places to visit in vietnam for bachelors

LOTUS EATERS TRAVEL

Vietnam for a stag/buck’s/bachelor party.

Published by

lotuseaters.travel

Is Vietnam on your radar for an epic stag/buck’s or bachelor party? We think it should be with its party atmosphere across the country, amazing food, great beaches, and to top it all off it’s incredibly affordable. In this article we look in depth whether Vietnam is a good stag/buck’s/bachelor party destination having been here for a month. Don’t forget to see the ratings for Vietnam at the end of this article.

<- READ ALL VIETNAM POSTS

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

No problem. We’ve made a list to choose of all your Vietnam Stag activities.

Or if you need a list of Hotels to choose from for your group.

Vietnam as an alternative stag/buck’s bachelor party to Europe

Vietnam will be make a hugely memorable stag/buck’s bachelor party destination . One of the main differences will be the availability of nightlife that occurs on all days of the week and goes on in to the early hours in all major cities in the country.

One of the most stark differences between Europe and Vietnam is the demographics on the population. Vietnam is a young country and that shows in the people in the cities. While it’s important not to stereotype the Vietnamese people they are some of the most friendly I have ever met, we were regularly offered and invited for drinks by complete strangers. They will show you a great time if you have a stag here.

Vietnam for a stag/buck’s/bachelor party water buffalo

How long does it take to get to Vietnam and how much does it cost?

Flying from Europe will take around 11/12 hours, while flying from the U.S.A. west coast is 16 hours and 20 hours from the east coast. Our return flight from London cost $1300 with Bamboo Airways. It may seem like a lot of money to spend on flights for a stag party however the prices in Vietnam are very cheap so it will balance out.

Most international flights will land at Ho Chi Min city as it is the bigger city and has a larger airport than the capital Hanoi. We booked our flights 3 months before leaving. Want the best price on flights to Vietnam?

Best to check on Skyscanner.

Is a Vietnam expensive?

Absolutely not , it’s very cheap. Hotels and accommodation in Vietnam are very reasonably priced and still high quality, expect to pay only 25% of the price you would in Europe and North American. Similarly drinks and eating out are considerably cheaper than back in the west. More about food and drink later on in this article . Planning on moving around the country, transport is totally affordable, more on moving around Vietnam further down the article. This will be one of the most important questions for yourselves as flying to Vietnam initially is going to be pricey.

Where can I get a sim card?

Need a sim card on landing or about to fly off? Rather than the hassle of finding/getting a physical sim card, an easier method these days is to get an e-sim . Simply select the country or region you are in and get data and calls on your phone. More info can be found here.

Prices are reasonable, usually only $25 for 20GB of data. We now always use this method when travelling as it just saves so much time and bother!

How long should a stag/buck’s bachelor party be in Vietnam?

Realistically you will need a least two weeks to explore Vietnam. This might seem like a long time for a stag party however need to remember that this will be the ultimate adventure so go for it . You could do a week here and stay in one location. Best places to stay for a short amount of time are probably the tropical island of Phu Quoc as it’ll be the most relaxing. However all the places below can be considered great places to visit for a Vietnam for a stag/buck’s bachelor party.

Vietnam’s 5 best cities for a bachelor party: Vietnam nightlife

Vietnam’s northern mountain city. It’s small so you wouldn’t need more than a few days here. Trekking and taking in the lives on the Hmong Tribes among the rice fields are the ultimate activities here. You may not expect it, but Sapa has some great nightlife here with a massive selection of bars and restaurants.

Vietnam for a stag/buck’s/bachelor party? sapa

Some brilliant activities in Sapa:

Busy and buzzy as any city can get. The endless amount of scooters will make you dizzy at first but after a few days you won’t be bothered by them at all. Best to stay in the Old Quarter where there are large numbers of bars and restaurants. The craziest street of them all, aptly named Beer Street is open late into the night and has all any stag party could want. Some of the best Vietnam nightlife can be found on Beer Street.

Vietnam for a stag/buck’s/bachelor party hanoi brewery

These are some of the best activities in Hanoi:

Hue located in central Vietnam (around 13 hour bus journey from Hanoi) is Vietnam’s old capital. Loads of cultural sites to see but the main town itself is compact with loads of rooftop/balcony bars. They do great BBQ as well. Stay here at least two days to see everything. Don’t forget to explore the abandoned water park!

abadoned waterpark hue Vietnam for a stag/buck’s/bachelor party?

Some awesome activities in Hue:

You can read more about Hue here.

Located 3 hours drive away from Hue this amazing city on the Thu Bon river will blow your mind. The entire city is lit with coloured lanterns. The specialty food called Cao Lau here will become a favourite as its delicious. Great nightlife to be found all along the river in the center. Stay here at least three days to soak it all in.

Some activity suggestions for the lantern lit city of Hoi An.

5/ Phu Quoc

Vietnam’s tropical island paradise. This large island to the south of the country borders Cambodia. Amazing beaches and laid back vibes. If you get tired of the bustling cities then head here. Best to catch a flight rather than the buses or trains as it is long way. Think about renting a scooter here in order to reach all the beautiful beaches. The centre of Phu Quoc has some of the best Vietnam nightlife too.

Best activities for Phu Quoc:

6/Ho Chi Minh

This buzzy city perhaps has the most potential for stag/ bachelor parties. Almost open all hours any day of the week, here are some the best things to do while in the fun city.

You can read more about Ho Chi Minh City here and found out about the best nightlife in Vietnam.

Two Days in Hanoi: 48 hours in Vietnam’s capital

TWO DAYS IN HANOI: HOW TO SPEND 48 HOURS IN THE VIBRANT VIETNAMESE CITY. Hanoi, the alluring capital of Vietnam, is a city that seamlessly merges the ancient with the contemporary. Its picturesque ancient quarters, tranquil lakes, and lively markets make Hanoi a…

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Is food and drink in Vietnam delicious?

There are no words to describe how wonderful Vietnamese food and drink is. The range of flavours across the whole country in incredible and we loved it a bit too much! Everyone I know that goes to Vietnam puts on weight. It’s just that good folks! The food alone makes Vietnam a great destination for a stag/buck’s bachelor party destination.

Here were some of our absolute favourites.

1/ Cao Lau Hoi An

2/ Hot Pot Sapa

3/ Papaya Salad Phu Quoc

4/ Shrimp Banana Leaf Salad Hanoi

5/ Meat on Lemongrass Skewers

lemon grass skewers Vietnam for a stag/buck’s/bachelor party

Is Vietnam accommodation cheap?

Best place for hotel deals in Vietnam can be found on Book ing . Accommodation is plentiful in Vietnam and often prices are reduced last minute so hotels can be full. Of all the places I’ve visited this is one of the very few where you don’t necessarily need to book way in advance. The accommodation here is also very reasonable for the quality compared to Europe and is one of the main reasons Vietnam would make a good stag/buck’s destination.

How much does alcohol cost in Vietnam?

Lets talk more about Vietnam nightlife. Alcohol is cheap in Vietnam compared to western countries. Lower place eateries will normally only charge 20,000 dong ($1) for bottle of Vietnamese beer. While a mid range restaurant will up the price to around 35,000 dong ($1.75) . Not exactly breaking the bank.

A draft beer in bars is often served in a frozen glass and well worth doing with the heat. Foreign drinks like Heineken will cost more, however reading the beer labels some Vietnamese beers are made by Heineken so pretty pointless to buy foreign drinks while you are here.

A bottle of Vietnamese finest wine from the Dalat region will cost around $10, however has to be said for wine lovers there is not much choice in Vietnam. If you favour something stronger I suggest the local tipple of rice wine , cost usually around $3 for a 500ml bottle. Often mixed with various fruity flavours it packs a powerful punch, this drink can be found mostly found in northern Vietnam.

Best Bars in Vietnam: Vietnam Nightlife

The bars in Vietnam are epic with cheap drinks and good times. Staff are always friendly and open to a chat in English. Here are the best bars we found in Vietnam.

1/ The Terminal – Hanoi

Located near Hanoi’s famous old railway track this bar is somewhat like a speakeasy. You enter through a small door and enter a room with a large circular bar that looks like railway terminus. On the pricey side compared to more simple bars but the idea for this bar meant we had to put it in.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑻𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 🕰 𝑪𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒍 𝑩𝒂𝒓 (@theterminalhanoi)

2/ Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An

This epic pub in the centre of Hoi An really is the best pub in town with live music every night. Pool and darts available inside, has a nice owner and amazing staff.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An (@shamrockirishpubhoian)

3/ Zen bar Phu Quoc

Chilled out vibes at this cool beach club along Long Beach Phu Quoc. They do a ‘beer buffet’ $10 for all you drink beer, 3 hours long, food is also damn tasty.

4/ Brown Eyes Bar Hue

You will most likely be greeted with shots on entry. Dance floor and good vibes at this late night club. Drinks are reasonable for a club.

5/ Color Bar Sapa

This art inspired bar is one of the best places get a drink and get sociable. Prices are reasonable and the staff are super friendly.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Color Bar Sapa (@colorbarsapavietnam)

Is it cheap and easy to get around Vietnam?

Vietnam is a large country so if you want to explore more than a few places you’ll need to book either buses, trains or flights. It is easy to get around Vietnam using Bookaway, we used it for buses mainly. If you are not a fan of long bus journeys then best to get flights that will get you most places in a few hours, Vietjet was one we used often and we found the best rates on SkyScanner . The aiports in Vietnam were super modern and clean, we were really impressed.

Is Vietnam safe for a stag party?

Vietnam is an incredibly safe country to travel. With the advent of smart phones pricing for transport, hotels and accommodation is now very transparent with apps like Booking.com . Therefore the risk of scams is now much reduced. Restaurants nearly always have the prices listed. If they don’t as we found once in Hanoi it’s best to avoid as a price may be made up when the bill is made. Gentlemen walking around by themselves late at night may be offered ‘services’, best to avoid unless you want to be relieved of all your money.

Can you pay with contactless Visa/Mastercard in Vietnam?

Vietnam has not fully moved to cashless and nearly all bars and restaurants will require cash as payment. This can be annoying as we found ATM’s only gave our a maximum of (4,000,000 dong) around $180 a time. However as Vietnam is cheap this can go a long way. Hotels will take card, however they will add a 3% charge on top on the bill. Don’t feel too bad about paying this as ATM’s to withdraw cash often charge more than this.

Small tip, some the Vietnamese Dong currency has a similar colour but very different values. The 200,000 dong ($10) note has a similar colour to the 10,000 dong note ($0.5). While the highest Vietnamese note, the 500,000 dong ($21) has the same blue colour as the 20,000 dong ($1). Be aware which one you are taking out after a few beers !

Are people in Vietnam friendly and can they speak English?

Vietnamese people are some of the friendliest and good humoured I have met while travelling. Even in heavy traffic of Hanoi people are good natured weaving around pedestrians in their way. Vietnamese people work long hours in often physical jobs, I have complete respect at how they can have such sunny dispositions.

Vietnamese English level is quite good and while it may be difficult to have more in depth discussions outside the big cities there is a strong basic English level, while those in the hospitality industry English level is often strong. There is often signage in English at bus stop and train stations, so getting around is easy. Vietnamese people are very keen to improve there English so feel free to open up conversations, as more than likely they will make time for you.

Which is better for a stag/buck’s bachelors party Vietnam or Thailand?

Thailand is often mentioned as the ‘crazier’ destination for a stag party, in no part thanks to The Hangover film. However I would counter that Vietnam can easily hold its own against Thailand. The beaches may not be quite as stunning in Vietnam , but the food is more diverse and prices are cheaper here . The range of places and activities in Vietnam is also it’s strong point in its favour. With mountains in the north for trekking and tropical beaches in the south. However both countrres are amazing, you wouldn’t be going wrong with either.

Is it safe to drive a scooter/motorbike in Vietnam?

Vietnam cities have scooters everywhere, it’s how people get around here. While the chaos can seem overwhelming people are considerate and slow drivers. They give way to pedestrians and there is no shouting and screaming we witnessed between drivers. There is an endless honking of horns but this is more to warn other drivers they are passing by. So yes absolutely get a scooter to travel around Hanoi, Hoi An or Ho Chi Min, it’s great fun. However travelling by motorbike or scooter on the main roads between cities is perhaps more dangerous with drivers overtaking you at tremendous speed. We would advise to travel by train or bus between Vietnemese cities.

How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Vietnam?

Best way to rent a scooter is ask the hotel you are staying if they can arrange for them to be delivered. You should not have to surrender your passport or pay a deposit like in other countries, we didn’t have to. We paid 150,000 dong ($8) a day. There didn’t seem to be a discount for booking over a longer period. Some scooters are quite old. Don’t be afraid to send back the scooter if it doesn’t seem road worthy.

So lets do the ratings for a stag stag/buck’s bachelor party in Vietnam.

Food and Drink | 9.5
Value for Money | 7*
Activities | 7.5
Nightlife | 8.5

TOTAL | 8.1

Value for money would score much higher had it not been for the flight price.

In conclusion

Vietnam for a stag/buck’s/bachelor party? Yes absolutely we think Vietnam is a great destination for a stag/buck’s bachelor party. Perhaps even one of the most value for money destinations for any stag group.

Would you prefer a tour of Vietnam?

We love independent travel, but sometimes a tour can be the best way to travel the country. It’s also a great way to make friends for life.

G Adventures has some excellent tours for Vietnam.

The first, is a 22 day trip which includes the highlights of Vietnam and Laos.

The second, is a great trip, but a little shorter for anyone who doesn’t have as long to spend travelling but still wants to see everything! The ten day trip travels from the North to the South of Vietnam.

Thinking about other stag destinations? We have some suggestions…

We have written about whether Balkan cities Kotor and Budva in Montenegro are good buck’s destinations.

Bilbao in Spain scored highly for us with its value for money and incredible nightlife.

Or perhaps something more adventurous with a bachelor party in Tel Aviv Israel.

Most of our planning is done using other blogs, but you can’t beat a guide book at the bottom of your case. Find them here on Amazon . to get the travelling started!

Guide to the Night Markets of Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh city is our favourite city in Vietnam. Whilst we were there, we took time to explore Ho Chi Minh’s night markets with their amazing range of goods and delicious foods. In this article we examine the night market locations, products…

Guide to the Night markets of Hanoi Vietnam

Night markets, the heartbeat of Hanoi’s nocturnal charm, beckon locals and travelers alike to on a sensory journey through the city’s culinary and cultural wonders. This is our guide to the night markets on Hanoi Vietnam. What night markets are located in Hanoi?…

How to get to Phu Quoc Island, all you need to know

Phu Quoc Island has 150km of beach. It’s not difficult to see why it’s fast becoming a popular destination for travellers to Vietnam. Lying just west of Cambodia, it can seem daunting to consider how to get to Phu Quoc Island, but it…

Costume for the groom? Find them here on Amazon .

MatGui Easter Party Rabbit Costume Bunny Mascot Costume Adult Size Fancy Dress

USEFUL LINKS FOR FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION AND TRANSPORT

Type your email…

CHECK LATEST FLIGHTS

Activities to consider, follow us on social media.

Please note that some links on our website are partnered with affiliates. Using an affiliate links does not make it more expensive for you to purchase. We receive a small commission whenever you buy something which in turn allows us to keep writing independent travel guides and your support is greatly appreciated.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from lotus eaters travel.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Meet the Team
Work with Us
Czech Republic
Netherlands
Switzerland
Scandinavia
Philippines
South Korea
New Zealand
South Africa
Budget Travel
Work & Travel
The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
Travel Resources
How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » 21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Vietnam (2024 • Insider Guide)

21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Vietnam (2024 • Insider Guide)

A place where street food reigns supreme, temples touch the sky, and lanterns light up streets, Vietnam is a destination made for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and foodies.

Honestly, any short description underplays how magnificent this Southeast Asian country really is. It’s so wonderful, in fact, that it can be daunting planning where to visit and what to prioritize.

Worry not: We’re here to help you craft the PERFECT itinerary by laying out twenty-one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

Whether you’re visiting to hike along the ricefields of Sa Pa, sail between stalagmites in Ha Long Bay, or sip on coconuts on Cat Ba Island, Vietnam sure is an outdoor lovers paradise. Not only for nature fans, it’s also a haven of culture and history, home to some of the world’s most famous temples and archeological ruins.

This country has some seriously interesting stories to tell! A good place to start? – Visiting some of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

Equestrian Statue of Phu Dong Thieu Vuong in the middle of bustling streets, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

1. Con Dao Islands

2. temple of literature, hanoi, 4. cat ba, ha long bay, 5. ta dung lake, 7. the mekong delta, 8. cat tien national park, 9. my son ruins, 10. the ha giang province, 11. phong nha – ke bang national park, 12. ban gioc waterfall, 13. son doong cave, 14. ninh binh, 15. phu quoc island, 16. mui ne sand dunes, 17. ho chi minh city, 18. silver waterfall, lao cai, 19. nha trang, 20. cao dai temple, long hoa, 21. ba be national park, how to see beautiful places in vietnam, final thoughts on beautiful places in vietnam.

Travelling to the Con Dao Islands has many of the classic markers of backpacking Vietnam – peace, tranquility, and unrivaled island beauty.

Part of the Con Dao National Park, these islands include a group of sixteen islands just off the coast of southern Vietnam. Most of the beaches are uninhabited and protected as nature reserves, with their gorgeous tropical foliage, jungle animals, and sea life thriving.

You’re most likely to visit the main island of Con San, which has miles of coastal trails and other outdoor activities to engage in. This is the only island where people live, and it was once home to a French prison for Vietnamese independence fighters.

Head to Con Son Town to visit some of these prison cells, donning infamous tiger cages, for a taste of Vietnam’s colonial history. For some relaxed downtime, this island has some of the best beaches in Vietnam . Seriously, these beaches are super-duper clean, perfect for lounging in the sun and snorkeling.

