Dalat

Dalat
Also known as the Alps of Vietnam, Da Lat is situated at 1,500 metres above sea level surrounded by mountains. Da Lat is a true haven for lovers of the outdoors. There are loads of activities like mountain biking, trekking, rock-climbing and canyoning.
ratings
Category | Rating | Your Rating |
---|---|---|
adventure |
|
|
atmosphere |
|
|
culture |
|
|
food |
|
|
hiking |
|
|
nightlife |
|
|
scenery |
|
|
tourism |
|
|
Things to do in Dalat
-
Adrenaline-Pumping Canyoning Adventure in Dalat
Get ready for an epic day of adventure in Dalat's rugged terrain! This canyoning tour takes you through stunning gorges and waterfalls, letting you experience the natural beauty of Vietnam in a totally unique way. You'll start with some practice on dry land before tackling increasingly challenging obstacles.
The real excitement begins as you abseil down massive waterfalls, including a 25-meter beast known as the 'Washing Machine.' Feel the rush as you leap from 7 and 9-meter cliffs into crystal clear pools below. When you need a break from the action, cool off by sliding down natural water chutes or swimming in the refreshing streams.
With a small group size of just 6 people max, you'll have plenty of time to retry obstacles and soak in the experience without feeling rushed. The expert guides prioritize safety while keeping the energy high and fun flowing all day long. By the end, you'll be grinning from ear to ear, with memories and photos to last a lifetime. This is hands-down one of the coolest ways to experience Dalat's incredible landscape!
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Misty Mountain Sunrise Adventure
Get ready for an unforgettable morning in Dalat with this incredible sunrise hike. You'll start bright and early with a quick drive to the base of the second-highest peak in the area. As you make your way up the trail, the sky slowly brightens, revealing stunning views of the misty valley below.
Once you reach the summit, you're in for a real treat. Watch in awe as the sun peeks over the horizon, painting the landscape in vibrant hues of orange and pink. Sip on some local coffee or artichoke tea and munch on toast while soaking in the breathtaking panorama. Your guide will snap some amazing photos to help you remember the moment.
After heading back down, you'll get to experience a bit of local culture with a visit to your guide's hometown. Here, you'll dig into a delicious homemade breakfast featuring cheese yogurt and other regional specialties. It's the perfect way to refuel after your mountain adventure and get a taste of authentic Dalat life before heading back to the city.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Thrilling ATV Ride Through Dalat's Countryside
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the stunning landscapes of Dalat! Hop on an automatic ATV and zoom through scenic trails surrounded by strawberry farms, coffee plantations, and flower fields. As you climb higher into the hills, you'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping 360-degree views of Dalat and the majestic Langbiang Mountains in the distance. Keep your eyes peeled for water buffalo and wild horses roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Whether you're a first-timer or an experienced rider, friendly guides are there to ensure you have a blast. They'll give you a quick training session before heading out if needed. As you cruise along, you'll pass by aromatic tea and artichoke plantations, breathing in the fresh mountain air. For the best experience, time your ride to catch the dreamy cloud forests or a spectacular sunset from the mountaintop.
After working up a thirst on your off-road adventure, you'll head back to base for a well-deserved break. Kick back and relax with your choice of locally-sourced coffee, tea, or another refreshing drink from the Central Highlands. It's the perfect way to round off an exhilarating tour through Dalat's breathtaking countryside.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Dalat Adventure: Cable Cars, Coasters, and Culture
Get ready for an action-packed day exploring the best of Dalat! Start off with a cable car ride up Robin Hill for awesome views of the whole city and surrounding pine forests. Then head to Truc Lam Monastery for a peaceful walk through nature before hitting up Datanla Waterfall. This isn't your average waterfall - it's got the longest rollercoaster in Southeast Asia!
After lunch, things get weird (in a good way) with a visit to the Crazy House. This wacky building is one of the top 10 weirdest pieces of architecture in the world. You'll also check out the Old Railway Station and Van Hanh Pagoda with its massive golden Buddha statue. To round out the day, stop by a high-tech strawberry farm where you can sample fresh berries right off the vine.
