16 Unique and Unmissable Places in Vietnam to Explore

Vietnam is a land of breathtaking beauty, making it a dream destination for travel and nature photographers. Known for its vibrant culture, historic charm, and awe-inspiring landscapes, Vietnam offers something for everyone. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, and from the ancient architecture of Hanoi to the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An, every corner of this country is brimming with photographic opportunities.

This guide takes you through the most beautiful places in Vietnam, helping you craft the perfect itinerary for your next trip. Each location offers something unique, and these destinations are sure to provide plenty of Instagram-worthy moments while also allowing you to capture the essence of Vietnam’s rich heritage.

If Vietnam isn’t already on your bucket list, these breathtaking locations might just change your mind. Scroll down to explore the best spots for travel photography and get inspired for your next adventure.

Beautiful Places in Vietnam

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts, this bay is perfect for sunrise photography when the light bathes the formations in golden hues.

For the best shots, take a boat tour to venture deeper into the bay and explore hidden caves and floating villages. If you’re more adventurous, kayaking through the quiet coves or hiking to panoramic viewpoints on some of the islands offers a unique perspective.

Also, don’t miss the perspective from Bai Tho Mountain, which offers panoramic views of this awe-inspiring seascape.

2. Cat Ba Island

You’ll love capturing the rugged beauty of Cat Ba Island. Part of the Ha Long Bay archipelago, the island features everything from hidden beaches to dense jungles. Hike to the summit of Cannon Fort for sweeping views of the bay, especially during golden hour.

The island is teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can hike through tropical forests, climb limestone peaks, or kayak through the mangroves. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot rare wildlife, including the critically endangered Cat Ba langur, one of the world’s most endangered primates.

3. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is an absolute dream. Its rugged terrain includes ancient karst mountains, lush jungles, and stunning caves, including Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest cave.

The park’s vast network of caves, many of which extend for miles underground, offers opportunities for exploration, including kayaking through the dark waters of Phong Nha Cave or marveling at the surreal stalactites in Paradise Cave. The biodiversity within the park is also noteworthy, with rare species of plants, birds, and mammals thriving in its dense forests.

4. Ban Gioc Waterfall

Located on the Chinese border, Ban Gioc Waterfall (also known as Detian Falls) is one of the greatest wonders in northern Vietnam. This multi-tiered waterfall cascades through a picturesque valley, delivering a scene straight out of fantasy.

The emerald waters at its base provide the perfect setting for leisurely bamboo raft rides, offering a closer view of the falls.

Mist rising from the falls adds an atmospheric effect, making it a perfect subject for long-exposure photography. Plan a mid-morning visit for the best lighting when the sunshine gives the water an enchanting turquoise glow.

5. Sa Pa Rice Fields

The vibrant rice terraces of Sa Pa (or Sapa) are both culturally significant and picturesque. These terraces stretch across the mountains, creating striking patterns that change with the seasons. During harvest time, golden fields cover the landscape, creating perfect conditions for drone photography.

6. Thac Bac Waterfall (Silver Waterfall)

Located near Sa Pa, the Thac Bac Waterfall (also known as “Silver Waterfall”) resembles a beautiful ribbon, cascading gracefully down lush green cliffs. This scenic spot is ideal for both wide-angle shots and close-ups that highlight the water’s flow over the rocks. Visit during the rainy season (May to October) for a more dramatic and forceful cascade.

Surrounding the Thac Bac Waterfall is a beautiful landscape of forests and mountain views. For a more comprehensive experience, visitors can explore the nearby villages and interact with local communities. The presence of quaint markets adds to the charm of this area.

7. Trang An Landscape Complex

Dubbed the “Ha Long Bay on land,” Trang An Landscape Complex offers serene waterways surrounded by karst peaks and rice paddies. Rowboats snake through rivers, passing through mystical caves and ancient temples, providing opportunities for unique photo compositions.

This UNESCO World Heritage site also holds deep cultural and historical significance, including pagodas and temples that date back to ancient dynasties. Each stop along the rowboat tour invites exploration into Vietnam’s past, with artifacts and structures that reflect the beliefs and traditions of its people.

