Dalat - The 11 Best Places To Visit

Stunning natural landscapes range from Langbiang Mountain, Xuan Huong Lake to the Valley of Love. Regarding cultural and historical sites, tourists can admire the Bao Dai Summer Palace and Domaine de Marie Church. Plan your itinerary more perfectly and easily with the list of 11 worth-visiting attractions in Dalat City below.

Langbiang Mountain Dalat

Langbiang Mountain, occasionally referred to as Lam Vien Mountain, is a breathtaking destination located on the Langbiang Plateau in Lac Duong District, only about 12 kilometers from Dalat Downtown. The mountain is renowned for its natural beauty and the romantic legend surrounding it.

The name stems from two ethnic lovers, K'lang and Ho Biang, whose love story is immortalized in local folklore. Despite their deep affection, obstacles prevented their union. Tragically, Ho Biang fell ill and passed away, prompting K'lang to return to her tribe with the heartbreaking news. Jealous tribesmen arranged for K'lang's demise via a poisoned arrow. In a twist of fate, Ho Biang’s spirit intervened and was struck down by the same arrow, leading to the symbolic creation of Lake Dankia, known as "the lake of the Golden Stream."

Photo: dulichkhampha24.com

Today, Langbiang Mountain is known as the roof of Dalat with two prominent peaks: Lang Biang (2167m) and Bidoup Ban (2287m). From the summit, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of lush valleys and shimmering streams. The location is perfect for camping, bird watching, and appreciating nature with friends and family.

Reaching Langbiang Mountain is easy via both car and motorbike. Travelers can opt for a Jeep ride or trek for 3 to 4 hours to reach the peak.

Dalat Railway Station

Dalat Railway Station, located at 1 Quang Trung Street, Ward 10, in the heart of Dalat City, encloses Vietnam's oldest railway and is a stunning example of French colonial engineering, attracting many tourists.

The station showcases an architectural style strongly influenced by Art Deco, harmonizing perfectly with the surrounding nature and local culture. It features three prominently pointed roofs, each adorned with colorful glass windows, and a stunning clock at the apex of the central structure.

Photo: taptrikientruc.com.vn

Originally, two railways connected Dalat with Nha Trang and Saigon. The Dalat-Thap Cham (Nha Trang) line featured a unique 16-kilometer cog railway as part of its total 84 kilometers. However, the railways and station suffered significant damage during the Vietnam War and were renovated following the country's reunification in 1975.

While visiting the station, tourists should not miss the scenic train ride from Dalat to Trai Mat Station, which takes about 30 minutes. It operates five times daily (07:45 AM, 09:50 AM, 11:55 AM, 02:00 PM, and 04:05 PM). The ticket prices are approximately 120,000 VND for foreigners and 80,000 VND for locals.

Xuan Huong Lake

Xuan Huong Lake is conveniently located at the center of Dalat City and has long been a popular spot among both tourists and locals, celebrated for its serene and picturesque beauty.

This man-made lake has a unique history. Originally, it consisted of two smaller lakes formed by dams along a branch of the Cam Ly River between 1919 and 1923, which were later destroyed by a storm in 1932.

Photo by @HungTran

In 1934-1935, a larger dam was constructed, creating a significant body of water that was initially named Grand Lac by the French. In 1953, it was renamed in honor of Xuan Huong, a famous Vietnamese female poet.

This crescent-shaped lake, spanning approximately 5 kilometers in perimeter, offers a peaceful retreat within the bustling city. Visitors can engage in various recreational activities around the lake, including leisurely strolls, pedal boating, and tandem biking, which costs around 30,000 VND per hour.

Bao Dai Summer Palace

Dalat City is renowned not only for its stunning landscapes and mild climate but also for its array of French colonial architecture. Among these, the Bao Dai Summer Palace, located along Trieu Viet Vuong Street, 2.5 kilometers south of the city center, stands out as a must-visit property. Built between 1933 and 1937 during the reign of King Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam, the palace serves as a historical museum today.

Known as Palace 3, it is one of three palaces owned by Bao Dai in the city. The villa, designed as a luxurious summer retreat for the King and his family, features Art Deco architecture and is enveloped by a lush pine forest. Following the French return to Vietnam, the palace also served as the King's office.

Photo by @Diane Selwyn

The palace is a two-story building with 25 furnished rooms. The ground floor houses the King’s office, while the second floor accommodates living spaces for the royal family. Visitors can explore the King’s bedroom, which features a moon balcony for scenic nighttime views. The palace is accessible by both car and motorbike and is open daily from 07:00 to 11:00 and 13:30 to 16:00, with an entrance fee of about $1.

Hang Nga Guesthouse and Art Gallery (Crazy House)

It's rare to find a tourist who has visited Dalat City without taking a tour of the Hang Nga Guest House, famously known as the Crazy House. Located at 3 Huynh Thuc Khang Street, this unique structure is a true architectural marvel.

Designed by Dang Viet Nga in 1990, Crazy House is renowned for its whimsical design, which sets it apart from conventional buildings. Its tree-like form and imaginative concepts captivate the imagination, covering over 1600 square meters and featuring an array of rooms with unconventional windows, tunnel-shaped stairways, and wildlife sculptures.

Photo: dulichdalat.com

Visitors to Crazy House can experience a feeling of enchantment in the ten uniquely themed guest rooms, each named after an animal and infused with symbolic meaning. For example, the Tiger Room represents Chinese culture, while the Ant Room honors Vietnamese heritage. Each space boasts matching décor and handcrafted furniture that adds elegance and charm.

Today, Hang Nga Guest House operates as both a hotel and a whimsical dream museum for children and adults alike, welcoming guests daily from 07:00 to 18:00 with an entrance fee of 30,000 VND. Room rates range from $34 to $47 for single occupancy and from $47 to $84 for double occupancy.

