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During the summer months from May to August, Vietnam transforms into a vibrant playground, offering travelers with sun-soaked beaches, lush green mountains, and refreshing highland retreats. Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea, explore lesser-known coastal towns, or escape the heat in cooler elevations, Vietnam delivers an unforgettable summer experience.
This article will provide you with details of top 09 places to visit Vietnam in the summer.
Why choose Vietnam for Summer Travel?
Vietnam is particularly appealing in summer thanks to its varied climate and accessibility. While big cities can be hot, coastal areas benefit from cooling sea breezes, and mountainous regions provide a refreshing escape from the heat.
From lively seaside hubs to peaceful highland towns, Vietnam offers everything for every type of traveler. There are key reasons to visit Vietnam in summer, including:
- Stunning beaches with clear skies and calm waters;
- Lush landscapes in mountains and countryside;
- Abundance of fresh seafood and tropical fruits;
- Affordable travel costs across all budgets;
09 Places of Vietnam to Visit in the Summer
Central Vietnam: Beaches, Islands & Coastal Cities
01. Da Nang (02 – 03 Days)
A dynamic coastal city known for long sandy beaches and modern attractions.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: City-walk (Golden Bridge, Da Nang Museum, Marble Mountains);
- Day 02: Beaches (My Khe, Non Nuoc), Ba Na Hills;
- Day 03: 01-Day tour to Hoi An;
What to eat:
- Mỳ Quảng;
- Bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo;
- Bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancake);
- Fresh seafood;
How to get there:
- Take a flight to Da Nang International Airport;
- And then take a taxi or riding apps to transfer to Da Nang city center;
You may also need:
02. Nha Trang (02 – 04 Days)
A lively seaside destination famous for island tours and nightlife.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: Beach relaxation, Museum of oceanography;
- Day 02: Island hopping and snorkeling (3-island tour, Mun Island, Tam Island, Lang Chai);
- Day 03: Cultural sites (Mountain Church, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Long Son Pagoda, etc.) and mud baths;
- Day 04: VinWonders Nha Trang;
What to eat:
- Grilled seafood;
- Nem nướng;
- Bánh canh chả cá (Fish noodle soup);
- Bánh căn;
- Bún sứa (Jellyfish noodle soup);
How to get there:
- Take a flight to Cam Ranh International Airport;
- And then take the shuttle bus/ taxi to Nha Trang;
You may also need:
- Guide for arrival at Cam Ranh International Airport;
- Transportation from Cam Ranh Airport to Nha Trang;
03. Quy Nhon (02 – 03 Days)
A quieter coastal escape with untouched beaches and local charm.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: Ky Co Beach, Eo Gio;
- Day 02: Coastal drives and cultural sites (Quang Trung Musem, Banh It Cham Temple, Thap Doi Cham Towers, etc.);
- Day 03: Cu Lao Xanh;
What to eat:
- Vietnamese crispy pancakes;
- Bún rạm (Crab noodles);
- Bún sứa (Jellyfish noodles);
- Gỏi sứa (Jellyfish salad);
- Bánh hỏi cháo lòng (Pork noodles & congee);
- Bánh ít lá gai (Green bean cakes);
- Seafood;
How to get there:
- Take a flight to Phu Cat Airport (UIH);
- And then take the bus/ taxi to Quy Nhon city center;
04. Ninh Thuan (02 – 03 Days)
A hidden coastal gem known for its dry climate and scenic coastline.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: Vinh Hy Bay, Nui Chua National Park;
- Day 02: Sand dunes (Nam Cuong Sand Dunes), and vineyards (Ngoc Nga, Thai An, Ba Moi, etc.);
- Day 03: Kitesurfing (Phi Kite School, Phan Rang Kite Center, Sorrento Beach Club);
What to eat:
- Seafood;
- Lamb meat;
- Fermented fish sauce noodle soup;
- Local grape products (local wine, grape honey);
How to get there:
- Take a flight to Cam Ranh International Airport;
- And then take the public bus/ taxi to Ninh Thuan;
You may also need:
05. Mui Ne (02 – 03 Days)
A laid-back beach town famous for sand dunes and water sports.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: Sand dunes (Red and White Sand Dunes), and sunrise views;
- Day 02: Beach activities;
- Day 03: Mui Ne Fishing Village, Fairy Stream;
What to eat:
- Seafood BBQ;
- Bánh quai vạc (Cactus cake);
- Dragon fruits (Red and white);
- Nem nướng (Grilled pork sausages);
