From unique craft villages of the North to colorful floating markets of the Mekong Delta, every corner of Vietnam offers a unique visual story waiting to be captured. More than just sightseeing, a Vietnam photography tour is also an immersive way to experience the country's essence.

In this article, we present the Top 20 Best Destinations for a Vietnam Photography Tour, featuring diverse locations that highlight Vietnam’s beauty, culture, and people. Whether you’re passionate about landscape photography, street scenes, or capturing traditional ways of life, these destinations will inspire and elevate your photography journey.
 

Top 20 Best Destinations for a Vietnam Photography Tour

#1 Quang Phu Cau village in Hanoi

Quang Phu Cau is a small village on the outskirts of Hanoi, famous for its incense-making tradition. When you arrive, you will see hundreds of colorful incense bundles, drying under the sun. The bright reds, yellows, and pinks create a surreal scene that looks like an artist’s palette. This village is a dream for photographers who love vibrant colors and unique cultural scenes.

To get the best shots, visit in the late morning when the incense sticks are fully displayed under natural light. You can also capture the local artisans at work, carefully bundling and drying the sticks. The best part is that people here are friendly and used to photographers, so you can take your time composing the perfect shot. Entrance to the village is 50.000 VND, but some locals may charge a small fee if you want to take close-up photos of their work.
 

#2 Thu Sy Fish Trap Craft Village and Ban Yen Nhan Soy Sauce Making Village in Hung Yen

Hung Yen province has two incredible photography spots: Thu Sy Fish Trap Craft Village and Ban Soy Yen Nhan. Thu Sy is known for its traditional fish traps, which are made from bamboo and used by local fishermen. Walking through the village, you will see hundreds of these oval-shaped traps with pointed ends held together in bundles, forming intricate patterns that make for stunning photographs.

A short drive away, Ban Yen Nhan offers a completely different scene. This village is famous for its traditional soy sauce production, a craft that has been passed down for generations. Large ceramic jars filled with fermenting soybeans are neatly arranged in open courtyards, creating a visually striking setting. The golden hues of the soy sauce contrast beautifully with the aged brick walls and wooden structures, making this a great spot for capturing the essence of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

Photographers who enjoy capturing craftsmanship and rural landscapes will love these locations. The best time to visit is early in the morning when the light is soft and the villagers are active. Both places require little to no entrance fee, but supporting local artisans by purchasing a fish trap or a bottle of fermented soy sauce is always appreciated.
 

#3 Mua Cave, Tam Coc in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is often called “Halong Bay on land,” and for good reason. Mua Cave is one of the best spots in the region to get a breathtaking panoramic view of the karst mountains and winding rivers. After climbing the 500 stone steps to the peak, you will be rewarded with an incredible landscape that looks like something out of a fantasy movie. The best time to shoot is at sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the dramatic scenery.

Tam Coc, just a short distance away, offers a different perspective of Ninh Binh’s beauty. Here, you can take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through towering limestone cliffs and golden rice fields. The reflections on the water, combined with the slow movement of the boats, create mesmerizing compositions. This is one of the best places in Vietnam for landscape photography.

The entrance fee for Mua Cave is around 100,000 VND per person, while a Tam Coc boat ride costs about 250,000 VND per person.
 

#4 Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay in Quang Ninh

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most famous landmarks, and for a good reason. The bay is filled with thousands of limestone islands, rising dramatically from emerald waters. No matter where you point your camera, you will find a picture-perfect scene. The best way to capture the bay is by taking a cruise, which allows you to photograph the islands from different angles and at different times of the day.

Bai Tu Long Bay, just to the northeast of Ha Long Bay, offers a more peaceful and less crowded alternative. The scenery is just as breathtaking, but with fewer boats and tourists in the background. If you want to capture Ha Long’s beauty without the usual crowds, Bai Tu Long is the perfect spot.

Most overnight cruises cost between 2,000,000 to 4,000,000 VND per person, depending on the level of luxury. Day cruises are cheaper, starting at around 500,000 VND per person.
 

#5 Lan Ha Bay in Hai Phong

Lan Ha Bay is often overlooked in favor of Ha Long Bay, but it is just as stunning. Located near Cat Ba Island, this bay features towering limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and floating fishing villages. If you love seascapes, this is the place to be. The water is crystal clear, and the best way to photograph the bay is by kayaking through its lagoons or taking a boat trip around the islands.

