Visiting Vietnam is not like many different locations, mixing an interesting mix of journey, historical past, and scenic magnificence that’s unmatched. In order for you an interesting journey in Southeast Asia with a mix of previous and current, Vietnam is the place for you! There are such a lot of issues to do in Vietnam; you possibly can simply spend two months exploring its countryside. We spent 30 days in Vietnam, and even that was barely sufficient time to see all the pieces this numerous nation gives.
High issues to do in Vietnam
Be it the mesmerizing views of Sapa and Ha Lengthy, 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. Listed here are our favourite issues to do in Vietnam.
We labored our method from Southern Vietnam to the North, beginning from the border of Cambodia. Vietnam has some wonderful websites to see. From lovely pure wonders to unbelievable procuring, mountain adventures, and chill-out seashore life, Vietnam has one thing to supply for everybody.
The listing of issues to do in Vietnam is infinite, and you possibly can go to Vietnam repeatedly. However this information will show you how to plan the must-see sights and prime locations to go to in Vietnam.
1. Go to Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a marvel of nature within the South China Sea, the place hundreds 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 Website, recognized for its breathtaking pure magnificence, is a prime spotlight for any Vietnam itinerary. You may e book your 2-day cruise right here.
You may kayak via hidden lagoons, discover magnificent caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung, and even discover a secluded cove for a swim. Halong Bay is without doubt one of the prime 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 personal bunk and have been handled to a feast.
Sleeping within the bay surrounded by these sleeping giants whereas wanting into the clear night time sky is a singular expertise Learn: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Lengthy Bay – Methods to Select Your Vietnam Cruise?
2. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is a slice of paradise that’s excellent for anybody wanting so as to add a little bit of journey and leisure to their Vietnam journey. Tucked away within 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 typically embrace a go to to one of many caves on Cat Ba Island throughout our Halong Bay cruise. There are 4 fascinating 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 thought for its lovely stalactites.
If you happen to’re into snorkeling, the clear waters across the island are a deal with. For many who love a great trek, the paths via Cat Ba Nationwide Park are a must-try – you by no means know what wildlife you may spot! And hey, if chilling on the seashore is extra your factor, Cat Ba’s acquired you coated. Plus, it’s the proper spot to jump over to the beautiful Lan Ha Bay for some enjoyable on the water.
3. Bai Tu Lengthy Bay
Bai Tu Lengthy Bay is an alternative choice to Halong Bay for vacationers who love to find the highway much less traveled. Nestled simply off the crushed path of its well-known neighbor, Ha Lengthy Bay, Bai Tu Lengthy gives a extra laid-back, genuine expertise.
It’s the proper place to flee the crowds whereas cruising on a standard junk boat, surrounded by serene emerald waters and dramatic limestone karsts. You may 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 or not you’re kayaking within the bay’s calm waters or simply chilling on the deck of your boat, Bai Tu Lengthy Bay is the last word place to chill out and soak in a few of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Take a look at costs and availability right here.
4. Sapa
A journey via the jaw-dropping mountain surroundings of Sapa took our breath away in additional methods than one! Trekking via the excessive rice terraces close to a mountain city close to the Chinese language border seems like you might be strolling via a postcard.
We stayed with the hill tribes, visiting ethnic minority villages of the Hmong, Purple Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho Peoples. We trekked for 3 days via the huge rice terraces of this rugged land. The wonder is overwhelming as each nook I flip leaves me extra amazed.
Large terraces stuffed with water glistened within the solar for so far as we might see. Water buffalo graze within the fields, and villagers wearing conventional handmade clothes greeted us as we walked alongside the trail.
The villagers dwell by the previous methods right here. They harness water from the mountain to make use of as irrigation, they hand weave their very own materials, they usually develop their very own rice. They’re a individuals actually 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. Sometimes called the ‘Halong Bay on Land’, Tam Coc is a dreamy panorama of lush inexperienced rice fields surrounded by towering limestone karsts, greatest explored by a leisurely boat journey alongside the Ngo Dong River.
As you glide via the water, you’ll be captivated by the tranquil fantastic thing about the rice paddies, with native farmers tending to their fields and the majestic hills offering a shocking backdrop. Every season brings a special hue to the fields, from emerald inexperienced within the spring to golden yellow throughout harvest time.
