Vietnam Historical Sites

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In Vietnam’s major cities — Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City — history lives on in the colonial architecture, the 11th century temples, and restored artifacts from numerous wars. These destinations are full of museums, galleries, and buildings with more than a few stories to tell and each played witness to the long and storied history of the nation.

Vietnam historical attractions not to be missed include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature in Hanoi, and the Notre Dame Cathedral and Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh. Wander the streets of Hoi An and feel immediately immersed in the colonial history of Vietnam. Do the same in Hue and imagine the era of emperors and grand palaces.

The best way to really understand the history and culture of Vietnam is to hire a tour guide when visiting historical sites so that you can hear the stories and anecdotes that bring these places to life.

Destinations

Vietnam highlights: Vietnam Historical Sites

Not sure where you want to go yet? Get inspired and browse the best places to visit in Vietnam

Hanoi

Hanoi is one of those cities with a personality so rich and multi-layered, it seems more like a person than a place. Founded in 1010, Vietnam’s capital city has more than a thousand years of history. Inevitably, it’s the birthplace of heroes, artists, kings, and legends. Travelers will find themselves easily taken in by Hanoi’s treasures, and there’s so much to see.

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Ho Chi Minh City

There’s no better place to get a feel for urban Vietnam than the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City. This is Vietnam's largest city and one of the country's most free-spirited destinations. Still referred to as ‘Saigon’ by locals, it is known for hordes of motorbikes, mouthwatering food, and hip coffee shops.

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Hoi An

If ever Vietnam had its own storybook town, it would be Hoi An. It’s a rare traveler who fails to be taken in by Hoi An’s rich history and enchanted by its shimmering lanterns.

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Hue

For every Vietnamese city that races headlong into the future, there’s one that’s just as firmly rooted in past. Hue is a historical destination and a fantastic stop for travelers who want to plunge into Vietnamese culture. This city isn’t completely frozen in time — Apple stores, large hotels, and sleek pubs have begun pop up just beyond historic district — but Hue is still largely a city where life drifts along with the leisurely current of the Perfume River.

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Con Dao Islands

Located nearly 62 miles (100 km) off the coast of southern Vietnam, the Con Dao islands are some of the most remote places you can travel in Vietnam. Boasting picture-perfect beaches and some of the most luxurious resorts in the country, Con Dao is a very special island getaway. Con Dao is an archipelago of 15 islands and the biggest, Con Son, was once a brutal penal colony. Today, it is a seldom visited but staggeringly beautiful collection of islands that likely won’t stay quiet for too long.

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Thanh Hoa

Thanh Hoa is on the northern coast of Vietnam, bordered by the East Sea. There isn’t much here as far as visitor attractions, but visitors may use this city as a home base while they explore the surrounding countryside and nature reserves.

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Dalat

Because of its remote location, the “honeymoon capital” of Vietnam is often overlooked by international travelers. Although it has changed greatly from the days when it was a French settlement, Dalat’s countryside charm and romantic atmosphere endure — Dalat is known for its abundant and colorful flowers, and December to February is the best time to see the city in bloom. Nature lovers will find themselves spoilt for choice with excellent hiking, picturesque lakes, and splendid waterfalls all within easy reach.

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Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh City

Hoi An

Hue

Con Dao Islands

Thanh Hoa

Dalat

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Avoid the crowds in private day tours.

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