Why travel to Southern Vietnam?
Southern Vietnam is a region full of diversity – both in nature and culture.
Here, you can be captivated by the beautiful green river landscapes or embrace tranquillity along peaceful stretches of coastline, perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. In Southern Vietnam’s charming towns and villages, you will also discover authentic encounters with the locals and fascinating insights into the country’s rich history.
In short: Southern Vietnam truly has something for every traveller seeking adventure.
What to see in Southern Vietnam
A tour to Vietnam is always an extraordinary experience. Southern Vietnam is home to some of Vietnam’s most fascinating attractions – whether you dream of exploring vibrant cities, intriguing history, lush landscapes, or relaxing beach destinations.
Below you can read more about some of the attractions waiting to be discovered on a tour of southern Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam, home to around 10 million people – and almost as many scooters and motorbikes. The city, which served as the capital of South Vietnam until the country’s reunification in 1976, was originally called “Saigon”, a name now used only for the old town (District 1).
Amidst the lively chaos, Ho Chi Minh City reveals itself as a city of contrasts, where sleek modern skyscrapers stand side by side with elegant colonial buildings that bear witness to Vietnam’s fascinating and eventful past.
On a city tour of this vibrant metropolis, you can visit landmarks such as the Old Post Office and the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, where the beauty of French colonial architecture instantly catches the eye. To delve into the country’s darker wartime history, visit the War Museum and the Reunification Palace, where the Vietnam War officially ended on 30 April 1975, or the Saigon Commandos Museum, which offers a rare insight into everyday life during the war.
The adventure doesn’t end here. Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, even more exciting experiences await. For example, you can enjoy a half-day excursion to the impressive Cu Chi Tunnels, which served as hiding places for the North Vietnamese Viet Cong during their surprise attacks on American forces.
The Mekong Delta
In the lush landscape of the Mekong Delta, stretching across nearly 40,000 km², the majestic Mekong River winds its way through a fascinating maze of rivers and streams.
As the Mekong River flows through most of the delta, the best way to experience this beautiful region is from the water on a relaxing boat trip, allowing you to get close to nature and feel the rhythm of life along the riverbanks.
Your boat trip along the Mekong River also takes you to our sustainability project in the village of Vinh Long, where you’ll gain an authentic insight into traditional farming life as you join local farmers in planting and tending rice fields.
The mountain town of Da Lat
In the central highlands of Vietnam lies Da Lat – a charming mountain town known for its cool highland climate, fragrant pine forests, and beautiful colonial-era architecture.
Here you can stroll amongst elegant colonial buildings and visit the city’s night market, bursting with colourful textiles and local produce such as strawberries, giant avocados, dried fruit, and warm soy milk. We also recommend trying the local favourite, Vietnamese pizza bánh tráng nướng, which is especially popular here. At the heart of the town lies Xuan Huong Lake, where you can take in the view from the shore or head out onto the water in a paddle boat.
The natural beauty continues beyond Da Lat, where you can explore the lush tea plantations of Cau Dat, see the iconic Prenn Waterfall, and enjoy the sweeping views of rolling hills and countless greenhouses on a delightful train journey.
Lak Lake
A little northwest of Da Lat – in the northern part of southern Vietnam – lies Lak Lake, a large, tranquil freshwater lake beautifully surrounded by verdant hills, rippling rice fields, and small, traditional M’nong villages.
The area surrounding Lak Lake invites you to experience nature at its best. Look forward to a scenic walk through the tropical forest to the hidden Bim Bip waterfall, where you can take a dip in a natural pool, and a pleasant cycle ride to a local village that offers unique insight into the culture of the M’nong people.
In the morning, wake up to a breathtaking view over Lak Lake, where the sun’s first rays reflect off the calm waters.
Beach holiday in Southern Vietnam
Southern Vietnam is the ultimate beach holiday destination for those dreaming of pure relaxation in tropical surroundings. Several of our tours either include or can be extended with a beach holiday in Southern Vietnam, in either Mui Ne or on Phu Quoc.
In the coastal town of Mui Ne, enjoy peaceful days by the sea, surrounded by golden sand, turquoise water, and gently swaying palm trees. Along the beach, you’ll find charming eateries serving delicious Vietnamese dishes. When you’re not relaxing on the beach, you can explore the area’s fascinating attractions, such as the impressive sand dunes or the historic Po Shanu Cham Towers, located just a short drive away.
On the island of Phu Quoc you’ll find some of the finest beaches in southern Vietnam, with golden sands, warm swimming waters, and lush green forests that give the island its tropical character. Wherever you are on the island, wonderful experiences await. For example, you can go diving or snorkelling among the southern An Thoi Islands, where stunning coral reefs unfold below the surface, or soak up the lively atmosphere at the famous night market in Duong Dong, where you can sample delicious Vietnamese specialities.
How does Southern Vietnam differ from Northern Vietnam?
Vietnam is a country full of contrasts, and the difference between the north and south is striking – in terms of climate, nature, and atmosphere.
Climate
What particularly distinguishes a tour to Southern Vietnam from a tour to Northern Vietnam is the weather. Southern Vietnam enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round and distinct dry and rainy seasons, while Northern Vietnam experiences changing seasons with cool winters and hot summers. Moreover, the dry and rainy seasons occur at different times in the two regions.
Nature
There are also natural differences between the north and south. While Northern Vietnam is known for its mountainous landscapes, serene bays, and rolling rice terraces, southern Vietnam captivates visitors with its impressive sandy beaches and lush river scenery.
Culture
As North and South Vietnam were separated for much of the 20th century, distinct cultural differences have developed between the two regions. Northern Vietnam is often seen as being shaped by a more traditional and conservative lifestyle, while Southern Vietnam offers a more open and easy-going atmosphere.
One thing, however, is certain: both Northern and Southern Vietnam are incredible in their own way and enchant with their individual charm. If you find it difficult to decide which part to visit, we offer several tours that allow you to experience Vietnam from the north to south in one single journey.
When is the best time to visit Southern Vietnam?
The dry season, which typically lasts from December to April, is generally considered the best time to travel to Southern Vietnam. During this period, you can look forward to plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures.
Travelling in Southern Vietnam during the rainy season also has its clear advantages. The short, intense showers that characterise the season transform the landscape into a lush paradise and attract fewer visitors, giving you more space to enjoy the attractions.
Read more about the best time to visit Vietnam.
Why visit Southern Vietnam with TourCompass?
When you travel to Southern Vietnam with TourCompass, you’re choosing a tour operator with in-depth knowledge of the region. As we regularly visit both Northern and Southern Vietnam, we know exactly what’s worth experiencing. Our tours in Southern Vietnam are carefully designed to show you the very best the region has to offer.
All our tours to Southern Vietnam are package holidays that include flights, hotels, transport, and scheduled activities. You can therefore leave the planning to us and simply focus on enjoying the experience. On most of our tours, we’ve also set aside free time so you can add your own personal touch to your holiday.
We also have a close and long-standing partnership with our local collaborator, who has more than 30 years of experience in the travel industry. Like us, they place great emphasis on working hand in hand with local communities to ensure that the people and cultures we visit also benefit from our presence.
Vietnam is one of our most popular destinations, and thousands of travellers have already explored this fascinating region with us – returning home with memories that last a lifetime.
Book your tour of Southern Vietnam with TourCompass
Charming towns, lush river landscapes, and tranquil paradise beaches – these are just some of the incredible experiences awaiting you in Southern Vietnam.
Thinking of making Southern Vietnam the setting for your next great adventure? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced travel specialists, who are ready to make your travel dreams come true.
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