Best Places To Visit In South Vietnam

About the Place: 

Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels and chambers located near the Ho Chi Minh City, in Vietnam. It was used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War as a military base, hospitals, and living quarters. The tunnels stretch for over 250 kilometres, and are an incredible feat of engineering. 

Uniqueness:

The Cu Chi Tunnels are renowned for their unique engineering and construction, as well as their use as a military base during the Vietnam War. The tunnels are an incredible feat of engineering, as they are dug deep underground, with multiple levels and chambers, and even some with air vents, allowing for ventilation. 

Facilities Available: 

The Cu Chi Tunnels offer visitors a unique and immersive experience. There are guided tours, as well as self-guided tours, and visitors can explore the tunnels and learn about their history. There are also cafes, souvenir shops, and museums nearby. 

Exact Price Range: 

The admission fee for the Cu Chi Tunnels is around 150,000 VND per person. 

Why Should I Visit: 

The Cu Chi Tunnels offer visitors an opportunity to experience a unique and immersive experience and learn more about the history of the Vietnam War. The tunnels are an incredible feat of engineering, and visitors can explore the tunnels and learn about their history. 

History:

The Cu Chi Tunnels were built by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War as a military base, hospital, and living quarters. The tunnels were dug deep underground, and were used to hide from enemy forces. The tunnels were also used to store supplies and weapons and to transport soldiers and supplies.

Famous Nearby Locations: 

The Cu Chi Tunnels are located near Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The nearby locations include the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and the Cao Dai Temple. 

Famous Foods Available: 

The local cuisine near the Cu Chi Tunnels includes Bun Bo Hue, Pho, and Banh Xeo. Location: The Cu Chi Tunnels are located near Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The exact address is 70 Truong Chinh Street, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City.

About the place: 

My Son Sanctuary is an archaeological site in Vietnam, located in the Quang Nam Province, close to the city of Hoi An. It is a collection of Hindu temples built between the 4th and 14th centuries, which have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. 

Uniqueness:

My Son Sanctuary is a unique archaeological site, as it is the only Hindu temple complex in Vietnam and one of the few Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia. The site is also unique for its fusion of Hindu-Cham and Hindu-Vietnamese styles of architecture. 

Facilities:

My Son Sanctuary offers a range of facilities for visitors, such as a museum, a souvenir shop, a restaurant and a cafe. 

Price Range: 

Admission to My Son Sanctuary is free of charge. There are also tour packages available which range in price from $15 to $30 per person. 

Why should I visit: 

My Son Sanctuary is a unique and important archaeological site, and is a must-see for anyone interested in Vietnam's cultural and archaeological heritage. The site is also a beautiful and peaceful place to spend the day, and is a great way to learn more about Vietnam’s history. 

History of the place: 

My Son Sanctuary was built between the 4th and 14th centuries, when the Cham people ruled the area. The site was once the spiritual and political centre of the kingdom, and was used for religious ceremonies and rituals. The site was abandoned in the 17th century and was rediscovered in the 19th century by French archaeologists. 

Famous nearby locations: 

My Son Sanctuary is located close to the city of Hoi An, which is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful old town and its UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is also located close to the My Son Valley, which has beautiful scenery and is a great spot for trekking and hiking. Distance My Son Sanctuary is located 40km south of the city of Hoi An. 

Famous foods available: 

Hoi An is famous for its food, and there are many restaurants and street food stalls in the city serving up traditional dishes such as Cao Lau, Banh Mi and Banh Xeo. 

Location:

My Son Sanctuary is located in the Quang Nam Province, close to the city of Hoi An. The exact address is: My Son Sanctuary, Duy Phu, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.

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About the Place: 

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Quang Binh province of Vietnam. It covers an area of 857 square kilometers and is home to a vast array of biodiversity. The park is renowned for its stunning karst formations and is home to some of the world's largest caves. 

Uniqueness for the Place: 

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is known for its unique karst formations, which have been formed by the action of rivers and underground streams. The park also boasts a wide variety of wildlife, including numerous species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. 

Facilities Available: 

The park has a range of facilities available for visitors, including camping sites, accommodation, and guided tours. There are also a number of restaurants and shops located within the park. 

Price Range: 

Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and tour packages. Camping sites range from $5 to $15 per night, while accommodation costs range from $20 to $50 per night. Guided tours range from $10 to $50. 

