If you’ve been looking for a Dalat itinerary, you’ve found one of the best! I’ve stayed in Dalat multiple times, have driven around the whole area, and visited both touristy & non-touristy destinations.
After traveling throughout Vietnam, Dalat is one of my favorite cities because of its climate, cafes, and natural scenery.
So, I decided to share my experience in an easy-to-understand 3-day Dalat Itinerary, which is about the perfect amount of time to visit Dalat. But if you decide to stay longer, don’t say I didn’t warn you!
And I’ll be throwing in a bonus list of my favorite cafes in Dalat, because Dalat has (imo) the best cafes in Vietnam. I argue the best are in Dalat because they have unique concepts, views and are all very close to one another.
First, I’ll share some general travel information about visiting Dalat and then dive into the itinerary and the best cafes!
How to Get to Dalat:
There are a few ways to get to Dalat, depending on where you’re coming from.
If you’re motorbiking across the country, then that’s one option! But if you’re taking other transit methods, I’ll list them below.
From Saigon (Ho Chi Minh):
From Saigon, you can take either a flight or a sleeper bus. I always opt to fly due to accidents I’ve heard about on sleeper buses – and sometimes flights are almost the same price! So why not just pay for a flight for convenience and safety.
For the best sleeper bus, though, check out the most comfortable sleeper bus option. It provides blankets, privacy curtains, water, and even a USB charger (which may or may not work). The ride is about 7 hours.
From Hanoi:
There’s no sleeper bus option I can find from Hanoi to Dalat, so your best bet is to fly. Or you can take a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Da Nang and perhaps visit Danang & Hoi An for a few days. Then, continue from Da Nang to Da Lat, as I’ll outline how to do it below.
From Da Nang:
You can fly or take a direct sleeper bus from Da Nang to Dalat. The bus journey will take about 14 hours, and you can book on Bookaway or BaoLau. Read our article about Things to Do in Da Nang here!
From Nha Trang:
The fastest and cheapest way to get from Nha Trang to Dalat is by VIP Van. Yes, it seems they just slap VIP on anything in Vietnam—luxury or not!
I’ve done this route a few times, and it’s convenient because the pick-up and drop-off can be at your own hotel. But since the drivers don’t usually speak English and call on their way to pick you up, I just go to the main offices for pick-up/drop-off. If you’re staying at a hotel, though, they can help arrange it and make getting picked up easy!
There were multiple buses and vans, but I just went with Khanh Phong because their location was the easiest to find. This is their Da Lat van office and their Nha Trang office location.
Best Time to Visit:
One of the best things about Dalat is the weather, which is a break from the heat around Vietnam.
I’ve been a few times (twice in winter and once in summer), so here’s my take on the weather.
Visiting Dalat during the dry season is ideal because, well, it’s dry! With so many outdoor activities, you can explore the area without worrying about sudden heavy downpours. I ride a scooter in Dalat, so I also feel much safer driving at this time.
And while it can be hot, it’s nowhere near as hot and humid as the rest of the country. It’s a perfect break from the weather you usually find in Vietnam.
So, is it worth visiting during the wet season? Lasting from May until November, I was in Dalat during the rainy season in July for about 10 days. The first few days, the weather was okay, with some sunshine, but the last five days were grey and rainy.
I wouldn’t say don’t visit during the rainy season, but get yourself a nice raincoat, as you’ll need it to get around!
Add Dalat to any 2 week Vietnam itinerary fir an extra taste of this beautiful country.
How to Get Around in this Dalat Itinerary:
From my experience, a scooter is the best way to get around without having to rely on tours. If you don’t trust yourself on a scooter, here’s the best way to navigate Dalat.
The best way to get around to the main attractions is to stay in a central area so you can walk. Most places are within about 10-30 minutes of walking.
You can also take Grab around! It doesn’t operate too well the further you go, but Grab is good for attractions within about 20 minutes of the city.
You can hire a private driver or take an easy rider tour for things outside the city, which we’ll discuss later! I also suggest joining tour groups for attractions outside the city so you’ll be taken there and get the best in-depth experience with a guide!
But if you can, get a scooter for the most freedom to follow along this Dalat itinerary!
