The main attractions of Vietnam. Vietnam - attractions and excursions. Cat Tien National Park
Nha Trang is the most popular Vietnamese resort, a center of beach recreation and nightlife, a tropical paradise with stunning scenery and a variety of cultural and historical attractions.
Nha Trang is home to the famous Long Son Pagoda, or White Buddha. This iconic place always attracts the attention of travelers. From almost anywhere in the city you can see a huge statue on the hill near the pagoda - the White Buddha sitting on a lotus flower. In the main building of the complex there is a statue of Buddha made of bronze, and at the height of 44 steps on the way to the hill there is a statue of a sleeping Buddha.
Another iconic landmark of Vietnam in Nha Trang is the Po Nagar towers, created in the 7th-12th centuries for ceremonies in honor of the mother goddess Po Nagar.
Sights of Phan Thiet
Holidays in Phan Thiet, another popular resort in Vietnam, can also be combined with sightseeing tours, but most of them will be outside.
In search of the best scenery, tourists go from Phan Thiet to the fishing village of Mui Ne, where, in addition to beautiful photographs of Vietnam, you can make many interesting observations and try fresh and varied seafood. The largest one in the country was built in the vicinity of Mui Ne.
Just a few minutes' drive from the city is one of the ancient religious monuments of the Cham people - the ruins and towers of the Poskhanu temple complex, at the foot of which religious festivals are held in the first lunar month. Historical attractions in the region include
Vietnam is a country with a unique history and numerous attractions, so everyone will find something to their liking here. If you are a dreamer and are interested in religion, you can take excursions to the Temple of Confucius or the Lake of the Returned Sword.
If you want to take a break from everyday work on the beach, then you should definitely visit Ha Long Bay; for adventure seekers, the Cu Chi underground village is an ideal option. And this is only a small part of the places that you can visit with organized excursions or on your own.
Excursions
Exciting excursions for vacationers and travelers in 350 cities around the world: Tripster.ru is a service of unusual excursions from local residents and guides who can tell you in an interesting and exciting way about the most interesting things in their cities.
Tours and packages
Monkey Island
Monkey Island is an area densely populated by different species of monkeys growing in natural conditions. According to estimates today, there are about 1,500 thousand monkeys on the island, some of them take part in a show dedicated to the arrival of tourists on the island.
Note! The island has several cafeterias, shops and beaches, so you can not only study the monkeys, but also sunbathe.
Vinpearl Amusement Park
Vinpearl Amusement Park is a huge tourist complex, containing hotels, restaurants, spa centers, shopping arcades, as well as all kinds of attractions.
Important! Here is the only water park in the country with fresh water.
The park territory is divided into several zones: water park, shopping area, amusement park, amphitheater and indoor play area.
Winpperl is also famous for the cable car leading to the island of entertainment.
Cable car to Hon Che Island
The presented cable car is the longest in all of Vietnam. The funicular is supported by 9 columns located along a length of 3300 meters; at night they are illuminated.
The construction of the road was carried out by European engineers, so it can survive the effects of strong winds, tsunamis and earthquakes.
Note! One funicular can accommodate up to 8 people.
Thap Ba Hot Springs
Thap Ba is the oldest mud bath in Nha Trang, which has been open to visitors for 15 years.
The area of the springs is quite small, but contains a large number of green spaces. There is a large lake in which different types of fish are bred.
There are several mud baths, the mud into which comes from a pipe; 4-5 people can sit in one bath. There are several swimming pools, but before visiting them you should definitely go to the shower located on the territory of the springs.
Cham Towers Po Nagar (Cham Towers)
According to historical research, the construction of the towers fell on the 7th-12th centuries. Initially, the building consisted of 8 towers, but only half of them have survived to this day.
The construction of the towers was carried out in honor of the goddess Yang Ino Po Nagar, who, according to numerous legends, was the patroness of Nha Trang. On the territory of the towers you can also see a museum dedicated to the ancient Cham sages and the peculiarities of their life.
Long Son Pagoda (White Buddha)
The construction of the pagoda took place in 1886 thanks to the tutelage of monk Ngo Chi.
Today, the pagoda is the most significant landmark of Khanh Hoa province. In 1900, the building was destroyed due to a hurricane, but the pagoda was quickly restored. Since 1936, the building has been considered the main Buddhist temple of the province.
The main building of the pagoda houses bronze statue of Buddha reaching a height of 1.6 meters. Located behind the temple huge white buddha seated on a lotus flower.
Interesting! The construction of the statue took place in 1963, and it reaches a height of 14 meters.
Marble Mountains in Da Nang
The Marble Mountains consist of five hills that are connected to each other by a single chain.
Each mountain is named after a specific element:
- water – Tui;
- tree – Mok;
- metal – Kim;
- earth – Tho;
- fire - Hoa.
Previously, rocks were mined in the mountains, from which lamps, vases and other household utensils were made. There are several colorful caves located inside the mountains.
Lotus Lake (Mui Ne)
A lake located near the resorts and on which a huge number of lotuses grow during the season.
Note! If you wish, you can rent a boat and swim in the pond.
White and red dunes
White and red dunes are a landmark of Vietnam that is very popular among tourists.