When you’ve had enough sun vibes, head for the shaded seafood restaurants lining the beach, where you can dine on the day’s freshest catch. Talk about utopia.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

There is no shortage of beautiful temples to explore in Vietnam. In fact, there are so many, it’s an almost impossible to choose the most beautiful. All I can say is that if you’re backpacking around Hanoi (and it’s likely that you are), a visit to the Temple of Literature is an absolute must.

While it’s one of the capital’s top historical attractions, it’s not without good reason. Built over one thousand years ago in an age of sages and scholars, the temple was dedicated to Confucious and was considered Vietnam’s first university. Think of it as the birthplace of Vietnamese education.

Lying across four streets, this really is an impressive feat of architecture to witness – one of the best spots to visit in Hanoi . The temple has five inner courtyards lined with turtle steles, pavilions, and passageways.

An exquisite example of ancient Vietnamese architecture and a traditional dedication to education, the temple was once used to educate Vietnam’s royals, noble families, and elite members of society. You can really feel the energy of this ancient college.

There is something unequivocally beautiful about the Vietnamese traditional way of life. A focus on family, ancestral worship, incense burning, and rich culinary culture is just the tip of the iceberg. If this ancient lifestyle calls your name, be sure to include Sa Pa in your Southeast Asia adventure .

Hidden in a cloud of mist in the mystical Tonkinese Alps, Sa Pa is a small French town that is seen as the gateway into the mountainous region. The rice-terraced countryside is bordered by dramatic peaks, so it is no shock that this is Vietnam’s premier hiking destination.

a woman works with a sewing machine in Sapa, northern Vietnam

It’s the natural beauty of the rolling green terraces that makes this agricultural region one of the top ten places to visit in Vietnam. If you’re taken in by a good adventure, exquisite views, and exciting nature, add Mount Fan Si Pan to your bucket list of adventures.

Located in the Sa Pa region, the mountain is Vietnam’s highest peak. The region is most popular with hikers and trekkers , who can follow short hikes or three-day treks between villages.

I recommend spending some real time in the region, soaking up the culture and exquisite scenery around the Hmong and Dao Hill tribal villages . Sign up for a guided tour around Sa Pa for THE ultimate Vietnamese experience.

Ha Long Bay translates to “the place of descending dragons”. Appropriately named, in my opinion! I mean, if you close your eyes and imagine a dragon’s ideal lair, it would look a lot like Ha Long Bay.

The Cat Ba National Park is an island, part World Biosphere Reserve , and part golden beache . Surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts, Cat Ba has a small harbor town, but there really isn’t much to do here.

Rather, spend your time exploring the wild, rocky island, which is a paradise for hikers and climbers. Oh, and the waters are just as magnificent as the land.

Boat crossing South China sea and rock formations in Cat Ba Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

The entire bay is worth a top spot on this list, with its towering limestone mountains rising seemingly impossibly from the emerald waters below. As popular as the bay might be with tourists, it is absolutely still worth visiting. You can find cozy accommodations , enjoy yummy food, and try lots of activities that really show off the place.

One of the best ways to discover the entire Ha Long Bay is to jump on an overnight junk (a type of boat that is certainly not junk) boat tour. You can then wake up between the karsts and explore the more than 1600 jungle-topped islands.

From the island of Cat Ba, you can rent a kayak and explore the kaleidoscope coral reefs, which are well protected by the park system; no wonder it’s one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

What better way to get to know inland Vietnam than with a trip to Ta Dung Lake? While most flock to the beaches of Cat Ba and Da Nang, Vietnam’s lakes have a quiet allure waiting to be explored.

From above, this might be one of the most unique-looking lakes on the planet. Made up of hundreds of small ponds, rivers, and streams, the entire lake region was created by a dam wall. As a response to rising water levels, the nearby dam overflowed and created a lake around mountains and hills, which today include over forty islands.

A real view of Ta Dung Lake with its lush greenery

During the wet season, there are also different springs and waterfalls to find deep inside the forest. Camping is also popular here, with fully prepared campsites available to rent. Make sure you check all your camping gear for an epic Vietnamese adventure.

Ta Dung is also a national park, which is home to plenty of endemic plants and animals. Naturally, it also attracts a huge population of birds. So, if you’re a bird watcher, you won’t want to miss out on this day trip.

If you squint, the dam looks a bit like Ha Long Bay and has even been called the bay’s equivalent in Vietnam’s central highlands. The best way to explore this unique place in Vietnam is by boat, as you can motor your way between the islands and coves.

With a sky lit by lanterns and colonial French architecture creating some of the most beautiful streets in the world, Hoi An deservedly holds a place as one of the top ten places to visit in Vietnam.

Backpackers in Hoi An unanimously acknowledge that it tops the list of the best cities in Vietnam, for obvious reasons. What was once a French colonial settlement is now known as the “city of lanterns”. The city is small, lining the coastline with an intricate network of waterways and rivers.

The Chinese shops, colorful temples, and charming colonial buildings, combined with Vietnamese tube houses and an iconic Japanese covered bridge, reflect the region’s history. Talk about a melting pot! Amidst all this variety, Hoi An has really comfortable accommodations that are as beautiful as the buildings around them.

The old town quarter is packed with exciting shops where you can get your own bespoke clothing, hand-made to fit. What was once a meeting place for Japanese and Chinese merchants is now packed with international travelers wanting to experience the lantern experience firsthand. And oh boy, is it an experience.

Cycle under the lantern-lit streets, walk across the iconic covered bridge and release a lantern into the water for the full experience. It really is an atmospheric wonderland that can sometimes feel like a movie set.

One of my favorite places in Vietnam, and no doubt one of the most physically astounding, is the Mekong River in the Mekong Delta. It’s a maze of winding waterways that meander through mangrove forests, lush rice fields, and past floating markets.

It’s Southeast Asia’s most famous river and one of the most productive and cultivated regions on the continent. Other than exploring the Mekong by boat, I suggest you visit the most famous floating markets of Chau Doc, Can Tho, and Cai Rang. Join this 2-day tour around the Mekong Delta to soak up all the special vibes and dive into the local culture. Get ready for an awesome time!

Locals navigating Mekong River in the Mekong Delta on their sampans

Let’s be honest; your guides will know what’s up and take you there before you even have to ask. Here, traders, fishmongers, and farmers come to sell and purchase fresh fruit, vegetables, and fish in a colorful exchange of produce.

It’s also a beautiful place to explore on a bike! You can roll through peaceful local villages where residents live in harmony with their giant water buffalo counterparts. Life here is guided by the ebb and flow of this natural river, which is unlike any landmark you could ever dream of visiting.

Spanning across a huge landscape of lowland tropical forest, the Cat Tien National Park is one of the most diverse and beautiful protected regions in Vietnam’s south. Here, you can lay eyes on ancient trees, well-maintained botanical gardens, and endemic and endangered wildlife.

Canoe around the Crocodile Lake, which, yes, is home to some resident crocs. Surrounded by jungle, this lake is a beautiful way to see the park from a different perspective.

A green valley with pink flowers at Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam

If this terrifies you to the core (I get it, trust me), you could walk or ride a bike along the lush trails, while keeping an eye out for the local wildlife. If you’re wondering what to look out for, you could spot anything from pangolins to elephants to mongeese and even some rare primates.

I also recommend trekking to the magical waterfalls dotted around Cat Tien town. You can also visit an ancient archeological site housing Hindu temples from the fourth and ninth centuries. Nothing better than a site that blends natural and cultural beauty!

Here at The Broke Backpacker , we love freedom! And there’s no freedom as sweet (and CHEAP) as camping around the world.

We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…

There really is no place like the My Son Ruins. Located just a short drive from Hoi An, My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that brings the grandeur of ancient Vietnam into the 21st century.

It’s a cluster of Hindu temple ruins that were built between the fourth and fourteenth centuries by the Kings of Champa. These crumbling temples were actually used for religious ceremonies throughout history.

My Son Ruins surrounded by lush greenery.

Walking through the ruins, you’ll pass large elephant structures, lotus-inspired stupas, and sacrificial altars. Exploring the temples by foot is the best way to see everything, and you can make your way around in under three hours.

My Son translates to “beautiful mountain” and is named after the lush jungle-covered mountain that creates the backdrop of the temples.

They survived hundreds of years of wild weather and changing powers but were officially destroyed during the Vietnam War. Luckily, a lot was left undamaged, and you can still admire the ancient structures and imagine what the temple complex might have looked like in its heyday.

When it comes to the top ten places to visit in Vietnam, Ha Giang Province is no doubt the cool kid on the block. The province lies just northeast of Sa Pa, bordering China, and is a relatively unexplored and, therefore, untainted region.

Vietnam’s northernmost province, Ha Giang, is a peaceful area with its unbelievable river canyon landscapes. I’d even go so far as to call this the Grand Canyon of Vietnam , with a narrow, winding river fringed by towering cliffs that ascend into farmland.

Mountains and buildings in Ha Giang Province

Serpentine roads snake through the province, descending and ascending rice-terraced hills, canyons and valleys, and rugged peaks.

Driving along these narrow roads in a car or motorcycle (good vibes, but never considered safe) is an easy way to soak up the natural wonder of the province. Check out our guide on motorbiking in Vietnam to ensure a safe ride.

Quan Ba Valley, where you will find the Quan Ba Pass (also known as Heaven’s Gate, for obvious reasons once you see it), is one of the most beautiful parts of the province. It features exceptional views over the snaking rivers and terraced rice fields. Seriously, once you see this spot, you’ll understand just why it sits on the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network .

Large cave with rock formations located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam.

A rugged landscape of limestone mountains and deep caves in the Annamite Mountain Range, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a beautiful place to soak up Vietnam’s gorgeous countryside.

This park offers an unparalleled caving experience. If you’re an adventurers or a thrill seeker, don’t miss out on the ultimate tour of the Paradise Cave , it’s guaranteed to be the best time of your life!

Cascading across a 300-meter-wide area in Cao Bang, the Ban Gioc Waterfalls are Vietnam’s best waterfalls and one of its most impressive natural sights.

Technically, the waterfalls consist of dozens of separate spouts of water concentrated in one part of the Quay Son River, flowing from China.

Without further ado, I share with you one of my favorite places on this list of beautiful places in Vietnam, the iconic Son Doong Cave.

Believed to be the largest cave in the world (based on volume), it was only found in 1990. Truly an unbelievable sight to behold; you really can’t miss a visit to this cave in the Ke Bang National Park.

traveller with traditional hat walking in front of a temple in ninh binh

Ninh Binh is a landscape famous for its terraced rice field countryside, ancient mos-clad temples and pagodas, dense tropical jungle, and secret caves.

It is an oasis for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates unique cultural heritage. Best of all, it’s just a short drive away from Hanoi. I recommend taking this guided Ninh Binh tour to explore Mua Cave, ride a boat through the Tam Coc caves, and much more.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

An areal shot of Phu Quoc Island's coastline and buildings from a cable car

There really are few places that compare to the tropical splendor of Phu Quoc Island. For the clearest water in Vietnam, this pristine beach is a haven for watersports and underwater exploration – perfect for learning how to snorkel or scuba dive.

Highly recommended for romantic visits, spend your evenings gazing across the ocean at sunset and your days exploring the remote island jungle or enjoying the panoramic vistas from a cable car.

Man strolling by Mui Ne sand dunes in Vietnam

Mui Ne is a resort town in Southeast Vietnam famous for its beaches and sand dunes.

Other than a beach fringed by palm trees and unique rock formations, the Red Sand Dunes are a huge attraction for off-road driving and quad biking.

The metropolitan center of Ho Chi Minh City is a must-see when visiting Vietnam. Sure, there are many parts of the city that wouldn’t cut this list, but a trip to Ho Chi Minh city is undeniably unique.

It’s home to some of the country’s most beautiful buildings, parks, and river landscapes. Oh, and make sure to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the Vietnam War.

When it comes to waterfalls, there really are few that compare to the beauty of Silver Waterfall in Lao Cai. Also referred to as Thac Bac, the waterfall plummets from a height of over 200 meters through the dense and lush jungles of Sa Pa.

As far as coastal cities go, Nha Trang is one of the most unique places in Vietnam.

Best known for its golden sand beaches and crystal clear water, the city is also home to the Ponagar Temple and Long Son Pagoda . There are also a bunch of hot springs, golf courses, and amusement parks to explore here.

Not far from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cao Dai Temple is a sacred temple complex built to honor the Cao Dai faith.

Although recently built, the exquisite temple really shows off the craftsmanship of the Vietnamese, with delicate carvings and intricately painted columns of dragons, flowers, and geometric patterns.

audy on top of a mountain in japan with the osprey aether

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

With postcard-perfect views and many endangered animals, including the Asian black bear and short-tailed pangolin, Ba Be National Park is a beautiful place to visit in Vietnam

It’s made up of lush forests, towering karsts, and serene lakes. It’s also home to the iconic Ban Gioc Waterfalls, the fourth-largest frontier waterfall on the planet.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic .

Getting around Vietnam is pretty easy and safe. The country has plenty of airports, trains, buses, and even boats, as well as a safe national highway network.

Man reclining on a bike in a Vietnam street.

To get from one part of the country to another, flying will be the most convenient option. A cheap flight might cost $30 one-way for the two-hour flight. Travelling by train in Vietnam will be cheaper (around $20), but take longer (35 hours or so). This one is for the rail-die-hards or excessive budgeters.

Once in a major city, you’ll be able to use public buses to get around and can also call a Grab (Vietnam’s equivalent of Uber) when in Ho Chi Minh city, Da Nang, and Hanoi. A Grab might charge around $3 for a ten-minute drive through these cities.

Beautiful travels stay that way insured

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker’s insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is World Nomads travel insurance , which offers various health and insurance products for travelers.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Natural beauty, buzzing cities, more culture and history than you could possibly absorb, and a food scene known as one of the world’s favorite cuisines – what’s not to love about Vietnam? It’s true that the country is famous for its natural beauty. But Vietnam truly shows off when it comes to culture, heritage, and religion.

In a colorful display of vivid cultural dress, shimmering pagodas and temples, and impressive imperial cities, there is a lot to see and even more to learn in Vietnam.

For a dose of nature, Ha Long Bay is one of those spots that exceeds expectations. That said, a trip to Hoi An will open you up to a wealth of vibrant culture and history. For me, both of these places were equally (and uniquely) impressive.

Use these beautiful places in Vietnam to inspire your itinerary planning, and you’re bound for a good time.

Man on a boat ride in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam with a harbor and rock formations in the backdrop

Check out the best hostels in Hanoi to kickstart your adventure.
Know where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City BEFORE you get there… trust me.
Find out how to stay safe in Vietnam using our Vietnam safety guide.
Use our packing list for Vietnam to make sure you bring all the right stuff with ya.
Explore some of the best beaches in Vietnam to experience something a lil’ more chill.
Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking Laos guide .

Joe Middlehurst

Beautiful Places in Vietnam Pinterest Image

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

From exploring the biggest caves in the world to relaxing on palm-fringed beaches or checking off a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, here’s our list of the absolute best things to do in Vietnam!

We’ve been lucky enough to spend more than a decade travelling the world almost non-stop. And a lot of people ask us, of everywhere we’ve been, which is our favourite country.

Without hesitation, we can honestly say Vietnam is.

This long nation in Southeast Asia is a wealth of culture, activities, good food and amazing people. No matter how much time you spend there you could never run out of great ways to enjoy Vietnam.

Don’t underestimate this place. We spent 7 months travelling this amazing country, getting as off the beaten path as possible, and we still didn’t manage to do everything here.

But don’t stress if you don’t have 7 months, because we’re going to help you narrow down just what you should do on your trip to visit Vietnam.

Check out our ultimate guide to travelling in Vietnam!

Table of Contents

1) Explore the World’s Biggest Caves in Phong Nha

2) check out vietnam on a motorbike, 3) learn about the local culture, 4) cruise the mekong delta, 5) sandboard down the sand dunes in mui ne, 6) walk the streets of hoi an ancient town, 7) go on a vespa tour, 8) relax on the stunning beaches, 9) explore the my son ruins, 10) cycle through the rice fields in mai chau, 11) go for a trek in sapa, 12) explore the dong van plateau in northern vietnam, 13) visit the sunday ethnic minorities market at bac ha, 14) learn about the war history in the dmz area, 15) visit a local produce market, 16) learn to cook vietnamese food, 17) go on a junk boat cruise in halong bay, 18) have coffee with a local, 19) go canyoning in dalat, 20) be adventurous with your food, 21) enjoy hanoi or ho chi minh city from a rooftop, 22) explore the marble mountains in da nang, 23) stay in a traditional homestay, 24) get lost in the imperial city in hue, 25) go trekking or biking in bach ma national park, 26) visit vietnam’s giant’s causeway at ganh da dia, 27) visit the cu chi tunnels outside of hcmc, 28) learn about the hill tribes in kon tum, 29) visit a pagoda, 30) take a boat ride down trang an in ninh binh, 31) climb the highest mountain in indochina in sapa, 32) go scuba diving in nha trang, 33) take a getaway to a tropical island, the best things to do in vietnam.

If you already have your travels here planned, or even if you’re just thinking about taking a trip and are curious what to see and do, then this list is for you.

From the famous Halong Bay, to the historic spots like the Cu Chi Tunnels, to the various Pagodas, beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and more, here are some of the best things to do in Vietnam.

Of everywhere we went in Vietnam (and we went to a lot of places), Phong Nha is by far the coolest and best destination in Vietnam for a number of reasons.

Other than being an absolutely beautiful place, an adventure hot-spot and filled with friendly locals, it also has some of the largest caves in the world.

These caves are a real natural wonder located inside the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, and they will blow your mind. They are so amazing it was easy to list the park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There is a cave experience for everyone’s budget. You can explore Hang Son Doong, the world’s biggest cave , on a 4-day expedition at $3000 per person.

Or camp the night in Hang En, the world’s third-biggest cave, at about $300 per person.

Still out of your price range? Don’t worry, there’s plenty of other great caves to check out in Phong Nha, such as Tu Lan Caves, Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, Hang Over and Dark Cave.

