The best Southeast Asian countries to visit contain a remarkable array of attractions. Each has an abundance of natural beauty: breathtaking beaches, dramatic limestone karsts, and biodiverse wildlife preserves. You’ll also find historic art and architecture alongside contemporary galleries and boutiques, and a culinary scene as exciting and varied as the scenery.
This wonderfully diverse region has an astonishing amount to explore. Not only is every country unique, but individual cities and islands also have their own culture.
Here are some of the best countries to visit in Southeast Asia, whether you’re a city fan, a beach lover, an adventurer, or a gourmand.
Vietnam
Notre Dame Basilica of Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
More than half a century has passed since the fall of Saigon. In that time, Vietnam has reinvented itself spectacularly, rising to become a culture and design center.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Ho Chi Minh City, which many locals still refer to as Saigon. Among the historic French-colonial buildings, you’ll find galleries, fashion boutiques, and shops all highlighting homegrown creatives.
Stop to admire the Notre Dame Basilica of Saigon, a stately cathedral with Neo-Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. Everything from the stained glass to the red bricks that make up the facade was imported from France in the 19th century. Although the cathedral is currently undergoing restoration until 2027, it’s still remarkably impressive.
Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Next, walk a short distance over to the Reunification Palace, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. The place was more or less frozen in 1975, when tank No. 390 charged through its gates. The highly informative tours include glimpses of secret rooms and the real command chamber during the war.
If Ho Chi Minh City is the beating heart of Vietnam’s contemporary scene, Hue’s appeal is far more ancient. The former imperial capital is home to a collection of UNESCO-lauded palaces and shrines. Part of what makes Hue so special is that it possesses ruins from across multiple centuries.
Old Quarter in Hanoi, Vietnam
Last but certainly not least, Vietnam’s current capital, Hanoi, packs in plenty of charm. The broad, tree-lined boulevards of the Old Quarter are a vestigial remnant of the French-colonial era. Make your way past artisanal silk and metalworking shops to the placid shores of Hoan Kiem Lake. Here you’ll find the lovely Ngoc Son Temple, or “Jade Mountain Temple.”
Hanoi takes its coffee culture seriously. One of the most pleasant ways to break up the sightseeing is to pause in one of the many cafés here and people-watch or read. Beat the heat by ordering a cà phê sữa đá, the classic Vietnamese iced coffee.
Cà phê sữa đá
The coffee is especially potent, thanks to the use of a special filter called a phin. Plenty of sweetened condensed milk gives this its rich, sweet texture.
Another indulgent caffeinated specialty in Hanoi is an egg coffee, or cà phê trứng. This decadent treat is made by whipping egg yolks, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk together into a creamy, frothy foam.
Indonesia
Ubud in Bali, Indonesia
A sprawling archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is one of the most culturally and geographically diverse nations in all of Asia. More than 700 languages are spoken here and virtually every island has its own distinct customs. To explore it all would truly take a lifetime, which is what makes Indonesia one of the best countries to visit in Southeast Asia.
For many travelers, however, Bali is the primary stop. Over the past few decades, the Island of the Gods, as it’s sometimes known, has become one of the world’s most popular destinations. It helps that this place is blessed with incredible natural beauty. Here, you’ll find both white- and black-sand beaches, as well as verdant jungles.
If the idea of a meditation retreat surrounded by emerald rice paddies and ancient temples appeals, head inland to serene Ubud.
Uluwatu in Bali, Indonesia
If you’re looking to show off your surfing skills with an international bohemian crowd, Canggu might be more your scene. If you’re a lover of the finer things in life, stylish Nusa Dua or Seminyak should do the trick.
If beach clubs and parties speak to you, head to rowdy Kuta. Finally, to take in the sight of crashing waves from sheer vertical cliffs, Uluwatu is one of the best places to visit in Bali.
Whichever parts of the island you visit, be sure to feast as much as possible, as Balinese food is a real treat. While most parts of Indonesia are predominantly Muslim and keep halal, pork is a primary staple of Bali’s primarily Hindu population.
Babi guling
Babi guling, or whole roasted pig rubbed with spice paste, is well worth seeking out. Although Bali has fantastic fine dining restaurants, this is one dish best found in a warung, or more humble roadside eatery. The best vendors sell out by early afternoon, so be sure to get there as early as possible.
Admittedly, all of these spaces are far from the road less taken. While Bali has changed dramatically due to the influx of international visitors, there are still quieter spaces on the island. Pay a visit to Bali’s less developed north at Celukan Bawang, near the historic former capital of Singaraja.
Lombok, Indonesia
Or you could simply get off Bali altogether. Lombok, located a short boat trip away, still resembles Bali of 30 years ago. You’ll find well-developed infrastructure, yes, but the island remains greener and sleepier. It’s also blessed with some of the loveliest beaches in the area, typically with a fraction of the visitors.
Thailand
Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand is known for having an unbelievable diversity of things to see and do. From lush jungles to white-sand beaches, and street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
Start your journey in the fast-paced capital, a vast metropolis situated around the curves of the Chao Phraya River. Your first stop is the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
This stunning Buddhist temple is decorated with glittering mosaic tiles and gilded details. The namesake image of Buddha is carved from semi-precious stone with gold clothing and ornamentation.
