Dalat offers a refreshing retreat for locals and travelers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of larger cities and the oppressive heat and smog that often accompany them. While many visitors arrive here to relax in the area’s natural beauty, including its serene lakes, lush forests, rolling hills, and verdant plantations, there’s plenty of excitement for thrill-seekers. Here are the Top 10 best Things must do in Dalat.
1. Go Canyoning or Trekking
Top 10 best Things must do in Dalat that you can’t miss engaging in canyoning or trekking to explore this region’s rugged beauty and adventure. Canyoning offers an exciting adventure as you explore mountain canyons, slide down waterfalls, and climb over rocky terrain. Meanwhile, trekking takes you on captivating hikes through forests, waterfalls, and the stunning natural landscapes of Dalat.
You can go canyoning or trekking at various locations in Dalat. Some popular spots for canyoning include Datanla Waterfall and Elephant Waterfall, where you can rappel down waterfalls and navigate through rocky terrain. Bidoup Nui Ba National Park and Lang Biang Mountain are popular destinations for trekking, offering scenic trails through forests, waterfalls, and minority villages.
These treks provide ample opportunities to immerse oneself in the breathtaking beauty of Dalat’s landscapes and encounter fascinating flora and fauna. It’s a fantastic opportunity to unwind, breathe in the fresh air, and discover new things during your travels.
- Price for canyoning: from $30 to $50
- Price for trekking: from $20 to $40
The prices for canyoning and trekking programs in Dalat can vary depending on specific tour and the type of activities offered. For accurate and detailed information on pricing and specific tour packages, it’s best to contact Vietnam Trails Travel directly or read more our Dalat City Tour A Day.
2. Try Local Cuisine at Dalat Night Market
- Address: 6b Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ward 1, Da Lat City, Lam Dong
- Opening hours: 5:30–11 PM
- Map: Da Lat Night Market
Don’t miss out on visiting Dalat Night Market! It’s a bustling hub filled with goodies waiting to be discovered and belongs to top 10 places to visit in Dalat. There’s something for everyone here, from unique souvenirs and local crafts to trendy fashion finds. And let’s not forget about the Dalat street food – it’s a feast for the senses!
Here are some must-try dishes at the market to discover Dalat Night Life:
- Banh Mi: Vietnamese baguette sandwiches filled with meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Dalat’s version may feature unique local ingredients like grilled meats or homemade sauces.
- Vietnamese Coffee: Sample rich and aromatic Vietnamese coffee, which can be enjoyed hot or iced. Dalat is known for its locally grown coffee beans, offering a unique taste experience.
- Banh Trang Nuong: Vietnamese grilled rice paper topped with ingredients such as egg, cheese, green onions, and savory sauces. It’s crispy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick snack.
- Sua Dau Nanh (Soy Milk): Enjoy a refreshing glass of freshly made soy milk, a popular beverage in Vietnam known for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
- Khoai Lang Nuong (Grilled Sweet Potatoes): Sink your teeth into tender, caramelized sweet potatoes grilled to perfection over hot coals, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and smokiness.
- Strawberries: Sample the juicy and succulent strawberries grown in the cool climate of Dalat, known for their vibrant color and sweet flavor. Enjoy them on their own or as part of a decadent dessert.
- Avocado: Indulge in the creamy goodness of ripe avocados, often served with condensed milk or sugar as a sweet treat, or incorporated into smoothies and shakes for a refreshing drink.
3. Visit the Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse)
- Address: 03 Huynh Thuc Khang Street, Ward 4, Dalat City, Lam Dong
- Website: http://crazyhouse.vn/
- Phone: 02633822070
- Map: Crazy House
Make sure to visit the Crazy House, also known as Hang Nga Guesthouse, during your time in Dalat. This whimsical and surreal architectural marvel is one of the best things to do in Dalat. Designed by architect Đặng Việt Nga, the Crazy House is a unique blend of art and architecture, resembling a fairytale.
As you wander through its winding corridors and staircases, you’ll encounter surreal and fantastical elements at every turn, from giant animal sculptures to unconventional room designs. Each room has its theme and character, offering visitors an immersive and surreal experience.
