Vietnam's Major Cities

About Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly named and still also referred to as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It was once known as Prey Nokor, an important Khmer seaport prior to annexation by the Vietnamese in the 17C. Under the name Saigon, it was the capital of the French colony of Cochinchina and later of the independent republic of South Vietnam 1955–75. On 2 July 1976, Saigon merged with the surrounding Gia Dinh Province and was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City after revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. The city's attractions include the temples, several architectural landmarks, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and several museums.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly named and still also referred to as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It was once known as Prey Nokor, an important Khmer seaport prior to annexation by the Vietnamese in the 17C. Under the name Saigon, it was the capital of the French colony of Cochinchina and later of the independent republic of South Vietnam 1955–75. On 2 July 1976, Saigon merged with the surrounding Gia Dinh Province and was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City after revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. The city's attractions include the temples, several architectural landmarks, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and several museums.

About Dalat

Dalat is the capital of Lam Dong Province in Vietnam. The city is located 1,500m above sea level on the Langbian Plateau in the southern parts of the Central Highlands region. In Vietnam, Dalat is a popular tourist destination. Dalat's specific sights are pine wood (forming the name: "City of thousands of pine trees") with twisting roads and tree marigold (Vietnamese: da quy) blossom in the winter. The city’s temperate weather stands in contrast to Vietnam's otherwise tropical climate. Mist covering the valleys almost year-round leads to its name "City of Eternal Spring". Be sure to visit its market, temples, architectural gems, and more.

Dalat is the capital of Lam Dong Province in Vietnam. The city is located 1,500m above sea level on the Langbian Plateau in the southern parts of the Central Highlands region. In Vietnam, Dalat is a popular tourist destination. Dalat's specific sights are pine wood (forming the name: "City of thousands of pine trees") with twisting roads and tree marigold (Vietnamese: da quy) blossom in the winter. The city’s temperate weather stands in contrast to Vietnam's otherwise tropical climate. Mist covering the valleys almost year-round leads to its name "City of Eternal Spring". Be sure to visit its market, temples, architectural gems, and more.

About Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a coastal city and capital of Khanh Hpa Province, on the South Central Coast of Vietnam. Nha Trang is well known for its beaches and scuba diving and has developed into a popular destination for international tourists, attracting large numbers of backpackers, as well as more affluent travelers on the south-east Asia circuit; it is already very popular with Vietnamese tourists, with Nha Trang Bay widely considered as among the world's most beautiful bays. Tourists are welcome to participate in the Sea Festival, held biennially. Other attractions include a temple, a lovely seaside promenade, and a temple.

Nha Trang is a coastal city and capital of Khanh Hpa Province, on the South Central Coast of Vietnam. Nha Trang is well known for its beaches and scuba diving and has developed into a popular destination for international tourists, attracting large numbers of backpackers, as well as more affluent travelers on the south-east Asia circuit; it is already very popular with Vietnamese tourists, with Nha Trang Bay widely considered as among the world's most beautiful bays. Tourists are welcome to participate in the Sea Festival, held biennially. Other attractions include a temple, a lovely seaside promenade, and a temple.

About Hoi An

Hoi An, formerly Faifo, boasts a vibrant history as a thriving trade port in Southeast Asia dating back to the 15th century. As a flourishing hub for the trade of silk, spices, ceramics, and other goods, it drew merchants from the Philippines, China, Japan, and various European nations. The city's prosperity led to a unique blend of cultures that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. As the river's course shifted in the late 18th century, Hoi An's commercial prominence gradually declined. However, its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition, safeguarding its cultural legacy.

Hoi An, formerly Faifo, boasts a vibrant history as a thriving trade port in Southeast Asia dating back to the 15th century. As a flourishing hub for the trade of silk, spices, ceramics, and other goods, it drew merchants from the Philippines, China, Japan, and various European nations. The city's prosperity led to a unique blend of cultures that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. As the river's course shifted in the late 18th century, Hoi An's commercial prominence gradually declined. However, its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition, safeguarding its cultural legacy.