Why Should I Visit: 

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, offering stunning natural scenery, a wide range of wildlife, and a variety of activities. 

History of the Place: 

The park was established in 2001 and is home to some of the oldest karst formations in the world. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, and has since become a major tourist destination in Vietnam. 

Famous Nearby Location with Distance: 

The nearest major city is Hue, which is located about 130 kilometers away. Other nearby cities include Dong Hoi (80 km), Hanoi (400 km), and Ho Chi Minh City (650 km). 

Famous Foods Available: 

A wide range of Vietnamese dishes are available at the park, including Pho (noodle soup), Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), and Goi Cuon (spring rolls). 

Location:

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is located in the Quang Binh province of Vietnam. It is approximately 130 kilometers from Hue and 80 kilometers from Dong Hoi.

About the Place: 

Con Dao Islands are a group of 16 islands located in the South China Sea off the coast of Vietnam. The archipelago is part of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, and the largest island is Con Son. The islands are known for their stunning beaches, lush forests, and diverse marine life. 

Uniqueness:

The islands are a paradise for nature lovers, offering a variety of activities from scuba diving and snorkeling to kayaking and hiking. The waters around the islands are known for their abundance of corals and sea life, making it a great spot for scuba diving. The islands are also home to some of the world's rarest animals, including the endangered hawksbill turtle, which can be found nesting on the beaches. 

Facilities Available: 

The Con Dao Islands offer a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes on the islands, as well as a variety of shops and markets. 

Price Range: 

Accommodation on the islands ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Prices can range from as low as $20 per night to several hundred US dollars. 

Why Should I Visit: 

The Con Dao Islands are a great destination for those looking for a relaxing beach getaway. The islands offer stunning beaches, lush forests, and a variety of activities from scuba diving to kayaking. It's also a great spot for nature lovers, with its abundance of corals and sea life. 

History:

The Con Dao Islands were once a French colonial prison, where political prisoners were held during the Vietnam War. Now, the islands are a popular tourist destination, with a wide range of accommodation and activities to suit every budget. 

Famous Nearby Locations: 

The nearest city to the Con Dao Islands is Vung Tau, which is located about an hour away by boat. The nearby city of Ho Chi Minh City is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions from its bustling nightlife to its vibrant street markets. 

Famous Foods Available: 

The islands are known for their fresh seafood, particularly the local specialty of marinated squid. Other popular dishes include grilled fish, curries, and noodle soups. 

Location:

The Con Dao Islands are located in the South China Sea, off the coast of Vietnam. The islands are part of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, and the nearest city is Vung Tau.

About the Place: 

Ba Be National Park is located in Bac Kan province in northern Vietnam. It is the largest national park in the country and is known for its stunning landscape of limestone cliffs, jungle-covered mountains, and vast lake system. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including tigers, bears, monkeys, and over 300 species of birds. 

Uniqueness of the Place: 

Ba Be National Park is renowned for its pristine natural beauty and biodiversity. The park is home to more than 500 species of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey and the giant muntjac deer. In addition, the park's lake system is home to a variety of freshwater fish species, and the park's caves and limestone cliffs offer a unique and picturesque setting. 

Facilities Available: 

Visitors to Ba Be National Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and boat trips. The park also offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, accommodation, and a visitor centre with information about the park's flora and fauna. 

Price Range: 

The entrance fee for Ba Be National Park is VND 20,000 (approximately US$1) per person. For visitors staying overnight in the park, prices range from VND 60,000 to VND 200,000 (approximately US$2.50 – US$8.50) per night, depending on the type of accommodation. 

Why Should I Visit: 

Ba Be National Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park's stunning landscape, diverse wildlife, and range of activities make it an ideal destination for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. 

History of the Place: 

Ba Be National Park was established in 1992 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to a number of historical and cultural sites, including the archaeological remains of the Lang Son Citadel and the ancient Tay ethnic village of Pac Ngoi. 

Famous Nearby Locations: 

The nearby town of Ba Be is just 30km away from the park. Visitors can explore the town's markets and temples, or take a boat trip on the nearby Nang River. Other nearby attractions include the Thac Ba Lake and the Tam Dao National Park. 

Famous Foods Available: 

The town of Ba Be offers a wide range of delicious local dishes, including bun cha (grilled pork patties served with noodles), banh cuon (steamed rice crepes), and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches). 

