Best 30 Places To Visit In South East Asia - Updated 2024

Moeko
Moeko 
Updated
| 15 min read

Your friend has just had the best summer ever in Thailand. A work colleague has gone to Malaysia for their honeymoon. Even your neighbor has gone to the Philippines; leaving you to look after their cat. Everybody dreams of taking a few months and going backpacking and now you too are itching to see what South East Asia has to offer. But where to begin? From visiting the historic Saigon Central Post Office in Vietnam to enjoying a Khmer lunch in Cambodia, there’s so much that it can be hard to decide where to go. Here are some of the best places to visit in South East Asia so scroll down to find out more.

1. Hanoi, Vietnam (from USD 27.5)

Hanoi (Hà Nội) is home to a population of approximately 7.7 million people, but Vietnam’s bustling capital city isn’t only about the masses of people. You can find beautiful moments of peace by taking a walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake and visiting Tháp Rùa (Turtle Tower). Visit Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature) which is the first national university in Vietnam, built in the early 11th century. Don’t forget to try some traditional Hanoian food; my personal favorite is Chả cá Lã Vọng which is a dish that consists of fried catfish cooked with dill and green onion, served with rice noodles. If visiting in the summer months, I highly recommend stopping by one of the many street vendors and buying a fan because it will be hot and humid.

Hanoi In One Day

Duration: 7hrDuration

669 reviews

2. Jakarta, Indonesia (from USD 21.99)

best places to visit in southeast asia | jakarta, indonesia
Source: www.klook.com

Indonesia is an archipelago made up of over 14,000 islands. Located on the northwest of one of the larger islands, Java, is Indonesia’s capital city of Jakarta which has a huge variety of ethnic and cultural groups. Having the majority of the population actively practicing Islam, Jakarta has the largest mosque in southeast Asia; Istiqlal Mosque. Within walking distance, you can also see the neo-gothic Jakarta Cathedral. Jakarta is a multicultural city where a large percentage of the habitants are Javanese and Betawi people, as well as Sundanese, Chinese, Batak, Minangkabau, Malays and Indos. While visiting Jakarta, try a traditional Javanese dish Sate (Satay) which is grilled meat skewers accompanied by spicy peanut sauce.

Jakarta Historical Tour - Klook

Duration: 3hrDuration

3. Bangkok, Thailand (from USD 124.14)

best places to visit in southeast asia | bangkok, thailand

The Thai capital of Bangkok (known in Thai as Krung Thep) is a city known for its amazing contrast between the busy street life and peaceful landmarks. You can escape the hustle and bustle by visiting the famous Buddhist sites such as Wat Phra Kaew, where you will see the incredible emerald buddha dressed in gold clothing. Another must-see is the 46-meter (150-foot) reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. If you’re able to get up early, I recommend seeing Wat Arun, the temple along the Chao Phraya River, at dawn; your early rise will be rewarded with a breathtaking view. If visiting in spring, be sure to try some khaoniao mamuang (mango sticky rice); a typical Thai dessert of glutinous rice with fresh mango and coconut milk.

Bangkok in a Day: Must-Visit Highlights Tour with a Guide

Duration: 7.0 hour

319 reviews

4. Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

best places to visit in southeast asia | ho chi minh, vietnam
Source: www.klook.com

Discover Vietnam’s most populated city, Ho Chi Minh City (Hồ Chí Minh; also known by its former name Sài Gòn), populated by over 8 million citizens and an average of 36 million travelers passing through daily. A city rich in culture and with a history spanning over several ethnic groups, the Ho Chi Minh, as we know it today, is a curious mixture of traditional and ultra-modern. Visit one of the many markets, such as Chợ Lớn (also known as Bình Tây market) or Chợ Bến Thành for great souvenirs. At the markets, you can also try the local street food such as bánh bèo, which are rice cakes with dried prawn and green onion.

Ho Chi Minh Tour - Klook

5. Yangon, Myanmar

yangon, myanmar
Source: www.klook.com

Yangon (previously known as Rangoon), is the largest city in Myanmar. It served as the capital until 2006 when the military government relocated to Nay Pyi Taw. Yangon also has the largest number of colonial-era buildings in Southeast Asia; these date back to as early as the mid-1800s. There are also many pagodas, all of which have their own charm. The most popular being the Shwedagon Pagoda, known for its golden stupa and for containing relics of four previous Buddhas.

