Vietnam is a perfect country for those who want to feel real Asia. Even though big cities of the country rapidly transform into modern metropolises, travelers will still find there stunning exotic nature, rice fields, traditional water markets, gorgeous highlands and motorcycles used to transport ripe fruit and vegetables.
Hanoi is a busting modern city, but traditions are greatly valued there. Start your observation of the city from the Old Quarter as the majority of sights, such as Bach Ma Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake, are located there. Ho Chi Minh City, which is also known as Saigon, is the second largest city in Vietnam and another popular destination. In Saigon, old palaces and pagodas border with modern skyscrapers, making the city look very original. The most well-known places of interest there include Giac Lam Pagoda and the Reunification Palace.
During your stay in Vietnam, don’t forget to include Hoi An in your “must-visit” list. This old city is sometimes compared with Venice because of its long canals. The city of Hue, which once was the imperial town, is rich in architectural landmarks, among which travelers are particularly recommended to visit the Tombs of Emperors and the Citadel. After observing grandiose buildings, enjoy some walk along the bank of the Perfume River.
Any description of Vietnam would not be complete without mentioning its nature attractions. Ha Long Bay is one of the most famous places in Vietnam. Thousands of tourists visit it every year to enjoy the view of jungles and limestone pillars. If you want to explore rural Vietnam, head to the Muong Hoa valley, where rice fields are mixed with bamboo groves. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which is added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is a spectacular place with picturesque grottos, large caves with stalactites and stalagmites, underground lakes and hidden cave beaches.
Museums of Vietnam offer large collections of precious items dedicated to the culture and history of this beautiful country. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi exhibits a collection of early Vietnamese tribes, while the Fine Arts Museum offers visitors to see collections of wooden items, ceramics and stone carvings. In Ho Chi Minh City travelers are recommended to attend the War Remnants Museum, the Fine History Museum and the HCMC Museum.
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Cities and sights of Vietnam