In this article, I discuss things to do Vietnam. Vietnam offers a plethora of diverse experiences, captivating every traveler with its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. One of the top things to do Vietnam is to explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, where you can savor traditional street food and immerse yourself in the local culture. Another must-see is Ha Long Bay, renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and islets. Visiting the ancient town of Hoi An is another essential activity, where you can wander through its historic lanes and witness its well-preserved architecture.
Things to Do Vietnam
When considering things to do Vietnam, don't miss out on trekking in Sapa, offering breathtaking views of terraced rice fields and a chance to connect with local ethnic minority groups. Additionally, the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City provide a profound glimpse into the country’s wartime history. Whether it’s exploring the Mekong Delta or enjoying the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc, the list of things to do Vietnam is virtually endless.
1. Light a lantern of hoe
Each Tate (Vietnamese New Year) is converted to Hoi's lanterns festival color and light on a callidoscope. The celebration lasts for seven days, the road from a bridge to the Hoi river square is decorated with thousands of colorful lanterns.
More than 50 participates in the workshop event, everyone tries to create the most beautiful lantern. The colors are brighter and the designs are strictly the traditional tide.
The hearts of the festivals are in the old town, the Japanese covered bridge and the Kao A Hoi Bridge. It is crowded, chaotic and festive with spontaneous singing and food stalls in each twist. This is for the locals as much as it is for visitors.
The most dumped scene is floating on the banks of the river thousands of lantern; Rent a sampan boat to get around to look around. In a small amount, you can buy a lantern and drive it too.
If you can't make it for the New Year, don't worry: Each full moon is held in a small lantern festival.
2. See Halong Bay and equal to the spectacular neighbor
With his turquoise water, 1,600 limestone towers are up, Halong Bay is properly considered one of the most beautiful spots in Vietnam. As a result, it is on every viewer's list - and several hundred boats provide cruise trip daily. The bay is huge, but it can still feel the crowd.
Bye to Long Bay, only a few miles away, the same jaw dropping supplies the scenery, but only a part of the visitors. Here, you can explore the unbrooded cave and small beaches and super-fresher juicy marine food banquet.
From Halang City's crowd dock to Long Bay boats are similar to the Halong Gulf. But you will travel the opposite side, where the islands are a little less long and a bit more spread - but according to locals, the halang is just as used.
3. Rent through Kat or Island
You cannot make mistakes by visiting Kat or Island. The philosophy is spectacular, and the nearest Lan Ha Bay is a brilliant halong alternative - the tourist is a beautiful bay without the people.
Is it USP? Hiking, WonderLasts Rosie Fitzgardld says. Enjoy trekking through the ancient rain forest that builds a huge national park. Lukeout Tower Trail is a popular and fairly simple rental. Walk about an hour up to an hour until you get out of a rusty shelter, from there you can only appreciate how much Kat BA you are.
If you want more, take some more initiatives to reach the stunning NGU lam peak. It is worth trying to find the jugged, green mountains that blink at the distance.
For one more challenge, book a guide and ride on the Cong Vietnam High Trail - a 18 km, the Undulating Trail which requires a good fitness level. The steep, slippery paths are ready for climbing and shaking on the thick knots of the tree route that blocks the path.
4. Macong Delta Cruise
After traveling more than 1.5 km from the Tibetan Himalayas, Mekong hit Vietnam and slowly slow down. The islands, rice paddy, steald villages and a life that has not changed for centuries, it seems as if the river wants to make it easier and soaked in the scene.
Hitch a journey with the cargo boat and you can do it exactly. Looking at your hamk as your boat and just look for a shadow spot to look on the banks of the river, weighing with fruits and rice sacks, plows the quarterly brown flow.
Or, take one of the many commercial cruises on the banks of the river. Great way to enjoy a night from Kai to Cruise to Cance Tho River. When you are traveling south along the Mang Thit River connected to Tian Ziang and Basak systems, the channel becomes so narrow that you can compassion on the river bank's ricky steeld houses.
5. Descend into the world's largest cave at Phong Nha National Park
Quang Binh Province is a wild region of barely penetrable jungle in the middle of Vietnam's skinny near the border with Laos. This area is filled with hundreds of deep caves, including one of the largest in the world - Hang Son Doong. It has a cave so tall that a skyscraper could be placed inside it.
The small town of Phong Nah is the caving hub of the area, with its eponymous cave another UNESCO-listed wonder worth exploring. Here, you can hire both guides and gear to descend the cave.
