Vietnam, located along the South China Sea is known for its stunning rivers and beaches, as well as a rich and captivating history. Infused with such variety, this treasure in the heart of Southeast Asia has a destination and experience for everyone, whether it’s marveling across an endless expanse of rice fields as they play a deep and essential part of Vietnamese life, or exploring the incredible caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. There is just so much waiting to be uncovered in Vietnam.

Here are the best locations that will make you fall in love with Vietnam:

The Natural Wonders of Vietnam

If you love all things nature, then the Marble Mountains are a must-see attraction. The Marble Mountains are a breathtaking formation of five marble and limestone hills, situated in Vietnam’s Ngu Hanh Son District. These aren’t just hills or mountains though, covered in indigenous plants and vegetation with a beautiful pagoda rising from the undergrowth, the Marble Mountains are visually astounding. The mountains all have various cave entrances and multiple tunnels that run throughout, perfect for explorers who want to see the incredible underground spaces. Within the mountains there are multiple Buddhist sanctuaries, making this the perfect destination to experience both the stunning landscapes of Vietnam, as well as the deep religious roots and history of the area.

Another of Vietnam’s natural and maybe most picturesque locations is Cham Island, which is actually a cluster of eight beautiful islands. A popular tourist attraction due to its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches and protected marine habitats, whilst exploring the islands you will find restaurants, guided tours, and the Hai Tang Pagoda.

Marble Mountains

Vietnamese Religious and Cultural Sites

If you wish to experience new and interesting cultures or religions, then Vietnam is the place for you. Vietnam has a wide range of practiced religions, including the Vietnamese folk religion, Buddhism and Christianity.  The Thien Mu Pagoda, also called the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady, is one of many breathtaking Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam, with seven stories it the highest building in Vietnam. This is also considered by many as the unofficial landmark of the former imperial capital making it the perfect location if you want to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture or local religion and history.

However, the most religiously important location is perhaps the Perfume Pagoda, located in Hanoi and accessible only by boat or foot, the Perfume Pagoda really must be seen to be fully appreciated. The pagoda itself is located inside an immense cave that is carved out of limestone into the Huong Tich mountains. However, the Perfume Pagoda is more than ‘just a pagoda’. Inside the cave is a spectacular complex of Buddhist temples and shrines, with thousands of pilgrims traveling to the site every spring to pray for health and prosperity in the New Year.

En Route to the Perfume Pagoda

Landmarks, Parks, & Wildlife Reserves

Ba Vi National Park is a phenomenal place to visit and Ba Vi Mountain itself offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Not only is the park home to rare and endangered plants, but also several rare mammals, including two different species of flying squirrels and a thriving bird community. Whilst exploring the beautiful landscape and scenery you can also visit an orchid or bird garden, in-between hiking through picturesque forested slopes. There is also a temple dedicated to Ho Chi Minh at the summit of the mountain, which is only a 30-minute climb to the peak.

Another important monument in Vietnam is The Tomb of Ming Mang. Located in An Bang village, close to the Perfume River, Ming Mang’s tomb was planned during his 20 year reign from 1820-1840 but was eventually built by his successor, Thieu Tri. The architecture of the building, teamed with the beautiful forested surroundings, make this location seem like something out of a film or fantasy novel. Ming Mang’s sepulcher sits at the end of a stone bridge, allowing you to walk across the Tan Nguyet Lake, or Lake of the New Moon.

And then there is The Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh City. This impressive structure is steeped with political history and features original 1960’s era architecture on the outside and dated interior design on the inside. Walking through the abandoned halls gives an eerie vibe of having been transported back to the 1970’s, from the outdated décor and strange exhibits, such as horse tails and severed elephant’s feet. And then there is the basement where the war room and winding tunnels beneath the building are ideal for urban explorers.

Reunification Palace

Underground Tunnels and Ancient Towns

If you have an interest in the Vietnamese war or the history of what happened in Vietnam during that time, then the Cu Chi Tunnels are an essential travel location. Visiting Vietnam today will show little evidence of what happened in Vietnam all those years ago, however the underground tunnels of Cu Chi will show the inner workings of what the people of Vietnam accomplished during this time. At the peak of its use the tunnel systems reached all the way from the capital of South Vietnam to the Cambodian border. Just in the district of Cu Chi there are more than 250km of tunnels stretching underground. It could almost be called an underground city, with parts of the tunnels reaching several stories deep. The tunnels feature storage areas, weapon factories, kitchens, hospital areas and command centers, as well as living quarters.

Phuoc Tich Village is the perfect destination if you want to experience the authentic Vietnam lifestyle. This small yet charming village dates back to the 15^th century, and is home to fishermen and workers of the many rice and vegetable fields that sustain the Vietnam economy. As you walk around the village you will get to see ancient houses and all the history of rural Vietnam.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Vietnam really is an exceptionally beautiful location, with something for everyone. These areas are just a few of the many hidden treasures Vietnam has to offer, with hundreds more temples, pagodas, cities and forests also waiting to be uncovered. Create you Vietnam adventure now.