Mar
During our trip through Vietnam, we traveled from south to north, starting in Ho Chi Minh City. Instead of following the coastal route, we chose to head inland, which is how we ended up spending a few days in Dalat. This mountain town is often overlooked by travelers, but for us it turned out to be one of the biggest surprises of the trip. Located high in the Central Highlands, Dalat has a much cooler climate than the rest of Vietnam. Instead of tropical bustle, you’ll find pine forests, misty hills, and colorful flower fields. The city even has a slightly European feel, with traces of French colonial architecture. In this blog, you’ll discover the best things to do in Dalat, a destination that can truly enrich your Vietnam itinerary.
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Why Dalat shouldn’t be missed on your Vietnam itinerary?
Why shouldn’t Dalat be missed on your trip through Vietnam? When traveling from south to north, you mostly expect tropical heat, busy cities, and endless rice fields. Dalat feels completely different from the moment you arrive.
The city lies in the Central Highlands of southern Vietnam, at about 1,500 meters above sea level. Because of this elevation, the climate is surprisingly cool and pleasant. The surrounding landscape is made up of green hills, pine forests, and misty valleys.
During the French colonial period, Dalat was developed as a mountain resort. French officials came here to escape the heat of Saigon. Today, you can still see this history reflected in the city’s architecture and atmosphere.
Dalat also remains a popular destination for domestic tourism. Many Vietnamese travelers come here to escape the heat of the big cities. They enjoy the nature, the fresh climate, and the relaxed vibe of the town.
In addition, Dalat is a great base for exploring the surrounding region. In and around the city, you’ll find many places that are well worth a visit.
How to travel to Dalat?
Traveling to Dalat is easier than you might think. The city lies in the Central Highlands of southern Vietnam. Because of its location, it is mainly reached by domestic flights or long-distance buses.
The fastest option is flying to Lien Khuong Airport, Dalat’s main airport. Several domestic flights depart daily from cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. From the airport, it’s about 30 kilometers to the center of Dalat.
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City? You can also take a bus. The journey usually takes six to eight hours, depending on traffic. Several bus companies operate daily routes between the two cities.
Buses also run to Dalat from coastal cities such as Nha Trang and Mui Ne. The route winds through the mountains and offers beautiful scenery along the way.
Although Dalat has a train station, there are no longer any long-distance trains running to the city. However, the historic Dalat Railway Station is a beautiful attraction in itself. Built in the 1930s, this colonial station is known for its colorful art deco architecture and is one of the most photogenic spots in Dalat. From here, you can still take a short tourist train ride to the nearby village of Trai Mat.
A useful tool for planning your trip is 12go Asia. On this platform, you can easily compare and book flights, buses, and other transport options, including prices, travel times, and availability.
Want to know more about traveling around Vietnam, finding accommodation, payments, tipping, and other essential things to plan your trip? You’ll find all my tips in my blog post “10 Vietnam travel tips you should know before you go.”
How to get around in Dalat?
Getting around Dalat is relatively easy. The city is smaller and quieter than many other Vietnamese cities, but there are still several convenient ways to move around.
The easiest option is Grab. With this app, you can quickly order a taxi or motorbike ride. The price is shown in advance, so there’s no need to negotiate. Grab is reliable and widely used by both locals and travelers.
Taxis are also easy to find in Dalat. As in other Vietnamese cities, it’s important to make sure the meter is running to avoid any confusion about the fare.
A fun way to explore the surrounding area is by scooter. We rented one for a few days ourselves. This makes it easy to visit the different things to do in Dalat around the city. If you have less experience riding a scooter, you can also hire one with a driver. Many hotels are happy to help arrange this.
Within the compact center of Dalat, it’s also easy and pleasant to get around on foot.
How many days do you need to explore Dalat?
How many days should you spend in Dalat? We found two to three days to be ideal. The city itself isn’t very large, but there is surprisingly a lot to see in the surrounding area.