Best Places to Stay:
Centrally Located Stays in Dalat:
High/Mid Range Budget ($15-$40 for private room): Dalat Feliz Home or Moonstone Hotel
Budget (Shared room): John Cafe & Beer Homestay or RedHouse Hostel
Further Out (30+ minutes walking to central attractions)
High/Mid-range: EcoTime Villa (Private Room) or Rosie’s Home
Budget Shared Rooms ($2-$8/night): ZicZac Hostel or Bunk Bed in EcoTime Villa
Your Perfect Dalat 3 Day Itinerary:
I’m outlining this guide assuming you’ve arrived early in the morning or the night before! Feel free to adjust this Dalat itinerary to your needs, but I’ve arranged things to start with the city and then move further out.
This Dalat itinerary can be followed easily with your own set of wheels, by Grab, and we’ll even cover and EasyRider your for destinations further out.
Day 1:
Start the Morning at Xuan Hong Lake
There’s something so beautiful about starting your day at Xuan Hong Lake. The lake, which is in the center of the city, is nestled low, giving you great views of the surrounding cityscape. Plus, visiting in the morning (let’s say 8 or 9 a.m.), it won’t be too hot! Not that Dalat gets very hot to begin with.
A walk around the lake is the perfect way to start your day peacefully and get a good view of the city.
Try Bánh Mì Xíu for Breakfast
Now that we’ve woken up a bit from walking around the lake, we’ll grab a quick bite to kick off this three-day Dalat Itinerary. I’m not including a big breakfast because for lunch, I’m sharing an amazing vegetarian buffet, and I’m sure you’ll fill your plate.
Nonetheless, you have to try this dish called Bánh Mì Xíu in Dalat, which is perfect for any cool morning. The one in the photo is from 84 Breakfast Cafe, and it’s SO good. You can order just the bread and meatballs, but with the eggs and greens, it ties it together even better!
Visit the Pink Church/Domaine de Marie
The Domaine de Marie initially didn’t attract me from the pictures. Sure, it looks interesting — it’s a pink church! But once I went, I was actually quite impressed.
Built in the early 1900’s, it served as a church, school, and orphanage, among other things. The architecture caught my eye the most because it’s almost like stepping into a fairy tale. Built after the 17th-century Northern French style called “Norman,” the pink church and wood and stone create a truly unique space.
Remember to visit the courtyard! Most people stay out front taking pictures, but the courtyard is truly where it’s at!
Bao Dai Summer Palace
The Bao Dai Summer Palace was where the Nguyen dynasty’s last king had both a residence and a workplace—nestled up in the cool mountains of Dalat. As many Vietnamese love to visit Dalat to escape the heat around the rest of Vietnam, surely the king would do as well while having his own place!
There are three different palaces, but the Summer Palace (Palace 3) is the most popular. Built in the 1930s, it is where tourists can stroll through the rooms, see historical artifacts, and even rent costumes for photos!
Vegetarian Lunch at Quán cơm chay An Lạc Tâm
One thing I love about Vietnam is its vegetarian buffets! This one is a ride back into the city’s central area, but oh my goodness, An Lạc Tâm buffet is so good! It’s best to arrive early, say 11 or 12. The main issue with vegetarian buffets is that the food is sometimes cold, but I’ve eaten here at least 10 times.
The vegetarian pork belly is incredible! (Pictured above). The plate also always comes with a soup, usually costing about 30-50k, depending on what you get.
Travel to the Linh Phuc Pagoda (Trai Mat)
Next on your Dalat itinerary, we’ll head about 30 minutes out of the city to Trai Mat, where there are some epic views and well-worth-visiting religious sites. You could get here by driving yourself or taking a cab.
I’ve visited many temples around Asia and seen some impressive ones. The Linh Phuc Pagoda is one of the best I’ve been to! And yes, it was busy, but there’s a reason for it.
The amount of work that has been done at this temple is incredible! There are two massive Buddha statues unlike any I’ve ever seen. It’s truly like walking into a work of art.
Da Phuoc Cao Dai Temple (Trai Mat)
I found this place randomly on Google Maps and decided I needed to visit. It’s just up the road from Linh Phuc Pagoda and is truly a marvel. It’s not as impressive as Linh Phuc, but it stands out among the religious sites I’ve laid my eyes on.
Plus, you rarely find people here! Which is actually bizarre, considering how beautiful it is.
The temple’s architecture features a variety of styles. At first, this surprised me, but then I learned that Cao Dai is actually a religion that draws from Buddhism, Confucianism, Islam, and Christianity. That’s why you’ll see elements and styles from multiple religions in the building.
