Coffee Tourism in Vietnam: 5 Must-Visit Destinations

Sprawled across the northwestern mountains of Vietnam, Sơn La is a picturesque province renowned for its breathtaking scenery, melting pot of ethnic cultures, and quaint small towns. Circled by large mountains, Sơn La is cooler than other parts of the country, providing the ideal climate for cultivating premium Arabica beans, resulting in a distinctive and flavorful coffee.

While in Sơn La, you can get a firsthand experience of the coffee cultivation process. From coffee-picking sessions amidst lush greenery to witnessing the traditional coffee processing methods, every step of the journey is an insightful and enriching. The region is also has beautiful hiking trails and numerous waterfalls making it a great place if you like outdoor activities, and provides a nice change of pace from bustling Vietnamese cities.

Dubbed the "City of Eternal Spring," Đà Lạt's cool climate and fertile soil have made it a coffee-growing hub. The city's coffee plantations predominantly produce robusta coffee, a bold and rich variety mainly used in Vietnamese coffee. Explore sprawling coffee farms, pick your own coffee beans, and learn about the intricate coffee processing methods passed down through generations. 

Apart from visiting the coffee farms, Đà Lạt is home to several charming cafes and coffee houses that offer an array of coffee delights, from traditional Vietnamese coffees, like cà phê sữa đá to creative coffee concoctions that will leave your taste buds in awe. The region also has a lot of outdoor activities, some spectacular hiking trails, and some historical sites that you can visit.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and it effortlessly blends the old-world charm with modern urbanity. Amidst the vibrant streets and historic landmarks, you'll find a thriving coffee scene that reflects the city's dynamic spirit. Stroll through the narrow alleys and bustling markets, where small coffee shops called "quán cà phê" are tucked away, offering a glimpse into authentic Vietnamese coffee culture. 

Try a classic phin-drip Vietnamese coffee, or indulge in trendy coffee creations that exemplify the city's innovative coffee scene.

Located in the heart of the Central Highlands is the charming city of Buôn Ma Thuột, the undisputed capital of Vietnamese coffee.

This region contributes significantly to the country's coffee export industry and Buôn Ma Thuột contributes up to 30% of the whole country’s coffee export volume. Home to sprawling robusta coffee farms, this is the perfect place to experience Vietnamese robusta coffee. Partake in guided tours of coffee estates to observe the meticulous cultivation and harvesting techniques that have made Vietnam the world’s second-largest coffee producer!

When it comes to experiencing Vietnam's vibrant coffee culture, Hanoi is the place to be. The capital city is dotted with countless coffee shops, each with its unique ambiance and charm. Whether you prefer traditional Vietnamese drip coffee or a trendy coffee concoction, Hanoi has it all. Exploring the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, you'll encounter numerous sidewalk cafes. 

Sit on tiny plastic stools and sip on a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee while observing the daily life of the locals passing by. Hanoi offers a unique coffee experience that should definitely not be missed. Along with that, be sure to eat from the street food vendors that dish out some phenomenal traditional Vietnamese dishes.