“Capturing Vietnam: A Photographer’s Guide to the Most Instagrammable Spots” is a comprehensive guidebook for photography enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning landscapes, bustling cities, and vibrant culture of Vietnam. This guide features the most picturesque and Instagram-worthy locations across the country, including hidden gems and popular tourist attractions. 

Whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer, this book offers valuable tips and tricks for capturing the essence of Vietnam through your lens. With stunning photographs and insightful commentary, “Capturing Vietnam” is the ultimate resource for anyone seeking to document their travels in this beautiful country.

15 Instagram worthy places in Vietnam

These are the 15 most instagrammable places in Vietnam

Train Street, Hanoi

Train Street in Hanoi, Vietnam is a narrow street with an active train track running through it. It has become a popular tourist spot for its unique photo opportunities. However, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings as the street can get crowded, and trains can appear suddenly. 

Train Street also offers cafes, shops, and street vendors selling souvenirs. It is a must-visit destination in Hanoi for a memorable experience, but safety should be a top priority.

Lotte Tower, Hanoi

Lotte Tower is a 65-story skyscraper in Hanoi, Vietnam, offering panoramic views of the city. It features a department store, movie theater, ice rink, and an observation deck, Lotte Observation Deck, on the 65th floor. 

Lotte Tower also offers the Sky Walk, an outdoor glass walkway on the 65th floor, and a variety of dining options. It’s a must-visit attraction in Hanoi for sightseeing, adventure, and dining.

Mua Caves View 1, Ninh Binh

Mua Caves View 1 in Ninh Binh, Vietnam is a popular attraction with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors must climb a steep staircase to reach the viewpoint, passing by ornate dragon statues and decorative elements. 

The area also includes a pagoda and small caves for visitors to explore. Mua Caves View 1 is a must-visit attraction in Ninh Binh, offering stunning views and a memorable climbing experience. Visitors should bring a camera and wear comfortable shoes.

Mua Caves Pagoda View, Ninh Binh

Mua Caves Pagoda View in Ninh Binh, Vietnam is a popular attraction offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. To reach the viewpoint, visitors must climb a steep staircase. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Ninh Binh countryside, including the river and limestone cliffs. 

The area is particularly beautiful at sunset. Mua Caves Pagoda View also has a small pagoda with colorful decorations, providing a peaceful atmosphere. The climb is challenging, but the views and atmosphere make it worth it. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera.

Bich Dong Pagoda, Ninh Binh

Bich Dong Pagoda is a stunning temple complex located on a limestone hill in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Visitors must follow a winding path through caves and climb a steep staircase to reach the three pagodas that make up the complex. The pagodas feature unique architecture and colorful decorations, and visitors can also explore illuminated caves with natural formations. 

The panoramic views of the surrounding countryside add to the attraction’s natural beauty. Bich Dong Pagoda is a must-visit attraction that combines stunning architecture, natural beauty, and adventure for travelers visiting Ninh Binh.

Ngu Lam Peak, Cat Ba

Ngu Lam Peak is a scenic hiking destination located in Cat Ba Island, Vietnam. Visitors must embark on a moderate hike through lush forests and rocky terrain to reach the peak within the protected Cat Ba National Park. The stunning views from the summit include Ha Long Bay’s turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs.

 The area is also home to a small temple that offers a peaceful atmosphere. Ngu Lam Peak is a unique and memorable destination that combines natural beauty, stunning views, and cultural attractions for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Cat Ba Island.

Halong Bay

 Halong Bay is truly a remarkable destination in Vietnam, and one of the country’s most popular tourist spots. The limestone formations and calm waters offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and the opportunity to explore the local culture and wildlife adds an extra element of adventure to the experience. 

Whether you’re looking to relax and take in the stunning scenery or explore the area’s unique ecosystem, Halong Bay is definitely worth adding to your travel itinerary.

Mooc Springs, Phong Nha

Mooc Springs sounds like an amazing natural wonder with crystal-clear pools and cascading waterfalls in Vietnam’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The place is perfect for various activities like hiking, exploring caves, picnics, relaxation, swimming, and ziplining. Visitors can explore the Dark Cave, which is only accessible by boat, and wear a helmet and headlamp to navigate through shallow pools, rocks, and boulders to reach the innermost chambers. 

The zipline courses offer a thrilling experience, while hammocks and loungers provide a more relaxing way to enjoy the sun and beautiful surroundings. Mooc Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience in Vietnam.

The Citadel, Hue

The Citadel is a historic fortress in Hue, Vietnam, built in the 19th century and serving as the political and cultural center for over 100 years. It features palaces, temples, and gardens surrounded by a fortified wall and moat, including the Forbidden Purple City and the Imperial City.

 Notable structures include the Thai Hoa Palace, the Halls of the Mandarins, and the Nine Dynastic Urns. Although damaged during the Vietnam War, restoration efforts have preserved much of the original design. The Citadel is a must-visit for those interested in Vietnamese history and culture, offering a unique and memorable experience.

