Things to visit in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat & Phan Thiet

When planning a trip to Southeast Asia, many might have heard that Vietnam can be a bit dangerous. But let me tell you, my family and I had a fantastic time exploring Southern Vietnam, and we didn’t run into any dangerous situations at all! In fact, Vietnam is definitely one of my top recommendations for travel destinations. Just a heads-up, though: keep an eye out for those little shops with suspicious reviews on Google—better safe than sorry! So, let’s dive into a detailed 7-day itinerary with things to do in Vietnam, highlighting my favorite spots to visit.

Planning Your Southeast Asia Adventure: A Trip to Southern Vietnam

This article will guide you on how to plan a 7-day trip in Southern Vietnam, especially featuring the lesser-known gems of Dalat and Phan Thiet. If you’re headed to Ho Chi Minh City, you absolutely cannot miss these spots! This travel guide will cover everything from the best time to visit Vietnam to how to get around. We’ve got you covered!

Ho Chi Minh City: A Cultural Melting Pot

In Ho Chi Minh City, the fusion of French and Vietnamese cultures is everywhere you look, adding a unique charm to the city. It’s a delightful blend of old-world European elegance and the vibrant energy of Southeast Asia—this is why I absolutely adore it! And let’s not forget the food: Vietnamese cuisine infused with French flair and local Southeast Asian flavors makes for a deliciously spicy and tangy experience that’s rich in texture.

Suitable Travel Duration

Vietnam is great for all kinds of travelers with varying schedules. However, a 7-day itinerary can feel a bit rushed if you want to cover everything from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet. You might have to skim over some attractions or skip a few altogether. So, it’s best to choose key highlights based on your own schedule and what you want to see in Vietnam. Here’s a breakdown of popular destinations in Vietnam by region and the recommended number of days to spend at each:

Where to visit in Northern Vietnam

– Hanoi: Recommended 3 days. As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is rich with historical sites and cultural landmarks like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Old Quarter.

– **Halong Bay**: Recommended 1-2 days. This iconic natural wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can cruise through emerald waters and towering limestone islands.

– **Sapa**: Recommended 2 days. Located about 350 kilometers northwest of Hanoi, Sapa is known for its stunning terraced rice fields and unique ethnic cultures.

Places to go in Central Vietnam

– **Da Nang**: Recommended 2-3 days. As Vietnam’s fourth-largest city, Da Nang offers a mix of urban and natural beauty, with mountains, rivers, and beaches. Visit attractions like Marble Mountains and Linh Ung Pagoda.

– **Hoi An**: Recommended 1-2 days. The ancient town of Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved old town, showcasing influences from Chinese, Japanese, and European architecture. Stroll through the streets, admiring colorful lanterns and bustling markets.

– **Hue**: Recommended 2 days. As the capital of Thua Thien Hue Province, Hue is known for its historic architecture, including the Imperial City, which is reminiscent of Beijing’s Forbidden City.

– **My Son Sanctuary**: Recommended 1 day. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to the lost Cham civilization and is a must-visit for history buffs.

Things to visits in Southern Vietnam

– **Ho Chi Minh City**: Recommended 2-3 days. As Vietnam’s economic hub, Ho Chi Minh City is a blend of modernity and history. Don’t miss the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market.

– **Nha Trang**: Recommended 2-3 days. This coastal city boasts stunning beaches and an array of water activities. Relax on the beach or dive in for some snorkeling or scuba diving fun.

– **Dalat**: Recommended 2-3 days. With a French vibe, Dalat is a highland city known for its fresh air and beautiful gardens. Explore sites like Love Valley and Xuan Huong Lake.

– **Mui Ne**: Recommended 2-3 days. This picturesque beach town is famous for its stunning sand dunes and tranquil beaches. Enjoy soaking up the sun and try your hand at sandboarding!

Islands Exploring in Vietnam

– **Phu Quoc Island**: Recommended 3-4 days. As Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc is known for its pristine beaches and rich natural resources. Swim, snorkel, and explore the island’s vibrant national parks.

