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Vietnam has abundant waterway systems, as more than 2,360 Vietnamese rivers stretch 41,900 kilometres long. The rivers in Vietnam are legendary and have played a pivotal role in shaping Vietnam’s history, culture, and economy. From the extensive Mekong Delta to the peaceful waters of the Perfume River, the Vietnamese waterways are diverse and experience-rich. Visiting these lovely rivers in Vietnam gives an insight into its natural splendour and heritage. A leisurely cruise to a thrilling kayaking adventure or a visit to a traditional floating market, Vietnam’s principal rivers have something to be enjoyed by travellers.
Top 10 Beautiful Rivers In Vietnam
Discover the enchanting beauty of rivers in Vietnam, each offering stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and a glimpse into the country’s rich natural heritage.
1. Mekong River, Sông Cửu Long
The Mekong River is Vietnam’s largest, locally known as Sông Cửu Long or “Nine Dragons.” It originates on the Tibetan Plateau, runs through six countries, and then forms the vast Mekong Delta in Vietnam. The delta is a fertile region that produces more than half of Vietnam’s rice and is a principal hub of agriculture and fishing. The Mekong River is the source of life in Southeast Asia, providing a livelihood to millions of people’s economy. Its breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness have made it one of Vietnam’s most desirable rivers.
Location: Southern Vietnam, Mekong Delta
Entry Fee: Free
2. Red River, Sông Hồng
Red River, or Sông Hồng, is one of the most famous rivers in Vietnam, flowing from China to Vietnam and through the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. The river received its name due to the reddish-brown silt and is fertile for the surrounding plains; therefore, it is best suited for agriculture. Historically, the Red River has played a crucial role in the growth of northern Vietnam as a transportation route and as the source of the rise of ancient civilizations. It remains a source of life for the region, sustaining agriculture, industry, and daily life.
Location: Northern Vietnam, passing through Hanoi
Entry Fee: Free
3. Perfume River, Sông Hương
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
The Perfume River flows through Hue, Vietnam’s old imperial capital. It got its name from the flowers that pour into the river upstream and leave a sweet scent behind in autumn. The peaceful flow and environment of the river have long been a source of inspiration for poets and musicians. A boat tour along the Perfume River is a favourite of Hue’s tourists. Along its shores are legendary sites, among which are the tombs of the Thien Mu Pagoda and Nguyen Dynasty emperors. The Perfume River’s peaceful environment and cultural significance make it one of the most scenic rivers in Vietnam.
Location: Central Vietnam, Hue City
4. Ngo Dong River
Photo: Rod Waddington / Wikimedia Commons
The Ngo Dong River winds through the scenic landscape of Tam Coc in Ninh Binh Province. Sometimes called “Halong Bay on land,” the river winds through towering limestone karsts and emerald rice paddies. In harvest season, the rice paddies turn golden, and the emerald water contrasts with the breathtaking beauty. Boat trips along the Ngo Dong River are also a favourite activity among tourists, where local rowers row a boat with their feet—a special rowing method. The trip goes through three natural caves, offering a glimpse of stalactites and stalagmites.
Location: Ninh Binh Province, Trang An Landscape Complex
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: May to June
5. Nho Que River
Photo: NKSTTSSHNVN / Wikimedia Commons
The Nho Que River is among the loveliest rivers in Vietnam, famous for its turquoise crystal-clear waters flowing through the awe-inspiring Tu San Canyon—the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia. One of Vietnam’s most well-known rivers, the Nho Que, is a paradise for adventurers. Travellers can boat or kayak along the narrow river, flanked by massive limestone cliffs that form a canopy overhead. The river water’s emerald green colour contrasts with the dramatic grey rock cliffs, making it a photographer’s heaven.
Location: Ha Giang Province, near Dong Van Karst Plateau
6. Da River, Black River
Photo: Chánh / Wikimedia Commons
The Black River, or Da River, is one of the nation’s major rivers, running 910 kilometres and flowing through the northwestern mountains. It is a major hydroelectricity river, with the colossal Hoa Binh and Son La dams providing power to most of the nation. One of Vietnam’s most well-known rivers, Da River is popular for its captivating scenery and course, which is lined with mist-laden mountains and primaeval woods. Visitors cruise along peaceful lakes formed by hydroelectric dams aboard boats, enjoying pristine landscapes and distant views.
Location: Northwest Vietnam
Entry Fee: Free
7. Serepok River
Photo: Đông Hồ / Wikimedia Commons
The Serepok River is unique among Vietnam’s large rivers, renowned for its untamed, rapid currents and boulder rapids. It flows through the Central Highlands and is a key element of Yok Don National Park’s ecosystem, with high biodiversity and ethnic minority communities. One of the most famous rivers in Vietnam is the Serepok, with powerful waterfalls like Dray Nur and Dray Sap, which numerous tourists visit. The waterfalls create stunning natural pools where tourists have refreshing swims amid green forests.
Location: Central Highlands, Vietnam
Entry Fee:
Best Time To Visit: November to April
8. Thu Bon River
Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
The Thu Bon River is one of the most renowned rivers in Vietnam because of its pivotal position in the formation of the history and beauty of Hoi An. Running through the ancient town listed as a UNESCO heritage, the river has been a principal trade route between Vietnam, China, Japan, and Europe. One of Vietnam’s most beautiful rivers, Thu Bon, is especially romantic during the Hoi An Lantern Festival when multicoloured lanterns float down the river, a stunning sight. Visitors can take a sunset boat trip, enjoying the scenic beauty of Hoi An’s wooden houses and sparkling lights.
Location: Quang Nam Province, Hoi An
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: During the Hoi An Lantern Festival
9. Gianh River
Photo: Nguyễn Đông Sơn / Wikimedia Commons
The Gianh River is a historically important river among Vietnam’s large rivers, once the dividing line between northern and southern Vietnam in the 17th century. It has become a tranquil, lovely river with green mountains and fertile plains. One of Vietnam’s most famous rivers, Gianh, is known for its clear water, limestone caves, and hidden waterfalls. It flows through Quang Binh province, famous for the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which has some of the largest caves in the world.
Location: Quang Binh Province
Entry Fee: Free
10. Ben Hai River
Photo: Rolf Müller / Wikimedia Commons
Ben Hai River is the most important river in Vietnam, not due to its length but its historical context. In the Vietnam War, it served as the line of demarcation between South Vietnam and North Vietnam along the 17th parallel. The Hien Luong Bridge, spanning the river, remains a symbol of national reunification. One of Vietnam’s lesser-known rivers, the Ben Hai, is now peaceful, with monuments and museums lined up along the banks that remember the country’s history.
Location: Quang Tri Province
Entry Fee: Free
The rivers in Vietnam are not waterways but an expression of the country’s rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty. While the grandeur of the famous rivers of Vietnam, like the Mekong and Red Rivers, is conspicuous by its absence, the serene beauty of the beautiful rivers of Vietnam, like the Ngo Dong and Perfume Rivers, is awe-inspiring by its presence. Each river has a different experience to offer. Book your holiday with TripXL and indulge yourself in Vietnam’s breathtaking scenery.
Cover Photo: Anton Shuvalov / Unspalsh
