Bridges that breathe fire, tightly packed tube houses, and cascading rice terraces, these are just a few of the incredible, photo-worthy sights you’ll find in Vietnam. Here are our favourite spots to snap away in Vietnam, plus insider tips on where to find the best angles for your photo.
Northern | Vietnam
1. Ha Noi Train Street
Tucked away in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, amidst a labyrinth of colorful homes, lies a truly unique sight: a railway track running right through the street. A short walk along Tran Phu Street will bring you to this extraordinary spot. Here, you can witness the train slowly rumble through the neighborhood, capture a memorable photo on the tracks, or relax at one of the charming cafes that line the route. Trains pass by daily at 3 pm and 7 pm.
2. Long Bien Bridge
Constructed in 1902 by Parisian architects Daydé & Pillé, the Long Bien Bridge stretches gracefully across Hanoi’s winding Perfume River. This historic steel structure remains a vital passage for trains, motorbikes, and pedestrians as they make their way into the Old Quarter each day. Come early or just before sunset for incredible shots of the bridge and Banana Island below.
3. Bai Tho Moutain
Though the trek there may not be so glamorous, the sweeping panorama of Halong Bay as seen from the summit of Bai Tho mountain is one of the most Instagrammable views in Vietnam. Hike through the humid jungle to reach the top, and make sure to bring plenty of water!
4. Mua Cave
Some 500 steps stand between you and the impressive Tam Coc viewpoint at Mua Caves. A cascading dragon and tiered pagoda are embedded high on the limestone karsts. Combine these with the spectacular panorama of the river system and rice paddies below, and you have Instagram gold. Be sure to arrive early to beat the heat and the crowds.
5. Bich Dong Pagoda
Bich Dong Pagoda is as picturesque as they come, but it’s the intricate entrance that will leave the most lasting impression. A colorful gate and narrow stone bridge beckon across a sea of lotus blossoms. Just behind, the backdrop of jungle-clad mountains creates a scene that would spark anyone’s wanderlust.
6. Ban Gioc Waterfalls
Firmly off the beaten path on Vietnam’s Northern border, you’ll meet the thundering Ban Gioc waterfalls. These powerful tiered falls surrounded by jutting mountain peaks have emerged as one of Vietnam’s most mesmerizing scenes. Don’t forget to bring your passport as these falls sit on the border between Vietnam and China.
7. Ma Pi Leng Pass
Motorbiking is a major draw in the mountainous Northern province of Ha Giang. Along with the thrill of winding roads, you’re in for astounding landscapes, particularly when you reach Ma Pi Leng Pass. The emerald-green Nho Que River bisects dramatic cliffs and tiered rice fields, forming an awe-inspiring canyon.
Central | Vietnam
8. Hoi An Town
This tree-lined, lantern-lit thoroughfare in Hoi An is a prime photo spot. On Trần Phú, all the quintessential elements of Hoi An are accounted for blooming bougainvillea, silk lanterns, and ochre-painted shophouses, packaged quaintly together. Early morning before 8am is the sweet spot if you want to have the streets all to yourself.
9. Golden Bridge
The ethereal hands of Ba Na Hill’s Golden Bridge deliver one of Vietnam’s most surreal photos. These larger-than-life appendages support a gilded pedestrian bridge that looks out over the Ba Na Mountains and sweeping coastline below. Framed with flowering hydrangeas, and full of unique photography angles, the bridge is a must-visit for savvy Instagrammers.
10. Khai Dinh Tomb
Up the steep whitewashed steps of Khai Dinh Tomb, you’ll be greeted by a mix of Vietnamese and French architecture. You’re bound to want to snap a few pictures at the gates and courtyard before entering the tomb itself. Inside the details are astounding, from the porcelain mosaics on the walls to the mural of nine dragons on the ceiling.
11. Da Nang Dragon Bridge
As one of Vietnam’s four sacred animals, dragons have long been an important symbol of Vietnamese folklore. Today in up-and-coming Danang, this mythical animal gets a modern update. Take a gander as you zoom across this impressive bridge or admire it from the riverside — either way you can’t go wrong!
Southern | Vietnam
12. Mui Ne Sand Dunes
The seaside dunes of Mui Ne are a striking chance of scenery in tropical Vietnam, but that just makes the pictures even more outstanding. Explore in style with a guided jeep excursion or opt for a barefoot wander at sunrise. Either way, the photos and will be more than worth it! The Fairy Stream nearby, where red and white sand dunes meet, is another unusual spot photographers love.
13. Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church in Ho Chi Minh City takes pretty in pink to a whole new level. In 1877 Tan Dinh served as an orphanage and boarding school for over 300 of the city’s youth. Today it serves parishioners in the city from 5 am to 5:30pm, and is a favourite spot for popping pictures on Instagram.
14. Mekong Delta
Drift past coconut groves and cruise mangrove forests: the best way to see the Mekong Delta is definitely on a sampan. You can easily spend a whole day learning about the delta’s vibrant ecosystems and exploring its caramel-coloured canals. Don’t forget to pack your nón lá hat for that iconic shot.
Here are some places that most foreign travel should come to for the best photoshoot on Instagram. Hope you find the spots that fit your vibe.