Yangon Highlights Private Tour - Klook

Duration: 12hrDuration

6. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (from USD 8.55)

Kuala Lumpur, affectionately known as KL, is the cultural, financial, economic and governing capital of Malaysia. Take a tour of this buzzing city; see the world’s tallest twin towers, but also check out the suburbs and rural areas for a taste of something a little different. Be sure to try out what is dubbed as Malaysia’s national dish; nasi lemak. A delicious plate of rice steamed with coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with sambal (chili paste), ikan bilis (anchovies), peanuts and an egg. Simple but incredibly delicious.

Kuala Lumpur Half Day City Tour

2356 reviews

7. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, Thailand
Source: Pixabay

Travel to the north of Thailand and see the wonders of Chiang Mai. Not only is it famous for having over 300 Buddhist temples, but Chiang Mai is also probably most known for its elephant sanctuaries and reserves. In these places, you can interact and spend time with elephants that are ethically looked after and cared for in a sustainable environment. While in Chiang Mai, try some Lanna food if you get a chance. This food is hard to find in the rest of Thailand, and it originates from the ancient kingdom of Lanna. Dishes such as a Khantoke feast are incredible as they consist of a tray with small bowls of different things ranging from vegetables, noodles with sauce and curries to meat, bamboo rice and sai oua (northern Thai sausage).

8. Vientiane, Laos (from USD 50.0)

On the banks of the Mekong River near the Thai boarder is Vientiane; the capital city of Laos. Similarly to other capitals in Southeast Asia, this city observes Buddhism and is abundant with beautiful temples, stupas and statues. Pha That Lang (That Lang Stupa; also written as That Luang) is the most well-known; being the national symbol of Laos, and also appearing on the national seal and currency. Thought to have originally been built in the 1st century, it has truly stood the test of time; through Burmese, Siamese, Chinese and French rule.

Vientiane City Guided Tour

16 reviews

9. Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of the Sultanate of Brunei (18592560331)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jorge Láscar used under CC BY 2.0

Bandar Seri Begawan, formerly known as Brunei Town is the capital of Brunei; one of the only sultanates left in this world. This city was renamed in 1970 to commemorate Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III’s contribution to the city. The late Sultan was given the title “Seri Begawan” which comes from the Sanskrit “śrī bhagavan” meaning, “aura of the Gods”. Thanks to the Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan has seen immense modernization during the 20th century. When visiting, be sure to visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, both during the day and at night, to see it in all its glory. Be sure to dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering.

10. Cebu City, the Philippines

Cebu City 2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user P199 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Located on the east side of Cebu Island in the Philippines, Cebu City is both the country’s oldest city and also the first Spanish settlement. For this reason, in 1521, it was named the first capital of the country. Today, while Manila is now the capital of the Philippines, Cebu City follows a close second in population and economy. See historical sites in the city like Magellan’s Cross or the church of Nuestra Señora del Pilar. Travel out of the city to see the beautiful nature Cebu has to offer. Go swimming or canyoning at Kawasan Falls, or deep-sea diving off of one of the beautiful islands; Capitancillo Island or Mactan Island.

11. George Town, Malaysia (from USD 60.0)

The capital of the island of Penang in Malaysia is George Town, which was the first British settlement in Southeast Asia. Since then, it has become a multicultural city where Christians, Buddhists, Taoists, Hindus and Muslims live in harmony. George Town also has two enclaves in the city, which are UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, where the historical architecture is preserved. A must-do while in Penang is trying all the delicious food! Being a city of different cultures also means it is a city of a variety of cuisines. From tandoori chicken with naan and murtabak (stuffed flatbread) to char kway teow (stir-fried rice noodles) and Penang rojak (a fruit and vegetable salad); there is so much to try.

Penang: George Town City Half-Day Attractions

Duration: 4 hours

19 reviews

12. Hoi An, Vietnam (from USD 21.19)

Formerly known as Fai-Foo, Hoi An (Hội An) is a city in the central region of Vietnam. Since 1999 it has been noted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Chinese temples, old-town architecture, pagodas, wooden shop-houses, but most notably, a Japanese-designed bridge known as Chùa Cầu (or Cầu Nhật Bản). Visit the countryside and ride a basket boat and go fishing for fresh, local seafood.

