Dalat

What are the most recommended things to do in Dalat?

Visit Xuan Huong Lake for a relaxing stroll or boat ride.
Explore the Valley of Love with gardens and scenic landscapes.
Ride the cable car to Truc Lam Zen Monastery.
Discover Da Lat Flower Gardens and Dalat’s flower festivals.
Tour Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse) for unique architecture.
Visit waterfalls like Datanla, Elephant Falls, and Pongour Falls.
Wander around Dalat Market for local produce and street food.
Take a train ride on the Dalat Railway Station’s vintage train.
Explore French colonial villas and coffee plantations in the countryside.

Introducing Dalat

Dalat is a city in southern Vietnam and the capital of Lam Dong Province. It's renowned for its fresh air and abundant lakes, waterfalls, and pine forests. Dalat boasts beautiful scenery, with spring-like weather year-round, and a picturesque landscape when flowers bloom. The French initially considered Dalat a weekend getaway.

Da Lat is rich in greenery and vibrant with flowers. A variety of cultivated and naturally grown flowers, including cherry blossoms, orchids, roses, peonies, tuberoses, chrysanthemums, and wintersweets, vie for beauty year-round.

Tourist attractions in the city include Xuan Huong Lake, Lover's Valley, and the Thousand Carp Waterfall. In Lover's Valley, many indigenous people dress up as cowboys and perform equestrian shows. For 2,000 VND, visitors can take photos with them.

Climate and best time to travel

Dalat is located at a high altitude and is surrounded by mountains. The average annual temperature is around 12-24℃, with lower temperatures in the morning and evening, and a large temperature difference.

From February to March every year, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and red and white roses also compete to open, which is very beautiful; from June to August, local Vietnamese tourists come to Dalat to escape the summer heat, and Dalat will usher in the peak tourist season; from November to March every year is Dalat's dry season, with little rainfall and dry and comfortable weather, making it the best time to visit Dalat.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Crazy House

The Crazy House, Da Lat's most famous building, was originally a hotel, but its bizarre and exaggerated design has made it a popular attraction. Designed by the daughter of a former Vietnamese president, it resembles a dead and decaying tree. Entering through a large hollow in the tree and climbing a staircase of wooden stakes, visitors can climb the unique winding staircase to visit distinctive rooms, such as the Spider Room, the Tiger Room, and the Bear Room. The Crazy House is said to expand annually, resembling a growing magical castle, attracting numerous visitors.

Dalat Old Railway Station

Opened in 1938, Da Lat Old Railway Station is a must-see for local wedding photography and is considered Vietnam's most beautiful train station. The 7-kilometer railway line runs from Da Lat to the nearby town of Trai Mat, primarily serving as a tourist attraction. Its striking orange-red color scheme, with three pointed roofs and stained glass windows, evokes an ancient, exotic charm. The station features preserved vintage carriages and locomotives, as well as a section of the railway line used between 1928 and 1964, which are open to visitors for viewing and riding.

Mary Monastery, Dalat

Built in the 1930s, the Marie Convent in Da Lat doesn't have much historical value, but its vibrant pink design is endearing and charming, making it a popular spot for photo ops. It also houses an orphanage, kindergarten, and primary school for orphans, the homeless, and children with disabilities. Behind the church, nuns sell tourist merchandise for charity.

Most Popular FAQs for Dalat

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dalat was established as a French hill station in the late 19th century due to its cool climate. It became known as the “City of Eternal Spring” and is famous for its colonial architecture, pine forests, and flower cultivation. Today, it is a popular honeymoon and holiday destination.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dalat is located in Lam Dong Province, Central Highlands of Vietnam. Visitors can fly into Lien Khuong Airport (30 km away) and take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city. Buses connect Dalat with Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and other cities. Within Dalat, taxis, motorbike rentals, and bicycles are common.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Dalat is open year-round. The best time to visit is from November to March when the weather is cool and dry, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. Attractions generally open from 7:30–17:00 daily.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Most natural sites and parks: 30,000–70,000 VND per person
Crazy House: ~60,000 VND
Cable Car: ~70,000–100,000 VND round trip
Tickets are usually bought at the entrance (offline); online booking is rare.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is needed for most attractions. Advance arrangements are only useful for hotels or guided tours during peak travel seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Two to three days is recommended to explore the main attractions, waterfalls, and countryside. A longer stay allows for leisurely exploration and day trips.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Xuan Huong Lake
Valley of Love
Truc Lam Zen Monastery and Cable Car
Dalat Railway Station
Crazy House
Datanla and Elephant Falls

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours in English, Vietnamese, and sometimes French are available through local agencies. Audio guides are uncommon, but many attractions provide information boards.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Langbiang Mountain summit
Xuan Huong Lake at sunrise or sunset
Truc Lam Zen Monastery overlooking Tuyen Lam Lake
Pongour and Elephant Falls
French colonial villas with gardens

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Xuan Huong Lake, Dalat Market, Crazy House, Flower Gardens → Day 2: Cable Car to Truc Lam Monastery, Tuyen Lam Lake, Datanla Waterfall → Day 3: Countryside tour to Elephant Falls, coffee plantations, and Langbiang Mountain.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Dalat Night Market is popular for street food and local shopping. Some night tours offer countryside coffee experiences and star-gazing. No regular light shows, but flower festivals feature illuminated displays.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Dalat is busier on weekends and holidays, especially with domestic tourists. Weekdays and mornings are quieter. Peak times include Tet (Vietnamese New Year) and summer vacation months.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, cafes, food stalls, souvenir shops, and rest areas are available at most attractions. City areas are well equipped with restaurants and convenience stores.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

City attractions like lakes, markets, and gardens are accessible. Some waterfalls and mountain spots require hiking and may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (VND) is widely used. Larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops accept cards. Mobile payments are slowly expanding but not yet common everywhere.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

An Cafe (garden-style cafe)
Le Chalet Dalat (Vietnamese and French dishes)
Banh Trang Nuong stalls (Vietnamese pizza street food)
Windmills Coffee for local coffee culture

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many vegetarian and vegan restaurants are available due to Dalat’s Buddhist influence. Halal options are limited but can be found in some international restaurants or by special request.