22 Best Things to Do in Vietnam In 2024

Visiting Vietnam is not like many different locations, mixing an interesting mix of journey, historical past, and scenic magnificence that’s unmatched. If you’d like 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 the whole lot this numerous nation affords. 

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 approach from Southern Vietnam to the North, beginning from the border of Cambodia. Vietnam has some superb websites to see. From lovely pure wonders to improbable procuring, mountain adventures, and chill-out seashore life, Vietnam has one thing to supply for everybody.

The checklist of issues to do in Vietnam is countless, and you could possibly go to Vietnam many times. However this information will enable you 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 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 Website, recognized for its breathtaking pure magnificence, is a high spotlight for any Vietnam itinerary. You possibly can book your 2-day cruise here.

You possibly can kayak by way of hidden lagoons, discover magnificent caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung, and even discover a secluded cove for a swim. Halong Bay is without doubt 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 trying 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 trying 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 typically embody a go to to one of many caves on Cat Ba Island throughout our Halong Bay cruise. There are 4 attention-grabbing caves on the island. Hospital Cave served as a hospital for wounded troopers and a bomb shelter for the Vietnamese. Trung Trang Cave is the most important cave on the island, and Hoa Cuong Cave is understood for its lovely stalactites.

For those who’re into snorkeling, the clear waters across the island are a deal with. For individuals who love a very good trek, the paths by way 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 seashore is extra your factor, Cat Ba’s received you lined. Plus, it’s the right spot to jump over to the attractive 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 affords 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 possibly can discover hidden caves, go to fishing villages, and even discover secret seashores to have all to your self.

The vibe right here is all about taking it straightforward and savoring the second. Whether 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 final word place to chill out 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, Purple Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho Peoples. We trekked for 3 days by way of 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 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, 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. 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 experience alongside the Ngo Dong River.

As you glide by way of the water, you’ll be captivated by the tranquil great thing about the rice paddies, with native farmers tending to their fields and the majestic hills offering a shocking backdrop. 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 overlook to deliver your digicam, 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 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 a whole lot 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, you should discover Hanoi’s previous quarter.

Additionally it is 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 will need to pattern Vietnamese meals on a meals tour of Hanoi. Learn Extra: The 29 Best Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Urged Meals Excursions Hanoi

• Street Food Tour – Take a stroll by way of the previous quarter of Hanoi with an area information. Pattern road meals and native favorites. Free cancellation as much as 24 hours upfront.
• 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. 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 lots 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 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 combined 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. Warfare Remnants Museum

Nobody can overlook the Vietnam Warfare, and there are various tributes and locations to go to in Vietnam that pay respect to the nation’s conflict historical past. In Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, The Warfare Remnants Museum is an emotional take a look at the results 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 positioning the place the Vietnam Warfare 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 accommodations, 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 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’ll be able to expertise what the Viet Cong troopers and fighters went by way of dwelling life underground through the conflict.

Agent Orange, napalm, and fixed bombing worn out the jungle through the Vietnam Warfare, 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 discovered that they fought in sandals created from vehicle tires to keep away from jungle rot. And we discovered how they wore checkered scarves to announce that they had been 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 circumstances 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 way of Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam earlier than ending on the Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. The most effective issues to do in Vietnam is to e book a tour of the Mekong Delta to see its floating markets,

Alongside the best way, one can find floating markets promoting native produce and the whole lot from fruit and greens to conical hats and pretend clothes, not like the markets in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.

At small factories, we discovered make coconut sweet and rice paper, being provided a style to entice us into shopping for a memento. It’s all somewhat contrived at occasions as they struggle very laborious 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 corporations supply nice bundle 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 seashore cease in Vietnam was Mui Ne, and it was our favourite. A spectacular beachfront the place kite surfers experience the waves in its windy bay, and the sunsets listed here 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 might have lovely seashores, however the spotlight of the go to was going to the sand dunes. A brief jeep experience takes you out to the city’s most important 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 exhilarating magic carpet experience 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, nevertheless it is part of the Vietnamese territory. After we had been in Vietnam, it was somewhat off the crushed path and reserved for backpackers, nevertheless it has gained in standing due to its attractive seashores, crystal clear waters, and improbable 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 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.

For those who occur to be in Hoi An through the Vietnamese New 12 months (Tet Competition), 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 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 had been standing within the wet road confused when a girl approached us and mentioned to comply with her. Reluctantly, we adopted her by way of winding streets and alleyways once we lastly got here to her store out there.

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 cloth. 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 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 following seashore cease took us to Nha Trang. It’s a far busier seashore city with high-rise buildings, big resorts, nightclubs, and advantageous eating.  This lengthy stretch of seashore 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 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 soothing 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 contemporary vibes and conventional attraction 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 Seaside, 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 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 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

Positioned 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 way 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 realm, 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 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 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 house to the beautiful Hue Imperial Metropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Website 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 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 anyplace 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 experience 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 that you may 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, this can be 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 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 checklist to see it! Positioned 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, often 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 may as well take a look at Grasp En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Grasp Tien Cave, Grasp 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 impression. 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 trying 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!

Positioned within the scenic Tam Coc area, a experience 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 unimaginable limestone caves you’ll go 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 experience; it’s an expertise that permits you to join with the tranquil great thing about Vietnam in a approach that’s each enjoyable and unforgettable. So, once you’re planning your Vietnam journey, be sure 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 climbing.

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 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 center of Vietnam’s coffee-growing trade. You possibly can 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 day by 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 folks loads of time to grasp their artwork of cooking. Right this moment, 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 strive 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 adjustments 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 the very best issues to do in Vietnam. Have you ever been? What do you recommend for the highest Vietnam sights?