Historic Attractions

Vietnam

Historic attractions bear witness to some of the most important moments in Vietnam’s long history. These attractions will help you understand the Vietnam of today.

Historic Attractions
Destinations

Vietnam Highlights

A curated look at the best Vietnam has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Hue Imperial Enclosure

Hue Imperial Enclosure

In 1804, Emperor Gia Long, the newly recognized ruler of a unified Vietnam, began building his feudal capital in a spot carefully chosen according to geomantic principles. A military man by nature, Gia Long ordered the construction of a wall (6.2 miles) 10 km long and 6.5 feet (2 m) thick, to surround the new Imperial City. Inside these walls, travelers can still glimpse the glory of the Nguyen Dynasty in what remains of the Hue Citadel.

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Old town Hoi An

Old town Hoi An

An active trading port from the 15th to late 19th centuries, Hoi An was a true melting pot of cultural influences. Merchants from China, Japan, and Europe settled on the north bank of the Thu Bon River, adding the architectural styles of their home countries to their new abodes.

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Old house of Tan Ky

Old house of Tan Ky

One of the best examples of an 18th-century merchant home anywhere in Hoi An, the Tan Ky House has been diligently preserved through the years by seven generations of one Vietnamese family.

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Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Not far from the karsts of Ninh Binh, you can also visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Travelers often combine a boating trip to Trang An with a stop at this ancient capital. This capital dates back to the 10th century, and served as the capital of a kingdom called Dai Co Viet, a forerunner of modern-day Vietnam.

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Old Quarter

Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the historic heart of the city, and one of the few places in Vietnam that retains much of its original architecture, street layout, and chaotic charm. There are 36 narrow, winding streets that make up Old Quarter, situated just north and within easy walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Vietnam Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Vietnam itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

22 days | $$$

Deep into Vietnam & Cambodia

Our favourite country so far, 2nd time going. The food is amazing, the history and culture are vibrant and fabulous to participate in, and the people are so warm, friendly, kind and welcoming. It’s inexpensive but top quality and everywhere you go, you are welcomed. They work hard to help you and are open to learning English and happy to work with you via translate apps etc to accommodate anything from ordering food, to paying for items, to directions to places. Every menu had photos and moat things have English descriptions too. English is widely spoken too. There’s so much to see and do in the country that there’s something for everyone no matter what you’re interested in.

Deep into Vietnam & Cambodia
17 days | $$$

Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Immersion

Tali explored the cultural tapestry of Vietnam and Cambodia on a 17‑day adventure. Travelers trekked from Hanoi’s bustling streets to Ninh Binh’s karst cliffs, glided through Halong Bay, explored Hoi An’s lantern river, and toured Angkor’s temples. Friendly local hosts and knowledgeable guides brought history to life, leaving Tali with a deep appreciation for the region’s vibrant traditions and timeless landscapes.

Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand  Immersion
7 days | $$$

Vietnam's Saigon and Mekong to Siem Reap and Phnom Penh Cambodia

This itinerary was designed by our experts to showcase the range of experiences we can cater to in Vietnam and Cambodia trip. All services are 100% customizable to fit your travel dates, budget, and preferences. Do you need to find different hotels, alternative lodging or other activities? Our experts in Southeast Asia can assist you with your requests. Send us an email to book your personal trip to Vietnam and Cambodia.

Vietnam's Saigon and Mekong to Siem Reap and Phnom Penh Cambodia
13 days | $$$

Extraordinary Vietnam and Cambodia Highlights

Extraordinary Vietnam and Cambodia Highlights
9 days | $$$

The Cities Hanoi, Hue, and Hoi An Vietnam plus Angkor Cambodia

The Cities Hanoi, Hue, and Hoi An Vietnam plus Angkor Cambodia
7 days | $$$

Saigon and Mekong Cruise in Vietnam plus Siem Reap Cambodia

This itinerary will help you plan a trip to Vietnam or Cambodia. All services can be customized to meet your travel preferences, dates and budget. Are you looking for alternative lodging, activities or hotels? You can count on the expertise of our local experts in Southeast Asia to meet your needs. For a personalized trip to Vietnam or Cambodia, get in touch with us today.

Saigon and Mekong Cruise in Vietnam plus Siem Reap Cambodia
14 days | $$$

6 Vietnam Highlights plus Angkor Cambodia Angkor Archaeology

6 Vietnam Highlights plus Angkor Cambodia Angkor Archaeology
10 days | $$$

Cruise the Mekong River from Siem Reap Cambodia to Saigon Vietnam

This itinerary is the starting point for a great trip to Vietnam & Cambodia. All services can be customized to suit your travel needs, dates, and budget. You may be looking for hotels or other options, such as alternative lodging. Our local experts will help you in Southeast Asia. Get in touch to plan your trip to Vietnam, Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries.

Cruise the Mekong River from Siem Reap Cambodia to Saigon Vietnam
14 days | $$$

2 Weeks Exploring Vietnam and Laos

2 Weeks Exploring Vietnam and Laos
10 days | $$$

Explore from North Vietnam to Luang Prabang Laos

Explore from North Vietnam to Luang Prabang Laos
10 days | $$$

See the Best of Vietnam and Laos

See the Best of Vietnam and Laos
17 days | $$$

Our Ultimate Vietnamese Adventure

Return home as an expert of Vietnam after taking your family on this incredible journey, exploring all of the nation’s highlights. Don't worry, you'll still have time to relax!

Our Ultimate Vietnamese Adventure
8 days | $$$

Solo Excitement in Vietnam

Treat yourself to a getaway where you can relax and unwind. Explore when you want to, and make the most of your ‘me time’ on the beach when you want to. This is Vietnam YOUR way.

Solo Excitement in Vietnam
14 days | $$$

This Vacation Will Be Legendary!

This is the ‘see it all’ trip that you and your friends have been craving. Travel across Vietnam as you explore sights, cuisine, and awesome adventures. This vacation, go big!

This Vacation Will Be Legendary!
7 days | $$$

Our Big Adventure in Vietnam

You and your best mates are going on a grand excursion of Northern Vietnam. Enjoy the nation’s diverse activities and landscapes; highlights include Mai Chau’s ecolodge and Sapa.

Our Big Adventure in Vietnam
Anywhere Vietnam

More Historic Attractions

There's always more to discover in Vietnam. From off-the-beaten-path gems to well-loved classics, these destinations are worth adding to your itinerary.

Sapa Stone Church

Sapa Stone Church is in the center of busy downtown Sapa. It faces the main town square, and is evidence of the Vietnam’s European connections – it was built in 1935 by the French. This church isn’t necessarily a visitor attraction, but people do use the steps as a convenient meeting place.

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Reunification Palace

Originally named the Presidential Palace, the Reunification Palace was a key chess piece in the struggle between the North Vietnamese Communist Party and the US-backed South Vietnamese government. On April 30, 1975, two tanks manned by the National Liberation Front crashed through the palace gates, forcing the surrender of the South Vietnamese president, who turned over power after only two days in office. The palace was promptly renamed, while the takeover signified the end of the war and two decades of American presence in South Vietnam.

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Japanese Covered Bridge

Spanning a small stream at one end of Tran Phu St. is perhaps the most photographed bridge in all of Vietnam. The Japanese Bridge was built by merchants in the years between 1593 to 1595. The structure linked the communities of Japanese traders and Chinese traders on either side of the bridge, and was originally named ‘Lai Van Kieu’ or “Bridge of Friends from Faraway Places.”

Japanese Covered Bridge Image
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