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.

8 days | $$$

Action & Relaxin’ in Vietnam

Explore Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, and Vung Tau. Tour the Mekong, learn about Ho Chi Minh City’s French ties; then, relax on a sun soaked beach. #PerfectVacation

 Action & Relaxin’ 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!
10 days | $$$

Action & Adventure in Vietnam

Adventure and excitement await you and your family when you indulge in an active trip across Vietnam. Perfect for older children and teens, take your family off the beaten path.

Action & Adventure in Vietnam
15 days | $$$

My Journey, My Way in Vietnam

This luxurious solo getaway features stunning accommodations in cities and the countryside. A variety of curated private activities let you experience Vietnam in greater detail.

My Journey, My Way in Vietnam
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 | $$$

C'Mon My Love, We're Headed North!

Northern Vietnam offers incredible landscapes towards the border of China, and a variety of awesome adventures. Sample the cuisine and the culture on this Signature Trip.

C'Mon My Love, We're Headed North!
8 days | $$$

We MUST See...Vietnam Together

From Halong Bay by seaplane to Saigon at night by Vespa, you’re going on a grand tour of Northern Vietnam. Share great meals and great times with your favorite travel companion.

We MUST See...Vietnam Together
8 days | $$$

3 Cities in Vietnam, and My Love

Explore the cuisines and cultures of Vietnam’s most influential cities on this whirlwind tour of North, Central, and South Vietnam. Enjoy exciting activities and stunning scenery.

3 Cities in Vietnam, and My Love
8 days | $$$

Our Family Week in Vietnam

You and your family are in for an eventful week when you go on a grand tour of Vietnam. It's perfect for families on a tight schedule, without making you feel pressed for time.

Our Family Week in Vietnam
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
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
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

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
7 days | $$$

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

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

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