The local fishing villages add another layer of interest to your photos. You can capture fishermen at work, colorful floating houses, and boats surrounded by towering rock formations. Sunset is the best time to shoot, as the golden light makes the scenery even more magical.

A boat tour in Lan Ha Bay costs around 300,000 to 600,000 VND per person, depending on the route and duration.
 

#6 Hoang Su Phi in Ha Giang

Hoang Su Phi is one of the most spectacular places in Vietnam for landscape photography. Located in Ha Giang province, this region is famous for its breathtaking terraced rice fields that stretch across the mountains. During the rice harvest season (September to October), the terraces glow in shades of gold and green, creating a mesmerizing sight.

Photographers love Hoang Su Phi for its untouched beauty and the presence of ethnic minority groups such as the Dao, Tay, and H'Mong. Villages like Ban Phung and Nam Ty are excellent spots to capture both the landscapes and daily life of the locals. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to photograph the terraces, as the soft golden light enhances the layers of the fields. Entrance to the area is free, but you may need to pay a small fee to visit some villages.
 

#7 Dong Van, Meo Vac in Ha Giang

Dong Van and Meo Vac are two of the most photogenic locations in Ha Giang, offering rugged mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and winding roads that hug limestone cliffs. The Ma Pi Leng Pass, often called the most beautiful pass in Vietnam, is a must-visit for photographers. From the viewpoint, you can capture the Nho Que River as it snakes through the canyon below, creating a breathtaking contrast between the emerald water and the gray limestone mountains.

The area is also rich in cultural photography opportunities. The Sunday market in Dong Van town is a vibrant place where ethnic minority groups gather in their traditional clothing to trade goods. Meo Vac’s markets are equally colorful, with a mix of H'Mong, Dao, and Tay people. There is no entrance fee to visit these locations, but hiring a local guide can help you find hidden photography spots.
 

#8 Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang

Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam. Located on the border between Vietnam and China, the waterfall cascades down in multiple tiers, surrounded by lush greenery and towering karst mountains. It is particularly stunning during the rainy season (June to September), when the water flow is at its strongest.

Photographers can capture the waterfall from different angles, either from the riverbank or by taking a bamboo raft closer to the falls. Nearby, you can visit the Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda, which offers a panoramic view of the entire area. The entrance fee to Ban Gioc Waterfall is about 45,000 VND per person, and the bamboo raft ride costs around 50,000 VND per person.
 

#9 Ba Be Lake in Bac Kan

Ba Be Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, located in Bac Kan province. This peaceful and scenic destination is perfect for photographers looking to capture serene landscapes. Surrounded by limestone mountains and dense forests, the lake offers stunning reflections and misty morning views.

A boat trip on Ba Be Lake is the best way to explore and photograph its beauty. You can visit the An Ma Temple, explore the mysterious Puong Cave, or photograph the ethnic Tay villages along the lake. The best time for photography is early in the morning when the mist hovers over the water. Entrance to Ba Be National Park is around 45,000 VND per person, and boat rentals start at 200,000 VND.
 

#10 Sapa and Bac Ha in Lao Cai

Sapa is one of the most famous mountain destinations in Vietnam, known for its rolling rice terraces, misty landscapes, and diverse ethnic communities. The Muong Hoa Valley, home to the H’Mong and Dao people, offers endless photography opportunities with its stunning fields and traditional wooden houses. Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina, provides an incredible panoramic view of the region.

Bac Ha, located about 70 km from Sapa, is known for its vibrant ethnic markets. The Bac Ha Sunday Market is one of the most colorful markets in Vietnam, where local tribes such as the Flower H’Mong, Tay, and Nung come to trade livestock, handmade crafts, and textiles. It’s a perfect place for portrait photography, capturing the intricate clothing and daily interactions of the locals. There is no entrance fee to visit Sapa’s rice terraces, but Fansipan’s cable car ride costs around 800,000 VND per person.
 

