The 9 best destinations in South Vietnam to explore

South Vietnam is a land of vibrant energy and serene beauty, where tropical beaches, fertile deltas and lively cities create a dynamic travel experience. From the historical charm of Ho Chi Minh City to the laid-back vibes of coastal towns, this region offers a captivating look into Vietnam’s southern soul.

This guide highlights the 9 best destinations in South Vietnam, each known for its unique culture, scenery and local life. Ideal for both first-time visitors and returning travelers, these spots reveal the essence of the region.

Start planning your trip to the top destinations in South Vietnam with Hanoi Voyages. Let us tailor a journey that brings the South to life.

Best time to visit South Vietnam 

Southern Vietnam offers distinct charms throughout the year, making it a rewarding destination in any season.

• For those dreaming of sunny adventures through the Mekong Delta or relaxing days on the beaches of Phu Quoc, the dry season - from November to April - is the perfect time to go. 

• On the other hand, the rainy season, from May to October, brings lush landscapes and a quieter pace, ideal for travelers seeking a more tranquil atmosphere.

To make the most of your journey, timing and planning are key. If you're looking for inspiration, explore our curated list of top destinations in South Vietnam to help shape an unforgettable trip.

You can also read: Best time to visit Vietnam for first-time travelers

Top 9 must-visit destinations in South Vietnam

South Vietnam captivates visitors with its diverse blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to bustling cities, tranquil rivers, or coastal escapes, the region has plenty to offer. Here are 9 must-see places to visit South Vietnam that showcase the very best of the southern charm.

Ho Chi Minh City: Balance between memory and modernity

Ho Chi Minh City, the economic heart of Vietnam, is a dynamic blend of old and new. Its tropical climate, lively streets and deep cultural roots make it an essential stop for anyone planning to visit South Vietnam. Perfect for a South Vietnam itinerary, the city offers a balance of historical landmarks and modern energy.

Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, icons of French colonial architecture

• Tour the Reunification Palace, a key site marking the end of the Vietnam War

• Explore the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi tunnel for a powerful look into Vietnam’s modern history

• Wander through Ben Thanh Market to shop for local goods and soak up local life

• Visit the Thien Hau Pagoda in vibrant Chinatown (Cholon)

• Take a nature break in the Can Gio Mangrove, a UNESCO-listed biosphere

• Enjoy street food and nightlife on a Vespa food tour

• Experience the city’s cosmopolitan side in its lively modern districts

You can read more: Top 7 destinations to explore in Ho Chi Minh City

Can Tho - Cai Rang Floating Market

Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta, is a must-see when exploring destinations in South Vietnam. Located on the Hau River, it offers a deep dive into rural life, vibrant markets and peaceful waterways - making it one of the most authentic places to visit South Vietnam.

Top activities in Can Tho:

• Visit Cai Rang Floating Market, the region’s most iconic river market

• Take a boat trip through canals and lush arroyos

• Cycle through rice fields and traditional villages

• Explore Cai Khe and Tan An land markets for fresh produce and local flavors

• Visit the historic Binh Thuy Ancient House, featured in The Lover

• Try local dishes like banh xeo and roasted pork at the night market

• Discover temples and pagodas of Vietnamese, Khmer and Caodaist influence

You can read more: Visit Can Tho: Top 7 best things to do and see

Con Dao – Wild beaches and history

Just an hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Con Dao is a peaceful escape and one of the most untouched destinations in South Vietnam. This archipelago of 16 islands, with Con Son as the main hub, offers a mix of natural beauty and historical depth - making it one of the most serene places to visit South Vietnam.

Top activities in Con Dao:

• Snorkel or dive to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life

• Hike through Con Dao National Park to discover its lush wildlife

• Witness sea turtles nesting on Bay Canh Island (April–October)

• Visit Con Son Prison for a powerful look into the island’s wartime history

• Relax on pristine beaches like Bai Nhat, ideal for peace and swimming

Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, Con Dao brings a slower, more reflective pace to any South Vietnam itinerary.

