Da Lat Vietnam Travel Guide: How to Plan Your Trip in 2025

Last Updated on August 11, 2025

Da Lat, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring” or “Le Petit Paris,” is a charming hill station nestled in Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Its unique temperate climate, pine forests, lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant flower gardens offer a refreshing contrast to the country’s bustling coastal cities. With this Da Lat Vietnam travel guide, you can plan the perfect itinerary for your trip.

Besides the Da Lat Vietnam Travel Guide, don’t miss 👉 Central Vietnam travel guide!

📌Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.

1. Best Time to Go: Dalat Weather by Month

Dalat enjoys a mild, spring-like climate year-round, making it a pleasant escape from the heat and humidity of other Vietnamese cities.

Dry Season (November to March): This is generally considered the best time to visit. Days are sunny and cool, with average temperatures ranging from 15-24°C (59-75°F). Nights can be chilly, dropping to 10-15°C (50-59°F). This period is perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and enjoying the clear skies.
Rainy Season (April to October): This period sees more frequent afternoon showers, though they are often brief. Temperatures remain mild. While the rain can sometimes limit outdoor activities, the landscapes are lush and green. This season also means fewer tourists and often lower prices. Dalat also experiences misty mornings, especially in the cooler months, which adds to its ethereal charm.

2. Getting There: How to Get to Dalat?

Dalat is well-connected domestically, making it accessible from major Vietnamese cities.

By Air:
- Lien Khuong Airport (DLI) is Dalat’s airport, located about 30 km (19 miles) south of the city center.
- Domestic Flights: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways operate regular flights to/from Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 50 mins), Hanoi (approx. 1 hour 45 mins), Da Nang, Hue, and Can Tho.
  - Book at Trip.com.
- Airport Transfer: Taxis, Grab cars (ride-hailing app), and airport shuttle buses are available. A taxi or Grab typically costs around VND 250,000-350,000 (approx. $10-15 USD). Shuttle buses are a more budget-friendly option, around VND 40,000-50,000 per person.
By Bus:
- Sleeper buses are a popular and economical way to reach Dalat from nearby cities.
- From Ho Chi Minh City: The journey takes about 6-8 hours.
- From Nha Trang: Approximately 3-4 hours, a scenic route through the mountains.
- From Mui Ne/Phan Thiet: Around 4-5 hours.
- Reputable bus companies include FUTA (Phuong Trang), Thanh Buoi, and Hanh Cafe.
  - Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season or holidays.
  - Book at 12go.asia.

3. Entry Requirements (for Vietnam)

Note: These are general guidelines. Always check the latest visa requirements and regulations with the official Vietnamese government websites or your country’s embassy/consulate before planning your trip, as policies can change.

Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam.
Visa Exemption: Citizens of certain countries (e.g., most ASEAN nations, South Korea, Japan, many European countries) are granted visa exemptions for specific durations (e.g., 15, 21, 30, or 45 days). Check if your nationality qualifies and for how long.
E-Visa: For many nationalities not eligible for visa exemption, an e-visa is available online. This is usually valid for single entry and up to 90 days. Apply through the official Vietnam Immigration Department website.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): This option requires an approval letter obtained online from a reputable travel agency before your departure. You then receive the visa stamp upon arrival at an international airport in Vietnam. This is generally not recommended if an e-visa is available, as it can involve longer queues at the airport.
Proof of Onward/Return Ticket: Immigration officials may ask for proof of your departure from Vietnam.

4. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Dalat?

Dalat offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts.

Budget (Hostels & Guesthouses): Many affordable hostels and guesthouses can be found near the city center, offering dorm beds or private rooms. Look around the Dalat Market and Xuan Huong Lake areas.
Mid-Range (Boutique Hotels & Homestays): Dalat is known for its charming boutique hotels and unique homestays, often featuring French colonial architecture or picturesque garden settings. These offer comfortable stays with character.
Luxury (Resorts & Villas): High-end resorts, often with golf courses or stunning hillside views, are available for a more opulent experience.
Popular Areas:
- City Center/Dalat Market: Convenient for attractions, food, and night market.
- Around Xuan Huong Lake: Scenic views, close to many tourist spots.
- Outskirts/Hills: Offers tranquility, often with beautiful views, but requires more transport.
Booking: It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (e.g., December-February, Vietnamese holidays).
Book at Trip.com

5. Internet Access: Vietnam Sim Card / eSim Options

Staying connected in Dalat is generally easy and reliable.

Wi-Fi:
- Most hotels, guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi for guests. The connection quality is usually good for browsing, messaging, and video calls.
Mobile Data (SIM Cards):
- Purchasing a local SIM card is highly recommended for constant connectivity, especially if you plan to use ride-hailing apps (Grab) or navigate.
- Where to buy: You can buy SIM cards at Lien Khuong Airport, mobile provider stores (e.g., Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone) in the city, or sometimes even at convenience stores.
- Cost: A tourist SIM card with a generous data allowance (e.g., 5-10GB per day) for 30 days typically costs around VND 100,000-200,000 (approx. $4-8 USD).
- eSIM: Check if your phone supports eSIM, as many providers now offer convenient eSIM plans for travelers, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.