#11 Mu Cang Chai in Yen Bai

Mu Cang Chai is a paradise for photographers who love terraced rice fields. Located in Yen Bai province, this area is known for some of the most impressive rice terraces in Vietnam. During harvest season (September to October), the hills turn into layers of golden fields, making it one of the best times to visit.

Famous spots for photography include La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, and Mam Xoi Hill. These locations offer breathtaking views of the curved terraces, especially at sunrise and sunset. Drones are perfect for capturing the patterns of the fields, but even ground-level shots provide stunning compositions. Entrance is free, but you might need to pay a small fee to enter certain private lands for photography.
 

#12 Long Coc Hills Tea in Phu Tho

Long Coc in Phu Tho is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful tea plantations. The rolling green tea hills look like a sea of soft waves stretching across the landscape. This location is particularly stunning during sunrise when the morning mist covers the valleys, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

Photographers can explore the tea fields and capture workers in traditional conical hats as they harvest fresh tea leaves. The contrast between the bright green tea plants and the golden morning light makes for incredible shots. There is no entrance fee to visit Long Coc, but hiring a local guide can help you find the best vantage points for photography.
 

#13 Tra Nhieu Village in Hoi An

Tra Nhieu is a peaceful riverside village in Duy Vinh Commune, located along the Thu Bon River, just 3 km southeast of Hoi An. A boat ride from Hoi An to Tra Nhieu offers scenic views of the river and surrounding countryside.

The village is known for its rich history and traditional handicrafts, including farming, fishing, poultry and livestock breeding, and sleeping mat weaving. Visitors can explore these local industries and even take part in hands-on experiences. One of the highlights is joining local fishermen on a boat to learn traditional fishing techniques, such as casting nets and catching fish, shrimp, and crabs. This immersive experience provides fantastic opportunities for cultural photography and a deeper appreciation of rural life in Vietnam. Entrance is free, but hiring a boat or joining a guided tour enhances the experience.
 

#14 Golden Bridge in Danang

The Golden Bridge is one of Vietnam’s most iconic landmarks, located at Ba Na Hills in Da Nang. The bridge is held up by two massive stone hands emerging from the mountain, creating a surreal and breathtaking scene that attracts photographers from all over the world.

The best time to capture the bridge is early in the morning when the mist covers the hills, adding a mystical effect to the photos. Sunset is another great time, as the golden light enhances the bridge’s unique design. A cable car ride to Ba Na Hills costs around 850,000 VND per person, which includes access to the bridge.
 

#15 Ru Cha Forest in Hue

Ru Cha is a unique mangrove forest located on the Tam Giang Lagoon near Hue. It is known for its dense, twisted mangrove trees and stunning seasonal colors. During autumn (September to November), the leaves turn a vibrant yellow, creating an incredible contrast with the dark tree trunks and the calm water reflections.

The best way to explore Ru Cha is by boat, allowing you to glide through the forest and capture stunning compositions of light and shadow filtering through the trees. A viewing tower in the area offers panoramic shots of the lagoon. There is no entrance fee, but renting a boat costs around 100,000 VND per trip.
 

#16 Phan Rang in Ninh Thuan

The area around Phan Rang in Ninh Thuan province is a treasure trove for photographers.

Vinh Hy Bay

Vinh Hy Bay is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful coastal areas, featuring crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and lush green mountains. The bay offers fantastic aerial photography opportunities, especially if you can capture the contrast between the deep blue sea and the rugged coastline. The best time for photography is early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is softer. Boat tours are available, allowing for closer shots of the bay’s unique rock formations.

Bau Truc Pottery Village

Bau Truc is one of the oldest pottery villages in Southeast Asia, where the Cham people have been making traditional ceramics for centuries. The village is a great place for cultural photography, with artisans shaping clay by hand and using ancient firing techniques. The vibrant colors of the pottery, combined with the earthy tones of the village, create stunning compositions.

Nam Cuong Sand Dunes

Nam Cuong is a hidden gem among Vietnam’s sand dunes, located near Phan Rang. Unlike the more famous dunes in Mui Ne, Nam Cuong is less crowded, allowing for more creative photography opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting, with long shadows creating beautiful textures in the sand.

