Dalat is famous for its temperate climate, scenic landscapes, and unique architecture, it also is a favorite destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. From peaceful lakes to historical landmarks, this article below will show you the top 10 attractions in Dalat.
1. Xuan Huong Lake
- Admission: Free
- Hours of operation: Open 24/7
- Address: Tran Quoc Toan Street, Ward 1 (Central Dalat City)
Xuan Huong Lake is crescent-shaped and surrounded by lush gardens, pine trees, and historic architecture. Xuan Huong Lake is an ideal place for a walk or to rent a swan boat to paddle on the peaceful water. Whether you’re enjoying a morning stroll or having an evening coffee at one of the nearby cafes, Xuan Huong Lake is one of the must-see attractions in Dalat.
Travel tips:
- Visit early in the morning to catch the mist rising from the lake, offering a perfect photo opportunity.
- Bring a jacket as the lake can be chilly, especially in the morning and evening.
2. Dalat Flower Garden
- Admission: 50,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Address: 2 Phu Dong Thien Vuong, Dalat City
Dalat Flower Garden, located near Xuan Huong Lake, is also an iconic sightseeing spot in Dalat. With more than 300 species of flowers, from roses to orchids, this garden is a wonderful destination for flower enthusiasts as well as photographers. The vibrant flowers are a testament to Dalat’s year-round temperate climate.
Travel tips:
- Try to visit during the Dalat Flower Festival, typically held in December, when the gardens are in full bloom and the entire city celebrates with parades and floral displays.
- Prepare lots of clothes to live comfortably
3. Lang Biang Mountain
- Admission: 30,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Address: Lac Duong District, 12 km north of Dalat
Lang Biang Mountain Range is a famous trekking destination offering spectacular panoramic views of Dalat and the surrounding countryside. There are two peaks to explore: Radar Peak (accessible by Jeep) and the higher Biang Peak (which requires a hike). Lang Biang is also rich in local legends, often referred to as the “Romeo and Juliet of Dalat.”
Travel tips:
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to trek to the top and bring water and snacks.
- Check the Dalat weather before departure
- The Jeep ride to Radar Peak is a good option for those who prefer a less strenuous visit.
4. Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse)
- Admission: 60,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Address: 3 Huynh Thuc Khang, Dalat City
Crazy House is a surreal structure designed by Vietnamese architect Dang Viet Nga. Often compared to Gaudí’s works, Crazy House resembles a giant tree with winding staircases, tunnels, and quirky rooms, each with its own unique theme. This strange attraction is a great spot for families traveling in Dalat or architecture enthusiasts.
Travel tips:
- The structure has many narrow staircases, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
- Don’t miss the chance to stay overnight in one of the guest rooms for an even more immersive experience.
- Take a lot of photos when visiting there
5. Datanla Waterfall
- Admission: 30,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Address: Prenn Pass, Dalat City
Datanla Waterfall is one of the most accessible and popular tourist spots in Dalat. Visitors can walk down to the falls or take a thrilling coaster ride through the forest to reach the water. Once there, you can enjoy the refreshing scenery and even partake in adventure activities like mountain climbing and zipline.
Travel tips:
- For the best experience, take the roller coaster down to the falls and hike back up.
- Wear waterproof clothing if you plan to get close to the waterfall.
6. Dalat Railway Station
- Admission: 10,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Address: Quang Trung Street, Dalat City
Dalat Railway Station was built in the 1930s and is one of the oldest attractions in Dalat, renowned for its unique architecture blending local design elements with French colonial styles. Although the station no longer offers long-distance routes, it remains a popular tourist destination where visitors can take a short train ride to Trai Mat village.
The journey to Trai Mat offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Dalat Station is a piece of history with well-preserved buildings and vintage train cars, making it a perfect stop for those interested in the city’s colonial past.
Travel tips:
- Don’t miss the antique steam locomotive on display.
- The train ride to Trai Mat is a scenic experience and well worth the small additional fee.
7. Dalat Night Market
- Admission: Free
- Hours of operation: 5:00 PM – Late night
- Address: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Dalat City
Dalat Night Market offers a variety of local foods, clothing, souvenirs, and fresh produce. This bustling market is a great place to sample street food such as Vietnamese pancakes (banh xeo) or grilled rice paper (banh trang nuong — dubbed “Vietnamese pizza”).
The lively atmosphere and abundance of local goods make the night market a must-visit on your trip to Dalat. Additionally, there are often live performances by street artists, such as musicians, singers, and acrobats.
Travel tips:
- Be prepared to haggle for better prices on souvenirs.
- For food lovers, sampling the grilled dishes is a must
- Bring a jacket to keep warm
- Bring cash to pay
8. Clay Tunnel (Tunnel of Sculptures)
- Admission: 60,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Address: Tuyen Lam Lake area, Dalat City
Clay Tunnel is an outdoor art gallery showcasing large clay sculptures depicting the history and culture of Dalat. The sculptures range from life-sized historical figures to replicas of Dalat’s iconic buildings. This is a great stop for families and those interested in Dalat’s art and history.
Travel tips:
- Visit on a clear day to fully enjoy the outdoor exhibits.
- The location is near Tuyen Lam Lake, so consider combining both attractions into one trip.
9. Bao Dai Summer Palace
- Admission: 40,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Address: 1 Trieu Viet Vuong, Dalat City
Bao Dai Palace was the residence of Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam. The palace offers a glimpse into royal life during the colonial era, with well-preserved interiors and artifacts. Situated on a hilltop, the palace provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a must-visit destination for those interested in learning about the king’s life and his possessions in Dalat.
Travel tips:
- Hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.
- The palace is also a great place for photography.
- Don’t touch the artifact
10. Valley of Love
- Admission: 100,000 VND
- Hours of operation: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Address: 5 km north of Dalat City
Valley of Love with its picturesque lakes and pine forests is a romantic attraction in Dalat, perfect for couples. The Valley of Love offers activities such as boating, paddle boating, and hiking. There are also many themed gardens and photo spots where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Dalat
Travel tips:
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the surrounding areas.
Dalat is a city rich in natural beauty, history, and culture. From serene lakes to historical palaces and quirky architectural wonders, these top 10 attractions in Dalat offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking to relax in a peaceful garden or embark on an outdoor adventure, Dalat has it all. For additional insights when exploring Vietnam’s enchanting landscapes, visit Vietnam Travel Tips.