Top 8 Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam: Urban Adventures

When people think of Vietnam, they often imagine emerald rice terraces, limestone bays, and ancient temples. But to truly feel the heartbeat of this country, you have to visit its cities — where the past, present, and future collide in fascinating harmony.

After months of traveling from the thousand-year-old streets of Hanoi to the buzzing energy of Saigon, I’ve rounded up the 8 best cities in Vietnam you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

1. Hanoi – The Timeless Heart of Vietnam

Hanoi is a charming blend of history and modern life. I still remember mornings strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, watching locals practice tai chi, and hearing the soft clang of a street vendor’s cart. By night, Ta Hien Street comes alive with laughter, plastic stools, and cold local beer.

Region: Northern Vietnam

Highlights: Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, street food culture

Best time to visit: September – November

Tip: Try pho bo (beef noodle soup), bun cha, and simply wander the Old Quarter to feel the city’s never-ending rhythm.

2. Ha Long – The City by the World’s Wonder Bay

Standing on the deck of a cruise, surrounded by thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters, feels like stepping into a fantasy film. Ha Long City isn’t just about the bay — it also offers fun attractions like Sun World, Bai Chay Beach, and some of the best seafood in northern Vietnam.

Region: Northeastern Vietnam

Highlights: UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, luxury cruises, fresh seafood

Best time to visit: May – October

Tip: Spend a night aboard a cruise to watch sunrise over the bay — it’s magical.

3. Hue – The City of Royal Legacy and Poetry

Hue exudes quiet elegance and nostalgia. One of my favorite memories is gliding along the Perfume River at night, listening to traditional Hue music while the ancient citadel glows softly in the distance. The cuisine here is delicate yet bold — from spicy bun bo Hue to tiny, flavorful banh beo.

Region: Central Vietnam

Highlights: Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, Perfume River, court music

Best time to visit: March – May

Tip: Stay at least two days to explore both the royal heritage and the street food scene

4. Da Nang – The City of Bridges

If Hanoi reflects Vietnam’s past and Hue its serenity, Da Nang represents the future — clean, dynamic, and full of life. I loved jogging along My Khe Beach at sunrise, surrounded by locals exercising and kids playing in the waves. On weekends, the Dragon Bridge breathes fire, lighting up the skyline.

Region: Central Vietnam

Highlights: Dragon Bridge, Ba Na Hills, My Khe Beach

Best time to visit: May – August

Tip: Da Nang is perfectly located — just 30 minutes to Hoi An and 2 hours to Hue

5. Hoi An – A Fairytale Town by the River

Hoi An at night is pure magic — thousands of colorful lanterns, gentle boats gliding on the Thu Bon River, and music drifting from old cafes. I once wrote a postcard in a cozy tea shop here and mailed it home — a small way to freeze the moment in time.

Region: Central Vietnam

Highlights: Ancient Town, lanterns, night market, local specialties (cao lau, banh mi)

Best time to visit: February – April

Tip: Explore the Old Town in the morning for peace, and at night, release a paper lantern on the river for good luck

6. Nha Trang – Vietnam’s Sun-Kissed Coastal City

Nha Trang reminds me of Barcelona or Nice — a lively seaside city filled with sunshine, nightlife, and water adventures. I went scuba diving at Hon Mun Island, surrounded by coral reefs so vivid they felt unreal.

Region: Khanh Hoa

Highlights: Nha Trang Beach, Hon Mun Island, VinWonders, Po Nagar Towers

Best time to visit: March – September

Tip: Don’t miss bun cha ca (fish cake noodles) and the night seafood markets

7. Da Lat – The Little Paris of the Highlands

Da Lat is Vietnam’s most romantic city. Misty mornings, golden noon sunshine, and chilly nights create a dreamy atmosphere. I sipped arabica coffee at a small wooden café overlooking the green valley — a simple moment of peace.

Region: Lam Dong

Highlights: Xuan Huong Lake, Valley of Love, flower gardens, mountain coffee

Best time to visit: October – December

Tip: Rent a motorbike to explore the outskirts: Tuyen Lam Lake, Cu Lan Village, and Cau Dat Tea Hill

8. Ho Chi Minh City – The City That Never Sleeps

Saigon, officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a thrilling mix of heritage and innovation. On one side, you’ll find colonial-era landmarks like the Central Post Office; on the other, skyscrapers like Bitexco Tower and Landmark 81 pierce the sky. My favorite moment? Sipping a cocktail on a rooftop while the city lights shimmer below.

Region: Southern Vietnam

Highlights: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, nightlife

Best time to visit: December – April (dry season)

Tip: Start your morning with iced coffee on the sidewalk and end your night bar-hopping along Bui Vien Street