In two days, you can already discover many things to do in Dalat. You’ll have enough time to explore the city and visit a few natural highlights nearby, such as temples, viewpoints, and waterfalls around town.
With three days, you can take things at a more relaxed pace. It also gives you the chance to explore the surroundings in more depth. Many interesting places are located outside the city center and require a bit of travel.
Dalat is also simply a great place to slow down for a while. The cooler climate and green landscapes make it a pleasant stop during your trip through Vietnam.
Where to stay in Dalat?
Dalat has a surprisingly wide range of hotels and guesthouses. Most travelers choose to stay in or near the city center. From here, you can easily reach the main things to do in Dalat, and many restaurants, cafés, and markets are within walking distance.
A great area to stay is around Xuan Huong Lake. This lake lies in the heart of the city and is an ideal base for exploring Dalat. In this neighborhood, you’ll find cozy cafés, local restaurants, and small shops.
One of the things that makes Dalat special is its large selection of small boutique hotels. Many accommodations combine stylish rooms with a warm and personal atmosphere.
A lovely option is Le Macaron City Center, a charming hotel with a French-inspired style and a central location. Bach Place Dalat is another great choice, offering elegant rooms and a cozy, homelike atmosphere.
Looking for something a bit more creative? The Note Dalat is a colorful hotel known for its playful design and relaxed vibe. If you prefer more nature and tranquility, Mơ Stay, ForestResort is a beautiful option. Surrounded by pine forests, it feels like a hidden oasis just outside the city.
15 epic things to do in Dalat
Depending on how much time you have in Dalat and your personal interests, you can easily create your own itinerary using my tips. I’ve placed the best things to do in Dalat on a map, giving you a clear overview to help plan your visit to this mountain town.
1 – Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse)
One of the most unusual things to do in Dalat is without a doubt the Crazy House, officially called the Hang Nga Guesthouse. This surreal building looks more like a fairytale forest than a hotel.
The Crazy House was designed by Vietnamese architect Dang Viet Nga. She studied architecture in Moscow and wanted to create a building that feels closely connected to nature. Construction started in 1990 and is actually still ongoing today. The building has no straight lines. Everything seems to grow organically, like trees, roots, and caves. Narrow bridges, winding staircases, and hidden passageways make it feel almost like a maze.
Today, the Crazy House is both a guesthouse and a tourist attraction. During the day, you can freely walk around and explore the different rooms and terraces. Some of the rooms can even be booked for an overnight stay. Each room has a different theme, often inspired by animals. For example, some rooms resemble an eagle, a tiger, or even an ant.
It’s an incredibly photogenic place. Around every corner you’ll discover new shapes and surprising details. The Crazy House is usually open from 08:30 to 19:00, making it easy to include in your itinerary while exploring Dalat.
2 – Xuan Huong Lake
Right in the center of Dalat lies Xuan Huong Lake, the city’s most famous lake. It forms the green heart of Dalat and is a popular place to relax.
The artificial lake was created in the 1910s during the French colonial period. Since then, it has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. A wide promenade surrounds the lake, where you can walk or cycle. Early in the morning and at sunset, the atmosphere here is especially peaceful. You’ll see locals exercising, jogging, or simply enjoying the view.
The area around the lake is also lively and pleasant. You’ll find cafés, restaurants, and small parks nearby, making it a great place to take a break while sightseeing. On the lake, you can even rent swan-shaped pedal boats, which are especially popular with Vietnamese visitors.
Thanks to its central location, you’ll likely pass by here naturally while exploring the city. Many of the main things to do in Dalat are within walking distance of the lake. Xuan Huong Lake is open at all times and can be visited at any moment of the day.
3 – Dalat Night Market
As soon as evening falls, the center of Dalat completely transforms. The Dalat Night Market comes alive with lights, aromas, and a lively atmosphere.
Located near Xuan Huong Lake, this market is one of the most vibrant places in the city. Both locals and travelers gather here to eat, shop, and wander around.