Unfortunately when I went the temple doors were locked, but I’ve seen photos from the inside and they are INCREDIBLE. Still, even just to wander around outside and take in the intricate work and bright colors is worth it.
Rest at the Hong Kong Cafe (Trai Mat)
I explored a bit more on Google Maps and found a very interesting cafe near the temples: The Hong Kong Cafe. It’s really like stepping into another world with its antique memorabilia, signage, and more. They were even playing some songs I recognized from Taiwanese artists, making it feel homey.
The drinks are a bit more expensive, but for the cafe experience, it’s totally worth it. There are multiple floors, photo ops, and views. I recommend sitting by the back where you get a sweeping view of the landscape and the train tracks where you might even catch the train pass by!
Eat Local Cuisine at the Night Market
The night market does become a bit much if you’ve visited multiple times like I have. BUT it’s worth one visit at least in any 3 day Dalat itinerary. Many vendors sell the same things, including sweet potatoes, yogurt, and strawberries. You can also go shopping for very inexpensive clothing and souvenirs.
One of my favorite things I tried here was a sweet potato. I bought yogurt and put it on top of the sweet potato, which was DELICIOUS.
Climb Around Maze Bar
The Maze Bar is a MUST VISIT, as I can guarantee you’ve never seen anything like it. Stepping into Maze Bar is like stepping into a fantasy-esque adult playground that’s also a piece of art. You have to buy one drink when you enter, and then you can wander and climb around the twisting pathways.
Just be careful because some sections can be dark, and some pathways (more like climbways) can be a bit challenging. So, while Maze Bar is super cool, it’s a bit of a hazard if you aren’t careful!
Day 2:
Get Historical at the Dalat Railway Museum
Once upon a time, Dalat was connected via railways. Yet, during the war in 1972, the railway line was destroyed. It was restored again after that, but it only ran for a short time before being abandoned.
Today, though, the Dalat Railway Museum is a charming place to visit. There are vintage trains to see, a cafe in an old rail car, and you can even take a short and scenic ride up to Trai Mat station!
While the historical train ride was tempting, I chose to explore Trai Mat on a scooter. This decision gave me the freedom to move at my own pace, without being bound by the train schedule.
Go on an Easy Rider Tour (if you do this, skip the Railways above! This tour includes everything below + more!)
So, if you’ve decided you’re interested in the things to do in Dalat below but want to avoid driving, check out this Dalat Easy Rider tour! The Easyrider is basically a private tour where you hop on a scooter and not worry about the rest!
Your guides will take you to the locations and share their stories, and all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride along the way! But if you’ll be driving yourself, keep reading below for my next suggestions on this Dalat Vietnam itinerary.
Visit the Crazy House
Ahhhh, the Crazy House! This is a fun one. The artist Dang Viet Nga studied architecture in Moscow. Later, she returned to Vietnam and worked on governmental projects. So when she started the Crazy House project in 1990, her imagination could run free!
The Crazy House is unlike anywhere you’ve ever been (unless you went to Maze Bar — which she also designed!) You could spend about an hour walking along the winding mid-air staircases and admiring the wild formations in every direction.
Afternoon Trip to the Linh Anh Pagoda
After some activities in the city of Dalat, today we’re taking another day trip about 40 minutes Southwest. Plus, the drive there is…well if you’re driving, be careful on the winding roads! With that said, it’s totally worth visiting here whether you drive or get an Easy Rider tour.
The Linh Anh Pagoda is genuinely a marvelous site to visit, from the giant Bodhisattva statue (the image of the learning Buddha) to the surrounding scenery. I was in awe visiting here!
The key highlights of visiting here are seeing the Bodhisattva (& going inside), the giant Maitreya Buddha (the future Buddha), and one of the most epic waterfalls in Dalat, which I’ll share about next.
Admire the Elephant Waterfall (Next to the Pagoda!)
Just below the Linh An Pagoda is the most stunning waterfall (imo) in Dalat: Elephants Falls! I had no idea about this waterfall until I arrived at the pagoda and was almost shocked. The energy coming from it is demanding — how can you not stare and admire it? Especially with the surrounding scenery, my goodness.
The photo above was taken from the top floor inside the Boddhisatva statue. However, apparently, you can also go down closer to the waterfall. I tried to find my way there, but I couldn’t find the path to get up close! Fortunately, there is a way, so hopefully, you have better luck than me!
Day 3:
The massive Tuyen Lam Lake is about a 15-minute ride south of Dalat. Surrounded by attractions, camping spots, and views, our third day on this Dalat itinerary will dedicate time to this area!
