Visiting Vietnam is not like many different locations, mixing an enchanting mix of journey, historical past, and scenic magnificence that’s unmatched. If you need an enchanting journey in Southeast Asia with a mix of previous and current, Vietnam is the place for you! There are so many issues to do in Vietnam; you may simply spend two months exploring its countryside. We spent 30 days in Vietnam, and even that was barely sufficient time to see every part this various nation provides.
Top issues to do in Vietnam
Be it the mesmerizing views of Sapa and Ha Long, the fascinating historical past of the DMZ and Cu Chi Tunnels, or the busier hubs of Hanoi, Vietnam will “WOW” the adventurous spirit in you. Here are our favourite issues to do in Vietnam.
We labored our approach from Southern Vietnam to the North, beginning from the border of Cambodia. Vietnam has some superb websites to see. From lovely pure wonders to incredible procuring, mountain adventures, and chill-out seashore life, Vietnam has one thing to supply for everybody.
The checklist of issues to do in Vietnam is countless, and you may go to Vietnam many times. But this information will assist you to plan the must-see sights and high locations to go to in Vietnam.
1. Visit Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a surprise of nature in the South China Sea, the place 1000’s of islands jut out of the turquoise water, making a endless horizon of mountains.
Taking a ship tour of Vietnam is like getting into a legendary world of emerald waters and towering karst formations dot the horizon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, identified for its breathtaking pure magnificence, is a high spotlight for any Vietnam itinerary. You can e-book your 2-day cruise right here.
You can kayak by way of hidden lagoons, discover magnificent caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung, and even discover a secluded cove for a swim. Halong Bay is likely one of the high issues to do in Vietnam, and it was our most memorable expertise. We explored the labyrinth on a small teak cabin cruiser, the place we had our non-public bunk and had been handled to a feast.
Sleeping in the bay surrounded by these sleeping giants whereas trying into the clear evening sky is a singular expertise Read: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay – How to Choose Your Vietnam Cruise?
2. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is a slice of paradise that’s good for anybody trying to add a little bit of journey and leisure to their Vietnam journey. Tucked away in the Gulf of Tonkin, only a stone’s throw from the well-known Halong Bay, this laid-back island is all about hanging surroundings with its cool jungles, superior limestone cliffs, and dreamy seashores.
Cruises usually embrace a go to to one of many caves on Cat Ba Island throughout our Halong Bay cruise. There are 4 attention-grabbing caves on the island. Hospital Cave served as a hospital for wounded troopers and a bomb shelter for the Vietnamese. Trung Trang Cave is the most important cave on the island, and Hoa Cuong Cave is understood for its lovely stalactites.
If you’re into snorkeling, the clear waters across the island are a deal with. For those that love a superb trek, the paths by way of Cat Ba National Park are a must-try – you by no means know what wildlife you would possibly spot! And hey, if chilling on the seashore is extra your factor, Cat Ba’s acquired you coated. Plus, it’s the right spot to jump over to the attractive Lan Ha Bay for some enjoyable on the water.
3. Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay is an alternate to Halong Bay for vacationers who love to uncover the highway much less traveled. Nestled simply off the crushed path of its well-known neighbor, Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long provides a extra laid-back, genuine expertise.
It’s the right place to escape the crowds whereas cruising on a standard junk boat, surrounded by serene emerald waters and dramatic limestone karsts. You can discover hidden caves, go to fishing villages, and even discover secret seashores to have all to your self.
The vibe right here is all about taking it straightforward and savoring the second. Whether you’re kayaking in the bay’s calm waters or simply chilling on the deck of your boat, Bai Tu Long Bay is the final word place to calm down and soak in a few of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Check out costs and availability right here.
4. Sapa
A journey by way of the jaw-dropping mountain surroundings of Sapa took our breath away in extra methods than one! Trekking by way of the excessive rice terraces close to a mountain city close to the Chinese border looks like you might be strolling by way of a postcard.
We stayed with the hill tribes, visiting ethnic minority villages of the Hmong, Red Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho Peoples. We trekked for 3 days by way of the huge rice terraces of this rugged land. The magnificence is overwhelming as each nook I flip leaves me extra amazed.
