As a famous tourist city in Vietnam with beautiful nature and many interesting attractions, Dalat is a great place to visit. There are also many tourist attractions and activities in Dalat that are completely free for everyone. Here is the list of amazing free things to do in Dalat for budget travelers.
Let’s check how to explore the city of thousand flowers without breaking your wallet.
1. Cau Dat Tea Hill
If you are looking for an attractive suburban tourist destination and a peaceful place to relax in Dalat, Cau Dat Tea Hill will satisfy you. Cau Dat Tea Hill is actually a tea growing area owned by Cau Dat Farm tea enterprise. The tea hill is located about 30 km southeast of the city center. When coming here, you can enjoy the fresh natural scenery with rolling green hills and clear blue sky.
Cau Dat Farm has built a coffee shop between tea hills which is one of Dalat coffee shops offering the most impressive view. The café is built of red containers making the scene livelier. From a distance, you can recognize the extremely prominent containers on the green background of the tea hill. If you want to see the yellow wild flowers and the pink garden, come to Cau Dat Tea Hill at the end of the year.
Address: National Road 20, Da Tho Village, Xuan Tho Commune, Xuan Truong, Dalat
Opening Hours: 7:00 - 17:00
2. Windmill Bakery
Windmill Bakery is one of the most beautiful photography locations in Dalat. The thing that makes this bakery so popular is undoubtedly the yellow painted wall with the words "Windmill - Bread and Pastry" written in the retro style of the 70s and 80s that makes it the perfect background. The shop not only has impressive backdrops but is also offering very delicious Dalat cakes.
Address: 1A, Hoa Binh Street, Dalat
3. Ha Dong Flower Village
Ha Dong Flower Village is located only about 2 km from the center of Dalat, so this is an ideal place for those who want to fully immerse in the atmosphere of the city of thousand flowers. Ha Dong Flower Village is considered to be the first flower-growing village in Dalat which was formed 75 years ago by 35 households migrating here from Hanoi.
Being one of Dalat's free tourist attractions, this flower village is filled by brilliant colors of bright different flowers. Initially, the plants here were mainly strawberries, vegetables, chrysanthemums, lilies, and gladiolus, but now Ha Dong Flower Village has added many new varieties such as orchids, persimmons, daisies, etc.
Address: Khu pho Ha Dong, Dalat
Opening Hours: 7:00 - 18:00
4. Thai Phien Flower Village
Thai Phien Flower Village is located about 10 km northeast of Dalat city center, nearby the road connecting the cities of Nha Trang and Dalat. Thai Phien Flower Village can be visited for free at any time of the year and you will be overwhelmed by hundreds of greenhouses built to grow colorful flowers. You can see many varieties of flowers imported from France, Japan, Indonesia, and the Netherlands.
In the daytime, the flower village is brilliant with thousands of flower blooming. When the night falls, Thai Phien Flower Village becomes sparkling with thousands of light bulbs in greenhouses, shining in the dark.
Address: Ward 12, Dalat
Flowers in Dalat are well known around the world for their radiant, delicate and transient beauty. Find the information about when and where to see the most beautiful flower gardens in Dalat.
5. Pink Grass Hill
Besides the famous flower fields, the pink grass hill is another beautiful scenery that you should not miss when coming to Dalat. The pink grass, is actually a species of wild grass, which can grow anywhere.
There are 3 places in Dalat where you can see the pink grass hill such as the road to the Clay Tunnel, Trai Mai junction and area nearby Suoi Vang Lake.
The best time to visit these places is at the end of the year, between November and December. You will be fascinated by the view of the pink grass sprinkled over a hill.
6. Xuan Huong Lake
Located in the middle of the city center, Xuan Huong Lake is considered to be the heart of Dalat. The total length of the lake is up to 7km and it covers the area up to 25 hectares. Xuan Huong Lake is surrounded by flower gardens and pine forests, creating romantic scenery. This lake is beautiful in all seasons but it’s even more special in spring, when you can walk around the lake and admire cherry blossoms.
If you have a chance, choose to stay at the hotel near the lake. You will enjoy the magical and charming atmosphere here, especially at night.
