Let’s be honest — most people planning a trip to Vietnam already have Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City on their list. And there’s nothing wrong with that. These spots are popular for a reason.
But Vietnam has so much more to offer once you step off the tourist trail. If you’re the kind of traveler who loves discovering places that aren’t packed with selfie sticks and overpriced souvenirs, this guide is for you.
Here are some lesser-known destinations in Vietnam that are equally stunning, culturally rich, and often way more peaceful.
Tucked into the far northern tip of Vietnam near the Chinese border, Ha Giang feels like a different world. Towering limestone mountains, winding roads carved into cliffs, and traditional villages hidden in the mist — it’s raw, wild, and incredibly photogenic.
Ride the Ha Giang Loop by motorbike if you're up for a real adventure. You’ll pass through remote ethnic minority communities, rice terraces, and landscapes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie.
If you think Halong Bay is impressive, wait until you see what lies beneath the surface in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This region is home to Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, as well as dozens of other underground marvels.
The vibe here is quiet and nature-focused — think riverside homestays, limestone cliffs, and jungle treks. It’s perfect for travelers looking to ditch the crowds and connect with nature.
Located off the southern coast, the Con Dao Islands are everything you’d want from a tropical getaway — clear waters, white sand beaches, coral reefs — minus the heavy tourism.
Despite their natural beauty, Con Dao has remained largely under the radar. Historically known for its dark past as a prison island, it’s now a place of calm and reflection, with a side of seriously underrated snorkeling.
Ever heard of Ban Gioc Waterfall? Most haven’t — and that’s the magic of it. Located in Cao Bang Province, it’s one of the largest waterfalls in Asia and straddles the Vietnam–China border.
The scenery is unreal. Lush green valleys, calm rivers, and the thunder of cascading water. It’s a bit of a journey to get there, but absolutely worth it.
Planning to visit more popular spots too? Check out this guide to get your basics covered: Top 7 Must-Visit Places in Vietnam for First-Time Travelers
Just a few hours from Hanoi, Bac Son Valley offers a peaceful retreat into countryside life. The valley is filled with rice fields in every shade of green, nestled between dramatic mountains. It’s especially stunning from above — hike to one of the nearby peaks for a sunrise view that will leave you speechless.
It’s the kind of place where life moves slowly. Locals farm, children ride bicycles through rice paddies, and time seems to pause.
Between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon lies Tuy Hoa, a sleepy coastal town that most travelers simply pass by. But if you stop here, you’ll find uncrowded beaches, cheap seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
It’s the ideal stop if you’re traveling Central Vietnam during the dry season. Wondering when to go? Here’s a full breakdown: Vietnam in 2025: Best Time to Visit, Weather Tips & Travel Advice
Down in the Mekong Delta, Chau Doc offers an authentic slice of life on the river. Visit floating villages, explore quiet pagodas, and take a boat ride through lush, waterlogged forests. It’s laid-back and deeply local — the kind of place where you just go with the flow (literally).
Vietnam’s beauty goes far beyond the guidebook favorites. These hidden gems offer something more intimate, more real. Whether it’s sharing a home-cooked meal in a mountain village or swimming in a waterfall you didn’t have to queue up to see — offbeat Vietnam hits different.
Sure, you’ll want to hit the classics — but make space for at least one of these on your itinerary. You won’t regret it.