Giant terraces crammed with water glistened in the solar for so far as we might see. Water buffalo graze in the fields, and villagers dressed in conventional handmade clothes greeted us as we walked alongside the trail.
The villagers reside by the outdated methods right here. They harness water from the mountain to use as irrigation, they hand weave their very own materials, they usually develop their very own rice. They are a individuals really at one with the land.
5. Rice Fields of Tam Coc
The enchanting Rice Fields of Tam Coc is a hidden gem in Vietnam’s picturesque Ninh Binh province. Often referred to because the ‘Halong Bay on Land’, Tam Coc is a dreamy panorama of lush inexperienced rice fields surrounded by towering limestone karsts, finest explored by a leisurely boat journey alongside the Ngo Dong River.
As you glide by way of the water, you’ll be captivated by the tranquil great thing about the rice paddies, with native farmers tending to their fields and the majestic hills offering a shocking backdrop. Each season brings a special hue to the fields, from emerald inexperienced in the spring to golden yellow throughout harvest time.
Tam Coc isn’t simply concerning the surroundings; it’s a spot to join with the peaceable rhythm of rural Vietnamese life. Don’t overlook to carry your digicam, because the pure magnificence right here is solely photogenic. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply somebody in search of a serene escape, the Rice Fields of Tam Coc promise an expertise that’s each soothing and visually spectacular, making it a high choose to your Vietnam itinerary.
6. Hanoi
Hanoi is hectic and overwhelming; even crossing the road will be an journey. We sat on a second-floor terrace watching individuals take their lives in their arms as they crossed the highway a busy intersection like a recreation of Frogger. , it was undoubtedly quite a lot of hours of amusement.
We explored Hanoi’s sights, consuming French baguettes and sipping lattes on Hoan Klem Lake. This is a superb place to escape the hectic tempo of town. Hanoi has a wealthy French colonial previous, and to see it, you want to discover Hanoi’s outdated quarter.
It can be in Hanoi that you just see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum honoring Ho Chi Minh who was the founder of recent Vietnam. Other issues not to miss in Hanoi are the Magical Water Puppet Show, persevering with a thousand-year-old custom, the temple of literature, and you will need to pattern Vietnamese meals on a meals tour of Hanoi. Read More: The 29 Best Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Suggested Food Tours Hanoi
Street Food Tour – Take a stroll by way of the outdated quarter of Hanoi with a neighborhood information. Sample avenue meals and native favorites. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Street meals and Water Puppet Show Combo – Sample scrumptious Vietnamese, find out about Hanoi’s distinctive meals tradition, benefit from the evening view of Hoan Kiem Lake and end off with the water puppet present. Easy cancellation on excursions with 24 hours’ discover.
7. Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City (previously Saigon) is a bustle with markets, meals stalls, and nightclubs. This is the place our Vietnam journey started, and it was an eye-opener of a primary cease. A metropolis of seven million individuals, Ho Chi Minh City, is the center of Vietnamese nightlife, with Karaoke bars, nightclubs, and lots of locations providing low-cost beer and cocktails.
Trishaw drivers received’t take no for a solution as they observe you down the road trying to make their fare. Where procuring is the primary precedence and dodging touts is a full-time job.
The metropolis has French colonial buildings blended between neon lights and skyscrapers. The hottest vacationer sights are most likely the Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Binh and Tay Market.
8. War Remnants Museum
No one can overlook the Vietnam War, and there are various tributes and locations to go to in Vietnam that pay respect to the nation’s conflict historical past. In Ho Chi Minh City, The War Remnants Museum is an emotional take a look at the consequences of conflict. A stand-out show was one which honored photographers and correspondents who misplaced their lives protecting the conflict.
Other sights to see in Ho Chi Minh City are the Reunification Palace, which is the location the place the Vietnam War symbolically got here to an finish. We walked by the American Embassy, identified for the notorious rooftop helicopter evacuations after the autumn of Saigon, and we checked out the thriving waterfront with luxurious accommodations, nightclubs, and the bustling Mekong River.
Paying tribute to its French colonial previous, town can be house to a cathedral named after Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Check out all of the issues to do at The Best of Ho Chi Minh City
9. The Cu Chi Tunnels
The fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels are a tremendous day journey from Ho Chi Minh the place you may expertise what the Viet Cong troopers and fighters went by way of dwelling life underground through the conflict.