– **Con Dao Islands**: Recommended 3-4 days. With easy access via a daily flight, the Con Dao Islands offer beautiful resorts and stunning beaches, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Vietnam is a long country, and if you have a month to spare, traveling from north to south is a fantastic way to experience its beauty. However, for most 9-5 routine folks, international travel is often time-limited. So planning a trip focused on either northern, central, or southern Vietnam will be more manageable. 

Even though our trip was focused on Southern Vietnam, we had to weigh our options and skip Nha Trang, since we’d already enjoyed a lot of snorkeling and water activities in Thailand. Instead, we opted for the lesser-known Mui Ne, with its stunning red and white sand dunes, and it’s super close to Phan Thiet. I love exploring the quieter towns and cities where you can see local life unfold!

Best Time to Visit Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam has a diverse climate, but generally, the best time to visit is from November to April. During this period, rainfall is relatively low, and the weather is pleasantly dry, making it perfect for both city exploration and beach relaxation. 

One major tip: Avoid the Lunar New Year (Tet) , which usually falls around January to February to fully enjoy things to visit in Vietnam. Many shops close during this time, and taxis or Grab rides can get pricey and hard to come by. Plus, domestic flight schedules may be affected, causing fewer options and potential price increases.

Detailed Itinerary Planning for things to do in Vietnam

This itinerary is designed to start and end in Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on where you’re coming from, you can choose which international airport to fly into or out of. For instance, you could fly into Ho Chi Minh City and out of Hanoi, or simply in and out of Ho Chi Minh City. 

(Include a handy map for Southern Vietnam activities!)

Vietnam Itinerary	City	Things to visit in Vietnam(Southern)
Day 1	Ho chi minh city	耶稣圣心堂>中央邮局>歌剧院>统一宫>红教堂>胡志明市博物馆>胡志明市美术馆>人行观景步道>咖啡公寓>范五老街
Day 2	Ho chi minh city > Mui ne	滨城市场+越南咖啡>美奈>Boke 海鲜市场
Day 3	Mui ne	白沙丘>motorbike>phan thiet village>仙女溪>美奈海滩>红沙丘
Day 4	Mui ne	a perfect “lay – back” day in resort
Day 5	Mui ne > Dalat	圣玛丽修道院-Dalat Railway Station>春香湖喝咖啡> V cafe live show
Day 6	Dalat	大叻天主教堂>疯狂的房子>保大避暑行宫>Datanla Waterfall>按摩>大叻夜市
Day 7	Dalat > Ho chi minh city	Cu chi one day tour
Day 8	Ho chi minh city	back home

Day 1 Exploring Ho Chi Minh City

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City the night before and get ready to kick off your Vietnamese adventure bright and early the next day! Day one is packed with classic sights around the city. From the Instagram-worthy pink Notre-Dame Cathedral to culturally rich museums, you’ll be ticking off all the must-see spots. After a bustling day, unwind at the pedestrian promenade or a coffee apartment, sipping on the aromatic Vietnamese drip coffee to ease into the evening.

Day 2-4: Phan Thiet and Mui Ne—Beach Relaxation and Sand Dunes

Experience the mesmerizing sunrise at the white sand dunes and the stunning sunset at the red sand dunes in Mui Ne. Hop on an ATV and channel your inner hero from the movie “Dune” (it’s not quite the same, but it’s still a bit thrilling, haha!). Then, take a leisurely hike through Fairy Stream, listening to the gentle babbling of the water and admiring the unique landscapes. This place exudes the raw, pure essence of nature, showcasing the warmth and authenticity of traditional Vietnamese culture.

I highly recommend staying at a beachside resort because they are some of the most affordable yet high-quality options in Southeast Asia. You’ll definitely feel like you got your money’s worth!

Day 5-6: Dalat— Romantic Highland Getaway

In Dalat, soak in the luxurious vibes of the gardens once enjoyed by royalty and French settlers. Experience the romantic blend of Southeast Asian and French culture, where dopamine-inducing colors meet regal European charm. Don’t miss the St. Mary’s Monastery, a popular retreat for French and European vacationers during the colonial era. Enjoy a cup of coffee by the vast man-made Xuan Huong Lake or visit the quirky hotel designed by the daughter of a former Vietnamese president—known affectionately as the “Crazy House.”