Today, Hoi An captivates visitors with its ancient town and architectural wonders, preserving the cultural influences of China, Japan, and France. The well-preserved streets are illuminated by lanterns, showcasing the city's cultural richness. Hoi An's ancient town is a popular destination, with tailor shops offering custom-made clothing and a vibrant culinary scene. The Thu Bon River originates from the majestic Ngoc Linh mountain peak, standing tall at about 8524 feet. In its upper reaches, it meanders as a narrow stream through the rugged mountains of Quang Nam province, gathering momentum until it gracefully meets the sea, forming a fertile estuary. The inhabitants on both banks of the Thu Bon River share a profound connection with this waterway, and, while they acknowledge its occasional turbulent character, the river is generally calm and enchanting. The Ancient Town: Explore the well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the charming yellow buildings, streets, and the centuries-old historic houses. The Japanese Covered Bridge: Explore the 18th-century Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic symbol of Hoi An. It's not just an architectural wonder but also has historical significance. Assembly Halls: Discover the Assembly Halls, such as the Fujian Chinese Assembly Hall, Cantonese Chinese Assembly Hall, and others. They provide insights into the city's rich cultural heritage. Tailors: Hoi An is renowned for its tailor shops. Even if you don't plan to make a purchase, it is fun to browse through the shops. Additionally, the lantern-lit streets create a magical atmosphere in the evening. Beach Time: Head to An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach for relaxation by the sea. Enjoy the sun, sand, and tranquil atmosphere. Markets Hoi An Night Market: Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of this vibrant market, brimming with an array of wares, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and local handicrafts. It's also a great place to enjoy street food. Central Market (Cho Hoi An): This is a daytime market where locals buy fresh produce, meat, seafood, and household items. It's slightly less touristy than the night market and provides a more authentic glimpse into daily life. Dong Ba Market: Located in Hue, not far from Hoi An, Dong Ba Market is famous for its diverse range of goods, from food and spices to clothing and handicrafts. Museums Hoi An Museum of History and Culture: Explore a diverse array of artwork, featuring photographs of local architecture, ceramics, and pottery depicting the changing face of Hoi An, encompassing periods such as the Champa era (7th to 15th centuries) and the Da Viet period (15th to 19th centuries). The museum is located in Vietnam's oldest pagoda, erected in 1653. It houses artifacts spanning 2,000 years of Hoi An's history, including insights into traditional burial rituals with numerous ancient burial urns. Museum of Trade Ceramics: This small museum showcases a collection of pottery and ceramics from various Asian cultures, providing insights into the historical significance of ceramics in Hoi An's trading history. The Folklore Museum (Museum of Folk Culture): Situated within a meticulously restored traditional house, this museum displays artifacts and exhibits related to the folklore, traditions, and the daily life of the Vietnamese people. It provides a fascinating glimpse into traditional Vietnamese culture. Tours Biking or Walking Tours: Whether you choose to rent bikes or embark on a walking tour, explore the rural areas or stroll along the riverbanks. Enjoy glimpses of village life, picturesque rice fields, and scenic landscapes. Boat Trip along Thu Bon River: For a picturesque experience, set sail on a boat trip along the Thu Bon River, especially during the magical sunset.  My Son Sanctuary Tour: Discover the UNESCO-recognized My Son Sanctuary, featuring ancient Hindu temples. Gain insights into the history and architecture of the Champa Kingdom. A full-day tour across the Thu Bon River provides one of the most authentic ways to explore the region's rich culture. Thu Bon River Festival: A visit during the Thu Bon Festival can be an exciting experience for tourists. Celebrated annually on the 12th lunar day of February, the festival honors the "Mother River" for its bountiful harvests and ensuring a safe life along its waters. Additionally, on the 14th day of each lunar month, people float lanterns with candles as a wishful gesture. Traditional Craft Villages: Delve into nearby traditional craft villages such as Thanh Ha Pottery Village, renowned for its abundant production of local ethnic ceramics. Alternatively, explore Kim Bong Carpentry Village to witness skilled artisans at work and gain insights into traditional handicrafts. Marble Mountains Tour: Visit the Marble Mountains near Da Nang, a cluster of five hills with caves, temples, and panoramic views. Cham Island Tour: Explore Cham Island, a biosphere reserve recognized by UNESCO, known for its beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and diving. Hue City Tour: Explore the historical sites of this former imperial capital of Vietnam, such as the Imperial City, royal tombs, and Thien Mu Pagoda. Motorbike Tours: For adventure seekers, consider a motorbike tour to explore hidden destinations, beaches, and rural areas off the beaten paths. These tours offer a variety of cultural experiences and exploration of natural beauty. You can easily find tour operators offering these tours, and they can be pre-booked for your convenience. Food Pho: Vietnamese noodle soup made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and either beef or chicken. It's a staple ingredient and a must-try. Banh Mi: A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette filled with various ingredients like meats, pickled vegetables, pate, and fresh herbs. Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and a dipping sauce. Cao Lau: A unique dish featuring noodles, pork, and local greens, often with a distinctive taste due to the water used in its preparation. Banh Xeo: Savory pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, often eaten with fresh lettuce and dipping sauce. Goi Cuon: Transparent rice paper rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, and vermicelli, served with a peanut dipping sauce. Com Tam: Rice served with grilled pork, egg, and a variety of toppings. Vietnamese Coffee: Strong and often sweetened with condensed milk, it's a delight for coffee lovers. Street Food: Wander through local street markets to taste various snacks like grilled skewers, hearty sandwiches, and fresh fruits. Cooking Classes: Enhance your culinary skills by joining a cooking class to master the art of crafting these delightful dishes. Immerse yourself in the fun and immersive experience, discovering the flavors and aromas that play a significant role in Vietnamese culture.