The relief of the dunes changes depending on the direction of the wind, and unusual patterns appear on the sand, which captivate tourists. Near the dunes is Lotus Lake.
Khe Ga Lighthouse
Located on the rocky island of the same name. Recognized as one of the highest in the entire country and the most beautiful in all of South Vietnam. The lighthouse was built in 1897, but it began working only in 1900.
Interesting! The lighthouse is installed on a 25-meter cliff and reaches a height of 41 meters.
Hang Nga Guest House (Crazy House)
The famous building is located in the mountain. The construction of the building took place in 1900; the architect was the Vietnamese Dang Viet Nga. The guest house is created in a “fairytale” style. The appearance resembles a huge tree containing decorative elements in the form of animals, huge cobwebs, caves and mushrooms.
Interesting! The guest house is recognized as one of the most unusual buildings in the world.
Vietnam is a promising and constantly developing tourist destination in Southeast Asia. The country attracts millions of travelers with its exotic nature, relatively cheap tours, high-quality beach holidays and an acceptable level of infrastructure. Tourism in Vietnam began to actively develop around the late 1990s. For almost the entire first decade of the 2000s, the bulk of travelers were Chinese, and only a small percentage came from guests from Europe, America, and other continents.
The country's territory stretches along the Pacific coast for about 2000 km. It is conventionally divided into Northern, Central and Southern Vietnam. Each of these parts has seaside resorts with beautiful beaches, quality hotels and interesting attractions.
People go to Vietnam mainly for a beach holiday. In any part of the country you can find hotels to suit every taste - from small, economical 2* and 3* to luxurious 5* on the first coastline. Almost every one has a cozy garden with bright unusual flowers and plants, and a small swimming pool. For those who want to get to know Vietnam better, local travel agencies organize exciting excursions. Gourmets will not remain indifferent to traditional cuisine. Pho soup, nem pancakes, spring rolls, lau soup are basic dishes for the locals. Seafood is a special item. In Vietnam they are excellent and sold at reasonable prices.
The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.
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What to see in Vietnam?
The most interesting and beautiful places, photographs and brief descriptions.
This is a modern metropolis with developed industry. Here you can feel the pulse of business Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City is also called the “city of mopeds”. In the mornings, residents do gymnastics in parks, and in the evenings they walk in the square in front of Notre Dame de Saigon, the main Catholic cathedral in the south of the country. The city is named after Ho Chi Minh, the founder of the Communist Party and the first president of a united Vietnam.
This bay is one of the most recognizable symbols of Vietnam. Almost every tourist brings a postcard with a picture of a ship with flying scarlet or brown sails against the backdrop of views of the bay. Halong is a bay with three thousand islands, grottoes, caves, cliffs, located a couple of hundred kilometers from the capital. The bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique beauty.
This complex was created to show people all the horrors of the war with the United States of 1965-1973. The museum contains photographs of Vietnamese people maimed by American chemical weapons (under the special name “Agent Orange”), instruments of torture, stories of abuse of the local population, and mass exterminations.
An underground labyrinth of approximately 250 km. These tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City served as a refuge and base for Vietnamese guerrillas. From here they made successful attacks against the Americans. Visitors are presented with cunning traps, weapons and household items of the soldiers who once lived here.
It is of great historical interest, since the imperial family once lived here, and mere mortals could not get here. Tu Cam Thanh is located in Hue and consists of a complex of palace buildings, temples and gardens, many of which are hundreds of years old.
The surviving remains of Hindu temples of the Thiapma (Champa) Empire that once existed on the territory of Vietnam. Before the arrival of the Viets, the lands were inhabited by Chams, who approximately moved here from the island of Borneo. From the 4th century Michonne was the capital of the Cham state.
A large cultural complex where excavations are still ongoing. It began to be built during the Vietnamese Ly dynasty in the 11th century. Over the course of its long existence, the territory of the citadel expanded, was destroyed, rebuilt again, and only in the 20th century. managed to begin full-scale archaeological work to extract valuable ancient exhibits.
The tomb of the national hero and socialist leader Uncle “Ho”, as he is called locally. This is one of the main modern attractions of Hanoi. In addition to the body of Ho Chi Minh itself, tourists are invited to look at the chambers where the leader of the nation lived and worked, as well as stroll through the magnificent park around the mausoleum.
A seven-tiered structure symbolizing the moment of Buddha's enlightenment. It was created in 1601. Thien Mu is the tallest pagoda in Vietnam. Not far from the tower in the 60s. In the twentieth century, the Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc, who, together with his brothers, fought against the oppression of the Catholic ruler, committed ritual self-immolation.
Another architectural monument from the period of Tyampa’s rule. This is a group of temples located in the city of Nha Trang. Some of them are still in effect today, despite the fact that they are more than a thousand years old. An extensive panorama of Nha Trang opens from the observation deck on the territory of the temple complex.
A temple with a large statue of a deity towering over the whole of Nha Trang. It can be observed from almost anywhere in the city; it seems to be floating in the clouds. There is a Buddhist monastery on the territory of the pagoda, and services are constantly held. To climb to the seated Buddha statue (the highest point of the pagoda), you need to walk 150 steps.