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City—the Tunnels of History

Wrap up your adventure by exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you can immerse yourself in a unique historical and cultural experience of the Vietnam War. 

Itinerary Adjustment or Extension

If you’re a beach lover and have an extra 2-3 days, consider adding Nha Trang to your itinerary. It’s packed with water activities and has convenient flights back to Ho Chi Minh City. 

But if you’re limited to about 5-6 days and aren’t too interested in architecture, you might want to skip Dalat and focus on exploring Ho Chi Minh City and Mui Ne instead.

Things to visit in Vietnam, Southern Region

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City—The Starting Point of Southern Vietnam

For convenience, I recommend booking a hotel in the city center. We chose the Cochin Zen Hotel, allowing us to enjoy a leisurely morning without having to wake up too early but have all things to visit in Vietnam, even though our itinerary looks packed for the day.

In the morning, head to the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica. This church looks like a pink gem sparkling under the sun, exuding a dreamy vibe. Built in the early 20th century during the French colonial period, its unique pink exterior stands out on the bustling street, attracting many tourists for the perfect photo op. Locals often choose this spot for wedding photos, and if the sun is blazing, your pictures will turn out stunning!

Next, visit the Central Post Office, which serves as Ho Chi Minh City’s postal and telecommunications headquarters. This building is steeped in French architectural charm, designed by a French architect. Stepping inside feels like a trip back in time, with its vintage green iron window frames, beautiful mosaic floors, and a stunning mural on the dome. Here, you can not only explore the architecture but also pick up some unique souvenirs or send a postcard to friends and family back home.

In the afternoon, stroll over to the Opera House. Its architecture beautifully blends Western and local Vietnamese elements, appearing grand and elegantly decorated with artistic flair. While it may not have the centuries of history that European opera houses boast, it plays a significant role in Ho Chi Minh City’s cultural scene.

Then, make your way to the Reunification Palace. This site has witnessed significant historical shifts in Vietnam and was once the presidential palace of South Vietnam. The building’s imposing style and the exhibits inside will give you a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s modern history.

Finally, visit the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, affectionately known as the “Red Cathedral” due to its red brick exterior imported from France. Designed to resemble the bell towers of Notre-Dame in Paris, a large statue of the Virgin Mary stands majestically out front, creating a serene atmosphere, especially under the golden glow of sunset—perfect for capturing memorable photos.

All of these attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to snap some photos or simply enjoy the architecture. If you want to dive deeper into Vietnamese culture, consider taking an inside tour.

In the late afternoon to evening, head to the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, which houses a treasure trove of exhibits related to Vietnam’s history, culture, and art. From ancient artifacts to modern history documents, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Vietnam’s development. Next, visit the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum, a beautiful building designed by both French and Vietnamese architects in the early 20th century. It’s a perfect spot for some great photos!

Around 6 PM, take a leisurely walk along the pedestrian promenade, where you can slow down and soak in the street scenes of Ho Chi Minh City, feeling the local rhythm of life. You’ll pass by unique little shops and cafes; if you need a break, feel free to stop and rest. For those adventurous souls craving something different, consider:

– Renting a motorbike for a nighttime food exploration

– Enjoying a night cruise on the Saigon River

Afterward, head to the Coffee Apartment, a uniquely designed building filled with various charming cafes. Pick a spot that catches your eye, settle down, and savor a rich cup of Vietnamese coffee while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. If you’re worried about staying up too late, feel free to choose a different drink!

As night falls, make your way to Bui Vien Street, the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife. When the evening comes alive, bars start buzzing with energy. Find a bar, order a drink, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this vibrant city.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

• COCHIN ZEN HOTEL

📍 46-46Bis Thủ Khoa Huân, Street, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Price: $60-70 USD per night  

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM  

Rating: 4.1/5

Review: Cochin Zen Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the entertainment district of Ho Chi Minh City, offering modern amenities and a rooftop pool. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and Asian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

2. Sheraton Saigon Hotel

📍88 Dong Khoi, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Price: $200-300 USD per night  

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM  

Rating: 4.7/5

Review: The Sheraton Saigon Hotel offers a luxurious 5-star experience with stylish rooms and a prime location near major attractions. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options and a beautiful outdoor pool.