If going underground doesn't appeal, the area is also famous for trekking. The surrounding forest is dotted with stunning waterfalls and an active (and noisy) population of monkeys and flying foxes.
6. Visit Buon Ma Thuot, the center of coffee production
Buon Ma Thuot is the regional capital of Vietnam's central highlands, a picturesque area of thundering waterfalls and traditional villages of the local Eddy people. Look out for the stable structure reached by a staircase and marked by a carved breast. In this fiercely matriarchal area, they could only be used by the women of the house.
Buon Ma Thuot is also the center of Vietnam's thriving coffee industry. The Trung Nguyen Coffee Company is the big player here, and there is no corner of the paddy fields or industrial areas in the area that does not have their logo.
In the city itself, there are plenty of attractions related to coffee. Throughout the year, visitors can learn about the coffee industry in the country and around the world at the World Coffee Museum. In March 2023, various coffee venues in the city will offer freebies to celebrate local produce during the biennial coffee festival.
During your travels you will likely come across 'weasel' coffee, also known as kopi luwak or civet coffee, which connoisseurs claim is the best in the world. While many believe its unique taste is wonderful, it is worth knowing that recent investigations have found unethical animal welfare practices on coffee farms across the region.
Top tip: "If you can't make it to the coffee hub, be sure to try a Vietnamese egg coffee while you're in Hanoi," says Jackie Scully, executive director of Wanderlust. “I loved Note Coffee House by the capital's main lake. Awash in its post-lifting from travelers from all over the world, it was more than just a caffeine boost."
7. Find Vietnam's best pho in Hanoi
Pho is a Vietnamese staple - a quick, delicious meal made with four simple ingredients: clear stock, boiled beef, rice noodles, and herbs or green onions. In Vietnam, you will find it served on street corners and in high-end restaurants, as well as in every family home.
Hanoi is famous as the pho capital of Vietnam. Every restaurant here boasts a secret recipe. Take your time to find the best - that's the fun part! But what if you want our advice? Go to Lo Duc in the French Quarter and sit down to pho thin.
This unassuming pho house with wooden benches and laminated tables does things a little differently – like roasting beef in garlic before adding it to the soup. Local foodies insist that it gives Pho an unusual smokiness, which you won't find in other restaurants. Pho Thin is always packed, but once you get inside, you'll know it was worth the wait.
8. Understand Vietnam's bloody past in Ho Chi Minh City
More than 60% of Vietnam's population was born after the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. But that doesn't mean its war-torn history has been ignored. As a nation, Vietnam has moved on, but the sacrifices made by both sides of the conflict are still remembered throughout the country, especially in Ho Chi Minh City.
The Ho Chi Minh City Museum has many informative exhibits and explains the country's bloody past through photographs, artefacts and memorabilia. It is sensitively done, without glossing over the brutality, and is (rather ironically) housed in Gia Long Palace, where Ngo Dinh Diem spent his last hours in power before his assassination in 1963.
The War Remnants Museum is a more grim - but equally necessary - reminder of local atrocities From gruesome bomb remnants and first-person accounts from war veterans to photographs of bloody guillotines and gruesome napalm burnings, it's a chilling reminder of life not so long ago.
9. Go to church, Vietnamese-style
Tay Ninh, a bustling city in the Mekong Delta, is perhaps the most unlikely holy city on the planet. Here, amidst the busy street stalls and noisy traffic is the Cao Dai Temple, the sacred site of the Cao Dai religion.
Caodaism is a Vietnamese hybrid religion founded in the 1920s. It unites Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism, occultism and Islam with the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of life and death. The community venerates among others: Jesus, Buddha, Mohammed and even the French novelist Victor Hugo.
From a distance, the temple towers resemble a parochial church. But closer inspection reveals an eclectic facade with sword-brandishing deities, swastikas, a communist red star and an Orwellian all-seeing eye.
Prayers are offered four times a day, which is popular with Ho Chi Minh City day-trippers around noon.
10. Cycle around Hue
Halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Hue marked the divide between North and South during the Vietnam War. Set on the beautiful Perfume River, it has always played an important role in Vietnam's history and is dotted with important historical sites.
It is also a great place for cycling. Set out in the cool of the morning and visit the Tiger Fighting Arena, three kilometers from the city. It was Vietnam's version of the Colosseum, a place where elephants and tigers would fight to honor the power of the monarchy. Next, visit the Tu Duc Tomb before reaching Vong Can Hill - the best spot for a scenic view of the Perfume River.