Another unusual temple from the reign of Ly Thanh Tong in Hanoi. It was built in 1049 by a grateful emperor in honor of the goddess Quan Am, who in a dream predicted the birth of a son. Nowadays, only a small pagoda with a statue of Quan Am, actually standing on one pillar, has survived from the entire building.
This is a complex in Hue, including a pavilion, a temple, a crypt, a court of honor and a pond with lotuses. All these structures were supposed to emphasize the greatness of the ruler and perpetuate his name. It was You Duc who came up with the tradition of building tombs in this way. After him, many tombs of later rulers appeared in the surrounding area.
Another name for the temple is Notre Dame de Saigon. This is a piece of Europe near the equator and the main Catholic church of Ho Chi Minh City, built in 1880. During construction, Notre Dame de Paris was taken as a model. In the temple you can attend a classical mass, celebrated by a Vietnamese priest in broken Latin, or simply admire the beautiful stained glass windows.
Another Catholic church built with the help of the French. It can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. This temple took many years to build and was completed by 1939. The structure turned out to be majestic and massive, designed to inspire appropriate awe of divine power. Now the residence of the bishop is located there, and Mass is regularly celebrated.
The cathedral is another striking architectural monument, reminiscent of French rule throughout Indochina. European canons are easily discernible in the Gothic outlines of the temple, and the interior decoration creates an atmosphere of reverence.
One of the most striking attractions of the capital of Vietnam. Emperor Ly Thanh Tong ordered the construction of this temple in honor of Confucius in 1070. A few years later, a university for the offspring of high-ranking officials of the state arose on its basis. Here the tourist will see thousand-year-old historical monuments: statues, a cult hall, the Gue Wan pavilion.
Better known as the famous mud bath in Central Vietnam. Here they take baths from healing mud, swim in pools filled with hot mineral water, and do health treatments. You can also buy high-quality inexpensive cosmetics here. There are package offers for visitors, which include a set of spa treatments, fruit snacks and various additional options.
It is considered the longest road of this type over the sea. It leads to the island where the Winpearl amusement park, popular among tourists, is located. The supporting structures are made in the form of French “Eiffel towers”, which are beautifully illuminated at night.
It is located 20 kilometers from Nha Trang and is a popular tourist attraction. These funny and unceremonious animals live everywhere, since at one time they uncontrollably multiplied and populated a small territory. On the island you can not only see monkeys, but also swim, sunbathe, and stroll through quiet parks and gardens.
A bizarre joint creation of man and nature. Inside the natural rocks of unusual coloring there are huge halls with temples and altars. Outside, houses of worship and pagodas are scattered among the greenery. The Marble Mountains are not just a tourist attraction, but a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
In the center of old Hanoi is located perhaps one of the most interesting attractions of the city - the Lake of the Returned Sword. Legend has it that a giant turtle inhabitant of the lake during the wars with China gave a sword to the hero Le Liu, who defeated the enemy with its help. Then the turtle took the sword back, hence the name.
A picturesque series of small freshwater lakes collectively called Lotus Lake is located in the vicinity of the resort of Mui Ne. They are notable for the fact that they are almost completely overgrown with lotus. It is especially beautiful on the lakes in the summer during the flowering period - during a walk, the visitor seems to plunge into the “kingdom of the lotus”.
In the vicinity of Phan Thiet and Mui Ne there are a lot of colorful sand dunes. The most impressive are the white and red dunes - huge formations of sand, interspersed with rare pine groves and lakes. When tourists get here, they feel like they are in an endless desert. Quad biking is the most popular activity for visitors to the dunes.
The Ke Ga Lighthouse is located about 50 kilometers from the tourist area of Phan Thiet. It was built during French rule in 1899. Later it was recognized as one of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia. The lighthouse stands on a 25-meter cliff, the structure itself is 41 meters in height. The light from the generator is noticeable already 40 km from the coast.
Dalat is home to one of the most unusual attractions in the region - the Hang Nga madhouse or crazy house. It was designed by the daughter of Vietnamese politician Dang Viet Nga, who was an avid Gaudí fan. Now it is a hotel in the shape of a giant tree with branches-passages, rooms “cut out” in the trunk, hanging gardens and statues of fairy-tale animals.
According to reviews of local guides, this park is an upscale resort “without Asian exoticism.” In addition to attractions, a water park, dolphin and seal shows, an aquarium, there is a 5* hotel, excellent white sand beaches, and bright evening shows are constantly organized.
It is located near the city of Kobang and is considered the most beautiful in all of Southeast Asia. Around Detian there are rice fields, mangrove and palm groves and plantings of cotton trees. The landscape is complemented by pointed rock peaks, which against the blue sky are reminiscent of the scenery from Avatar.
A relatively new tourist destination, Vietnam, has already won the hearts of travelers with its unique culture, amazing natural landscapes, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. People come here not only to see the sights of Vietnam with their own eyes. A, but also to rest your soul and get real relaxation. So what is the first thing to see in Vietnam? What should you include on your list of must-see places?
