Traveling to Dalat: Fun Destinations and A-Z Experiences

July 12, 2020 16 mins to read
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You’ll instantly fall in love with Dalat from the first step, captivated by its serene atmosphere and the myriad names it carries, such as the City of a Thousand Flowers, the Land of Love, the City of Subtle Sorrow, and the Dreamy City. How to navigate and fully experience Dalat? Let’s explore the Dalat travel guide from Vietnampeace.com.

Situated at an elevation of 1500m above sea level, Dalat offers a calm and pleasant climate, making it the ideal resort destination for all types of travelers. The charming “City of a Thousand Flowers” boasts exciting quirks, including the absence of a traffic light system, the lack of on-duty traffic police at intersections, the absence of tourist-carrying cyclos, no air conditioning, no late-night hustle, and the absence of Lam Dong newspapers at newsstands in Dalat.

Ideal Time to Travel to Dalat

Unlike some seasonal destinations, Dalat can be visited year-round, showcasing its unique beauty each season. You can comfortably choose the most suitable time for your Dalat trip.

If you want to admire cherry blossoms around Xuan Huong Lake, the best time is from February to April when spring arrives. During this period, the vibrant purple phoenix flowers on the streets also begin to bloom, adding a sparkling touch to the gentle spring atmosphere.

In the sudden summer rain, Dalat’s beauty is astonishing and quickly fleeting, leaving visitors in awe. The tranquil atmosphere of a peaceful Dalat trip with the peculiar summer weather will intensify the unforgettable memories. The heavy rains in August enhance the allure of waterfalls, like Pren Falls, Pongour Falls, and Dambri Falls, as they cascade with added strength, creating a mesmerizing white froth.

Towards the end of the year, if you travel to Dalat in October, November, or December, you’ll witness wisps of mist hovering in the sky, giving it a deep blue hue. Wild sunflowers stretch towards the beautiful sunlight from October to December, creating a glamorous scene with the breeze. Delicate mimosa flowers line the hills like a painted picture. There are also numerous other vibrant flowers, such as white cabbage fields, sunflower gardens, velvet rose gardens, and grass fields. Each season, Dalat unfolds with its unique and captivating charm that never fails to enchant visitors.

To explore Dalat’s flowers seasonally and find the most beautiful locations for each season throughout the year, you can consider joining a day tour in Dalat – a city like no other.

How to Get to Dalat

You can reach this land of a thousand flowers to serve your Dalat travel.

By Plane:

For those wanting to save time, flying is the optimal choice. Dalat has Lien Khuong Airport, which is located 30km south of the city center. You can take flights from Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, or Jetstar to enjoy a resort vacation in the dreamy city.

Upon arrival at the airport, you can choose reputable taxi services like Mai Linh, Phuong Trang, or Thang Loi, with prices ranging from 250-300k to reach the city. If you’re traveling in a group of four, it can be a cost-effective choice. Alternatively, you can opt for the airport bus to Dalat City, which costs around 40-50k and takes 45 minutes to reach.

Additionally, for an extra 50,000 VND compared to a taxi, you can choose family or private cars, covering all costs, providing a clean and new vehicle, and offering personalized pick-up services without worrying about additional expenses.

By Bus:

Buses are suitable for those looking to save costs or enjoy the scenery on the way to Dalat. Though it takes longer, you can depart from major cities like Hanoi, Danang, Nha Trang, or Ho Chi Minh City.

By Motorbike:

Motorbikes are an excellent option for adventurous and budget-conscious travelers. From Saigon to Dalat it’s about 300 kilometers, taking around 7-10 hours by motorbike. While it takes considerable time and effort, it provides a fascinating experience, allowing you to discover beautiful landscapes.

Getting Around Dalat:

Choosing a motorbike makes you more flexible during your journey, and rental prices are around 100k/day. You can rent bikes at the entrance of Dalat Market on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street or Bui Thi Xuan Street. Given Dalat’s numerous passes and sharp and steep roads, a motorbike is a suitable option for exploring every city corner.

However, renting a car may be more suitable and time-saving if traveling with a large group or family members of different ages. Taxis are also a good option for those who prefer a more comfortable ride without the thrill of a motorbike.

In summary, the mode of transportation in Dalat depends on your preferences, group size, and the type of experience you seek, whether it’s the adventurous feel of a motorbike, the convenience of a car, or the affordability of a bus.

Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in Dalat

Explore the renowned waterfall clusters that you shouldn’t miss:

Pongour Waterfall:
Located in the Duc Trong district, approximately 50km from Dalat, also known as Thien Thai Waterfall. Pongour is a 7-tier waterfall with a height of nearly 40m, spreading over 100m, surrounded by lush and diverse vegetation.

