Established by the 1954 Geneva Accords, the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) was a temporary military buffer zone roughly centered around the 17th parallel near the Ben Hai River, separating North and South Vietnam. Despite its name, it became one of the most fiercely contested and heavily bombed combat regions during the Vietnam War. Today, the former battlegrounds serve as a historic memorial site featuring prominent landmarks
You may also like: World Heritage Sites in Vietnam
• Content by Tam Le, founder of HOIAN DAY TRIP
• Designed by Giang Cong Minh, co-founder of LS E&C LTD and his team
• Photo by Dang Cong Loi, Dao Xuan Son, Tam Le & others
Must Knows about Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
– Location/address: Quang Tri province, Central Vietnam
– Other name(s): The 17th Parallel Demilitarized Zone, V-DMZ, Khu phi quân sự Việt Nam (Vietnamese)
– Opening hours: most historical sites open from 7h/7h30 am to 5 pm
– Existing years: 21 July 1954 to 2 July 1976
– Ticket price: around 50.000 VND per adult at major sightseeing places
– Best time to visit: the dry season, sunny days
– Time to spend: 1-3 days
– Reason(s) to visit: this area served as the physical divide between North and South Vietnam from 1954 to 1976 and bore the brunt of some of the heaviest bombings and fiercest battles of the Vietnam War
– Travel blog: https://hoiandaytrip.com/visit-dmz-vietnam/
– Recognition(s):
– Food & drink:
– Shopping:
– Tour guide: contact +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/line/zalo)
– Fact:
Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on Map
Is There Still Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Vietnam?
No, there is no longer an active DMZ in Vietnam.
The Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone officially ceased to exist with the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1976 (following the end of the war in 1975).
Today, the former DMZ region located in Quang Tri Province is entirely peaceful. The land has largely returned to agriculture, forests, and local villages, with parts converted into rubber and coffee plantations.
While it no longer functions as a military border, the area remains intact as a historical region. Travelers frequently visit it as an open-air historical landscape to explore preserved landmarks like the Vinh Moc Tunnels, the Hien Lương Bridge, and the Khe Sanh Combat Base.
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Things to Do in Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Hien Luong Bridge over Ben Hai River
– Location/address: Hai Lang commune, Quang Tri province, Vietnam
– Other name(s): Ben Hai River, Cau Hien Luong
– Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm daily (including weekends and public holidays)
– Construction year: 1952 by French people
– Reconstruction year: 1974 by Democratic Republic of Vietnam
– Ticket price: 50.000 VND per adult
– Best time to visit: the dry season, sunny days
– Time to spend: 30-60 minutes
– Reason(s) to visit: a historic bridge in Quảng Trị Province, Vietnam, that served as the dividing line between North and South Vietnam during the Vietnam War
– Travel blog: https://hoiandaytrip.com/hien-luong-bridge-vietnam/
– Recognition(s): special national heritage site (9th December 2013)
– Food & drink: available
– Shopping: vailable
– Tour guide: contact +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/line/zalo)
– Fact:
The Hien Luong Bridge spans the Ben Hai River, which served as the provisional military demarcation line dividing North and South Vietnam from 1954 to 1975. During the division, the bridge was famously painted in two different colors split down the middle to represent the political separation of the country. It became a powerful symbol of the national desire for reunification, enduring severe bombardment during the conflict. Today, the fully restored bridge and its surrounding monuments serve as a national historical memorial site. Visitors can explore the area to reflect on the country’s turbulent past and the eventual reunification of the nation. See more information and details
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Hien Luong Bridge (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Vinh Moc Tunnels
– Location: Vinh Moc village, Cua Tung commune, Quang Tri province, Vietnam
– Name meaning:
– Other name(s):
– Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm daily
– Ticket price: 50.000 VND per adult
– Reason(s) to visit: the second largest tunnels built in the Vietnam War, close to important sites in the Demilitarized Zone of Vietnam, located on Central Vietnam world heritage route
– Best time(s) to visit: anytime during the day, sunny days
– Time to spend: 40-60 mins
– Travel blog: https://hoiandaytrip.com/vinh-moc-tunnels-vietnam
– Recognition(s): special national heritage site (inscribed by Vietnam government on 31st December 2014)
– Food & drink: yes available
– Shopping: yes available
– Tour guide: contact +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/line/zalo)
– Reviews: Google reviews, TripAdvisor reviews
– Fact: Vinh Moc Tunnels is the alternative to Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City.