What to see first in Vietnam
Staying in such an exotic country requires special attention to the organization of the excursion program. may offer dubious travel options, but with our list of the most famous tourist sites, you will be able to avoid dealing with scammers and return after your holiday completely satisfied.
1. Mekong Delta (South Vietnam)
Exotic Vietnamese lifeThe southern part of the country, little explored by tourists, is distinguished by amazing nature. There are many interesting places here that are worth seeing with your own eyes. Excursions in Ho Chi Minh City in this region they are low cost and are perfect for novice travelers. The Mekong Delta, located in the southern part of the country, is a truly exotic place. It attracts tourists like a magnet. To explore the attractions of Vietnam located here, it will take approximately 1-3 days.
Ho Chi Minh City is located in the eastern part of the delta, so it is not surprising that both tourists and locals love this place. Here, in this area, is the island of Phu Quoc. A trip along the river will provide the most positive impressions for a long time. After that, you can rent a junk and sail between the islands, of which there are many. Each of them is interesting in itself. For example, you can visit a factory that produces coconut candies. At the beginning of your trip around the delta, you can take a leisurely stroll along the shores, where the floating houses of the local residents are located.
2. Mu An hot springs (central part of Vietnam, Hue)
Wellness holiday at the hot springs of My An Hue Riverside Resort
You can explore the sights of Vietnam to benefit your own health. Especially if you take a trip to the Mu An hot springs. They are located in Hue, which is in the central part of the country.
The thermal springs are conveniently located and close to common tourist routes. To visit them, you need to drive only 7 km from the city. The temperature in the springs is approximately 52 degrees. Directly in the pool itself – no more than 42 degrees. These springs are very popular among local residents. Water is useful for skin diseases and damaged skin. This place is also healing for people suffering from digestive disorders, as well as for allergy sufferers. The air contains negatively charged ions. The smell of the water is not very pleasant (the aroma of hydrogen sulfide), but you can drink it. It is believed to help with constipation and flatulence. The resort has a spa complex and a restaurant, as well as a cozy hotel.
3. Guest House Hang Nga, or Crazy House (Dalat Resort)
One of the strangest hotels in the world
Traveling to this exotic country should be done in comfort. When planning a trip and deciding what to visit in Vietnam, you need to decide on your place of residence. If you want to literally find yourself in a fairy tale, then the Hang Nga guest house is what you need. This non-standard hotel resembles a tree, “overgrown” with architectural forms. The idea of creating such an unusual hotel belongs to the architect Dang Viet Nga. Therefore, you should definitely pay attention to this fantastic structure.
The appearance of the hotel looks like a surreal object. The overall impression is especially complemented by unusual opening windows made in different shapes. The hotel itself is located in the hollow of a huge tree, and its buildings are made in the form of strange animals, more like a giraffe and a spider. Despite the strange name “Madhouse”, it is an object that attracts tourists. This unusual hotel is located in the resort town of Dalat. Its rooms are comfortable and convenient. By staying here, you can truly take a trip into a fairy tale.
4. Halong Bay (Hanoi)
The fabulous beauty of Ha Long Bay
The country is famous for its unique landscapes, original cuisine and quite interesting history. The sights of Vietnam will amaze even the most experienced travelers. One example is Ha Long Bay.
According to an ancient legend, a large dragon once lived in the place where the bay is now located. One day, leaving traces of its powerful paws and tail on the ground, the monster went into the sea. The hollows filled with water over time. All that remained on the surface was the land where the dragon had not set foot. This is what has survived to this day. Now these islands are the main decoration of the bay.
The bay occupies about 1,500 km 2. On its territory there are countless caves, rocks and cliffs. Is it worth talking about the islands, of which, according to scientists, there are more than 3,000?
Three objects in the bay are considered the most popular among tourists:
- An acoustic grotto where you can enjoy unusual sounds in windy weather.
- A grotto of stone pillars, inside of which there is a source of fresh water.
- Quang Hanh Grotto, which is about 1,300 m long.
Ha Long Bay is a place where you can enjoy beautiful views and get closer to the secrets and mysteries of the past.
5. Tomb of Khai Dinh (Mount Chau Chu, Hue)
Sculptural composition in the Court of Honor of the Imperial Tomb
The attractions of Vietnam introduce tourists not only to nature, but also to local history. Confirmation of this is the tomb of Khai Dinh. It cannot boast of its size, unlike other similar structures. However, there is something to see here - amazing architecture and very unusual design.
During the construction of the tomb, everything was thought out to the smallest detail. The process of its construction took 11 years. The emperor buried here devoted his entire life to the struggle for freedom and independence of the state, for its development.
Before the visitor gets inside the structure, he passes 36 steps and the Court of Honor, in which there are sculptures of the emperor's courtiers. But this is not its peculiarity. More attention is drawn to the glass and porcelain mosaics, as well as the praise pavilion.
The tomb itself is not ignored either. It contains a gilded stock, around which are beautiful engravings and lanterns. You can visit the tomb from early morning until 5 pm.
The city of Hue, near which the attraction is located, was once the capital of Vietnam (during the reign of the Nguyen dynasty).
Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Vietnam!