Dong Thap - Sa Dec and Tram Chim

Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Dong Thap offers a peaceful escape into the rhythms of rural life. With rice paddies, quiet canals and colorful flower gardens, it’s one of the most tranquil destinations in South Vietnam. For travelers seeking nature and authenticity, Dong Thap is a must-see stop among the many enriching places to visit South Vietnam.

Top activities in Dong Thap:

• Wander through Sa Dec’s flower gardens, known for vibrant peonies and orchids

• Visit Tram Chim National Park, a haven for birdwatching and wetland wildlife

• Experience the lively Sa Dec floating market on the Mekong’s waterways

• Cruise the Tien River to enjoy riverside scenery and traditional villages

• Explore local craft villages to see bamboo and silk products being made

• Try regional dishes like grilled catfish and tropical fruits from local orchards

An Giang – Sam Mountain and Cham Culture

An Giang, located on the Cambodian border, stands out among destinations in South Vietnam for its cultural richness and unique landscapes. Unlike the flat terrain typical of the Mekong Delta, An Giang features scenic hills and a blend of Vietnamese, Khmer and Cham heritage. It's one of the most fascinating places to visit South Vietnam, especially for travelers interested in spiritual sites and ethnic diversity.

Top activities in An Giang:

• Visit Cham villages and explore traditional mosques

• Discover floating fish farms raising pangasius (Asian catfish)

• Take a boat ride to see daily life on floating houses

• Hike up Mount Sam, a spiritual site with temples of multiple cultural influences

• Explore Tra Su flooded forest by sampan, rich in biodiversity and peaceful nature

Tay Ninh – Mount Ba Den and Cao Dai Temple

Known as the birthplace of Caodaism, Tay Ninh combines spiritual richness with peaceful countryside, offering a refreshing contrast to more touristy places to visit South Vietnam. It's ideal for travelers seeking meaningful cultural encounters and light adventure.

Top activities in Tay Ninh:

• Visit the Cao Dai Temple and witness a colorful religious ceremony

• Ascend Mount Ba Den by hiking or cable car for panoramic views

• Walk the nature trails around Ba Den Mountain for scenic landscapes

• Try local dishes like banh trang and mi suon nuong at traditional markets

• Explore the symbolic art and frescoes inside the Cao Dai Temple

• Visit traditional craft villages and meet local artisans

• Observe daily rural life in Tay Ninh’s peaceful countryside

• Join a Caodaist festival if your visit aligns with major ceremonies

Ben Tre – Rivers and Crafts

In the heart of the Mekong Delta, Ben Tre is one of the most peaceful and authentic destinations in South Vietnam. Known for its lush coconut groves, winding canals and traditional crafts, this province offers a slower pace of life

Top activities in Ben Tre:

• Cruise along coconut-lined canals by sampan or canoe

• Visit small workshops producing coconut-based goods like candy and oil

• Explore tropical orchards and enjoy fresh fruits during a cycling tour

• Join a cooking class at a local homestay for a hands-on cultural experience

• Visit traditional markets or floating markets to taste regional dishes

• Discover village crafts like basket weaving and coconut shell carving

• Enjoy birdwatching and peaceful countryside walks

Phu Quoc island - Relax and unwind

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, lies in the Gulf of Thailand and is one of the most popular destinations in South Vietnam. As one of the top places to visit South Vietnam, Phu Quoc also offers a mix of cultural sites, natural beauty and modern resorts - making it ideal for beach lovers and explorers alike.

Top activities in Phu Quoc:

• Relax on stunning beaches like Sao Beach and Long Beach

• Snorkel or dive around the An Thoi archipelago to explore coral reefs

• Visit Phu Quoc Prison to learn about the island’s wartime history

• Take a cable car ride to Hon Thom Island for panoramic ocean views

• Explore the Phu Quoc National Park with its hiking trails and rich biodiversity

• Discover local life at Duong Dong Night Market and try fresh seafood

• Tour pepper farms and fish sauce factories, two of the island’s specialties

You can also read: Top 9 most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc

Vung Tau – Sun, sea and Southern charm

Known for its long beaches, fresh seafood and colonial heritage, Vung Tau offers a relaxing seaside escape while still offering cultural and spiritual experiences. Among the many places to visit South Vietnam, this beach town is perfect for a short retreat or a stop on a broader southern itinerary.