Don’t forget to climb to the top of the Crazy House for panoramic views of Dalat and its surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, an art lover, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, a visit to the Crazy House promises to be a memorable adventure.
4. Explore Xuan Huong Lake
- Address: Ward 1, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Area: 5 square kilometers
- Map: Xuan Huong Lake
Exploring Xuan Huong Lake is the best outdoor activities in Dalat. This tranquil lake, nestled in the city’s heart, allows visitors to stroll along the paved promenade that encircles the lake and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and gardens. Renting a swan-shaped pedal boat or a traditional rowboat adds a touch of fun to the experience as you glide across the calm waters, enjoying the scenery from a different perspective.
In addition, you can have a picnic, take a horse ride, or ride a tandem bicycle around the lake to create cherished memories of this stunning setting.
For those seeking relaxation, finding a quiet spot along the lakeshore to sit and admire the lake’s natural beauty is the perfect way to unwind. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views and create lasting memories of your time at Xuan Huong Lake.
5. Visit coffee and tea plantations
In Dalat, Discover coffee and tea plantations that weave into the stunning landscape of the Central Highlands is one of the best things must do in Dalat. Vietnam is one of the globe’s foremost coffee exporters, with the highlands surrounding Dalat serving as prime plantation territory.
Coffee plantations let you dive into the journey of coffee, from seed to brew. Strolling through the fields, you’ll witness the care taken in harvesting and processing. And the best part? Tasting freshly roasted coffee, steeped in the traditions of Vietnamese brewing.
When you traverse the Dalat region, you’ll encounter expansive plantations dedicated to these beloved beverages. Depending on the season, you might spot countless tarps along the roadsides, where coffee and tea beans bask in the sun to dry.
There are several exciting places to visit coffee and tea farms in the Dalat area and nearby regions. Here are some popular ones:
Cau Dat Tea Hill: Located about 25 km south of downtown Da Lat, Cau Dat Tea Hill is a popular destination for visiting tea farms. It’s an ideal tourist spot to enjoy the magnificent natural scenery and participate in tea-tasting programs.
Me Linh Coffee Garden: Situated in Nam Ban town, about 30 km south of Dalat, Me Linh Coffee Garden is a popular tourist spot for those interested in exploring the coffee production process and enjoying freshly brewed coffee.
Lam Dong Museum: This museum not only showcases the history and culture of Lam Dong province but also features a tea and coffee garden for visitors to explore and learn about the production process.
Trung Nguyen Coffee Village: Located in Nam Ban town, it’s an attractive destination for discovering Vietnam’s coffee culture and enjoying specialty coffees.
>>Read more: What is the best time to visit Dalat?
6. Paddling a kayak at Tuyen Lam Lake
- Address: Ward 4, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Map: Tuyen Lam Lake
Paddling a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) on Tuyen Lam Lake is one of the best things to do in Dalat for nature enthusiasts. This stunning lake boasts a unique shape, meandering gracefully through the landscape’s natural contours. Gliding across the tranquil waters, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery at every turn.
The encircling mountains and hills adorned with lush greenery create a serene and idyllic atmosphere, making your kayaking or SUP experience a truly immersive and peaceful retreat. Take your time to experience in the beauty of your surroundings as you paddle along the shimmering surface of Tuyen Lam Lake, with the sounds of nature serving as your soundtrack.
7. Visit Bao Dai Summer Palace
- Address: 1 Trieu Viet Vuong Street, Ward 4, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Opening hours: 7 AM–5:30 PM
- Ticket price: 30,000 VND/ticket/adult; 15,000 VND/ticket/child (under 1m2)
- Map: Bao Dai Summer Palace
The Bao Dai Summer Palace is where the life of Vietnam’s last emperor and one of the best attractions in Dalat. Built in 1933, this refurbished museum preserves the original charm of the palace while providing insights into the royal family’s lifestyle.
The palace showcases many original fittings, portraits, and sculptures, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the imperial era. Although photography is not permitted inside the building, the exterior’s Art Deco architecture and lush gardens provide ample opportunities for impressive snapshots.