From Vong Can Hill, it's on to one of Hue's most atmospheric pagodas, Tu Hue, nestled in a quiet and picturesque pine forest. Before heading back to the city, swing by the tomb of Minh Mang, the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty.
After reaching the walled fortress of the Imperial Citadel, you have two options: take a leisurely bicycle ride through the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Vietnam's version of the Forbidden City, or enjoy a relaxing drink by the Perfume River.
11. Find romance at Sapa's love market
The market town of Sapa in Vietnam's mountainous north became popular in the 1930s as the first French hill station. Set on a 1,650-meter-high mountain ridge, the town boasts magnificent views of the Hoang Lien Mountains and a colorful market attended by hill tribes from the surrounding countryside every Saturday.
The city has become increasingly popular with tourists, but old traditions still lurk in its secret corners. One of these is the Love Market, where Dao (and Hmong) men and women come from miles around to sing love songs to each other. It was originally held at the end of trading at the Saturday market, but overzealous onlookers taking intrusive photographs drove the tradition underground.
The love market still exists, but now it takes place in secret locations, late at night, away from the eyes of visitors. But if your interest is genuine and you find a native willing to trust you, romance can still be found.
12. Ride past the Tam Coc rice fields
In 2014, the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex in Nih Binh Province, Northern Vietnam was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No surprise to anyone who has seen it with their own eyes: dramatic limestone karsts and sweeping, deep green valleys, often with boats floating along the Red River Delta.
The village of Tam Cốc-Bích Động (often spelled 'Tam Coc') falls under this complex and its famous rice paddies enjoy the same UNESCO-listed status. Without a doubt, the best way to experience them is to take a slow, lazy boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, admiring the otherworldly scenery as you go.
Getting to Tam Coc is easier than ever. Of course, the area has become more popular with visitors in recent years - with good reason. Buses and trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh take about three hours, organized day tours and two-day trips are available when you want to stop your travel plans.
However you go, you'll want to spend at least a day here, if not more, suggests Jackie Scully of Wanderlust. "Head to Hang Mua while in Ninh Binh province and you'll be rewarded with climbing 486 stone steps with an amazing view. Go early to avoid the heat."
13. Look for rare primates in Cat Tien National Park
Cat Tien National Park in southern Vietnam is a wildlife lover's dream: a 720 sq km biosphere reserve, made up of botanical gardens and lowland forests, offering an abundance of rare animals and birdlife, all safe and sheltered in a number of sanctuaries and rescue centres. .
Golden-cheeked gibbons, silver langurs and native pygmy loris are among the rare primates seen at the Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre. Ten thousand sun bears live in the Cat Tien Bear Sanctuary.
Asian elephants and clouded leopards are among the rare sightings that wildlife watchers have recorded in Cat Tien. Birders will also have their hands full, with sightings of Asian barred owlets, blue-rumped and bar-bellied petas and orange-throated pheasants – just to name a few – very possible.
Some of the park's animal residents come alive when the sky darkens, so if you're hoping to encounter some unique wildlife in Vietnam, consider staying overnight at one of Cat Tien's homestays or hotel accommodations and embark on a night drive.
An added bonus? Those going on a day trip will be back in Ho Chi Minh City by then, which is about three hours and 30 minutes by car, so you'll have more of the park to yourself.
14. The Marvel of Ban Gioc Falls
Ban Gioc is the name of not one, but two colliding waterfalls on the banks of the Kwai Son River – an iconic way to mark the Vietnam-China border, in Truong Khanh District, Cao Bang on the Vietnamese side, and Dexin County in Guangxi, China.
Here, you will take in one of the most breathtaking natural sights in Southeast Asia. Its sheer size (70 meters long, and 208 meters wide) is awe-inspiring in itself, but the way the waterfall cascades down its rocky, limestone face is most eye-catching. If you're up for the climb, it's possible to trek up to the 'Falls High Point', as long as you're equipped with the appropriate walking gear.
Once you've soaked up the vast views, there's plenty to see and do in the Khao Bang region, which sits high in the country's northeastern mountains. Caves to explore, local homestays to experience, and more majestic waterfalls beckon.
15. Admire the Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang
Have you ever seen a bridge like this? The Golden Bridge (or Golden Hands Bridge, or Giant Hands Bridge) in Da Nang Province is one of a kind.
Pedestrians can walk along the 150-meter-long path, seemingly-endless over the lush greenery of the mountains, and feel as if they are holding two giant, god-like stone hands in the sky. As it happens, the stone arm is not held up by God himself, but by a solid steel frame and fiberglass.
