What is Vietnam Famous For? Top 20 Factors Behind the Popularity of Vietnam

Vietnam, known as the land of “Ascending Dragon”, is a one-of-a-kind place. Apart from being a spectacular destination Vietnam is famous for its amazing cuisine and fun activities. Further, this Southeast Asian country is quite popular among travel enthusiasts for its vibrant city life to serene waters and deep forests.

So, if you are searching on what Vietnam is famous for, start making notes because the list is endless. Then, read and pick out the ideal things you want to do in this country.

If this is your first time visiting Vietnam, you must prepare yourself for a treat. Since the currency rate is cheaper from India, it is on the bucket list of many travellers. The official currency of this country is the Vietnamese Dong. VND 1 is equal to INR 0.0033.

1. Halong Bay

This UNESCO world heritage site offers one of the best views in Vietnam. Take a boat ride in the Gulf of Tonkin and enjoy a picturesque view of the limestone islands. Located 182 km east of Hanoi, this is one of Vietnam's most admired tourist destinations.

Cruising in the bay is the best way to enjoy this turquoise water. Depending on your time in hand, book a one-night or three nights stay.  Further, you can relax on the deck while indulging in exotic cuisines and exploring nearby locations like the Ti Top Islands and Sung Sot Cave.

2. Cat Ba Island

When you are at Halong Bay, visit its largest island. This is an ideal spot to explore all water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, diving, etc. If you are not a water-sports person, there are other options for you as well, like trekking, hiking, caving, rock climbing, and many more.

Those who like to spend some idyllic time by the beach can find several spots with no such crowd. This area has no entry fees, but after sun-down, you cannot stay back. So, if you plan to visit, reach here by 8 am.

3. Temple Of Literature

Among the famous places in Vietnam, the Temple of Literature in Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit. Another name of this temple is “the Temple of Confucius.” For those who admire architecture and history, this can be a good place to immerse yourself in Vietnamese history.

This is located in Hanoi, but its former name, Saigon, is more popular among tourists. The perfect time to visit this place is between May and November as it is the time when the greenery is all around.

4. Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi tunnels are a series of tunnels that were dug out in the 1940s for communication purposes during the war. This subsurface tunnel is 250 km long where you will find twisting tunnels, several branches, hidden doors, secret routes to canals, weapons storehouses, etc.

The most interesting part about these tunnels is that it reaches up to the borders of Cambodia. Moreover, some of these tunnels have been widened for visitors. In addition, it has no entrance fee.

5. Mekong Delta

Vietnam is famous for its geographical significance, and one of the best places to experience stunning landscapes is the Mekong Delta. Besides its typical delta features of mangroves, here you will see lush paddy fields on both banks.

Boating through chaotic floating markets and enjoying the scenic beauty is unparalleled. First, you can base in Can Tho, as this town is closer to the popular floating marketplace Phong Dien and Cai Rang. Then, board your boat rides from Ca Mau to explore Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve.

6. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long was the former political centre for thirteen centuries. For first-time visitors to Vietnam, visit this place at least once. This glorious fortress is an absolute remnant of the Vietnamese war. In 2010, it was declared a UNESCO world heritage site.

Archaeologists have found several relics of the old world like proofs of roads, palaces, wells, potteries, coins, etc. Since this place has a restricted time for visiting, you have time from 8 am to 5 pm. You also have to pay VND 30,000 for entering its premises.

7. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Vietnam is famous for being the world's largest cave in Phong Nha. This biosphere reserve encompasses evergreen forests and innumerable species of fauna.

Moreover, the town of Phong Nha is also popularly known as the epicentre of caving adventure. Nevertheless, if you are someone who does not like underground adventures, you can go trekking.

8. Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An is also one of the famous places in Vietnam. If you are in this ancient town, experience the incredible architecture. The old town still preserves its essence from the 15th century. Make sure to visit at least one of those old merchant houses to travel back in time.

The Japanese bridge at the western end of Tran Phu Street is the major symbol of this ancient town. Other important places to see are the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation and several pagodas that are dotted around this place.

9. My Son Sanctuary

My Son is a Hindu temple city from the 4th century, now in ruins. This city was functional during the 7th and 10th centuries, but in the 13th century, its inhabitants abandoned the city and declined.

At present, there are around 20 temples; all of these were built of brick and sandstone. If you notice its architecture carefully, you will find instances of Asian, Indian and Malay culture. Further, when you are at Hoi An, plan a day visit to this ancient town.

10. Phuoc Lam Pagoda

Another site to visit from Hoi An is the Phuoc Lam Pagoda. This place is popular for its gorgeous architecture and designs. As you enter its premises, you will immediately feel how calm the whole place is.

Its tranquillity is the one thing that makes it different from all the other common touristy places. This place has such a fulfilling impact on your mind that you may wish to spend an entire day in this place.

