Top 10 Most Photographed Places in Vietnam

Vietnam is a colorful tapestry where majestic nature, ancient towns, and vibrant culture blend together to create unforgettable moments. During my journey, I spent days exploring the country’s most iconic photography spots — places where every corner tells a story, and every frame feels alive.

1. Hoi An Ancient Town – The Lantern City of Dreams

Hoi An appeared before me like a living watercolor painting — yellow-tiled houses, red lanterns hanging along narrow streets, and the tranquil Hoai River gliding by. As I wandered through the alleys, I was surrounded by the scent of cao lau, banh mi, and egg coffee. When night fell, hundreds of lanterns reflected on the river, creating a dreamy glow that made every photo feel magical.

Highlight Experiences: Release floating lanterns on the Hoai River, stroll through lantern-lit alleys.

Travel Tip: Spend 1–2 days to explore the old town.

Pro Tip: Use a tripod at night for sharp lantern photos; try low angles for water reflections.

2. Halong Bay – A Natural Wonder of the World

Halong Bay greeted me with thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters. At dawn, as mist lingered over the bay, I glided on a boat past floating villages and hidden caves. Kayaking through the calm waters and watching the sunrise paint the cliffs gold made every photo surreal.

Highlight Experiences: Kayaking, exploring Sung Sot Cave, sunrise photography.

Travel Tip: Two days is ideal to visit multiple caves and fishing villages.

Pro Tip: Shoot in early morning or late afternoon; use a polarizing filter for vivid water and rocks.

3. Fansipan Mountain – The Roof of Indochina

The summit of Fansipan emerges from a sea of clouds, surrounded by rolling mountains and crisp air. After a cable car ride and a short hike, I reached the peak, where all of Sa Pa spread beneath me — terraced fields, valleys, and villages shrouded in mist. Each moment there felt ethereal and worth capturing.

Highlight Experiences: Light trekking, panoramic photos of Sa Pa.

Travel Tip: Visit in spring or autumn to avoid rain and fog.

Pro Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture clouds and peaks; early morning light is best for panoramas.

4. Golden Bridge – Ba Na Hills, Da Nang

The Golden Bridge, held up by two giant stone hands, looked like something from a fairytale. As I walked across in the morning fog, the soft light and mountain mist created a mystical, dreamlike atmosphere. Every corner offered a perfect shot — a blend of art and nature.

Highlight Experiences: Explore Ba Na Hills, photograph the mist over the bridge.

Travel Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and catch the morning glow.

Pro Tip: Shoot from a low angle to emphasize the giant hands; use an ND filter for a misty effect.

5. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha captivated me with its mysterious caves, underground rivers, and lush forests. Sailing through Dark Cave and Hang En, I captured shimmering stalactites and emerald streams. The serenity of nature here made every frame breathe life.

Highlight Experiences: Cave exploration, underground river photography.

Travel Tip: Spend 1–2 days to explore the national park fully.

Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof camera and flash; wide shots best capture the cave’s scale.

6. Hue Imperial City – Timeless Elegance

Hue welcomed me with the quiet dignity of its Imperial Citadel, Nguyen dynasty tombs, and the tranquil Perfume River. As sunlight filtered through ancient gates and mossy walls, each photo carried a nostalgic beauty. Hue isn’t just about architecture — it’s about rhythm, stories, and the gentle grace of its people.

Highlight Experiences: Visit the Imperial Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and shoot sunrise on the Perfume River.

Travel Tip: Morning and late afternoon provide the best light.

Pro Tip: Use wide angles to include architecture; add a human subject for depth and emotion.

7. Lan Ha Bay – Halong’s Peaceful Neighbor

Lan Ha Bay, with its emerald waters and untouched islands, felt like a hidden paradise. I kayaked, swam, and watched the sunrise shimmer between limestone peaks — every shot looked like a painting.

Highlight Experiences: Kayaking, swimming, sunrise photography.

Travel Tip: Visit between November and April for clear water and calm weather.

Pro Tip: Use a drone for stunning aerial island views.

8. Nha Trang Bay – Where Blue Meets Beauty

The turquoise waters and soft white sands of Nha Trang are irresistible. I joined a boat tour, snorkeled among coral reefs, and captured the fiery hues of sunset over the sea — moments that felt both peaceful and vibrant.

Highlight Experiences: Snorkeling, sunset photography, island-hopping.

Travel Tip: Spend 1–2 days exploring nearby islands.

Pro Tip: Use filters during sunset to make the sky and sea colors pop.

9. Da Lat – The City of Eternal Spring

Da Lat enchanted me with pine forests, hydrangea gardens, and the serene Xuan Huong Lake. I wandered winding roads, photographed blooming flowers, and stayed in vintage homestays. Every image carried a soft, romantic touch — like a scene from a storybook.

Highlight Experiences: Cherry blossoms, hydrangea fields, Xuan Huong Lake, charming homestays.

Travel Tip: Spend 2–3 days to capture the best of Da Lat.

Pro Tip: Shoot during golden hour for dreamy lighting; drone shots reveal the lake’s full beauty.

10. Sapa – Terraces of Tranquility

Sapa amazed me with its terraced rice fields, misty peaks, and ethnic villages. I trekked along winding trails, captured sunrise over the hills, and photographed farmers tending their fields — moments both powerful and poetic.

Highlight Experiences: Terraced rice fields, ethnic villages, mountain sunrise.

Travel Tip: Spend at least two days trekking through villages.

Pro Tip: Visit during harvest season or misty mornings; use a tripod for panoramic shots.