The market is especially known for its street food. One of the most popular snacks is the so-called Dalat pizza, locally known as Bánh tráng nướng. This crispy rice paper “pizza” is grilled over charcoal and topped with egg, spring onions, cheese, and sometimes minced meat or sausage. You’ll also find many other local snacks, such as grilled corn, hot soy milk, and the famous Dalat strawberries. The market is also a good place to shop for souvenirs and clothing. Many stalls sell warm sweaters and scarves, which come in handy in Dalat’s cooler climate.
What makes this market so enjoyable is the atmosphere. Music fills the air and people gather to eat, chat, and stroll through the stalls. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s a fun place to wander around and experience daily life in Dalat.
The Dalat Night Market is open daily from around 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM and is definitely worth a visit.
4 – Linh Phuoc Pagoda
Just outside the center of Dalat, you’ll find one of the most impressive temples in the region: Linh Phuoc Pagoda. This colorful pagoda is located about eight kilometers from the city.
What makes this temple so special is its unique architectural style. The pagoda is decorated with thousands of pieces of glass, ceramic, and porcelain. Together, they form beautiful mosaics that cover the entire complex. One of the most striking elements is the enormous dragon at the entrance. This dragon is entirely made from thousands of glass bottles, creating an impressive artwork that immediately catches the eye. Inside the temple, you’ll discover various statues and intricate decorations. There is also a large Buddha statue rising high above the complex.
Personally, I found this to be one of the most impressive things to do in Dalat. The vibrant colors, detailed mosaics, and unusual architecture make this place truly unique.
The pagoda is usually open from around 07:00 to 17:00, and entry is free. This makes it easy to include in your itinerary while exploring Dalat.
5 – Truc Lam Zen Monastery
If you want to escape the bustle of Dalat for a while, you’ll find peace at Truc Lam Zen Monastery. This serene Buddhist monastery sits on a hill just outside the city.
The monastery was built in the 1990s and is one of the largest Zen Buddhist monasteries in Vietnam. Monks and nuns still live and meditate here today.
What makes this place special is its tranquil atmosphere. The temple is surrounded by pine forests and beautifully landscaped gardens. You’ll see flowers, bonsai trees, and small paths where you can take a peaceful walk. From the monastery, you also have a beautiful view over Tuyen Lam Lake, one of the most scenic lakes near Dalat.
A fun way to reach the monastery is by taking the Dalat Cable Car. The cable car departs from Robin Hill, just outside the city center. During the ride, you glide about 2.3 kilometers over forests and hills toward the monastery. The trip takes around 10 to 15 minutes and offers lovely panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The cable car is usually open from 08:00 to 17:00. The monastery itself is generally accessible from 07:00 to 17:00, and entrance is free.
6 – Datanla waterfall
Looking for nature with a touch of adventure? Then Datanla Waterfall is one of the most fun places to visit around Dalat. This waterfall is located about five kilometers from the city center.
The waterfall lies in the middle of a lush forest area and consists of several levels. Walking paths and stairways lead to different viewpoints. Along the way, you’ll pass several photogenic spots overlooking the waterfall and the surrounding forest.
What makes Datanla especially popular is the alpine coaster. With this toboggan-style ride, you travel in a small cart through the forest down toward the waterfall. You can control your own speed, which makes it a fun and unique experience.
The ride winds through the landscape and offers beautiful views along the way. At the bottom, you’ll reach the most powerful part of the waterfall, where the water cascades between the rocks. It’s a great place to pause and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Datanla Waterfall is usually open from 07:00 to 17:00. There is a small entrance fee, and the alpine coaster requires a separate ticket.
7 – Cau Dat Tea Village
About 25 kilometers from Dalat, you’ll find a landscape that feels completely different from the city. Cau Dat Tea Village is known for its vast tea plantations rolling over the hills.
The tea plantations were established here during the French colonial period. Thanks to the cool climate and fertile soil, excellent tea grows in this region.