Ninh Hai Salt Field

The Ninh Hai Salt Field is a stunning location, especially during sunrise when workers harvest the salt under golden light. The geometric patterns of the salt pools, combined with the reflections of the sky, create a surreal landscape. The best time to visit is between April and August when salt production is in full swing.

An Hoa Sheep Farm

An Hoa Sheep Farm is a picturesque rural destination where flocks of sheep roam freely across golden grasslands. The farm is perfect for capturing pastoral scenes, with rolling hills and blue skies providing a beautiful backdrop. Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photography, creating a soft, dreamy atmosphere. Entrance fees vary but are usually around 20,000 VND per person.
 

#17 Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh

The Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh is the spiritual center of Caodaism, a unique Vietnamese religion that blends Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity. Located about 90 km from Ho Chi Minh City, this temple is a masterpiece of architecture and symbolism.

Its vibrant façade, decorated with dragons, saints, and the all-seeing Divine Eye, is a visual spectacle. Inside, the hall is filled with colorful pillars, detailed murals, and a grand altar. The best time to visit is during the noon prayer ceremony when hundreds of devotees, dressed in white robes, gather in perfect symmetry, creating a mesmerizing scene. This moment is perfect for photography, capturing the temple’s spiritual and artistic essence. Entrance is free, but visitors should dress modestly.
 

#18 Wat Pisesaram Temple in Tra Vinh

Tra Vinh is home to a significant Khmer population, and Wat Pisesaram is one of its most impressive Khmer temples. This Buddhist temple stands out with its golden stupa, intricate carvings, and colorful decorations. It is a peaceful place, surrounded by tall trees and statues of mythical creatures.

The best shots here include the ornate temple gate, the golden pagoda under sunlight, and monks going about their daily routines. Visiting during a Khmer festival, such as Chol Chnam Thmay (Khmer New Year), will add even more cultural richness to your photos. Entrance is free, but visitors should show respect by covering their shoulders and knees.
 

#19 Som Rong Pagoda in Soc Trang

Som Rong Pagoda is one of the most beautiful Khmer temples in Soc Trang. Its modern stupa, built in a futuristic style, contrasts with the traditional temple architecture. The highlight is the giant reclining Buddha statue, one of the largest in Vietnam, measuring over 60 meters long.

The best time to photograph the pagoda is early morning or late afternoon when the soft sunlight enhances its golden details. If you want to capture local culture, visit during Buddhist ceremonies when monks chant and offer prayers. The pagoda is free to visit, and donations are appreciated.
 

#20 Floating Markets in the Mekong Delta

The floating markets of the Mekong Delta are a must-visit for photographers looking to capture the essence of river life in Vietnam. Cai Rang in Can Tho is the most famous, but Phong Dien, Long Xuyen, and Tra On markets offer more authentic experiences with fewer tourists.

At dawn, hundreds of wooden boats gather, selling tropical fruits, vegetables, and local specialties. Vendors hang samples of their goods on tall poles, creating a colorful display. The energy of the market, with boats navigating the river and people shouting out their wares, makes for dynamic and vibrant photography.

For the best shots, hire a boat early in the morning when the market is most active. The markets are free to visit, but renting a small boat costs around 500,000 VND.

Which tour agency is best for Vietnam?

When planning a photography tour in Vietnam, choosing the right travel agency can make a huge difference. Opting for a local travel agency offers several advantages, especially when it comes to cost, authenticity, and access to hidden gems.

• Our guides are not just tour leaders; they are locals with deep knowledge of Vietnam’s landscapes, culture, and best photography locations.
• Whether you want to capture golden rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai, the colorful floating markets of the Mekong Delta, or the ethnic minority villages in Ha Giang, we tailor the trip to your interests.
• We cut out unnecessary middlemen, ensuring you get the best experience at the best price.
• We take you beyond the typical tourist trails to authentic, photogenic places rarely visited by foreigners.
• From transportation and accommodation to securing permits for drone photography, we handle everything, allowing you to focus on capturing stunning images.
   

Conclusion

By choosing the right destinations and traveling with local experts, you’ll have access to breathtaking scenes that go beyond typical tourist experiences. Ready to embark on the ultimate photography adventure? Book a customized tour with Vietnam Original Travel and let us guide you through the Top 20 Best Destinations for a Vietnam Photography Tour!

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