Things to do in Da Lat, Vietnam


At almost 5,000 feet above sea level, Da Lat dishes a chill vibeboth literally and figurativelythat appeals to travelers. The cool weather coupled with an array of nature and man-made attractionsmake this city in Central Vietnaman ideal place for wanderers crisscrossing the land of Pho, to make a pit stop for several daysTo give you an idea on what to do in Da Lat, follow some of the things I did.  

Marky Ramone Go sits atop a rock near Pongour in Da Lat, Vietnam

Take the Easy-Rider Day Tour

As a city situated in the central highlands of Vietnam, Da Lat is surrounded by jaw dropping scenery consisting of pine forests, glass-like lakes, waterfalls and quaint towns. What better way to explore all these places than go on a motorcycle tour. 

the easy rider tour starting to explore Da Lat in Vietnam

Travelers can easily rent a motorbike in the city but for those wanting a hassle-free exploration and also to make sure you won’t miss any place of fascination, I suggest you avail the Easy-Rider Day tour available at most hotels and hostels. It starts at 8:00 am and ends before 5:00 pm taking you to coffee farms, silk factories, waterfalls, various temples, local villages, heritage sites and more.

Hang out at Hip Cafes

Marky Ramone Go contemplates life inside a random cafe in Da Lat Vietnam

In a place where the cool weather prevails all year round—especially in a country known for coffee—it comes as no surprise that Da Lat is spoilt with cafes each screaming of trendy interiors and bursting with pure coffee aroma. Rest your weary legs from hours of wandering at one of Da Lat’s hip cafes and to also enjoy a cup of coffee Vietnam is known for.

Stroll at the Old French Quarters

French inspired buildings and houses built in the late 19th century and early 20th century still exists in a small neighborhood in Da Lat. While some are in disrepair, most still exude a sense of Da Lat's old character during the French colonization years.  Taking a stroll here at the Old French Quarter will indulge you to the classic Art Nouveau architecture of the city. Also, don’t miss the old Da Lat Train station also located in this neighborhood.

Vietnamese Food trip

Going on a foodtrip around Da Lat, Vietnam is a must-do

Da Lat’s location in the highlands of Vietnam makes it as an ideal place for farmers to grow vegetables thus earning the moniker "vegetable garden of the south". Since everything here is grown organically, expect the freshest and healthiest savory local cuisines to be served in the many side street restaurants in the city.

Visit Pongour Waterfalls

The massive walls of Pongour waterfalls in Da Lat Vietnam

Gushing over a massive boulder wall of over a hundred meters wide and 40 meters high is the cascading waterfalls of Pongour. Truly, a marvel of sight located just 40 kilometers from downtown Da Lat. This is a side trip one mustn’t miss when visiting Da Lat.

Go Wacky at the Crazy House


The exterior of the Crazy House in Da Lat, Vietnam

Originally known as Hằng Nga Guesthouse, it has become more identified as the Crazy House because of its, uhm well—crazy but imaginative architecture. Designed by Vietnamese architect Dang Viet Nga, it incorporates influences of Antoni Gaudi by blending perfectly the sculptured elements of Earthly natural forms such as animals, insects, caves to go along with other non-rectilinear shapes. Described as an "expressionist" type of Architecture, seeing the "Crazy House" up close is definitely an experience you cannot pass up on. 

Find your Zen at Xuan Huong Lake

The scenic Xuan Huong Lake in Da Lat, Vietnam

A man-made lake situated in the city center of Da Lat, Xuan Huong Lake is a place teeming with lush gardens or colorful flowers and indigenous plants. Sitting under the tree and enjoying a couple of hours of relaxation here shall have you achieving a piece of mind in no time.

Trek to Elephant Falls

the strong cascades of Elephant waterfall near Da Lat, Vietnam

Another waterfalls worthy of a side trip from Da Lat, Elephant Waterfalls encompasses a bundle of energy as evidenced by its forceful flowing waters. This waterfalls is also situated almost adjacent to Linh An Tu Pagoda - which is highlighted by a huge white Buddha statue.

Check out my blog post Things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam.




I first wrote this article for Windowseat.ph on August 15, 2019