As you walk through the hills, you’ll see endless rows of green tea bushes. Early in the morning, a light mist often hangs over the fields, giving the place an almost magical atmosphere. The area is also popular with photographers, as several spots offer beautiful panoramic views over the hills and tea plantations.
A lovely stop nearby is Nhà Gỗ, a charming bar with a beautiful garden. This place is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views. In the garden, you’ll find several photogenic corners surrounded by flowers and greenery.
8 – Linh An Pagoda
Wie het platteland rond Dalat verkent, komt al snel uit bij Linh An Pagoda. Deze indrukwekkende tempel ligt in een groene heuvelachtige omgeving, vlak bij Elephant Waterfall.
De pagode werd gebouwd in de jaren 1990 en is uitgegroeid tot één van de bekendste tempels in de regio. Wat meteen opvalt, zijn de enorme Boeddhabeelden op het terrein.Het bekendste beeld is de grote Happy Buddha, een lachende Boeddha die symbool staat voor geluk en voorspoed. Daarnaast staat er ook een indrukwekkend Lady Buddha beeld van ongeveer 70 meter hoog. Dit witte beeld torent hoog boven de tempel en de omliggende heuvels uit.
Tijdens je bezoek kan je rustig door het tempelcomplex wandelen. Je komt langs verschillende beelden, kleine heiligdommen en rustige hoekjes om even te pauzeren.
Door de ligging in de natuur voelt de sfeer hier kalm en sereen. Het is een fijne plek om even tot rust te komen tijdens een dagtrip rond Dalat.
De pagode is meestal geopend van ongeveer 07:00 tot 17:00 en de toegang is gratis.
9 – Elephant Waterfall
Anyone exploring the countryside around Dalat will soon come across Linh An Pagoda. This impressive temple is set in a green, hilly landscape near Elephant Waterfall.
The pagoda was built in the 1990s and has become one of the best-known temples in the region. What immediately stands out are the enormous Buddha statues on the grounds. The most famous is the large Happy Buddha, a laughing Buddha symbolizing happiness and prosperity. There is also an impressive Lady Buddha statue, about 70 meters tall, which towers above the temple and the surrounding hills.
During your visit, you can wander peacefully through the temple complex. Along the way, you’ll pass several statues, small shrines, and quiet corners where you can pause for a moment.
Thanks to its natural surroundings, the atmosphere here feels calm and serene. It’s a lovely place to relax during a day trip around Dalat. The pagoda is usually open from around 07:00 to 17:00, and entrance is free.
10 – Pongour Waterfall
Located a bit farther from the city, but absolutely one of the must-see attractions around Dalat, is Pongour Waterfall. This impressive waterfall lies about 50 kilometers from Dalat.
Pongour is often considered the most beautiful waterfall in the region, and in my opinion, that reputation is well deserved. I personally found it to be one of the most stunning places around Dalat.
The water cascades down wide rock terraces, creating a unique multi-tiered waterfall. The falls are about 40 meters high and more than 100 meters wide. During the rainy season, the sight is especially spectacular as the water spreads across multiple levels, forming an impressive natural scene.
From the entrance, you walk through a wooded park along a path that leads to the waterfall. Along the way, you’ll pass several viewpoints and picnic areas. Once at the bottom, you can get close to the water and really feel the power of the falls. It’s a wonderful place to pause and enjoy the surrounding nature.
The waterfall is usually open from around 07:00 to 17:00, and a small entrance fee is required.
11 – Canyoning in Dalat
Do you love adventure? Then canyoning in Dalat is one of the most exciting activities you can experience here. During this day tour, you’ll head deep into nature and explore waterfalls, jungle, and rivers in an active way.
In the morning, you’ll be picked up at your hotel in Dalat and driven to Datanla Waterfall, the starting point of the tour. Here, you’ll first receive a safety briefing and all the necessary equipment, including a helmet, harness, and wetsuit.