Tam Coc isn’t simply concerning the surroundings; it’s a spot to attach with the peaceable rhythm of rural Vietnamese life. Don’t overlook to convey your digital camera, because the pure magnificence right here is just photogenic. Whether or not you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply somebody looking for a serene escape, the Rice Fields of Tam Coc promise an expertise that’s each soothing and visually spectacular, making it a prime 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 of their palms as they crossed the highway a busy intersection like a sport of Frogger. , it was undoubtedly a variety of hours of amusement.
We explored Hanoi’s sights, consuming French baguettes and sipping lattes on Hoan Klem Lake. It is a excellent place to flee the hectic tempo of town. Hanoi has a wealthy French colonial previous, and to see it, that you must discover Hanoi’s previous quarter.
It is usually in Hanoi that you just see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum honoring Ho Chi Minh who was the founder of recent Vietnam. Different issues to not miss in Hanoi are the Magical Water Puppet Present, 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. Learn Extra: The 29 Greatest Issues to do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Instructed Meals Excursions Hanoi
- Road Meals Tour – Take a stroll via the previous quarter of Hanoi with a neighborhood information. Pattern road meals and native favorites. Free cancellation as much as 24 hours prematurely.
- Road meals and Water Puppet Present Combo – Pattern scrumptious Vietnamese, find out about Hanoi’s distinctive meals tradition, benefit from the night time view of Hoan Kiem Lake and end off with the water puppet present. Simple cancellation on excursions with 24 hours’ discover.
7. Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
Ho Chi Minh Metropolis (previously Saigon) is a bustle with markets, meals stalls, and nightclubs. That 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 Metropolis, is the guts of Vietnamese nightlife, with Karaoke bars, nightclubs, and lots of locations providing low cost beer and cocktails.
Trishaw drivers gained’t take no for a solution as they observe you down the road seeking to make their fare. The place procuring is the primary precedence and dodging touts is a full-time job.
The town has French colonial buildings blended between neon lights and skyscrapers. The most well-liked vacationer sights are in all probability the Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Binh and Tay Market.
8. Battle Remnants Museum
Nobody can overlook the Vietnam Battle, and there are numerous tributes and locations to go to in Vietnam that pay respect to the nation’s battle historical past. In Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, The Battle Remnants Museum is an emotional have a look at the consequences of battle. A stand-out show was one which honored photographers and correspondents who misplaced their lives masking the battle.
Different sights to see in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis are the Reunification Palace, which is the positioning the place the Vietnam Battle symbolically got here to an finish. We walked by the American Embassy, recognized for the notorious rooftop helicopter evacuations after the autumn of Saigon, and we checked out the thriving waterfront with luxurious lodges, nightclubs, and the bustling Mekong River.
Paying tribute to its French colonial previous, town can also be residence to a cathedral named after Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Take a look at all of the issues to do at The Better of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
9. The Cu Chi Tunnels
The fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels are an incredible day journey from Ho Chi Minh the place you may expertise what the Viet Cong troopers and fighters went via dwelling life underground through the battle.
Agent Orange, napalm, and fixed bombing worn out the jungle through the Vietnam Battle, however it’s now lush and inexperienced and is without doubt one of the hottest vacationer sights in Vietnam.
Our information confirmed us how the Vietnamese would escape within the jungle and camouflage the entrances with termite hills. We realized that they fought in sandals produced from car tires to keep away from jungle rot. And we realized how they wore checkered scarves to announce that they have been preventing for the North and the way farmers snuck meals to troopers.
It was then into the claustrophobic unique tunnel to crawl for 100m in darkness to get a way of simply how uncomfortable the situations have been. Learn extra at The Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam
10. Cruise the Mekong Delta
The Mekong River is an enormous river spanning 4500km of numerous wildlife and unbelievable views, beginning in China and flowing via Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam earlier than ending on the Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. Among the best issues to do in Vietnam is to e book a tour of the Mekong Delta to see its floating markets,
Alongside the best way, you’ll discover floating markets promoting native produce and all the pieces from fruit and greens to conical hats and faux clothes, not like the markets in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
At small factories, we realized learn how to make coconut sweet and rice paper, being supplied a style to entice us into shopping for a memento. It’s all just a little contrived at occasions as they fight very laborious to make you buy one thing, however the surroundings is unbelievable, and watching native life unfold is fascinating.