You can explore several parts of the palace open to the public, including the emperor’s throne room, office, bedroom, dining room, and the empress’s quarters.
To truly make the most of your visit, consider combining a trip to Tuyen Lam Lake with a ride on the cable car to Truc Lam Pagoda. Situated adjacent to the lake, the pagoda offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing a spiritual and serene complement to your lakeside adventure.
8. Explore Waterfalls in Dalat
Dalat is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, each offering unique charm and beauty. Here are some of the most famous waterfalls in Dalat that you can explore:
- Datanla Waterfall (Thác Datanla): Easily accessible from Dalat, Datanla Waterfall is known for its picturesque setting amidst lush greenery. You can descend to the waterfall’s base via an adventurous alpine coaster or hike down a scenic trail.
- Pongour Waterfall (Thác Pongour): Located about 50 kilometers south of Dalat, Pongour Waterfall is one of the largest and most majestic waterfalls in Vietnam. Surrounded by pristine nature, it’s a serene spot to relax and admire the natural beauty.
- Elephant Waterfall (Thác Voi): Named for its rock formations resembling elephants, Elephant Waterfall is another popular attraction near Dalat. You can explore the area via a series of steep staircases and paths, offering different vantage points of the waterfall.
- Dambri Waterfall (Thác Dambri): Situated in Bao Loc, approximately 90 kilometers from Dalat, Dambri Waterfall cascades from a height of over 90 meters, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Vietnam. You can take a cable car ride to get panoramic views of the waterfall and surrounding landscapes.
- Cam Ly Waterfall (Thác Cam Ly): Located just a short distance from Dalat’s city center, Cam Ly Waterfall is easily accessible and offers a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. It’s a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
- Prenn Waterfall (Thác Prenn): Situated along Highway 20, Prenn Waterfall is known for its picturesque setting and easy accessibility. You can explore the surrounding park, which features walking trails, gardens, and a suspension bridge.
These are just a few waterfalls waiting to be explored in Dalat. Each waterfall offers a unique ambience and attractions, making them all worth visiting during your time in Dalat.
9. Visit Linh Phuoc Pagoda
- Address: Trai Mat, Da Lat City, Lam Dong, Vietnam
- Map: Linh Phuoc Pagoda
Linh Phuoc Pagoda is one of the Best Things to Do in Da Lat. This stunning pagoda is known for its intricate mosaic artwork. When you wander through the pagoda grounds, you’ll be amazed by the colorful tiles that adorn the walls, depicting various Buddhist motifs and scenes.
Inside the main hall, you’ll find a towering statue of the Buddha, surrounded by offerings and incense.
One of the highlights of Linh Phuoc Pagoda is the intricate dragon sculpture that winds its way up the exterior of the pagoda. It symbolises power, strength, and good fortune, adding to the pagoda’s mystical charm.
Be sure also to explore the adjacent garden, where you’ll find beautifully landscaped grounds and serene ponds. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city, ideal for soaking in the spiritual energy of the pagoda.
10. Explore Dalat Flower Gardens
- Address: 02 Tran Nhan Tong Street, Ward 8, Da Lat City, Lam Dong
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Website: https://vuonhoathanhphodalat.com.vn/
- Phone: 02633837771
- Ticket price: Adults: 100,000 VND/ticket/person; Children (under 1.2m): 50,000 VND/ticket/person.
- Map: Dalat Flower Gardens
Dalat Flower Gardens is a delightful experience that promises to immerse you in the beauty of nature. As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances, with flowers blooming in every direction.
The gardens showcase various flora, including roses, orchids, hydrangeas, and many other exotic species. Each garden section offers its unique charm, from meticulously manicured flower beds to lush greenery and tranquil ponds.
One of the highlights of the Dalat Flower Gardens is the iconic flower sculptures that adorn the landscape. These larger-than-life installations are crafted from thousands of flowers, creating stunning works of art that captivate your imagination.
In addition to exploring the gardens on foot, you can take a leisurely tour on a traditional Vietnamese cyclo or hop on a guided tram ride for a more immersive experience.
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