Agent Orange, napalm, and fixed bombing worn out the jungle through the Vietnam War, however it’s now lush and inexperienced and is likely one of the hottest vacationer sights in Vietnam.
Our information confirmed us how the Vietnamese would escape in the jungle and camouflage the entrances with termite hills. We discovered that they fought in sandals created from vehicle tires to keep away from jungle rot. And we discovered how they wore checkered scarves to announce that they had been preventing for the North and the way farmers snuck meals to troopers.
It was then into the claustrophobic authentic tunnel to crawl for 100m in darkness to get a way of simply how uncomfortable the circumstances had been. Read extra at The Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam
10. Cruise the Mekong Delta
The Mekong River is an enormous river spanning 4500km of various wildlife and unbelievable views, beginning in China and flowing by way of Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam earlier than ending on the Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. One of the most effective issues to do in Vietnam is to e-book a tour of the Mekong Delta to see its floating markets,
Along the best way, one can find floating markets promoting native produce and every part from fruit and greens to conical hats and faux clothes, not like the markets in Ho Chi Minh City.
At small factories, we discovered how to make coconut sweet and rice paper, being supplied a style to entice us into shopping for a memento. It is all just a little contrived at occasions as they fight very exhausting to make you buy one thing, however the surroundings is unbelievable, and watching native life unfold is fascinating.
Book a full day Mekong Delta Tour together with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels with Get Your Guide. Free cancelation for a full refund inside 24 hours of exercise.
Ho Chi Min City Tour firms supply nice bundle offers preventing for vacationer {dollars} to all locations. Life stays unchanged in the Cu Chi Tunnels as farmers nonetheless carry their produce to the floating market and other people nonetheless wash their garments by hand on its banks.
11. Beautiful Beaches of Mui Ne
Our first seashore cease in Vietnam was Mui Ne, and it was our favourite. A spectacular beachfront the place kite surfers journey the waves in its windy bay, and the sunsets listed below are a number of the most spectacular you’ll ever see. The excessive winds whip and swirl the clouds all through the day, and when nightfall units in, the setting solar illuminates the sky with deep reds and vibrant yellows.
Mui Ne could have lovely seashores, however the spotlight of the go to was going to the sand dunes. A brief jeep journey takes you out to the city’s foremost attraction of large rolling hills of sand surrounded by inexperienced fields trying as if a little bit of the Sahara has been dropped into South East Asia. We walked to the highest in the scorching warmth and took an exhilarating magic carpet journey down its sandy banks.
Tour operators can take you out for some sandboarding and mountain climbing on the huge dunes.
12. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island is nearer to Cambodia than Vietnam, nevertheless it is part of the Vietnamese territory. When we had been in Vietnam, it was just a little off the crushed path and reserved for backpackers, nevertheless it has gained in standing thanks to its attractive seashores, crystal clear waters, and incredible nightlife. There are loads of issues to do in Phu Quoc. It now has excessive finish resorts providing jet snowboarding, scuba diving, fishing, and private boat rent are all nice choices.
It has acquired a little bit of a legendary standing with backpackers in Vietnam due to its gorgeous seashores, clear seas, and nice bars.
13. Hoi An
Image by by photographer Réhahn. See his full photostory of Vietnam right here.
Hoi An has a thousand-year historical past luring guests to its historic buildings alongside the Thu Bon River. The river has been attracting merchants from the South China Sea for hundreds of years. This historic city is a mix of Asian and colonial structure with sidewalk cafés and cobblestone streets.
If you occur to be in Hoi An through the Vietnamese New Year (Tet Festival), you’ll witness 1000’s of lanterns lining the roads.
It is really a photographer’s dream with picture alternatives of the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Lantern Festival, and the distinction between Chinese tube homes and French colonial buildings.
Tailor-made Clothes in Hoi An
Hoi An is a favourite of many vacationers to Vietnam to have some tailored garments whipped up in a matter of hours! Choosing a store will be tough and we had been standing in the wet avenue confused when a girl approached us and mentioned to observe her. Reluctantly, we adopted her by way of winding streets and alleyways after we lastly got here to her store in the market.
