The 5 Best Quiet Getaways in Southern Vietnam

People often say that northern Vietnam is more beautiful than the south. While the north does have more mountainous terrain, this statement is simply untrue. Here are some of the most beautiful places in the southern half of the country.
Phú Quốc
Natural Feature

This list won’t make sense if Phu Quoc doesn’t kick it off. This gorgeous island lies to the southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, and is actually closer to Cambodia than it is to Vietnam. The beaches are fantastic, and the sunsets are glorious. The island is also popular for its high-end resorts that line up Long Beach, making it an ideal, luxurious getaway. There are many undiscovered beaches on this island, so grab a bike and explore. Up north you will find the Phu Quoc National Park which is mostly used for research, but some parts are open for travelers where you are able to trek mountains, camp in the wilderness and sleep under the stars. The island is also a seafood paradise!
Da Lat
Architectural Landmark

Often recommended by Ho Chi Minh City-dwellers as an ideal weekend getaway, Da Lat will welcome you with a little cute French-inspired town surrounded by mountains, year-round cool weather and fresh, unpolluted air. It is about 185 miles (300 kilometers) to the north of Ho Chi Minh City, but the peaceful environment makes it seem like even farther a distance. There is a lot of nature to take in here—lots of trekking, many viewpoints, waterfalls, gardens and lakes. Getting a motorbike and riding around is a lot of fun. You can also do some awesome coffee tours while up there because Da Lat grows some of the finest beans in the world. You can pick your own flowers, roast the beans and make your own cup of authentic coffee.
Accommodation is easy—from resorts to simple homestays, they all come at different prices. We recommend booking at a homestay where you can get up close and personal with your host family, cook with them and hang about town.
Mỹ Tho
Architectural Landmark

The Mekong Delta is a favorite destination in the south of Vietnam, especially for those looking to explore some floating markets and authentic Vietnamese countryside. While Can Tho is the most popular destination of the lot and therefore the most touristy, we recommend you visit My Tho. Over here you can board a cute sampan and row your way through palm-tree lined canals of the Delta, surrounded by rice paddies and fruit orchards, and enjoy some Mekong delicacies in a floating restaurant. While you can do the same in Can Tho, the city is overly touristy and you may find the waterways cramped with lots of other boats.
You will also find a nice range of accommodation options but don’t expect anything too fancy. You’re in the countryside, so learn to adapt! Again, we recommend spending your nights at a homestay. If you do not wish to spend the night here, you can carry on for a little while longer and get to Can Tho where you will have a larger range to choose from, and more comfortable options.
Mui Ne
Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

Con Dao
Natural Feature

Con Dao archipelago is a group of 16 islands in the south. The main island, Con Son, is accessible through a boat from Vung Tau or you may choose to fly in from Ho Chi Minh City. These islands are known for the vast range of wildlife and aquatic life. 80% of the island is forested, making Con Dao great for adventure seekers as you can explore both, above ground and under water. There’s a dark past to the island as well, as it was a giant jail cell for political prisoners during the wars Vietnam went through.
Accommodation is generally not fancy, though there are a few resorts. Your stay here can either be luxurious, or a simple getaway.
The Best Trips and Tours in Vietnam
Natural Feature

Vietnam has many amazing charms, including its bustling vivacious cities, its magnificent natural landscapes and its wonderfully welcoming locals. From the buzzing streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the placid shores of Phu Quoc island, there’s so much to see and do – and these tours and trips will help you make the most of your visit to this stunning country.