Hidden Gems in Vietnam Beyond Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh
There is something wonderful about Vietnam: the smell of strong coffee in the morning, mist hovering over the green rice fields, and roads that go on forever, winding through mountains and fishing villages. Most visitors stop in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. But if you dig a little deeper, you might find a version of Vietnam that seems slower, more local, and even more beautiful. If you’re planning your first trip to Vietnam and want to wander off the beaten path a bit, this guide will help you find the hidden gems across the country: the quiet towns, untouched islands, and truly soulful landscapes that somehow never make it onto a postcard. And, if you’re looking for some help creating a route that perfectly fulfills your travel style, The Tarzan Way, an AI-powered personalized Vietnam trip planner, can make that process easier. Why Go Beyond Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh? Avoid the crowds: Vietnam’s metropolitan areas are lively, but you’re able to connect with locals and experience more open space by venturing into lesser-known areas. Experience real Vietnamese life: In the countryside and on the coast, you will see ordinary life, like farmers tending to rice paddies, fishermen mending their nets, and children waving as you drive by. Find peace and beauty: You’ll then find tranquil places to explore; misty valleys, limestone mountain peaks, and wide, empty beaches without the map. Affordable exploration: Many off-the-beaten-path regions are more affordable than standard travel and more authentic by offering unique homestays or small eco-lodges. Hidden Gems to Add to Your Vietnam Travel Itinerary Each of the below destinations brings a different side of Vietnam to life – from wild mountains to untouched islands and calm lakes. Ninh Binh (Trang An & Tam Coc) Often called “Halong Bay on land,” this peaceful area offers limestone karsts rising from rice paddies. Take a sampan boat through caves and temples surrounded by calm waters. Perfect for travelers seeking slow mornings and quiet evenings in nature. Ha Giang Loop & Dong Van Plateau One of Vietnam’s most breathtaking drives, full of winding mountain roads and deep valleys. Ride or join a guided loop tour to see ethnic minority villages, local markets, and cliff-edge viewpoints. Ideal for adventure seekers planning their Vietnam travel itinerary. Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park Home to some of the world’s largest caves, like Son Doong and Paradise Cave. Try a jungle trek, river cave exploration, or a boat ride into the dark cave systems. Great stop for travelers mixing adventure with natural wonders. Ba Be National Park A serene freshwater lake surrounded by dense jungle and waterfalls. Stay with local Tay families in stilt houses and enjoy home-cooked meals. Adds a peaceful pause to your Vietnam trip itinerary. Pu Luong Nature Reserve Think of green rice terraces, wooden bridges, and quiet trekking trails. Perfect for those who want a rural experience without tourist crowds. Great alternative to Sapa if you prefer offbeat adventures. Quy Nhon & Phu Yen Vietnam’s underrated coastal duo is known for turquoise waters and local charm. Enjoy empty beaches, fresh seafood, and hidden rock formations like Ganh Da Dia. Add them to your Vietnam travel planner if you love sea views without resort crowds. Con Dao Islands A small archipelago far from the mainland, famous for its clear waters and coral reefs. Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and quiet romantic escapes. Also holds historical significance as a former prison island – a mix of history and serenity. Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang) One of Southeast Asia’s most stunning waterfalls, right on the border with China. Surrounded by karst peaks and green valleys, it’s a photographer’s dream. Reachable by scenic routes that make for a great road trip addition. Dalat’s Countryside Trails Beyond the town center, explore coffee plantations, flower farms, and waterfalls. The cool mountain weather and pine forests make it perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking calm. Mekong Delta’s Lesser-Known Routes Skip the crowded floating markets and visit smaller provinces like Tra Vinh or Ben Tre. Take a boat through narrow canals, cycle through coconut groves, and meet Khmer communities. A gentle, cultural side of southern Vietnam. Planning Practicalities & Insider Tips Best time to visit: Overall, travel is best from November through to April when the weather is dry and pleasant. If you want more seasonal insights, refer to our Best Time to Visit Vietnam in 2025 for Travelers to work out which routes are most suitable. Transport: Domestic flights and trains are very effective for long routes, while you can rent a motorbike or use the local bus for shorter distances. Where to stay: Homestays and eco-lodges offer the most authentic, local experience as well as hospitality. Budget: Travelling in Vietnam is very manageable. Even in offbeat locations, you will find decent accommodation at a good price. Packing: Bring light clothing for the south and layers for the north. If you are travelling during the monsoon season, don’t forget to bring a rain jacket. Local etiquette: Smiling is encouraged, always remove your shoes when entering homes, and always show respect to elders. If trip planning feels overwhelming, a tailored itinerary from The Tarzan Way can simplify your route while keeping it flexible and personalized. Offbeat Vietnam Itinerary Ideas 7-Day Northern Escape Day 1–2: Hanoi arrival and day trips to Ninh Binh. Day 3–5: Explore Ha Giang Loop. Day 6: Relax in Ba Be National Park. Day 7: Return to Hanoi for departure. 10-Day Coastal Trail Day 1–2: Fly to Da Nang, visit My Son ruins or Hoi An. Day 3–5: Head to Quy Nhon and Phu Yen for quiet beaches. Day 6–8: Fly to Con Dao Islands. Day 9–10: End with a cultural evening in Ho Chi Minh City. 2-Week Explorer’s Route North: Hanoi → Ha Giang → Ba Be → Phong Nha Central & South: Dalat → Quy Nhon → Mekong Delta (Ben Tre or Tra Vinh) A perfect balance of nature, culture, and coastline. Responsible & Local Travel Support small family-run