3. Sakura Hostel

📍 39/26 Đ. Nguyễn Trãi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Price: $10-20 USD per night  

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 11:00 PM  

Rating: 3.6/5

Review:  a budget-friendly option ideal for backpackers, offering basic accommodations and a friendly atmosphere. It is conveniently located for exploring the city.

Street Food Must-Trys in Ho Chi Minh City

• Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa

Personal Rating: ★★★★

Address: 26 B. Lé Thị Riêng, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Recommended Dish: Vietnamese Baguette (Bánh Mì)

Average Price: $2.50 USD

Personal Experience: The baguette has a perfectly crispy crust, slathered with a creamy liver pâté, topped with slices of ham and pork roll, and then packed with various fresh veggies you can add yourself (they come separately). It’s bursting with flavor and absolutely delicious!

• Pho Viet Nam

Personal Rating: ★★★★

Address: 14 Phạm Hùng Thái, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh

Recommended Dishes:

• Stone Pot Beef Pho (Phở Bò Đá)
• Signature Vietnamese Beef Pho (Phở Bò Đặc Biệt)

Average Price: $4.00 USD

Personal Experience: This place serves Michelin-certified Pho, and it’s incredibly tasty! You get raw beef that you cook yourself in a steaming stone pot. The portion is generous, the meat is tender, and the broth is rich and aromatic—just heavenly!

Day 2-4: Phan Thiet and Mui Ne—Perfect for Lay-back

Start your wonderful day in Ho Chi Minh City by heading to the coastal market, bustling with activity and featuring a variety of unique goods. Here, you can also savor authentic Vietnamese coffee, soaking in the rich local atmosphere.

In the afternoon, take a 4-hour drive to Mui Ne. Upon arrival, head straight to the Boke Seafood Market, where you’ll find an array of seafood stalls that will make your mouth water. Just a word of caution—when faced with enthusiastic vendors eager to sell you their catch, be sure to compare prices to avoid being overcharged. Choose a stall that catches your eye and indulge in deliciously fresh crab, tender shrimp, and other seafood delights, fully embracing the flavors of this beach town.

After that, check into the Full Moon Resort. While it’s a bit off the beaten path from downtown Mui Ne, I highly recommend it! The resort is owned by a friendly Eastern European, and it has a unique character. Plus, there are plenty of water activities available, like surfing lessons that you can sign up for. Once settled in your comfy room, take some time to relax and recharge for the exciting adventures ahead.

Deep Dive into Mui Ne’s Unique Natural Scenery

Wake up early and head to the white sand dunes, the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunrise. The endless dunes undulate, creating beautiful curves that resemble a miniature desert. On the other side, you’ll find a lake surrounded by lush greenery, where sand and water meet in a magical landscape. You can also try your hand at sandboarding or riding an ATV—feel the thrill as you zoom down nearly 90-degree slopes! Whether you choose to drive yourself or let an instructor take the wheel, it’s an exhilarating experience. If you want to try sandboarding, you can rent a board from local kids.

After our adventure at the white sand dunes, we rented a motorbike nearby and cruised along the roads of Mui Ne. The breeze blew through our hair as we took in the sights and local culture, making our way to Phan Thiet Village. Here, we immersed ourselves in the authentic lifestyle of a Vietnamese fishing village, watching the humble locals go about their fishing activities. We snapped tons of photos showcasing the local fishing life, really capturing the essence of the area, and enjoyed the freshest seafood around.

Next, we visited Fairy Stream, a unique natural wonder in Mui Ne that’s free to explore. The stream flows over yellow stones, and you can take off your shoes and wade in the cool water. The colorful cliffs on either side create a dreamy atmosphere under the sunlight.

Around 4-5 PM, we arrived at Mui Ne Beach, which was bustling with foreigners. The beach was alive with people trying out extreme sports like kitesurfing and jet skiing. We found a spot on a beach chair to soak up the sun and relax or take a refreshing swim in the ocean while waiting for the sunset. The red sand dunes nearby provide a fantastic vantage point for watching the sunset, where you can enjoy the mesmerizing sight of the sun casting warm hues over the red sands, experiencing the unique blend of desert and ocean.