6. Christ the Giant (Vung Tau)
Christ the Giant is the tallest monument in Vietnam
The attractions of Vietnam cover not only nature and history, but also religion. A great example is the statue of Jesus Christ located in Vung Tau. In fact, this is an analogue of the monument from Rio de Janeiro.
This attraction is located just 100 m from the coast on a low mountain. She appeared in 1974. But the entrance to tourists was opened only 20 years later. The construction of the statue was sponsored by the Catholic community in Vietnam.
The hands of Christ spread out to the sides by 18 m, the height of the monument reaches 32 m. Inside there are 133 steps, climbing which you can get to the observation deck. From there you have views of the city and the sea. To reach the statue, you need to climb 500 meters (811 steps).
The Christian community to which the landmark owes its existence was founded by the Portuguese back in the 16th century. However, it was not widely used at that time. Everything changed a century later with the appearance of the Jesuits in these parts. Thanks to their activities, the community now numbers about 8,000,000 people. They are the main guardians and visitors of the unique statue and the observation deck located on it.
7. Bao Dai Villas (Nha Trang)
Bao Dai's Villas - An Example of French Colonial Architecture Lyn Gateley
Many tourists, coming here for the first time, ask a completely appropriate question: what to see in Vietnam? The answer is simple - cultural and architectural monuments, temple complexes, beautiful beaches, and natural parks can amaze even the most fastidious tourists. They hide secrets from the past and the centuries-old history of the state. One example is the Bao Dai villas.
The villas are a complex of five buildings that are surrounded by an incredibly beautiful park. They were built back in the 20s of the last century under the leadership of the French architect A. Creme. The author of the park was a local gardener. His name, unfortunately, has not been preserved.
The name of this place comes from the name of Emperor Bao Dai, who used it as his summer residence. The villas remained in this status for many more years. This contributed to the fact that both the buildings themselves and the park remained in good condition.
The complex is currently open to tourists. Everyone can visit the museum, restaurant, park and beach. In addition, vacationers have the opportunity to stay in a comfortable hotel.
Luxury and sophistication still reign in the villas of Bao Dai. Visitors can look at household items, clothing and personal belongings of the emperor's family. They can try on some outfits and sit on the throne.
8. Cham temple towers (Nha Trang, Ku Lao Mountain)
Temple complex for Hindus and Buddhists
From Ku Lao Mountain you can see the whole of Nha Trang. Famous landmarks of Vietnam - the Cham temple towers of Po Nagar - proudly rise there. Outwardly, they look like quite modern buildings, but in fact their history began more than 1000 years ago.
The Cham Towers are part of a complex that was built during the Champa Kingdom (hence the name). According to local residents, this area is sacred. Therefore, rituals and ceremonies are held here.
Visitors will be able to see only four of the dozen towers; the rest simply have not survived. They are different both in style and in size. Each Cham tower is used to serve a different deity.
The northern tower is considered the most important, and it is also the tallest. The height of the structure is almost 30 m. It was intended to worship the queen mother named Po-Nagar. At the entrance to the tower you can see a sculpture of Shiva on a bull. Inside there is a twenty-meter statue of the goddess Po-Nagar herself.
Those planning to visit this complex should take care of their clothing in advance. You can only go there barefoot, without a headdress, with your shoulders and knees covered. If necessary, you can take robes near the entrance.
9. Tien Mu Pagoda (Hue)
The seven-tiered pagoda is a beautiful ancient structureThien Mu Pagoda was founded back in 1601. Her name means "heavenly fairy". It is connected with an ancient legend. One day an elderly woman appeared on the mountain. She told people that the mountain was sacred, and after that she rose into the sky. The foundation of the pagoda was laid at the place she indicated.
Since then, the building has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. During the reign of one of the emperors, it acquired seven tiers (total height 20 m). The pagoda has survived in this form to this day. The seven tiers symbolize the incarnations of Buddha.
Around Tien Mu there is a beautiful garden, which has sculptures, pavilions, a pond with orchids and a sea of other flowers. And that's not all there is to see. Guides in Hue They will definitely show you a huge bell, which weighs up to three tons. They will also pay attention to the collection of bronze products that are exhibited in one of the pavilions.
All visitors to the pagoda have the opportunity to look down on the Fragrant River. They can also feel the atmosphere that has reigned in the holy place for several centuries.
10. Monkey Island (Nha Trang)
Monkey Island Aboriginal
The attractions of Vietnam can be listed for a long time. These are architectural, religious, and cultural monuments. This also includes the incredible beauty of nature. Each of the significant places has its own special history. One example is Monkey Island, located about 20 km from Nha Trang. This attraction gets its name from the large number of monkeys that live there. According to scientists, there are about 2,000 of them on the island.
In the past there was a nursery on the island. Animals were bred there for further shipment to different countries of the world. Afterwards, the nursery was closed, and hundreds of monkeys became full owners of the entire island. Almost all of them are friendly towards tourists. Monkeys happily take treats from people's hands, allowing them to take a photo with them as a souvenir. But sometimes they can show aggression, snatching cameras, food, glasses, etc. from their hands.
In addition to interacting with animals, tourists have many more options for what to see in Vietnam . They can enjoy relaxing on local beaches, shopping, and try Vietnamese dishes in restaurants. Monkey Island has everything you need for a good holiday for both adults and children.
