Dubbed the "City of Eternal Spring," Da Lat presents a distinctive mix of charming scenery, colonial buildings, thrilling activities, and bustling marketplaces.
1. Xuan Huong Lake – the core of Dalat
Xuan Huong Lake stands as the focal point of Dalat, offering an oasis within the urban landscape. Shaped like a half-moon, this picturesque body of water is encircled by lush pine trees, vibrant floral displays, and charming coffee shops, making it a beloved destination for unwinding and enjoying recreational pursuits. Tourists have the option to go jogging, cycling, or renting paddle boats shaped like swans for 50,000 Vietnamese dong (approximately $2) per hour. Ideal moments to explore include dawn, where wisps of fog linger above the surface, painting a surreal picture, and dusk, when the waters mirror the warm amber tones of twilight’s final light. Numerous café establishments line the lakeside, providing cozy spots to sip on renowned Dalat artichoke tea and savor serene vistas.
2. Dalat Flower Garden - a magical display of hues
Da Lat, known as Vietnam’s floral hub, hosts the expansive Da Lat Flower Garden spanning 7,000 square meters with over 300 varieties of blooms. Created in 1966, this meticulously designed garden displays a wide array of flowers such as roses, orchids, tulips, and hydrangeas that flourish throughout the year. It reaches its peak splendor at the biennial Da Lat Flower Festival, usually taking place between December and January, turning the town into a vibrant botanical paradise. Admission costs VND50,000 ($2), offering budget-friendly delight for flora enthusiasts who may wander among the colorful pathways, capture photos near charming water features, or purchase pot plants and seeds as keepsakes.
3. Langbiang Mountain – the pinnacle of Dalat
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A man is standing atop a summit in the Langbiang mountain range. Photographed by Tran Viet Anh. |
At an elevation of 2,167 meters, it stands as the tallest peak in Dalat, providing sweeping vistas of the Golden Valley, Silver River, and Dankia Lake. Tourists have the option to undertake a two-hour trek through the pine woods or opt for a jeep tour costing VND100,000 ($4) per individual to ascend to the top. For those seeking excitement, paragliding is also offered, enabling visitors to glide above the breathtaking scenery. This remarkable location is rich with tales recounting the sorrowful romance of Lang and Biang, imbuing it with an enchanting mystique.
4. Tea plantations – a tranquil retreat
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Part of the Cau Dat tea hill, adorned with blossoming peach trees in Da Lat during spring 2025. Photographed by Nguyen Ngoc Son. |
Dalat is famous for its verdant tea gardens, notably those found in Cau Dat, which lies about 25 kilometers away from the city center. This scenic landscape of gentle slopes covered in emerald greens offers a perfect backdrop for both taking photographs and unwinding.
Guests have the opportunity to discover the art of tea preparation, taste newly brewed oolong and green teas, and revel in the tranquil ambiance. The early morning fog adds a magical touch, rendering this location essential for both nature aficionados and tea connoisseurs alike.
5. The Wacky Home – a marvel of architecture
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Visitors at the Crazy House in Da Lat. Image captured by Hong Ha |
The Crazy House, formally called Hang Nga Guesthouse, stands out as an exceptionally distinctive and fanciful architectural landmark in Vietnam. Continuously developing over time, this captivating site has a magical quality reminiscent of a storybook setting, enchanting visitors with its unorthodox artistic design and structure.
Created by Vietnamese architect Dang Viet Nga, this whimsical building looks like an enormous tree featuring winding stairwells, labyrinthine corridors, and fantastical animal-themed chambers. Every room boasts a distinct motif—such as the Kangaroo Room, Tiger Room, and Bear Room—and incorporates natural, ecology-driven aesthetics.
The entry fee costs VND60,000 ($2.50), whereas staying overnight ranges between VND1,000,000 to VND2,000,000 ($39-$78).
6. St. Nicholas Cathedral – a peek into Dalat’s French legacy
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St. Nicholas Cathedral in Dalat. Image captured by Phong Vinh |
Commonly referred to as either the Dalat Cathedral or affectionately nicknamed the Chicken Church, Saint Nicholas Cathedral stands out as a remarkable example of French colonial architecture from the early 1900s. This iconic site features classic European design elements including intricate stained glass windows and a towering spire. It serves both as a significant spiritual center for worshippers and as a captivating attraction where tourists can immerse themselves in history and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
7. The Domaine de Marie Church – a stunning pink architectural marvel
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Church of Domaine de Marie in Dalat. Photograph by Thanh Tuyet. |
Yet another stunning church, the Domaine de Mariem stands out due to its captivating pink exterior and its harmonious fusion of French and Vietnamese design elements. Constructed during the 1940s, this place of worship boasts Euro-inspired pointed-arch windows, an eye-catching triangular rooftop, and a modest yet delightful interior decorated with various religious items.
