Best Places to Visit in Southern Vietnam | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Southern Vietnam Travel Guide
Quick overview of Southern Vietnam with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Southern Vietnam Travel Videos
- Plan Southern Vietnam Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Southern Vietnam
- Hotels Map Of Southern Vietnam
- Tours And Activities In Southern Vietnam
- Food And Drinks To Try In Southern Vietnam
- Best Time To Visit Southern Vietnam
- Flight Calendar For Southern Vietnam
- Transportation To Southern Vietnam
Welcome to Southern Vietnam, a region known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Located in the southern part of Vietnam, this region offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions that will captivate any traveler. From the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, to the serene Mekong Delta and the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island, Southern Vietnam has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the local way of life as you explore bustling markets, sample delicious street food, and visit historical sites such as the Cu Chi Tunnels. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, Southern Vietnam is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Southern Vietnam Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Southern Vietnam
1. Ho Chi Minh City: As the largest city in Southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. Visitors can explore the historic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum, or immerse themselves in the local culture at the Ben Thanh Market. The city also boasts a thriving food scene, with numerous street food stalls and trendy restaurants serving delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
2. Hoi An: Known for its charming old town, Hoi An is a must-visit destination in Southern Vietnam. The city is famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture, including the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Thu Bon River or explore the local markets for unique handicrafts and tailor-made clothing.
3. Nha Trang: Situated along the stunning coastline of Southern Vietnam, Nha Trang is a paradise for beach lovers. The city offers pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant underwater world, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can also visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, a historical site that showcases the ancient Cham civilization.
4. Dalat: Nestled amidst the picturesque Central Highlands, Dalat is a charming hill station known for its cool climate and beautiful landscapes. The city is dotted with French colonial villas and colorful flower gardens, earning it the nickname "City of Eternal Spring". Visitors can explore the Xuan Huong Lake, visit the Crazy House : a unique architectural masterpiece, or embark on a trekking adventure to the nearby waterfalls and pine forests.
5. Mui Ne: Located along the coast of Southern Vietnam, Mui Ne is a popular beach destination known for its stunning sand dunes and year-round sunny weather. Visitors can enjoy various water sports such as kiteboarding and windsurfing, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. The city is also famous for its fresh seafood, with numerous beachfront restaurants offering delicious dishes.
6. Can Tho: Situated in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho is a vibrant city known for its floating markets and lush green rice paddies. Visitors can take a boat tour along the Cai Rang Floating Market, where local vendors sell a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts. The city also offers a glimpse into the local agricultural lifestyle, with opportunities to visit traditional rice paper and noodle factories.
7. Phu Quoc Island: Located off the coast of Southern Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches and lush forests. Visitors can relax on the Long Beach or explore the Phu Quoc National Park, home to diverse wildlife and hiking trails. The island is also famous for its production of high-quality fish sauce, and visitors can learn about the traditional process at the Fish Sauce Factory.
8. Vung Tau: Situated on a peninsula, Vung Tau is a popular seaside resort town in Southern Vietnam. The city offers beautiful beaches, such as Back Beach and Front Beach, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water activities. Vung Tau is also home to several historical landmarks, including the White Palace and the Statue of Jesus Christ, which offers panoramic views of the city.
9. Phan Thiet: Known for its stunning coastal landscapes, Phan Thiet is a charming town that offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Fairy Stream, a unique geological formation with red and white sand dunes, or visit the Po Sah Inu Towers, a historical site showcasing the ancient Cham civilization. Phan Thiet is also famous for its fresh seafood, particularly its succulent dragon fruit.
10. Ben Tre: Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Ben Tre is a peaceful town known for its lush orchards and coconut groves. Visitors can take a boat tour along the Ben Tre River, where they can witness the local way of life and visit traditional handicraft villages. The town is also famous for its delicious coconut-based dishes, such as coconut candy and coconut rice cakes.
Hotels Map Of Southern Vietnam
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Tours And Activities In Southern Vietnam
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Food & Drinks To Try In Southern Vietnam
1. Pho: This iconic Vietnamese dish is a must-try when visiting Southern Vietnam. Pho is a flavorful noodle soup made with beef or chicken, rice noodles, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting meal throughout the day.
