There’s a classic charm about Vietnam that stays with you long after your visit. Whether it is Vietnam’s beaches, the rush of scooters in the cities, or the stillness of the rice fields at dusk, the country offers a memorable experience to its visitors. And for many travellers, this place offers its deepest mark through the stories etched into its streets, temples, and museums.
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the Vietnam War Museum, formerly known as the War Remnants Museum, is one such place. While it might not top every tourist’s bucket list, those who walk through its halls find it hard to forget the place. The museum offers an unflinching look at the war’s impact on everyday people and serves as a reminder of how history shapes the present. Read on to learn more about Vietnam’s top cultural landmarks!
Hoi An
If you are in Vietnam, you mustn’t miss a chance to wander through Hoi An’s old town, and that too, at a leisurely pace. It’s not a place that screams for attention; it earns it anyway! Its weathered yellow buildings and swaying lanterns beautifully echo the past centuries. This UNESCO-listed town tells the story of trade, craftsmanship and quiet resilience. You won’t need a guide to appreciate this place; just some time and your willingness.
Hue
Hue has a beautiful softness to it, despite its glorious past. The old capital’s Imperial City still stands behind thick stone walls, holding onto what’s left of its regal legacy. Some buildings have worn down with time, while others have been restored with care. Walking through its courtyards, you will sense more than history; you will feel the pride of a city that knows where it came from. Do indulge in outdoor fun activities in the country, but do not miss out on unique places for a heartwarming experience.
Vietnam War Museum
This list is incomplete without mentioning the Vietnam War Museum, also known as the War Remnants Museum. At this place, you will find photographs, letters, and memories preserved with intention. If you are unfamiliar with Vietnam’s war details, this place will help you learn a lot. For those who carry pieces of that history in their families or countries, it can be an emotional experience. However, this discomfort and pain make it a must-visit place during your Vietnam trip.
Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are hardly an hour outside the city, offering a different perspective on wartime Vietnam. These cramped, handmade passages were once lifelines for soldiers and civilians alike. If you are willing to handle the tight squeeze, try walking through it to experience the conditions people endured back then just to stay alive! It’s less about sightseeing and more about humility and connection to those difficult times.
My Son Sanctuary
Nestled in the jungle, not far from Da Nang, My Son is often overshadowed by more famous ruins across Asia. But if you visit this place, you will be rewarded with priceless tranquillity. Built over a thousand years ago, these Hindu temples are crumbling, but they are dignified even in decay. If you listen closely, the wind moving between the stones is nothing short of surreal, with music notes that no human composer can ever create.
Temple of Literature
Right in the heart of Hanoi sits a peaceful haven, worlds apart from the city’s usual buzz. The Temple of Literature honours ancient scholars, learning, and Confucian traditions. Within its moss-covered walls, there’s a sense of lingering calmness, no matter how noisy the streets outside may be. On any given day, you will spot students coming here to pray for luck before essential exams, while travellers pause to soak in the elegant courtyards, calm ponds, and thoughtful quotes carved in stone. It’s a gentle reminder that the pursuit of knowledge is timeless and that respect for learning never fades away.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam’s top cultural landmarks don’t scream for attention; they make you pause, reflect and soak in the unique ambience. These places hold stories of survival, incredible craftsmanship, and treasured memories. Some are grand, while some are unassuming. But all these places, in their distinctive way, show how deeply a country’s past is woven into its present. So, plan a trip to any of these places for a well-rounded experience in the country.
A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.