Some of the best rated hotels near Xuan Huong Lake:
7. Thien Phuc Duc Hill
Thien Phuc Duc Hill is located nearly 10 km from the center of Dalat city, opposite to the bustling Lang Biang Mountain. Thien Phuc Duc Hill is always quiet and looks like sleepy in the mist. The most unique feature here is the image of a lonely pine tree on the hill, as if it would be waiting for someone.
When standing at the highest position of the hill, you can admire poetic and majestic scenery of Dalat.
Thien Phuc Duc Hill is suitable for enjoying the view, taking photos, watching the sunrise and the early morning clouds. For those who are passionate about camping overnight in Dalat, Thien Phuc Duc Hill is also a great place to set the camp.
8. Tuyen Lam Lake
For those who love the peace and tranquility, Tuyen Lam Lake is the place to visit. Tuyen Lam Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Dalat, located about 6 km away from the city center. Covering the area of over 350 ha, Tuyen Lam Lake is located in the middle of vast green pine forests. The lake area has fresh climate, quiet space, and diverse natural landscapes.
At Tuyen Lam Lake you can experience many tourist activities such as sightseeing, camping, and hiking. On beautiful days, you can canoe to enjoy the nature on the lake.
If you want to stay at the beautiful place with relaxed atmosphere and super friendly staff, consider staying overnight at The Lake House Dalat which is overlooking Tuyen Lam Lake.
From Tuyen Lam Lake, you can follow the stairs to visit Truc Lam Zen Monastery or take Dalat Cable Car.
9. Dalat Dry Flower Garden
Dalat Dry Flower Garden, belonging to Dalat Flower Forest Biotechnology Corporation, is a place to visit combined with accommodation services and cafes, located right next to the Valley of Love.
Among many Dalat flower gardens, the dried flower garden is a unique destination. Flowers are dried using the modern Japanese technology and then stained. The colors of the flowers look very real, not flashy, and can be kept for 3-5 years.
Tourists come here not only to buy flowers, but also to make various dried flowers items such as giant baskets, flower dolls, or paintings made by dried flowers. Besides, this place also organizes activities to arrange dried flowers for visitors.
For those who want to stay surrounded by calming greenery, choose Rung Hoa Hotel which is offering a peaceful and comfortable accommodation here.
Address: 7A / 1 Mai Anh Dao, Ward 8, Dalat
Opening Hours: 7:00 - 20:00
10. Cathedral of Dalat
Cathedral of Dalat is also known as Chicken Church (Con Ga Church). The reason behind such a name is a large rooster statue attached to the top of the bell tower. The church is not only the place serving the religious life of local people, but also a fascinating place to visit and explore the architecture.
Chicken Church is one of the Roman Catholic architectural works built in European style. From the top of the bell tower, you can see the panoramic view of Dalat that will surely be a special memory from your trip to the flower city.
Address: 15 Duong Tran Phu, Ward 3, Dalat
11. Dalat Milk Farm
Dalat Milk Farm is considered as one of the most peaceful places in Dalat. Dalat Milk Farm is located about 25 km from the city center in the direction of Duc Trong district. This farm attracts many visitors by the beautiful vast flower fields, poetic blue lake, lovely dairy herd and houses forming a perfect picture.
At Dalat Milk Far, you can visit the dairy farm and explore the process of clean milk production as well as admire the architecture of the farm buildings and the natural beauty.
Address: Lac Truong Village, Tu Tra Commune, Don Duong District, Lam Dong Province
Opening Hours: 8:00 - 17:00
There are loads of fun things to do in Dalat for families. Check the list of the best family-friendly activities in Dalat that you and your kids will love.
12. Lam Vien Square
Lam Vien Square is also known as the city central square. Occupying a total area of about 72,000 square meters, Lam Vien Square is located in the heart of the city with thousands of flowers and faces Xuan Huong Lake.
This place has become a favorite photography spot for many people because of the two huge artworks of wild anemone and artichoke bud designed with fancy stained glass. If you come here in the evening, you will see loads of people enjoying various activities and local street food such as skewers, grilled rice paper, or hot soybeans.
