With mountains, beaches, cities and islands, there is a lot to see and do in this vast, 330,000-square-kilometre country. With recommendations from our team in Vietnam, and avid travellers from abroad, we've compiled a list of the best places in Vietnam we think every Aussie should add to their itinerary.

So, let's embark on a journey to discover where to go in Vietnam and the remarkable places that await your exploration.

Where is it? Inland in Northern Vietnam How to get there: Most easily accessed from Hanoi via private car, bus or sleeper train as the journey can take anywhere from 5-10 hours.

For those who have the chance to visit Vietnam during the rainy and winter seasons, a trip to Sapa is highly recommended. Located in the northern part of the country, Sapa's highlight is the beautiful scenery of terraced rice fields along the way. If you take a train, you'll be treated to lush, green views. Additionally, Sapa boasts fresh air and cooler temperatures compared to other cities. To put it simply, Sapa is like the Chiang Mai of Vietnam.

Where is it? Northern Vietnam How to get there: Most easily accessed from Hanoi via private car or bus. The journey should take about 2.5-4 hours.

Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular destinations in Vietnam, and for a very good reason. The expansive bay is dotted with limestone mountains, creating breathtaking scenery. Best explored by boat, Ha Long Bay sees most people visit on a day trip, going in the morning and returning in the evening.

However, you can also choose a Halong Bay tour with an overnight stay on a boat, perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the stunning views of the bay.

Where is it? Nothern Vietnam How to get there: Direct flights to Hanoi are available from Sydney and Melbourne, with one-stop flights available from elsewhere in Australia.

Hanoi is renowned for its historical significance, vibrant street life, and delectable street food. Its Old Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets that date back to the 13th century, preserving the charm of an era long past. The city is also known for its role in the Vietnam War, with sites like Hoa Lo Prison as poignant reminders of that era. It is easily the best city to visit in Vietnam.

Explore the Old Quarter: Roam the narrow streets, each specializing in a particular trade, and discover a bustling market atmosphere. Indulge in Street Food: Hanoi is a food lover's paradise. Try iconic dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and egg coffee.

Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword): This serene lake lies at the heart of the city and is surrounded by lush greenery and historical sites. The Ngoc Son Temple, situated on an islet in the lake, adds to the area's cultural significance. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A solemn site where visitors can pay their respects to Vietnam's revered leader, Ho Chi Minh.

Where is it? Southern Vietnam How to get there: Direct flights from elsewhere in Vietnam are available, or with stopovers from Australia. If you're already in the region, ferries are available from Ha Tien and Rach Gia.

The next scenic spot in Vietnam will be Phu Quoc - the most beautiful tourist island in Vietnam today. Phu Quoc Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand and has an area of ​​574km2. This place is famous for its many beautiful beaches, fine white sand, cool air all year round, so it attracts many domestic and foreign tourists.

In addition to natural landscapes, Phu Quoc also has many famous tourist attractions such as Phu Quoc Prison, Coi Nguon Museum, Dinh Cau Cape, Da Ngon Stream.

Where is it? Inland in southern Vietnam How to get there: Direct flights are available from elsewhere in Vietnam, along with buses from Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang.

Nestled amidst the central highlands of Vietnam, Dalat is renowned for its year-round cool climate, earning it the nickname "City of Eternal Spring." This unique climate, charming French colonial architecture, and breathtaking landscapes make Dalat a sought-after destination for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Dalat is a beautiful city with numerous attractions catering to all travelers. One of the most iconic sights is Xuan Huong Lake, a tranquil body of water surrounded by scenic landscapes, ideal for boating and lakeside strolls.

Valley of Love is a popular park in Dalat that offers romantic vistas with rolling hills, vibrant flower gardens, and sculptures. It attracts couples and families alike and is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Dalat.

Where is it? Southern Vietnam How to get there: Direct flights are available from Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane, with one-stop flights available from other destinations in Australia.

Ho Chi Minh City, often called Saigon, is a bustling metropolis and Vietnam's largest city. It's famous for its dynamic energy, historical significance, and modern development. As a hub of commerce, culture, and history, Ho Chi Minh City offers an exciting blend of old-world charm and contemporary vitality.

In Vietnam, there are many exciting things to do. The War Remnants Museum displays war artifacts and photos, providing insight into the Vietnam War. To taste local life, visit Ben Thanh Market, which offers clothing, crafts, and street food. Explore the historical significance of the underground Cu Chi Tunnels during the Vietnam War. Finally, enjoy a scenic cruise along the Saigon River for a different view of the city's skyline.

Where is it? Southern Vietnam How to get there: Best accessed from towns between Ho Chi Minh City and the Cambodian border. Expect the journey by road or bus tour to take about 2 hours from Ho Chi Minh.

For a glimpse into the daily life of the Vietnamese people, we recommend visiting the “Mekong Delta,” the largest river delta in Southeast Asia, located in the southwestern part of Vietnam. Here, you can observe locals rowing boats to sell goods on the river. Tourists can take boat trips through the mangrove forests to explore the environment and experience the way of life in this unique area.