Throughout the tour, your guide will share tons of interesting info about Dalat's history and Vietnamese culture. Whether you choose to cruise around by car or motorbike, you'll pack in all the city's highlights in one exciting day. From French colonial vibes to natural wonders and quirky attractions, this tour gives you the full Dalat experience.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Dalat Waterfall Adventure: Exploring Datanla, Pongour and Elephant Falls
Get ready for an epic day chasing waterfalls in the stunning mountains around Dalat! This full-day tour takes you to three of the area's most impressive cascades - Datanla, Pongour, and Elephant Falls. At Datanla, you can ride Asia's longest alpine coaster through the pine forests for an adrenaline rush. Then it's on to majestic Pongour Falls, with its seven tiers of rushing water surrounded by lush jungle. Cap off the day at powerful Elephant Falls, where you can explore the caves hidden behind the curtain of water.
Beyond just waterfalls, this tour gives you a taste of local culture too. You'll visit a traditional silk factory to see how the delicate fabric is made, sample some potent rice wine, and even try eating crickets at a cricket farm if you're feeling adventurous! The day also includes stops at a striking Buddhist pagoda and a coffee plantation where you can sip some of Vietnam's famous weasel coffee. With an English-speaking guide to share insights about the region, it's the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of Vietnam's Central Highlands.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Wander through Dalat Market
Dalat Market is a bustling hub of local life that's worth a visit, even if you're not planning to buy anything. The market is packed with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. It's a great place to sample local specialties like artichoke tea, strawberry jam, or dried fruits.
One of the best times to visit is early in the morning when the flower section of the market is in full swing. Dalat is known as the 'City of Flowers,' and you'll see why when you walk through aisles filled with colorful blooms. The scent alone is worth the early wake-up call.
As you wander through the market, you'll get a real sense of daily life in Dalat. Don't be afraid to try out your bargaining skills if something catches your eye. Even if you don't speak Vietnamese, a smile and some hand gestures can go a long way. Just remember to be respectful and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
-
Visit Lang Biang Mountain
Lang Biang Mountain offers a fantastic escape into nature, just a short drive from Dalat's city center. As you make your way up the mountain, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding valleys and pine forests. The cool mountain air is a refreshing change from the heat of lower altitudes.
There are a few ways to reach the summit. You can choose to hike, which takes about 3-4 hours round trip and gives you a great workout. If you're not up for the climb, there's also a jeep service that will take you most of the way up. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Dalat and its surroundings. It's a great spot for photos, especially if you time your visit for sunrise or sunset.
Don't forget to bring a light jacket as it can get chilly at the top, even on warm days. There are also a few small cafes at the summit where you can grab a hot drink and soak in the views.
-
Explore Crazy House
Crazy House is unlike anything you've ever seen. This quirky architectural wonder looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. As you wander through its winding corridors and oddly-shaped rooms, you'll feel like you've stepped into another world. Each area is themed differently, from the giraffe room with its long-necked furniture to the cave-like spaces that make you feel like you're underground.
The house is actually a functioning guesthouse, so you can even stay overnight if you're feeling adventurous. But even if you're just visiting for a few hours, it's worth taking your time to explore every nook and cranny. Don't forget your camera – there are photo opportunities around every corner, from the colorful stained glass windows to the tree-like structures that seem to grow out of the building itself.
Where to stay in Dalat
Best hotels in Dalat:
-
Dalat Wind Hotel (budget hotel)
Dalat Wind Hotel is a great find in the center of Da Lat. It's super close to Xuan Huong Lake, which is perfect for morning walks. The rooms are big and comfy, with everything you need - TVs, private bathrooms, and some even have balconies. Nothing beats starting your day with a coffee while taking in the view.
The best part? The staff. They're incredibly friendly and always ready to help you plan your day or book a tour. When you're tired from exploring, you can grab some BBQ at the hotel restaurant. It's pretty good and saves you from having to go out if you're feeling lazy. The location is spot-on too - you're right in the middle of everything, so it's easy to check out all the main attractions in Da Lat.
-
VX Hotel (budget hotel)
VX Hotel in Dalat is a cozy spot that offers great value for travelers. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Many guests rave about the friendly staff who go out of their way to make you feel welcome.
The hotel has a convenient location, just a short walk from restaurants and attractions in Dalat. With options ranging from budget-friendly rooms to spacious family suites, there's something for every type of traveler. The rooms on higher floors even offer nice city or mountain views.
While it's not a luxury resort, VX Hotel provides all the essentials for a pleasant stay at an affordable price. If you're looking for a clean, comfy home base to explore Dalat without breaking the bank, this place fits the bill nicely. The combination of helpful service, good location and tidy rooms keeps guests coming back.