Address: Tran Quoc Toan Street, Ward 1, Dalat
13. Dalat Pedagogy College
Dalat Pedagogy College formerly was the Grand Lycée Yersin. Constructed and founded by the French in 1927, Dalat Pedagogy College still remains as one of the most beautiful architectural works in Vietnam and is also a well-known tourist attraction in Dalat.
The most unique part of the complex is the 3-storey arc shaped red brick building with a 54 m high bell tower. Over the years, the collage has become a place for tourists to visit and take photo. However, the time to visit the college is very limited.
Address: 29 Yersin, Ward 10, Dalat
Update! The college is temporarily suspended for sightseeing.
For couples who are looking for a romantic place to enjoy time in Dalat, the list of the best honeymoon attractions in Dalat will help you get the most out of your wonderful trip.
14. Truc Lam Zen Monastery
Truc Lam Zen Monastery, covering the area of 30 hectares, is one of the 3 largest and most famous Zen temples in Vietnam. The monastery is located on Phung Hoang Mountain, above Tuyen Lam Lake, 5 km from the center of Dalat city. Truc Lam Zen Monastery is surrounded by colorful flower gardens. Both sides of the road leading to the monastery are vast pine forests. To have a unique experience of visiting the place, you can travel there by Robin Hill cable car.
Address: Tran Thanh Tong Street, Ward 10, Dalat
15. Strawberry Garden
Strawberry Garden is a tourist attraction not to be missed in Dalat when arriving in the city of thousands of flowers. Here you will be able to hand-pick ripe strawberries and eat them right at the garden. Visiting a strawberry garden and picking your own strawberries is a great experience. Even if you can visit most of the gardens for free, you need to pay for strawberries you are picking.
In Dalat, there are many strawberry gardens for tourists to visit and each garden grows varieties of strawberries such as Japanese strawberries, French strawberries or New Zealand’s strawberries. Some of the most famous strawberry gardens that can be visited are listed here: Best Strawberry Gardens in Dalat.
16. Domaine De Marie Church
Domaine De Marie Church is also known as Vinh Son Church because it is the chapel of the Sisters of Bac Ai Vinh Son. This church is famous for its unique architectural design making it an attractive destination for travelers. Domaine De Marie Church is located on the windy Mai Anh Hill, about 1 km from Dalat city center.
This church was built in the style of classic European 17th century. The pink painted walls were maintained over time, along with the roof system, shaped like a communal house of the Central Highlands ethnic people, creating a unique feature for the church. From Domaine De Marie Church you can also discover the beauty of Dalat from above.
Address: 1 Ngo Quyen, Ward 6, Dalat
Opening Hours: 06:00 - 17:00
Dalat is rich with activities, especially in the city center, where the highlights are often only a few meters apart. Find the best tourist attractions of Dalat City Center to get an idea for your next holiday.
17. Hydrangea Flower Garden
Dalat is known as the city of thousands of flowers, as more than a thousand different species of flowers are grown in the city and its surroundings. Hydrangeas are one of the typical flowers of Dalat. With an elegant beauty unlike other flowers, hydrangeas have large, round flowers in a variety of colors. This beautiful flower is easy to grow in Dalat, so you can see it anywhere.
The largest hydrangea garden is located in Lac Duong District, about 15 km from the center of Dalat City. The blooming flower fields create an extremely wonderful scene so you will definitely have a lot of beautiful photos here.
Hydrangeas can bloom in all seasons and you can immerse yourself in one of these beautiful hydrangeas gardens in Dalat.
18. Tiger Cave Waterfall
Tiger Cave Waterfall is a unique waterfall with impressive beauty. The waterfall is located in Xuan Tho commune, about 15 km east of Dalat city center. Tiger Cave Waterfall is about 25 meters high and more than 10 meters wide. The waterfall area was developed some time ago as a tourist attraction, but now it is almost abandoned due to an unfortunate accident causing the death of a guide and a tourist in 2017. If you are planning to go Tiger Cave Waterfall, you need to be careful.
Update! Tiger Cave Waterfall is permanently closed.