Relaxing at the Resort, Enjoying a Leisurely Vacation and New Year’s Celebration

Spend a blissful day at the Full Moon Resort, taking full advantage of its facilities and services. We booked a room with a small hot tub and a gazebo outside. After indulging in the resort’s delicious breakfast, I lounged in a chair at the gazebo, enjoying the perfect temperature, a hint of sunshine, and the soothing sounds of nature. It was a rare moment of relaxation away from the 9-5 routine. My family chose to stroll along the beach, playing in the waves and enjoying the lovely coastal vibes.

I also pre-booked a massage service at the resort, where the masseuse came to our room for a relaxing session for two. Our afternoons were filled with immersive massages and snacks, helping to relieve the exhaustion from the previous days and providing a full-body relaxation experience.

Coincidentally, it was Chinese New Year’s Eve! We ordered a Vietnamese hot pot from the resort. The fresh and healthy ingredients offered a unique vegetarian twist, and the flavors were quite different from Taiwanese hot pots, but absolutely delicious. Plus, we got to wrap our own spring rolls—a memorable dining experience indeed! Sitting together with my family, we celebrated the arrival of the new year in a foreign land, creating unforgettable memories from our Mui Ne trip.

In Mui Ne and Phan Thiet, there’s a delightful mix of vibrant attractions to explore and leisurely vacation moments to enjoy.

Where to stay in Mui ne

1. Full Moon Village Resort

📍 Suoi Nuoc, Mũi Né, Thành phố Phan Thiết, Bình Thuận, Vietnam

Price: $120-200 USD per night/ 1 villa 

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM  

Rating: 4.2/5

Review : Away from the rush of the city, Full Moon Village offers luxurious villas with free Wi-Fi in Suoi NuOCBay. lt also has a large outdoor hot tub! The tub is really amazing!

2. Hiep Hoa Resort

📍 480 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường Hàm Tiến, Thành phố Phan Thiết, Bình Thuận, Vietnam

Price: $20-30 USD per night  

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM  

Rating: 4.1/5

Review : Nestled in the picturesque coastal city of Phan Thiet,Vietnam, Hiep Hoa Resort offers a serene andpeaceful retreat for travelers seeking a tranguil escape.

3.B Mai Am Guest House

📍 148 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường Hàm Tiến, Thành phố Phan Thiết, Bình Thuận

Price: $15-25 USD per night  

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM  

Rating: 3.8/5

Local delicious in Mui ne

• MR. CRAB boke

Personal Rating：★★

Address：Boke Seafood street

Recommend dishes：Hotpot, Shrimp、大锣

Average Price: $ 19.5 USD

Personal Exp: Try seafood is a must in Mui ne. Now the Boke become seafood street, everything is more expensive. So I finally decide the well-known and early-established shop -MR. CRAB

• Sindbad

Personal Rating：★★★★

Address：233 Nguyen Dinh Chieu | opposite Pogo Club, Phan Thiet 12345, Vietnam

Recommend dishes: 鸡肉卷、牛肉卷、沙拉

Average Price:：$ 6-7 USD

Personal Exp: ranked top 1 on tripadvisor. The main offering is kebab wraps. The shop is quite small, located just 80 meters to the west of Sinh Coffee office. The Turkish kebab wraps are quite substantial, filled with vegetables and salad. It’s said that the grilled meat skewers and fresh shrimp salad are also very tasty.

Day 5-6: Dalat—A Combination of Romance and Nature

In the morning, take the new coffee bus from Mui Ne to Dalat, starting your leisurely journey. Upon arrival, your first stop in the afternoon is the St. Mary’s Monastery. Established in 1931, this monastery was originally a vacation spot for French and other European visitors, later becoming a church dedicated to caring for local orphans and disabled children. With its spire-like design and charming pink and brick-red exterior, it exudes a romantic atmosphere that looks like it came straight out of a cartoon. Every photo you take here will feel refreshingly beautiful. Inside, the decor is exquisite, surrounded by lush trees, flower beds, and fountains; it’s a place where you can truly feel tranquility and beauty.