Location:

Ba Be National Park is located in Bac Kan province in northern Vietnam, approximately 30km from the town of Ba Be.

About the Place: 

Ha Long Bay is an iconic tourist destination in Vietnam and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its dramatic landscape of thousands of limestone pillars and karst grottoes, Ha Long Bay is a stunning natural wonder located in the Gulf of Tonkin, off the coast of Northeastern Vietnam. 

Uniqueness:

Ha Long Bay is a stunning natural phenomenon and one of the most beautiful places in the world. It features thousands of limestone islands, hidden caves, and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. 

Facility Available: 

Ha Long Bay offers a range of activities and facilities for visitors, including boat tours, kayaking, and scuba diving. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels in the area, making it a great place to stay and explore. 

Exact Price Range: 

The exact price range for activities and accommodation in Ha Long Bay will vary depending on the type of activity and accommodation. However, the average cost for a one-night stay in a hotel is around $50 USD. 

Why Should I Visit: 

Ha Long Bay is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Vietnam. The stunning limestone islands, hidden caves, and crystal-clear waters make it a truly unique and breathtaking experience. Plus, the area is full of activities, restaurants, and hotels, making it the perfect place to stay and explore. 

History:

Ha Long Bay has been part of Vietnamese culture for centuries. The area has been a popular destination for artists, poets, and travelers since the 19th century. The area was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. 

Famous Nearby Locations: 

The nearest major city to Ha Long Bay is Hanoi, which is about 170 miles away. Other nearby attractions include Ninh Binh Province, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, and Con Dao Islands. 

Famous Foods Available: 

The area around Ha Long Bay is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including steamed crab, squid, and mussels. Other popular local dishes include bun cha (rice noodles with grilled pork) and banh cuon (rice paper rolls). 

Location:

Ha Long Bay is located in Quang Ninh Province, Northeastern Vietnam, in the Gulf of Tonkin. It is about 170 miles from Hanoi and about 100 miles from Ninh Binh Province.

About the Place: 

Cao Dai Temple is a religious monument located in Tay Ninh province, Vietnam. It is the home of the Cao Dai sect of Vietnamese Buddhism, and is visited by thousands of worshippers every day. The temple is renowned for its striking architecture, which is a combination of Eastern and Western influences. 

Uniqueness:

The Cao Dai Temple is unique in that it is a blend of many different religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Taoism. It is also the only temple in Vietnam to feature a large, central eye symbol, which is said to represent the all-seeing God of Cao Dai. 

Facilities Available: 

The temple complex is open to visitors, and provides a number of facilities including a cafe, a souvenir shop, and restroom facilities. Visitors can also take part in daily religious ceremonies, which take place four times a day. 

Price Range: 

Entry to the temple is free, and the facilities are offered at no extra cost. Why Should I Visit: The Cao Dai Temple is a unique and fascinating place to visit. Visitors can learn about the history and beliefs of this unique sect of Buddhism, and can also take part in the daily ceremonies. 

History of the Place: 

The Cao Dai sect of Buddhism was founded in 1926 and is based on a combination of Eastern and Western beliefs. The first temple was built in 1933 and has since grown to become a major pilgrimage site. 

Famous Nearby Locations with Distance: 

The Cu Chi Tunnels are located approximately 55km from the Cao Dai Temple. The tunnels are a network of underground tunnels used by the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. 

Famous Foods Available: 

The local delicacy of Tay Ninh province is Banh Trang Tron, a cold noodle dish. Other local dishes include Pho, a noodle soup, and Bo La Lot, a minced beef dish. 

Location:

The Cao Dai Temple is located in Tay Ninh province, Vietnam, approximately 75km from Ho Chi Minh City.

About the Place: 

Ninh Binh Province is located in the northern part of Vietnam. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including Trang An, Tam Coc, and Van Long. The province is also home to the Hoa Lu ancient capital, the Bai Dinh Pagoda and the Thung Nham Bird Park. 

Uniqueness:

The Ninh Binh Province is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Vietnam. The area is full of limestone karst formations, caves, and rivers. The Trang An area is especially breathtaking and is considered to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Facilities Available: 

The Ninh Binh Province has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and homestays. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes offering both local and international cuisine. 