Visiting these caves can last anywhere from an hour day trip up to five days.

On the more adventurous ones, you can expect to cross rivers, hike through pristine jungle, be surrounded by limestone mountains and spend time in ethnic minority villages.

On the easier ones, you can tour the caves by boat or by following boardwalks. Don’t miss joining a guided tour of a few of the highlight caves.

The caves are an unmissable part of the Vietnam sightseeing experience.

Make sure you head down to Phong Nha on your trip and explore as many of the caves as possible! But if you can only pick one, be sure to visit Hang Son Doon as it is truly remarkable!

Check out our post about exploring the world’s biggest cave, Hang Son Doong!

Buy a bike, rent a bike or hire a driver. Either way, seeing part of Vietnam on a motorbike is the way to go.

There is something about having the wind in your face and taking travel slower than usual, and riding a motorbike is the best way to do it in this country.

It’s almost become a rite of passage for a lot of travellers, and you’ll find hundreds of people riding motorbikes the length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

But those in the know head up to Northern Vietnam to see the most striking scenery in the country.

Another popular trip is the Hai Van Pass between Hoi An and Hue, which will give you epic ocean views and a dose of war history too.

If you are not a confident rider head to the beautiful town of Dalat and sign up with a company called Easy Riders . They offer trips (from one day to one week) as a passenger on one of their large bikes with an experienced rider.

When you are booking in town just make sure it is a legit company, not a fake one, as there are plenty of them around Dalat.

Check them out on Get Your Guide to book the real version.

No trip to Vietnam would be complete without spending a decent amount of time learning about the local culture.

A fascinating mix of beliefs and customs has resulted in Vietnamese culture developing a fascinating mix of spiritual elements.

All it takes is spending a bit of time in the temples or with people in their homes to discover how beautiful it really is.

Do yourself a favour and spend some time immersing yourself into the local culture , and you will gain a much deeper understanding of the Vietnamese people.

The best way to do this is to do a homestay, visit different temples and try to head out to some ethnic minority villages. The north is particularly good for this.

Down in the south of Vietnam is the incredible Mekong Delta, which is one of the most fascinating and culturally remarkable places in the country.

This is where the mighty Mekong River finally spills into the ocean, and Vietnamese villagers have flocked to this delta to fish, trade produce and sell goods.

The best way to explore the Mekong Delta is to take a cruise or a boat ride and enjoy the river life. If you only have a few hours do a boat tour from Can Tho or Ben Tre.

If you have more time you can take a 4-8 day cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia along the Mekong Delta. Cruise the Mekong Delta the way you want to.

Get up early and don’t miss the floating markets. It is great to see all the hustle and bustle of life on the Mekong Delta.

There’s no need to travel to Namibia or Australia to try your hand at sandboarding – one of the best things to do in Vietnam is to try this fun activity in the south!

Just 20 minutes out of Mui Ne you will find the Red Sand Dunes. These are gorgeous and nice to see, but head out further to the White Sand Dunes for the real fun.

These dunes are more breathtaking, especially at sunset. You can hire a sandboard from one of the local vendors and have fun going down the semi-steep slopes or book a tour on Get Your Guide .

The ancient port town of Hoi An in Central Vietnam is one of the most beautiful spots in the country, and should not be missed on your list of what to do in Vietnam!

Yes Hoi An is a busy tourist town, but that is for good reason. Hoi An is a photographer’s dream, with a mix of eras and styles from the Japanese Covered Bridge to the colourful French colonial buildings to wooden Chinese shophouse to Vietnamese tube houses.

Hoi An is simply gorgeous! The Hoi An ancient city is one of the top attractions in Vietnam.

Get up early and explore the streets of the Hoi An ancient town when the locals are up and the tourists are still sleeping.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our blog post on all the great things to do in Hoi An.

As we’ve already mentioned, one of the most valuable ways to experience Vietnam is to learn about the culture. A great way to do this is to join a guided tour in some of the coolest places in the country.

There’s an amazing company called Vespa Adventures, and they run different Vespa tours in Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue and Ho Chi Minh City.

We did one of their tours in the ancient town of Hoi An, and it was such an amazing way to experience how locals live.

Hopping on the back of a Vespa scooter and riding along the banks of Thu Bon River stopping off at local villages we met local families, learnt about weaving, boat building and of course ate lots of local dishes.

We highly recommend this Vespa tour in Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City or anywhere else in the country. Check out our article on our experience .

Riding a Vespa is a fun and popular way to explore many of the Vietnam tourist attractions.

With Vietnam’s very long coastline, it’s no surprise that it has some beautiful beaches.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to relax and enjoy the white sands, crystal clear water and fresh seafood coming to you without having to get off your chair.

While Vietnam isn’t as famous for its beaches like other Southeast Asia countries (think Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia), there are still some epic spots.

Check out An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach which are both in Hoi An, or Doc Let Beach on the Hon Khoi Peninsula.

Some of the best places to visit in Southern Vietnam are the Con Dao Islands.

The My Son Hindu Sanctuary is a great example of the ancient Champa civilisation and is the longest inhabited archaeological site in Indochina.

While it’s not as large or as impressive as another UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, it’s still pretty epic, and should be added to your itinerary of places to visit in Vietnam.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located near the town of Hoi An. Unfortunately, it once was a lot larger than it stands today but during the Vietnam War some of the site was destroyed.

It is still definitely worth visiting and learning about this era. Visiting the Hindu-themed ruins you will be impressed by the beautiful stone sculptures, temples and tower ruins.

Do yourself a favor and book into a tour if you’d like to get the most out of your time there.

Want to read more about this interesting place? Check out our article on the My Son ruins .

Mai Chau is a gorgeous, bucolic village only a few hours from Hanoi.

If you’re looking for a wonderful and unique experience, don’t miss doing a homestay here and riding around the rice fields.

This is a beautiful way to see rural Vietnam and learn about farming and traditional-style textile manufacturing. This is a popular area for visitors, and once you get there you will see why.

You can stay in a traditional homestay or an eco-lodge and tour around the area. Trust us, you won’t get bored in Mai Chau.

Rent a bicycle and ride through the rice fields, trek up in the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, explore some caves, take a boat ride on Hoa Binh Lake and do some shopping for local textiles.

The best time to visit the area is from October to April as these months are the most pleasant. Check out our article if you would like to read more on Mai Chau .

If you want to go trekking in Vietnam, Sapa is one of the best places to visit.

With rolling rice terraces of the Muong Hoa Valley and mountains towering all around, you can spend weeks here hiking in the area.

There are treks to suit everyone’s time frame and fitness level. You can learn about the hill tribes in the area such as the Hmong, Tay and Dao tribes.

They will happily greet you when you hope off the bus, offering their services for trekking or a homestay. Stay a day to chill out in Sapa after your activities.

This place is gorgeous to relax and take in the mountain fresh area. Spoil yourself and get a hotel with a view of the mountains.

Check out our article if you would like to read more about trekking in Sapa .

This part of Vietnam really blew us away. Not many tourists get up here, and we have no idea why not.

It is some of the most beautiful landscapes we saw in all of Southeast Asia.

With rolling mountains to rice terraces to beautiful canyons, this place is different around every corner. Hire a motorbike and ride the area yourself or jump on a tour but this trip will be one you will not forget.

The Dong Van Karst Plateau is located high in the mountains in the very north of Vietnam, on the border of China. The area offers stunning narrow valleys with rocky mountain ranges.

In 2010, UNESCO recognised this area as a geological park. This area spreads out over 2,3000 square kilometres over the districts of Meo Vac, Dong Van, Yen Minh and Quan Ba.

It is believed that the rocks of Dong Van contain fossils from up to 600 million years ago. Because you are travelling near the Chinese border, you do need a permit which you can get from Ha Giang.

We recommend giving yourselves at least a week to properly explore the area.

This market isn’t just an ordinary Vietnamese market – The Bac Ha Market is the biggest ethnic market in Vietnam and takes place only on Sundays.

All the ethnic tribes such as Flower Hmong, Black Dzao, Nung, Phu la and Tay, come together to sell their goods.

The market is a living museum full of colours and beautiful smells. If you are interested in learning more about the tribe’s cultures, traditions and unique customs, we recommend hiring a guide to translate your questions.

Please be respectful and ask permission if you want a photo of a person, as some locals do not like it. They are not there for your entertainment, they are just going about their lives.

It’s really a spectacular place and can be done as a day trip from Sapa.

This one is for history lovers. The Vietnamese Demilitarised Zone was an area where a dividing line between North and South Vietnam was drawn as a result of the First Indochina War.

You can visit the DMZ Area include Ben Hai River, Hien Luong Bridge, Hamburger Hill, Khe Sanh Combat Base, Truong Son National Cemetery and learn about what happened in the area by visiting a small museum.

You will visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels and see how people lived underground during the war.

You will learn all about the Vietnam War that had a big significant impact in the area also.

You can get a tour out of Hue or Phong Nha, and you should as it’s one of the best attractions in Vietnam.

This is one of those things to do in Vietnam that you can tackle in just about every town, and is something that will probably become part of your daily routine anyway.

Vietnam has amazing local produce, and staring at the huge array of fruits and vegetables is sure to leave you not only feeling hungry but also curious about all the different kinds!

Visiting a local produce market is a great way to see how everyday life works in Vietnam. Go for a wander, check out all the different fruits, savouries and other creations, and chat away to the locals.

The best way to really explore a produce market is with a local guide . They will explain how the market is set up, they can translate for you if you have questions for the sellers and farmers and they can explain the weird and wacky foods.

Once you get your head around them, make sure you always have a pocketful of Dong with you whenever you’re out and about to stock up on fresh fruit for the day!

No matter how short your stay is, make sure to visit a local market – it’s a Vietnam must see!

Immersing yourself into the local food is a great way to learn more about a country, and luckily Vietnamese food is some of the best in the world!

There are cooking classes all over Vietnam , and each class will offer different dishes and experiences.

There is such diversity in the food from North to South, so you can literally do one in each major town and you’ll probably learn a new dish each time.

Some of the cooking classes will take you to the markets where you can buy the ingredients and cook it together. We love this type of class as you get to be part of every step of the process.

Coming home from your holiday and knowing how to cook some different dishes is a win, and will ensure you’re forever popular with your friends and family!

Halong Bay is probably one of Vietnam’s most well-known attractions. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in northeastern Vietnam, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and distinctive karst limestone formations.

Characterized by emerald-green waters dotted with thousands of towering limestone islets topped with lush vegetation, Halong Bay offers a mesmerizing seascape.

Bai Tu Long Bay is part of the famous Halong Bay. This bay is a lot quieter and peaceful compared to the more popular spots in Halong Bay.

With limestone towering islets everywhere you look, Bai Tu Long Bay is best to be seen over a few days on a cruise.

Kayak on the waters, walk on the islands and visit a local village to learn about how the locals live and about the area of Halong Bay.

Make sure to save at least one day to go on a cruise down Halong Bay, it’s one of the best things to see in Vietnam.

You go on holidays to see the new place but also to meet people. Don’t be shy to chat with locals. Practice your Vietnamese and they can practise their English.

It is amazing who you can meet by putting your guard down sometimes. It can be hard to have a real, authentic experience with locals when you travel, so do everything you can to be open to genuine invitations.

If you are interested there are local university students in the bigger cities that have groups where you can contact them for a time and day.

They love chatting with foreigners, just buy them coffee or lunch. Check out Saigon Hotpot in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi Kids in Hanoi.

If you want to get your heart racing, go canyoning in Dalat!

We loved this experience in the beautiful French colonial city of Dalat. This day tour is full-on, with waterfalls up to 18 metres high to rappel off, rock slides to slide down and even an 11-metre cliff jump.

It is an action-packed day. The company we went with were so professional and are highly trained.

You can go all out and do it all, or challenge yourself and do what you feel comfortable with

The staff are there beside you the whole time. It is a day you will not forget.

If you’re not the adventurous type, don’t worry! Go on a tour of Dalat , it’s interesting an interesting ancient town on its own.

Want to read about our canyoning experience? Check out our article on canyoning in Dalat .

One of the most interesting parts of travelling is trying all the different food available, and Vietnam isn’t any different.

Every country has their own styles and twists on cuisine, so be adventurous and give them a try. Vietnamese food, in general, is very delicious, but it can also be pretty unusual.

We had duck blood soup when we were in Northern Vietnam and surprisingly it was not too bad.

We also tried monkey brains in Phong Nha, which was a local delicacy served for very special occasions.

If you are invited over to a locals house for a meal, give all the food a try, even if it’s something you’d never normally try.

If you want to learn more about the local cuisine, take a food tour in Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi, Da Nang or Hoi An.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are both very busy cities, and one of the best places to admire the hustle and bustle is from above on a rooftop.

We found a lot of great bars and cafes near busy intersections or roundabouts and watched day turn into night with the thousands (and thousands) of scooters zipping around below.

It was crazy watching all the traffic take on the large roundabout and the occasional scooter bumps which causes some quick arguing, looking and then they move on.

Check out the EON51 Restaurant and Lounge on level 50 of the Bitexco Financial Tower in Ho Chi Minh City. This has a great view, but you do pay for it with the prices of the drinks and food.

The rooftop views in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are some of our favourite things to see in Vietnam.

Check out our epic list of things to do in Hanoi.

As Vietnam’s third-biggest city, Da Nang is quite awesome. So don’t be surprised if you end up spending more time here than you expected.

Da Nang is in the centre of the country and has a wonderful cultural vibe about it. The food is amazing, the people are cool, and there’s so much to see and do!

If you love beaches, then Da Nang has you covered. There are long stretches of sand perfect for swimming, surfing or sunbathing, and you can find lots of cheap hotels and resorts along them.

The peninsula near Da Nang is a great spot to spend the day, with lots of cool little hikes and coves to check out.

But one of our favourite places in Da Nang is the Marble Mountains , a collection of hills that have been mined for marble over the years and are now left rising out of the flat city landscape.

You can climb them to visit some temples and get gorgeous views over Da Nang. Definitely worth visiting!

Don’t forget to include this highlight on your list of what to see in Vietnam!

Don’t miss out on all the best things to do in Da Nang in our detailed article .

You can do this all over Vietnam. From the Mekong Delta in the south to Sapa in the north, there are homestays in a lot of rural areas.

A homestay is where you stay with locals in their home (not a hotel or bed & breakfast) and you share incredible experiences with them, such as eating together as a family.

You can help the family cook their meals or be involved in daily chores just by showing an interest is why the locals do this.

The Vietnamese people love showing visitors how they live and are happy to teach you more about their culture.

Visiting the Imperial City in Hue will teach you a huge part of the history of Vietnam from when the Nguyen Dynasty ruled the country from 1802 to 1945.

For its history and beauty, the Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth the visit.

The Imperial City is a massive complex which features hundreds of monuments and ruins that will take you back in time.

They have a 3D story video which explains a lot and we highly recommend you watch. If you love learning about history , get a guide and go deep into the past .

READ MORE: Check out this post on our recommendations for the best things to do in Hue!

If you want to get out of the city and be in nature check out Bach Ma National Park. With amazing hiking and biking, these scenic trails will amaze you.

You can organise tours out of Hue or hire a scooter, explore the national park for the day or more, and enjoy the trails that are offered from easy to difficult levels with various lengths.

There are fresh ponds to take a dip, hike to waterfalls and great view spots to take a break and take in the beauty of the national park.

Be prepared for wet conditions and make sure you have some good shoes.

There are also a fair number of leeches so check your body for these suckers.

We highly recommend spending a few days in the national park and even getting a guide so you get the best out of the area.

For nature enthusiasts, this is one of the more popular Vietnam attractions.

We bet you didn’t know Vietnam had its own version of Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway! Well, now you do, and it’s definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Vietnam.

Ganh Da Dia in the south is a spectacular rock formation that juts out from the coast and into the sea.

Thousands of hexagonal basalt columns come out of the earth in mesmerising ways, often with not even a millimetre of space between them.

It’s pretty off-the-beaten-path, so chances are you’ll have this entire site to yourself.

Want to visit for yourself? Check out our article about Ganh Da Dia to find out how!

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is one tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City a lot of people will visit.

It is best to hire a guide and learn about the underground network of tunnels located about 40 kilometres from the city in the Cu Chi District.

The tunnels were used as hiding spots, hospitals, living quarters and supply routes by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.

The narrow passages give a harrowing insight into what it must have been like for the soldiers and families that had to live through such a horrific time in Vietnam’s history.

You can do this on your own out of Ho Chi Minh City, but we recommend going on a guided tour through Get Your Guide .

Most tourists skip the cool town of Kon Tum near the border of Laos, and it’s a real shame because those that do make it out here are always blown away!

The city of Kon Tum itself is quite a standard city, with lots of traffic and little parks along the river you can get away from the noise. But the true highlights are when you escape the downtown area.

Rent a bicycle or motorbike and head out into the hill tribe villages and farmlands, where you will come across some of the coolest ethnic structures in Vietnam!

The hill tribes around Kon Tum are known for their huge Long Houses, steep-pitched wooden shelters that act as community halls.

If you’re really lucky you might come across a traditional ceremony as well. Kon Tum is well worth a visit if you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Vietnam.

There are so many beautiful and iconic pagodas to visit throughout Vietnam. These pagodas are full of traditions, beliefs and interesting architecture, with the stunning decorations.

Some of the most famous pagodas to visit are Perfume Pagoda and Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, One Pillar Pagoda near Ho Chi Minh City, Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue, Linh Phuoc Pagoda, Linh An Pagoda and Van Hanh Pagoda in Dalat .

When visiting the pagodas please be mindful to respect the culture. Walk into the pagodas on the right and exit on the left.

Take off your shoes when entering, be respectful of people praying, don’t point your feet at the alter or statues and dress conservatively, so no hats, no exposed shoulders and no shorts.

The best time to visit a pagoda is in the morning before the crazy crowds come in.

We had heard about Ninh Binh as we were travelling north and lots of travellers had said to stop in, so we did.

