Iconic Vietnam
VietnamVietnam 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.
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.
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.
Explore DestinationMinh 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.
Explore DestinationGolden 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.
Explore DestinationLove 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.
Explore DestinationTu 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.
Explore DestinationFeatured 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.
More Iconic Vietnam
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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