Price Range: 

The price range for accommodation in the Ninh Binh Province varies greatly depending on the type of accommodation. Hotels and resorts range in price from $30 to $200 per night, while homestays can range from $15 to $50 per night. 

Why Should I Visit: 

Visiting the Ninh Binh Province is a must for anyone looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of Vietnam. The area offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, and sightseeing. 

History of the Place: 

The Ninh Binh Province has a long and rich history that dates back to the 10th century. The area was once the capital of Vietnam and was the center of power for many dynasties. 

Famous Nearby Locations: 

The Ninh Binh Province is close to several famous cities and attractions. The capital city of Hanoi is about 80 kilometers away, while the famous Halong Bay is about 200 kilometers away. 

Famous Foods Available: 

The Ninh Binh Province is known for its delicious local cuisine. Popular dishes include grilled pork with noodles, spring rolls, and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls). 

Location:

The Ninh Binh Province is located in the northern part of Vietnam, about 80 kilometers south of the capital city of Hanoi.

About the Place: 

Hue is located in central Vietnam and is renowned for its ancient architecture, including the Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City. It was once the imperial capital of Vietnam, and is now home to a variety of attractions, including the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tu Hieu Pagoda. 

Uniqueness:

Hue is unlike any other city in Vietnam. It is full of ancient architecture, and is home to a variety of temples, pagodas, and tombs. The city is also known for its vibrant culture and cuisine. 

Facilities Available: 

Hue has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and homestays. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes offering both local and international cuisine. 

Price Range: 

The price range for accommodation in Hue varies greatly depending on the type of accommodation. Hotels and resorts range in price from $30 to $200 per night, while homestays can range from $15 to $50 per night. 

Why Should I Visit: 

Hue is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the culture, history, and architecture of Vietnam. The city is full of ancient monuments, temples, and pagodas, and is also home to a variety of cultural events and festivals. 

History of the Place: 

Hue was once the imperial capital of Vietnam and was the center of power for many dynasties. It was founded in the early 19th century and has since become a major tourist destination. 

Famous Nearby Locations: 

Hue is close to several famous cities and attractions. The city of Da Nang is about 100 kilometers away, while the famous My Son Sanctuary is about 70 kilometers away. 

Famous Foods Available: 

Hue is known for its delicious local cuisine. Popular dishes include bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh beo (steamed rice cakes), and banh loc (tapioca dumplings). 

Location:

Hue is located in central Vietnam, about 700 kilometers south of the capital city of Hanoi.

About the Place:

Mui Ne is located in the south-eastern part of Vietnam, and is known for its stunning beaches and sand dunes. The area is a popular destination for windsurfers, kite surfers, and other watersports enthusiasts. 

Uniqueness:

Mui Ne is unlike any other beach destination in Vietnam. It is home to a variety of stunning sandy beaches, and also features several sand dunes and lagoons. Facilities Available: Mui Ne has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and homestays. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes offering both local and international cuisine. 

Price Range: 

The price range for accommodation in Mui Ne varies greatly depending on the type of accommodation. Hotels and resorts range in price from $30 to $200 per night, while homestays can range from $15 to $50 per night. 

Why Should I Visit: 

Mui Ne is the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. The area is known for its stunning beaches and sand dunes, and is also home to a variety of watersports activities. 

History of the Place: 

Mui Ne has a long and rich history, and was once a major port for the Champa kingdom. The area has since become a popular tourist destination for both locals and foreigners. 

Famous Nearby Locations: 

Mui Ne is close to several famous cities and attractions. The city of Ho Chi Minh City is about 200 kilometers away, while the famous Nha Trang is about 100 kilometers away. 

Famous Foods Available: 

Mui Ne is known for its delicious seafood. Popular dishes include banh xeo (Vietnamese crepes), bun rieu (noodle soup), and nem nuong (grilled pork patties). 

Location:

Mui Ne is located in the south-eastern part of Vietnam, about 200 kilometers east of the capital city of Ho Chi Minh City.

What is Good There: 

Take a cruise down the Mekong Delta to explore its lush greenery, vibrant markets, and unique villages. See the amazing wildlife and vegetation that is found in the region, as well as experience the culture of the locals. 

How Much Does it Cost: 

Tours of the Delta typically cost around $25 USD for a half-day tour. 