Sights of Vietnam: what else to visit while in Vietnam
13. Museum of War Victims (Ho Chi Minh City)
A shocking museum exhibit
What to see in Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City? You can start your acquaintance with local attractions from the Museum of War Victims. It is located in the very center of the city, and you can walk to it from Pham Gu Lao Street. This is one of the most visited places by tourists. The entrance ticket costs about 15 thousand dong, which is about 24 in rubles.
The sight that greets the visitor leaves one in a state of shock, but such sights of Vietnam need to be visited. The museum's exposition includes cages where prisoners were kept, instruments of torture, and a guillotine. In the courtyard there are tanks, planes and other military equipment from the war. You can touch and look inside military equipment, but climbing on it is not allowed by the rules. The halls display photographs depicting the victims of those events. The real weapons that are part of the exhibition are amazing. Sad statistics about people affected by the war are also presented here.
14. White Dunes and Lotus Lake (Mui Ne, Phan Thiet)
Lotus lake among white dunes
When going on a trip, it is advisable to plan your route in advance and decide which attractions of Vietnam you would like to see. One of the interesting places is the White Dunes and Lotus Lake, located in the vicinity of the village of Mui Ne. The distance from this small town to the destination of the trip is about 30 kilometers. The most convenient way to overcome it is on a bike, which you can rent here. If you wish, you can book a tour here.
If a tourist comes to vacation in the country for the first time and still doesn’t know what to visit in Vietnam , then you need to go straight here. It is better to start the journey in the morning, in this case you will not have to travel the entire route in the heat. There is a fee to enter the White Dunes, but the ticket costs only 15,000 VND. The incredibly beautiful picture that appears before your eyes completely justifies both the long journey and the money spent. The spectacle is so incredible that it seems that the person is not in Vietnam, but in the African desert. There are almost no people here, and you can think about your own things in solitude and enjoy the solitude. In the middle of the dunes is the Lotus Lake, surprising with the beauty of its delicate flowers.
15. Pepper plantations (Khutuong)
Pepper plantation on Phu Quoc island Tonbi ko
You can take an exciting trip to Phu Quoc Island, where the famous pepper plantation is located. This route has only recently begun to be explored by tourists. There is practically no infrastructure here, but the island has preserved its unique nature. These attractions in Vietnam are a must-see. You can go to the plantation on your own or as part of an excursion group.
The pepper grown here has a special taste and is considered the best in the world. Locals call Phu Quoc the kingdom of pepper, and, by the way, it’s not in vain. This plant is grown almost all over the island, but the largest plantation is located in Hutuong. Here you can take photos against the backdrop of real pepper bushes. The height of the plants reaches approximately 3 meters. In order to harvest crops, workers often have to use ladders. Harvest time lasts from February to July. The plantation is open to the public daily from eight in the morning to five in the evening.
- Cultural
This group includes monuments that meet criteria from I to VI. - Natural
This includes objects that fall under points VII to X. - Mixed type
It happens that one and the same monument may have features of the first two categories. In this case, he falls into this group. - Cit adel of the Ho Dynasty (Thành nhà Hồ)
- Hindu complex of Michon (Mỹ Sơn)
- Complex of monuments in the city of Hue (Quần thể di tích Cố đô Huế)
- Hanoi Citadel (Hoàng thành Thăng Long)
- Ancient Hoi An (Hội An)
- National par to Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng (Vườn quốc gia Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng)
- ịnhHạLong)
- Landscape complex Trang an-Tam Coc-Bit Dong (Quần thể danh thắng Tràng An)
- Bab e-Nahang Heritage Area (Ba Bể)
- Territory of Ancient Carved Stones in Sa Pa (Khu bãi đá chạm khắc cổ tại Sa Pa)
- Cultural Relics and Monuments of Huong Son (Quần thể di tích và danh thắng Hương Sơn)
- Halong Bay - Ar Hipelago Cat Ba (Vịnh Hạ Long - Quần đảo Cát Bà)
- Complex of monuments and landscape of Ta Yenta (Quần thể di tích danh thắng Yên Tử)
- National steam to Nam Cat Tiên (Cát Tiên)
- g Con Moong)
- Location: central Vietnam, Thanh Hoa province
- On the list since 201 1
- Status: II, IV
- Location: central Vietnam, 40 km from Hoi An
- On the list since 1999
- Status: II, III
- Location: central Vietnam, Hue city
- On the list since 1993
- Status: IV
- , Hanoi
- On the list since 201 0
- Status: II, III, VI
- Location: central Vietnam, Hoi An city
- On the list since 1999
- Status: II,V
- Location: central Vietnam, 50 km from Dong Hoi
- On the list since 2003 (repeatedly in 2015)
- Status: VIII, IX, X
- Location: South China Sea, Gulf of Thin, 165 km from Hanoi
- On the list since 1994
- Status: VII, VIII
- Location: Northern Vietnam, 90 km from Hanoi
- On the list since 201 4 years
- Status: V, VII, VIII
- Location: northern Vietnam
- Application submitted May 31, 2017
- Status: VII, X
- Location: northern Vietnam, Lao Cai province, 350 km from Hanoi
- Application submitted 1 November 5, 1997
- Location: Northern Vietnam, 60 km from Hanoi
- Application submitted 1 July 5, 1991
- Mixed-type attraction (status temporarily undetermined)
- Location: Northern Vietnam, 1 50 km from Hanoi
- Application submitted on January 27, 2017
- Status: VII, VIII, IX, X
- Location: northern Vietnam
- Application submitted on September 23, 2014
- Status: II, III, V, VI, VII
- Location: southern Vietnam, 100 km from Ho Chi Minh City
- Status: VII, IX, X
- Location: central Vietnam, 100 km from Hanoi
- Application submitted June 21, 2006
- Cultural landmark (status temporarily undetermined)
The main attractions of Vietnam are natural, architectural, historical, and cultural monuments located throughout the country. I bring to your attention the TOP attractions of Vietnam. Most of them are ancient objects with a centuries-old history. Today all of them are under the protection of UNESCO.
