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 could possibly 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 affords.
Prime 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 below 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 implausible purchasing, mountain adventures, and chill-out seaside life, Vietnam has one thing to supply for everybody.
The listing of issues to do in Vietnam is limitless, and you could possibly go to Vietnam many times. However this information will enable you plan the must-see points of interest and high locations to go to in Vietnam.
1. Go to Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a surprise of nature within the South China Sea, the place hundreds of islands jut out of the turquoise water, making a unending horizon of mountains.
Taking a ship tour of Vietnam is like coming into a legendary world of emerald waters and towering karst formations dot the horizon. This UNESCO World Heritage Web site, recognized for its breathtaking pure magnificence, is a high spotlight for any Vietnam itinerary. You’ll be able to book your 2-day cruise here.
You’ll be able to 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 personal bunk and had 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 Long Bay – How to Choose 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 putting surroundings with its cool jungles, superior limestone cliffs, and dreamy seashores.
Cruises usually embody 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 biggest 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 superb trek, the paths by way of Cat Ba Nationwide Park are a must-try – you by no means know what wildlife you would possibly spot! And hey, if chilling on the seaside is extra your factor, Cat Ba’s received you lined. 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 a substitute for 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 affords a extra laid-back, genuine expertise. Learn extra: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay – How to Choose Your Cruise?
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’ll be able to 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 simple 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 loosen up and soak in a few of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Check out prices and availability here.
4. Sapa
A journey by way of the jaw-dropping mountain surroundings of Sapa took our breath away in additional methods than one! Trekking by way of the excessive rice terraces close to a mountain city close to the Chinese language border looks like you’re strolling by way of a postcard.
We stayed with the hill tribes, visiting ethnic minority villages of the Hmong, Pink Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho Peoples. We trekked for 3 days by way of the huge rice terraces of this rugged land. The wonder is overwhelming as each nook I flip leaves me extra amazed.
Big terraces full of water glistened within the solar for so far as we may 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 outdated methods right here. They harness water from the mountain to make use of as irrigation, they hand weave their very own materials, and so they develop their very own rice. They’re a individuals really at one with the land. Book this highly rated two day trek to a Homestay.
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, 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 fantastic thing about the rice paddies, with native farmers tending to their fields and the majestic hills offering a surprising backdrop. Every season brings a unique 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 neglect to deliver 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 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 decide on your Vietnam itinerary.
6. Hanoi
Hanoi is hectic and overwhelming; even crossing the road might be an journey. We sat on a second-floor terrace watching individuals take their lives of their fingers as they crossed the highway a busy intersection like a recreation of Frogger. It was lots of hours of amusement.
In Hanoi, you additionally see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum honoring Ho Chi Minh, 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 have to pattern Vietnamese meals on a meals tour of Hanoi. This extremely rated Street Food Tour takes you on a stroll by way of the outdated quarter of Hanoi with an area information. Pattern road meals and native favorites. Free cancellation as much as 24 hours prematurely.
We explored Hanoi’s sights, consuming French baguettes and sipping lattes on Hoan Klem Lake. This can be a great spot to flee the hectic tempo of the town. Hanoi has a wealthy French colonial previous; to see it, you have to discover Hanoi’s outdated quarter.
An important possibility is to mix a Street food and Water Puppet Show Combo – Pattern scrumptious Vietnamese, study Hanoi’s distinctive meals tradition, benefit from the night time view of Hoan Kiem Lake and end off with the water puppet present. Straightforward cancellation on excursions with 24 hours’ discover. Learn Extra: The 29 Best Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam
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 plenty of locations providing low cost beer and cocktails.
Trishaw drivers gained’t take no for a solution as they comply with you down the road trying to make their fare. The place purchasing is the principle precedence and dodging touts is a full-time job.
Town has French colonial buildings blended between neon lights and skyscrapers. The most well-liked vacationer points of interest are most likely the Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Binh and Tay Market. See extra issues to do in Ho Chi Min City here.
Seek for Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
8. Conflict Remnants Museum
Nobody can neglect the Vietnam Conflict, and there are lots of tributes and locations to go to in Vietnam that pay respect to the nation’s struggle historical past. In Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, The Conflict Remnants Museum is an emotional have a look at the results of struggle. A stand-out show was one which honored photographers and correspondents who misplaced their lives protecting the struggle.
Different points of interest to see in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis are the Reunification Palace, which is the location the place the Vietnam Conflict 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 inns, nightclubs, and the bustling Mekong River.
Paying tribute to its French colonial previous, the town can also be residence to a cathedral named after Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Try 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 an incredible day journey from Ho Chi Minh the place you possibly can expertise what the Viet Cong troopers and fighters went by way of dwelling life underground through the struggle. You’ll be able to ebook this extremely rated tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City.