We proceeded to select patterns and types whereas a military of girls took our measurements and aided us in selecting supplies and colours from partitions of material. We spent approach an excessive amount of cash and acquired caught up in the frenzy of shopping for, knocking off a number of days of our funds on 25 kilos of garments that we despatched house to Canada.
Word of warning: Take your time, and don’t get talked into something. Know what you need to be made and ask for it to be double-stitched. We had been very proud of our purchases and are glad we had garments made in Vietnam.
14. Mud Bath in Nha Trang
The subsequent seashore cease took us to Nha Trang. It’s a far busier seashore city with high-rise buildings, large resorts, nightclubs, and positive eating. This lengthy stretch of seashore is well-developed and touts are all over the place promoting jewellery, hats, t-shirts, and naturally low-cost photocopied books.
We took a day to go to the Thap Ba Hot Springs the place we took a dip in the mud baths to bask in its cool medicinal mud. There’s a therapeutic mineral waterfall, hydrotherapy, and a swimming pool. All of my travel-weary bones and muscle tissues are handled to a calming day of pampering and nurturing, making ready me for the times to come. The mud baths are an reasonably priced day on the spa and a really distinctive expertise.
15. Dragon’s Bridge of Da Nang
Da Nang, Vietnam’s vibrant coastal metropolis, is an absolute must-visit for anybody hitting up Vietnam. It’s an superior mix of recent vibes and conventional allure set in opposition to a backdrop of gorgeous seashores and rolling mountains. What’s not to love? Whether you’re into browsing the waves at My Khe Beach, exploring the Marble Mountains, or simply having fun with the laid-back beachside environment, Da Nang has one thing for everybody. And let’s not overlook town’s iconic Dragon Bridge – it breathes hearth and water, which is as cool because it sounds!
Dragon Bridge is the longest bridge in Vietnam, spanning 666 meters throughout the Han River. Seeing it at evening is a should because it lights up and the dragon spits hearth and water throughout festivals and on weekends.
Foodies, you’re in for a deal with right here, too. The native delicacies is out of this world, with avenue meals stalls and upscale eating places serving up a number of the finest flavors in Vietnam. Plus, Da Nang’s central location makes it the right base for day journeys to Hoi An or the imperial metropolis of Hue.
16. Golden Bridge
Located an hour and a half from town, the Golden Bridge is certainly one of Vietnam’s latest and most jaw-dropping sights in the Da Nang area. Architect Vu Viet Hong created it to “invoke the sensation of walking along a thread stretching through the hands of God.”
This attraction is a part of the Sun World Ba Na Hills Amusement Park. It was created strictly to lure vacationers to the world, and it labored! It wasn’t but created after we had been in Vietnam, however we had to embrace it as a result of it’s not to be missed! Standing 1,000 meters (3,280 toes) above sea stage, it extends over the sting of a cliff. The Ba Na Hills used to be a hill station for French colonialists
17. Imperial City of Hue
Hue is situated in Central Vietnam and is a treasure trove of historical past and tradition, making it a must-visit for anybody touring Vietnam. This historic metropolis, as soon as the imperial capital, is house to the gorgeous Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s like stepping again in time.
Walking by way of the sprawling advanced of temples, pavilions, and museums, you’ll get an actual sense of Vietnam’s royal previous. Here, you’ll discover the tombs of the Ancient emperors. The Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s Vietnam’s reply to China’s Forbidden City. The walled fortress was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945.
But there’s extra to Hue than simply its historic websites. The metropolis can be well-known for its distinctive Vietnamese delicacies, providing dishes you received’t discover wherever else in the nation – suppose wealthy, flavorful broths and delicately crafted bites.
Plus, the serene Perfume River provides a picturesque allure to town, good for a leisurely boat journey or night stroll alongside its banks. Whether you’re a historical past buff, a foodie, or simply trying to discover a less-traveled path, Hue has one thing particular to supply.
18. DMZ Tour
The DMZ in Central Vietnam was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam, and it’s right here that you may tour many conflict relics. Hue was additionally the place we booked a full-day tour to discover the DMZ zone.
If you’re a historical past buff, it is a fascinating tour. We stopped on the former headquarters of the US Marines, Dong Ha, and well-known battlegrounds like Hamburger Hill. (there was a film made about this battle.)