It is worth it.

Ninh Binh is a decent-sized ancient town an hour south of Hanoi, surrounded by rice fields and hundreds of limestone cliffs.

People call the area the “Halong Bay On The Land”, and once you get there you’ll understand why. Huge Karst mountains rise out of the earth, with gorgeous rivers and lakes wrapping around them.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Ninh Binh is the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grottoes consist of a handful of caves and rocks towering out from a large network of canals and lakes. It is so beautiful.

We chose to do a tour of this one over Tam Coc, as we have heard Tam Coc is crowded and has become quite commercial over the years.

Ninh Binh really is a marvellous place to visit in Vietnam.

Why not give yourself a challenge and climb the highest mountain in Indochina, Mount Fansipan. Located just outside of Sapa, this hike will challenge you. But you will be rewarded with stunning views.

We did the hike in one day. But if you do not hike often, we recommend doing the hike in 2 days. This way you can camp at the hut up the top and enjoy sunset and sunrise all alone.

You can book tours through most of the guesthouses in Sapa. There is a gondola now that goes to the top. So if you are not a hiker, you can still go to the top of Mount Fansipan to enjoy the views

Each way on the gondola takes approximately 15 minutes and will set you back 600,000 Vietnamese Dong per adult.

Vietnam isn’t known for being a diving paradise, especially with hotspots like Indonesia and the Philippines close by. But if you love getting underwater then there are some good spots to do it.

Nha Trang in the south is quite a popular place for Russian tourists. But if we are completely honest with you, it really isn’t that nice.

It’s busy and the beaches are quite developed. But there’s a couple of good reasons you should go here anyway.

First of all the motorbike ride from Dalat to Nha Trang is amazing, and well worth checking out.

If you’re a certified diver then once you get to Nha Trang why not head out for a couple of fun dives in the South China Sea?

We did two dives in Nha Trang and were pleasantly surprised by how good it was. We weren’t expecting much, but it turned out to be really enjoyable, with a couple of caves to swim through and a decent amount of fish.

Check out our article about scuba diving in Nha Trang.

Vietnam has a number of beautiful tropical islands, which are all worthy of taking a relaxing island getaway to.

Phu Quoc is probably the most popular of these islands. An island getaway to Phu Quoc is one of the best things to do in Vietnam!

Situated off the southwestern coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc has emerged as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and diverse marine life.

Beyond the idyllic beaches, Phu Quoc also boasts lush national parks, such as Phu Quoc National Park, where visitors can explore dense forests, trek to waterfalls, and encounter unique wildlife.

We recommend that you also check out Con Dao Island in the south. This is a quieter option compared to Phu Quoc.

Overall the Con Dao Archipelago is one of the most beautiful destinations in Vietnam.

You will find stunning mountains, thick canopies of forest and amazing marine life.

Yep, it is a diving paradise. If you are in the north check out Cat Ba Island, which is the bigger island of Halong Bay.

There are 3 lovely beaches located near the main town on Cat Ba Island and the gorgeous Cat Ba National Park for exploring.

[box] That’s it! Have we missed anything? Did you find the list useful? Let us know in the comments below![/box]

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Here's when to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, lower prices, and excellent sightseeing.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit for good weather, best times to visit for lower prices, best times to visit for hiking in sa pa, best times to visit for cruising ha long bay, worst times to visit.

Khoa Nguyen/Getty Images

Cinnamon and star anise perfume my memories of Vietnam, a country that lodged itself into my palate in fragrant, frenzied bursts. That alluring scent of pho was one of few constants as I traveled through vastly different landscapes, trekking through verdant rice terraces, dodging motorbikes en route to speakeasies, and standing face to face with an endangered monkey in my oceanfront outdoor shower — all within the span of two weeks.

Vietnam is more than 1,000 miles long, a spectacularly slim country that’s only 30 miles wide at its narrowest point. Every region boasts its own allure as well as its own climate, which means you’ll need to carefully consider the time of your visit based on your desired itinerary.

“As the climate varies so much from north to south, there will always be somewhere worth going in Vietnam, whatever time of year you travel,” says Melissa Matthews, regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah .

Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam:

High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April
Shoulder Seasons: North: December to February, May to August; Central: September to March; South: September to December
Low Season: North: May to October; Central: September to May; South: May to September

Before you start planning your trip, read on to learn about the best times to visit Vietnam for hiking the majestic, mountainous rice terraces of Sa Pa, cruising the limestone marvels of Ha Long Bay, and avoiding the rainy monsoon season.

Bang The Tran/Getty Images

The high season in Vietnam varies according to the region, so you’ll always be able to find a place that feels more secluded from the bustle of crowded beaches or cruise ships. Wet season attracts fewer crowds, says Matthews, which falls from May to October in the north, September to May in the central part of the country, and May to September in the south.

Visiting during this time has plenty of perks, as you’ll likely be able to save on accommodations and travel costs. Popular restaurants and tours will be less overrun with tourists, offering a rare opportunity to better immerse yourself in the local culture as you tuck into bun cha on a sidewalk stool. However, bursts of rain and cloudy weather can dampen any plans to hike in Sa Pa or cruise along Ha Long Bay — two quintessential experiences you won’t want to miss.

There are also an abundance of places that remain less crowded throughout the year, says Benjamin Kreuz, general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay — the resort itself is one of them, nestled in a private cove of Nha Trang that became my personal definition of paradise. Many visitors tend to prioritize other attractions as they make their way south, so natural wonders in the north like Ban Gioc Waterfall and the network of caves in Quang Binh remain less busy.

Meet the Expert

Melissa Matthews is the regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah.
Benjamin Kreuz is the general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

No matter when you visit, you’ll always find good weather somewhere in Vietnam. “Vietnam is a beautiful country with tropical weather, making it suitable for visits throughout the year,” says Kreuz.

For those hoping to see Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and everything in between, it’s best to go in the dry season. “February and March are the best months to see the entire country from north to south in relatively dry weather,” says Matthews. She notes that Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls during this time and can last for up to 10 days. “During this time, most of the key sights in the cities are closed, as everyone goes back to their family villages to celebrate,” she says. She recommends heading to the beach during the festival and bookending your trip with time in the major cities.

For a dry and temperate trip to Sa Pa or Hanoi in the north, head there from September to November, or in March and April, she suggests. A sunny beach visit to Hoi An or Nha Trang in the central region is best from April to August, while the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island in the south are warmest from October to April.

Vietnam is a relatively affordable destination all year long, with abundant and economical street food and comfortable hotels for all budgets. For your best chance at scoring low-cost flights and accommodations, consider traveling outside the peak tourist season. April, May, October, and November are excellent times, as you’ll still find warm weather throughout the country, but will have fewer tourists to contend with.

Wand_Prapan/Getty Images

A visit to the verdant, terraced rice fields of Sa Pa are a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley, the hills are surrounded by spectacular mountains and home to dozens of communities, including the Hmong and Red Dao peoples — many of whom open their homes for overnight stays and lead private or group trekking tours. You can reach this famed hiking destination by car from Hanoi in five hours, by a bus in six to eight hours, or on an overnight sleeper train.

Matthews notes that this region tends to get colder from December to February, so it’s best to plan a trip from September to November or in March and April. Harvest season is also an unforgettable time to visit: In late August through September, the vibrant green hillsides turn a voluptuous shade of gold as the rice ripens.

Nikada/Getty Images

Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone towers, is one of the primary tourist destinations in Vietnam, and as such, has become increasingly overrun with cruise operators leading day tours. For a less crowded experience, consider booking an overnight cruise that will take you deeper into the bay — or to the equally beautiful, slightly less populated neighboring Lan Ha Bay. (I splurged for a two-night cruise with Orchid Cruises , one of the more luxurious tour operators).

March, April, October, and November are ideal months to visit, as they tend to bring warm and sunny weather without as much humidity. You’ll also avoid the peak season, so while it’s still bound to be busy, you can enjoy kayaking through the tranquil waters and hiking Cat Ba island in relative peace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a great opportunity for a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure.

Nick Dolding/Getty Images

While Vietnam’s varied climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, you may want to avoid traveling to the country during monsoon season.

“When the monsoon hits, it is hard and heavy and very humid,” says Matthews, who suggests sightseeing in cities during the wet season, where you can still visit museums and historic temples between rainstorms. “Avoid the mountainous region of Sa Pa and definitely don’t book a cruise in Ha Long Bay, as storms will occur and boats are grounded,” she warns.

If you do decide to travel during the rainy season, it’s best to remain flexible in your planning, says Kreuz. “Consider not booking everything in advance due to unpredictable weather,” he says, adding that staying open-minded may help you to take advantage of potential low-season discounts.

Tet, which marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is another tricky time to visit, as many landmarks and businesses close for a week or more to celebrate. It typically lands in late January or early February — this year, it falls on Feb. 10.

17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

Vietnam is an astonishing mix of natural highlights and cultural diversity.

The scenery ranges from jagged peaks seen from winding mountain passes down to verdant paddy fields painted every shade of green in the palette, while Vietnam's long history and multicultural population (with over 50 ethnic minority groups) make a trip here rich in heritage.

Outdoor lovers can get their teeth into the countryside within the numerous national parks, where hiking, biking, and kayaking are popular things to do, but Vietnam's most famous natural tourist attraction, the spectacular karst seascape of Halong Bay, is one natural sight that even the more slothful can experience up close on a cruise.

While the rural areas brim with lush panoramas, the big cities buzz with contemporary life and provide ample opportunities to get stuck into Vietnam's tasty culinary highlights.

This fascinating country is full of surprises and is one of Southeast Asia's most underrated destinations. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Halong Bay

2. ho chi minh city, 4. phong nha-ke bang national park, 7. sapa countryside, 9. nha trang, 10. cu chi tunnels, 11. ba be national park, 12. mekong delta, 13. cat ba island, 14. ha giang, 15. phu quoc island, 16. con dao islands, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit vietnam.

The karst seascape of Halong Bay is one of the best places to visit in the world for spellbinding sea views and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thousands of limestone islands sit within this bay in the Gulf of Tonkin, eroded into jagged pinnacles by wind and water action over millennia.

With the bay's scenery best seen by boat, this is prime cruising territory. Opt for at least an overnight tour to see Halong Bay's iconic views as a day trip doesn't do it justice.

There are plenty of caves in the bay that can be entered including the Hang Sung Sot, with three mammoth caverns, and the Hang Dao Go, with superbly weird stalagmites and stalactites. For most people though, the highlight is simply cruising amid the karsts and soaking up the changing scenery of pinnacles as you pass by.

There are plenty of different cruise tours to choose from. Check the different itineraries offered before booking as many travelers have left Halong Bay underwhelmed by their cruise.

Author's Tip: If possible, book a tour that takes in neighboring Lan Ha Bay as well as Halong Bay. The karst scenery is just as dramatic here but fewer cruise trips visit. And check if your cruise offers included activities such as guided kayaking (which allows you to experience an up-close view of the scenery).

For big city fans, no visit to Vietnam is really complete without a visit to Ho Chi Minh City, the buzzing commercial hub of the country.

The streets are an insane clog of motorbikes and cars, the restaurant and café scene is incredibly cosmopolitan, and the shopping is the best in the country.

At its center is Dong Khoi, a relatively small and easily navigable central district, which holds most of the city's sights.

Here, you'll find the HCMC Museum, with a brilliant collection of artifacts that weaves together the story of the city, and the grand Notre Dame Cathedral, built in the late 19th century.

Check out the old district of Da Kao nearby for some of the best surviving examples of the city's French colonial architecture and also to visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda with its dazzling array of Buddhist and Taoist religious iconography.

Afterwards, the History Museum is a must-do for history fans with stacks of relics on display from various archaeological sites.

For many visitors, the two big-hitter tourist attractions not to miss are just a little out of the center, along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street. The Reunification Palace, then known as Independence Palace, was the residence for South Vietnam's president. It's chiefly famous as the spot where North Vietnam's tanks stopped on 30 April 1975, officially ending the war. It's a completely fascinating place to visit complete with 1960s furnishings still in situ.

Nearby is the War Remnants Museum, which although very obviously biased, paints a disturbing picture of the brutality of war and the many atrocities committed by US Forces during their Vietnam campaign.

One of Vietnam's most historic towns, Hue is packed to the brim with relics from the reign of the 19th-century Nguyen emperors.

Sitting along the banks of the gorgeous Perfume River, the Imperial Enclosure is a huge site set within walls that sprawl for 2.5 kilometers.

While touring the grounds check out the gorgeous Ngo Mon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace with its finely lacquered interior detailing, the Dien Tho Residence where the Queen Mothers would live, and the Halls of Mandarins with its preserved ceiling murals.

A dazzling number of historic sites lie outside the Imperial Enclosure walls as well.

One of the nicest ways of visiting a collection of outlying sites is by taking a riverboat cruise on the Perfume River. A day cruise can take you to visit several royal tombs along with some pagodas.

If you're short on time, the best tomb to visit is the Tomb of Tu Doc and the most important pagoda in the area is the Thien Mu Pagoda, with its tower that soars for 21 meters high.

One of the best places to visit in Vietnam for caving, World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a dramatic karst mountain formation honeycombed with huge caverns, which are home to superb stalactite and stalagmite displays.

It's best known for its caving activities , which range from multi-day hiking and caving tours for the more adventurous, to simpler half-day trips to caves with easy access provided by boat trips and modern boardwalks, but the national park also offers mountain biking and trekking activities.

The most popular destinations within the park are the Paradise Cave , which extends for a staggering 31 kilometers below ground, and the Phong Nha Cave, where the interior is accessed by boat. Half-day tours can be easily arranged once you're in the area.

The national park's most renowned caverns though are Son Doong Cave (the world's largest cave) , and the Tu Lan Cave with its cavern river system. Access to these, and to certain other caves in the park are restricted to organized tours (ranging from one-day to multi-day expeditions) which are all run by Phong Nha's expert adventure tour company Oxalis . It's well worth booking in advance to secure your spot.

To make the most of your time here, time your visit for outside the rainy season, which runs from October to December, when many of the national park's caves are closed to the public.

You can access Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park from Son Trach (also known as Phong Nha village).

Surrounded by lush jungle-covered mountains, My Son is a ruined Cham era temple city that dates from the 4th century.

This old Hindu religious center was still very much in use during the 7th to 10th centuries and only fell into complete decline and abandonment during the 13th century.

There are around 20 temple structures still standing here, all built of brick or sandstone blocks and showing interesting influences from various Asian empires, including Indian and Malay.

Note that the temples of Group B are the oldest, while Group A once contained the site's most important monument but was destroyed deliberately by US forces during the Vietnam War.

A good museum on-site houses plenty of information on the Cham.

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

Beautiful Hoi An is the most atmospheric city in Vietnam, with bags of surviving historic architecture.

The old town quarter is a joy to explore, packed to the brim with well-preserved merchant houses that hark back to Hoi An's trading center heyday of the 15th century, when the town was a major meeting point for Japanese and Chinese merchants who flocked here for the local silks.

Plenty of the old merchant houses have been opened to the public, so you can get a taste of these times. The best is 17th-century Tan Ky House, with fascinating architectural and decorative elements.

Hoi An's major symbol is the delightful Japanese Bridge at the western end of Tran Phu Street, while nearby, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation is the old town's most highly decorated temple.

There are numerous small pagodas and museums dotted about town, but Hoi An's true charm is found in simply rambling the old town streets admiring the well-preserved facades.

The verdant rice field countryside surrounding Sapa, bordered by the jagged peaks of the Hoang Lien Mountains (often still known by their French colonial era name of the Tonkinese Alps), are home to Vietnam's most beautiful rural vistas.

The deep valleys here are home to a diverse mix of the country's ethnic minorities, including the Hmong, Giay, and Red Dzao people, while the rippling hills are terraced with rice fields and overlooked by the country's tallest peak, Fansipan Mountain.

This is the top trekking destination in Vietnam with oodles of options to trek or day hike between tiny villages and experience the staggering mountain views.

Sapa itself is the main base here - an old hill station and now a bustling and forever growing tourist center that is a stark contrast to the sumptuous tranquil countryside right on its doorstep.

Author's Tip: Keen trekkers looking for more of northern Vietnam's lush mountain vistas may want to skip the busy Sapa scene completely and nudge further 95 kilometers northwest to Bac Ha , where the terraced hill views on hikes between hill villages are just as beautiful. Bac Ha's Sunday market is also a very popular day trip from Sapa.

Vietnam's capital is the frenetic heartbeat of the nation and a place that befuddles travelers as much as it charms them.

The motorbike frenzy, pollution, and constant clamor of street vendors can get too much for some travelers, but if you want to dive into Vietnamese city life, Hanoi is the place to do it.

The old town quarter has plenty of dilapidated charm on offer, while history fans should make a beeline here simply to see the bundle of excellent museums.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and Vietnam Fine Art Museum are both brilliant introductions to the diverse artistry of the country, while the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important tribute to the founder of modern Vietnam.

Author's Tip: It's well worth adding extra time into your itinerary to use Hanoi as a base for exploring the many sights within day tripping distance. In particular, the Tay Phuong and Thay Pagodas (30 kilometers west from the central city), Co Loa Citadel (24 kilometers northeast), and the Huong Pagoda (also known as the Perfume Pagoda; 60 kilometers southwest).

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

For sandy fun in Vietnam, Nha Trang is king. The well-maintained beach trundles for six kilometers along the shoreline of central Nha Trang city and during summer is jam-packed with local families on vacation, as well as foreign visitors.

There is excellent swimming here with designated swimming areas and manicured lounging areas that make this a great option for relaxing days soaking up the sun and sand.

If you do get bored of sunbathing, the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers are just to the north across the Xom Bong Bridge and have been used as a place of worship here since at least the 7th century (with some historians saying the site itself has been a place of active worship since much earlier).

There is also an excellent museum dedicated to the work of Alexandre Yersin who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague and founded Nha Trang's Pasteur Institute (which still carries out vaccination programs in Vietnam today).

