Visiting Vietnam is in contrast to many different locations, mixing a captivating mix of journey, historical past, and scenic magnificence that’s unmatched. If you would like a captivating 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 would simply spend two months exploring its countryside. We spent 30 days in Vietnam, and even that was barely sufficient time to see every thing this numerous nation gives.
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 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 wonderful websites to see. From stunning pure wonders to incredible purchasing, mountain adventures, and chill-out seaside life, Vietnam has one thing to supply for everybody.
The record of issues to do in Vietnam is limitless, and you would go to Vietnam repeatedly. However this information will show you how to plan the must-see sights 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 1000’s of islands jut out of the turquoise water, making a unending 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 high 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 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 have been handled to a feast.
Sleeping within the bay surrounded by these sleeping giants whereas wanting into the clear evening sky is a novel expertise Learn: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Lengthy Bay – How one can Select Your Vietnam Cruise?
2. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is a slice of paradise that’s good for anybody wanting so as to add a little bit of journey and rest 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 placing 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 stunning stalactites.
Should you’re into snorkeling, the clear waters across the island are a deal with. For individuals who love an excellent 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 seaside is extra your factor, Cat Ba’s received you coated. Plus, it’s the right 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 overwhelmed path of its well-known neighbor, Ha Lengthy Bay, Bai Tu Lengthy gives a extra laid-back, genuine expertise.
It’s the right place to flee the crowds whereas cruising on a conventional 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 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. 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 appears like you might be strolling via 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 via the huge rice terraces of this rugged land. The sweetness is overwhelming as each nook I flip leaves me extra amazed.
Large terraces crammed with 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, they usually develop their very own rice. They’re a folks 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. 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 trip alongside the Ngo Dong River.
As you glide via 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 surprising backdrop. Every season brings a distinct 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 carry 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 choose in 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 folks take their lives of their arms as they crossed the highway a busy intersection like a recreation of Frogger. , it was positively 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 spot to flee the hectic tempo of the town. Hanoi has a wealthy French colonial previous, and to see it, you could discover Hanoi’s outdated quarter.
It is usually in Hanoi that you just see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum honoring Ho Chi Minh who was the founder of contemporary 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 could pattern Vietnamese meals on a meals tour of Hanoi. Learn Extra: The 29 Finest Issues to do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Advised Meals Excursions Hanoi
Road Meals Tour – Take a stroll via the outdated quarter of Hanoi with an area information. Pattern avenue meals and native favorites. Free cancellation as much as 24 hours upfront. Road meals and Water Puppet Present Combo – Pattern 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. 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 folks, Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, is the center of Vietnamese nightlife, with Karaoke bars, nightclubs, and plenty of locations providing low cost beer and cocktails.
Trishaw drivers received’t take no for a solution as they comply with you down the road trying to make their fare. The place purchasing is the primary precedence and dodging touts is a full-time job.
Town has French colonial buildings blended between neon lights and skyscrapers. The preferred vacationer sights are in all probability the Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Binh and Tay Market.
8. Struggle Remnants Museum
Nobody can neglect the Vietnam Struggle, and there are lots of tributes and locations to go to in Vietnam that pay respect to the nation’s conflict historical past. In Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, The Struggle Remnants Museum is an emotional have a look at the consequences of conflict. A stand-out show was one which honored photographers and correspondents who misplaced their lives masking the conflict.
Different sights to see in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis are the Reunification Palace, which is the location the place the Vietnam Struggle 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 dwelling 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 residing life underground through the conflict.
Agent Orange, napalm, and fixed bombing worn out the jungle through the Vietnam Struggle, 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 within the jungle and camouflage the entrances with termite hills. We realized that they fought in sandals comprised of vehicle 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 authentic 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 unimaginable views, beginning in China and flowing via Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam earlier than ending on the Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. Top-of-the-line 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 will see that floating markets promoting native produce and every thing from fruit and greens to conical hats and faux clothes, in contrast to the markets in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
At small factories, we realized the right way to make coconut sweet and rice paper, being supplied a style to entice us into shopping for a memento. It’s all a bit contrived at instances as they fight very arduous to make you buy one thing, however the surroundings is unimaginable, and watching native life unfold is fascinating.
Ebook 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 firms supply nice bundle offers preventing for vacationer {dollars} to all locations. Life stays unchanged within 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. Lovely 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 trip 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 stunning seashores, however the spotlight of the go to was going to the sand dunes. A brief jeep trip takes you out to the city’s essential 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 trip down its sandy banks.
Tour operators can take you out for some sandboarding and mountaineering on the large dunes.
12. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island is nearer to Cambodia than Vietnam, however it is part of the Vietnamese territory. Once we have been in Vietnam, it was a bit off the overwhelmed path and reserved for backpackers, however it has gained in standing due to its beautiful seashores, crystal clear waters, and incredible 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 on account of its beautiful 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 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.
Should you occur to be in Hoi An through the Vietnamese New 12 months (Tet Competition), you’ll witness 1000’s of lanterns lining the roads.
It’s really a photographer’s dream with picture alternatives of the Japanese Lined Bridge, the Lantern Competition, 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 have been standing within the wet avenue confused when a woman approached us and stated to comply with her. Reluctantly, we adopted her via winding streets and alleyways after we lastly got here to her store available in the market.
We proceeded to pick 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 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 dwelling to Canada.
Phrase 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 have been very pleased with our purchases and are glad we had garments made in Vietnam.
14. Mud Tub in Nha Trang
The subsequent seaside cease took us to Nha Trang. It’s a far busier seaside city with high-rise buildings, large resorts, nightclubs, and positive 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 Sizzling Springs the place we took a dip within the mud baths to take pleasure in its cool medicinal mud. There’s a therapeutic mineral waterfall, hydrotherapy, and a swimming pool. All of my travel-weary bones and muscular tissues are handled to a calming day of pampering and nurturing, making 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 contemporary vibes and conventional allure 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 ambiance, Da Nang has one thing for everybody. And let’s not neglect the 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 few 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
Situated an hour and a half from the town, the Golden Bridge is one among 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 arms 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 after we have 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 toes) 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 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 dwelling to the beautiful Hue Imperial Metropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s like stepping again in time.
Strolling via 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 Historical 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. Town can also be well-known for its distinctive Vietnamese delicacies, providing dishes you received’t discover wherever else within the nation – assume wealthy, flavorful broths and delicately crafted bites.
Plus, the serene Fragrance River provides a picturesque allure to the town, good for a leisurely boat trip 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 that you could tour many conflict 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 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
When you have time to plan and a few deep pockets, the caves of Phong Nha are a should. Grasp Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, and there’s a lengthy ready record to see it! Situated in Phong Nha-Ke Bang Nationwide Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Website 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 huge, 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 should you don’t have the cash or time to spare, you may also take a look at Grasp En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Grasp Tien Cave, Grasp Va Cave, and Nuoc Nut Cave.
All excursions are performed by licensed tour operators with skilled guides to make sure 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 wanting to absorb some distinctive Vietnamese surroundings. Image 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!
Situated within the scenic Tam Coc area, a trip 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 unimaginable limestone caves you’ll go 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 trip; 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, while 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, 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 center of Vietnam’s coffee-growing business. 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 every 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 folks loads of time to grasp their artwork of cooking. At this time, the perfect 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. However there are many dishes to strive with influences from its French Colonial instances and historic 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 avenue 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 sights?