The Vinh Moc Tunnels are an intricate underground village complex located in the Vinh Thach commune just north of the former DMZ. Built between 1965 and 1967, the tunnels provided a safe underground shelter for local villagers attempting to survive relentless U.S. bombing campaigns. Spanning multiple levels, the complex included family living quarters, wells, kitchens, maternity rooms, and meeting spaces. Unlike the narrower networks in southern regions, these tunnels were remarkably spacious and engineered to accommodate entire communities. Preserved almost exactly as they were during the war, the site offers a profound look into civilian resilience and survival. See more information and details
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Vinh Moc Tunnels from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Khe Sanh Combat Base
– Location: Khe Sanh commune, Quang Tri province, Vietnam
– Name meaning:
– Other name(s): Ta Con Airport (Airfield)
– Opening hours: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM all days
– Ticket price: 50.000 VND per adult
– Reason(s) to visit: one of the most important historical sites in the Demilitarized Zone of Vietnam (DMZ)
– Best time(s) to visit:
– Time to spend: 1 hour
– Travel blog: https://hoiandaytrip.com/khe-sanh-combat-base-vietnam/
– Recognition(s): national historic site
– Food & drink: yes available
– Shopping: yes available
– Tour guide: contact +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/line/zalo)
– Reviews: Google reviews, TripAdvisor reviews
– Fact:
Khe Sanh Combat Base was a major United States Marine Corps outpost situated in the mountainous region of Quang Tri Province near the Laotian border. Constructed along strategic Route 9, it was intended to monitor enemy supply lines and serve as a key staging ground. In early 1968, the base became the focal point of a fierce 77-day siege by North Vietnamese forces, drawing intense global attention. Today, the site features a small museum, preserved aircraft, artillery pieces, and old trenches that showcase the scale of the historic clash. It stands as a solemn historical landmark and a popular stop for veterans and travelers exploring the DMZ. See more information and details
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Khe Sanh Combat Base from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Quang Tri Old Citadel
– Location/address: Quang Tri ward, Quang Tri province, Vietnam
– Other name(s):
– Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm daily (including weekends and public holidays)
– Construction year: 1809
– Ticket price: free of charge
– Best time to visit: the dry season, sunny days
– Time to spend: 45-60 minutes
– Reason(s) to visit: a sacred historical landmark and a powerful memorial to the fierce 81-day battle of 1972 during the Vietnam War
– Travel blog: https://hoiandaytrip.com/quang-tri-citadel
– Recognition(s): special national heritage site (9th December 2013)
– Food & drink: available
– Shopping: available
– Tour guide: contact +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/line/zalo)
– Fact:
The Quang Tri Citadel is a historic fortress originally constructed in the early 19th century under the Nguyen Dynasty. During the summer of 1972, the citadel and its surrounding town became the epicenter of a grueling 81-day battle between North Vietnamese and South Vietnamese forces. The fierce fighting reduced the ancient fortress to rubble under an unprecedented volume of artillery and aerial bombardment. Today, the rebuilt walls and expansive memorial park function as a sacred burial ground and spiritual tribute to the soldiers who perished. It remains a deeply moving destination honoring peace, sacrifice, and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. See more information and details
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Quang Tri Citadel (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Our Lady of La Vang Church
– Location/address: Hai Lang commune, Quang Tri province, Vietnam
– Other name(s): La Vang Church, Basilica of Our Lady of La Vang, Pilgrimage Center of Our Lady of La Vang
– Opening hours: 24hrs
– Construction year: 1901
– Ticket price: free
– Best time to visit: the dry season, sunny days
– Time to spend: 1 hour to 2 days
– Reason(s) to visit: one of the most holiest Catholic sites in Vietnam
– Travel blog: https://hoiandaytrip.com/la-vang-holy-land-vietnam/
– Recognition(s):
– Food & drink: not available
– Shopping: not available
– Tour guide: contact +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/line/zalo)
– Fact:
The Our Lady of La Vang Holy Land, located in Quang Tri Province, is the most important national Marian pilgrimage center for Catholics in Vietnam. It commemorates a legendary 1798 apparition where the Virgin Mary reportedly comforted persecuted Catholic refugees hiding in the local rainforest. Today, the sacred site features the historic basilica ruins and draws thousands of pilgrims seeking spiritual solace and healing. See more information and details
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Our Lady of La Vang Church from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Is It Worth Visiting The DMZ In Vietnam?
