5 romantic getaways in Vietnam for fall

The destinations have been selected through a combination of reader surveys from those who booked rooms on the Netherlands-based booking application and insights from its own travel experts.

Booking.com did the survey in August-September, polling people who had travel plans within the next two months. The criteria for their selection included landscapes, weather conditions and access by public transport.

1. Hanoi

In autumn, Hanoi becomes a city that enchants the senses. It is a place where you'll find yourself immersed in the fragrant aura of flowers, with street vendors selling vibrant blooms along the streets.

A woman flower vendor cycles past a ceramic wall in Hanoi. Photo by Nguyen Phuc Thanh

Throughout autumn streets like Phan Dinh Phung, Quan Thanh and Quang Trung and those around the West Lake enjoy the ethereal charm of white milk flowers.

Visitors are invited to explore the old quarter, where hidden gems await in every alley. They may chance upon charming cafes and delightful sidewalk eateries that offer the chance to enjoy young green rice and sweet honey donuts in the bracing autumn air.

Recommended stay: A mere two-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake is the May De Ville Luxury Hotel & Spa offering modern accommodation. This hotel is near renowned attractions like the Ngoc Son Temple, Opera House and St. Joseph's Cathedral.

2. Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay to the south of Cat Ba Island off Hai Phong is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery adorning most of its islands. In 2020 it was recognized as one of the world's most beautiful bays by the club of the same name.

Lan Ha Bay seen from above. Photo by Pham Huy Trung

For those looking for an unspoiled destination with stunning landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere, and for travelers who have previously explored Ha Long Bay and are in search of a fresh and captivating experience, Lan Ha Bay is the perfect choice.

Recommended stay: Consider the Lan Ha Floating Homestay in Cat Ba, which boasts sea views, gardens, a bar, and a private beach. It is also conveniently close to attractions like Monkey Island and Ben Beo Port.

3. Ha Giang

During autumn, the Dong Van Plateau in Ha Giang Province becomes a tapestry of white and pink-purple buckwheat flowers. Many travelers opt to explore Ha Giang by motorbike to fully immerse themselves in the unique beauty of this region at the end of the year.

Buckwheat flowers grace Ha Giang's mountain slopes as the year draws to a close. Photo courtesy of the Ha Giang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism

Buckwheat holds great importance for locals, and is usually cultivated after the summer-autumn rice crop is harvested. Travelers embarking on an autumn journey will not only be treated to the vibrant colors of the flowers but also have the opportunity to sample wine and cakes made from buckwheat seeds.

Recommended stay: Panhou Retreat in Hoang Su Phi is a resort featuring bungalows nestled beside a lake and garden. Visitors can go on trekking tours with local guides, partake in cooking classes, take herbal baths, and enjoy relaxing massages.

4. Da Lat

Da Lat is a year-round destination for travelers, but in the fall it transforms into a haven of golden wild sunflowers. As soon as you arrive in Bao Loc City, 121 km before Da Lat, the sight of wild sunflowers adorning the misty pine hills will captivate you.

The Wooden Bridge in Da Lat is a renowned spot for photography enthusiasts. Photo by Pham Kim Nhan

With a consistently cool climate and chilly evenings, Da Lat is an ideal escape for those seeking respite from the heat of the plains.

Recommended stay: The Da Lat Edensee Lake Resort & Spa is just 10 kilometers from the city center and 30 kilometers from Lien Khuong Airport. Overlooking Tuyen Lam Lake, it provides a serene atmosphere amid stunning natural surroundings.

5. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island, is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and old fishing villages. The best time to visit Phu Quoc is October-November, when it is at its most beautiful.

Phu Quoc's long white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue waters are a draw for both local and international tourists. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

Travelers to Phu Quoc are spoiled for choice with activities like swimming, kayaking, scuba diving to explore coral reefs, cycling through scenic landscapes, touring pepper plantations, visiting traditional fish sauce production facilities, and witnessing pearl farming.

Recommended stay: The Ocean Bay Phu Quoc Resort & Spa is a five-star beachfront resort with a prime location. It is close to popular attractions like Ong Lang Beach and Sung Hung Pagoda.