2020 has been an unprecedented year and traveling has been incredibly difficult across the world. However, 2021 is a new year and a great time to plan a travel itinerary. For those who are interested in learning more about the Vietnam War, there are lots of incredible sites to visit. Here are the 10 most significant Vietnam War sites to explore in 2021.

1. Ho Chi Minh City War Remnants Museum

This museum is located in Ho Chi Minh City and is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the Vietnam War. It contains a wide range of artifacts, documents, and photographs related to the Vietnam War, with a special focus on the war’s effects on the Vietnamese people. There are also some outdoor exhibits including a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter and a US tank.

2. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the most famous sites related to the Vietnam War. The tunnels were used as an underground refuge by the Viet Cong during the war. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about the history of the war, and even try out some of the shooting and sniper techniques used by the Viet Cong.

3. Khe Sanh Combat Base

Khe Sanh Combat Base was one of the most famous battles of the entire war and is now a memorial site that can be visited. It was a major military engagement between North Vietnamese forces and the US, which resulted in thousands of casualties. The Combat Base is now a peaceful memorial, with displays and information about the battle and its significance.

4. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located in Washington D.C. and contains the names of all the American servicemen and women who lost their lives during the Vietnam War. It is a powerful testament to the sacrifices made by those who fought and served in the war. Visitors can take part in many of the memorial services held here throughout the year.

5. Hanoi Hilton

The infamous “Hanoi Hilton” was a prison used by the North Vietnamese to hold American POW’s during the Vietnam War. The prison was notorious for its inhumane treatment of prisoners and is now a memorial dedicated to the suffering of those held captive during the war. Visitors can take a tour of the prison and see the living conditions of the POW’s.

6. Long Tan Cross

The Long Tan Cross is located in Australia and is a tribute to the Australian soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War. The Cross is a memorial to the men who died in the Battle of Long Tan and a reminder of the contributions made by Australians in the war effort.

7. Mai Loc Special Forces Camp

This is a former US Special Forces camp located in Mai Loc, Vietnam. It was used as a base for US Special Forces operations during the war and is now a museum that visitors can explore. The museum contains displays about the history of the war and the role of the Special Forces in Vietnam.

8. Hoa Lo Prison

Hoa Lo Prison was a prison used by the French to hold Vietnamese political prisoners during the colonial period. Later, during the Vietnam War, it was used by the North Vietnamese to hold American POW’s. The prison is now a museum that visitors can explore to learn more about the history of the Vietnam War and its effects on the Vietnamese people.

9. Ben Hai River

The Ben Hai River was a major battle site during the Vietnam War and is now a poignant memorial to the conflict. Visitors can explore the river and see the remains of bunkers, trenches, and other wartime artifacts. The area also contains a museum that covers the history of the war and its effects on the people of Vietnam.

10. My Lai Massacre Memorial

The My Lai Massacre Memorial is located in Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam and is a somber reminder of one of the most tragic events of the Vietnam War. The memorial honors the victims of the massacre and contains displays about the events that occurred here in 1968.

Ready to plan your trip?

Visiting these incredible sites is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War and the role it played in shaping the world. Visit Tripfany to learn more about planning your very own Vietnam War trip, and get help connecting with a travel expert to customize your itinerary.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, you’re sure to find something to excite, inspire, and educate you during your visit to Vietnam.