After leaving the monastery, head to the Dalat Railway Station. Opened in 1938, its vibrant orange-red color, three spires, and stained glass windows reflect an old-world charm. The railway stretches 7 kilometers, connecting Dalat with the nearby town of Trai Mat, and it’s a popular tourist attraction featuring vintage train cars and engines. You can take a scenic train ride, enjoying the views, and once you reach the town, visit the Linh Phuoc Pagoda, made entirely of glass, to experience its unique allure.

Wrap up your visit to the train station and make your way to Xuan Huong Lake. This man-made lake was excavated during the colonial period by the French and is named after the Vietnamese poet Hoang Xuan Huong. Surrounded by trees, the environment is pleasant. Find a lakeside café, order a rich cup of coffee, and unwind while enjoying the lake view.

As night falls, head to V Cafe for a live show. End your first day of adventures with delightful music that wraps up a colorful itinerary.

The next day, start with a visit to the Dalat Cathedral. This Gothic-style structure is the largest church in Dalat and was originally a place for French holidaymakers to pray. The bell tower has a bronze rooster on top, giving it the nickname “Rooster Church.” If you happen to visit during a service, step inside to see the 70+ stained glass windows, which are exquisite and sacred. The viewpoint at the back offers fantastic views of the vibrant little town below.

Dalat—Immerse as a Local

Next, visit the whimsical Crazy House. Designed by the daughter of a former Vietnamese president, it serves as both a hotel and a must-see attraction in Dalat. The building resembles a forest garden and has a style reminiscent of Spanish architect Gaudí. Its exaggerated and quirky shapes make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Here, you can weave through intertwining “dead trees,” rest in the belly of a “giraffe,” or get lost in a “spider web,” enjoying the fun of exploration.

Then, head to the Bao Dai Summer Palace. Built in 1933, it was the summer residence of the last emperor of Vietnam, Bao Dai. The pale yellow two-story villa preserves the interior decor well. The first floor serves as the office and reception area, while the second floor consists of bedrooms and living spaces. Join a guided tour to learn about Bao Dai’s life story, from being a puppet emperor to his personal life, as if you’ve traveled back in time.

In the afternoon, visit Datanla Waterfall. The waterfall cascades down from a height, surrounded by lush vegetation and fresh air. Take a stroll along the pathways, soaking in the rejuvenating vibes of nature and enjoying a moment of peace.

After a full day of exploration, treat yourself to a relaxing massage to unwind and ease your travel fatigue.

At night, head to the Dalat Night Market. It’s bustling with activity, featuring a variety of unique snacks and handcrafted goods. Wander through the crowd, sample local delicacies, and pick up some souvenirs to wrap up your Dalat trip on a high note.

Where to stay in Dalat

1. New Sunland Hotel Dalat

📍 140 Bis Đường Hai Bà Trưng, Phường 6, Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng

Price: $ USD per night  

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM  

Rating: 4.4/5

Review :

2. Zenvalley Dalat

📍 38 Khe Sanh, Phường 10, Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng, Vietnam

Price: $55-75 USD per night  

Check-in: 2:00 PM / Check-out: 12:00 PM  

Rating: 4.5/5

Review :

Best Treats in Dalat

• Coc Ha Thenh Restaurant

Rating: ★★★★★

Address: 53 Truong Cong Dinh Street, Da Lat, Vietnam

Must-Try Dishes: Vietnamese rice paper rolls, Dalat hotpot, claypot chicken curry

Average Cost: $7–8 USD per person

Personal Experience: This cozy, family-run restaurant radiates Vietnamese charm. The owners are incredibly friendly, and it turned out to be the best value (and best-tasting!) Vietnamese food we had during the entire trip. Their rice paper rolls come with cured meat, a thicker rice paper, and a dip with fish sauce that’s just perfect. The claypot chicken curry has a delightful Thai-inspired twist with coconut milk, while the Dalat hotpot is both fun and delicious—ingredients are laid around the hotpot, and you push in what you want to cook.