Hoi An City and Countryside Tour, Hoi An, Vietnam

167 reviews

13. Singapore

Singapore Skyline 2018
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user xPhantomhive used under CC BY-SA 4.0

With the worldwide success of “Crazy Rich Asians” and the constant development of Changi Airport; Singapore has firmly earned its title as the multicultural cosmopolitan hub of Southeast Asia. Boasting a great shopping scene that ranges from markets like Capital City Trading to high-end brand shopping at Orchard Central, a day out at Gardens by the Bay or a visit to the National Library; this island city-state has something for everyone. You definitely can’t miss going to one of the hawker centers (Tiong Bahru, Market Interim or Albert just to name a few) and trying the abundance of food that Singapore has to offer. I recommend taking a few friends so that you can try more things. Don’t forget to ‘chope’ a table if you plan on going at peak meal times; just simply place a packet of tissues or an umbrella to reserve the table, and make sure that you don’t steal somebody else’s spot!

14. Bandung, Indonesia

Tangkuban Perahu Bandung Indonesia
Source: Photo by Flickr user ann_espino used under CC BY 2.0

Capital of the West Java Province, Bandung, is Indonesia’s fourth most populous city. In the city, you can shop to your heart’s content in shopping centers and outlet malls such as Paris Van Java or Cihampelas Walk. You can also visit amusement parks like Trans Studio Bandung, or famous landmarks like Braga Street and Bandung Grand Mosque. Venture outside of the city to see the amazing nature this area has to offer. Visit Curug Cimahi, a beautiful waterfall in the forest, or Gunung Tangkubanparahu, a mountain that features a viewpoint overlooking a volcano crater.

15. Surabaya, Indonesia (from USD 21.99)

surabaya, indonesia
Source: www.klook.com

Surabaya (formerly also written as Soerabaja and Surabaja) is Indonesia’s second-largest city, located in the northeast of the province of East Java on the Madura Strait. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Surabaya was known as the largest city in the Dutch East Indies, having been even larger than present-day Jakarta. The city is known as Kota Pahlawan (city of heroes) because of the Battle of Surabaya. Today, the city is symbolized by Tugu Pahlawan (Heroes Monument), a 41.15-meter (135ft) tall monument erected in memory of the people who died during the battle. Be sure to try a delicious bowl of bakso (Indonesian meatballs) while visiting; they are served in a broth with a variety of condiments.

Surabaya Heritage Tour - Klook

16. Naypyidaw, Myanmar

Naypyidaw -- Water Fountain Garden
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hybernator used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, is an entirely planned city settled in 2005 for the purpose of moving the government from Yangon. It was thought that the capital was moved to lessen the traffic in Yangon, and also because Naypyidaw is more centrally located in the country. While visiting, you can visit the National Herb Park, which is a huge park with over 20,000 plants and 700 species with herbal and medicinal uses from the various regions of Myanmar. The park was created in an effort to help protect and preserve the local flora from being depleted or becoming extinct.

17. Davao City, the Philippines (from USD 68.09)

davao city, the philippines
Source: www.klook.com

Located on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, Davao City is the geographically largest city in the Philippines. Also known as “The Durian Capital of the Philippines”, Davao City is known for its abundance in tropical fruit thanks to its wonderfully temperate climate all year round. Some fruit that you should try includes mangosteen, pomelo, bananas, guyabano (soursop), mangoes, avocados, jackfruit, papaya (pawpaw) and, of course, the king of fruit; durian. For those of you who have never tried durian, don’t let it’s strong smell turn you off; the fruit itself, when in season and ripe, is creamy and delicious. In Davao City alone, there are over 15 different types of durian. To try them at their best, visit Davao during the months of August, September and October.

City Day Tour of Davao, Philippines - Klook

Duration: 8hrDuration

18. Bogor, Indonesia

Pamijahan Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user a_rabin used under CC BY 2.0

Just 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the capital Jakarta, lies Indonesian city Bogor. In the Middle Ages, it served as the capital of the Sunda Kingdom (from approximately 669 to 1579). Today, Bogor is popular for its tranquil and misty highlands, as well as its tea plantations. You can visit Puncak Pass Tea Plantation as a part of agro-tourism first introduced in 1987. You can visit the plantations and have lunch (and of course tea!), or if you are more interested in the makings of the tea, it is also possible to access laboratories where tea research is conducted.