Valley of Love in Dalat

Located 6 kilometers north of Dalat City’s center on Phu Dong Thien Vuong Street, Dalat Valley of Love offers a romantic escape for both locals and tourists, particularly honeymoon couples. Spanning 242 hectares, this picturesque valley features gentle hills and a shimmering lake at its heart.

Photo: truyenhinhdulich.vn

Initially named Vallée D’amour by the French in the 1930s, the valley later rebranded as the Valley of Peace under King Bao Dai before adopting its current name in 1953. As visitors pass through the entrance, they are enveloped by the valley's enchanting beauty, flanked by sprawling pine forests. The serene Da Thien Lake, created in 1972, serves as a focal point where guests can enjoy tranquil paddle boat excursions.

Further exploring the valley leads to vibrant flower displays and lush gardens, including the famous Vong Canh Hill, which provides a panoramic view of Langbiang Peak. Adventurous opportunities abound, including horseback riding, jeep safaris, and boating trips on the lake.

Dalat Market

Dalat Market, known as ‘cho Dalat’ in Vietnamese, is a vibrant must-see destination for first-time visitors to this region known as the land of flowers. The market functions as a bustling hub for thousands of locals and visitors alike.

Established in 1929, the original wooden market burned down in 1937. Subsequently, a new brick structure was erected in 1960 under the direction of Ambassador Lucien Auger, comprising over 1000 stalls catering to up to 6500 visitors simultaneously. The current market underwent restoration and modernization in 1993 for the city’s centennial celebration.

Photo: nld.com.vn

At Dalat Market, energy abounds, with trading activities occurring from early morning until midnight. Customers can explore a wide variety of fresh produce, delicious food, and unique local goods, including the city’s famous strawberries. The market is open throughout the day, and visitors are advised to haggle for the best prices while exploring nearby stalls for alternative options.

Linh Phuoc Pagoda

Linh Phuoc Pagoda is situated at 120 Tu Phuoc Street, Trai Mat Village, just on the outskirts of Dalat City, and is considered one of the most beautiful Buddhist shrines in the area. This sacred site attracts many visitors and pilgrims seeking spiritual solace.

Funded by the Buddhist community, construction of the pagoda began in 1949 and was completed in 1952. The main hall is adorned with intricate sculptures, with the most notable being the 4.9-meter-tall Sakyamuni Buddha.

Photo: wikipedia.org

A striking feature of Linh Phuoc Pagoda is the enormous 49-meter-long mosaic dragon's head, constructed from 12,000 glass bottles, which stands guard near the Maitreya Buddha at the entrance. This colorful dragon is one of the highlights of the attraction.

The pagoda also boasts a 37-meter tall bell tower, which is the tallest in Dalat and the heaviest in Vietnam, weighing 8,500 kg. Visitors can explore the pagoda daily from 08:00 to 17:00 at no charge. It is easily accessible via a 25-minute train ride from Dalat Railway Station to Trai Mat Village, with return tickets costing around 150,000 VND per person.

Domaine de Marie Church

Domaine de Marie Church is situated along Ngo Quyen Street in the heart of Dalat City. A visit to this church offers tourists an opportunity to worship in a structure reflective of 17th-century French architecture.

Distinct from other buildings from the same period, its design beautifully fuses French and Vietnamese styles, taking inspiration from the cathedrals of Normandy. The church features pink limestone walls, elegant stained-glass windows, and a notable statue of the Virgin Mary standing 3 meters tall.

Photo by @Joseph Nhan

Prior to 1975, it served as the main abbey for over 50 female Roman Catholic nuns, primarily Vietnamese, who managed an orphanage and a kindergarten. Visitors are encouraged to support the abbey through donations or by purchasing souvenirs. The church is open to visitors from 05:15 AM to 05:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, and begins at 05:00 AM on Sundays. Entrance is free of charge.

Datanla Waterfall

Datanla Waterfall is located near Prenn Pass, approximately 5 kilometers south of Dalat City. This attraction is popular for its stunning beauty and offers numerous outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. The waterfall cascades down 20 meters, creating a serene stream scattered with marble stones at its base. Surrounding lush flora and dense pine forests contribute to the waterfall's tranquil atmosphere.

Photo: dalatcity.org

Visitors can take a leisurely trek down to the waterfall, offering a scenic panorama of the greenery. Alternatively, thrill-seekers can opt for the self-controlled rollercoaster ride, which provides the fastest way down and is exciting for adventure lovers. Ticket costs are around 35,000 VND for one way and 45,000 VND for a round trip. An informational billboard at the entrance outlines available activities, including rope climbing and floating in the stream.

This natural amusement park is easily accessible by both car and motorbike, with an entrance fee of only 10,000 VND. It is advisable for visitors to bring their own food and beverages for convenience.

Dalat Flower Gardens

Known as the "city of thousands of flowers," Dalat City is home to a stunning variety of native and exotic flowers. The Dalat Flower Gardens, situated atop Cu Hill and just 2 kilometers from Dalat City, offers visitors a peaceful environment to admire the beauty of flora.

Photo: agrioly.com

Established in 1966, the gardens boast over 300 flower varieties that bloom year-round, featuring unique collections, including giant cacti, orchid fields, and rose gardens. An eye-catching entrance adorned with arc-shaped arrangements made from hundreds of flower species welcomes guests. A picturesque lake in the garden invites visitors to enjoy a boat ride on swan-shaped pedal boats.

Accessible by car and motorbike from anywhere in the city, the Dalat Flower Gardens are open daily from 07:30 AM to 04:00 PM, with an entrance fee of 30,000 VND. The best times to visit are during the spring and winter seasons when the flowers are at their peak beauty. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the Spring Flower Fair and the Winter Flower Festival, both held biennially.