The reality-warping structure was created to attract more visitors to the Da Nang region, and certainly no one can deny its social media success. The #GoldenBridge hashtag alone has over 124,000 photos of the bridge.
If you visit Vietnam and you don't post pictures of the Golden Hands Bridge on your Instagram page, did your trip even happen?!
16. Embrace the tranquility on Phu Quoc Island
There is no shortage of things to see and do in Phu Quoc. Wildlife lovers can visit Vinpearl Safari Care and Conservation Park to meet elephants, white Bengal tigers, macaques and silver langurs. Get close to nature, walking through the dense jungle of Phu Quoc National Park and admiring the gentle waves of Suoi Tran Waterfall.
Once you're all out, take the incredibly long cable car to Thom Nature Park, or relax on the pristine white sands of Sao Beach, Wong Lang or remote Khem Beach. Surrounded by palm trees and forests, you'll feel like you're sitting on the edge of heaven.
17. Live with the locals in My Chau
Head off the tourist trail to the rural northwestern province of Hòa Bình. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore the Mai Chau Valley surrounded by mountains and rice fields. A 'hidden gem', if we ever saw one.
To get a small idea of daily life in this part of the country, stay with a local, white Tai family at a homestay. Your best bet is one of two villages: Lac or Pum Kung. Whichever you choose, you'll wake up every morning to rice paddies and unbelievably-green Vietnamese countryside. The Vietnamese Tourist Board recommends choosing your homestay near Hieu, for its beautiful scenery.
Once you've settled in, it's time to appreciate the lifestyle of the White Tai community. Cycle through My Chau on a rented bike, or visit the market to buy exquisitely-bright, locally woven textiles. If you can tear your eyes away from the natural wonders of your village, a day trip to the sparkling, under-appreciated Hoa Binh Lake makes a wonderful trek.
18. Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter
The Old Quarter in Hanoi is a vibrant area that captures the heart and history of Vietnam. This bustling neighborhood is a must-see for anyone exploring things to do Vietnam. Winding streets and narrow alleys are filled with shops and street vendors selling everything from traditional Vietnamese foods to handmade crafts. A stroll through the Old Quarter offers a sensory feast; the sounds of motorbikes whizzing by, the aromas of pho and banh mi, and the sight of colorful lanterns and buildings. Key attractions include the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and the ancient Bach Ma Temple, providing a perfect blend of history and culture.
Whether you’re looking to shop, eat, or simply soak up the local atmosphere, the Old Quarter is an essential stop when listing things to do Vietnam. With its unique charm and endless activities, it’s clear why exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter is among the top things to do Vietnam.
19. Cruise Halong Bay
A cruise on Halong Bay is one of the quintessential things to do Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. The beauty of the bay is best experienced by boat, where you can sail past the iconic rock formations and enjoy breathtaking views. Many cruises offer opportunities for kayaking, visiting floating villages, and exploring caves, making it a perfect adventure for nature lovers.
As you glide through the serene waters, you’ll understand why a Halong Bay cruise is considered one of the best things to do Vietnam. The combination of stunning scenery and unique cultural experiences makes this a must-do activity when visiting the country. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, a Halong Bay cruise should be high on your list of things to do Vietnam.
20. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a profound experience and one of the essential things to do Vietnam. Located in the heart of Hanoi, this imposing structure is the final resting place of Vietnam’s most iconic leader, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage for many Vietnamese, reflecting the deep respect and reverence for the man who played a pivotal role in the country’s history. Visitors can pay their respects and view Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body, making this a unique and solemn experience.
The surrounding complex also includes the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, providing a comprehensive insight into his life and legacy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Vietnamese culture, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must-see. Including this visit in your itinerary is essential when considering things to do Vietnam.
21. Discover Sapa
Nestled in the mountains of Northern Vietnam, Sapa is a destination that should top your list of things to do Vietnam. Known for its stunning landscapes, terraced rice fields, and vibrant local culture, Sapa offers an unforgettable experience. The region is home to various ethnic minority groups, each with its distinct customs and traditional attire, making it a fascinating place to explore. Trekking through the lush valleys and climbing the peaks of the Hoang Lien Son range are among the top activities in Sapa, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
The town itself is charming, with a bustling market where you can buy handmade crafts and sample local cuisine. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a cultural enthusiast, discovering Sapa is one of the most rewarding things to do Vietnam. The combination of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a highlight of any trip to the country.
22. Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Ancient Town is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see when exploring the things to do Vietnam. This charming town is known for its well-preserved architecture, showcasing a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. The narrow streets are lined with colorful lanterns, traditional shophouses, and vibrant markets, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural heritage. Walking through the town, you’ll discover historic temples, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and bustling riverside markets.
The town comes alive at night with its illuminated lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just looking to soak up the unique ambiance, Hoi An Ancient Town is an essential stop. Exploring this enchanting town is one of the most unforgettable things to do Vietnam, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and charm.
23. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a spectacular natural wonder and a highlight among the things to do Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its incredible karst mountains and extensive cave systems, including some of the world’s largest and most impressive caves. Exploring the park offers a unique adventure, from trekking through lush jungles to discovering the surreal underground landscapes.
Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, is a major draw, offering a breathtaking experience for those lucky enough to secure a spot on a tour. Other notable caves include Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave, each offering its distinct charm and beauty. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a nature enthusiast, a visit to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park should be on your list of things to do Vietnam. The park's diverse ecosystem and awe-inspiring scenery make it a must-see destination.
24. Visit the Imperial City in Hue
Visiting the Imperial City in Hue is a journey through Vietnam’s rich history and a key part of the things to do Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty and is a remarkable example of ancient Vietnamese architecture. The Citadel, with its massive walls and intricate palaces, reflects the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial past. Visitors can explore the Forbidden Purple City, the Royal Theater, and numerous temples and pavilions, each offering a glimpse into the life of Vietnam’s emperors.
The Perfume River, which flows nearby, adds to the city’s serene and majestic atmosphere. The Imperial City’s detailed architecture and historical significance make it an essential stop for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Vietnam. A visit to this historic site provides a deeper understanding of the country’s past and is a highlight of any list of things to do Vietnam.
25. My Son Sanctuary
My Son Sanctuary is an ancient Hindu temple complex and a must-see when listing the things to do Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in a lush valley and is surrounded by mountains, offering a stunning backdrop to the impressive ruins. Once the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom, My Son boasts intricate carvings and beautifully crafted brick towers, showcasing the artistry of the Cham people. Exploring the sanctuary provides a fascinating insight into the history and culture of this ancient civilization.
Despite the passage of time and the impact of wars, the remaining structures exude a sense of grandeur and mystery. Whether you're a history buff or simply intrigued by ancient architecture, My Son Sanctuary is a compelling addition to your itinerary. Its unique cultural significance and serene beauty make it one of the most rewarding things to do Vietnam.
FAQ: Things to Do in Vietnam
1. What are the must-visit attractions in Vietnam?
Vietnam boasts several must-visit attractions, including the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, My Son Sanctuary near Hoi An, the stunning natural wonder of Halong Bay, and the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and Ben Thanh Market.
2. When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
The best time to visit Vietnam varies by region. The north is best visited during spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November). The south is ideal from November to April, as these months are generally drier and cooler.
3. What are some unique cultural experiences in Vietnam?
Travelers can engage in unique cultural experiences such as homestays in rural villages, cooking classes in Hue, and participating in traditional festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year) and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
4. How can I travel around Vietnam?
Vietnam has an extensive transportation network, including trains, buses, and domestic flights. Motorbikes are also a popular mode of transportation for exploring cities and rural areas.
5. What should I pack for a trip to Vietnam?
Pack light, breathable clothing for the south and warmer layers for the north. Essentials include sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and comfortable walking shoes.
6. Is Vietnam a safe destination for travelers?
Vietnam is generally safe for travelers. However, visitors should stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and keep their belongings secure to avoid scams and theft.
7. What are the top dishes to try in Vietnam?
Must-try dishes in Vietnam include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), and the country’s renowned coffee.
8. What is the average cost of traveling in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a budget-friendly destination. Average costs include accommodation ranging from $10 to $100 per night, meals between $2 and $20, and local transport being very economical.
9. What health precautions should I take before traveling to Vietnam?
Ensure you’re up-to-date with vaccinations and carry any necessary medications. Drink bottled water and opt for well-cooked meals to avoid foodborne illnesses.
10. Can I engage in outdoor activities and adventures in Vietnam?
Absolutely! Vietnam offers activities like trekking in Sapa, caving in Phong Nha, and beach relaxation in Nha Trang, catering to both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation.
Conclusion
Vietnam is a destination that offers something for every traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing getaway, Vietnam's rich heritage and natural beauty promise an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be captivated by the warmth of its people and the richness of its traditions.