- Chè (Vietnamese desserts);
How to get there:
- Take a flight to Tan Son Nhat International Airport;
- And then take the shuttle bus to Mui Ne;
Central Highlands: Cool Escapes
06. Da Lat (02 – 03 Days)
A mountain retreat known for cool weather and romantic scenery.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: City-walk (Xuan Huong Lake,
- Day 02: Waterfalls and gardens;
- Day 03: Coffee farms;
What to eat:
- Chicken hotpot;
- Fresh strawberries (Ichigo Strawberry Farm, Tri Duc Strawberry Farm, Deo May Strawberry Farm, etc.);
- Bánh căn (Mini egg pancakes);
- Bánh tráng nướng (Vietnamese pizza);
- Bánh ướt lòng gà (Wet rice paper with chicken);
- Bánh mì xíu mại (Meatball soup with bread);
Hoe to get there:
- Take a flight to Lien Khuong Airport;
- And then take the public bus to Da Lat city center;
You may also need:
07 – 08. Pleiku & Kon Tum (02 – 04 Days)
A peaceful region rich in culture and natural beauty.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: Minh Thanh Pagoda, T’Nung Lake, Gia Lai Provincial Museum;
- Day 02: Kon Tum (Wooden Church, Rông Houses, Kon K’lor Suspension Bridge);
- Day 03 – 04: Mang Den, Ethnic Villages (Jarai/Bahnar);
What to eat:
- Grilled chicken rice;
- Bò né (Beef and egg);
- Local cafe;
- Kon Tum leaf salad;
- Grilled young veal;
How to get there:
- Take a flight to Pleiku Airport;
- And then take the bus/ taxi to Pleiku center;
Northern Vietnam: Mountain Retreat
09. Sapa (02 – 03 Days)
A refreshing escape with cooler temperatures and scenic landscapes.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 01: Explore Sapa town (Sapa Stone Church & Center, Sapa Square, Sapa Love market);
- Day 02: Trekking (Cat Cat & Ta Van Villages, Muong Hoa Valley, Silver Waterfall);
- Day 03: Fansipan Peak;
What to eat:
- Grilled dishes;
- Black chicken;
- Cơm lam (Bamboo-tube rice);
- Salmon hotpot;
- Bánh hạt dẻ (Chestnut cake);
- Thịt trâu gác bếp (Dried buffalo meat);
How to get there:
- Take a flight to Noi Bai International Airport;
- And then take the sleeper bus/ train to Sapa;
Budget Breakdown for Summer Travel in Vietnam
Daily Budget Breakdown for Summer Travel in Vietnam
Apart from breathtaking landscapes, Vietnam is also well known for being one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Asia, making it suitable for all types of travelers. Here is the average daily budget breakdown for visiting Vietnam in the summer.
Budget Traveler ($25 USD – $50 USD/day)
- Accommodation: $8 – $20 (typically dorms);
- Food: $8 – $15 (luxury restaurants excluded);
- Transport: $5 – $10 (normally public transportations);
- Activities: $5 – $10 (entrance tickets, island tours, sand dunes, cable car, porter, etc.);
Mid-Range Traveler ($50 USD – $120 USD/day)
- Accommodation: $25 – $60;
- Food: $15 – $30;
- Transport: $10 – $25;
- Activities: $10 – 30;
Luxury Traveler ($120 USD – $300 USD +/day)
- Accommodation: $80 – $200+;
- Food: $30 – $80;
- Transport: $30 – $100;
- Activities: $30 – $100;
Transportation Costs for Moving Between Cities in Vietnam
- Domestic flights: $40 – $120
- Sleeper buses: $10 – $25;
- Limousine vans: $15 – $40;
- Trains: $20 – $60;
You also may need:
Notes:
- All costs are for references only;
- Accommodation varies by regions and levels;
Money-Saving Tips when Travelling in Vietnam
While summer is popular for high-cost vacation due to the increase number of both local and foreign visitors, you can still save money visiting Vietnam with these following practical tips.
- Use public transports instead of taxis;
- Book hotels/ dorms/ flight tickets early if your itinerary is finalized;
- Try local food at early morning markets, roving vendors, and bustling sidewalk stalls;
- Visit less crowded destinations;
- Apply for online Vietnam visa in advance;
Vietnam in summer offers an exciting mix of coastal adventures, cultural exploration, and cool mountain escapes. Whether you’re relaxing on the beaches of Nha Trang, exploring the sand dunes of Mui Ne, or enjoying the fresh air in Da Lat, every destination brings something unique.
With its affordability, diverse landscapes, and excellent transport network, Vietnam remains one of the best summer destinations for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Disclaimer: While we put an effort to ensure that the provided information is correct and up-to-date, there are probably changes which we are unaware of.