About Hue

Hue is the capital city of Thua Thien–Hue Province, Vietnam. Hue is well known for its historic monuments, which have earned it a place in UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. The seat of the Nguyen emperors was the Imperial City, which occupies a large, walled area on the north side of the Perfume River. Inside the citadel was a forbidden city where only the emperors, concubines, and those close enough to them were granted access. Today, little of the forbidden city remains, though reconstruction efforts are in progress to maintain it as a historic tourist attraction. Other notable attractions include temples, museums, a market, and more.

Hue is the capital city of Thua Thien–Hue Province, Vietnam. Hue is well known for its historic monuments, which have earned it a place in UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. The seat of the Nguyen emperors was the Imperial City, which occupies a large, walled area on the north side of the Perfume River. Inside the citadel was a forbidden city where only the emperors, concubines, and those close enough to them were granted access. Today, little of the forbidden city remains, though reconstruction efforts are in progress to maintain it as a historic tourist attraction. Other notable attractions include temples, museums, a market, and more.

About Ha Long

Ha Long is the capital city of Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam. Ha Long city was created when the old capital, Hon Gai, was merged with Bai Chay – the main tourist area. The city mainly lies on Hạ Long Bay. The city's economy has recently switched from coal mining to tourism, due to the large number of visitors drawn by the Hạ Long Islets every year. At present, Hạ Long is experiencing rapid growth not only in tourism sphere, but as a place upon the main road to southern China. Its main attractions include the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, as well as the local vibrant night market.

Ha Long is the capital city of Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam. Ha Long city was created when the old capital, Hon Gai, was merged with Bai Chay – the main tourist area. The city mainly lies on Hạ Long Bay. The city's economy has recently switched from coal mining to tourism, due to the large number of visitors drawn by the Hạ Long Islets every year. At present, Hạ Long is experiencing rapid growth not only in tourism sphere, but as a place upon the main road to southern China. Its main attractions include the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, as well as the local vibrant night market.

About Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and the country's second largest city. From 1010 until 1802, it was the most important political center of Vietnam. It was eclipsed by Hue, the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945), but Hanoi served as the capital of French Indochina from 1902 to 1954. From 1954 to 1976, it was the capital of North Vietnam, and it became the capital of a reunified Vietnam in 1976, after the North's victory in the Vietnam War. The city lies on the right bank of the Red River. On your visit, be sure to see Hanoi's markets, museums, temples, and historic landmarks.

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and the country's second largest city. From 1010 until 1802, it was the most important political center of Vietnam. It was eclipsed by Hue, the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945), but Hanoi served as the capital of French Indochina from 1902 to 1954. From 1954 to 1976, it was the capital of North Vietnam, and it became the capital of a reunified Vietnam in 1976, after the North's victory in the Vietnam War. The city lies on the right bank of the Red River. On your visit, be sure to see Hanoi's markets, museums, temples, and historic landmarks.