Situated atop a hill, this location provides sweeping vistas of Dalat, rendering it perfect for contemplation and picture-taking. Additionally, the church houses a convent where guests have the opportunity to discover the philanthropic activities carried out by the nuns, who aid orphaned children and underprivileged populations in the area.
8. Datanla Waterfall – an exhilarating experience of nature’s splendor
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A lady participates in a canyoning excursion at Datanla Waterfall in Dalat. Image captured by Thanh Hang. |
Located just five kilometers away from the downtown area, Datanla Waterfall stands out as one of Dalat’s most exciting attractions. Unlike many other cascades that demand arduous hikes, this waterfall features an Alpine roller-coaster-style attraction, enabling tourists to swoop down a serpentine path amid trees until they arrive at the base. The cost for this heart-pounding experience ranges between VND 80,000 – 150,000 ($3-$6), varying with distance traveled. For those who prefer panoramic vistas without physical exertion, a gondola lift provides stunning views over nearby peaks. Additionally, adrenaline junkies might opt for activities such as canyoneering or rappelling, which further cement Datanla as a premier spot for adventurers seeking excitement.
9. The Valley of Love – an enchanting retreat for couples
First introduced by the French during the 1930s, the Valley of Love stands out as one of Dalat’s most charming and romantic locations. Nestled amidst undulating emerald-green slopes, vibrant floral landscapes, and peaceful water bodies, this site attracts numerous pairs seeking respite and newlyweds looking for blissful moments. Tourists have the option to revel in leisurely swan-shaped boat trips costing VND70,000 ($2.75) per hour, gallop around atop horses, or take a nostalgic journey via horse-drawn carriages priced at VND150,000 ($6). Various hiking paths within the valley offer breathtaking vistas over the calm rural expanse.
10. Dalat Night Market – a paradise for food enthusiasts
If you want to experience Da Lat’s nighttime scene, head over to the Night Market. This bustling spot features numerous street food vendors alongside stores selling souvenirs and handmade crafts. Be sure not to miss out on trying their signature dishes at these stalls. banh trang nuong A crispy grilled rice paper treat priced at VND20,000–30,000, a warming sweet soup costing VND15,000, along with freshly made soy milk and strawberries available for VND10,000–20,000 per portion can be found here. Additionally, this marketplace offers an excellent selection of woolen scarves, handmade trinkets, and dried fruits, making it perfect for those seeking culinary delights as well as keepsakes.
11. Bao Dai's Summer Palace – a regal getaway
The ancient palace served as the summertime hideaway for Vietnam’s final emperor, Bao Dai. This Art Deco-style villa offers insights into regal living through its period-appropriate furnishings, refined decorations, and breathtaking vistas of Da Lat. Tourists have the opportunity to wander through the chambers, appreciate the imperial relics, and gain knowledge about Vietnamese history. Admission costs VND40,000 ($1.60).
12. Elephant Falls – A Majestic Natural Wonder
Situated 30 kilometers away from Da Lat lies the Elephant Waterfall, renowned for being among the mightiest and most spectacular falls in the area. This waterfall gets its name due to a rock structure shaped like an elephant and stands at approximately 30 meters tall. It becomes particularly awe-inspiring during the wetter months when the volume of water surges dramatically. Visitors reach the foot of the fall via a rugged path suitable for hikers; here, you can experience the cool spray and capture memorable photographs. Adjacent to this natural wonder is Linh An Pagoda, featuring a colossal gilded statue of a jovial Buddha which imbues your journey with a sense of spirituality. Admission costs around VND20,000 per person.
13. Da Lat Railway Station – a historic treasure
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Dalat Railway Station. Image captured by Phu Dung |
Constructed during the 1930s, Dalat Railway Station stands as one of Vietnam’s earliest and most enchanting rail hubs, distinguished by its distinct French colonial style featuring a sharp, triangular roof modeled after the customary longhouses found in the Central Highlands region. This meticulously maintained structure boasts elegant stained-glass windows, classic ticket booths, and old-fashioned steam engines that evoke an atmosphere reminiscent of yesteryears.
Although it no longer handles distant journeys, the station runs a brief but picturesque train trip to Trai Mat village. This allows travelers to appreciate the rural landscapes, dense pine woods, and vibrant floral areas. Upon arrival at the destination, guests have the opportunity to visit the renowned Linh Phuoc Pagoda, which is celebrated for its elaborate murals crafted from discarded pieces of porcelain and glass.
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