10 best places for weekend getaway from Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

26 May 2026Updated last time

Weekend Getaway Overview from Ho Chi Minh City

This trip is designed for travelers looking to escape Ho Chi Minh City for a refreshing weekend filled with nature, beaches, culture, and a little adventure. You can start with the cool highlands of Dalat for a relaxing change of scenery, then head to Vung Tau or Ho Tram for easy coastal breaks with fresh seafood and ocean views. For something more active and scenic, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne offer dramatic sand dunes, windswept beaches, and water sports that are ideal for a short but memorable escape. If you want to reconnect with nature, Can Gio Mangrove Forest provides a unique eco-adventure close to the city, while Cai Rang Floating Market gives you an authentic taste of life in the Mekong Delta. For travelers seeking quieter and more special experiences, Con Dao Islands and Phu Quoc Island deliver pristine beaches, clear waters, and a peaceful island atmosphere. Mui Dinh Lighthouse adds a rugged, picturesque stop for photography and coastal exploration. Together, these destinations create a balanced weekend itinerary that combines relaxation, local culture, outdoor activities, and scenic beauty, making it easy to choose the perfect getaway based on your mood and travel style.


Recommended Activities

  • Dalat is a charming and romantic highland city in Vietnam. Known as the 'City of Eternal Spring,' it offers a cool climate, gorgeous landscapes, and beautiful French colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the stunning Xuan Huong Lake, visit colorful flower gardens, enjoy adventurous activities like hiking and canyoning, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
  • Vung Tau is a popular coastal getaway near Ho Chi Minh City. With its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and vibrant atmosphere, it's an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend trip. Visitors can soak up the sun on Back Beach or Front Beach, explore the historic Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda, visit the famous Jesus Christ Statue on Mount Nho, and enjoy panoramic views from the Vung Tau lighthouse.
  • Phan Thiet is a coastal city renowned for its pristine beaches, sand dunes, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing, explore the vibrant fishing village of Mui Ne, witness the mesmerizing Fairy Stream and Red Sand Dunes, and savor fresh seafood delicacies.
  • Mui Ne is a famous beach resort town with stunning sand dunes and clear blue waters. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts offering activities like kiteboarding, windsurfing, and sandboarding. Visitors can also explore the Fairy Stream, a unique natural formation with colorful landscapes, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
  • 5

    Can Gio Mangrove Forest

    Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located near Ho Chi Minh City. It's an ecological treasure offering a unique experience in nature. Visitors can take boat tours through the dense mangrove forest, spot wildlife like monkeys and birds, visit the Can Gio Museum, and enjoy bird-watching at the Vam Sat Eco-Tourism Zone.
  • 6

    Con Dao Islands

    Con Dao Islands are a hidden gem in Vietnam, known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched natural beauty. They offer a serene and tranquil getaway, with opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the diverse marine life. Visitors can also visit historical landmarks like the Con Dao Prison, learn about the islands' history, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
  • 7

    Ho Tram Beach

    Ho Tram Beach is a beautiful and peaceful beach destination located near Ho Chi Minh City. With its pristine sandy shores and clear waters, it offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Visitors can relax on the beach, enjoy water activities like swimming and sunbathing, explore the nearby fishing villages, and savor delicious seafood dishes.
  • 8

    Cai Rang Floating Market

    Cai Rang Floating Market is the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta region and offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can witness local traders selling fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their boats. Taking a boat tour through the bustling market, enjoying traditional Vietnamese dishes, and interacting with friendly vendors are some of the highlights of this vibrant attraction.
  • 9

    Mui Dinh Lighthouse

    Mui Dinh Lighthouse is a picturesque landmark situated in Phan Rang-Thap Cham, overlooking the stunning coastal scenery. Visitors can climb up the lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the turquoise sea and rocky cliffs. It's a great spot for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • 10

    Phu Quoc Island

    Phu Quoc Island is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Visitors can unwind on the white sandy beaches, go snorkeling or diving to explore vibrant coral reefs, hike through the dense Phu Quoc National Park, visit unique attractions like the Dinh Cau Night Market, and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies. With its serene atmosphere and stunning scenery, Phu Quoc Island is the ideal destination for a tranquil and rejuvenating getaway.

Restaurants

  • Picture for DaLat Nights Cafe - Đống Đa
    Trending now

    DaLat Nights Cafe - Đống Đa

    4 Đường Đống Đa, Phường 3, Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng 66000, Вьетнам
    This café is getting buzz for its romantic night city view and glass-front seating, and Foody reviews frame it as a place people go specifically for the atmosphere and photo-worthy experience. The listing also shows strong community activity, which supports that it is actively trending among visitors to Da Lat right now.
    4.1
  • Picture for Camellia Coffee & Restaurant
    Trending now