E-book a full day Mekong Delta Tour together with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels with Get Your Information. Free cancelation for a full refund inside 24 hours of exercise.
Ho Chi Min Metropolis Tour corporations supply nice package deal offers preventing for vacationer {dollars} to all locations. Life stays unchanged within the Cu Chi Tunnels as farmers nonetheless convey their produce to the floating market and folks nonetheless wash their garments by hand on its banks.
11. Lovely Seashores 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 few 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 brilliant yellows.
Mui Ne might 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 major attraction of large rolling hills of sand surrounded by inexperienced fields wanting as if a little bit of the Sahara has been dropped into South East Asia. We walked to the highest within the scorching warmth and took an exhilarating magic carpet journey down its sandy banks.
Tour operators can take you out for some sandboarding and mountaineering on the huge dunes.
12. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island is nearer to Cambodia than Vietnam, but it surely is part of the Vietnamese territory. After we have been in Vietnam, it was just a little off the crushed path and reserved for backpackers, but it surely has gained in standing due to its beautiful seashores, crystal clear waters, and unbelievable nightlife. There are many 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 attributable to its gorgeous seashores, clear seas, and nice bars.
13. Hoi An
Picture by by photographer Réhahn. See his full photostory of Vietnam right here.
Hoi An has a thousand-year historical past luring guests to its historical buildings alongside the Thu Bon River. The river has been attracting merchants from the South China Sea for hundreds of years. This historical city is a mix of Asian and colonial structure with sidewalk cafés and cobblestone streets.
If you happen to occur to be in Hoi An through the Vietnamese New Yr (Tet Pageant), you’ll witness hundreds of lanterns lining the roads.
It’s actually a photographer’s dream with photograph alternatives of the Japanese Coated Bridge, the Lantern Pageant, and the distinction between Chinese language tube homes and French colonial buildings.
Tailored Garments 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! Selecting a store will be troublesome and we have been standing within the wet road confused when a woman approached us and stated to observe her. Reluctantly, we adopted her via winding streets and alleyways once we lastly got here to her store available in the market.
We proceeded to pick patterns and kinds whereas a military of ladies took our measurements and aided us in selecting supplies and colours from partitions of cloth. We spent method an excessive amount of cash and acquired caught up within the frenzy of shopping for, knocking off a number of days of our funds on 25 kilos of garments that we despatched residence to Canada.
Phrase of warning: Take your time, and don’t get talked into something. Know what you wish to be made and ask for it to be double-stitched. We have been very proud of our purchases and are glad we had garments made in Vietnam.
14. Mud Tub in Nha Trang
The following seashore cease took us to Nha Trang. It’s a far busier seashore city with high-rise buildings, large resorts, nightclubs, and nice 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 Sizzling Springs the place we took a dip within the mud baths to indulge in its cool medicinal mud. There’s a therapeutic mineral waterfall, hydrotherapy, and a swimming pool. All of my travel-weary bones and muscle tissue are handled to a calming day of pampering and nurturing, getting ready me for the times to come back. 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 attraction set in opposition to a backdrop of gorgeous seashores and rolling mountains. What’s to not love? Whether or not you’re into browsing the waves at My Khe Seashore, exploring the Marble Mountains, or simply having fun with the laid-back beachside ambiance, 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 night time 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 road meals stalls and upscale eating places serving up a few of the greatest flavors in Vietnam. Plus, Da Nang’s central location makes it the proper base for day journeys to Hoi An or the imperial metropolis of Hue.
16. Golden Bridge
Situated an hour and a half from town, the Golden Bridge is considered one of Vietnam’s latest and most jaw-dropping sights within the Da Nang area. Architect Vu Viet Hong created it to “invoke the feeling of strolling alongside a thread stretching via the palms of God.”
This attraction is a part of the Solar World Ba Na Hills Amusement Park. It was created strictly to lure vacationers to the realm, and it labored! It wasn’t but created once we have been in Vietnam, however we needed to embrace it as a result of it isn’t to be missed! Standing 1,000 meters (3,280 ft) above sea degree, it extends over the sting of a cliff. The Ba Na Hills was once a hill station for French colonialists
17. Imperial Metropolis of Hue
Hue is positioned in Central Vietnam and is a treasure trove of historical past and tradition, making it a must-visit for anybody touring Vietnam. This historical metropolis, as soon as the imperial capital, is residence to the gorgeous Hue Imperial Metropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s like stepping again in time.