An absolutely fascinating experience for all travelers, not just those interested in Vietnam's modern military history, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive tunnel network that during the war, stretched for more than 250 kilometers, allowing VC troops to operate and communicate in the area surrounding Ho Chi Minh City.

Two short sections of the network can be visited with a guide who'll take you down into the narrow unlit confines, which definitely are not for claustrophobia sufferers.

You will literally be crawling on your hands and knees and some points. You can access the tunnels at either Ben Dinh village (the more popular choice) or Ben Duoc village.

Tranquil Ba Be National Park is absolutely stunning with the three interlinked Ba Be Lakes at its heart, rimmed by jagged karst peaks and thickly forested slopes.

Most visitors come here to take peaceful boat trips or kayak on the lake and explore the caves full of stalactites and stalagmites in the vicinity, but for the more active, there's also excellent hiking and trekking in the hills here between ethnic minority villages.

This is one of the most peaceful spots in Vietnam, and travelers who spend the night here sleep in traditional stilt-house homestay accommodation along the lakeshore, allowing an experience of simple rural life.

The far south of Vietnam is where the mighty Mekong River finally finds its way to the sea in a maze of waterways that crisscross the floodplain.

Incredibly lush, with paddy field vistas and mangroves, and full of local life, with chaotic floating markets to explore by boat, the delta is one of the most interesting regions for travelers to discover.

Can Tho is the most popular town to use as a base, as it's close to the floating markets of Phong Dien and Cai Rang, while boat trips from Ca Mau allow you to explore the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve.

This area of Vietnam is one of the best to visit for keen bird watchers and nature lovers , as it is home to both Tra Su Bird Sanctuary Forest and Bac Lieu Bird Sanctuary.

One of Vietnam's major centers for activities and adventure travel attractions, Cat Ba Island sits on the western edge of Halong Bay.

This is the best place to visit if you want to organize cruises and kayaking trips in Lan Ha Bay, which lies off Cat Ba's southern coast. Lan Ha Bay is a less visited seascape of karst islets and outcrops that makes for a quieter alternative to Halong Bay.

Off the water, much of Cat Ba's dense jungle interior is part of Cat Ba National Park, where hikers can spot plentiful birdlife, as well as animals such as macaques.

For many visitors, though, Cat Ba is all about climbing opportunities. Climbing excursions here utilize both the island's limestone cliffs and Lan Ha Bay's outcrops, providing experiences to suit both complete climbing beginners and experienced climbers.

The emerald-green karst mountain landscapes along Ha Giang's mountain passes make this far-north province prime territory for scenic road-tripping by either motorbike or car.

In particular, the twisty Quan Ba Pass between Ha Giang town and Tam Son provides panoramic vistas of the karst plateau and its jagged limestone outcrops, while the zigzagging Mai Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac offers dizzying views of the lush mountain scenery and narrow valleys below.

Time your visit to coincide with one of the area's market days, when traders from the surrounding mountain villages pile into town. Dong Van's Sunday market is one of the best.

View of colorful fishing boats from the Phu Quoc cable-car

Sitting 45 kilometers off the southern coast of the country, in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is a densely forested island, speckled by sweeps of white-sand beach that attract plenty of sunseekers during the winter dry season.

Dry season (November to May) is also when the island's underwater and on-the-water tourism attractions spring into action, with plenty of dive sites in the waters just offshore, as well as opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trips.

Many of the main boat excursions head to the An Thoi Islands, just to the south of Phu Quoc, which is home to the best snorkeling in the area.

Off the water, the Phu Quoc cable-car provides bird's-eye views for eight kilometers, soaring over the seascape and islands, all the way from Phu Quoc to the island of Hon Thom in the An Thoi Islands.

Phu Quac is accessed by plane or regular ferries from the mainland towns of Rach Gia and Ha Tien. As Ha Tien lies very close to the southern border crossing with Cambodia, the island is a popular first (or last) stop-off in Vietnam for overland travelers.

This remote island group lies around 160 kilometers offshore in the South China Sea and is renowned among divers as one of the best places to visit in the country, both for the variety of sea life and for the coral reefs.

Much of the Con Dao Islands, and the surrounding water, is a protected wilderness area, with the island shores home to nesting turtles, and dense forest still covering the island interiors.

The main island, and prime base for visitors with all the accommodation and things to do, is Con Son Island, which has sweeps of sand strung out across its coast that attract beachgoers looking for a relaxed sun-soaked getaway, as well as divers.

Even if you're here mostly for the beach, make sure to explore the historic sites of Con Son Town (the island's only settlement) including Phu Hai Prison, Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, and the prison known as the Tiger Cages, which document the dark history of this isolated island group.

Con Son's remote position led to the island being used to incarcerate political prisoners during the era Vietnam was occupied by French colonial forces, and later by both the South Vietnamese government and the occupying American forces.

Preserved sites including Phu Hai Prison and the prison cages used by the US forces, known as the Tiger Cages, along with Con Son Town's Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, do an excellent job of documenting this history for visitors.

Access to Con Son Island is either by flight from Ho Chi Minh City or by ferry from the coastal city of Vung Tau.

Once a sleepy coastal fishing town, Mui Né has developed into a beautiful beach resort town and a prime destination for windsurfing, sailing, and kitesurfing.

Compared to other beach destinations in Vietnam , however, Mui Né remains relatively unknown - and this means pristine beaches and a quiet retreat for most of the year.

One of Mui Né's most unique attractions is the natural Red Sand Dunes just outside town, where visitors can practice sand-sledding or rent dune buggies for a more adrenaline-charged experience.

Tucked away between nearby fishing villages and towering orange limestone formations, there's the fairy stream, a slow-moving warm stream that almost feels like a walkway because it's so shallow - follow it to the end to reach a waterfall.

For those wishing to explore beyond the coastline, there are also the ruins of the Po Shanu Cham Towers - remnants of the Cham Empire that dominated the area many centuries ago.

Vietnam experiences strong monsoon seasons, where heavy rains hit the cities and the countryside, often causing floods and mudslides. If you're planning to travel around, the best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which lasts from December to February – but there are some exceptions.

The south of Vietnam – where Ho Chi Minh city is located – experiences a more tropical climate, with high temperatures and high humidity year-round. Visiting these areas in the cooler months means less humidity and temperatures in the high 20s rather than the high 30s and 40s, which makes it more comfortable to walk around.

In the north, however, many areas experience an actual winter. Hanoi sees temperatures in the mid- to high teens in December and January – and in the mountains of Sapa in the north, you'll even get to see some snow during these months.

If you're visiting Danang for some beach time or to travel through the ancient town of Hoi An, it's best to arrive between February and May, when water and air temperature are in the 20s – perfect beach weather for enjoying the sand or a dip in the water. The rainy season, and especially the months of September and October, see very heavy rains and often very strong wind storms on the coast, so it's better to stay away from Danang during this time.

More on Vietnam

The 15 best things you can do in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 29, 2024 • 12 min read

Taking a cruise along the Mekong Delta is an incredible experience not to be missed © Cultura Exclusive / Rosanna U / Getty Images

The siren song of Vietnam has brought many travelers to its shores in search of incredible landscapes, pearl-white beaches , chaotic and vibrant cities, and one of the warmest welcomes in the world.

The tough decision for travelers isn't whether they should visit Vietnam, it's how they choose what to do with so many incredible options. Do you start in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)? Do you swap the big city experience for the beaches and seafood suppers of Phu Quoc island? Do you dive headlong into the history of a dozen rival empires, or embrace the dynamic, modern Vietnam that has emerged from the aftermath of conflict?

No matter what you want your vacation to look like, accept that you'll never cover everything in one trip and embrace it as a reason to return. Here are 15 incredible things to do that need to be on your Vietnam to-do list.

1. Embrace past and future Vietnam in historic Hanoi

The vibrant capital of the former North Vietnam – and today the capital of the nation – Hanoi is where old and new Vietnam come together. Traces of the imperial past float like ghosts in a city surging skywards – hawkers drift through the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter selling snacks from traditional yoke baskets, while the surrounding buildings are lit up with advertising displays and strip lights.

Exploring at street level is highly atmospheric and fantastic fun – mix up days visiting wartime and imperial relics with evenings feasting on some of Asia’s finest food and late nights dousing the sticky summer heat with glasses of bia hoi (local draught beer).

Planning tip: As they say, Hanoi rocks, and the best places to rock out like a local are lively live music venues such as the moody Binh Minh Jazz Club and keep-it-loud Hanoi Rock City .

2. Find your own island in the sun in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Okay, we concede that Halong Bay – the atmospheric sprawl of rocky coves and eroded karst islands to the east of Hanoi – is firmly discovered, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to discover away from the cruise ship crowds. If a tour on a diesel-powered luxury junk doesn’t appeal, consider hiring a kayak to potter around Lan Ha Bay near Cat Ba Island , where outcrops sculpted by wind and waves emerge from the water like the teeth of sea monsters.

Alternatively, leave the diesel fumes behind in calmer Bai Tu Long Bay to the north, where more jungle-capped islands shelter low-key resorts and languorous beaches.

High angle close up of a bowl of bun bo hue, or beef noodle soup.

3. Get your fill of imperial cuisine in handsome Hue

Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty held court in Hue until 1945, and the city’s damaged but still impressive historic relics feel somehow closer to imperial China than to the rest of Southeast Asia. However, for many travelers, it’s all about the food. More than half of Vietnam's estimated 3000 local dishes are believed to have originated in Hue, from the vermicelli-noodle-based bun bo Hue and crispy banh khoai pancakes topped with shrimp and pork to canapé-like, soft-and-crunchy banh ram it dumplings. The lavish imperial cuisine known as am thuc cung dinh – created by the emperors’ loyal chefs – can still be sampled in some of Hue's top restaurants, such as Thin Gia Vien and Hoang Phu .

Planning tip: Don’t restrict yourself to posh imperial banquets; for less than 100,000 dong you can gorge on tasty Hue staples at busy stalwart restaurants such as Madam Thu or at food stalls on the streets.

4. Meet Vietnam’s imperial leaders in the Hue tombs

Hue gets a second spot on the list thanks to the astounding imperial tombs, which preserve the mortal remains of a string of Nguyen emperors and empresses, from dynasty-founding Gia Long to Khai Dinh , the last Nguyen emperor to be buried on Vietnamese soil (his son, Bao Dai, the final emperor of Vietnam, was interred in the Cimetière de Passy in Paris ).

While crowds mob the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure, you can still find peaceful moments for contemplation by skipping the boat tours and renting a motorcycle to visit the extravagant mausoleums along the Perfume River. Don’t miss the towering Thien Mu pagoda , looming over the north bank on the city fringes.

Detour: Equipped with two wheels, you can also buzz north from Hue to enjoy unspoiled dune beaches on the sandy barrier island stretching north and south from Thuan An.

5. Learn to make soups, stir-fries and salads on a cooking course

There’s no better souvenir to bring home from Vietnam than being able to prepare your own Vietnamese feast. Indeed, Vietnamese food arguably has a bigger dinner-party cachet than more familiar Thai cuisine.

Up and down the country, you’ll find cooking courses that start with a fragrant market trip to buy fresh ingredients and local herbs and end with a banquet of the dishes you’ve prepared, covering everything from summer rolls to pho noodle soup.

Hoi An is the most popular destination for aspiring chefs – small and personal Green Bamboo Cooking School is highly recommended. There are also good cooking schools in Hue, Hanoi and HCMC.

A woman approaches a ruin surrounded by jungle

6. Unravel Vietnam’s complex religious history in My Son

While travelers mob the regal assembly halls, pagodas and historic homes of Hoi An, nearby My Son offers a calmer vision of Vietnam’s rich and layered past – particularly if you come in the afternoon. The big lure here is the atmospheric collection of UNESCO-listed Hindu temple ruins surrounded by jungle in a loop of the sacred Thu Bon river.

Sharing many architectural features with the Khmer temples of Cambodia and Thailand , these crumbling, red-brick shrines were built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Hindu kingdom of Champa, whose descendants – the Cham people – can still be found in pockets in central Vietnam. With only birdsong to disrupt the quiet, the site scores highly for atmosphere as well as history,

Detour: If you use Hoi An as a base for exploring My Son, set aside a day to explore the nearby Cham Islands , an impressive marine reserve whose granite islands are still inhabited by Cham people, most now followers of Islam.

Explore My Son effortlessly with GetYourGuide. Book your tour today .

7. Visit the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

One of the world’s youngest faiths, the Cao Dai religion was founded in the Mekong Delta town of Tay Ninh in 1926, fusing elements of ancestor worship, folk religions, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Roman Catholicism, with the ultimate goal of freeing the soul from the endless cycle of reincarnation.

To explore its complex customs, head to the cathedral-like Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh. Inside, you’ll see weapon-toting statues, an all-seeing eye, and even a Communist-looking red star – the sect reveres, amongst other figures, Jesus Christ, Buddha, Mohammed and even French novelist Victor Hugo.

Planning tip: Visitors can enter the shrine to witness prayers four times a day; if you have time to kill before or after a visit, detour 15km (9.3 miles) northeast to Nui Ba Den mountain. You can take a gondola then hike to reach its summit cave temples, then whoosh back downhill on a luge-style slide.

Dense, crowed scene of city traffic in rush hour, crowd of people wear helmet, transport by motorcycle,

8. Rumble through the highlands by motorcycle

Vietnam largely moves on two wheels, and a motorcycle is by far the most enjoyable way to explore the hill country of the northwest , even if it takes some courage to adjust to the driving conditions, the errant livestock, and the steep, winding roads. Rent a quality bike in Hanoi and pop your wheels on the train to Lao Cai, to avoid the nerve-jangling ride out of the capital.

Once you reach the heart of the hill country, you can rumble out to outlying villages far from the tourist crowds for epic views and nights in charming homestays run by members of Vietnam’s tribal minorities.

Planning tip: You’ll need an international driving permit to ride legally in Vietnam, and this is only available for some nationalities. Many travelers manage to rent a motorcycle without a permit, but if things go wrong, you won’t be covered by your travel insurance.

9. See the American War through Vietnamese eyes

Modern-day Vietnam is moving on from conflict, but the battlefields from the American War still linger as a sobering reminder of what people had to go through to get to this point. Sites of American losses such as Hamburger Hill in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) are etched into the popular consciousness, but the wartime tunnels at Cu Chi near HCMC and Vinh Moc near Hue offer a glimpse of the Vietnamese experience, as ordinary people went to extraordinary lengths to resist the world’s greatest superpower.

10. Visit villages in the "Asian Alps"

The former French Hill station of Sapa is surrounded by mountains so impressive that French colonizers called them the “Tonkinese Alps,” and the surrounding villages of the H'Mong and Dao ethnic minorities have become popular destinations for hikers – and somewhat commercialized in the process.

For a taste of the scenic serenity that first drew travelers to these lush green hills, head instead to drier, calmer Bac Ha , or the trails and mountain roads around Ha Giang province, tucked against the border with China and seemingly sculpted by the hands of the gods. Stay in hospitable homestays and explore markets, peaceful stilt-house villages, French-era relics and soaring limestone pinnacles, away from the maddening crowds.

Planning tip: There's a lot of competition for the title of best vista in Vietnam but the lookouts gazing over the Dong Van Karst Plateau are strong contenders. The area is designated as a UNESCO Geopark, and the trip from Yen Minh to Dong Van and over the Mai Pi Leng Pass to Meo Vac is particularly spectacular.

11. Find a perfect cup of coffee in the Central Highlands

It was the French colonizers who brought coffee from the Arabian peninsula to Vietnam, but it was the farmers of the Southwest Highlands who mastered the art of coaxing quality beans from these undulating hills. Rising to 1600m (5250ft), Dak Lak Province provides the perfect terroir for growing robusta beans, and the regional capital of Buon Ma Thuot is a great place to tour plantations and track down a quality cup of ca phe , particularly during the annual coffee festival in March. If you insist on arabica beans, head to Dalat and visit the community K'Ho Coffee cooperative, supporting local coffee growers from the K’Ho minority.

Planning tip: The best time to visit coffee country is from September to the end of December when the harvest season is in full swing and plantations are filled with baskets of red beans.

Transform your visit the Central Highlands by booking with GetYourGuide.

Man at the cave entrance in Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world in UNESCO World Heritage Site Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

12. Enter the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in north central Vietnam is a lost world of jungles and caverns, including the world’s largest, Hang Son Doong. The scale of this wonder of nature is simply mind-blowing – a 747 airplane could fly through the cave’s main tunnel.

Parts of the limestone ceiling have collapsed, bringing in natural sunlight, so Hang Son Doong contains an entire rainforest ecosystem with flying foxes, rare langurs, and even a small population of tigers. Since 2012, one tour company – Oxalis Adventure – has been allowed to take a strictly limited number of visitors into Hang Son Doong on challenging four-day treks; the price is stratospheric but so is the scenery.

13. Walk with the ghosts of French Indochina in Ho Chi Minh City

The former capital of South Vietnam may have changed its name from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) , but the past remains close to the surface, from the American War relics in the HCMC Museum and War Remnants Museum to the city’s elegant French-built mansions and civic buildings – many now housing museums, restaurants and boutique hotels.

To get a feel for vintage Saigon, stop for a cup of ca phe sua (milk coffee) at the elegant Hotel Continental Saigon , sample cutting-edge French cuisine at La Villa , and take a stroll past the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the People’s Committee Building – built as HCMC’s Hôtel de Ville but rebranded as the Vietnamese sent the colonizers packing.

Planning tip: To fully appreciate the marvelous, lip-tingling variety of HCMC street food, join a foodie-focused scooter tour with Saigon Street Eats .

Explore Ho Chi Minh City effortlessly with GetYourGuide. Book your tour today .

14. Bask on beautiful beaches

It was the beaches of Phu Quoc Island and Danang – developed as a playground for GIs during the American War – that put Vietnam on the map for seaside vacations, but both have developed into lively resorts. To find unspoiled stretches of sand, modern-day castaways aim their sights at the kitesurfing beaches around Mui Ne , the island sands of the Con Dao archipelago and long, languorous Hong Van Beach on Co To Island in Bai Tu Long Bay .