Then the real adventure begins. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll learn how to safely rappel down rocks and waterfalls. One of the first challenges is an 18-meter descent along a rock face.
Along the way, even more action awaits. You’ll slide down natural water slides in the river and soar over the water on a zipline. Between the activities, you’ll hike through the jungle and swim in natural pools.
Midway through the day, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. After that, a few more spectacular waterfall challenges await.
One of the best parts is that you’ll receive free photos and videos of your adventure, so you can relive this unique experience in Dalat later.
Want to experience this amazing tour yourself? Check availability here and book your canyoning adventure in Dalat.
12 – Easy rider motorbike tour
Don’t have much time in Dalat but still want to explore part of the surrounding area? Then an Easy Rider motorbike tour is a perfect choice. During this tour, you’ll discover the beautiful countryside around Dalat from the back of a motorbike with a local guide.
You’ll be picked up at your hotel in Dalat in the morning. From there, a day full of impressive stops and scenic mountain roads begins. Your guide speaks good English and shares interesting insights about daily life in Vietnam along the way.
The route takes you to several fascinating places. You’ll visit a flower farm and a coffee plantation, where you can even taste the famous weasel coffee, one of the most expensive coffees in the world.
Along the way, you’ll also stop at a cricket farm and a silk factory, giving you a unique glimpse into everyday life in the Vietnamese countryside.
Of course, the tour also includes spectacular natural spots. You’ll visit Elephant Waterfall and the impressive Linh An Pagoda with its large Buddha statues.
As the highlight of the day, you can also visit Pongour Waterfall, which in my opinion is the most beautiful waterfall in the Dalat region.
Between stops, you’ll ride along quiet mountain roads with stunning views. This tour is one of the best ways to discover the things to do around Dalat outside the city.
Does this sound like a great way to explore Dalat? Check the details of the Easy Rider tour here and plan your adventure in the Vietnamese countryside.
13 – Visit a coffee roastery and tasting workshop
Everyone knows that Vietnamese coffee is a must during a trip through Vietnam. But in Dalat, you can take the experience one step further. Here, you can learn how coffee is made yourself, from bean to cup.
During this workshop, you’ll visit Twin Beans Farm, a small coffee farm in the green highlands around Dalat. The region is known for its fertile volcanic soil, which allows excellent Arabica beans to grow here.
Your local host will guide you through the coffee garden and explain how coffee is cultivated and processed. After that, you’ll discover the entire process of roasting, grinding, and brewing.
The highlight of the workshop is roasting your own coffee beans. As the beans slowly change color, the aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. You’ll then grind the beans and brew your own cup of coffee.
The best moment, of course, comes afterward. You sit down overlooking the peaceful countryside and taste the coffee you just made yourself.
This workshop offers a calm and authentic experience, perfect if you want to escape the crowds and discover a different side of the things to do in Dalat.
14 – Go cloud hunting in the early morning
Do you want to experience something truly special and don’t mind waking up early? Then cloud hunting at sunrise is one of the most unique experiences around Dalat.
You’ll leave very early in the morning, usually around 4 a.m. Together with a guide, you’ll drive to a viewpoint in the mountains. Here, an unforgettable moment awaits. As the sun rises, you’ll watch a sea of clouds slowly drift between the hills. This spot is known as one of the most beautiful viewpoints around Dalat and is a dream location for photographers and nature lovers.
After enjoying the sunrise, you’ll have a simple Vietnamese breakfast or a hot coffee. The tour then continues to Cau Dat Tea Village, where you can walk among green tea hills and wind turbines with beautiful panoramic views. Along the way, you’ll also visit a local farm where the famous dried persimmons of Dalat are produced.
The tour ends at the impressive Linh Phuoc Pagoda, known for its colorful mosaics and enormous glass dragon. Around 10 a.m., you’ll return to Dalat, ready to explore even more things to do in Dalat.
Want to experience this unique sunrise above the clouds yourself? Check out the cloud hunting tour in Dalat and reserve your spot.