Attractions in Vietnam are very diverse and it is very difficult to make a list of the main or best places. The territory of the state stretches for 1,650 kilometers from south to north; ancient peoples inhabited these lands 800,000 years ago. The history of the country is replete with a variety of events (take, for example, the period of the American invasion in the second half of the last century).
Today this country is an interesting combination of modern megacities and ancient settlements deep in the virgin jungle. Here you can find architectural monuments, natural and cultural sites, and the heritage of the colonial era...
As you can see, the list of the best places for tourists in Vietnam could be hundreds of items. But I decided to collect on this page only those attractions that are officially approved by UNESCO as world heritage. Why? It’s simple: only selected natural and cultural monuments receive this status. So in this sense, we can really talk about a documented top.
Today there are eight objects. We'll look at them in more detail a little later. But first, let's figure out how their value and uniqueness are determined.
Members of the organization’s committee make a decision on inclusion in the list. To maintain the objectivity of this process, special criteria have been developed. There are 10 of them in total, and they are designated by Roman numerals from I to X ().
TOP - the main attractions of Vietnam
So, according to their value, all objects are divided into three categories:
It must be said that the sights of Vietnam from the UNESCO list meet criteria from I I to X. Thus, there are not only objects that are a masterpiece of human creative genius (such as the Moscow Kremlin or the Leaning Tower of Pisa).
Here are the Vietnamese monuments that are protected by UNESCO:
In addition, the Vietnamese government proposed that the commission consider seven more natural and cultural relics of the country to give them this high status.
They are included in the so-called preliminary list:
What is unique about these natural landscapes, religious sites and national parks? What are their unique features? Let's look at each of them in more detail.
Main list
According to data for 2017, there are 1,073 objects on the main list of UNESCO monuments. They are dispersed across 167 countries. There are eight of them in Vietnam. Some will say - only eight... Yes, this is not Italy, which tops the list with more than fifty attractions. But how impressive they are, these relics of ancient Vietnam! Let's get to know them and you will see that they are a must see. At least once in a lifetime. I invite you to take a short virtual tour of them right now.
Cultural heritage
So, here is a list of attractions that are of great importance in terms of the cultural development of the country.
Year of construction: 1397. It was the center of the Vietnamese capital for the next 9 years. It is the only stone citadel in Southeast Asia. Preserves information about the development of Neo-Confucianism in Vietnam during that time period. The fortress buildings are an excellent example of the new type of imperial city architecture in this region.
This is a whole constellation of Hindu tower-like temples. Belongs to the 10th century. In ancient times, it was a religious center with a large number of religious buildings. Its oldest artifact dates back to the 6th century.
It was discovered in 1885 by French soldiers. Each new ruler of the empire received a blessing there before ascending to the throne. Michon is the only place where Cham art flourished without interruption from the 7th to the 13th centuries.
The complex bears traces of a vanished civilization and shows the adaptation of the indigenous people to external influences (Indian art and architecture).
3. Complex of monuments in the city of Hue
These are hundreds of buildings from the time of the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty. The majestic and magnificent remains of the citadel, museums, Mandarin Halls, palaces, temples and pagodas of the complex provide an opportunity to touch the closed world of the Vietnamese emperors.
Recognized as unique due to its excellent architecture, reflecting a century and a half of the country's history. It is an outstanding example of an eastern feudal capital.
Construction of the fortress was completed at the beginning of 101 1. Includes buildings from the Ly Viet, Le, Tran and Nguyen dynasties. Many relics found there during excavations indicate that Thang Long Citadel was a center of cultural exchange between the countries of the region.
In 2009, it was given the status of a Special National Monument of Vietnam. The basis for assigning this status is that the buildings show a cultural layer that combined the influence of China and the Champa Empire, and important cultural and historical events in the process of the thousand-year formation and development of the state.
5. Ancient Hoi An
The city is located on the coastal plain of the Thu Bon River. A unique attraction is its central part - more than a thousand buildings made of wood and brick, often decorated with carvings. All of them are in excellent condition, although they date back to the 15th-19th centuries. The city's architecture is characterized by a harmonious combination of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese influences. Hoi An's particular value lies in its exceptionally well-preserved example of an Asian port city.
