Iconic Vietnam
Vietnam has had a tumultuous history. These iconic destinations bear witness and visits to these places provide an educational experience like no other. Reading is one thing. Seeing an iconic place in person leaves an indelible impression.
11 Iconic Vietnam
The places our local insiders recommend most come first.
Khai Dinh Tomb
Vietnam’s 12th Nguyen Emperor broke from many of the traditions set in stone by his predecessors’ tombs. Instead of separating his crypt and temple, Khai Dinh housed both in Thien Dinh Palace — a single structure built into the side of a steep hill on the outskirts of Hue. The overall area of the tomb occupies a much smaller parcel of land than many of the other tombs, but it is easily the most opulent and flamboyant.
Destination
Minh Mang Tomb
Built with the help of 10,000 workers and artists, Emperor Minh Mang’s tomb manages to strike a perfect balance between the stately and the sublime. Travelers looking for a photo-worthy example of Nguyen Dynasty architecture will find it here.
Destination
Golden Sand Dune Mui Ne
Leave the beaches behind to see the Golden Sand Dune of Mui Ne. These dunes are majestic and feel far removed from the busy seaside town. The winds change their shape every day, ensuring that no one ever photographs the same dunes twice.
Destination
Love Valley
Love Valley makes for a pleasant stroll on a sunny afternoon in Dalat. This garden showcases Dalat’s famous blooms as well as kitschy, cartoonish statues. (Lots of people prefer to use the adjective “tacky,” but we’ll let you be the judge!) Come here to appreciate stunning views of Da Thien Lake and experience the unique ambiance of many a Vietnamese courtship and honeymoon.
Destination
Tu Duc Tomb
The artistic Emperor Tu Duc left behind an intricate tomb and a legacy plagued by upheaval. He faced the first waves of French colonialism and had a long reign filled with intrigue, including one coup attempt. The longest reigning of the Nguyen Emperors, Tu Duc sat on the throne from 1848 to 1883. He had no heir of his own, as a bout with smallpox in his childhood left him unable to have children. His reign marked the end of an era and soon after his death Vietnam fell to the French.
Destination
Saigon Opera House
Though it has been renamed the Saigon Municipal Theatre for some time now, everyone in Ho Chi Minh City still refers to the elegant building in the center of Lam Son Square as the Saigon Opera House.
Destination
Marble Mountain
Marble Mountain is just a short drive from Da Nang. These mountains are made of a mixture of marble and limestone, although nowadays the marble is left intact.
Destination
Bao Dai Palace
See Vietnam’s quirky side at the last Emperor of Vietnam’s summer palace. This unique building in the hills outside of Dalat is like nothing else you’ll see in the country.
Destination
Phat Diem Stone Church
Phat Diem Stone Cathedral is a prime example of blended Eastern and Western architecture. Visitors to Ninh Binh come here to see an aesthetic shaped by Vietnamese Catholicism, built toward the end of the French colonial reign. On the outside, the cathedral looks traditionally Vietnamese, but inside the church looks more distinctly European.
Destination
Saigon Central Post Office
For a long time, there was confusion about who the architect was that designed the Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City. Today we know it was not Gustave Eiffel – as was long reported – but in fact, a lesser-known character named Alfred Foulhoux who envisioned and created the grand structure that still captivates everyone who comes through its doors.
Destination
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral
One of the most recognisable landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, the Notre-Dame Cathedral occupies the Công xã Paris (Paris Roundabout) in District 1, flanked by a stately tree-lined park and the historic Saigon Post Office. The cathedral was officially commissioned after several thwarted attempts by the Roman Catholic Church to build a church for believers in Vietnam’s southern capital.
Destination
Iconic Vietnam itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Iconic Vietnam itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
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.
Vietnam
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
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
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.
Vietnam
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.
Vietnam
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!
Vietnam
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.
Vietnam
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.
Vietnam
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.
Vietnam
Insider-led Vietnam Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