We additionally visited one other set of tunnels that had been a lot greater than the Cu Chi Tunnels. The Vinh Moc Tunnels had been a strategic level for the Vietnamese to conceal from American bombers.
19. Caves of Phong Nha
If you may have time to plan and a few deep pockets, the caves of Phong Nha are a should. Hang Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, and there’s a lengthy ready checklist to see it! Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site will be visited on a day journey or an expedition of up to 5 days.
Discovered in 2009 in the Quang Binh province, this large cave boasts sections up to 200 meters excessive and 150 meters large, full with its personal climate system and distinctive ecosystem. The journey to Son Doong Cave is a multi-day trek, normally spanning 4 to 5 days, and entails mountain climbing, tenting, river crossings, and navigating the rugged terrain of the nationwide park.
There are different caves in Phong Naha in addition to Son Doong so for those who don’t have the cash or time to spare, it’s also possible to take a look at Hang En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Hang Tien Cave, Hang Va Cave, and Nuoc Nut Cave.
All excursions are carried out by licensed tour operators with skilled guides to guarantee security and minimal environmental influence. The excursions usually contain native porters and guides, offering financial advantages to the group and selling sustainable tourism.
20. Ngo Dong River
The Ngo Dong River in Vietnam is a serene escape that’s good for vacationers trying to take in some distinctive Vietnamese surroundings. Picture this: you’re gently rowing down a relaxed, winding river flanked by lush, inexperienced rice fields and towering limestone cliffs. It’s like stepping right into a postcard!
Located in the scenic Tam Coc area, a journey alongside the Ngo Dong River is all about embracing the peaceable vibes and breathtaking views. It’s the place you’ll get these superior images of native life, with farmers working in the fields and fishers casting their nets. And don’t overlook concerning the unbelievable limestone caves you’ll cross by way of – it’s like nature’s personal cathedral.
Whether you’re a solo explorer or with your loved ones, a visit down the Ngo Dong River is a must-do. It’s not only a boat journey; it’s an expertise that allows you to join with the tranquil great thing about Vietnam in a approach that’s each enjoyable and unforgettable. So, if you’re planning your Vietnam journey, be sure that to add the Ngo Dong River to your itinerary – it’s a spotlight that’s not to be missed!
21. the Central Highlands
The Central Highlands’ cool local weather, particularly in cities like Da Lat, identified for its French colonial structure, flower gardens, and pine-covered hills, provides a refreshing retreat from Vietnam’s tropical warmth. Da Lat is especially well-known for its journey sports activities like canyoning, mountain biking, and mountain climbing.
The Central Highlands of Vietnam a area of serene magnificence identified for its rolling hills, dense forests, and ethnic minority villages. This a part of Vietnam gives a stark distinction to the nation’s bustling cities.
Here there are alternatives for trekking and exploring the quite a few nationwide parks like Yok Don and Bidoup Nui Ba.
The area can be a haven for espresso lovers, because it’s the center of Vietnam’s coffee-growing trade. You can go to plantations in Buon Ma Thuot, the espresso capital of Vietnam, and luxuriate in freshly brewed native varieties.
Cultural experiences abound in the Central Highlands. Visitors can immerse themselves in the distinctive traditions of the native ethnic teams, such because the Ede and M’nong, by visiting their villages, experiencing their conventional gong music, and studying about their lifestyle.
The area’s markets, particularly in cities like Kon Tum and Pleiku, are vibrant and colourful, providing a glimpse into the every day lifetime of the highlanders.
22. Indulge in Vietnamese Cuisine
Did you realize that Vietnamese tradition is likely one of the oldest in Southeast Asia? This spectacular feat has given the Vietnamese individuals loads of time to grasp their artwork of cooking. Today, the most effective Vietnamese delicacies is in eating places world wide.
One factor you’ll discover that you’ll eat continually is Pho, their rice noodle soup that’s past scrumptious. But there are many dishes to strive with influences from its French Colonial occasions and historic traditions. From Vietnamese egg espresso to Banh mi, a French stuffed baguette and staple rice noodles, the delicacies of Vietnam is as various as its areas. Local meals modifications as you journey from northern Vietnam to the south, and it’s straightforward to dig into conventional delicacies at avenue stalls and small cafes.
And these are the most effective issues to do in Vietnam. Have you been? What do you counsel for the highest Vietnam sights?