Provider	Where to Buy	Notes
Viettel	Airports, mobile shops, convenience stores	Best coverage in both cities and rural areas. Reliable for travelers exploring remote regions.
Vinaphone	Airports, mobile shops, convenience stores	Strong network in urban areas.
Mobifone	Airports, convenience stores (Circle K, VinMart)	Competitive data plans and good nationwide coverage.
Airalo	Online (Airalo app/website)	eSIM option—ideal for pre-arrival setup.
Nomad eSIM	Online (Nomad app/website)	Flexible short-term plans, no physical SIM needed.

6. Forms of Payment

Vietnamese Dong (VND): The official currency. Cash is king in Vietnam, especially for smaller purchases, local markets, street food, and independent shops.
ATMs: Widely available in Dalat’s city center. Look for banks like Vietcombank, Agribank, BIDV, or Sacombank. Be aware of withdrawal limits and potential transaction fees from both your bank and the local ATM.
Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted at larger hotels, upscale restaurants, major supermarkets, and some tourist shops. Smaller establishments, street vendors, and local eateries usually do not accept cards. Some places may add a surcharge (typically 2-3%) for card payments.
Mobile Payments: Apps like Grab (for rides and food delivery) allow you to link credit cards. QR code payments are also becoming more common in larger stores.
Exchange: Exchange foreign currency (USD, EUR) at banks or licensed money changers. It’s good to have a mix of small and larger denominations of VND.

7. Transportation Within Dalat

Getting around Dalat is relatively easy, with several options depending on your preference and budget.

Walking: The city center, around Xuan Huong Lake, and the Dalat Market area are easily walkable, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere.
Taxis: Readily available. Look for reliable companies like Mai Linh (green cars) or Vinasun (white cars), which use meters. Ensure the meter is on.
Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab/GoJek): Grab is very popular and convenient for booking cars or motorbikes (GrabBike). It offers upfront pricing and cashless payment options. Download the app before you arrive and set up your account.
Motorbike Rental: For experienced riders, renting a motorbike offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. Rentals are available from guesthouses or dedicated shops. Expect to pay around VND 100,000-150,000 per day. Always wear a helmet, have an international driving permit, and drive cautiously, as traffic can be unpredictable.
Xe Om (Motorbike Taxi): Traditional motorbike taxis are available. Agree on the price before starting your journey.
Private Car with Driver: For a more comfortable and customizable sightseeing experience, you can hire a private car with a driver for a half-day or full-day tour. Your hotel can usually arrange this.

8. Essential Vaccines and Precautions: Dalat Health Risks

Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss recommended vaccinations and health precautions.

Recommended Vaccines:
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccines (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella/Chickenpox, Flu, COVID-19, Polio, Shingles(>=50 yrs)) are up to date.
- Hepatitis A & B: Highly recommended for travelers to Vietnam.
- Typhoid: Recommended, especially if you plan to eat street food or in rural areas.
- Rabies: Recommended for travelers who will be spending a lot of time outdoors, working with animals, or visiting remote areas.
- Japanese Encephalitis: Consider if you plan to travel >= 1 month, spend extensive time in rural, agricultural areas.
Food and Water Safety:
- Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled or purified.
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it’s made from purified water.
- Be cautious with street food; choose stalls with high turnover and observe hygiene practices. Peel fruits yourself.
Mosquito-borne Diseases: While Dalat’s cooler climate reduces the risk compared to warmer regions, Dengue fever, Chikungunya and Zika is still a concern.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Wear long sleeves and pants, particularly in the evenings.
- Stay in accommodations with screens or mosquito nets.
Sun Protection: Dalat’s altitude means the sun can be strong. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses.
Travel Insurance: Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and personal liability.👉 Compare The Best Travel Insurances
Traffic Safety: Be aware of traffic, especially motorbikes. Look both ways and cross roads carefully.

Traveling to other destinations besides Da Lat? Besides Da Lat Vietnam travel guide, check out other travel guides and health resources:

9. Must-Visit Destinations in Dalat

Dalat boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, French colonial charm, and quirky attractions. Don’t miss these Da Lat Vietnam travel guide highlights in your Dalat itinerary:

Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse)

A surreal, Gaudí-esque architectural wonder resembling a giant tree house, complete with caves, spider webs, and whimsical designs. It functions as both a guesthouse and a museum.

Dalat Railway Station

One of Vietnam’s oldest and most beautiful stations, known for its French colonial architecture. Enjoy a scenic train ride to Trai Mat.

Xuan Huong Lake

The serene heart of Dalat, perfect for a lakeside stroll, paddle boating, or sipping coffee at a café with a view.

Dalat Flower Gardens

A colorful display of countless flower species that showcases Dalat’s title as the “City of Flowers.”

Tuyen Lam Lake & Truc Lam Zen Mon

A tranquil artificial lake surrounded by pine forests. Ride the scenic cable car and visit the peaceful monastery perched above.