    Camellia Coffee & Restaurant

    75 Nguyễn Thị Định, Tran Trung, Bình Đại, Vĩnh Long, Vietnam
    Camellia is being pushed as a fresh, upscale dining spot with a wide menu and a location that makes it easy to visit on a Vung Tau weekend trip. Foody’s listing explicitly says it aims to create a “new wave” for young diners, which suggests strong early hype rather than classic-established status.
    4.8
  • Picture for Hẻm Quán
    99 Vĩnh Khánh, Phường 10, Quận 4, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
    Hẻm Quán is a hidden gem in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, offering a unique dining experience in a narrow alleyway. Indulge in authentic Vietnamese street food while immersing yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere.
  • Picture for Binh Quoi Village

    Binh Quoi Village

    Bình Quới Tourist Village, Phường 28, Bình Thạnh, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
    Binh Quoi Village is a fascinating riverside dining destination located in Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy a buffet-style feast featuring traditional Vietnamese dishes served in a rustic and scenic setting, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waterways.
  • Picture for Secret Garden Restaurant

    Secret Garden Restaurant

    158 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
    Located on a rooftop in Ho Chi Minh City, Secret Garden offers a delightful escape from the busy streets. Enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a hidden oasis adorned with lush plants and a charming ambiance.
  • Picture for Tung Garden
    Tung Garden is a unique floating restaurant located on the Mekong Delta, near Can Tho. Feast on delicious Vietnamese seafood while dining on a traditional sampan boat, cruising along the picturesque river.
  • Picture for Tree House Restaurant

    Tree House Restaurant

    28 Đường Đường Khởi Nghĩa Bắc Sơn, Phường 10, Thành phố Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng, Vietnam
    Nestled amidst the lush forests of Da Lat, the Tree House Restaurant offers an enchanting dining experience. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine while perched up in treetop dining pods, surrounded by nature's beauty.
  • Picture for Bai Dai Floating Restaurant

    Bai Dai Floating Restaurant

    Bãi Dài, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang, Vietnam
    Set on a floating platform in the middle of the sea, Bai Dai Floating Restaurant is a unique and memorable dining experience in Phu Quoc Island. Feast on delectable seafood dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the turquoise waters.
  • Picture for Cuc Gach Quan

    Cuc Gach Quan

    10 Đặng Tất, Phường Tân Định, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
    Located in an old French villa in Ho Chi Minh City, Cuc Gach Quan offers a rustic and charming atmosphere. Delight in traditional Vietnamese dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms.
  • Picture for Bun Cha Huong Lien

    Bun Cha Huong Lien

    24 P. Lê Văn Hưu, Phan Chu Trinh, Hai Bà Trưng, Hà Nội, Vietnam
    Visit Bun Cha Huong Lien, the restaurant where former U.S. President Barack Obama enjoyed a meal during his visit to Vietnam. Taste the famous dish, Bun Cha, and experience a piece of history in Hanoi.

Hotels

  • Hang Nga Guesthouse

    03 Đ. Huỳnh Thúc Kháng, Phường 4, Thành phố Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng 66115, Vietnam

    Hang Nga Guesthouse, also known as the 'Crazy House,' is a unique and unconventional hotel in Dalat. With its whimsical and surreal architecture, staying here is like stepping into a fairy tale.
  • The Imperial Hotel

    159 Thùy Vân, Phường Thắng Tam, Thành phố Vũng Tầu, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu, Vietnam

    The Imperial Hotel is a historic and grand hotel in Vung Tau, offering a blend of colonial charm and modern amenities. Experience luxury and elegance while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the sea.
  • Princess d'An Nam Resort & Spa

    Princess d'An Nam Resort & Spa is an exquisite beachfront resort in Ke Ga, featuring luxurious villas and a tranquil ambiance. Experience ultimate relaxation and indulge in world-class amenities and services.
  • Six Senses Con Dao

    PJ2M+89J Dat Doc Beach, Đường Cỏ Ống Town, Côn Đảo, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu 74000, Vietnam

    Located on the pristine Con Dao Islands, Six Senses Con Dao offers a luxurious and eco-friendly hideaway. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, exceptional spa experiences, and impeccable hospitality.
  • Phu Quoc Eco Beach Resort

    Tổ 3, Ông Lang, Phú Quốc, Kiên Giang 922200, Vietnam

    Phu Quoc Eco Beach Resort is a secluded eco-resort on Phu Quoc Island, perfect for those seeking a sustainable and rejuvenating retreat. Stay in rustic bungalows, relax on the beach, and immerse yourself in nature.
  • Azerai La Residence

    5 Lê Lợi, Street, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế 530000, Vietnam

    Azerai La Residence is a charming boutique hotel in Hue, housed in a colonial mansion. Experience a blend of French elegance and Vietnamese hospitality while exploring the rich history and culture of the city.

