Among those long lists of Vietnam's must-see attractions, it is essential to stop at big cities Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City to understand the characteristics, lifestyle and culture. However, the most unique scene of the country lays beyond the urban hustle and bustle. Travelers, who are seeking for the best of Vietnam, should consider visiting at least one of these five natural and cultural gems. By including them in your travel bucket list, you will not only discover the country's true beauty, but also finding yourself falling in love with it.

1. SAPA - Hilltop breathtaking views

Located near the northern border, Sapa is home to Vietnam's most beautiful rural vistas that will take your breath away. This type of beauty comes at a price. Vegetation like this occurs because the weather in this region consists of overcasts, monsoons, and temperatures roughly cooler than in the south. For trekkers seeking beautiful lush green mountains, covered by rice paddy terraces, put on hiking boots and expect to get a little muddy. Aside from Sapa's main source of economy, a trip may also include scenic waterfalls, delightsome farmhouses, and local villages along the way. There is no place like Sapa in Vietnam, which is why it always appears in lists of top things to do in Vietnam.

Sapa’s rice terraces. Photo by Tran Gia Tien

If your trip to Sapa is on the weekend, stop by the Bac Ha market on Sunday and meet the locals from different ethnic groups including Hmong, Giay, and Red Dzao. Learn some simple greetings and share some smiles with the opportunity to see diversity and unity among the local hill tribes. The market has everything from local produce to hand-made fabrics, and souvenirs like keepsake or trinket.

Tribal children. Photo by Tran Gia Tien

2. HA LONG BAY - New 7 Wonders of Nature 

Photo from halongbay.co

Halong Bay was classified as a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. A boat cruise sailing around this captivating bay is one-of-a-lifetime experience and a must-do while in Vietnam. The bay's picturesque unspoiled nature is comprised of around 1,600 to 2,000 limestone islands and islets in various shapes and sizes. Halong Bay day trip or overnight cruise from Hanoi are two most popular tourist activities in Northern Vietnam.

3. SON DOONG CAVE - World Largest Cave

Photo from nationalgeographic.com

The world’s largest cave, Son Doong Cave is in Northern Central Vietnam. The cave is approximately 3 miles long and has its own ecosystem, underground cloud cover, tropical rain forest and flowing river. It is first stumbled across by a Vietnamese local man, Ho Khanh, who was seeking shelter from a passing storm in 1999, but his attempts to find way back to the cave were unsuccessful. It was until 2009, the cave was rediscovered by the British Cave Research Association with the help of Ho Khanh. The cave has been officially open to the public since 2013 and is now accepting tours up to 5 days costing upwards to 3,000 US dollars. A world of its own, untouched by civilization and home to multiple species of wildlife puts Son Doong Cave as a must-see attraction in Vietnam.

4. HOI AN - UNESCO World Heritage Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town. Photo by Tran Gia Tien

Hoi An is simply unique. There are no where in Vietnam that looks like the acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site - Ancient Town. 17th century Eastern architecture, relaxing streets, colorful lanterns, lovely tea houses, tailor shops, amazing cuisine, quiet beach and countryside scene. All combined creates the city’s attractive vibes.

Make sure to check out the icon of Hoi An, the Japanese Bridge at the end of Tran Phu Street. There are numerous museums and traditional houses for a quick visit. A highly recommended activity is renting a bike for an early morning ride around the tranquil Ancient Town, or an 2km adventure to the beach. For those who love shopping, come prepared with an extra suitcase because it is very hard to say no to gorgeous tailor-made clothes, shoes and bags here.

5. Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam’s Paradise Island

Bai Sao Beach Photo from viettourist.com

Gifted with the long East Coast running from North to South, Vietnam has many beautiful beaches, for instance fishing village Quy Nhon, party beach city Nha Trang, resort town Mui Ne. Phu Quoc, located way in the South West, however has the most unexposed white sand beach, crystal clear water, and well-preserved national parks. Luxurious resorts or local homestay, active boat tours or lazy day on the beach, 5-star breakfast buffets or local food stroll at night markets. Phu Quoc island is perfect for everybody no matter what they are looking for in a beach trip.

Bamboo cirque A O Show at the Saigon Opera House

Culture shocks, chaotic roads, tropical heat, language barriers, fascinating nature and culture gems, friendly people, Vietnam as a whole is a charming mess. We hope some the attractions in this Vietnam’s must-see list will be included in your upcoming travel itinerary. If you stop by Saigon for a couples night before heading to Phu Quoc, come to the Saigon Opera House to check out our entertaining bamboo cirque and acrobatic, A O Show and Teh Dar.

Happy travel time in Vietnam.

 Lune Production