Discovering Dalat, Vietnam: A Floral Paradise with lots to see and do

Dalat is a pretty escape to a cooler climate with an abundance of colour and sites to see

Nestled in the cool Central Highlands of Vietnam, Dalat is a city that feels like perpetual spring. Long celebrated as the “City of Flowers”, it enchants visitors with misty mornings, rolling pine forests, and an ever-changing palette of blooms that flourish thanks to its temperate climate. From vast hydrangea fields and sunflower valleys to the iconic Dalat Flower Gardens and colorful roadside markets, the city is alive with natural beauty year-round. Beyond the flowers, Dalat has also become a hub for eco-tourism, strawberry farms, and fresh produce markets, making it a perfect blend of nature, culture, and flavor.

Adding to its charm is the biennial Dalat Flower Festival, one of Vietnam’s most spectacular cultural events. Held every two years (the next one is scheduled for late 2025), the festival transforms the city into a giant living gallery, with dazzling floral displays, street parades, art shows, and performances that draw visitors from all over the world.

Whether you’re exploring manicured gardens, wandering through rustic flower villages, or sipping artichoke tea at a hillside café, Dalat offers a refreshing escape from Vietnam’s bustling cities—especially at this time of year when cooler evenings and late-summer harvests make the city particularly inviting.

In our latest Podcast talking with Vicki Thai, we delve into some of the most memorable elements of her stay in Dalat. You can check out the whole Episode here

A little bit about The Everlastings that Kerry and Vicki discuss on the podcast.

The "Everlasting flowers", scientifically known as Helichrysum bracteatum, are a remarkable and cherished botanical feature of Vietnam's natural landscape. These unique flowers are commonly referred to as "everlastings" due to their ability to retain their vibrant colors, shape, and texture even after they have been harvested and dried. This exceptional trait has made them popular choices for various decorative and ornamental purposes, including flower arrangements, crafts, and even herbal remedies.

If you have never been to Dalat you will notice some very distinguishable differences about the city, in comparison to the rest of Vietnam. A stay here is made extra special if you have time to check out some of the lovely displays of flowers in and around the city and in many of the gardens that adorn hotels and local establishments.

In the podcast Vicki refers to Dalat's unique climate, with its cool temperatures and ample rainfall, it provides an ideal environment for a diverse range of flowers to flourish. As a result, the city has earned its moniker as the "City of Flowers" in Vietnam. Visitors can expect to encounter an array of both native and imported flowers, creating a breathtaking symphony of colors and fragrances that captivate the senses.

However, it may be the "mist" that accompanies some days while you visit that may give it some of its magical charm.

Prime Locations to Admire Flowers

• Dalat Flower Park

• Valley of Love

• Dalat Market

  
  

What you can hope to see in Dalat

Dalat Flower ParkA visit to the Dalat Flower Park is a must for anyone looking to be enveloped in a sea of blossoms. The park boasts an extensive collection of flowers, including roses, hydrangeas, and orchids. Each season brings a different set of blooms, ensuring that there's always something new and captivating to see. The biennial Dalat Flower Festival, typically held in December, transforms the park into a living canvas of floral artistry and is a highlight that draws visitors from across Vietnam and abroad.

Valley of LoveBeyond its romantic reputation, the Valley of Love is also a botanical wonderland. Among the rolling hills and tranquil lakes, visitors can discover a variety of vibrant flowers, from colorful pansies to delicate daisies. The lush landscapes make this destination perfect for a leisurely stroll, a swan-boat ride, or even a picnic while soaking in the fresh mountain air.

Dalat MarketFor a taste of local life and an opportunity to bring some of Dalat's floral charm back home, a visit to Dalat Market is essential. Stalls brim with fresh-cut flowers, potted plants, artichokes, strawberries, and locally made jams. Handcrafted floral arrangements and dried flower souvenirs make for perfect keepsakes or gifts.

Hydrangea FieldsDalat is famed for its sprawling hydrangea fields that burst into endless shades of blue and purple. These fields, often located just outside the city, have become Instagram hotspots where visitors can walk among towering blooms that seem to stretch as far as the eye can see.

Sunny Sunflower GardensDuring certain months (usually around late summer and early autumn), Dalat’s sunflower gardens come to life. These bright, cheerful fields make for an unforgettable photo opportunity and showcase a different side of the city’s floral diversity.

Cu Lan VillageLocated about 20km from Dalat, Cu Lan Village is a blend of flower gardens, pine forests, and a recreated traditional ethnic village. It offers cultural experiences alongside its natural beauty, making it a lovely day trip.

The Clay Tunnel (Clay Sculpture Village)While not purely floral, this quirky attraction includes beautifully landscaped flower gardens alongside intricate clay sculptures depicting Dalat’s history, culture, and iconic landmarks. It’s both artistic and Instagram-worthy.

Pongour & Elephant WaterfallsFor those wanting to balance flowers with natural wonders, Dalat’s surrounding waterfalls are breathtaking. Often surrounded by lush flora, these cascading falls add another layer to the region’s romantic, nature-filled atmosphere. I particularly loved the Pobgour waterfalls as you could reach out and touch the water from an easy vantage point.

The Best Time to Visit

Dalat's flowers are a year-round spectacle, with different seasons showcasing varying blooms. However, to make the most of your floral adventure, consider planning your visit during these key times:

1. Spring (January to March): During this time, the city comes alive with vibrant colors as various flowers, including peach blossoms and cherry blossoms, bloom. The Tet Festival (Lunar New Year) adds to the festive atmosphere, making it an ideal time to experience the city's culture and flowers.

2. Summer (April to June): As temperatures rise, a plethora of exotic and tropical flowers come into full bloom, including roses, hydrangeas, and orchids. The Dalat Flower Festival, typically held in December every other year, is a grand celebration of the city's floral beauty.

3. Autumn (September to November): The autumn months bring a sense of tranquility to Dalat's landscapes. Marigolds, chrysanthemums, and dahlias dominate the scenery, providing a soothing palette of warm hues.

Find out more about this amazing city from the podcast with the lovely Vicki Thai - https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/series-5/episode-3/heritage-and-discovery-in-saigon-the-mekong-delta-and-dalat