Vietnam is a land of breathtaking beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, home to some of the world’s most captivating famous landmarks. From emerald bays dotted with karsts to ancient imperial palaces, these iconic sites tell the story of Vietnam’s past and present. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, these top 7 famous landmarks in Vietnam are must-visits that will leave you in awe. As of June 2025, these destinations continue to enchant travelers with their timeless allure. 

1. Ha Long Bay – The Emerald Jewel of Quang Ninh

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Ninh Province, is one of Vietnam’s most famous landmarks, renowned for its 1,600 limestone karsts rising from turquoise waters. Legend says dragons created the bay to protect Vietnam, giving it a mystical charm.

• Why Visit: The bay’s surreal landscape, with hidden caves and floating villages, is perfect for kayaking (200,000 VND, $8 USD) or overnight cruises (1,500,000 VND, $60 USD).
• Access: A 3-hour drive from Hanoi to Ha Long City, followed by a cruise from Tuan Chau Port. Day trips start at 500,000 VND ($20 USD).
• Highlights: Explore Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and floating fishing communities. Sunset views from the deck are unforgettable.

Ha Long Bay’s ethereal beauty makes it a top famous landmark, best experienced with local tours for insider insights into its legends.

2. Forbidden Purple City Hue – The Heart of Imperial Vietnam

Nestled within the Hue Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City Hue in Thua Thien Hue Province is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most famous landmarks. Built in the early 19th century for the Nguyen Dynasty, this exclusive enclave housed emperors and their courts.

• Why Visit: Wander through restored palaces like Can Thanh and explore war-scarred ruins, offering a glimpse into royal life. Entry costs 200,000 VND ($8 USD).
• Access: A 10-minute cyclo ride (50,000 VND, $2 USD) from Hue’s city center or a 2.5-hour drive from Da Nang. Open 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Highlights: Visit the Thai Hoa Palace and Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theatre. Pair with a Perfume River boat ride (150,000 VND, $6 USD).

The Forbidden Purple City Hue is a historical gem, enriched by a Local Buddy who can share royal tales.

3. Notre-Dame Basilica Saigon – The French Colonial Icon

In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Notre-Dame Basilica Saigon (Duc Ba Church) is a striking famous landmark, built by French colonists between 1863 and 1880. Its twin bell towers and red-brick facade dominate District 1’s skyline.

• Why Visit: The basilica’s serene interior and historical significance make it a peaceful retreat. Entry is free, with Sunday masses open to visitors.
• Access: A 5-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market or a 15-minute taxi from Tan Son Nhat Airport (100,000 VND, $4 USD).
• Highlights: Snap photos with the Virgin Mary statue out front and visit the nearby Saigon Central Post Office, another French-era gem (free entry).

This famous landmark blends colonial charm with modern vibrancy, perfect for a city stroll.

4. Dragon Bridge Da Nang – The Fiery Modern Marvel

The Dragon Bridge Da Nang, spanning 666 meters across the Han River, is one of Vietnam’s most famous landmarks, known for its dragon-shaped design and weekend fire-and-water shows. Opened in 2013, it symbolizes Da Nang’s modernity.

• Why Visit: The free fire-breathing spectacle at 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays draws crowds. The bridge’s LED lights create a dazzling nighttime display.
• Access: A 10-minute walk from Da Nang’s city center or a 15-minute taxi from My Khe Beach (80,000 VND, $3.20 USD).
• Highlights: Walk the pedestrian path for river views or dine at nearby An Thuong Night Market (seafood dishes from 50,000 VND, $2 USD).

The Dragon Bridge Da Nang is a must-see for its blend of innovation and spectacle.

5. Hoi An Ancient Town – The Lantern-Lit Time Capsule

Hoi An Ancient Town in Quang Nam Province, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Vietnam’s most famous landmarks, celebrated for its preserved 15th-century architecture and glowing lanterns. This port town once thrived as a trading hub.

• Why Visit: Stroll through car-free streets, explore ancient shophouses, and join the lantern festival on full-moon nights. Entry to key sites costs 120,000 VND ($4.80 USD).
• Access: A 30-minute drive from Da Nang (150,000 VND, $6 USD by taxi) or a 5-minute walk from Hoi An’s bus station.
• Highlights: Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky House. Savor cao lau noodles (40,000 VND, $1.60 USD) at local eateries.

Hoi An’s timeless charm makes it a beloved famous landmark, perfect for cultural immersion with local tours.

6. Marble Mountains – Da Nang’s Spiritual Heights

The Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills in Da Nang, are among Vietnam’s famous landmarks, blending natural beauty with spiritual significance. Each hill, named for an element (water, wood, fire, metal, earth), houses caves and pagodas.

• Why Visit: Explore hidden caves, climb to scenic viewpoints, and visit Buddhist shrines. Entry is 40,000 VND ($1.60 USD), with an elevator option (15,000 VND, $0.60 USD).
• Access: A 15-minute drive from Da Nang’s city center (100,000 VND, $4 USD by taxi) or a 20-minute bike ride from My Khe Beach.
• Highlights: Discover Huyen Khong Cave’s massive Buddha statue and enjoy panoramic coastal views from Thuy Son (Water Mountain).

The Marble Mountains offer a spiritual and scenic adventure, ideal for day-trippers.

7. Cu Chi Tunnels – A Testament to Resilience

The Cu Chi Tunnels, 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, are a famous landmark showcasing Vietnam’s wartime ingenuity. This 250-km underground network, used by Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, includes living quarters and trapdoors.

• Why Visit: Crawl through narrow tunnels (widened for tourists) and learn about guerrilla tactics. Entry costs 120,000 VND ($4.80 USD), with guided tours at 200,000 VND ($8 USD).
• Access: A 1.5-hour drive from District 1 (500,000 VND, $20 USD by taxi) or a half-day bus tour (300,000 VND, $12 USD).
• Highlights: See hidden entrances, try tapioca (a wartime staple), and visit the firing range (extra cost). Wear comfortable clothes for crawling.

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a powerful historical famous landmark, offering insight into Vietnam’s resilience.

Practical Tips for Visiting Vietnam’s Famous Landmarks

To make the most of these famous landmarks, consider these tips:

• When to Visit: September to April offers mild weather (20-30°C, 68-86°F) for sites like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An Ancient Town. Avoid July-August monsoons in the north.
• Getting Around: Domestic flights (500,000 VND, $20 USD) connect Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Local taxis (50,000-100,000 VND, $2-4 USD) or motorbike rentals (120,000 VND, $5 USD/day) are ideal for short distances.
• What to Pack: Light clothing, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and small VND notes (10,000-50,000) for entry fees. Respect dress codes at sites like Notre-Dame Basilica Saigon (cover shoulders and knees).
• Etiquette: Use “xin chào” (hello) to greet locals and ask permission before photographing people at cultural sites.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s famous landmarks, from the misty karsts of Ha Long Bay to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, offer a journey through the country’s heart and soul. Each site, whether a natural wonder like the Marble Mountains or a cultural treasure like Hoi An Ancient Town, tells a unique story that captivates travelers. These top 7 landmarks are your gateway to Vietnam’s beauty and heritage, promising memories to last a lifetime. Ready to explore these icons like a local? Book a Local Buddy or local tours with Tubudd to uncover Vietnam’s hidden stories—download the app now and start your adventure!

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