Where is it? Inland in Northern Vietnam How to get there: Easily accessed from Cao Bang City, which is about 6-9 hours from Hanoi by bus.

Bản Giốc Waterfall, also known as Thác Đầu Đẳng, is a very popular tourist destination in Vietnam, especially for nature lovers. This beautiful waterfall is located on the border between China and Vietnam, renowned for its stunning scenery.

It's easily accessible from Hanoi, so if you're flying into Hanoi, don't miss the chance to take a bus to visit this breathtaking waterfall while you're in the north of Vietnam. You’re sure to fall in love with the beauty of Bản Giốc Waterfall!

Where is it? Central Vietnam How to get there: It's a 2-hour drive or a 2.5-hour train journey from Da Nang. You can fly to Da Nang via a one-stop flight from Australia.

The Complex of Hue Monuments was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty of Vietnam for 143 years from 1802. It was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. Despite the many years of war, the Hue Imperial City still retains its original architectural features.

The ancient capital of Hue currently has 16 constructions, the most prominent of which are the Palace in the Forbidden City, the Imperial City, the Imperial City, the Nam Giao Altar, the mausoleums, the Temple of Literature, the Temple of Literature, Quyen Lake and Thien Mu Pagoda. For those who want to learn about the feudal period of Vietnam, do not miss the name of the ancient capital of Hue.

Where is it? Central Vietnam How to get there: It's about a 1-hour drive inland from Hoi An by private car or tour bus.

If you thought ancient temple ruins were limited to neighbouring Cambodia and Thailand, think again.

Much less visited than Angkor Wat or Ayutthaya, My Son Sanctuary deserves to be on the list of the most beautiful landscapes in Vietnam.

Located in Quang Nam province , My Son Sanctuary is an architectural complex with more than 70 extremely unique Cham Pa temples. This place was officially discovered in 1885 and recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage in 1999.

Although heavily damaged by war and time, to this day, the Cham Pa structures at My Son are still almost intact and are worthy for every tourist to visit once.

Where is it? On the coast in Central Vietnam How to get there: There aren't direct flights to Nha Trang from Australia, but you can get there with just one stop. You can also travel there by train.

Nha Trang is a coastal paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant underwater world. Often dubbed the "Riviera of the South China Sea," it's a popular destination for beach lovers, water enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation by the sea.

Nha Trang, a coastal city in Vietnam, offers visitors a variety of attractions and activities. These include Nha Trang Beach, perfect for swimming and water sports, Vinpearl Amusement Park, accessible via cable car, and island-hopping tours to nearby islands such as Hon Tre and Hon Tam.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are also popular activities for visitors to witness the stunning coral reefs and marine creatures in Nha Trang's underwater world. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam.

Where is it? On the coast in Central Vietnam How do you get there? There aren't direct flights available from Australia, but you can get there with just one stop.

Da Nang, nestled along the central coast of Vietnam, is famous for its harmonious blend of natural beauty and modern infrastructure. This city boasts pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, and a rapidly developing urban scene, making it a well-rounded destination for diverse travelers.

Da Nang offers many amazing places to explore. My Khe Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports with its white sands and gentle waves. The Marble Mountains are a cluster of limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and panoramic viewpoints, offering a unique blend of nature and spirituality.

You can also visit Linh Ung Pagoda, which has a colossal Lady Buddha statue and offers panoramic coastal views. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the Son Tra Peninsula, a natural sanctuary with lush forests, diverse wildlife, and picturesque views.

Where is it? On the coast in Central Vietnam How to get there: There's no airport in Hoi An, but it's only about 50 minutes south of Da Nang airport, where you can fly with just one stopover from Australia.

Hội An, located on the central coast of Vietnam, is famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and cultural significance. This charming town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into Vietnam's rich history and heritage.

Hoi An Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical district with intricate architecture, narrow streets, and an enchanting atmosphere featuring colorful lanterns. You can learn to make traditional Vietnamese lanterns and explore the town, rice paddies, and countryside by renting a bicycle.

Discover three luxury hotels in Hoi An for your perfect vacation. Anantara Hoi An Resort offers elegant riverside rooms, tranquil gardens, and a spa. Little Riverside, a Luxury Hotel & Spa, is a stylish boutique hotel with stunning views and a refreshing spa.

Almanity Hoi, An Wellness Resort, is ideal for a wellness-focused experience, with spacious rooms, a peaceful ambiance, and holistic spa treatments. Choose the perfect hotel for your next Hoi An stay.

Where is it? Northern Vietnam How to get there: Take a bus, train or private car about 1.5 hours south from Hanoi.

Ninh Bình is renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on Land." It's famous for its stunning karst formations, tranquil waterways, and historical sites that showcase the beauty and history of Vietnam.

Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex and Tam Cốc-Bích Động are UNESCO World Heritage Sites with stunning limestone karsts, tranquil waterways, and cave systems. You can take boat tours to see the breathtaking scenery from unique viewpoints. If you prefer to explore on land, cycling tours are available. Rent a bicycle to explore rural landscapes, pass by lush rice paddies, and visit local villages.