Leave the holiday crowds behind at these five destinations near Ho Chi Minh City, from an unspoiled beach to a lush Mekong River islet.

For 40 years of preparing and selling delicious yet affordable dishes, a couple in their nearly 70s in HCMC has had diners queuing every evening to get a taste.

From fireworks and historic sites to riverside parks and cultural encounters, Ho Chi Minh City offers plenty to see and do during Vietnam’s September 2 National Day holiday.

From Da Lat’s cloud-covered hills to the forests of Mang Den and Gia Lai, these three highland destinations offer cool weather, natural beauty and varied experiences for the National Day break.

Hanoi is shifting from event-based tourism toward a year-round experience model, using festivals as gateways to longer stays, deeper cultural encounters, and repeat visits.

Travelers staying near Hanoi for the September 2 holiday can discover ancient village life, ethnic traditions and refreshing mountain landscapes just 50-60km from the city center.

Hanoi’s Five Gates Train is taking on a new look to mark the 81st anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day on September 2, bringing the atmosphere of the country’s historic autumn back to life.

Around 140km from Hanoi, a leafy garden in Quang Ninh is drawing visitors with coconut-lined waterways, lotus ponds and boat rides reminiscent of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta.

A tourist train service, “Phong Nha – Hue ancient capital: World heritage journey,” was launched at Dong Hoi station on August 28, connecting major heritage, historical, cultural and natural attractions in central Vietnam.

The tourism sector is gearing up for the five-day National Day holiday from August 29 to September 2.

Ha Long Bay burst into light on August 27 as 72 tourist and restaurant vessels sailed in formation, with their dazzling lights turning the UNESCO World Heritage site into a spectacular nighttime stage.

A few hours from Hanoi, travelers can browse an early-morning fish market, unwind on a quiet beach or take to the skies above spectacular terraced rice fields.

Four remarkable trees in Dak Lak, including one more than 300 years old, have gained national heritage recognition and could now become a new draw for local tourism.

Looking to escape the crowds this Sept. 2 holiday? Four little-developed beaches across central Vietnam offer clear water, quiet fishing villages and a slower rhythm by the sea.

What began with a mysterious natural stone in rural Nghe An has grown into a place of worship, surrounded by a haunting folk legend passed down through generations.

The central city of Da Nang tops the domestic rankings while Bangkok leads the international list of the most-searched destinations among Vietnamese travellers for the upcoming holiday.

Hanoi will waive entrance fees to tourist attractions, historical sites and cultural facilities that normally charge admission on September 2, the National Day, under a decision by the municipal People's Committee.

Hang Nga Villa, better known as the “Crazy House,” in Xuan Huong - Da Lat Ward, Lam Dong Province, once made headlines around the world for its extraordinary architecture. Decades later, it remains a magnet for visitors and overnight guests.

At a small Ho Chi Minh City shop, an American chef is putting his own spin on Vietnam’s iconic banh mi, selling out batches in as little as 30 minutes.

Southern Vietnam has no shortage of options for the September 2 break, from tropical islands and fruit orchards to cruises along the Mekong.