Sunrise Kayaking or Paddle Boarding on Tuyen Lam Lake
After some hectic travel around Dalat, one of the most relaxing ways to spend your final day is with a sunrise kayak or paddle board tour! Yes, you’ll have to be up early, but it will be worth it! Especially with some foggy Dalat mornings, a trip on the water will feel mystical.
There are a few tour options to choose from including this sunrise kayak tour or this stand-up paddle board tour!
Visit the Truc Lam Monatsery
After starting the day with a peaceful trip on the lake, the next stop will keep those relaxing vibes going. Just a short drive away, the Tuyen Lam Temple offers peaceful grounds to wander. But after seeing the sites above, the Truc Lam Temple isn’t as impressive.
Still, many come here to worship, and many monks live on site as it’s a monastic site. With lots of seating areas, it’s a great place to take a rest and immerse yourself in the peaceful energy.
Fly Down the Dalat Coaster
After a chill morning, there’s one last exciting activity you gotta do on your 3 day Dalat itinerary! Visit Dalanta Park and glide along the Alpine Coaster! The 2,400-meter-long alpine coaster is the longest in Asia, and you’ll fly through the trees! It makes for an exciting and scenic ride.
Here’s a tip for riding, though: avoid taking photos or videos! I know it’s hard because… well, I did. But really, I wish I had only taken one video because I felt that the ride was over so fast, and trying to make content definitely took away from immersing myself in the short experience.
There are two coaster options: one-way or two-way. I took the two-way route, which takes you from the park entrance down to the (bame) waterfall. From there, you can take a second coaster ride back to the entrance.
You can book your Alpine coaster ticket on Klook or in person. The cost is the same, so if you prefer to pay with a card, Klook is a better option!
In addition to the coaster, you can also do ropes courses and ziplining!
Sunset at a Flower Park or a Cafe
If there’s one final experience in Dalat, it’s catching the sunset. And Dalat has many fantastic flower parks and cafes with amazing views to watch the day turn into night.
For flower parks, the Thung Lũng Hồng flower park is super cute. It has a waterfall, strawberry garden, and spectacular views. I suggest arriving earlier to enjoy the park, take photos, and catch the sunset.
For cafes, I suggest Tiệm Cà Phê Túi Mơ To! It’s got an artsy vintage cabin vibe and incredible views over the valley. My friend suggested it for sunset, and while it was too cloudy that evening, the views were truly incredible.
Plus, the cafe itself is very cozy! On a cool evening, I got a ginger tea and hunkered down by a little table. There’s also outdoor seating on the balcony, so if you want a front-row sunset seat, arrive early! When I went, there were loads of people there.
BeerPub
I don’t go to many bars in Dalat, but when I do, it’s usually BeerPub. They have live music, an open mic night (Wednesdays), and a pool table downstairs. Both locals and foreigners hang out there, and I love going for the live music!
I recommend going on a weekend night or Wednesday for the most fun!
Other Things to Do on Your Dalat Itinerary: Even More Recommended Cafes:
Bicycle Up Cafe
The Bicycle Up Cafe is located near the center of Dalat, while small, is super charming. Everything rings of older days, from the bathtub which is now a flower planter, to the antiquey tables and chairs. They even have a little harp you can play (or try to like I did!)
Tiệm Cà Phê Túi Mơ To
This is the cafe mentioned above for sunset. The vibes are creative and vintage. The cafe is located a bit of a drive from the city (about 15 minutes), but it’s well worth it! There’s lots of seating options and it’s a great place to spend an hour or two to drink coffee or tea and watch the sky go by.
Quán Đương Cafe
This is certainly one of the most expensive cafes I’ve been to in Dalat, but it’s simply wonderful. The design is similar to the one’s above — but with a twist as there’s lots of books!
There’s three areas to hang out in as well. The one picture is in a small oasis below the main cafe — with plenty of space to work if you work remotely! In the main cafe building, the second floor is the star with an amazing view of the city.
Vintage 1991
The Vintage 1991 is like a green maze. Trust me, I was having to push plants out of the way trying to wander around here! The Vintage 1991 is loaded with greenery and seating areas tucked away in the jungle-like oasis.
The menu is small with Vietnamese coffees and a really delicious Banh Mi and egg breakfast plate. Plus the price is cheaper than the other cafes mentioned despite the amazing environment.