-
Da Lat Lemongrass (homestay)
Da Lat Lemongrass is a cozy homestay in the heart of Da Lat that offers a great home base for exploring the city. The friendly staff go out of their way to make guests feel welcome, even accommodating early morning arrivals. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with nice touches like balconies overlooking the garden.
One of the highlights is the tasty breakfast served each morning, with both Vietnamese and Western options to choose from. The central location puts you within easy walking distance of the night market and many cafes and restaurants. For those who want to venture further, the staff can help arrange tours or motorbike rentals.
While not luxurious, Da Lat Lemongrass provides good value for budget travelers looking for a pleasant, no-frills place to stay. The homey atmosphere and helpful local tips from the owners make it feel like staying with friends in Da Lat.
-
Minh Chien Hotel (luxury hotel)
Minh Chien Hotel is a cozy spot in Da Lat with a lot to offer. The rooms are clean and comfy, with nice views of the garden or city. Staff are super friendly and always ready to help out.
The hotel has a great location, just a short walk from the city center. There's a restaurant on-site serving up tasty Vietnamese food, and a bar where you can grab a drink after a day of exploring. The breakfast gets mixed reviews, but there are plenty of cafes nearby if you want other options.
While some rooms can be a bit noisy, overall it's a good value for the price. The hotel provides bikes for getting around town, which is a nice perk. With its modern decor and helpful staff, Minh Chien is a solid choice for your stay in Da Lat.
-
Terracotta Hotel & Resort Dalat (resort)
Terracotta Hotel & Resort Dalat offers a relaxing escape by Tuyen Lam Lake. The resort's spacious rooms and villas are surrounded by pine forests, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the city. Guests can enjoy scenic walks along the lakeside paths or unwind at the indoor pool and spa.
The property features a mix of modern amenities and natural beauty. Rooms come with flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, and private bathrooms. For dining, there's an on-site restaurant serving Vietnamese and international cuisine. The breakfast buffet gets good reviews for its variety and quality.
While the serene location is a highlight, some guests mention it's a bit far from central Da Lat. But with amenities like tennis courts, a fitness center, and organized activities, there's plenty to keep visitors entertained at the resort itself. Overall, it's a great spot for those looking to relax and enjoy nature during their stay in Da Lat.
Best hostels in Dalat:
-
Hello Dalat Hostel (boutique hostel)
Hello Dalat Hostel is a budget-friendly spot right in the middle of Da Lat. The rooms are nothing fancy, but they're clean and comfortable with nice views of the city. You'll find all the basic stuff you need, and the best part is the staff - they're incredibly helpful and always ready to lend a hand with booking tours or even doing your laundry.
The location is pretty sweet too. It's on a quiet street, so you can get a good night's sleep, but you're still just a short walk from all the main attractions, cafes, and restaurants. In the morning, they serve up a simple but satisfying free breakfast with fresh fruit and eggs to fuel you up for a day of exploring. If you're looking for a laid-back, affordable place to crash while you check out Da Lat, this hostel fits the bill nicely.
-
Mooka 's Home (Backpackers) (hostel)
Mooka's Home in Dalat is a cozy spot that feels more like staying with friends than at a typical hostel. The friendly owner Van creates a warm, welcoming vibe and remembers everyone's name. The dorm rooms are spacious and clean, with privacy curtains on the bunks - a nice touch.
The rooftop terrace is a highlight, offering great views over the city and a place to relax. Every other night they host BBQ dinners up there, which is a fun way to meet other travelers. The shared kitchen and common areas make it easy to socialize if you want.
Location-wise, it's about a 10 minute walk to the city center, so you're close to the action but in a quieter area. Overall, it's a comfy home base for exploring Dalat, especially if you're looking for a laid-back, social atmosphere without a wild party scene. The staff are super helpful with booking tours and transportation too.
-
Tigon Dalat Hostel (party hostel)
Tigon Dalat Hostel is a cozy spot tucked away in the hills of Da Lat. With stunning mountain views from the terrace, it's the perfect place to chill out after exploring the city. The dorms have comfy beds with privacy curtains, so you can get a good night's sleep even in the bigger rooms.
The staff here really go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. They organize fun activities and family-style dinners that are great for meeting other travelers. There's a cool common area with pool and darts where people hang out in the evenings. While it can get lively, things quiet down by 11 pm so you can still rest up.
The location is a bit outside the center, but it's peaceful and you can easily grab a motorbike to zip into town. Overall, Tigon offers great value with its social vibe, helpful staff, and those amazing views. It's the kind of place that makes you want to extend your stay in Da Lat.