Planning tip: The best time for a beach trip varies as you move around the country. In central Vietnam, skies are brightest from January to August, while December to April is the beach window on the south coast, and northern Vietnam sees plenty of dry days from October to April.

15. Float on the Mekong Delta

Reaching out into the East Sea like an enormous hand, the mighty Mekong Delta marks the end point of Southeast Asia’s longest river – a 4350km (2700 mile) monster, rising on the Tibetan plateau and emptying to the south of Ho Chi Minh City. This waterlogged wonderland is Vietnam’s rice bowl, nurturing a network of sleepy towns and stilt villages whose residents use the river as their primary artery for life and trade.

For comfortable exploring, book an overnight cruise along the main channel near Can Tho or a cross-border trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia. For a less commercial experience, take a day trip to the backwaters near Ben Tre with Mango Cruises or make your own arrangements with boat owners in Delta villages.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2021 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

Explore related stories

Three friends jumping with happiness next to their car with palm trees in the background

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

After years of hard work, what better way to celebrate than with an amazing adventure? Here are the best places for a graduation trip.

Jan 10, 2024 • 5 min read

Dec 21, 2023 • 9 min read

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 13, 2023 • 5 min read

A boat among the karsts at Halong Bay in Vietnam, as seen from Ti Top island.

Nov 6, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 20, 2023 • 3 min read

France, Paris, view to Eiffel Tower with back view of young woman standing in the foreground

Aug 10, 2023 • 12 min read

Gay male couple family spending a day outdoor in Paris downtown with young daughter, France.

May 8, 2023 • 10 min read

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on May 4, 2024

A long, narrow country squeezed in between the South China Sea and the Laos and Cambodia borders, Vietnam is a land of striking landscapes that range from the lush rice terraces and forested mountains in the north to the picturesque valleys of the Central Highlands and the fertile delta and beautiful beaches of the south.

Vietnam has seen its fair share of struggles. Ruled for almost a thousand years by various Chinese dynasties until 938 AD, Vietnam became a French protectorate in the 19th century. After independence, there was the Vietnam War.

Today, Vietnam is a proud country and you can see why. Not just for fiercely defending its own independence, but for its incredible landscapes and history.

The first words on everyone’s lips when speaking of Vietnam are undoubtedly Halong Bay, a beautiful set of karst islands and formations off the northern coast. Hanoi is the bustling, motorbike filled capital. Plan your trip to this beautiful Southeast Asia travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

17. Da Nang

Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang is an energetic coastal city with a historic French colonial port.

It is known primarily for its fantastic beaches, including the famous My Khe Beach , which Tripadvisor has named as one of the best beaches in Asia.

However, it is also a popular starting point for exploration of the Bà Nà hills , which lie on the city’s western reaches. From there, the spectacular Hải Vân Pass showcases incredible views of Da Nang Bay. Moreover it conveys the Marble Mountains , five imperious limestone outcrops crowned with ornate pagodas and yield caves containing lavish Buddhist shrines.

Da Nang boasts impressive landmarks like the iconic Dragon Bridge , world-class golf courses, and a modern skyline dotted with luxury resorts and upscale shopping centres.

The city is also home to many cultural experiences, including the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture and Da Nang Fine Arts Museum.

16. Ha Giang Loop

If you pride yourself on being an adventurous traveler, then you should embrace the Ha Giang Loop with open arms.

Located in the remote and breathtaking Ha Giang province , tourists can embark on a thrilling motorbike journey through some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. This scenic loop takes you on a winding road that cuts through majestic mountains, lush valleys and terraced rice fields.

The journey provides an immersive experience, allowing you to connect with the authentic culture of the ethnic minority communities that call this region home.

Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional villages , where locals showcase their rich heritage, colorful attire, and warm hospitality.

The loop offers stunning viewpoints such as Ma Pi Leng Pass , with its jaw-dropping vistas of the Nho Que River snaking through the mountains. You can also visit attractions like Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Geopark, and the fairy-tale-like Lung Cu Flag Tower.

Typically, this journey takes three to four days to complete. Its rugged beauty and remote nature are perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

15. Bai Tu Long Bay

If you can’t get to or don’t fancy visiting Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is an excellent alternative. Situated in the northeastern part of Vietnam, it has all the pristine beauty and untouched landscapes of its more illustrious neighbor, only with greater tranquillity and fewer crowds.

The picturesque bay is characterized by its emerald waters, towering limestone islands , and lush vegetation. Cruising through it provides fabulous opportunities for kayaking , swimming and visiting remote fishing villages.

The bay is also home to a diverse ecosystem accommodating rare wildlife, colourful coral reefs and hidden caves waiting for you to discover them.

A tour of the area allows for a more intimate connection with nature and a chance to experience the serenity of the surroundings. Whilst there, be sure to visit the incredible Thien Canh Son Cave . One of 59 discovered caves in the area, it will wow you with its unique stalactite formations.

14. Tam Coc

Tam Coc, often called ‘ Halong Bay on land ‘, is an enchanting destination in the Ninh Binh province.

Forming part of the UNESCO World Heritage Tràng An scenic landscape site, it is renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts that dramatically rise out of emerald green rice fields. Tam Coc presents visitors with a stunning natural landscape that will forever leave an impression on their heart.

The main attraction in Tam Coc is a scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong River , where local rowers skilfully navigate through a series of caves and limestone formations. As you glide along the tranquil waterways, you’ll be mesmerized by the picturesque scenery and the harmonious blend of nature and verdant rice paddies.

Tam Coc is also home to ancient temples and pagodas, such as Bich Dong Pagoda , which is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

If you are into cycling, you can also explore the area in more detail on two wheels.

There are several places in Vietnam where you can go for some beach R&R, but few can compare to the sheer beauty of Mũi Né.

A stunning beach resort town along the southeast coastline, it boasts a long stretch of golden palm-tree-lined sand, perfect for walking and sunbathing. During the dry season, with steady wind conditions, the area becomes a fantastic destination for sailing, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The highlight of Mui Né is undoubtedly its captivating sand dunes . The iconic White Sand Dunes and Red Sand Dunes offer a surreal landscape that resembles a desert oasis. On our last visit, we explored the dunes on an ATV ride and sand boarded down the slopes. Both were a lot of fun!

Beyond the beaches and dunes, Mui Né offers opportunities to explore nearby fishing villages , taste delicious seafood, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Close by, The Fairy Stream, with its gently flowing water and unique rock formations, is a popular spot for a refreshing dip on a stiflingly hot day.

Year-round cool weather and idyllic scenery of misty valleys, lush pine trees and colorful flowers are some of the reasons that Dalat was once used by Vietnamese emperors and French colonials as a summer retreat. Today, this charming town in the South Central Highlands of Vietnam is a popular destination for honeymooners, weekend getaways and for those looking for relief from the heat.

A walkable city, Dalat is a beautiful scene of French colonial architecture and villas set amid picturesque landscapes. The city is well known for its royal palaces that were owned by the last emperor of Vietnam. These lovely palaces are open for tours as is the Hang Nga Guesthouse, the city’s most bizarre attraction. Informally called the “Crazy House,” this structure is a fantastical construction with caves, spider webs and shapes of animals and mushrooms.

Dalat’s lively market is a great place to find fruits, flowers and vegetables grown in the local area as well as handicrafts and silk embroidered items.

Outside the city are scenic lakes, flower gardens, plantations and mountains offering pretty waterfalls and trails for hiking and mountain biking. A must-do is the Valley of Love, an incredibly beautiful valley with pine forests and lakes where tourists can enjoy pedal-boating and canyoning.

Located on the central coast of Vietnam near the Duy Phú village is the important archaeological site known as My Son. One of Southeast Asia’s most notable heritage sites, My Son was once a significant center of religious Hindu ceremonies where the kings of the Champa Kingdom built numerous temples devoted to the worship of the god, Shiva, between the 4th and 14th centuries.

Believed to have once contained more than 70 temples that were constructed with brick and decorative carvings and sculptures bearing scenes of animals, priests, gods, mythical battles and inscriptions of Sanskrit and Champa, My Son today features a complex of ruins in varying states of disarray and repair, all arranged in several groups.

Within the site is a museum where visitors can check out exhibits and artifacts to better understand and appreciate the ruins. Near the entrance of My Son are a few cafes, food vendors and a shop selling souvenirs. At certain times of the day, visitors can watch live Champa dance performances. Additionally, the site is surrounded by jungle, hills and a lake where visitors can enjoy hiking and kayaking.

My Son is often reached by organized tour groups from Hoi An. However, visitors can also arrive at My Son by motorbike rentals.

10. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is a scenic island in the Gulf of Thailand. While it officially forms part of Vietnam, it is actually closer geographically to Cambodia . Today, it’s characterized by dense tropical jungle, soft sandy beaches, and undulating hills. But the island has a fascinating history, having served first as a French missionary base and then as a French colonial wartime prison – a gloomy reformatory that you can visit today.

History aside, the island is most tempting for its alluring tropical nature . Days in Phu Quoc are spent sunbathing on sandy beaches, scootering around fishing villages, visiting pearl and pepper farms, and, if you’re up for it, trekking to waterfalls.

An island that’s famous for its seafood, don’t miss an opportunity to try out Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce (nuoc mam) – you can even visit one of the fish sauce factories while you’re here!

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Tucked away in the Quang Binh Province in Vietnam’s Central Coast region, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the most picturesque parts of the country. With a steadfast reputation as a filming location for 2017 Kong: Skull Island, and with a nearby international airport, the national park is more popular than ever before.

Opened to the public in 2010, the appeal of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the escape from the city. Here, you’ll live life in the slow lane as you cycle through Kong jungles at your own pace.

Home to 400 million-year-old karst mountains, there are hundreds of caves and secretive rivers to explore. The Son Doong Cave is a must visit. Home to its very own hidden jungle, microclimate, and Underground River, it’s one of the largest caves on Earth .

Due to its location near the Laos border, access to the park is strictly controlled, and visitors can expect to find a strong military presence here. This is mainly due to its war history – the park has some of the world’s highest numbers of undetonated bombs, which is why visitors can only visit this place with a licensed tour guide.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh, formerly known as Saigon , is the biggest city in all of Vietnam. It’s also the old capital of the Republic of Vietnam. When Saigon fell to the north in 1975, it was renamed to HCMC, yet its former name is still used today, particularly when describing the beating heart of the city.

Hoi Chi Minh has a bit of everything – temples, museums, parks, and tourist shopping. Whatever your interests, you’ll find something to do here. Head to the top of the Saigon Skydeck for an astonishing 360-degree view of the city – especially impressive at night when the lights twinkle on below.

History buffs should not miss the chance to explore the mysterious network of the Cu Chi tunnels , the headquarters for many military operations during the Vietnam War.

The five stories of Reunification Palace – also known as the Independence Palace – is also a fascinating place to go. It’s a famous spot in Vietnam’s history as it captures the time when Saigon fell as a tank broke through the gates of the palace. A replica of this same tank can be seen on the grass outside the palace.

If you’re curious to learn more about the war, you’ll enjoy a visit to the War Remnants Museum or the Museum of Vietnamese History.

7. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta, nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam,’ is a lush network of waterways in Vietnam known for its excellent nutrient-rich soils and diverse ecosystems – the banks are a veritable patchwork of fruit, vegetables, rice plantations and cattle farms that provide sustenance for more than a third of the country.

This impressive stretch of river frontage is the most biodiverse in the world if you don’t count the Amazon. Taking up much of the south of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is an extraordinary place filled with lily pad waterways, rice paddies, mangroves, and enchanting wildlife.

With plenty of bus connections and motorbikes, tourists can explore the Mekong Delta and its towns like Tra Vinh , which is considered one of the prettiest villages of the delta. A boat trip down the tranquil tributaries and mangroves of the Mekong is an unforgettable experience.

Paddled by a local in a wooden canoe, you’ll be able to witness everyday life on the river, passing farmlands, fruit orchards, monkey bridges, water buffalo, and floating markets . The best time to visit the Mekong is during the dry season between December and May when there’s less chance of flooding.

6. Nha Trang

If it’s beaching you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam, with a laidback atmosphere and exceptional scuba diving. While it’s certainly not on the same scale as many of Asia’s other beautiful beaches , Nha Trang offers warm water and some picturesque offshore islets.

The promenade that encircles the beachfront is always a hive of activity, filled with parks and sculptures that make a stroll here interesting. As with most beach resorts, most of the activity gets going when the sun goes down, and Nha Trang is no different. You’ll find a host of vibey bars and restaurants near the beachfront.

There’s much more to Nha Trang than sunbathing and strolls, though. Go for a soak in the Thap Ba Mud Bath or take a ride on the longest cross-sea cable car in the world. The sacred Po Nagar Cham towers, dating back to the 7th to 12th centuries, offer a taste of the city’s history – they’re an active religious site for Cham, Chinese, and Buddhists even today.

Tracing the border with China, Sapa is a captivating remote town in the Hoang Lien Son mountains of northern Vietnam. Its elevation 1,500 meters above sea level is nothing to scoff at when you’re trekking the terraced hills and slopes around this high-altitude mountain town. While there’s plenty of natural beauty to tempt you to this far-reached corner of the country, much of Sapa’s appeal lies in its raw and authentic culture.

Days are spent trekking through rice paddies , rural villages untouched by tourism, and the clouds of Fansipan – Vietnam’s highest peak.

Scenery aside, the highlight is hands down the opportunity to chat with these fascinating people along the way – local kids will tag along and try to sell you some of their handmade jewelry or simply try to improve their English by speaking to you.

In the town of Sapa itself, there are attractive French colonial sites worth visiting such as the Gothic church, the town square and city hall. Sapa is a major market town where the various ethnic tribes in the area often gather to sell their handicrafts, which make excellent souvenirs. At the Sapa Culture Museum, visitors can learn all about the history and cultures of these ethnic groups.

Hue – formerly known as the Panduranga of Cham Kingdom – was once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Located in the central region, Hue had a huge role to play in the Vietnam War. Captured by the Viet Cong for a total of 24 days, thousands of people were killed here if they were thought to be sympathizers of the south.

Today, the city is split in two by the Perfume River. The old city with its ancient ruined citadel lies to the north and the modern-day city to the south. The Demilitarized Zone, which marks the official former border, is one of the most popular day trips from Hue while the Thien Mu Pagoda is the city’s official symbol.

Of the city’s monuments , the Citadel is the most famous. Once the seat of the Nguyen emperors, the Citadel is a sprawling complex of grand palaces, ornate temples, walls and gates. Prime attractions within the Citadel are the Forbidden Purple City, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Ngo Mon Gate. Another important landmark on the river is the city’s official symbol, the Thien Mu Pagoda.

A stroll along the promenade is also recommended, through the statue-abundant parks and onwards by scooter or boat cruise to the Tombs of the Emperors on the outskirts of the city. Dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, the Tomb of Tu Doc, with its striking Buddhist architecture is the cherry on top.

Laidback and charismatic with a charm all of its own, Hoi An is the highlight of any Vietnam itinerary. Located south of Da Nang within cycling distance of some excellent warm-water beaches along the central coast, this atmospheric old town is a feast of color, where bright and cheerful lanterns adorn each and every building.

The narrow, winding lanes of the old town are lined with beautiful historic buildings, Chinese temples and wooden-fronted shops with excellent opportunities for retail therapy. The bustling night market and lantern-lit streets are also great places for shopping and people-watching.

At the same time, you can also take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River or join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Wrangle a tempting spa deal, and get a dress or tailored suit handmade for you at one of the town’s many illustrious tailors.

Don’t leave without a visit to the gorgeous Japanese Covered Bridge and the glaze-roofed Chinese merchant houses that date back hundreds of years and house a quarter of the town’s population. There’s plenty to fill your afternoons in Hoi An.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is truly chaotic, but that’s all part of its charm. An interesting mix of French and Sino-Vietnamese influences, it’s one of the most rapidly growing cities in Southeast Asia.

Those visiting this energetic capital should be prepared. It’s a hive of activity at the best of times, utter chaos at the worst – a city where crossing the road could be taking your life into your own hands with cars, motorbikes, and tuk-tuks vying for right of way in a city without road rules.

One of the best places to experience the madness of Hanoi is at Legend’s Corner . The well-located Legend Beer restaurant is the ideal spot to sit with a drink and watch the rush hour insanity just before sunset. You’ll see pedestrians, dogs, cars, tuk-tuks, and scooters all entwined in traffic, yet somehow there are very few accidents.

Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets filled with charming colonial architecture, street vendors, and bustling markets. The best way to explore it is on foot or by cyclo (cycle rickshaw). This will enable you to soak up its atmosphere and discover hidden gems like the ancient Temple of Literature or the vibrant Dong Xuan Market.

1. Ha Long Bay

Located about 130 km (80 miles) east of Hanoi in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is celebrated for its gorgeous emerald-hue waters, thousands of spectacular limestone karsts, astonishing waterside caves, and beautiful tree-topped islands.

It’s a popular location for adventure – scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing can all be enjoyed in and around Cat Ba National Park . For those who wish to simply relax and enjoy the views, there are numerous Halong Bay cruises to choose from, from basic to top-level luxury.

The thousands of islands scattered about the bay are a real mixture, ranging from isolated landmasses home to free-roaming monkeys and antelope to bigger inhabited islands with some fantastic beaches . Boat cruises are the best way to experience the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay.

With hundreds of boats ranging from traditional Chinese junks to luxury cruisers, boat tours can vary from day trips to multiple-night journeys . These tours often provide meals, nightlife activities and excursion stops where islands, caves and lagoons can be explored. Most boat cruises are arranged either from Hanoi or from ports such as Haiphong, Halong City and Cai Rong.

