11 most beautiful places in Vietnam named on British newspaper

In an article titled '11 of the most beautiful places in Vietnam (and how to see them),' published on August 30, 2026, travel writer Joshua Zukas introduces 11 destinations ranging from historic cities and the mountains of northern Vietnam to caves, tropical forests and coastal islands.

The list includes Hue, Hanoi, My Son Sanctuary, Sa Pa, Hoang Su Phi, Cao Bang, Phong Nha Ke Bang, Son Tra Peninsula, Cat Tien, the coastal stretch from Quy Nhon to Phan Rang, and Con Dao.

Hue ranks first on the list. According to The Times, the former imperial capital is known for its tree lined boulevards, riverside parks, lotus ponds and historic palaces and monuments. 

The Imperial City, royal palace complex and landscapes along the Perfume River all contribute to the city’s distinctive character.

Meanwhile, Hanoi is considered a livelier and more everyday destination. The Old Quarter, with its narrow streets, sidewalk eateries, shops and old buildings, is seen as a place that best captures the capital's distinctive rhythm of life.

Moving from the cities, the list turns to the northern highlands, with Sa Pa and Hoang Su Phi. 

The mountains, valleys and terraced rice fields create the region's distinctive landscape. In Sa Pa, The Times recommends that visitors go beyond the town center by taking multi day trekking trips and staying with local families for a closer look at life in the area.

Cao Bang was also selected for its limestone mountains and scenic attractions such as Ban Gioc Waterfall and Mat Than Mountain. 

Beyond its natural beauty, the province is home to sites of historical and cultural significance, including Khuoi Ky Stone Village and Pac Bo Cave.

With Phong Nha Ke Bang, the main attraction lies in its cave system, featuring underground rivers, stalactites and vast chambers. 

Visitors can choose from a range of experiences, from taking a boat trip through Phong Nha Cave and exploring Paradise Cave to embarking on adventurous expeditions to Son Doong, Hang En and Hang Va.

Another destination with a strong cultural identity is My Son Sanctuary in Da Nang City, Central Vietnam. The brick temple complexes of the Champa Kingdom, set amid a valley surrounded by trees, create a landscape distinct from the other destinations on the list.

Near the city of Da Nang, Son Tra Peninsula has drawn the attention of The Times for its combination of tropical forest and sea. The peninsula features beaches, small bays and scenic mountain roads, while also serving as a habitat for the red shanked douc langur.

In the south, Cat Tien brings visitors closer to the wild. Its tropical forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife, although spotting animals in their natural habitat requires patience.

Along the south central coast, The Times also highlights the stretch of coastline from Quy Nhon to Phan Rang, known for its rocky peninsulas, small bays, sandy beaches and clear blue waters.

Con Dao rounds out the list, bringing together beaches, tropical forests and a rich marine ecosystem. Its protected waters also provide opportunities for activities such as coral reef diving and sea turtle watching.

Across the 11 destinations, The Times paints a diverse picture of Vietnam, spanning vibrant cities and cultural heritage sites to mountains, caves, forests and islands.

Being featured by one of Britain's long established newspapers also helps bring these destinations to a wider international audience in 2026.