Dalat Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Vietnam, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, is a country that beckons travelers from around the world. Among its many alluring destinations, the city of Dalat stands out as a unique highland retreat in the Lâm Đồng Province of Vietnam, known for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and French colonial heritage.
Dalat, often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring," enjoys a temperate climate year-round, making it a refreshing escape from the tropical heat found in much of Vietnam. Its lush surroundings, dotted with pine forests, waterfalls, and gardens, are a testament to the city's reputation as a haven for nature lovers.
One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Dalat Railway Station, an architectural marvel that combines European and traditional Vietnamese design elements. Visitors can embark on a nostalgic train ride through the picturesque countryside, offering a glimpse into the region's serene beauty.
The city is also renowned for its historic villas and buildings that showcase a blend of French colonial architecture and Vietnamese style. The Bao Dai Summer Palace, once the retreat of the last emperor of Vietnam, is a significant cultural site that provides insight into the country's regal past.
For those interested in horticulture, the Dalat Flower Gardens proudly display a vast array of colorful blooms, underscoring the city's status as a premier floricultural center. The nearby Valley of Love and Tuyen Lam Lake are perfect spots for picnics, leisurely strolls, and boat trips, offering tranquil settings and panoramic views.
Adventure seekers will find their thrills at the Datanla and Prenn waterfalls, where activities such as hiking, rappelling, and cable car rides add an element of excitement to the natural splendor of the area.
Dalat's local cuisine reflects the region's diverse agricultural offerings, with specialties such as artichoke tea, fresh strawberries, and the creamy "Bánh tráng nướng Đà Lạt" (Dalat's pizza) tantalizing the palates of food enthusiasts.
Dalat Attractions - What to See and Explore
Dalat offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Crazy House, Elephant waterfall, Trúc Lâm Temple, Domaine de Marie. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Dalat – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Dalat, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Po Klong Garai Temple (Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm), Po Klong Garai (Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm), Phước Bình National Park.
Best Time To Visit Dalat
Learn when is the best time to travel to Dalat weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Vietnamese cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful culinary tradition, bursting with diverse flavors and fresh ingredients. It emphasizes balance by incorporating five fundamental tastes that reflect traditional Vietnamese philosophy. Renowned for its fresh ingredients, minimal use of...
Cuisine
Curry
Curry is a remarkably diverse dish originating from the Indian subcontinent, celebrated for its rich and complex blend of spices and herbs such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili. Traditionally cooked in a sauce, curry manifests in various forms, each...
Pho
Pho, the beloved Vietnamese soup, is a staple in Vietnam, comprising a savory broth, rice noodles, herbs, and commonly chicken or beef. It's not just any dish; it's considered a national treasure, with origins tracing back to northern Vietnam in the early 20th century.
Noodle soup
Steamed rice
Cooked rice, often referred to as steamed or boiled rice, is a versatile staple enjoyed worldwide. Whether it’s made from Asian, African, wild, glutinous, or non-glutinous varieties, and whether it is whole grain or milled, cooked rice can serve as the foundation for...
Food
Lâm Đồng