Vietnam, a country of contrasts, offers a tapestry of experiences for every traveler. While bustling cities and iconic landmarks like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An rightfully steal the spotlight, the true essence of the country lies in its hidden gems. Let’s embark on a journey to discover these lesser-known treasures, each with its own unique charm and allure. We have curated a list of some underrated places in Vietnam that are worth an addition to your next getaway!
Coastal Paradise
Con Dao Island
For a truly secluded escape, head to Con Dao Island, a pristine archipelago located off the southern coast of Vietnam. This former penal colony has transformed into a captivating destination, boasting stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and a rich historical legacy.
Explore the island’s diverse marine life through snorkeling or diving, hike through the lush national park, or simply unwind on the secluded beaches. Con Dao Island offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
How to Reach Con Dao
By Air: For a quicker option, daily flights depart from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao’s modest airport. This convenient route allows you to reach the island in approximately an hour.
By Ferry: If you prefer a more leisurely journey, you can take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Soc Trang and then board a two-hour ferry to Con Dao. While it takes longer, this option offers a chance to experience Vietnam’s coastal landscape.
Lan Ha Bay, Quảng Ninh Province
Discover the hidden charm of Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded alternative to Ha Long Bay. Explore its pristine waters, limestone karsts, and floating fishing villages.
How to Reach Lan Ha Bay
You can catch a bus from Ha Noi to Hai Phong city, which takes approximately three hours. Once in Hai Phong, you can board a ferry to Cat Ba Island, the gateway to the stunning Lan Ha Bay.
Quy Nhon, Bình Định Province
Discover the unspoiled beauty of Quy Nhon, a coastal city known for its pristine beaches, historic sites, and vibrant local culture.
Relax on the sandy shores of Quy Nhon Beach, explore the ancient Cham ruins of Thap Ba, and embark on a boat trip to the nearby islands for snorkeling and diving adventures.
How to Reach Quy Nhon
By Bus: Approximately 1,070 km from Hanoi and 652 km from Ho Chi Minh City. You can book Sleeper buses with reclining seats or beds for a comfortable journey.
By Train: 10 hours from Ho Chi Minh City, train to Quy Nhon can be a good option.
By Plane: Flying to Quy Nhon is a luxury choice and takes approximately 1-2 hours flight time from major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However this is a costlier option, ideal for travelers with limited time and no budget constraints.
Authentic Experiences
Cai Rang Floating Market, Mekong Delta
Cai Rang Floating Market is a must-see if you are looking for a unique local experience in Mekong Delta. This bustling marketplace comes alive at dawn, with hundreds of boats laden with fresh produce, fruits, and local delicacies.
Embark on a boat tour to witness the vibrant spectacle of traders haggling and exchanging goods directly from their vessels. Savor a traditional Vietnamese breakfast on a floating restaurant, and immerse yourself in the authentic charm of this iconic Mekong Delta experience. This market is easily accessible from Can Tho – six kilometers and a 40 minute boat ride away.
How to Reach
You can book a Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho bus via top operators like Phương Trang. When booking Vietnam bus tickets, you can opt for online platforms like redBus, explore promo codes and get cheapest bus tickets for your travel.
Tra Que Vegetable Village, Hội An
Hoi An is much more than the Hoi An Lantern Festival celebrations. Besides the ancient architecture, there is a lot of local culture to experience. Immerse yourself in the world of traditional farming at Tra Que Vegetable Village, where locals grow organic vegetables using age-old techniques. Learn about the local farming practices and enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal.
Spiritual Feels at Cao Dai Temple
Nestled in the heart of Tây Ninh Province, the Cao Dai Temple stands as a testament to Vietnam’s unique religious landscape. This extraordinary place of worship is a captivating blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles, reflecting the syncretic nature of the Cao Dai faith itself.
The temple’s most striking feature is its iconic eye, symbolizing the all-seeing eye of God, which dominates the central dome. Inside, a kaleidoscope of colors and intricate details adorn the walls and ceilings, creating a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. The harmonious fusion of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity, and Islam within the Cao Dai faith is evident in the temple’s architecture, rituals, and symbolism.
How to Reach Cao Dai Temple
Located in Tay Ninh Province, the temple is approximately 90 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. You can opt for a guided tour, hire a private car or choose public transport to travel. Several bus companies operate routes from Ho Chi Minh City to Tay Ninh. You can find these buses at the Ben Thanh Market bus station. If you are looking to travel locally using a public bus, hop on the 702 bus which departs from Ben Thanh Market station in Ho Chi Minh City to Tay Ninh. Alternatively, you can opt for bus no 13 to Cu Chi and from there take one of the many buses to Tay Ninh.
For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike can be a thrilling way to explore the countryside, but be aware of traffic conditions and safety measures.
Natural Wonders
Cave Exploration at the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vast cave systems, including the world’s largest cave, Son Doong. But Phong Nha’s allure extends far beyond its superlative claim to fame.
Hang En, the world’s third-largest cave, stands as a testament to the park’s subterranean grandeur. And these two giants are just the beginning. Tens of other caves await exploration, each offering unique formations, hidden rivers, and breathtaking chambers. In fact, Phong Nha has become a global hotspot for caving expeditions, catering to adventurers of all levels.
Embark on a thrilling adventure through the underground river, marvel at the intricate stalactite and stalagmite formations, and witness the raw power of nature.
How to Reach Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
To reach Phong Nha- Ke Bang National Park, you can take a bus, train or flight as per your budget.
Mountainous Escape at Mai Chau
Ditch Sapa and check out the mountains of Mai Chau this time. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Mai Chau, a mountainous region inhabited by the Hmong and Thai ethnic minorities. Hike through lush rice terraces, explore traditional stilt houses, and experience the warm hospitality of the local people.
How to Reach Mai Chau
Mai Chau is connected to the main cities of Vietnam via good means of transport. While there are local buses from Hanoi to Mai Chau, you can also book a bus from Hanoi to Mai Chau and enjoy a 3 hour drive on limousine cars from Manh Kien Limousine or Mr. Dung Limousine.
Takeaway
These are just a few of the many hidden gems that Vietnam has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there’s something for everyone. So, venture off the beaten path, explore these underrated destinations, and discover the true essence of Vietnam. The true beauty of this country lies in its diversity and the countless experiences waiting to be discovered.