8. Ta Dung Lake

Often referred to as Vietnam’s “miniature Ha Long Bay,” Ta Dung Lake is a lesser-known gem in the Central Highlands and one of the most interestingly shaped lakes you’ll find anywhere. The lake is scattered with lush green islets, creating a picture-perfect view from the mountaintop. Early morning fog often covers the area, adding a dreamy atmosphere to your photographs.

9. Po Nagar Cham Towers

Perched above the city of Nha Trang, the Po Nagar Cham Towers are a fascinating subject. These ancient temples, built between the 7th and 12th centuries, are full of intricate carvings and vibrant hues of orange and red. You can photograph intricate details of the ruins or capture the larger scene. For the best lighting, visit during sunrise or sunset when the golden light accentuates the temple’s details.

Beyond their visual appeal, the Po Nagar Cham Towers also hold significant cultural and spiritual importance. The site was originally dedicated to the goddess Yan Po Nagar, revered as the protector of the land and its people.

From the Po Nagar Cham Towers, you’ll also have a breathtaking panoramic view of the Cai River meandering through Nha Trang and the lush landscape surrounding the area.

10. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a paradise for urban photographers thanks to its dynamic mix of historical and modern elements. Capture the French colonial architecture of landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, or photograph the city’s neon-lit streets and skyscrapers.

One of the most iconic spots is Ben Thanh Market, featuring colorful stalls selling everything from traditional textiles to exotic fruits. The market’s exterior, with its distinctive clock tower, is an ideal subject for photos, while the night market offers dynamic, neon-drenched scenes.

Another gem is the Jade Emperor Pagoda, with ornate carvings, intricate statues, and a mystical atmosphere created by rising incense smoke.

To capture the city’s modern skyline, head to the Saigon River, where sunsets paint the skyscrapers in warm, golden hues.

11. Phu Quoc Island

With pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Phu Quoc Island is a tropical escape ideal for coastal photography. Sunset at Long Beach delivers radiant skies and shimmering waves. For underwater photographers, the island’s coral reefs offer fantastic opportunities for vibrant marine photography.

The island is home to Phu Quoc National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which features diverse flora and fauna. For cultural exploration, visit local fishing villages, where colorful boats and bustling markets create vivid, authentic scenes.

12. Mui Ne Sand Dunes

In southern Vietnam, the Mui Ne Sand Dunes present a surreal and picturesque landscape that feels worlds away from the typical tropical scenery. These sand dunes are divided into two main areas – the Red Sand Dunes and the White Sand Dunes. The Red Sand Dunes are closer to Mui Ne town, featuring a reddish-brown hue that becomes especially striking during sunrise and sunset.

The White Sand Dunes, known locally as Bau Trang or “White Lake,” have rolling white sands and scattered lotus-filled lakes, exuding a desert-like charm.

13. Hoi An Ancient Town

Step back in time with a visit to Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its preserved architecture and vibrant lanterns. Wandering the streets at dusk, you’ll capture magical pictures of glowing lanterns illuminating French-style homes. For a different perspective, hop on a boat to photograph the river and its quaint surroundings.

14. My Son Sanctuary

This awe-inspiring Hindu sanctuary in Quang Nam Province offers a mix of history and picturesque scenery. Set against rolling hills, the ancient brick temples of My Son are steeped in mystery. Visit in the early morning to avoid crowds at this popular location.

15. Hanoi

Vietnam’s capital city combines traditional charm with urban energy, offering endless subjects to photograph. Capture the timeless beauty of the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, ancient temples, and iconic Hoan Kiem Lake.

For street photography, visit the bustling Dong Xuan Market or capture the frenetic pace of Vietnamese coffee culture spilling onto streets from tiny cafes.

16. The Mekong Delta

Known as Vietnam’s “Rice Bowl,” the Mekong Delta is a vibrant collection of waterways, floating markets, and lush landscapes. The Cai Rang Floating Market, in particular, offers countless moments to capture the colorful chaos of trading boats laden with produce. Hop onto a sampan boat to immerse yourself in the delta’s charm and capture these scenes.

Embark on Your Vietnam Photography Adventure

Vietnam is a paradise for travel photographers, offering stunning landscapes, cultural landmarks, and vibrant cityscapes. Every corner brims with beauty, history, and character, providing endless possibilities.