Natural heritage
And now we will get acquainted with the most beautiful natural areas of Vietnam.
1. Phong Nha-Kebang National Park
Its main value is the karst zone, which includes more than 300 caves and grottoes. It was formed over 400 million years.
In 2009, English scientists discovered the Shondong Cave on its territory. It was recognized as the largest in the world, in terms of diameter and continuity. The park's biodiversity is absolutely unique and cannot be compared with any other natural park.
It is part of Bakbo Bay (also known as Tonkin Bay). It includes nearly 2,000 islands, the average geological age of which is about 260 million years. This is a grandiose and exquisite creation of natural architecture. The bay is very beautiful and also has great biological diversity.
Halong is very popular among tourists. By the way, its enchanting views are the setting of the Oscar-winning film “Indochina”.
Mixed heritage
There is only one object here.
Landscape complex Changan-Tam Kok-Bit Dong
It occupies an area of 61–72 hectares. Contains three parts under the protection of the state, including: the cultural and historical zone of the ancient citadel of Hoa Lu, the Changan Tam Kok Bit Dong scenic area and the specially protected virgin forests of Hoa Lu. There are rare caves with a large number of multi-colored steel actites and stalagmites. Among the cultural assets is the Bai Dinh Pagoda. It is famous for the largest bronze Buddha statue in the region.
So we got acquainted with the cultural and natural monuments of Vietnam that are already recognized throughout the world. Of course, in the future this list will only increase, because the historical heritage of the country is enormous and has not yet been fully studied. And a number of candidates have already been identified.
Preliminary list
All countries supporting the UNESCO Monument Protection Program are eligible to submit new applications to it. Only after this the attraction can be included in the main list. Participating States are given the opportunity to resubmit these lists once every ten years.
There are seven such facilities in Vietnam, and I will talk about them below.
1. Babe Nahang Heritage Area
Includes Ba Be National Park, Na Hang and Nam Xuan Lak Nature Reserves, and the Lam Binh Forest Reserve area. Characteristic features of this heritage are the magnificent limestone “towers” covered with virgin forests. The wild scenic landscapes of this area are not only very beautiful. It is a global center of biodiversity, containing many rare and valuable species of plants and animals.
2. The territory of ancient carved stones in Shapa
It was discovered by French archaeologists in 1925. These are groups of stones with images of people, signs, natural phenomena, roads and geometric shapes. There is a hypothesis about the traces of three types of writing systems found here. There is also an assumption that the authors of the drawings may be ancient people. Since work is still underway to study these artifacts, the exact criteria for the value of the object have not yet been established.
3. Cultural relics and monuments of Huong Son
They are located in a limestone mountain range that was formed more than 200 million years ago. Includes three groups of Buddhist temples, shrines and pagodas. The most beautiful natural cave in the country is located here - Huong Thich. It is the territory of many rare and valuable species of tropical fauna and flora.
The complex is the site of the Huong Pagoda Festival, an important festival for the Vietnamese.
4. Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago
Considered to be a remarkable model of tropical and subtropical ecosystems, and the largest limestone island ecosystem in Asia. The territory is distinguished by a high level of biodiversity - more than 1 30 representatives of its flora and fauna are included in the Red Books of the country and the world, many are on the verge of extinction. The expansion of the bay by adding an archipelago contributes to the sustainable conservation of the natural value of this area.
5. Complex of monuments and landscape of Yenta
Located in a mountainous area. This is a kind of open natural-ecological museum with a wide biological diversity. The complex preserves the cultural traces of the Dai Viet civilization and is a vivid illustration of the interaction between man and nature. Dozens of pagodas, towers and small temples set against a backdrop of natural landscapes occupy more than 30,000 hectares and include the most important relics of Buddhism.
Founded in 1978. It is one of the main natural resource reserves in Vietnam. It has many species of animals and plants, more than 40 of which are threatened with extinction. 40% of the park is occupied by bamboo forests. The World Wide Fund for Nature has named this park one of 200 global ecological zones on the planet.
Read more on the page.
If you wish, you can book a tour with me to Cat Tien Park.
It is located on the territory of another national park - Cuc Phuong, in the limestone mountains. It was discovered by Vietnamese archaeologists in 1976. Bears evidence of ancient culture.
Thanks to the diversity of traditions and customs, which have been formed over thousands of years, Vietnam has enormous potential for tourism.
The natural and cultural attractions of the country, which are under the protection of UNESCO, are unique. They are witnesses to the birth of civilization and the stay of primitive man here, the emergence of writing, and the formation of a state and political structure.
To visit this interesting and unusual country, to see magnificent cultural and natural sites means to enrich your inner world and expand your horizons. And with my help, your journey through the mysterious Vietnam will become educational and unforgettable. Join us!
Sights of Vietnam on the map
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No categories foundHo Chi Minh City History Museum (Ho Chi Minh City Museum, or Bảo Tàng Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh), formerly known as Gia Long Palace, is a historical site in the city center. It is dedicated to the struggle of city residents against the French and Americans, as well as the ancient culture of the country. The museum is located in a colonial mansion that served as the residence of the governor of Cochinchina during French rule.