Datanla Waterfall

A popular spot where you can ride the thrilling alpine coaster down to the falls. Great for families and adventure seekers.

Linh Phuoc Pagoda (Dragon Pagoda)

A dazzling temple covered in intricate mosaics made from glass, pottery, and beer bottles. Don’t miss the 49-meter dragon sculpture.

Bao Dai Summer Palace

The former summer retreat of Vietnam’s last emperor, showcasing royal life and French colonial interior design.

Dalat Night Market

A lively evening market filled with local food (try the grilled rice paper and hot soy milk), souvenirs, and affordable clothes.

Valley of Love

A romantic park filled with flower gardens, sculptures, and fun photo ops. Very popular among Vietnamese couples.

Coffee Plantations & Strawberry Farms

Dalat is famous for both. Many farms allow you to pick your own strawberries or try locally brewed coffee.

10. Must-Try Food in Dalat: What to Eat in Dalat?

Dalat’s cool climate and fertile lands contribute to a unique culinary scene, blending local ingredients with a touch of French influence. Don’t leave without trying these local specialties:

Bánh Tráng Nướng (Grilled Rice Paper Pizza)

Often dubbed “Dalat pizza,” this popular street snack features a thin rice paper grilled over charcoal, topped with quail eggs, minced pork, dried shrimp, spring onions, and various sauces. It’s crispy, savory, and incredibly addictive.
- Where to find: Widely available at the Dalat Night Market and street food stalls.
- Bánh tráng nướng TRANG – A street food stall praised for its flavorful, cheesy Vietnamese pizza with high-quality toppings at budget prices

Bánh Mì Xíu Mại (Meatball Baguette with Pork Meatballs)

A Dalat breakfast staple. Unlike the typical dry bánh mì, this one comes with a bowl of savory pork meatballs in a rich, tomato-based broth, served alongside a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
- Where to find: Many local eateries and street vendors around the city center.
- Bánh Mì Xíu Mại Chén – A cozy breakfast spot in a garden setting, acclaimed for its juicy pork meatballs, light bread, and kind hosts

Lẩu Gà Lá É (Chicken Hotpot with É Leaves)

Perfect for Dalat’s chilly evenings. This comforting hotpot features tender chicken cooked in a clear, aromatic broth with the distinctive peppery, slightly sour flavor of “lá é” (a local herb similar to basil), bamboo shoots, and mushrooms.
- Where to find: Specialized hotpot restaurants throughout Dalat.
- Lẩu Gà Lá É Tao Ngộ – A warming, herb-rich chicken hotpot—perfect for chilly Dalat evenings

Kem Bơ (Avocado Ice Cream)

A unique and refreshing dessert. Creamy avocado blended with coconut milk, topped with a scoop of vanilla or durian ice cream, and often finished with toasted coconut or dried fruits.
- Where to find: Popular at dessert shops near the Dalat Market.
- Kem Bơ Thanh Thao – Dalat’s legendary avocado ice cream spot, frequently cited for creamy texture and repeat visits
- Kem Bơ & Cafe Cham – Another top pick serving both coconut and avocado ice creams in a cozy setting

Nem Nướng (Grilled Pork Spring Rolls)

A popular Vietnamese dish, Dalat’s version often comes with crispy fried rice paper sticks, fresh herbs, and a special savory-sweet dipping sauce.
- Where to find: Dedicated Nem Nướng restaurants.
- Ut Hue Grilled Spring Rolls – A recommended place for grilled pork rolls served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce, offering rich local flavor

Dalat Coffee & Fresh Produce

Dalat is famous for its Arabica coffee. Enjoy a strong Vietnamese coffee (cà phê sữa đá – iced coffee with condensed milk, or cà phê trứng – egg coffee). Also, indulge in the abundance of fresh fruits, especially strawberries (many farms offer pick-your-own experiences), and unique vegetables like artichoke.
- Where to find: Coffee shops everywhere; fresh produce at Dalat Market and specialized farms.
- Tam Trinh Coffee – A standout coffee shop with farm-to-cup brews and stunning scenery, ideal for coffee lovers

Tips for Eating:

Don’t be afraid to try street food; choose stalls that are busy with locals and where food is cooked fresh.
Many Vietnamese dishes are served with a variety of fresh herbs and dipping sauces – experiment to find your favorite combination!
If you’re sensitive to spice, learn the phrase “không cay” (kong kye) which means “not spicy.”

✈️ Planning a trip to Vietnam?

Hope this Da Lat Vietnam travel guide is helpful! Check out my full Southeast Asia travel vaccine guide, Canadian travel insurance guide, or learn how to prevent dengue fever and how to prevent traveler’s diarrhea on the road.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Travel health recommendations, including vaccinations, can vary depending on individual health conditions, travel destinations, and other factors. Always consult with a healthcare professional, travel clinic, or pharmacist before making any decisions regarding vaccinations or travel health. The content of this article is based on reputable sources, but it is important to stay updated on travel health guidelines from trusted authorities such as the CDC, WHO, or your local health department.

Reference

(1) https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/vietnam?s_cid=ncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001