Address: Xuan Tho, Dalat
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 16:30
Waterfalls are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Dalat. Check our guide to the most beautiful waterfalls in Dalat.
19. Me Linh Coffee Garden
Me Linh Coffee Garden is known as one of the top tourist destinations and one of the most beautiful cafes on the outskirts of Dalat. This café is located in the suburbs, about 25 km from the city center, so it’s surrounded by an extremely peaceful space and fresh air. Me Linh Coffee Garden is designed to be an open space for you to see 360-degree view. Right at the foot of the café, there is a small coffee farm and sunflower field.
Me Linh Garden Coffee is not only famous for its beautiful scenery and the beauty of the vast and majestic highland hills, but also mink coffee. Here you can also learn about the famous mink coffee production process.
Cr.Mê Linh Coffee Garden Facebook Page
Address: Group 20, Village 4, Ta Nung Commune, Dalat
Opening Hours: 07:00 - 18:30
20. Linh Phuoc Pagoda
Linh Phuoc Pagoda, also known as Ve Chai Pagoda, is considered as one of the most beautiful temples in Dalat and has set many Vietnamese records. What makes this temple special is the unique buildings made from bottles and crockery. The pagoda has a 7-storey tower, which is 37 meter high and is said to be the tallest of the temples in Dalat. In the yard, there is a 49 meter long dragon statue made of 12,000 beer bottles.
Address: No. 120, Tu Phuoc, Trai Mat, Ward 11, Dalat
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00
21. Youth Cultural Center of Lam Dong Province
Youth Cultural Center is one of the tourist destinations in Dalat, visited by many people because of its design which is both western and classic and somewhat dusty like the medieval arenas. The attractive thing here is the large outdoor stage with the white rows of old chairs in the stands. This place is especially suitable for those who want to get a beautiful picture.
Update! This open air venue has been temporarily closed.
Address: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ward 2, Dalat
22.The Wilder-nest Dalat
The Wilder-nest Dalat is a very popular place for local tourists because it was the scene in the famous music video. The Wilder-nest owns a prime location at the foot of the spectacular Prenn Pass. The Wilder-nest is the café and also homestay, overlooking the romantic pine forest. You can choose this place as a place to stay during a trip. When coming here, you will be overwhelmed by the wild nature and majestic scenery where you can take countless of beautiful photos.
Cr. @thewildernest.dl
Address: Tuyen Lam, Hiep An, Duc Trong, Dalat
Opening Hours: 7:30 - 22:00
Dalat is also popular for its themed cafes offering very unique and memorable experience. If you want to capture some picturesque spots in Dalat for your Instagram feed, check this list of the best Instagrammable cafes in Dalat.
23. Forgotten Paradise (Tuyet Tinh Coc)
Not only Ninh Binh has Tuyet Tinh Coc, because right in the middle of the mountains of Lam Dong, there is also a beautiful Tuyet Tinh Coc that attracts people. When you come here, you will be overwhelmed by the magical beauty of this place, characterized by the emerald green water and the cliffs. There was a time when Tuyet Tinh Coc was on the list of tourist attractions in Dalat that were closed by the Government due to concerns about safety, but fortunately it was reopened. This place is a quite attraction, but somewhat difficult to go. You should check the route carefully or have a guide to bring you there.
Tips
To explore all tourist attractions on your own itinerary, rent a private car and enjoy a comfortable journey in a modern air-conditioned car with a professional driver.
If you're wondering, where is the best area to stay in Dalat, you might choose the area around Dalat Night Market, which is usually packed with people. However, the most beautiful hotels are usually located on the outskirts of Dalat, mainly in Tuyen Lam Lake area. Looking for a hotel with great reviews that can guarantee an enjoyable vacation? Check the list of the best rated hotels in Dalat.
Adventurous activities are one of the best things to do when exploring the mountainous town of Dalat and the best ones are gathered in the list of the thrilling experiences in Dalat.
Dalat cuisine is offering a large variety of dishes and regional specialties. The ultimate food guide to the delicious foods to try in Dalat can be found here: Dalat Food: Top 9 Dishes to Eat in Dalat.