Prenn Waterfall:

During the rainy season, a substantial amount of water flows, resembling a grand welcoming gate. Tourists seem captivated by the majestic natural beauty. From Prenn waterfall, you can enjoy the expansive pine hills.

Datanla Waterfall:

Situated at the foot of the Dalat Pass, it comprises seven layers of rocky mountains, with waterfalls cascading down and forming layers of white foam. Besides admiring the majestic beauty of the waterfall, you also have the opportunity to experience exciting and enticing climbing activities.

Cam Ly Waterfall:

Though only 10m high, it exudes a gentle yet powerful charm. The waterfall has been immortalized in poems associated with Dalat’s image:

“…Dalat, not far away
Cam Ly ached in a long distance
The Valley is empty of sobs
through a ferry and a stream…”

– Excerpt from “Dalat is not far away” by Phan Thanh Minh –

Elephant Falls:

Also known as Lieng Rwoa waterfall, it is located 25 km from Dalat to the Southwest, with a height of about 30m and a width of 15m. Behind the waterfall is a mysterious cave like the Bat and Wind cave, allowing visitors to explore.

Explore the breathtaking lakes:

Xuan Huong Lake:

A symbol of Dalat, located in the city center with a crescent shape. Early mornings and evenings are always bustling, with visitors strolling around the lake. Xuan Huong Lake offers various services for renting a tandem bike or duck boat and enjoying coffee along the lake.

Ho Da Nhim:

Also known as Don Duong Lake, located in Dran town, 40km from Dalat. The lake features a harmonious natural landscape between the countryside and the sky. From here, you can explore Ngoan Muc Pass, one of the most extensive passes in Vietnam.

Tuyen Lam Lake:

Surrounded by small colorful flower gardens, the lake is 7km from the center, enveloped by ancient forest, offering always fresh and cool air.

Ho Dan Kia (Dankia) – Suoi Vang Lake:

12km from the city center, the scenic route seems like entering a fairyland. Here, you can choose to have a picnic.

Than Tho Lake:

Located north of the city on the surrounding high hill, surrounded by pine forest. To fully appreciate the beauty of Than Tho Lake, take a leisurely walk on the green grass. Numerous tourist activities are available for you to participate in.

Beautiful Check-in Spots in Dalat

Dalat Train Station:

An appealing tourist spot, encapsulating many cultural values of Dalat in general and its people in particular. Built in 1932 and completed in 6 years, the station is no longer operational but serves tourists from the city to Trai Mat.

Dalat Flower Gardens:

This land gathers beautiful flowers from around the world, making these flower gardens the ideal check-in spot when introducing the beauty of Dalat.

Valley of Love:

Located 5km from the center, covering an area of up to 140ha. This is one of the romantic tourist areas that captivates visitors and serves as a venue for outdoor activities and camping. Additionally, there are many fun activities such as horseback riding, duck pedaling, jeep rides, paintball, etc.

Cu Lan Village:

A relatively new tourist destination. Here, tourists can learn about the honest and straightforward culture of the K’ho people. Cu Lan Village is in Suoi Can, Lat Commune, Lac Duong District. Although it’s a new destination, tourists have had beautiful impressions and positive reviews about this tourist destination.

The Lonely Pine Tree:

The Lonely Pine Tree is a trendy destination often sought after by young people for its romantic and serene ambiance. In front of the tree is a large, calm lake, and behind it is an empty hill, creating a solitary and quiet space amidst the mountains and forests. Feeling the fresh mountain air and being silent before the peaceful beauty of the land and sky will bring you a new energy source. This place is also suitable for camping trips and overnight picnics with friends and family. A small note is that the road to the pine tree is quite challenging, so wearing comfortable shoes or sneakers for convenient movement is recommended. You can also hire locals or motorbike taxis in this area for a reasonable price.

Langbiang Mountain:

12km from Dalat, in Lac Duong town, Lac Duong district, Lam Dong province. The mountain has an elevation of 2,169m above sea level. This is the most attractive sightseeing spot everyone wants to visit.

Dream Hill:

A new tourist area that combines traditional beauty with modernity. Dream Hill has a lake, restaurant, souvenir shop, entertainment area, and impressive music and dance performances.

Dalat’s Historical and Cultural – Spiritual Landmarks

Bao Dai Palace:

Built from 1933 to 1938, this was the residence and workplace of the last king of the Nguyen dynasty. French architects and Vietnamese architect Huynh Tan Phat did the entire design of Bao Dai Palace. Therefore, the palace is influenced by European architecture.

Tran Le Xuan Villa:

Comprising three villas (Bach Ngoc, Lam Ngoc, and Hong Ngoc), it was considered the “first heaven of the South” at that time. With an area of 13,000m2, it was inaugurated in 1958. It is located on Lam Son Hill, 3km from the city center.