Top activities in Vung Tau:

• Relax on popular beaches like Bai Sau (Back Beach) and Bai Truoc (Front Beach)

• Hike up to the Christ the King statue for panoramic sea views

• Visit the White Palace (Bach Dinh), a colonial-era residence with ocean vistas

• Enjoy a seafood feast at one of the coastal markets or local restaurants

• Visit the Vung Tau Lighthouse for a scenic walk and views of the coastline

Read more details: Best beaches in Southern Vietnam: Top 5 beaches must-visit

Suggested South Vietnam itinerary for your trip

Discover the essence of Southern Vietnam on a 10-day adventure that brings together culture, nature and relaxation. From the vibrant energy and colonial charm of Ho Chi Minh City, to the lush waterways and slow rhythm of life in the Mekong Delta and finally to the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc Island, this journey offers a rich blend of discovery and downtime. 

Day 1: Arrival at Ho Chi Minh Day 2: Ho Chi Minh - City tour Day 3: Ho Chi Minh - Cao Dai Temple - Cu Chi Tunnels Day 4: Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta Day 5: Mekong Delta - Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City – FLIGHT – PHU QUOC – Beach Holiday Day 7 - 9: Relax on the beaches Day 10: Phu Quoc – FLIGHT – HCM City – Departure

Check out more details: Southern Vietnam family tour 10 days

To fully experience the beauty of Vietnam and the southern region, we’ve carefully crafted a selection of tours for you. Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed to match your interests and travel pace, ensuring a journey that’s both rich and memorable.

	Vietnam Luxury tour from Northern to Southern in 15 days Vietnam Luxury tour from Northern to Southern in 15 days: An elegant journey through Vietnam’s top destinations, with premium stays and curated cultural experiences.
	Southern Vietnam luxury tour in 10 days Southern Vietnam luxury tour in 10 days: Discover the charm of the south with upscale stays, cultural highlights and serene landscapes from Saigon to the Mekong.
	Splendors of Vietnam from North to South tour 15 days Splendors of Vietnam from North to South tour 15 days: Explore Vietnam’s iconic sites, diverse cultures and scenic landscapes from Hanoi to the Mekong Delta.

In addition to our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

Where to stay in South Vietnam: Best accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your South Vietnam itinerary. From bustling urban centers to peaceful riverside towns and island getaways, South Vietnam offers diverse lodging options. Let’s explore!

Ho Chi Minh Silverland May Hotel A stylish 4-star stay in central Ho Chi Minh City, perfect for relaxing after a day explore South Vietnam.	Phu Quoc Regent Phu Quoc A boutique beachfront retreat, offering intimate luxury and a peaceful escape on Phu Quoc Island.	Ben Tre Mekong Home A charming riverside homestay in Ben Tre, offering authentic local experiences and a tranquil stay

Can Tho Azerai Can Tho A luxurious riverside resort set on a private islet, offering elegant comfort and complete serenity in the heart of the Mekong Delta.	Con Dao Six Senses Con Dao A luxurious eco-luxury resort nestled among pristine beaches and lush forests, offering wellness experiences and serene.	Ho Chi Minh Caravelle Saigon An iconic upscale hotel in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, blending timeless elegance with modern sophistication and top-tier service.

From vibrant cities to peaceful riverscapes and cultural heartlands, these 9 destinations in South Vietnam offer a rich and varied travel experience for every kind of explorer. Whether you're drawn to history, nature, or local life, the South has something unforgettable to offer.

Start planning your journey to the top destinations in South Vietnam with Hanoi Voyages - your trusted companion for tailor-made travel experiences.

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