• Le Chalet Dalat

Rating: ★★★★★

Address: 4 Huynh Thuc Khang | opposite Crazy House, Da Lat 670000, Vietnam

Must-Try Dishes: Rice noodle salad, steamed rice paper rolls, fruit yogurt, cranberry juice, avocado juice

Average Cost: $4–5 USD per person

Personal Experience: Another Instagram-worthy spot and my personal favorite. It’s a Vietnamese-fusion restaurant with a touch of artsy flair. Located directly across from the Crazy House, you might walk right past it if you don’t look closely—it doesn’t scream “restaurant” from the outside!

Day 7 in Ho Chi Minh City: Historical Exploration at Cu Chi Tunnels

An early morning flight whisked us from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City, and we booked a Cu Chi Tunnels day tour from the bustling Pham Ngu Lao Street.

In the afternoon, our small group of 10 hopped on a minibus, and the atmosphere was laid-back and friendly. Our guide was an excellent storyteller, painting vivid pictures of Vietnam’s wartime history, which added depth to the experience.

Arriving at Cu Chi Tunnels, I was absolutely floored by the scale of it all. These 250-kilometer-long tunnels, dug during Vietnam’s resistance against French and American invasions, span three levels, with the deepest going down 10 meters. We explored entrances, ventilation systems, and remnants of war artifacts. Crawling through the narrow, humid tunnels was an unforgettable (albeit slightly uncomfortable) experience. If you’re claustrophobic, you might want to sit this one out—but even without the phobia, it’s a tight squeeze!

Afterward, we saw displays of traditional weapons and traps, which were ingenious and gave a stark glimpse into the realities of wartime survival. It was a long and tiring day, but incredibly enlightening.

To end the day—and our time in Vietnam—we bought some seafood and cooked it back at our Airbnb, soaking in the local vibe one last time. If you have time the next morning, check out Saigon Square and Vincom Center before heading home!

How to Visit Southern Vietnam

By Air

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is Ho Chi Minh City’s main airport, just 7 kilometers from the city center. With frequent flights from Southeast Asia and beyond, this is the quickest and most convenient way to arrive.

By Train

For the train enthusiasts, traveling by rail is an option if you’re coming from neighboring countries or northern Vietnam. Most routes require you to start in Hanoi and then connect to Ho Chi Minh City, but be prepared for a long journey!

By Bus or Cruise

Both options are for the adventurous. Buses are the cheapest mode of transport, but the winding mountain roads can be nerve-wracking. Cruises are slower but perfect for those looking to savor the journey at sea.

Getting Around Southern Vietnam

Vietnam’s terrain means one main railway stretches from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, covering 1,726 kilometers. The train ride takes 30–41 hours, passing through scenic towns like Hue, Hoi An, and Nha Trang.

For shorter trips, intercity buses are the go-to choice, with companies like Sinh Tourist and Phuong Trang offering reliable and comfortable options. Alternatively, flying between cities like Dalat, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City saves time. Open buses, trains, and even ferries are also viable depending on your schedule and budget.

Cost of Traveling Southern Vietnam

Here’s a rough breakdown of expenses based on the suggested 7-day itinerary, tailored for both solo travelers and duos. Spoiler alert: It’s budget-friendly!

Item	Accommodation	Activities	Food	Transport
Solo travel	$280/week	$100/week	$80-105/week	$20-35/week
Travel in two	$280-350/week	$200/week	$100-250/week	$40-70/week

Final Thoughts

Southern Vietnam is a land of diversity and charm, offering everything from historical landmarks and cultural relics to stunning natural landscapes and vibrant local traditions. Here, you’ll experience a seamless blend of history and modernity, as well as the harmony between nature and city life. I hope this guide inspires you to set foot on this captivating land and explore its unique wonders for yourself.

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• Krabi, Thailand:Krabi Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in 5-Day Itinerary
• Shanghai, China: 2-Day Itinerary, Top Things to Do in Shanghai 2024
• Taiwan: Taitung to Hualien, A 5-Day Taiwan East Coast Itinerary
• Chubu Region, Japan:2024 Must-See Dragon Route Itinerary in Central Japan

Each of these destinations offers its own unique blend of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. Ready to start planning?

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