Truc Lam Zen Monastery:

Construction started in 1993 and was inaugurated on March 19, 1994. The monastery exudes a tranquil and detached beauty, making it an ideal sightseeing spot for travelers seeking peace.

Cathedral of St. Nicholas of Bari:

Located on Tran Phu Street, it is the largest church in Dalat and one of the buildings left by the French. On top of the bell tower is a giant rooster.

Dalat College of Education:

Highlighted by an arched building called the bell tower. The World Architects Association recognizes this building as one of the 1,000 unique buildings of the 20th century. However, the college has stopped accepting tourists on weekdays, so plan accordingly if you want to visit.

These are just a few enchanting places you can explore in Dalat. The city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique attractions, making it a must-visit Vietnam destination.

Da Lat tourist destination to take beautiful photos.

Lavender Flower Garden (Vườn Hoa Oải Hương):

Da Lat now has lavender flower gardens in Van Thanh Village near Tuyen Lam Lake. Lavender flowers, with their prominent purple color and fragrance, symbolize loyalty. This is a favorite destination among young people for photography.

Lam Vien Square (Quảng Trường Lâm Viên):

Next to Xuan Huong Lake, Lam Vien Square is a bustling area with numerous dining and entertainment services. The unique glass structures inspired by artichoke flowers and wild sunflowers, two symbols of Dalat, make it an attractive spot for young people to take stunning photos. The square also offers various local snacks such as strawberry shakes, grilled rice cakes, soy milk, and a coffee shop within the artichoke flower, known for its delicious treats. Adjacent to the square is the Big C supermarket, serving mainly the residents’ shopping needs.

Buckwheat flower fields :

Buckwheat flower fields seem to expand as far as the eye can see, always urging backpackers to come to Ta Nung commune, Lam Ha district. The delicate flowers are pink and white, expressing gentle and shy beauty. Located on the road to Elephant Falls, young people will easily combine these tourist destinations in the day.

Van Thanh Flower Village (Làng Hoa Vạn Thành):

Situated 3km from the city center, you will be overwhelmed by the magnificent scenery, feeling as if you are immersed in a land of a thousand flowers. From pure white and straightforward flower gardens to gentle pink shades and vibrant yellow hues in the sunlight, as well as faithful purple and dazzling red, Van Thanh Flower Village offers a diverse and vibrant palette for photography.

While exploring these beautiful places in Dalat, having a Dalat tourist map with you will certainly enhance your travel experience.

Additional Culinary Delights in Da Lat:

  • Steam Thin Rice Pancake Dinh Street (available from 2 pm to 8 pm).
  • Banh Beo (Steam Rice Cake) at 228 Phan Dinh Phung Street (priced at 20k for four pieces).
  • Banh canh Xuan An (Vietnamese thick noodle soup) at 15 Nha Chung Street (25 – 30k per bowl).
  • Banh Trang Nuong (Grill Rice Paper) at 112 Nguyen Van Troi Street.
  • Strawberry ice cream at 242D Phan Dinh Phung Street (priced at 8k per cup).
  • Quang Noodles at A29 Mac Dinh Chi Street.
  • Avocado ice cream at Nguyen Van Troi Street.
  • Barbecue Cu Duc specializes in Tay Nguyen specialties.
  • Tai Ky Restaurant at 1/A2 Bui Thi Xuan Street.
  • Sweet Soup at the corner of Hung Vuong – Tran Quy Cap Street.
  • Thanh Tri Rice Roll at Tran Quy Cap Street (priced at 20k per plate).

Beautiful cafe in Da Lat

Thongdalat. space

Thongdalat. Space Cafe is located at 90 Bui Thi Xuan, and the tree nurseries inspire the shop in Da Lat. This will be a place to bring inspiration, nurture young people’s dreams, and a place for friends to meet. , sharing dreams and ambitions.

An Cafe

The cafe has five separate areas, with an area of ​​200m2, located on 3/2 Street, Ward 1, City. Da Lat. It is a must-visit destination in Da Lat for those who love nature and want to experience Da Lat most intimately. The unique thing about An Cafe is that you can see all kinds of vegetables and cabbages anywhere in the shop, from the small garden outside to the shelves, tables, and paths from one area to another.

It’s Viet

Located at 200 Nguyen Cong Tru, Ward 8, La Viet is a cafe where enthusiasts who love drinking clean coffee often “whisper” to each other whenever they come to Da Lat because you will see it with your own eyes here. The process of making a cup of coffee from clean coffee beans from the mountains and hills, and immediately, the air will be filled with the aroma of coffee, bringing an indescribable wonderful feeling.