Strolling via the sprawling complicated of temples, pavilions, and museums, you’ll get an actual sense of Vietnam’s royal previous. Right here, you’ll discover the tombs of the Historic emperors. The Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s Vietnam’s reply to China’s Forbidden Metropolis. The walled fortress was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945.
However there’s extra to Hue than simply its historic websites. The town can also be well-known for its distinctive Vietnamese delicacies, providing dishes you gained’t discover wherever else within the nation – assume wealthy, flavorful broths and delicately crafted bites.
Plus, the serene Fragrance River provides a picturesque attraction to town, excellent for a leisurely boat journey or night stroll alongside its banks. Whether or not you’re a historical past buff, a foodie, or simply seeking 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 which you can tour many battle 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 have been a lot greater than the Cu Chi Tunnels. The Vinh Moc Tunnels have been a strategic level for the Vietnamese to cover from American bombers.
19. Caves of Phong Nha
You probably have time to plan and a few deep pockets, the caves of Phong Nha are a should. Hold Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, and there’s a lengthy ready listing to see it! Situated in Phong Nha-Ke Bang Nationwide Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Website will be visited on a day journey or an expedition of as much as 5 days.
Found in 2009 within the Quang Binh province, this huge cave boasts sections as much as 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, often spanning 4 to five days, and includes mountaineering, tenting, river crossings, and navigating the rugged terrain of the nationwide park.
There are different caves in Phong Naha moreover Son Doong so in the event you don’t have the cash or time to spare, you too can take a look at Hold En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Hold Tien Cave, Hold Va Cave, and Nuoc Nut Cave.
All excursions are carried out by licensed tour operators with skilled guides to make sure security and minimal environmental influence. The excursions typically 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 excellent for vacationers wanting to absorb some distinctive Vietnamese surroundings. Image this: you’re gently rowing down a peaceful, winding river flanked by lush, inexperienced rice fields and towering limestone cliffs. It’s like stepping right into a postcard!
Situated within 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 photographs of native life, with farmers working within the fields and fishers casting their nets. And don’t overlook concerning the unbelievable limestone caves you’ll cross via – it’s like nature’s personal cathedral.
Whether or not 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 fantastic thing about Vietnam in a method that’s each enjoyable and unforgettable. So, once you’re planning your Vietnam journey, be sure that so as to add the Ngo Dong River to your itinerary – it’s a spotlight that’s to not be missed!
21. the Central Highlands
The Central Highlands’ cool local weather, particularly in cities like Da Lat, recognized for its French colonial structure, flower gardens, and pine-covered hills, gives a refreshing retreat from Vietnam’s tropical warmth. Da Lat is especially well-known for its journey sports activities like canyoning, mountain biking, and mountaineering.
The Central Highlands of Vietnam a area of serene magnificence recognized 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.
Right here there are alternatives for trekking and exploring the quite a few nationwide parks like Yok Don and Bidoup Nui Ba.
The area can also be a haven for espresso lovers, because it’s the guts of Vietnam’s coffee-growing trade. You may go to plantations in Buon Ma Thuot, the espresso capital of Vietnam, and luxuriate in freshly brewed native varieties.
Cultural experiences abound within the Central Highlands. Guests can immerse themselves within 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 each day lifetime of the highlanders.
22. Bask in Vietnamese Delicacies
Do you know that Vietnamese tradition is without doubt one of the oldest in Southeast Asia? This spectacular feat has given the Vietnamese individuals loads of time to grasp their artwork of cooking. At this time, the greatest Vietnamese delicacies is in eating places around the globe.
One factor you’ll discover that you’ll eat always is Pho, their rice noodle soup that’s past scrumptious. However there are many dishes to attempt with influences from its French Colonial occasions and historical traditions. From Vietnamese egg espresso to Banh mi, a French stuffed baguette and staple rice noodles, the delicacies of Vietnam is as numerous as its areas. Native meals modifications as you journey from northern Vietnam to the south, and it’s straightforward to dig into conventional delicacies at road stalls and small cafes.
And these are one of the best issues to do in Vietnam. Have you ever been? What do you recommend for the highest Vietnam sights?