19. Medan, Indonesia

Medan
Source: Photo by Flickr user Hugo van den Bos used under CC BY 2.0

In the Indonesian province of North Sumatra lies Medan, a multicultural metropolis and flourishing trading city. This multiculturalism is reflected in its architecture; the famous Annai Vellangkanni church is an interesting mix of Indian, Mughal, Tibetan, and Chinese influences. The colonial architecture has been preserved well, and it was even dubbed by the Dutch in the 18th century as “Parijs van Sumatra” for its similarities to the French capital. Another well-preserved building is Tjong A Fie Mansion, a cultural heritage building that used to be the residence of a Hakka merchant; known as a historical gem for its mix of Chinese, Malay and Victorian architecture.

20. Palembang, Indonesia

The Ampera Bridge
Source: Photo by Flickr user oyi kresnamurti used under CC BY 2.0

Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra in Indonesia, can be found on both banks of the Musi River. One of the oldest cities in southeast Asia, earliest records of Palembang date back to as early as the 7th century. In 1825, after the abolishment of its Sultanate, it became a part of the Dutch East Indies and became a city in 1906. Most Indonesians and tourists alike can recognize Palembang for its bridge; the Ampera Bridge that connects Seberang Ulu and Seberang Ilir, two regions of Palembang. Try some pempek (also known as mpek-mpek or empek-empek) while in Palembang. It is a local delicacy made from fishcake and tapioca.

21. Bagan, Myanmar (from USD 43.0)

Bagan (formerly written as Pagan), is an ancient city in Myanmar. Between the 9th and 13th centuries, it served as the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, which later played an important part in unifying Myanmar. Old Bagan is known for its history and hot air balloons. The Bagan Archaeological Zone here is incredible; it is the largest archaeological site in the world. The Archaeological Museum was opened in 1979 and showcases stone buddhas and tablets, as well as models of historical villages. Book in advance to secure a spot.

Old Bagan Sightseeing Tour

Duration: 9 to 10 hours

49 reviews

22. Hue, Vietnam

hue, vietnam
Source: www.klook.com

Hue was the capital of the Đàng Trong Kingdom during the mid 18th century and of the Nguyen Dynasty from the 19th to the early 20th century. Today, this central Vietnamese city is a fascinating place where you can visit the tombs of past Nguyen Emperors; Khải Định and Minh Mạng. Take a cruise along the Perfume River (Sông Hương) to enjoy the city’s sites by the water, and visit the nearby villages to immerse yourself in local Vietnamese traditions such as conical hat crafting or fabric weaving.

Explore Hue City Full Day Tour, Hue, Vietnam - Klook

Duration: 11hr20minDuration

23. Denpasar, Indonesia (from USD 48.0)

The capital city of Bali, Denpasar is a thriving hub in Indonesia. While known for its beaches and resorts, Denpasar is also home to traditional wood carving art, sculpture and painting among many other art forms. Pass by the Bali Museum to see an impressive collection of relics and displays about Balinese art and culture. Meander through the famous and largest market, Pasar Badung, and try your hand at haggling prices for souvenirs. This market also sells a variety of spices, home goods, and fruit; basically everything you could need!

Denpasar City Half-Day Sightseeing Tour with Bali Museum

Duration: 4 hours

5 reviews

24. Hai Phong, Vietnam

Chùa Trung Hành - Hải Phòng
Source: Photo by Flickr user Nguyễn Hoài Sơn used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Hai Phong is a major industrial city located on the coast in the north of Vietnam. It was established in 1888 during the French colonization and was an important maritime city and later a trading gateway. Visit the temples and pagodas in the city. Relax by the water at Do Son Beach or Tam Bac Lake. Take a trip to the Cat Ba Archipelago to visit the mystical Hoa Cuong Cave and the temple of Thien Quoc.

25. Manila, the Philippines (from USD 60.0)

manila, the philippines

Manila (Maynilà), the capital of the Philippines, was listed as the most densely populated city in the world in 2018. At the same time, it has been damaged and rebuilt numerous times due to natural disasters. Manila’s history is reflected in the city, culture and language; a city that was colonized by Spanish conquistadors, you can see this part of Manila’s history at places like the walled city, Intramuros. Be sure to try the food; Filipino food has been influenced not only by ethnic groups in the Philippines but also by Spanish, Indian, Chinese and American cuisine. For something delicious and refreshing try halo halo; a dessert made of crushed ice, evaporated milk, sago, fruit, flan and ice cream.

Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour

Duration: 4.0 hour

252 reviews

26. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia (from USD 45.0)

kota kinabalu, malaysia

Head to the northwest coast of Borneo to the costal city of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. A major tourist destination, Kota Kinabalu is known for its magnificent waterfront views. Check out the famous landmarks including the State Mosque and the Puh Toh Tze temple. You can even take a day trip to Gaya Island which is only a 10-minute boat ride away. Here on Gaya Island, you can relax at a resort, go snorkeling and kayaking or visit the Marine Ecology Research Centre.

Kota Kinabalu: 3-Hour Morning City Tour

Duration: 3 hour

3 reviews

27. Mandalay, Myanmar (from USD 41.0)

mandalay, myanmar

Founded in 1857, Mandalay replaced Amarapura as Myanmar’s new royal capital until it was annexed by the British Empire in 1885. Economic growth and an influx of immigration in the past 20 years have shaped Mandalay into the city it is today. Despite no longer being a capital, it is still Upper Myanmar’s main center for commercial, economic and health-related things. You can visit the Mandalay Palace; the last palace of the last Burmese monarchy. Be sure to also see the Golden Palace Monastery (Shwenandaw Monastery), famous for its wooden carvings of Buddhist myths that decorate the walls and roofs.

Mandalay: Full-Day Private Tour

Duration: 9 hour

7 reviews

28. Malacca, Malaysia (from USD 93.0)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Malacca is a port town in Malaysia just two hours south of Kuala Lumpur. Known as “The Historic State”, it was where the earliest Malay sultanate was located before being abolished when it was conquered by Portugal in 1511. Its unique history makes it a popular tourist destination today. It is another very multicultural city, being home to Malays, Chinese, Indians, Baba Nyonya, Portuguese, Chitty and Eurasian peoples among other communities that all live in the area. Be sure to try some local delicacies, like the Baba Nyonya dish Ayam Pongteh; a dish comprised of chicken and vegetables stewed in preserved soybeans.

Malacca "Gateway Of The Far East" + River Cruise + Sultanate Palace Museum

Duration: 10 hours

1 review

29. Nha Trang, Vietnam (from USD 67.0)

Take a trip to Nha Trang, Vietnam; a lovely city situated on the south-central coast. Visit Long Sơn Pagoda, a Buddhist temple originally erected in 1886 and was moved to its current location in 1936. It has had very stable leadership; only having had 3 abbots in its 120 years of being open. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing when entering the temple (short trousers/skirts should be avoided). Being a coastal city, the fresh seafood is delicious; this includes famous dishes like Nha Trang squid pancake (Bánh xèo mực Nha Trang), a savory pancake smaller and crispier than the ones traditionally served in Saigon/ Ho Chi Minh with fresh squid and prawns/shrimp.

Private Nha Trang Half-Day City Tour

Duration: 4 hours

3 reviews

30. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Formerly known as Krong Chaktomuk, Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital and most populous city. Phnom Penh has a tragic, dark history that Cambodians strive to share with the rest of the world to raise awareness. The Khmer Rouge was the name given to the communist regime led by politicians, such as Pol Pot, that controlled Cambodia during the late 1970s. Today, painful reminders are still found around the city; the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum serves as a place of great importance for educating tourists and locals alike on the atrocities of what occurred. However, don’t think Phnom Penh is all about sadness; you can travel out of the city to catch a ferry along the great Mekong River and visit a neighboring village famous for silk weaving.

Private Phnom Penh Full-Day Small-Group City Tour

Duration: 8 hours

55 reviews

A trip of a lifetime

These 30 locations are just a taste of the amazing experiences that Southeast Asia has to offer. From fast-paced, thriving metropolises to relaxing, laid-back towns and villages; there is certainly something for everyone. Whether you choose to spend a holiday in one location to go on a trip around several places, I can almost guarantee that it is going to be an unforgettable trip.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Born in Japan, raised in Australia and currently living in Spain; Moeko is truly a citizen of the world. She has spent the past three years soaking in the Andalusian sun and enjoying delicious...Read more

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