The destinations were selected through a combination of surveys of readers who have booked rooms on the Netherlands-based booking app and information provided by its own travel experts.
Booking.com carried out the survey in August-September, among people who had travel plans in the next two months. Selection criteria included landscapes, weather conditions and public transport access.
1. Hanoi
In autumn, Hanoi becomes a city that delights the senses. It is a place where you will find yourself immersed in the fragrant aura of flowers, with street vendors selling vibrant flowers on the streets.
 |
|
A flower seller walks past a ceramic wall in Hanoi. Photo by Nguyen Phuc Thanh |
Throughout autumn, streets like Phan Dinh Phung, Quan Thanh and Quang Trung and those around West Lake enjoy the ethereal charm of white milk flowers.
Visitors are invited to explore the old quarter, where hidden treasures await them in every alley. They can stumble upon charming cafes and delicious terrace restaurants that offer the chance to enjoy young green rice and sweet honey donuts in the crisp autumn air.
Recommended Stay: Just a two-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake is May De Ville Luxury Hotel & Spa offering modern accommodation. This hotel is close to renowned attractions such as Ngoc Son Temple, Opera House and St. Joseph Cathedral.
2. Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay, in the south of Cat Ba Island, off the coast of Hai Phong, is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery adorning most of its islands. In 2020, it was recognized as one of the most beautiful bays in the world by the club of the same name.
 |
|
Lan Ha Bay seen from above. Photo by Pham Huy Trung |
For those looking for an unspoilt destination with stunning scenery and a tranquil atmosphere, and for travelers who have already explored Ha Long Bay and are looking for a fresh and captivating experience, Lan Ha Bay is the perfect choice.
Recommended stay: Consider Lan Ha Floating Homestay in Cat Ba, which offers sea views, gardens, a bar and a private beach. It is also close to attractions such as Monkey Island and Ben Beo Port.
3. Ha Giang
In autumn, the Dong Van plateau in Ha Giang province transforms into a tapestry of white and pink-purple buckwheat flowers. Many travelers choose to explore Ha Giang by motorbike to fully immerse themselves in the unique beauty of this region at the end of the year.
 |
|
Buckwheat flowers adorn the slopes of the Ha Giang mountains as the year draws to a close. Photo courtesy of Ha Giang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism |
Buckwheat is of great importance to locals and is usually grown after the summer-autumn rice harvest. Travelers embarking on an autumn trip will not only benefit from the vibrant colors of the flowers, but will also have the opportunity to taste wine and cakes made from buckwheat seeds.
Recommended Stay: Panhou Retreat in Hoang Su Phi is a resort offering bungalows nestled by a lake and a garden. Visitors can hike with local guides, participate in cooking classes, take herbal baths and enjoy relaxing massages.
4. Dalat
Da Lat is a year-round destination for travelers, but in the fall it transforms into a paradise of golden wild sunflowers. As soon as you arrive in Bao Loc town, 121 km before Da Lat, the sight of wild sunflowers adorning the misty pine hills will captivate you.
 |
|
Da Lat Wooden Bridge is a famous place for photography enthusiasts. Photo by Pham Kim Nhan |
With a consistently cool climate and cool evenings, Da Lat is an ideal getaway for those seeking a respite from the heat of the plains.
Recommended Stay: Da Lat Edensee Lake Resort & Spa is just 10 kilometers from the city center and 30 kilometers from Lien Khuong Airport. Overlooking Tuyen Lam Lake, it offers a serene atmosphere amidst stunning natural surroundings.
5. Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and old fishing villages. The best time to visit Phu Quoc is October-November, when the city is at its peak.
 |
|
The long white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of Phu Quoc attract local and international tourists. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran |
Travelers to Phu Quoc are spoiled for choice with activities like swimming, kayaking, scuba diving to explore coral reefs, cycling through picturesque landscapes, visiting pepper plantations, visiting traditional fish sauce production facilities and observing pearl farming.
Recommended Stay: Ocean Bay Phu Quoc Resort & Spa is a five-star beachfront resort with a prime location. It is close to popular attractions such as Ong Lang Beach and Sung Hung Pagoda.