Western media suggests 10 destinations for a cross-Vietnam trip.

According to The Travel, Vietnam is blessed with an astonishing array of stunning scenery. From terraced rice fields in various shapes and colors that are spectacular in each season to limestone peaks rising from the clear blue water.

Besides Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh), one of the world-famous places featured in most articles about Vietnam, or the Golden Bridge (Da Nang), the following 10 attractions are things tourists cannot miss when traveling in the S-shaped land of Vietnam.

Phu Quoc (Kien Giang)

Phu Quoc is an archipelago with beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing vacation.

Phu Quoc is Vietnam's first island city. Photo: Khiem Antony/Unsplash

Khem Beach is like a private bay, attracting jewelry enthusiasts with its famous pearl farming area. Meanwhile, Hon Thom Island welcomes adventure seekers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find a stunning natural paradise.

The most famous beach on the island is undoubtedly Sao Beach, boasting fine white sand and crystal-clear blue water. Situated in a bay sheltered by mountains, Sao Beach enjoys calm waters year-round. Here, visitors can sip cocktails while admiring the scenery. Water sports enthusiasts can swim, snorkel, or kayak.

Hanoi

The bustling streets of this thousand-year-old land of culture always delight visitors. Besides the ancient and elegant charm of its many architectural styles, the local cuisine is something no one can forget when they have the chance to explore the capital.

Hanoi is renowned for its diverse indigenous culture and distinctive cuisine. Photo: Silver Ringvee/Unsplash

The Travel website suggests that those interested in learning about the culture and history of Vietnam's ethnic groups can visit the Bronze Drum Tower at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Hanoi is also among the top culinary destinations. Famous dishes of the ancient capital such as pho, bun cha, bun rieu, cha ca, egg coffee... are loved by international tourists and have left a clear mark on the world's culinary map.

Hue

The ancient capital of Hue is peaceful and romantic, offering visitors an experience akin to a journey back in time to the landscapes of feudal Vietnam.

The timeless beauty of Hue. Photo: Tai Pham

The ancient capital still retains its traditional Vietnamese culture through artifacts and architectural structures.

The majestic and magnificent Hue Imperial Citadel, a former royal palace recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site, is a testament to Hue's beauty. Thien Mu Pagoda, an ancient temple, is not only a spiritual sanctuary for generations of Hue's inhabitants but also offers visitors the most stunning views of Hue. The tombs of the Nguyen dynasty kings, the Perfume River, Ngu Mountain... all combine to create a serene and contemplative picture, like a bridge connecting the past and the present.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a fertile and prosperous land, with a complex network of canals and waterways, full of vibrant colors and flavors of life.

This place was once described by Rough Guides magazine as a "value" travel destination, offering an affordable and worthwhile experience.

Many tourist activities take place on the river. Photo: Jack Young

The Mekong Delta region is characterized by boat tours on the river, exploring orchards and fruit gardens, experiencing life on the waterways, and listening to traditional folk music.

Beyond its economic importance, the Mekong Delta is also one of the largest ecosystems in the world, home to many rare species of flora and fauna.

Ba Be National Park (Bac Kan)

Ba Be National Park is a destination for adventurous tourists who want to explore nature, with its towering limestone mountains, deep valleys, and lush green forests.

Ba Be Lake - the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam. Photo: Huyen Chi.

Waterfalls, caves, and lakes combine in one destination, along with over 1,200 species of flora and fauna, attracting nature lovers. Hiking through the forest, mountain biking, or exploring the pristine, majestic scenery by boat are experiences not to be missed.

Cu Chi Tunnels (Ho Chi Minh City)

As a meticulously constructed tunnel system, the Cu Chi Tunnels are among the most fascinating underground structures and tourist destinations on the planet.

The Cu Chi Tunnels were once named by CNN as one of the most fascinating underground structures in the world. Photo: lerafe

With its carefully camouflaged entrance, few would suspect that the underground tunnels are a fully functional defense system including living quarters, infirmaries, kitchens, storage areas, and workspaces. Visitors come here to experience wartime and expand their historical knowledge.

Ho Chi Minh City

According to The Travel, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and colorful city.

Ho Chi Minh City offers visitors fresh and impressive perspectives. Photo: Tron Le/Unsplash

Not only is it Vietnam's largest economic center, the city that never sleeps also has many attractions for tourists.

This is also an ideal starting point on a journey to learn about Vietnamese history. Tourists can visit several famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Cu Chi Tunnels, or the War Remnants Museum, etc.

This place is also among the top street food destinations in Asia. Besides many famous dishes like banh mi and com tam, enjoying coffee at a sidewalk cafe is also a worthwhile experience. In particular, The Travel highlights the unique experience of savoring street food on a plastic chair and table.

Hoi An (Quang Nam)

Hoi An is an ancient city whose charm is reflected in its traditional festivals, historical buildings, and riverside shops, according to The Travel.

Hoi An is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Photo: Thuy/Unsplash

Walking or cycling along this picturesque old town is like literally stepping back in time. The old town is also a great playground for photography enthusiasts because of its colorful buildings and impressive architecture.

If you visit during the full moon, you will witness the city come alive with hundreds of colorful lanterns illuminating the streets at night.

Trang An (Ninh Binh)

Trang An covers an area of ​​over 2,000 hectares with a system of limestone mountains, natural caves, swamps, and rivers. It also boasts magnificent and mysteriously beautiful temples and pagodas.

Trang An has become a must-see destination for tourists visiting Ninh Binh. Photo: Let's Go with Hung.

During their river cruise exploring Trang An, visitors will hear the boatman recount stories about the historical sites, temples, and other fascinating tales associated with this sacred land.

The Travel website shared that the tranquil atmosphere makes travelers feel as if time has stopped when they cruise on the boats.

My Son Sanctuary (Quang Nam)

My Son Sanctuary is an important archaeological site, with many ancient Hindu temples hidden amidst the jungle, and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.

This area still boasts over 70 ancient Cham temples and towers. It attracts many domestic and international tourists who come to visit and explore.

My Son is one of Vietnam's oldest archaeological sites. Photo: Steve Douglas

Khanh Van