As with most holidays on the water, Halong Bay is easily affected by the weather. Plan your trip between March and June to get the most out of your visit. June to September is the off-season, so you can usually get some great deals – just be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast as monsoons can really put a dampener on your trip.

Map of Places to Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam Travel Video

Share this post:.

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

11 Most Amazing Hotels in Vietnam

10 Most Underrated Destinations in Vietnam

12 Most Beautiful National Parks in Vietnam

10 Best Beaches in Vietnam

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Vietnam: DIY Itinerary

10 Best Vietnam Luxury Resorts

17 Best Cities to Visit in Vietnam

10 Most Beautiful Islands in Vietnam

23 Top Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

Reader interactions.

September 15, 2019 at 1:19 am

I hereby compose a key-word list of outstanding places in Vietnam. Hope it’s helpful for you guys searching.

1. Islands: Côn Đảo ; Phú Quốc ; Lý Sơn, Cam Ranh, Bình Ba, Bình Hưng, Điệp Sơn ,Đảo Yến Hòn Nội, ,Cù lao Chàm , Đảo Nam Du, Hòn ông đảo cá voi, Cát bà.

2. Best beaches on islands Bãi Nhát ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Suối Nóng ( Côn Đảo ), Hòn Cao ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Sao ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi Khem ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi ông Lăng ( Phu Quoc ) , Nam Du ( Phu Quoc ), Dao Be ( Ly son ) , Bai Kinh ( Binh Hung), Bai Nom ( Binh Ba ),

3. Coastal Cities : Ha Long, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Quy Nhon, Vung Tau.

4. Best beaches on coastal cities: Doc Let, Dai Lanh, My Khe, Nha Trang, Ky Co, Bãi Binh Tien, Bãi Cà ná, Bãi bắc beach da nang, quy nhon beach.

5. Best Bays Ha Long Bay, Lang Co bay, Nha Trang bay, Ninh Van bay, Van Phong bay, Cam Ranh bay.

6. Highland cities/town offer great mountain views, trekking activities : Sapa, Da Lat, Ha Giang, Cao bang.

7. Ancient cities/towns : Hoi An, Dong Van, Hue

8. Caves: Phong Nha, Thien duong, Son Doong, Hang En, Hang Sung Sot, Hang Va, He thong hang dong Tu Lan, Tam Coc bich dong

9. Rivers Mekong delta, Sông Ngô Đồng, Tràng An, Sông đáy chùa hương, Sông Son, Sông Nho Quế, Sông Chày.

10. Waterfall Thác Bản Giốc, Thác Voi, Thác Pongour

11. Lakes Hồ Ba bể, Hồ Xuân Hương, Hồ Tuyền Lâm, Hồ Tơ Nưng, Hồ Lắk, Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, Hồ Thác Bà, Phá Tam Giang.

12. Lagoons Pha Tam Giang, Đầm Vân Long.

13. National Parks Phong Nha ke bang, Nam Cát Tiên, Bạch Mã, Cúc Phương, Ba Vì, Ba Bể, Tràm Chim Tam Nông, núi chúa.

14. Terraces rice field Mù Căng Chải, Hoàng Su Phì, Tú Lệ , Sapa, Y Tý, Bát Xát, Pù Luông.

Enjoy your traveling trip!

May 1, 2019 at 2:46 am

I like Vietnam. I really do. I love their culture and traditions. Just recently I went on a trip to Vietnam and I absolutely loved it. The people there were so nice and lovely. The wildlife, vegetation and sacred places were amazing too. But I have to say, the most beautiful place that I went to in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay. The scene was incredibly stunning! I also stayed in Sapa. It has astonishing views. Especially when you look at it from a distance. It has fog surrounding the buildings, has tall mountains in the background and has brightly coloured buildings. It’s breathtakingly beautiful!

March 3, 2019 at 1:49 am

I am a Vietnamese and according to my experience, there are two places you should visit when you are in Vietnam: Cat Ba Island in the Northeast Vietnam and Phu Quoc Island in the Southeast Vietnam.

March 29, 2018 at 9:26 pm

The market in Can Cau is fabulous.

November 21, 2017 at 10:29 pm

I think these places are amazing to visit but I have a question, how is Vietnam in general? Is it a safe country to visit ??

November 8, 2017 at 8:19 am

I recommend Pu Luong nature reserve, not very far from Hanoi.

September 19, 2017 at 4:52 pm

I really liked Da Nang.

November 23, 2016 at 4:13 am

Great list. I have just spent two months in Vietnam and did most of the places except My Son and Sapa. Will come back for that. Love this country!

July 21, 2015 at 2:04 pm

There are lots of day trip activities from Hoi An– snorkeling or diving at the Cham Islands, early morning cycling trips to the countryside, visiting the My Son archeological ruins. Hoi An also has terrific food, and is a great place to wander around and explore.

June 2, 2015 at 6:46 am

There are at-least 30 incredible places to visit in Vietnam, your list is correct those are about the top places but there are alot more amazing places in Vietnam and no one should stop at just 10

November 7, 2014 at 4:11 am

Great places. You can also put Ninh Binh and Ha Giang.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Team Wanderlust | 20 March 2022

17 of the best things to do in vietnam.

Discover our pick of favourite things to do in the dazzling Halong Bay, vibrant cities Hoi An, Hue and Ho Chi Minh City, the rural north and beyond...

1. Light a lantern in Hoi An

Lanterns in Hoi An (Dreamstime)

Every Tết (Vietnamese New Year), Hoi An is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour and light for its Lantern Festival. The celebration lasts for seven days, with the road from Hoi An Bridge to the Hoai River Square adorned with thousands of colourful lanterns.

Over 50 workshops take part in the event, each trying to create the prettiest lantern. The colours are bright and the designs are strictly traditional.

The heart of the festivities is in the old town, between the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Cau An Hoi Bridge. It’s crowded, chaotic and festive, with spontaneous singing and food stalls at every turn. It is as much a celebration for locals as it is for visitors.

The most breathtaking sight is thousands of lanterns floating on the river; hire a sampan boat to get a closer look . For a small sum, you can buy a lantern and set it afloat too.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it to Hoi An for New Year: smaller lantern festivals are held every full moon.

Why Hoi An is the best city on Earth

2. visit halong bay and its equally spectacular neighbour.

Halong Bay (Dreamstime)

With 1,600 limestone towers rising from its turquoise waters, Halong Bay is rightly considered one of Vietnam’s most beautiful spots. As a result, i t’s on every visitor's list – and hundreds of boats offer cruise trips every day. The bay is huge, but it can still feel crowded.

Bai Tu Long Bay, just a few miles away, offers the same jaw-dropping scenery but sees only a fraction of the visitors. Here, you can explore uncrowded caves and tiny beaches, and feast on super-fresh succulent seafood.

Boat trips to Bai Tu Long Bay leave from the crowded dock at Halong City, just like the ones to Halong Bay . But you'll head off in the opposite direction, to where the islands are a little less taller and a little more spread out – but, according to locals, are just like what those in Halong Bay used to be like.

Find out how to see Halong Bay without the crowds

3. hike through cat ba island.

Ngu Lam Peak, the end point of a popular Cat Ba hiking trail (Shutterstock)

You can't go wrong with a visit to Cat Ba Island. The views are spectacular, and the nearby Lan Ha Bay is a brilliant Halong alternative - another breathtakingly beautiful bay, without the tourist masses.

It's USP? The hiking, says Wanderlust 's Rosie Fitzgerald . Enjoy trekking through the pristine rainforest that makes up the vast national park. The Lookout Tower Trail is a popular and fairly easy hike. Walk upwards for around an hour, until you come out at a rusted shelter, from where you can appreciate just how untouched Cat Ba really is.

If you want more, venture up a little further to reach the stunning Ngu Lam Peak. It's worth the effort to look out over the jagged, green mountains that blur out into the distance.

For more of a challenge, book a guide and embark on the Cang Viet Hai Trail – an 18km, undulating trail that requires a good fitness level. Prepare to climb steep, slippery paths and scramble over thick knots of tree routes that block the path.

More amazing things to do on Cat Ba Island

4. cruise the mekong delta.

The Mekong River's famous floating markets (Shutterstock)

After travelling over 4,000km from the Tibetan Himalaya, the Mekong hits Vietnam and slows down to a more languid pace. With islands, rice paddies, stilted villages and a way of life that hasn’t changed for centuries, it’s as if the river wants to take it easy and soak up the view.

Hitch a ride with a cargo boat and you can do exactly that. Simply find a shady spot to hitch your hammock and gaze at faraway riverbanks as your boat, weighed down with fruit and rice sacks, ploughs the treacly brown flow.

Or, take one of the many commercial cruises that ply parts of the river. The cruise from Cai Be to Can Tho is a great way to experience a night on the river. As you travel southwards along the Mang Thit River linking the Tien Giang and Bassac systems, the channel becomes so narrow that you can peer into the riverbank’s rickety stilted houses.

The best routes for your Mekong cruise

5. drop into the world’s largest cave in phong nha national park.

Hang Son Doong Cave (Shutterstock)

Quang Binh province is a wild region of barely penetrable jungle in Vietnam’s skinny middle, close to the border with Laos. The area is riddled with hundreds of deep caves, including one of the largest in the world – Hang Son Doong. It contains a cavern so tall that a skyscraper could fit inside it.

The small town of Phong Nha is the epicentre for the area’s caving adventures, its eponymous cave another UNESCO-listed wonder well worth exploring. Here, you can hire both the guides and the gear you’ll need to descend into the caves.

If going underground doesn’t appeal, the area is also famous for trekking. The surrounding jungle is peppered with stunning waterfalls and an active (and noisy) population of monkeys and flying foxes.

6. Visit the coffee-making heartland, Buon Ma Thuot

The World Coffee Museum in Buon Ma Thuot (Shutterstock)

Buon Ma Thuot is the regional capital of the central highlands of Vietnam, a gorgeous area of thundering waterfalls and the traditional villages of the local Ede people. Look out for stilted structures reached by a ladder and marked by carved breasts. In this fiercely matriarchal area, they can only be used by the women of the house.

Buon Ma Thuot is also the heart of Vietnam’s thriving coffee industry. The Trung Nguyen coffee company is the big player here, and there’s not a corner of paddy field or industrial zone in the area that doesn’t bear their logo.

In the city itself, there are plenty of coffee-related attractions. Visitors can learn about the country's and the world's coffee industries in the World Coffee Museum year-round. In March 2023, the city's various coffee venues will be offering freebies to celebrate the local produce, during the biennial Coffee Festival.

You'll probably come across 'weasel' coffee during your visit, also known as kopi luwak or civet coffee, which aficionados claim is the best in the world. While many believe its unique taste is excellent, it's worth knowing that recent investigations have found unethical animal welfare practices on coffee farms across the region.

Top tip: "If you can’t visit the coffee heartland, be sure to taste a Vietnamese egg coffee while you’re in Hanoi," says Wanderlust 's executive director Jackie Scully. "I loved the Note coffee house right by the main lake in the capital. Covered in uplifting post-its from travellers from across the world, it was more than just a caffeine boost."

7. Search for Vietnam’s best pho in Hanoi

Vietnamese pho (Dreamstime)

Pho is a Vietnamese staple – a quick, tasty meal made from four simple ingredients: clear stock, boiled beef, rice noodles and herbs or green onions. In Vietnam, you’ll find it served on street corners and in upscale restaurants, as well as in every family home.

Hanoi has gained a reputation as the pho capital of Vietnam. Every restaurant here boasts a secret recipe. Take your time searching for the best – that's part of the fun! But if you want our advice? Head to Lo Duc in the French Quarter and sit yourself down at Pho Thin.

This unassuming pho house, with wooden benches and laminated tables, does things a little differently – such as stir-frying the beef in garlic before adding it to the soup. Local foodies insist it gives the pho an unusual smokiness, one you won't found in other restaurants. Pho Thin is always packed, but once you're inside, you'll know it was worth the wait.

8. Understand Vietnam’s bloody past in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City Museum, located in the Gia Long Palace (Shutterstock)

More than 60% of Vietnam’s population was born after the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. But that doesn’t mean its war-torn history is ignored. As a nation, Vietnam has moved on, but the sacrifices made by both sides of the conflict are still remembered all over the country, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City Museum has many informative exhibitions, and explains the country's bloody past through photographs, artefacts and memorabilia. It's sensitively done, without glossing over the atrocities, and (rather ironically) is housed in the Gia Long Palace, where Ngo Dinh Diem spent his final hours in power before his assassination in 1963.

The War Remnants Museum is a more grisly – but equally essential – reminder of local atrocities. From eerie bomb remnants and first-person accounts by war veterans to a bloodied guillotine and photographs of horrific napalm burns, this is a chilling reminder of life not-too-long ago.

9. Go to church, Vietnamese-style

Worshippers inside Cao Dai temple (Shutterstock)

Tây Ninh, a busy town on the Mekong Delta, is perhaps the most unlikely holy city on the planet. Here, amongst the busy streets stalls and noisy traffic sits Cao Dai Temple, the Holy See of the Cao Dai religion.

Caodaism is a Vietnamese hybrid religion founded in the 1920s. It fuses Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism, occult and Islam with the ultimate aim to break free of the cycle of life and death. The sect reveres, among others: Jesus, Buddha, Mohammed and even French novelist Victor Hugo.

From a distance, the temple’s towers resemble a parochial church. But closer inspection reveals an eclectic facade with sword-brandishing gods, swastikas, a Communist red star and an Orwellian all-seeing eye.

Prayers are conducted four times a day, with the one at noon popular with day-trippers from Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam's 7 most beautiful temples

10. cycle around hue.

Cyclo drivers in Hue (Dreamstime)

Halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Hue marked the divide between the north and the south during the Vietnam War. Set upon the pretty Perfume River, it has always played an important part in Vietnamese history and is dotted with important historical sites.

It is also a great place to cycle. Set off in the cool of the morning and head three kilometres out of town to the Tiger Fighting arena. It was Vietnam’s version of the Colosseum, a place where elephants and tigers would fight to honour the strength of the monarchy. Next, head to Tu Duc Tomb before reaching Vong Canh Hill – the best spot for panoramic views of the Perfume River.

From Vong Canh Hill, it’s downhill to one of Hue's most atmospheric pagodas, Tu Hieu, which is located in a tranquil and picturesque pine forest. Swing by the tomb of Minh Mang, the second emperor of the Nguyen dynasty, before heading back to town.

Upon reaching the walled fortress of the Imperial Citadel, you have two choices: take a leisurely cycle through the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Vietnam's version of the Forbidden City, or enjoy a relaxing drink next to the Perfume River.

Sound too much like hard work? You find any number of cyclo drivers nearby to do all the effort for you.

11. Find romance at Sapa’s love market

H'mong women at a market in Sapa (Dreamstime)

The market town of Sapa, in Vietnam’s mountainous north, first became popular as a French hill station in the 1930s. Set on a 1,650m-high mountain ridge, the town boasts fabulous views of the Hoang Lien Mountains and a colourful market attended by hill tribes from the surrounding countryside every Saturday.

The town has become increasingly popular with tourists, but there are still old traditions hidden in its secret corners. One of those is the Love Market, where Dao (and H’mong) men and women come from miles around to sing songs of love to each other. It was originally held at the end of trading at the Saturday markets, but over-zealous visitors taking intrusive photos has driven the tradition underground.

The Love Market still exists, but now it takes place in secret locations in the dead of night, well away from the gaze of visitors. But if your interest is genuine and you can find a local willing to trust you, the romance can still be found.

12. Sail past the Tam Coc rice fields

The Ngo Dong River and rice fields in Ninh Binh (Shutterstock)

In 2014, the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex in the northern Vietnam's Ninh Binh province was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No wonder to anyone who has seen it with their own eyes: dramatic limestone karsts and sweeping, deep green valleys, often with boats floating along the Red River Delta.

The village of Tam Cốc-Bích Động (often referred to simple as 'Tam Coc') falls under this complex, and its famous rice paddies enjoy the same UNESCO-listed status. Undoubtedly, the best way to experience them to take a slow, languorous boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, admiring the otherworldly view as you go.

Getting to Tam Coc is easier than ever. Admittedly, the area has become more popular with visitors in recent years - for good reason. Buses and trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh take about three hours, while organised day tours and two-day trips are available, if you'd prefer to take the pressure off planning your excursion.

However you get there, you'll want to spend at least a day here, if not longer, advises Wanderlust 's Jackie Scully. "Head to Hang Múa while you're in the Ninh Binh province and you'll be rewarded for climbing the 486 stone steps with an amazing viewpoint. Go early to avoid the heat."

13. Spot rare primates in Cat Tien National Park

Primates hanging out in Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam (Shutterstock)

Cat Tien National Park in southern Vietnam is a wildlife lover's dream: a 720 sq km biosphere reserve, comprised of botanical gardens and lowland forest, offering an abundance of rare creatures and birdlife, all kept safe and sheltered in a number of sanctuaries and rescue centres.

Golden-cheeked gibbons, silvered langurs and native pygmy lorsies are among the rare primates to be spotted in Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre. Cat Tien Bear Sanctuary homes tens of sun bears.

Asian elephants and clouded leopards are also among the rare sightings wildlife watchers have recorded in Cat Tien. Birders will have their hands full, too, with Asian barred owlet, blue-rumped and bar-bellied pittas, and orange-necked partridge sightings - just to name a few - very possible.

Some of the park's animal residents come alive when the sky goes dark, so if you're hoping for a unique wildlife encounter in Vietnam, consider staying the night in one of Cat Tien's homestays or hotel accommodation, and embark on a nighttime drive.

An added bonus? Those on a day trip will be zipping back to Ho Chi Minh City by then, which is approximately three hours and 30 minutes away by car, so you'll have more of the park to yourself.

14. Marvel at Ban Gioc Waterfall

The magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall (Shutterstock)

Ban Gioc is the name of not one, but two colliding waterfalls along the Quay Son River - an iconic way to mark the Vietnam-China border, in the Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang on Vietnam's side, and Daxin County, Guangxi on China's.