15 – Dalat countryside tour including Mongo Land
Would you like to discover the culture and nature around Dalat while also having some fun along the way? Then this Dalat countryside tour is a great and varied experience. During this day trip, you combine nature, local traditions, and several surprising stops.
The first stop is Mongo Land, a playful and colorful park just outside Dalat. The park is inspired by the landscapes of Mongolia. You’ll find sand dunes, open plains, and decorations that resemble the Mongolian steppe. The place is especially known for its photogenic setting and fun activities. One of the highlights is the Rainbow Slide, the longest dry slide in Vietnam. This colorful slide winds through the landscape and makes for a surprisingly fun experience.
Afterward, you continue into the countryside. You’ll visit a coffee plantation, where you’ll learn more about Vietnam’s famous coffee culture. Here, you can also taste the well-known weasel coffee.
Along the way, you’ll also discover local crafts. You’ll visit a silk factory to see how silk is produced, and you’ll stop at a cricket farm, where locals raise crickets for food.
The tour ends at Linh An Pagoda, an impressive temple with a large Buddha statue and beautiful views over the surrounding landscape.
Would you like to explore the countryside around Dalat in a relaxed and enjoyable way? Check out the countryside tour here and plan your trip.
Where to eat in Dalat?
After a day full of sightseeing in Dalat, it’s time to enjoy the city’s culinary scene. Dalat has a surprisingly diverse range of restaurants, offering both local Vietnamese dishes and international cuisine.
A great place for lunch or dinner is Tiệm Ăn Đà Lạt Phố Restaurant. This popular restaurant serves delicious Vietnamese dishes in a cozy and stylish setting.
For authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Artist Alley Restaurant is a great choice. This small restaurant is known for its homemade dishes and friendly service. You’ll find both Vietnamese classics and a few international options on the menu.
An Cafe is another popular place to eat. Located in a lush garden, the restaurant serves fresh and healthy Vietnamese dishes. It’s a lovely spot to relax for a while.
If you’re in the mood for something different, Trang’s Cookery Restaurant is a great option. Here you can enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes prepared with great care and local ingredients.
Finally, La Viet Coffee & Restaurant is a good place if you want to explore Dalat’s café culture as well. You can enjoy brunch dishes, excellent coffee, and light meals in a modern setting.
Must-try specialties in Dalat
During your visit to Dalat, you should definitely try some local specialties. Thanks to the cooler climate, the city has its own culinary traditions with unique dishes and snacks.
The most famous street food snack is undoubtedly Dalat pizza, locally known as Bánh tráng nướng. This crispy treat is made from rice paper grilled over charcoal and topped with egg, spring onions, cheese, and sometimes minced meat or sausage. It’s a bit like a thin pizza and is especially popular at the Dalat Night Market.
Another local specialty is artichoke. Because of the cool climate, this vegetable grows particularly well in Dalat. You’ll often find it in teas, soups, and herbal drinks. Artichoke tea is especially popular among locals.
Dalat is also well known for its strawberries. The region has many strawberry farms, and you’ll find them in desserts, smoothies, and snacks throughout the city.
Another surprising treat is avocado ice cream (Kem bơ). This creamy dessert combines fresh avocado with ice cream and condensed milk.
Finally, Dalat is home to several cafés where you can taste Vietnamese artisanal chocolate, often made from cacao grown in the Vietnamese highlands.
Hopefully this article helps you discover Dalat during your trip through Vietnam. With these tips, it will be easier to decide which places and activities best fit your itinerary. You might even discover a few spots you would have otherwise missed.
Whether you enjoy nature, culture, or discovering new flavors, there is surprisingly a lot to experience in Dalat. It’s a place where you can slow down for a while and see a different side of Vietnam compared to the typical busy cities. Dalat is the kind of destination that adds something special to your journey.
Want to read more about Vietnam? Be sure to check out these blog posts.
Thanks for reading.
Yours truly,
Sarah
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