Ly Son Island has been named Vietnam’s most searched summer destination by Agoda, highlighting its volcanic landscapes and natural charm. Ninh Binh and Mai Chau follow in popularity for their picturesque rice fields and local culture. Mang Den attracts visitors with its cool climate, while Tay Ninh offers spiritual and cultural experiences.
Ly Son Island, located around 30 kilometres off the coast of Quang Ngai Province, has been named Vietnam’s most searched summer destination by travel platform Agoda. The ranking is based on accommodation searches made between January 1 and April 30 for stays from June 1 to July 31, compared with the same period last year.
Covering approximately 10 square kilometres, Ly Son is one of Vietnam’s few volcanic islands. The island district consists of Dao Lon (Big Island), also known as Cu Lao Re, Dao Be (Small Island) or An Binh Island, and the uninhabited Mu Cu Islet. Accessible only by boat from Sa Ky Port, Ly Son has retained much of its natural charm and remains one of the country’s more secluded island destinations.
Formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, Ly Son is known for its dramatic geological landscape, volcanic craters, cave pagodas, garlic farms, and historical connection to the Hoang Sa Flotilla. The period from April to August is considered the ideal time to visit, offering sunny weather and calm seas for exploration.
Ninh Binh ranked second on Agoda’s list. Located around two hours from Hanoi, the destination is particularly popular between May and July, when the rice fields surrounding Tam Coc turn a vibrant golden colour. Visitors can experience the landscape on a two-hour boat journey along the Ngo Dong River, passing limestone karsts and rice paddies at the height of harvest season.
Another highlight is Hang Mua, often referred to as Vietnam’s miniature Great Wall due to its stone stairway leading to panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
Mai Chau, located approximately three hours from Hanoi, secured third place. Surrounded by mountains and home to several ethnic minority communities, the valley is known for its peaceful villages, terraced rice fields, and scenic cycling routes. Between May and June, the rice terraces take on golden hues, creating one of the most picturesque periods to visit.
The destination also offers opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine, including specialties such as com lam (bamboo-tube rice), grilled chicken, pork skewers, and locally grown vegetables.
Mang Den in Kon Tum Province ranked fourth. Situated at an altitude of around 1,200 metres in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, the destination is often referred to as the “second Da Lat” thanks to its cool climate, pine forests, and expansive valleys.
As temperatures rise across much of the country during summer, Mang Den continues to attract visitors seeking a cooler retreat. Among its most notable attractions is Khanh Lam Pagoda, located on a hilltop and reached by a climb of approximately 200 stone steps.
Completing the list is Tay Ninh Province, home to a combination of natural, cultural, and spiritual attractions. The province’s most prominent landmark is Ba Den Mountain, which rises 986 metres above sea level and is recognised as a national tourism site.
A major pilgrimage destination in southern Vietnam, Ba Den Mountain attracts thousands of visitors each year. Travellers can reach the summit by cable car while taking in historic pagodas, cultural sites, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 