From emerald-green bays and misty mountains to vibrant street life, Vietnam is pure magic for your camera.
Every frame tells a story, from ancient temples and colorful markets to peaceful rivers and golden sunsets on the bay. Here’s your guide to the most photogenic spots and how to make your shots shine.
Hanoi Highlights
Old Quarter
Buzzing scooters, lantern-lit cafés, and colorful shopfronts - Hanoi’s Old Quarter is full of life. Every turn feels like a vintage postcard.
Pro tip: Capture the chaos - bikes, food stalls, and street vendors make for great motion shots.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A symbol of Vietnam’s history and pride, this grand marble structure stands tall against Ba Dinh Square.
Pro tip: Frame it with the flags and greenery around for a sense of scale and symmetry.
One-Pillar Pagoda
Tiny but iconic, this temple rising from a lotus pond is one of Hanoi’s most serene sights.
Pro tip: Shoot from across the pond to capture its full reflection and unique shape.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral & Hoan Kiem Lake
Gothic charm meets peaceful lake views - perfect for blending old-world elegance with daily life.
Pro tip: Capture locals walking, reading, or boating near the lake to show the city’s calm side.
Halong Bay Cruise
Towering limestone islands rise from emerald waters - no filter needed.
Pro tip: Capture wide panoramic shots from the deck and close-ups of passing boats for contrast.
Quick Tips for Great Photos
- Play with reflections: Vietnam’s lakes, rivers, and bays are perfect mirrors for your shots.
- Include people: Locals, fishermen, or travelers add life and scale to landscapes.
- Try motion: Boats gliding, lanterns swaying, or scooters zipping by making dynamic frames.
- Colors matter: Vietnam is rich in greens, golds, and reds!
- Stay curious: Some of the best photos happen between attractions like a street-side coffee stall or kids playing by the lake.