Wat Arun in Bangkok, Thailand
Next, head to nearby Wat Pho, which houses an enormous reclining Buddha. Finally, hop on a riverboat cruise to admire Wat Arun, or the Temple of the Dawn, across the river.
As impressive as these historic sites are, the contemporary culture of Bangkok is every bit as compelling. Head to Talad Noi, an area near the river that has become a hub for local creatives in recent years.
Chinatown in Bangkok, Thailand
Art galleries, public sculptures, and boutiques selling locally designed clothes, crafts, and accessories can be found on almost every corner. Over on nearby Yaowarat Road, in the heart of the city’s Chinatown, you’ll find one of the densest concentrations of street food vendors in town.
No visit to Thailand would be complete without a trip to its beaches. The country has more than 1,400 islands, although two are by far the most popular. The first is Phuket, which is the largest island in the country. Once a center of tin mining and trade, the island’s spectacular beaches now beckon.
Phuket Town, Thailand
Phuket Town is considered a UNESCO City of Gastronomy for its distinctive food scene. Phuket’s dishes tend to be sour, spicy, and lean heavily on the availability of excellent fresh seafood. It’s unique; some of these dishes are tricky to find elsewhere.
Phuket’s cuisine also incorporates elements of Peranakan cuisine, or foods once associated with the Straits Chinese. The city’s historic center is also home to gorgeous, pastel-hued Sino-Portuguese architecture.
Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
For many travelers, Phuket is also a great jumping-off point to other nearby islands in the Andaman. Plan on a day trip to the nearby Phi Phi islands. This pair of islands has a special place in cinematic history. They’re also strewn with dramatic limestone karsts, which are perfect for climbers, and have plenty of places for snorkeling and diving.
While Phuket may be partially known for its lively beach clubs and buzzing restaurants, Koh Samui is comparatively serene. Pay a visit to Chaweng Beach, one of the largest and most popular on the island. Strolling along this sugar-sand beach lined with coconut palms and resorts is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
Malaysia
Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
From beaches and islands to mountainous highlands, Malaysia truly has it all. Most journeys here start in Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant, ever-evolving capital. Your first stop should be a very long elevator ride up to the top of the Petronas Twin Towers.
These connected 88-story buildings are the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world. Even though the Taipei 101 and other buildings have since surpassed them in height, they offer an absolutely jaw-dropping view.
National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Next, pay a respectful visit to the National Mosque, a beautifully ornate building surrounded by 13 acres of gardens. As many as 15,000 people can fit in this immense structure at one time. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit outside of prayer times, although it’s important to remember that this is very much an active place of worship and behave accordingly.
The island of Langkawi could not be further from this urban jungle. Known for its alabaster-sand beaches and turquoise waters, the so-called Jewel of Kedah is a tropical paradise.
Eagle Square in Langkawi, Malaysia
Officially, the name Langkawi refers to an archipelago of 99 islands, but the name typically applies to the largest. One of the most dramatic sights here is Eagle Square, which features a nearly 40-foot-high sculpture of a red-backed sea eagle.
One of the longest and most popular beaches on the island is Pantai Cenang, which stretches for over a mile on the western end of the island. With powder sands and waving palm trees, this beach is one that lives up to the hype. There are a number of high-end resorts along the waterfront, but the beach itself is open to anyone.
George Town in Penang, Malaysia
Although the island of Penang has its share of beaches, it’s better known for its unique history and culture. The entire historic center of George Town is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of colonial-era architecture. Keep an eye out for the colorful facades of Baba-Nyonya, or Peranakan houses.
These days, Penang is also home to street murals from artists all over the world, as well as some of the finest hawker food in all of Asia. From char kway teow, a Malay stir-fried noodle dish with cockles and Chinese sweet sausage, to Hainanese chicken rice, the number of options is overwhelming.
Singapore
Singapore
Since the rebirth of Singapore as an independent nation in 1965, the Lion City has become both a cultural and economic powerhouse in the region.
Much has been said about its sparklingly clean streets and cutting-edge infrastructure, all of which make the city-state a breeze to navigate. And while it’s true that the MRT runs like a Swiss watch, there’s so much more to this compelling place.
Start your journey in Kampong Gelam, an enclave where you’ll find Singapore’s Indian, Malay, and Chinese cultural roots all on full display. Keep an eye out for street murals as you wander down Haji Lane near the golden-domed Sultan Mosque. Next, make your way along Smith Street in historic Chinatown to soak in the architecture.
National Gallery Singapore
A visit to the National Gallery Singapore is essential for culture vultures. The Singaporean government spared no expense when it founded this impressive showcase in 2015. Today, it’s one of the finest collections of Southeast Asian art in the world. Although you’ll find works from around the region, there’s a special focus on local talent.
Finally, even if you have no interest in gambling, you’ll want to check out Marina Bay Sands, a popular landmark. This enormous complex houses a casino, yes, but also dozens of restaurants and other attractions. The view from the bar next to the rooftop infinity pool is worth the price of admission alone.
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Nearby, you’ll find the Gardens by the Bay, one of the world’s most stunning botanical gardens. Roam through the indoor greenhouses, which feature rare orchids and an oft-photographed indoor waterfall.
Even more eye-catching is the Supertree Grove, a collection of 18 futuristic-looking “tree” structures that are home to thousands of plant species.
Singapore
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