Me Linh Coffee Garden

Me Linh Coffee Garden is located in group 20, village 4, Ta Nung commune, 20km from the city center. The shop is loved and sought after by many tourists traveling to Da Lat not only thanks to the authentic flavor of weasel coffee. But also possesses a unique view of Da Lat. Me Linh Coffee Garden is designed to be open, ensuring a full 360-degree view; right at the foot of the shop is a small coffee farm in front is Cam Ly Dam Lake.

Which specialty should I buy as a gift?

The experience of self-sufficient travel to Da Lat is to go wherever you go, enjoy the specialties there, and be ready to buy gifts for relatives, family, and friends that still meet the criteria: quality and affordability.

Dalat wine

Dalat wine is very famous and favored by many people, so it is sold in many places in Dalat. However, to avoid buying fake, poor quality, counterfeit goods, you should go to Da Lat winery at 31 Ngo Van So, Ward 9, Da Lat, to buy.

Dalat fruit

Other fruits: plumeria, kiwi, kumquat, and many types of jam are the most accessible foods to buy as gifts. You can buy it at Da Lat market, L’angfarm, specialty stores, underworld market, etc.

To enjoy strawberries, they only cost tens of thousands of dollars when bought at the market and will be 2 to 3 times more expensive if you buy them in the garden. However, with that price, you can take photos and pick the tastiest, most significant, and most satisfying strawberries yourself, one of the things worth splurging on, even if you are traveling to Da Nang. Lat is self-sufficient and aims to spend as little as possible.

Artichoke tea – A gift to bring back to relatives when traveling to Da Lat

Artichoke tea, Oolong tea, and coffee are all specialties tourists love and choose as gifts. If you want to select souvenirs, wood carvings, fire pen paintings, and embroidered paintings are all perfect choices for your loved ones.

Embark on a memorable journey with the extensive Da Lat travel guide from Vietnampeace.com, your ultimate companion in conquering every path and exploring the enchanting beauty of dreamy Da Lat, a land adorned with blooming flowers.

Dalat spring is sweet, with the pink of cherry blossoms blooming in every corner. Photo: Van Tuyet Vy

A beautiful purple phoenix corner. Photo: ST

Wildflowers kneel as a unique symbol of the Central Highlands region. Photo ST

Sân bay Liên Khương cách trung tâm thành phố 30 km. Ảnh: ST

Lien Khuong Airport is 30 km from the city center. Photo: ST

Di chuyển bằng xe máy khi du lịch Đà Lạt

Renting a motorbike is the most convenient and cheapest means of transportation (Collectibles)

Các hãng taxi khi di chuyển du lịch Đà Lạt

There are many reputable taxi companies in Da Lat for you to choose from during the move (Source: Collectibles)

The majestic beauty brings the breath of mountains and forests at Pongour Falls. Photo: ST

The majestic beauty brings the breath of mountains and forests at Pongour Falls. Photo: ST

Exciting experience games at Datanla waterfall. Photo ST

Địa điểm du lịch Đà Lạt - Hồ Xuân Hương

Ho Xuan Huong brilliant in the sun (Photo: collectibles)

The unique architecture of Dalat Railway Station. Photo: @ ngoc.du97

Những góc check-in cực chất trên đầu tàu hoả tại ga. Ảnh: @pqtkty

The best check-in corner on the train station. Photo: @pqtkty

Colorful flowers are impressive in the city flower garden. Photo: ST

Khung cảnh bình yên thơ mộng tại cây thông cô đơn. Ảnh: ST

A romantic, peaceful scene at a lonely pine tree. Photo: ST

Kiến trúc cổ điển mang đậm nét Châu Âu của Dinh III. Ảnh ST

Classic architecture imbued with Europe of Dinh III. Photo ST

The Cathedral also has another lovely name: the chicken church. Photo: ST

Artichoke buds on the square. Photo: ST

Công trình hình hoa dã quỳ hướng xuống siêu thị big C. Ảnh: ST

Flower-shaped building kneeling on the big supermarket C. Photo: ST

Da Lat triangle flowers usually bloom around September to October. Photo: ST

Bánh bèo chén - Món ngon Đà Lạt

Duckweed cake (Photo: collectibles)

Kem dâu tây - Món ngon Đà Lạt

Strawberry ice cream that is hard to resist (Image: collectibles)

Quán cà phê Thông Đà Lạt

The cafe is full of green

An Cafe - quán cafe đẹp ở Đà Lạt

An cafe with clean vegetables (source Foody.vn)

Là Việt - Quán cafe đẹp ở Đà Lạt

Cafe space is extremely “quality” (source collect)

Mê Linh Coffee Garden - Quán cafe đẹp ở Đà Lạt

Me Linh Coffee Garden attracts many tourists (collecting sources)

Các loại mứt Đà Lạt - Món quà làm quà khi du lịch Đà Lạt

Many types of Dalat jam for you to enjoy and choose from (Photo: collectibles)

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