Visiting the former Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Quang Tri Province is 100% worth it if you have an interest in history, military strategy, or the human impact of the Vietnam War.
In the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) today, there are 3 places that most visitors want to see: Vinh Moc Tunnels, Hien Luong Bridge (17th Parallel) and Khe Sanh Combat Base.
Vinh Moc Tunnels alone (the second largest tunnels built during the Vietnam War) is worth visiting already. First, unlike other heavily reconstructed networks, they remain remarkably authentic and original, offering an untouched look at wartime engineering. Second, they stand as an extraordinary testament to civilian resilience, serving as an underground village where dozens of families lived, worked, and gave birth during years of intense bombardment. Finally, their impressive multi-level architecture reveals a sophisticated underground layout featuring living quarters, meeting rooms, and maternity wards spanning three distinct depths.
From all cities in the south of the DMZ, on the way to Vinh Moc Tunnels, it’s very convenient to stop at Hien Luong Bridge over Ben Hai River. So it means that a trip to Vinh Moc Tunnels will have Hien Luong Bridge anyway.
However, the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is quite far from main tourist cities: Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An. It’s needed to spend some hours to reach it from there. For that reason, visitors will be tired due to a long full day trip.
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
What to Wear to DMZ in Vietnam?
When visiting the Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) sites in Quang Tri Province (such as Vinh Moc Tunnels, Khe Sanh, or former combat bases), your wardrobe should prioritize practicality, comfort, and respect.
Key clothing and gear recommendations for a DMZ tour include:
– Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring outdoor historical sites, uneven terrain, open fields, and descending into damp or narrow tunnel complexes. Opt for sneakers, hiking shoes, or sturdy walking sandals. Avoid slick-soled shoes, as tunnel steps can be slippery.
– Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Quang Tri is known for being one of the hottest and most humid regions in Vietnam. Choose loose-fitting, breathable materials like cotton or linen to keep cool.
– Respectful, modest attire: While there is no strict military dress code like there is at the Korean DMZ, many stops in the region include war memorials, cemeteries (like Truong Son National Cemetery), temples, or shrines. It is best to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees out of cultural respect.
– Sun protection: Much of the DMZ terrain is exposed with very little shade. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
– Rain gear or light layers: Depending on the season, weather can shift quickly. Bring a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket if visiting during the rainy months, or a light layer if visiting during cooler winter months.
– Insect repellent: Recommended if you plan on walking through overgrown historical sites, brush, or rural paths to ward off mosquitoes.
To enter historical sites around the Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), visitors do not have to cover like temples. It means that long pant or long sleeve shirt is not required strictly.
Vietnamese people wear respectful attire at military cemeteries due to several deeply rooted cultural and moral values:
– Profound gratitude: It honors the Vietnamese proverb “Drinking water, remember its source,” expressing sincere appreciation for soldiers who sacrificed their lives for national independence and freedom.
– Spiritual reverence: In Vietnamese culture, death is sacred, and spirits remain connected to the living. Wearing neat, solemn clothing demonstrates high decorum and respect for the resting souls.
– Modesty and humility: Outfits must be modest—typically covering shoulders and knees in muted or dark tones. This ensures that attention remains entirely on honoring the martyrs rather than on individual appearance.
– Civic solemnity: Visiting a martyrs’ cemetery is a sacred civic and national ritual. Standard formal dress reflects patriotism, discipline, and the gravity of the occasion.
That’s why we suggest all visitors to wear respectfully when come to any Vietnam War martyr cemetery.
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Itinerary to Visit Vietnam Demilitarized Zone
Visitors often go to Vietnam DMZ from Dong Ha, Hue, Da Nang (Hoi An) or Phong Nha (Dong Hoi). The closest cities are Dong Ha and Hue (southern side of DMZ).
From Dong Ha (capital of DMZ area), here are some recommended itineraries:
+ Option 1: Dong Ha – Hien Luong Bridge – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Cua Tung Beach or Cua Viet Beach – Quang Tri Citadel – Long Hung Church – Bo De School – Dong Ha
+ Option 2: Dong Ha – The Rockpile – Camp Carroll (Hill 241) – Dakrong Bridge – Khe Sanh Monument – Khe Sanh Combat Base / Ta Con Airport – Khe Sanh Coffee Farms or Coffee House – Dong Ha
If possible, plan to spend 2 full days in Dong Ha to do both of these routes.