2. Banh Mi: Another popular Vietnamese dish that originated in Southern Vietnam is Banh Mi. It is a delicious sandwich made with a crispy baguette filled with various ingredients such as grilled pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite street food option.
3. Goi Cuon: Also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, Goi Cuon is a refreshing and healthy dish to try in Southern Vietnam. These fresh rolls are made with rice paper wrappers filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables. They are often served with a peanut dipping sauce.
4. Bun Bo Hue: If you're a fan of spicy food, don't miss out on trying Bun Bo Hue. This spicy beef noodle soup is a specialty of Hue, a city in Central Vietnam, but it is also popular in Southern Vietnam. It features a rich and flavorful broth made with lemongrass, chili, and shrimp paste, along with tender beef and thick rice noodles.
5. Ca Kho To: Seafood lovers should try Ca Kho To, a traditional Vietnamese dish of caramelized fish. The fish, usually catfish or snakehead fish, is cooked in a clay pot with a sweet and savory caramel sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, and spices. The result is a tender and flavorful fish dish that pairs well with steamed rice.
6. Cao Lau: Cao Lau is a unique dish that can only be found in the ancient town of Hoi An in Central Vietnam, but it is also available in some restaurants in Southern Vietnam. It is a noodle dish made with thick rice noodles, slices of pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, topped with crispy rice crackers. The noodles are cooked in water from a specific well in Hoi An, giving them a distinct flavor.
7. Che: For a sweet treat, try Che, a popular Vietnamese dessert. Che refers to a variety of sweet soups or puddings made with ingredients such as beans, fruits, jelly, and coconut milk. Some popular variations include Che Ba Mau (three-color dessert) and Che Chuoi (banana and coconut milk dessert).
8. Ca Phe Sua Da: Coffee lovers should not miss out on trying Ca Phe Sua Da, a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee. It is made by brewing strong Vietnamese coffee with a small metal filter, then mixing it with condensed milk and serving it over ice. The result is a rich and sweet coffee drink that provides a perfect pick-me-up on a hot day.
9. Nuoc Mia: Nuoc Mia, also known as sugarcane juice, is a refreshing drink that is popular in Southern Vietnam. It is made by extracting the juice from sugarcane stalks and serving it over ice. Some vendors also add a squeeze of lime or a splash of coconut milk for added flavor.
10. Bia Hoi: If you enjoy beer, try Bia Hoi, a type of Vietnamese draft beer that is popular throughout the country. Bia Hoi is a light and refreshing beer that is brewed daily and served fresh. It is often enjoyed at local beer stalls or small bars, where you can sit back and soak in the lively atmosphere of Southern Vietnam.
Best Time To Visit Southern Vietnam
The best time to visit Southern Vietnam is between December and April. During this period, the region experiences dry and sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes. The temperatures are also mild and pleasant, ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that Southern Vietnam can get quite hot and humid during the summer months of May to November, with occasional heavy rainfall and the possibility of typhoons. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during this time if you prefer more comfortable weather conditions.
Flight Calendar For Southern Vietnam
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Southern Vietnam.
Transportation To Southern Vietnam
There are several transportation options to Southern Vietnam, Vietnam.
1. Flight: The most convenient way to reach Southern Vietnam is by flying into one of the major airports in the region, such as Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. There are numerous domestic and international flights available to this airport.
2. Train: Vietnam has an extensive railway network, and there are trains that connect major cities in Southern Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Da Nang. Taking a train can be a scenic and comfortable way to travel to Southern Vietnam.
3. Bus: There are also long-distance buses that operate between different cities in Vietnam, including Southern Vietnam. These buses are usually affordable and offer various amenities, such as air conditioning and reclining seats.
4. Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to Southern Vietnam. However, keep in mind that traffic in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City can be chaotic, so it's important to be cautious and familiar with local driving rules.
5. Boat: Southern Vietnam is known for its beautiful coastal areas and islands. You can also consider taking a boat or ferry to reach certain destinations in Southern Vietnam, such as Phu Quoc Island or the Mekong Delta.
It's important to check the availability and schedules of transportation options based on your specific destination in Southern Vietnam.