What Can I Do: 

Take a boat tour of the Delta, visit local villages, sample local food, explore the markets, and enjoy the wildlife and scenery.

Location:

Mekong Delta is located in South Vietnam, near the Cambodian border. 

What is Good There: 

Take a tour of the extensive network of tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Learn about the history of the tunnels, and how they were used during the war. 

How Much Does it Cost: 

Tours of the Cu Chi Tunnels typically cost around $20 USD. 

What Can I Do: 

Take a tour of the tunnels, watch a short film about the history of the tunnels, and explore the various chambers and tunnels. 

Location:

The Cu Chi Tunnels are located in Ho Chi Minh City, in South Vietnam. 

What is Good There: 

Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the city, visit the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and explore the various markets. Taste the delicious street food and explore the various districts of the city. 

How Much Does it Cost:

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City is free of charge. 

What Can I Do:

Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, explore the markets, sample the delicious street food, and explore the various districts of the city. 

Location:

Ho Chi Minh City is located in South Vietnam. 

What is Good There: 

Learn about the history of the Vietnam War through interactive exhibits, photographs and artifacts. See the various weapons used during the war, as well as learn about the atrocities committed by both sides. 

How Much Does it Cost: 

The museum entrance fee is around $3 USD. 

What Can I Do: 

Explore the various exhibits, watch a film about the war, and learn about the history of Vietnam. 

Location:

The War Remnants Museum is located in Ho Chi Minh City, in South Vietnam. 

What is Good There: 

Enjoy the stunning white-sand beaches, lush tropical forests and vibrant nightlife of the largest island in Vietnam. Relax on the beaches, take a hike through the forests, and explore the local markets. 

How Much Does it Cost: 

The cost of visiting Phu Quoc Island depends on the type of accommodation and activities chosen. 

What Can I Do: 

Relax on the beaches, take a hike through the forests, explore the local markets, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. 

Location:

Phu Quoc Island is located off the coast of South Vietnam. 

What is Good There: 

Wander the narrow streets of this ancient town, lined with lantern-lit shops, Chinese temples and Japanese pagodas. Explore the colorful markets, sample the delicious street food and shop for traditional handicrafts.

How Much Does it Cost: 

Visiting Hoi An is free of charge. 

What Can I Do: 

Explore the colorful markets, sample the delicious street food, and shop for traditional handicrafts. 

Location:

Hoi An is located in Central Vietnam, near the coast. 

What is Good There: 

Explore the ruins of the former imperial city, and visit the majestic Royal Palace and stunning pagodas. Take a boat tour of the Perfume River, and explore the ancient Thien Mu Pagoda.

How Much Does it Cost: 

Entrance fees to the Royal Palace and other attractions are typically around $2-$3 USD. 

What Can I Do: 

Explore the ruins of the former imperial city, take a boat tour of the Perfume River, and explore the ancient Thien Mu Pagoda. 

Location:

The Imperial City of Hue is located in Central Vietnam. 

What is Good There: 

Explore the underground tunnels and chambers used as a refuge from bombings during the Vietnam War. Learn about the history of the tunnels and the people who lived there during the war. 

How Much Does it Cost: 

The cost of visiting the Vinh Moc Tunnels is around $4 USD. 

What Can I Do: 

Take a tour of the tunnels, watch a short film about the history of the tunnels, and explore the various chambers and tunnels.

Location:

The Vinh Moc Tunnels are located in Quang Tri Province, in North Central Vietnam. 

What is Good There: 

Climb the highest peak in Indochina, and enjoy its breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Take a cable car up the mountain, and enjoy the lush greenery and stunning views from the summit. 

How Much Does it Cost: 

The cost of visiting Fansipan Mountain is around $15 USD. 

What Can I Do: 

Take a cable car up the mountain, hike to the summit, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 

Location:

Fansipan Mountain is located in Northwest Vietnam, near the Chinese border. 

What is Good There: 

Explore the vibrant market with its busy boat traffic, and sample the delicious local street food. Buy fresh produce and handicrafts from the boats, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the market. 

How Much Does it Cost: 

Visiting Cai Rang Floating Market is free of charge. 

What Can I Do: 

Explore the market, sample the delicious street food, and buy fresh produce and handicrafts from the boats. 

Location:

Cai Rang Floating Market is located in the Mekong Delta, in South Vietnam.