sacred site showcasing Cham architecture, it reflects the cultural interactions between the Champa Kingdom and Hinduism. | 4th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Hội An | Stroll through charming streets filled with historic buildings, lanterns, and cultural diversity. | A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An reflects a fusion of indigenous and foreign influences over centuries. | 15th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Huế · Huế | Discover Vietnam's imperial history through its palaces, pagodas, and unique architecture. | Once Vietnam's capital, it represents the pinnacle of Nguyen Dynasty power and Buddhist cultural heritage. | 1802 | Outdoor |
Ho Chi Minh City | Explore the strategic underground network used by Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. | Critical site for understanding Vietnam War tactics and the resilience of the Vietnamese fighters. | 1960s | Outdoor |
Sa Pa · Lào Cai Province | Witness stunning rice terraces and interact with diverse ethnic communities. | A unique cultural mosaic and a testament to the agricultural ingenuity of Vietnam's ethnic minorities. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Phường Bình Minh · Tây Ninh Province | Marvel at the vibrant architecture and experience the unique Cao Dai faith. | Symbol of religious syncretism, representing a diverse spiritual and cultural movement in Vietnam. | 1930s | Cultural Heritage |
Thủ Đức | Gain insights into the Vietnam War through poignant exhibits. | Houses significant artifacts and stories, preserving vital historical perspectives on Vietnam's war history. | 1975 | Museum |
Huế · Huế | Visit the iconic seven-story pagoda with stunning views over Hu. | A historic and spiritual symbol of Hu, reflecting Vietnam's rich religious heritage. | 1601 | Outdoor |
“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.
Explore by province
Click a city to open its highlights page. Provinces appear only when at least one city exists.
Hidden gems · Insider picks
Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special
Phong Nha Botanical Garden
Quang Binh Province
A hidden gem for nature lovers, featuring diverse flora and fauna in a lesser-known area.
Logistics: Located near the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
Updated: 2025-09
Bai Tu Long Bay
Quang Ninh Province
A tranquil alternative to Ha Long Bay with unspoiled scenic views.
Logistics: Accessible by boat tours from Hon Gai harbor.
Updated: 2025-09
When to go
Northern VietnamMar–May, Sep–Nov: Experience pleasant weather ideal for trekking in Sapa and exploring Hanoi's cultural sites, with manageable crowds and budget–friendly travel.
Central VietnamFeb–May: Enjoy optimum beach weather in Da Nang and Hoi An, while avoiding the peak tourist season and benefiting from seaside serenity.
Southern VietnamDec–Apr: Relish the dry and cooler months perfect for urban exploration in Ho Chi Minh City and leisure time in the Mekong Delta's water activities.
HighlandsNov–Feb: Bask in the cooler climate of Da Lat, well–suited for flower festivals and alpine activities away from coastal humidity.
Coastal AreasApr–Sep: Sunbathe and partake in water sports along Vietnam's stunning coastline, with warm waters and long daylight hours being prevalent.
Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.
Safety: practical snapshot
Overall call
Vietnam is generally safe for travelers with basic precautions.
- Petty theft in crowded areas.
- Traffic accidents are common.
- Occasional flooding in rainy season.
- Beach hazards, like jellyfish.
How to travel it safely
- Keep valuables secure in crowds.
- Wear helmets when riding motorbikes.
- Check weather before outdoor activities.
- Avoid scams by using official operators.
- Stay hydrated to cope with heat.
- Use trusted transportation services.
- Learn basic Vietnamese phrases.
- Respect local customs and dress codes.
Emergency: Always have local emergency contacts saved.
Information is subject to change; verify locally.