Although few people include Son La on their list of must-see places in Vietnam, this sleepy town is surrounded by natural beauty and is a pretty place to take a break from traveling.
Son La is a good place to rest if you are traveling along the road between Hanoi and Dien Bien Phu. The main attraction here is the French prison, which was built on the site of a French penal colony. The area’s natural beauty also makes this a good place to stretch your legs.
There are a number of descent restaurants scattered around Son La offering cheap and tasty home cooking. Son La’s vibrant market is a good place to shop for provisions and to shop for colorful arts and crafts.
Getting There & Away
The nearest airport is at Hanoi, which is 10 hours away by bus. Unless you are hiring a car or motorbike, the only way to get to Son La is by bus. The bus station is about two kilometers southwest of town and there are regular buses from Hanoi (10 hours) and Dien Bien Phu (5 hours).
Things to Do
Son La Attractions
- The Old French Prison and Museum
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This is a good place to learn about the french influence in vietnam.