11. Sapa Countryside

You must have seen the typical postcard images of absolute green-step farming in Vietnam. This place is none other than the Sapa Countryside, another place Vietnam is famous for. Enclosed by rugged peaks of the Hoang Lien Mountains, it is the most popular rural area of the country.

The valleys here are home to many ethnic minorities. Besides the amazing step fields, there is also the tallest peak in the country, called Fansipan Mountain. Further, you can have your base in Sapa and go for treks or hikes from here.

12. Nha Trang

For those who love beaches, Nha Trang can be the perfect getaway. This 6 km long shoreline is favoured by the locals during the summers. So, if you do not like overcrowded beaches, it is better to avoid the peak season.

After you are done with sunbathing, swimming and other shore activities, plan a tour around the city. Towards its north, there is Po Nagar Cham Towers; this place has been used for worshipping since the 7th century.

13. Ba Be National Park

Visiting Ba Be National Park is one of the experiences not to miss in Vietnam. This national park comprises three interlinked lakes and is surrounded by karst peaks and forested slopes. Further, the perfect way to enjoy this destination is by kayaking on the lake and touring around the caves.

Apart from that, there are other activities, like hiking in these hills and exploring villages of ethnic minorities. Those just looking for a laid-back vacation can try staying in stilt-house homestays and encountering the simple rural lives of these people.

14. The Perfume River

The Perfume River can be listed as one of the most underrated famous places in Vietnam. As you stroll around the banks or cruise on the river, you can feel a beautiful aroma spread across this place.

This is the reason behind such an unusual name; the aroma comes from the underwater flora and fauna that adds up to the tranquillity and makes the ambiance more romantic. Hence, the Perfume River can be an ideal honeymoon destination.

15. Buon Ma Thuot

If you like to challenge yourself and go for a much off-beat destination, explore this old-fashioned town with a rustic vibe. Buon Ma Thuot is popular as the coffee capital of the country.

This one town and its surrounding regions are also known for their popular coffee plantations. In addition, the popular Biennial Coffee Festival is hosted in this area too. Moreover, if you are not a crazy fan of coffee, you can visit Vietnam’s largest nature reserve, Yok Don National Park.

16. Da Nang

Another lesser-visited yet popular thing in Vietnam is visiting Da Nang. It is a beautiful coastal city with long beaches that offers picturesque sunset views. In addition, this place is known for the Golden Hand Bridge in Ba Na Hills.

Some tourist attractions in Da Nang are Marble Mountain, Cham Museum, Da Nang Cathedral, Phap Lam Pagoda, etc. Furthermore, you can also try outdoor activities like scuba diving in Hai Van Pass, boating, fishing, and many more.

Other than these above-mentioned popular destinations, Vietnam is famous for the following activities, food habits and culture. Here is a list of things you must not miss when travelling to this country.

17. Lantern in Hoi An

During the Vietnamese New Year, that is, during February, Hoi An lights up with uncountable lanterns. The lantern festival in Vietnam lasts for seven days. So, if you plan during this period, do not miss this festival.

The road from Hoi An Bridge to Hoai River Square lights up with thousands of beautiful lanterns. To capture a splendid moment of this festival, book a sampan boat and watch these lanterns float on the river. You can even participate in this festival as well, buy a lantern and set it afloat.

18. Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre

Watching the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre is among the famous things in Vietnam that are worth trying. However, unlike any other puppet show, this is something very exclusive. Moreover, the water puppet shows originated 1000 years ago in the Red River Delta Region.

Each of these shows is for 50 minutes, where you get an insight into the country's cultural aspects. These performances are balanced together with traditional Vietnamese music, live performances and storytelling. However, you have to book this show beforehand, and it costs around VND 100,000.

19. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

If you are wondering what Vietnam is famous for in its varied spread of cuisine. Pho or Vietnamese Noodle Soup is your answer. Pronounced as “Fu”, this is a very appetizing food in the country. 

Pho is commonly available wherever you go as it is one of the popular street foods in Vietnam. Pho is mostly served with either beef or chicken, in a broth with flat rice noodles and some flavorings. To elevate its taste, you can also add some additional garnish with sprouts, red chilies, lime juice, basil, and cilantro.

20. Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee)

Vietnam is also very popular for its coffee. From drawing inspiration from French café culture, here you can also find several streetside cafes. Nonetheless, the type of coffee you must try here is the Ca Phe Trung or Egg Coffee.

Although this variant of coffee was created in Hanoi, it is popular across the country. The ingredients of this coffee are Robusta coffee beans, egg yolks, and condensed milk. In addition, the best place to try this coffee is Cafe Giang in Hanoi City.

If you had a notion that since it is a cheaper country, it may not be worth visiting. Having read so far, we hope to bust that myth. Vietnam is famous for several things, from ancient towns, UNESCO heritage sites, and serene beaches to scrumptious Pho and a different kinds of coffee. Choose which places you want to explore and start planning for your getaway.