From Hue, here are some typical itineraries:
+ Option 1: Hue – Long Hung Church – Quang Tri Citadel – Hien Luong Bridge – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Hue
+ Option 2: Hue – Long Hung Church – Quang Tri Citadel – The Rockpile – Dakrong Bridge – Khe Sanh Combat Base / Ta Con Airport – Hue
+ Option 3: Hue – The Rockpile – Dakrong Bridge – Khe Sanh Combat Base / Ta Con Airport – Hue
+ Option 4: Hue – Khe Sanh Combat Base / Ta Con Airport – Hien Luong Bridge – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Hue
+ Option 5: Hue – Quang Tri Citadel – Hien Luong Bridge – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Phong Nha / Dong Hoi
From Da Nang (Hoi An), here are itineraries:
+ Option 1: Da Nang – Hien Luong Bridge – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Da Nang
+ Option 2: Da Nang – The Rockpile – Dakrong Bridge – Khe Sanh Combat Base / Ta Con Airport – Da Nang
From Phong Nha (Dong Hoi), the trip usually ends at Hue. Because this city is the ancient capital of Vietnam, and has a rich history and numerous imperial buildings. Here are some popular itineraries:
+ Option 1: Phong Nha / Dong Hoi – Hien Luong Bridge – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Quang Tri Citadel – Hue
+ Option 2: Phong Nha / Dong Hoi – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Hien Luong Bridge – Khe Sanh Combat Base / Ta Con Airport – Hue
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
How to Get to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
The Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is located in Quang Tri province, central Vietnam region. The central point is absolutely Hien Luong Bridge over Ben Hai River (which runs along the 17th Parallel).
The nearest city to the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is Dong Ha. The distance to Hien Luong Bridge is around 20 km. Therefore, if stay overnight in Dong Ha, visitors can take a taxi/private car or ride the motorbike or book a tour. It takes 30-40 minutes to get there by car/van. Going by bike is not difficult, and travelers just need to go northwards (along Highway QL1A). Between Dong Ha and the DMZ, Doc Mieu Base (or the McMamara Line) is a popular stop.
To go to Dong Ha, the quickest way from Nothern Vietnam (Hanoi) or Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) is taking a direct domestic flight to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) or Dong Hoi Airport (VDH). The distance is 85km and 100km respectively.
From Da Nang, capital of Central Vietnam region, visitors can take a car/van/bus, or train.
Because of more things to do or/and hotel options, many visitors choose Hue city to stay overnight instead of Dong Ha and then have a day trip to the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The distance is around 100km, the best way is hiring a private car/van or booking a tour with guide.
From Hue, the half day itinerary includes two places: Hien Luong Bridge / 17th Parallel and Vinh Moc Tunnels. In the full day tour, visitors can see other historical sites along the Highway 1A like Quang Tri Citadel, Long Hung Church (ruins), La Vang Church (ruins), Bo De School,… Some trips have Hien Luong Bridge, Vinh Moc Tunnels and Khe Sanh Combat Base (former US base 65km away in the west, near Laos).
If travel from north to south in Vietnam, the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a popular stop on the way from Phong Nha (or Dong Hoi) to Hue (or Da Nang). Although traveling by train from Phong Nha to Hue is possible and quite convenient, to see DMZ sites, visitors have to use a private vehicle or book a private tour.
Although the distance is nearly 200km, a day trip to the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Da Nang is still possible. If like to do, we recommend going early in the morning to have more time for sightseeing. Unlike Hue, a combination of Vinh Moc Tunnels, Hien Luong Bridge and Khe Sanh Combat Base is very rare due to long travel time. For that reason, history lovers often have to choose: Khe Sanh Combat Base or the pair of Hien Luong Bridge and Vinh Moc Tunnels.
Hoi An is the furthest tourist city to the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The distance is 230 kilometers. Visitors need to book a private car/van or tour with guide.
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Best Tours to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Here are the best tours to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ):
– DMZ Tour from Hue (Half Day)
– DMZ Tour from Hue (Full Day)
HOIAN DAY TRIP Company organize tours and transfers to Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.
Contact us by +84968009827 (hotline/whatsapp/zalo) or hoiandaytripcompany@gmail.com to make a reservation.
Thank you so much!
Photos, Videos about Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Here are beautiful photos and videos about Vietnam Demilitarized Zone (DMZ):