Agent Orange, napalm, and fixed bombing worn out the jungle through the Vietnam Conflict, however it’s now lush and inexperienced and is likely one of the hottest vacationer points of interest in Vietnam. Watch our Video contained in the Cu Chi Tunnels
Our information confirmed us how the Vietnamese would escape within the jungle and camouflage the entrances with termite hills. We discovered that they fought in sandals made out of car tires to keep away from jungle rot. And we discovered how they wore checkered scarves to announce that they had been combating 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 situations had been. Learn extra at The Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam
10. Cruise the Mekong Delta
The Mekong River is a large river spanning 4500km of numerous 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. Among the finest issues to do in Vietnam is to ebook a tour of the Mekong Delta to see its floating markets,
Alongside the best way, you’ll find 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 discovered the best way to make coconut sweet and rice paper, being provided a style to entice us into shopping for a memento. It’s all a little bit 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.
Guide a full-day Mekong Delta Tour, together with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Free cancelation for a full refund inside 24 hours of exercise.
Ho Chi Min Metropolis Tour firms provide nice package deal offers combating for vacationer {dollars} to all locations. Life stays unchanged within the Cu Chi Tunnels as farmers nonetheless deliver their produce to the floating market and folks nonetheless wash their garments by hand on its banks.
11. Stunning Seashores of Mui Ne
Our first seaside 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 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 most important attraction of big 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 exciting 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, nevertheless it is part of the Vietnamese territory. Once we had been in Vietnam, it was a little bit off the crushed path and reserved for backpackers, nevertheless it has gained in standing because of its beautiful seashores, crystal clear waters, and implausible 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 beautiful seashores, clear seas, and nice bars.
13. Hoi An
Picture by by photographer Réhahn. See his full photostory of Vietnam 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 12 months (Tet Pageant), you’ll witness hundreds of lanterns lining the roads.
It’s really a photographer’s dream with picture 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 might be troublesome and we had been standing within the wet road confused when a woman approached us and stated to comply with her. Reluctantly, we adopted her by way of winding streets and alleyways once we lastly got here to her store available in the market.
We proceeded to pick patterns and types whereas a military of ladies took our measurements and aided us in selecting supplies and colours from partitions of material. We spent method an excessive amount of cash and received 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 had been very pleased with our purchases and are glad we had garments made in Vietnam.
14. Mud Bathtub in Nha Trang
The following seaside cease took us to Nha Trang. It’s a far busier seaside city with high-rise buildings, big resorts, nightclubs, and effective eating. This lengthy stretch of seaside 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 Scorching 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 groups are handled to a soothing day of pampering and nurturing, getting ready me for the times to come back. The mud baths are an inexpensive 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 appeal set in opposition to a backdrop of beautiful 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 environment, Da Nang has one thing for everybody. And let’s not neglect the town’s iconic Dragon Bridge – it breathes fireplace 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 fireplace 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 finest 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
Positioned an hour and a half from the town, the Golden Bridge is one among Vietnam’s latest and most jaw-dropping points of interest within the Da Nang area. Architect Vu Viet Hong created it to “invoke the feeling of strolling alongside a thread stretching by way of the fingers 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 world, and it labored! It wasn’t but created once we had been in Vietnam, however we needed to embody it as a result of it isn’t to be missed! Standing 1,000 meters (3,280 ft) above sea stage, it extends over the sting of a cliff. The Ba Na Hills was 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 beautiful Hue Imperial Metropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site that’s like stepping again in time.
Strolling by way of the sprawling advanced 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 Web site 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. Town can also be well-known for its distinctive Vietnamese delicacies, providing dishes you gained’t discover anyplace else within the nation – assume wealthy, flavorful broths and delicately crafted bites.
Plus, the serene Fragrance River provides a picturesque appeal to the 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 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 which you could tour many struggle relics. Hue was additionally the place we booked a full-day tour to discover the DMZ zone.
In case you are 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 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! Positioned in Phong Nha-Ke Bang Nationwide Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Web site might 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 apart from Son Doong so in case you don’t have the cash or time to spare, you can even try Hold En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Hold Tien Cave, Hold Va Cave, and Nuoc Nut Cave.
All excursions are performed by licensed tour operators with skilled guides to make sure security and minimal environmental affect. The excursions usually contain native porters and guides, offering financial advantages to the neighborhood 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 take in 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!
Positioned 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 pictures of native life, with farmers working within the fields and fishers casting their nets. And don’t neglect concerning the unbelievable limestone caves you’ll cross by way of – 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 permits you to join with the tranquil fantastic thing about Vietnam in a method that’s each enjoyable and unforgettable. So, if you’re planning your Vietnam journey, be certain 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, affords 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 supplies 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’ll be able to 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 day by day lifetime of the highlanders.
22. Take pleasure in Vietnamese Delicacies
Do you know 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. At this time, the best Vietnamese cuisine is in eating places around the globe.
One factor you’ll discover that you’ll eat continually 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 simple to dig into conventional delicacies at road stalls and small cafes.
And these are the perfect issues to do in Vietnam. Have you ever been? What do you counsel for the highest Vietnam points of interest?