The Abandoned Water Park, Hue

The Abandoned Water Park is a popular destination for urban explorers and photographers located outside Hue, Vietnam. Built in the 1990s but left to decay, the park features decaying slides, pools, and statues amidst overgrown vegetation. Visitors can explore the park on foot, but it is officially off-limits and considered unsafe. 

The park’s iconic feature is an enormous dragon statue covered in vines and moss. The Abandoned Water Park offers a unique and offbeat glimpse into a forgotten world, making it a must-visit for those interested in urban exploration and photography.

Hai Van Pass, Da Nang

The Hai Van Pass is a stunning mountain road in central Vietnam, between Da Nang and Hue. It stretches over 20 km and reaches over 500m high. Built during French colonial times, it’s now a popular tourist spot known for its amazing views and thrilling curves. 

At the top, the Hai Van Gate offers panoramic views and is popular for photos. The road gained fame from its appearance on Top Gear, making it a top destination in Vietnam.

Marble Mountains, Da Nang

The Marble Mountains, located near Da Nang in central Vietnam, are a group of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements of the universe. These mountains are known for their natural beauty and rich history, featuring caves and pagodas used by Buddhist monks for centuries. 

Visitors can explore these caves and pagodas adorned with intricate carvings and statues, hike the trails leading to viewpoints and hidden caves, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and South China Sea. 

The Marble Mountains are also famous for their marble and stone carving industries, and visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase souvenirs made from local materials. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Da Nang or central Vietnam, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The Night Market, Hoi An

The Night Market in Hoi An is a vibrant and colorful market held every evening in the historic old town. It features stalls selling clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, and local food like Banh Mi and Cao Lau. Visitors can browse through the market’s stalls, purchase lanterns as souvenirs, or even participate in lantern-making workshops.

 The market also offers cultural entertainment, including street performers and traditional games like bai choi. The Night Market is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all visitors.

The Golden Bridge, Da Nang

The Golden Bridge is a pedestrian bridge located in Ba Na Hills near Da Nang, Vietnam. It features unique design elements, including two stone hands supporting the bridge and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Visitors can stroll along the bridge, enjoy panoramic views of the scenery, and explore nearby attractions, such as a theme park, a French colonial village, and restaurants. 

The bridge is also illuminated at night, adding to its magical atmosphere. The Golden Bridge is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Da Nang or central Vietnam, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The Rooftop Cafe, Hoi An

The Rooftop Cafe sounds like a wonderful place to visit in Hoi An! The panoramic views of the town and the river from the rooftop seating area must be breathtaking, especially during sunset. The peaceful atmosphere and gentle breeze also sound very inviting, making it a great place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. 

The cafe’s light meals and drinks are also a nice touch, providing visitors with the perfect refreshment while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Overall, the Rooftop Cafe is definitely a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hoi An.

Planning Your Shot: Tips and Tricks for Getting the Perfect Instagram Post

If you’re looking to capture the most Instagrammable spots in Vietnam, it’s important to plan your shots carefully. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the perfect Instagram post:

1. Research your location: Before you arrive, do some research on the spots you want to capture. Look for unique angles or lighting that can make your photos stand out.
2. Time your shots: Consider the time of day you’ll be shooting and plan accordingly. Sunrise and sunset are often the best times to capture stunning photos with beautiful natural light.
3. Use props: Consider adding props to your photos, such as a traditional Vietnamese hat or a colorful lantern. These can add interest and depth to your photos.
4. Experiment with framing: Play around with different angles and framing techniques to add depth and interest to your shots.
5. Edit your photos: Don’t be afraid to edit your photos to make them pop. Use editing apps to adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation to make your photos stand out.
6. Use hashtags: When posting on Instagram, use relevant hashtags to help your photos get discovered by others. Consider using popular hashtags such as #vietnamtravel or #vietnamphotography to increase your visibility.

By planning your shots carefully and using these tips and tricks, you can capture stunning photos that are sure to impress on Instagram.

Beyond the Camera: Experiencing Vietnam’s Beauty and Diversity in Person

While capturing the most Instagrammable spots in Vietnam can be an incredible experience, there’s so much more to this beautiful country than what can be captured through a lens. Here are some ways to experience Vietnam’s beauty and diversity in person:

1. Try the local cuisine: Vietnam is known for its delicious and unique cuisine. Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and explore the local food scene.
2. Meet the locals: The people of Vietnam are warm and welcoming. Take the time to interact with locals and learn about their way of life.
3. Learn the history: Vietnam has a rich and complex history, from the Vietnam War to its French colonial past. Take a guided tour or visit historical sites to learn more.
4. Explore the outdoors: Vietnam has stunning natural landscapes, from the rice terraces in the north to the beaches in the south. Take a hike, go for a swim, or simply enjoy the scenery.
5. Attend a festival: Vietnam has a number of festivals throughout the year, from the Lunar New Year to the Mid-Autumn Festival. Attending a festival is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions.
6. Give back: Vietnam has many organizations and charities that work to improve the lives of its citizens. Consider volunteering or making a donation to support these efforts.

By going beyond the camera and experiencing Vietnam’s beauty and diversity in person, you can gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible country and its people.