The Most Instagrammable Places in Vietnam

Interested in visiting Vietnam but not quite sure where to go or what to do? Consider joining Culture Trip’s specially curated 12-day Vietnam tour, which includes Hanoi, Lan Ha Bay and Hoi An among numerous over fantastic destinations.

Muong Hoa Valley is a valley in Sapa surrounded by mountains on both sides. This is one of the most popular trekking spots in the region, presenting endless opportunities to take photographs of mountains, terraced rice fields, waterfalls, streams and, as long as you ask respectfully, people. Spend the night at a homestay for more cultural insights.

Ban Gioc-Detian Falls straddles the border between China and Vietnam. It’s the fourth-largest waterfall along a national border in the world, and ownership is split between the two nations. The route up is just as beautiful as the falls themselves. Make sure to stop at the Nguom Ngao caves on the way – you may even have it to yourself. In fact, you’ll barely see another foreign tourist in this area.

The Ma Pi Leng Pass is a mountainous route in the Ha Giang Province of northern Vietnam. Measuring approximately 20km (13mi) long, it connects the towns of Dong Van and Meo Vac. It’s a spectacular stretch of road overlooking stunning rock formations, rice terraces and gorgeous scenery, so experienced riders may want to travel this area via motorbike to stop at every possible photo op.

This narrow residential alley through which train tracks run down the middle, frighteningly close to the homes, makes for a special photo in the Vietnamese capital. Trains only pass twice a day, prompting residents to pack up their things and move inside before a horn sounds and it’s safe to re-emerge.

This Unesco-listed 120km (75mi) stretch of coastline features thousands of limestone karst peaks rising from the water, plus stalactite caves, picturesque islands and traditional fishing villages. This is by far the most popular tourist destination in Vietnam; the best way to get around is by joining a tour.

Ninh Binh is similar to Ha Long Bay, with hundreds of limestone monoliths topped by dense greenery. The only difference is that these don’t emerge from the water but the ground. Rivers flow between them, making for rich and varied photography opportunities, and there are plenty of pagodas and peaks to snap too.

The caves of Phong Nha are unbeatable. The largest cave in the world, Hang Son Doong, is found here, but there is a two-year waiting list to explore it. Instead, opt for more accessible locations such as Hang En (the third-largest cave in the world), Hang Va, Hang Tien and Tu Lan.

Hai Van Pass is probably one of the most scenic routes in Vietnam, snaking its way through the coast and up the mountains. Reaching up to 500m (1,640ft) in altitude, this is the highest pass in Vietnam. From here, you will enjoy views of the mountainous landscape and turquoise coastline below, ideal for photos.

Recognised as a Unesco site, My Son Sanctuary is composed of ruins from the ancient Champa civilisation that once served as an important political and religious site in Vietnam. Commonly referred to as the Angkor Wat of Vietnam, these were built between the fourth and the 14th centuries CE, with the ruins now overgrown with weeds to make for an enchanting photo opportunity.

The Pongour Waterfalls are found in Da Lat. Train your camera on the huge rocky chasms, or try to snap the wide, terraced falls in one go. There’s lush foliage here, too, and plenty of dragonflies.

Vietnam really does have it all. Rice terraces, limestone mountains, enormous caves, gorgeous waterfalls, even sand dunes. Mui Ne is home to two vast expanses of sand – the red dunes and the white. Go for either sunrise or sunset and troll your followers for a moment by pretending you’re in the Sahara.

Not only is Ben Thanh Market where daily trading takes place; it also serves as a historical site that has witnessed all the ups and downs of Ho Chi Minh City. A landmark, a rendezvous point and a beautiful background for photos, this spot is a rite of passage for all visitors to the city.

The Cu Chi Tunnels offer the chance to snap some amazing pictures as you crawl on all fours into chambers and tunnels where both soldiers and civilians lived during the Vietnam War.

The Mekong Delta is the agricultural capital of Vietnam, a maze of rivers, paddies, orchards and stilt houses. This is also where the floating markets of Vietnam are found, ideal for energetic photos of trade amid exotic, lush surrounds.

Phu Quoc has some of the best beaches in the country. Of these, Long Beach is known to have the best sunset views and, as a result, it is lined with luxury resorts. Head here to make your followers seriously jealous.

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