Visiting Vietnam is in contrast to many different locations, mixing an enchanting mix of journey, historical past, and scenic magnificence that’s unmatched. If you’d like an enchanting 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 can 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 presents.
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 below are our favourite issues to do in Vietnam.
We labored our manner from Southern Vietnam to the North, beginning from the border of Cambodia. Vietnam has some wonderful websites to see. From lovely 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 can go to Vietnam time and again. However this information will aid you plan the must-see sights and prime 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 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, identified for its breathtaking pure magnificence, is a prime spotlight for any Vietnam itinerary. You’ll be able to ebook your 2-day cruise right here.
You’ll be able to kayak by means of 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 had been handled to a feast.
Sleeping within the bay surrounded by these sleeping giants whereas trying into the clear evening sky is a singular expertise Learn: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Lengthy Bay – How you can Select Your Vietnam Cruise?
2. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is a slice of paradise that’s excellent for anybody trying 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 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 biggest cave on the island, and Hoa Cuong Cave is thought for its lovely stalactites.
In the event you’re into snorkeling, the clear waters across the island are a deal with. For many who love an excellent trek, the paths by means of 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 bought 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 presents a extra laid-back, genuine expertise.
It’s the right 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 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 calm down and soak in a few of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Take a look at costs and availability right here.
4. Sapa
A journey by means of the jaw-dropping mountain surroundings of Sapa took our breath away in additional methods than one! Trekking by means of the excessive rice terraces close to a mountain city close to the Chinese language border seems like you might be strolling by means of 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 by means of the huge rice terraces of this rugged land. The wonder is overwhelming as each nook I flip leaves me extra amazed.
Large terraces full of 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 reside 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 folks 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. Also known as 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 means 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 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 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 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 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 folks take their lives of their palms as they crossed the highway a busy intersection like a recreation of Frogger. , it was positively numerous 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 town. Hanoi has a wealthy French colonial previous, and to see it, it is advisable discover Hanoi’s outdated quarter.
Additionally it is in Hanoi that you simply 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 need to pattern Vietnamese meals on a meals tour of Hanoi. Learn Extra: The 29 Greatest Issues to do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Steered Meals Excursions Hanoi
- Avenue Meals Tour – Take a stroll by means of the outdated quarter of Hanoi with a neighborhood information. Pattern avenue meals and native favorites. Free cancellation as much as 24 hours upfront.
- Avenue 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. Straightforward 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 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 trying to make their fare. The place purchasing is the principle precedence and dodging touts is a full-time job.
The town has French colonial buildings combined between neon lights and skyscrapers. The preferred vacationer sights are most likely the Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Binh and Tay Market.
8. Conflict Remnants Museum
Nobody can overlook the Vietnam Conflict, and there are lots of tributes and locations to go to in Vietnam that pay respect to the nation’s battle historical past. In Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, The Conflict Remnants Museum is an emotional have a look at the results 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 Conflict 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 motels, nightclubs, and the bustling Mekong River.
Paying tribute to its French colonial previous, town can also be house 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 a tremendous day journey from Ho Chi Minh the place you’ll be able to expertise what the Viet Cong troopers and fighters went by means of dwelling life underground through the battle.
Agent Orange, napalm, and fixed bombing worn out the jungle through the Vietnam Conflict, 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 comprised of vehicle tires to keep away from jungle rot. And we realized 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 situations had 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 by means of 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 ebook 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 pretend clothes, in contrast to the markets in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
At small factories, we realized find out how to make coconut sweet and rice paper, being provided a style to entice us into shopping for a memento. It’s all a bit of contrived at instances as they struggle very exhausting to make you buy one thing, however the surroundings is unimaginable, 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 firms provide nice bundle offers preventing 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 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 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 vivid 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 principal attraction of big 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 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 climbing 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 had been in Vietnam, it was a bit of off the overwhelmed path and reserved for backpackers, but it surely 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 resulting from 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 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.
In the event you 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 actually a photographer’s dream with picture alternatives of the Japanese Lined 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 tough and we had been standing within the wet avenue confused when a girl approached us and stated to observe her. Reluctantly, we adopted her by means of winding streets and alleyways after we lastly got here to her store out there.
We proceeded to pick patterns and kinds whereas a military of girls took our measurements and aided us in selecting supplies and colours from partitions of cloth. We spent manner an excessive amount of cash and bought caught up within the frenzy of shopping for, knocking off a number of days of our price range on 25 kilos of garments that we despatched house 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 had been very pleased with our purchases and are glad we had garments made in Vietnam.
14. Mud Bathtub in Nha Trang
The subsequent seaside cease took us to Nha Trang. It’s a far busier seaside city with high-rise buildings, big resorts, nightclubs, and superb eating. This lengthy stretch of seaside is well-developed and touts are in all places 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 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 soothing day of pampering and nurturing, getting ready me for the times to return. 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 appeal 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 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 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 town, the Golden Bridge is one in all 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 by means of 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 world, and it labored! It wasn’t but created after we had been in Vietnam, however we needed to embrace it as a result of it’s not 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 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 historic metropolis, as soon as the imperial capital, is house to the gorgeous Hue Imperial Metropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s like stepping again in time.
Strolling by means of 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 – suppose wealthy, flavorful broths and delicately crafted bites.
Plus, the serene Fragrance River provides a picturesque appeal 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 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 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 had been a lot larger 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
When you’ve got time to plan and a few deep pockets, the caves of Phong Nha are a should. Dangle 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 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 five days, and includes climbing, tenting, river crossings, and navigating the rugged terrain of the nationwide park.
There are different caves in Phong Naha moreover Son Doong so if you happen to don’t have the cash or time to spare, you can even take a look at Dangle En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Dangle Tien Cave, Dangle 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 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 excellent for vacationers trying to take in 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 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 within the fields and fishers casting their nets. And don’t overlook concerning the unimaginable limestone caves you’ll move by means 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 allows you to join with the tranquil fantastic thing about Vietnam in a manner that’s each stress-free and unforgettable. So, whenever you’re planning your Vietnam journey, ensure 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, identified for its French colonial structure, flower gardens, and pine-covered hills, presents a refreshing retreat from Vietnam’s tropical warmth. Da Lat is especially well-known for its journey sports activities like canyoning, mountain biking, and 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 offers 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 revel 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. Take pleasure 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 folks loads of time to grasp their artwork of cooking. As we speak, the finest Vietnamese delicacies is in eating places around the globe.
One factor you’ll discover that you’ll eat consistently is Pho, their rice noodle soup that’s past scrumptious. However there are many dishes to attempt 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 adjustments 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 very best issues to do in Vietnam. Have you ever been? What do you counsel for the highest Vietnam sights?