Local Events & Happenings

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    Gondwana

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    Gondwana en Concierto
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    Fitz and The Tantrums

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    Fitz And The Tantrums en concierto
  • Picture for Maggie Rose: No One Gets Out Alive Tour

    Maggie Rose: No One Gets Out Alive Tour

    1884 Lounge in Memphis (1988.17 mi)29 Jun 2024
    Minglewood Hall is a cashless venue. This event is general admission standing.
  • Picture for Lil Man J

    Lil Man J

    1884 Lounge in Memphis (1988.17 mi)26 Jul 2024
    Minglewood Hall is a cashless venue. This event is general admission standing.
  • Picture for Peso Peso

    Peso Peso

    1884 Lounge in Memphis (1988.17 mi)27 Jul 2024
    Minglewood Hall is a cashless venue. This event is general admission standing
  • Picture for Steve Hofstetter

    Steve Hofstetter

    1884 Lounge in Memphis (1988.17 mi)30 Jul 2024
    Minglewood Hall is a cashless venue. This event is reserved seating.
  • Picture for Mountain Grass Unit Summer Tour

    Mountain Grass Unit Summer Tour

    1884 Lounge in Memphis (1988.17 mi)5 Aug 2024
    Minglewood Hall is a cashless venue. This event is general admission standing.

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Help Wanted! Weekend (Beachy) Trip from HCMC??

    /r/VietNam

    More looking for beach town vibe, good food, chill etc etc Share ... Phan Thiet is a ~3 hour drive away and a beach town. Mui Ne is right there with beaches too and has the re...

  • Is 2 weeks in Ho Chi Minh too much?

    /r/VietNam

    Check out Phan Thiet market. Also heap of sand dune in Mui ne, but you might get sun burn( I do) lol. ... I think you shouldn't been 1 week in Phu Quoc cuz it is a small ...

  • Where to stay to break up a trip from Da Nang to HCMC?

    /r/VietNam

    Vung Tau = dirty sexpats ... Da lat will always get my recommendation. ... Quy Nhon--Clean, developed, and few international brands are there. ... Are you traveling by motorbi...

  • HO CHI MINH

    /r/VietNam

    You can always take the river boat to Vung Tau for the day its a nice ride down the Saigon river and you spend a day eating good food and walking the beach More replies ... if...

  • Vung Tau or Phu Quoc for 6 Days of Relaxation & Water Adventures from HCMC? Hey !

    /r/VietNam

    I'm planning a 6-day, 5-night relaxing ... Tau and Phu Quoc. I'm looking for a mix of chilling on the beach and some fun water activities. ... Relaxation: Beautiful ...

  • Recommendations for where to go after Ho Chi Minh

    /r/VietNam

    I was thinking Phu Quoc but something relaxing to end the trip. ... Not a nightlife person. Da Nang didn't really appeal to me even though im a city and beach girl. I&#x2...

  • Skip Mi N!!!!

    /r/VietNam

    i went to Phan Thiet Mui Ne and it was pretty diappointing too... Stayed at a resort and the area was filled with Russian residents. Which is fine but i'm in vietnam, not...

  • What else to do / where else to go in/near Ho Chi Minh

    /r/VietNam

    Or take the boat to Vung Tau for the day, have lunch near the beach and take the boat back again. (Some of the route is just HCMC city skyline and not exciting but some of it ...

  • Where to spend more time: Saigon or Hanoi?

    /r/VietNam

    Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hue- Hoi An - Da nang / HCMC - Mekong - Vung Tau - Phu Quoc - Mui Ne - Da Lat I lived in Saigon 2 years but traveled up north. I found the North more inte...

  • Which city/town should I go to? I don't like saigon

    /r/VietNam

    Avoid Dalat as well since it is not gonna be sunny in the Fall. Your best bet is Mui Ne, Phu Quoc, Vinh Hy, Binh Hung or Binh Ba Island (I don't know if it is still open ...

  • Beach destination recommendation apart from Phu Quoc

    /r/VietNam

    I am keen to visit beach destination as well but we have already visited phu quoc. Could you guys suggest me beautiful beach destination as well. ... If you are looking for mo...

  • Please advise on the trip: HCM, Dalat, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Hoi An

    /r/VietNam

    As my suggestion, you can spend one week in HCMC, then go to Da Lat for 2-3 days, then go to Nha Trang for 3-4 days. Book a train to Hue, stay for 2 nights, then go to Da Nang...

  • 8 days in Vietnam. Apart from Saigon, where else would you go?

    /r/VietNam

    Try the Mekong Delta, you can take a guide. Among others: Chau Doc, Ben Tree or Can Tho. ... You will love Da Lt. ... Mui Ne is great, but the food is disappointing. Spent 2 w...

  • Need some recommendation please !

    /r/VietNam

    4 days is fine in Saigon. But you can take private car or sleeper bus to Vung Tau or Phan Thiet for half or one day.

  • 8 days in HCMC Is it too much? Looking for side-trip recommendations!

    /r/VietNam

    8 days is indeed too long for HCMC. Can Tho is a good option, maybe 2 days. Perhaps a shit idea, but theres also Vung Tau for a change of air

  • Is Vung Tau Worth It?

    /r/VietNam

    But honestly i don't think vung tau is a good beach destination. The ferry works well to saigon though. Take a flight to con dao if you want restful beach ... I spent a l...

  • Vung Tau worth a day trip?

    /r/saigon

    Been to Vung Tau once, wasn't really impressed, it's OK but very sleepy. I'm in Mui Ne at the moment and it has a much more casual "holiday" beachside town vibe...