Are you thinking of spending the end of year holidays by going on a trip to discover another culture and meet new people? If a tropical country that is rich in natural wonders and cultural heritage means something to you, why not fly to Vietnam? We have prepared for you a list of 6 beautiful destinations to visit this winter to make your trip to Vietnam an unforgettable adventure.

1. Ha Giang

A paradise for hikers in Vietnam, this northern region is undoubtedly one of the most exciting regions of the country. From the majestic landscapes of the karst plateau of Dong Van, the Ma Pi Leng pass to the breath-taking rice terraces of Hoang Su Phi, passing through the flowery valleys of Yen Minh, Su La, this terroir has something to seduce you all year round.

Ha Giang takes on particular colours during the end-of-year months when temperatures can sometimes drop to 0 degrees in December. You can greet the first snowfall around the fire by sharing moments of conviviality with hosts of the Hmong, Dao, and Tay ethnic groups... Sleeping in a local's home for one or two stays is certainly a unique experience.

Even if the harvest time has passed and you cannot admire the ripe rice, there are many other things to do to enjoy your trip to Ha Giang. Meeting ethnic groups in mountainous villages and markets, discovering its traditional crafts, and visiting the Quan Ba Gate of Heaven and the Hmong King’s palace… these are some of the things not to be missed in Ha Giang.

>> Read more: Visit Ha Giang in 3, 4 or 5 days, what to see and do?

2. Cao Bang

A new Eldorado for those who want to get off the beaten track, Cao Bang promises an adventure between grandiose limestone formations and lakes, rice fields and waterfalls, caves and historical remains. This region will amaze you with its raw beauty, ideal for a hike of one or a few days. When you say Cao Bang, you also say the Ban Gioc waterfalls, its natural wonder renowned for being one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Southeast Asia. If many visitors come there between June and September to admire the most beautiful Ban Gioc, the place will surprise you with another facet for the rest of the year, quieter and therefore more pleasant. Absolutely don't miss Non Nuoc Cao Bang to get lost in another global geopark listed among the 50 best places to visit around the world by the American site Insider.

For history lovers, go to Pac Po located in the heart of the peaceful valleys to learn a little more about a major period of Vietnam and its President Ho Chi Minh. Extend your stay with other stopovers in contact with nature towards the Nguom Ngao cave and Thang Hen Lake. Finally, visitors can meet the Tay, Nung and Dao ethnic families in an unforgettable warm atmosphere.

>> Read more: Visit Cao Bang in 2 or 3 days, what to do?

3. Halong Bay

More bearable compared to winter in the northern mountains, the weather in the plains allows for visits and excursions in town and at sea even with a certain number of foggy days. Do you want a getaway along the water far from the tourist crowds? Let yourself be tempted by Halong Bay which will captivate you with an almost unreal setting.

Escape aboard a junk in Halong Bay to enjoy the magical and unparalleled scenes of this world wonder under the mist. Please note that the period between November and December, also known as the low season for seaside stays in northern Vietnam, is undeniably favourable for excursions to Halong. If you are lucky, beautiful sunshine during the day is not unthinkable. Sunset in front of stunning landscapes, navigation through multifaceted formations, visiting marvellous caves, night in a boutique junk under a starry sky, a cruise in Halong Bay in winter is an experience to live without hesitation.

>> Read more: Visit Halong Bay, travel guide 2023

4. Hanoi

Spending the end of year holidays in an old town far from home is an unforgettable experience for many people. Celebrating Christmas and New Year in Hanoi is a trip full of discoveries. The Vietnamese capital in December is adorned with a particular beauty, both festive and romantic. Stroll along the streets of the old quarter to soak up its atmosphere mixing history, culture and food. Head to Saint-Joseph Cathedral for a moment of sharing with the locals, especially on the days around the Christmas holidays. The nearby French Quarter, full of charming colonial buildings as well as pretty boutiques, cafes and street canteens, is sure to tickle all your taste buds.

Not far away is Hoan Kiem Lake for a relaxing stroll around the heart of the thousand-year-old capital before watching a beautiful sunset on the historic Long Bien Bridge. Colourful street vendors filled with products, sweets and also flowers. Visible scenes unfold before the eyes of the traveller like a living theatre which never ceases to fascinate passengers.

>> Read more: 4 best Christmas and New Year outing ideas in Hanoi

5. Hoi An

This city of unparalleled charm is a stop not to be missed in Vietnam for any reason. In fact, its old quarter, rich in historical and cultural vestiges dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, invites you to take a real journey back in time. Listed as a UNESCO heritage site, Hoi An, which can be explored all year round, continues to seduce travellers from all over the world. Let yourself be carried away by old houses, temples and pagodas with traditional, Chinese and Japanese architecture that are perfectly preserved.

Beyond the hundreds of sparkling lanterns in front of the wooden houses in the old town, traditional villages and craft workshops located in its surroundings also call for memorable outings. Without forgetting its few pretty beaches not far away, perfect for an hour of relaxation in front of the blue. Those curious about history don't forget to explore the My Son sanctuary 50 km from Hoi An for a short lesson on the civilization of lost Champa.

>> Read more: Hoi An of Vietnam - Top 10 things to do in Hoi An

6. Phu Quoc

Pearl Island, Bali of Vietnam, a paradise for watching the sunset... all these names designate a unique destination, Phu Quoc Island. What could be better than ending your vacation in Vietnam in style with a break with your feet in the water at this unmissable place for a dream seaside stay?

The weather in Phu Quoc during the last months of the year is ideal for enjoying superb beaches under beautiful sun. Swimming, clam fishing, sunrise and sunset, hiking in the national park... everything is on the program to make you experience exceptional moments as a new year approaches. Why wait any longer?

Related articles:

>> Top 8 best destinations to visit in Vietnam for seniors

>> Adventure Vietnam: Top 7 most adventurous zip lines in Vietnam

>> Golf in Vietnam: Top 5 best golf destinations

>> Top 7 destinations to visit in Southern Vietnam

>> Best honeymoon destinations in Vietnam