Here, you'll be taking in one of South-East Asia's most breathtaking natural sights. Its sheer size (70m tall, and 208m wide) is marvel-worthy in itself, but the way the falls cascade down its rocky, limestone face is most eyecatching. If you're up for a climb, it is possible to trek up to the 'falls high points, as long as you're equipped with the appropriate walking gear.

Once you've soaked up the immense views, there's plenty to see and do in the Cao Bang region, which sits high up in the mountainous north-east of the country. Caves to explore, local homestays to experience, and more majestic waterfalls beckon.

15. Admire the Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang

The Golden Hands Bridge in the Ba Na Hills, Da Nang (Shutterstock)

Have you ever seen a bridge quite like this one? The Golden Bridge (or Golden Hands Bridge, or Giant Hands Bridge) in the Da Nang province is one of a kind.

Pedestrians can stroll across the 150m-long pathway, high above the gorgeous greenery of the seemingly-endless Ba Na Hills, and feel like they're being held in the sky by two humongous, God-like stone hands. As it happens, the stone hands are not held up by God himself, but by a sturdy st eel frame and fibreglass.

The reality-warping structure was created to attract more visitors to the Da Nang region, and surely no-one can refute its social media success. There are well over 124,000 images of the bridge on the #GoldenBridge hashtag alone.

If you went to Vietnam and you didn't post a picture of the Golden Hands Bridge on your Instagram page, did your trip even happen at all?!

16. Embrace tranquility on Phu Quoc Island

A peaceful beach on Phu Quoc Island (Shutterstock)

Off the coast of Cambodia lies the idyllic Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc: a haven for travellers hoping to get away from the hustle and bustle of Vietnam's cities.

There's no shortage of things to see and do on Phu Quoc. Wildlife lovers can head to Vinpearl Safari Care and Conservation Park, to meet, elephants, white Bengal tigers, macaques and silver langurs, among others. Head out into nature, with a hike through the dense forests of Phu Quoc National Park, and admiring the gentle trickle of Suoi Tranh Waterfall.

Once you're all walked out, ride in the incredibly long cable car to Hon Thom Nature Park, or sit back and relax on the pristine white sands of Sao Beach, Ong Lang or remote Khem Beach. Surrounded by palm trees and forest, you'll feel like you're sitting on the edge of paradise.

17. Live with the locals in Mai Chau

A local in the Mai Chau Valley village of Lac (Shutterstock)

Go beyond the tourist trail to the rural north-western province of Hòa Bình. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Mai Chau Valley, enclosed in mountains and skirted by rice fields. A 'hidden gem', if we ever saw one.

To get a small sense of everyday life in this part of the country, stay with a local, White Tai family in a homestay. Your best bet is one of two villages: Lac or Poom Coong. Whichever you choose, you'll be waking up to the site of rice paddies and the unbelievably-green Vietnamese countryside each morning. The Vietnamese Tourist Board highly recommends choosing your homestay near Hieu, for its idyllic scenery.

Once you're settled, it's time to appreciate the White Tai community's way of life. Cycle through Mai Chau on a rented bike, or pop to the markets to purchase exquisitely-bright, locally-woven textiles. If you can take your eyes off your village's natural wonders, a day trip to the glistening, under-appreciated Hoa Binh Lake makes for an excellent trek.

Keep reading about Vietnam and beyond:

Alternative places to visit in vietnam, le vietnam tours to book now 10 of the best things to do in thailand, the best things to do in cambodia, related articles, looking for inspiration.

Join our newsletter

Get the very best of Wanderlust by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.

Accessibility Links

12 best places to visit in Vietnam on your next trip

Enjoy hanoi and halong bay — then step beyond the tourist trail to find more magic in the highlands, islands, history and culture of this captivating nation.

W ith 99 million souls and a coastline that wrinkles 2,000 miles along the country from north to south, there are plenty of people to meet and a lot to see, do and eat in Vietnam. I first visited in 2004 and have returned many times since. It’s easy to follow the tourist trail of historic Hanoi, ethereal Halong Bay, shopping emporium Hoi An and buzzy Ho Chi Minh City, but push a little further and you’ll be rewarded with some dazzling and memorable experiences.

Mine have been when I’ve gone the extra mile, quite literally: a magical three-day cruise to the outer battlements of Halong Bay; a thrilling motorbike trip through the sugarloaf peaks and beyond in remote mountainous Ha Giang; meeting the last wild elephant catcher in Yok Don National Park. Taking in the elaborate mausoleums and sites of Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty deepened my understanding; sighting the endemic, critically endangered Cat Ba langur on Cat Ba island was exciting; and I loved exploring the history, food and pristine beaches of Con Dao island. And of course the irresistible, fragrant food, delicious coffee, craft cocktails and beer will lead you everywhere.

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

If you only have . . .

One week Hanoi, a boat trip to Halong Bay and the rice fields of the Mai Chau Valley

Two weeks After Hanoi, Halong Bay and Mai Chau, hop on trains and domestic flights to visit imperial Hue, the DMZ, the ruins of My Son, gorgeous Hoi An and energetic Ho Chi Minh City

Three weeks Take in Ha Giang in the far north, Dalat in the Central Highlands or the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a beach break, and a boat trip along the Mekong Delta or a couple of days on remote Con Dao island

A tight budget Balance domestic flights with long-distance train journeys and Vietnam’s excellent network of hop-on hop-off “open tickets” on air-conditioned minibuses

Street food vendors in the night markets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Hanoi is noisy, traffic-choked and beautiful all at once. The thousand-year-old city of lakes, founded on a bend of the Red River, is full of history, charm, museums, shops, markets and wonderful street food. Don’t miss the Old Quarter, the heart of the city, where you’ll find lots of food, hotels and temples cheek-by-jowl with shops. Learn how to dodge the motorbikes while on a street-food tour or exploring the ochre-hued French colonial villas, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the “Hanoi Hilton” prison museum of Hoa Lo and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Make it happen

The Sofitel Legend Metropole is where Graham Greene stayed in 1951 while working for Paris Match . It’s the city’s top address and is elegant throughout

Exodus’ 14-day Vietnam Adventure takes in two full days in Hanoi with a comprehensive city tour

2. Ha Giang

Ha Giang is Vietnam ’s northernmost region, pushing up against the border with China. It’s an otherworldly landscape of sugarloaf peaks, mountain passes and rice paddies carved into impossibly steep mountains. Find villages of Red Dzao, Flower Hmong and other local minorities, markets, eco-stays and a window into a rural world of timeless traditions such as weaving. Don’t miss the palace of the Hmong king who raked in revenue from opium farming. En route, stop at the dazzling rice paddy region of Mu Cang Chai.

Panhou Retreat, up in the mountains, is a peaceful nature resort with bungalows dotted amid the trees, a spa, and hot springs

Inside Asia’s 11-day Vietnam’s Northern Soul is an in-depth exploration of the region taking in trekking, rice paddies, tea terraces, markets and visits to remote villages

insideasiatours.com

3. Pu Luong and Mai Chau

A visitor takes a photo in the terraces of Pu Luong

Not too far from Hanoi are these idyllic retreats found amid neon-green rice paddies. At Pu Luong nature reserve, with its homestays and eco-retreats, trek past the paddies and orchards of the Muong people and cruise down a river on a traditional bamboo raft in a landscape woven with traditional water wheels. This area is home to rare Asian black bear, Owston’s palm civet and endangered Delacour’s langur. North is the exceptionally beautiful Mai Chau Valley, a serene landscape carved in rice paddies. Stay at the lovely Avana Retreat, built by local Hmong, White Thai and Black Thai people.

Avana Retreat is built and staffed by local people. Its beautiful thatched rooms blend with the rippling contours of rice paddies

G Adventures’ 11-day Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay and trekking Pu Luong tour is one of few that takes in trekking in Pu Luong, an overnight stay, and a barbecue lunch made by local chefs

4. Bai Tu Long Bay, Halong Bay

Boats — from junks to elegant luxury vessels — cruise through the waters of Unesco-protected Halong Bay, which is studded with thousands of craggy limestone outcrops. It’s an ethereal landscape and with each turn of weather can bring dense fog or crisp blue skies. It won’t matter — it’s all enchanting. To make the most of it, head out on a boat for at least two nights to cruise to the outer “fortress” of towers — Bai Tu Long Bay. It’s more magical and it escapes the crowds of one-day and one-night boats.

Bhaya’s Au Co Cruise sails to the outer reaches of the silent bay with wonderful close-up views, smart bedrooms and delicious, artfully presented cuisine

Audley’s 19-day Classic Vietnam tour includes two nights on the Paradise Sails boat exploring the limestone stacks and coves of the outer limits of the bay

audleytravel.com

5. Hue and the DMZ

Hue was the cultural and political power base of the Nguyen emperors, Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty. They built a citadel, gilded in bronze, enamel and lacquer, with gates for themselves, elephants and their minions, based on the Forbidden City of Beijing. They lived in extravagant regal splendour surrounded by concubines and eunuchs. And they fashioned their last resting places, all gothic-meets-Confucius and geomantic in design, landscaped with streams, statues and elaborate graves that trace the serpentine route of Hue’s Perfume River. This city is often overlooked in favour of Hoi An as a central Vietnam stop, but don’t miss it. The thousand-plus dishes of the imperial household are still eaten, too. From here, explore the Demilitarized Zone marking the border established in 1954 between the communist north and the US-backed south.

Pilgrimage Village Boutique and Spa is an exquisite address just outside the historic centre of Hue. Think garden rooms, leafy plots, a spa and a perfect oblong pool

Original Travel’s 12-day An intro to Vietnam, North to South includes an in-depth tour of Hue’s imperial past as well as other significant buildings

originaltravel.co.u k

6. Danang and China beach

The fire-breathing Dragon Bridge in Danang

China beach, an 18-mile curve of golden sand along the sea, was made famous by thousands of American GIs who would sunbathe here for R&R during the Vietnam War. Today, it’s more fabulous, with some top hotel retreats, such as the Four Seasons and, hidden amid the forest of monkeys on a small peninsula, the outstanding InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula designed by Asia-based architect Bill Bensley. But there’s more — the incomparable Museum of Cham Sculpture with its beautiful carved sandstone works, the nearby Unesco-protected ruins of My Son, the spiritual capital of the Cham, an Indianised culture, and Danang’s fire-breathing Dragon Bridge.

Architect Bill Bensley has weaved his magic on the glamorous InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula. Come for the cute funicular, the pool villas and the restaurant

Explore’s 14-day Inside Vietnam is one of few tours taking in the Cham museum, the My Son ruins and an optional visit to My Lai, site of a wartime massacre

• Five of the best backpacking routes in southeast Asia

Yes, it’s touristy, but that’s because it’s gorgeous. The ancient port of Hoi An is filled with Chinese temples, large merchant houses, and hundreds of tailors and craft shops. One-storey ochre-coloured homes line the small lantern-lit streets along the Unesco-protected town’s Thu Bon river. Come for the atmosphere, tailor-made clothes, and the delicious street food including some tantalising local dishes. Nearby An Bang beach provides downtime, too.

The Four Seasons Nam Hai is a sublime beachfront property. Large, gorgeous villas dot the peaceful gardens, where pools and coconut palms facing the sea

Wendy Wu’s 12-day Vietnam at a Glance ensures time spent immersed in Hoi An, meeting artisans and visiting a farming village — plus plenty left for tailoring

8. Ninh Van Bay

Ninh Van Bay is a divine little hideaway close to the major seaside resort of Nha Trang. Escape from the city to this peninsula, just north, for some serious beach time. An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay is dreamy with a boho vibe, while Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is on a sublime stretch of sand with villas tucked away between and behind huge boulders. It’s just you, the beach, the restaurant and your butler at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. The waterfalls and forests of the peninsula can be explored too.

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a barefoot getaway with villas and their private pools perched on huge biscuit-coloured boulders facing the sea. It’s boho, supremely beautiful and comes with butler service

Scott Dunn’s 11-night luxury Limitless Vietnam indulges with four nights at Ninh Van Bay and organised activities

scottdunn.com

Dalat is a quirky place. A former French hill station up in the pine-scented highlands with a central lake, it’s ringed by attractive early 20th-century homes and villas (some hotels, some museums), markets, flower gardens and waterfalls. There’s even a golf course. Today, the city is filled with bars and cute cafés and is a great base from which to explore a load of kooky spots including the Crazy House homestay, cactus and coffee playground Kombi Land and a dragon statue made from thousands of glass bottles. Don’t miss checking out the French-built railway station, a Wes Anderson shoo-in.

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa is a cute little hilltop hotel fashioned from an ochre-hued villa

Intrepid Travel’s 15-day Premium Vietnam in Depth offers plenty of time to explore Dalat, its quirky sites and coffee culture

10. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh is a heady city of nine million people and eight million motorbikes. It has brilliant street food, is draped in a fantastic array of fairy lights and is fuelled by a growing craft beer, spirit and cocktail scene and a thrilling, infectious energy. What two decades ago was a fairly low-rise city has now been dwarfed by an army of high rises. Don’t miss exploring the city on the back of a motorbike, visiting the top sites, and taking a trip out to the Viet Cong tunnels at Cu Chi and the fantastically decorated Cao Dai cathedral at Tay Ninh. Sampling the food and coffee goes without saying.

The Park Hyatt Saigon isn’t the best-looking from the outside. Step inside, though, and it’s a dazzler. Its restaurants and bars are top city addresses and the lovely pool is a boon on humid days. It’s right in the heart of the city, too, just behind the opera house.

Riviera Travel’s 16-day Vietnam and Cambodia tour three night-stay in Ho Chi Minh City ensures plenty of time to take in the sites and the food and explore the tunnels at Cu Chi

11. Mekong Delta

A fruit vendor at a floating market on the Mekong Delta

The liquid fingers of the Mekong River slink through southern Vietnam into the sea. Here you’ll find a mostly rural way of life with floating markets, temples and churches, and market farms harvesting coconut, bananas, mangos and veg. It’s not so much specific sites but a dip into the region’s culture — a mix of Cham, Khmer and Vietnamese, war history (Xeo Quyt’s Viet Cong forest bunkers are fascinating), wetlands and birds, and delicious food.

The prettily illuminated, French-inspired Victoria Can Tho faces the waterfront in lush grounds on the edge of Can Tho city. You can tour the waterways and floating markets of the delta using its own boats.

On Wendy Wu’s ten-day Magnificent Mekong cruise on the eco-friendly Victoria Mekong you’ll visit floating markets and local temples, meet artisans and explore wetlands

12. Con Dao archipelago

Con Dao was once a prison island run by the French and then the Americans. Today, this remote island off the south coast of Vietnam is a nature paradise, internationally recognised (by Ramsar) wetland area and home to the most important location for nesting sea turtles in Vietnam. Hike, snorkel, dive, sunbathe on the beautiful beaches, visit the turtle sites, and watch the squid boats at work. Visit its museum and sites, too: the cemetery of Vietnamese martyrs’ graves features seats built for their ghosts. You’ll want to stay at the fabulous Six Senses Con Dao.

The remote, secluded hideaway of Six Senses Con Dao is a luxury treat. The contemporary, glassy villas with private pools are right on the sugar-soft island sands; excellent food, the spa, and snorkelling are on tap.

Black Tomato’s 14-day Ultimate Vietnam: A luxury holiday from top to tail features fabulous beach time at the end of your trip at the exquisite Six Senses Con Dao

blacktomato.com

• Best things to do in Vietnam • Best hotels in Vietnam

Backpacking in southeast Asia: everything you need to know

27 Most-EPIC Things To Do in Vietnam – Eat like a King, Sleep like a Queen and Take a Tractor to the Beach

Vietnam has earned its name as one of the most versatile and golden places to visit on earth. It has a lot to offer when it comes to the tourist attractions.

It actually has everything for everyone when it comes to likes and favorite places to visit, foods to eat, and scenery among others. It is a serene tourist destination which is envied by even the frequent travelers.

Important : You need a visa to enter Vietnam. You can check with iVisa.com which visa you need and how to get it. Here is my review on iVisa and how it works for Vietnam.

This is your guide to the best FUN things to do in Vietnam. A complete guide, a guide to see what do Vietnamese for fun, tipping, what to eat in Vietnam.

This article covers everything about Vietnam:

top things to do
10 Smart and basic Travel Tips for Vietnam
10 Things not to do in Vietnam
Shopping: 6 Things to buy (souvenirs, perks and essentials)
What to pack – a packing list
handpicked accommodations (hostels, hotels, homestays, resorts)

Insurance for Motorbiking Vietnam

Visa to vietnam, safety in vietnam.

Things to do in Vietnam in 15 days ( Itinerary ideas )
Tet Holiday in Vietnam
Full map with itinerary and sights
guide books
your questions

Update : Find 41 Best Things to do in Hanoi

Update : Read now 24 Fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City / Saigon

It is said that you cannot truly claim to have explored all what Vietnam has to offer on just one visit.

However, like any other destination, you want to explore and tour, you will need to make some serious preparations if you want to get the most out of your visit.

This is a guest article. Hostelgeeks visited as well Vietnam, and we got back with a bunch of amazing hostels. When you are planning to visit Vietnam, make sure you bookmark this article.

For the Spanish speaker and traveler, here is a full guide to Viajar a Vietnam .

Read : all the best hostels in Vietnam – for all types of travellers

1) Best Things to Do in Vietnam

Assuming that you have done your research and you know the basics already, below are the coolest things and tours you can do while in your stay.

No worries, we cover the basic tips here .

In this list we share our adventures of 3 months in Vietnam. With the fun things, the cool things and gems we found.

We share how to drive around on a motorbike, explore hidden tunnels and how a tractor took us in a shovel to a lonely beach.

1. Take your food fantasy to Hanoi

It is a haven for all the food lovers.

You can find in Hanoi the best delicacies in the country and at a cost friendly price. It is a big city which mean that there are multiple restaurants and places where you can get any type of meal you want.

If you love eating unique and tasty meals, then you need to take a tour to Hanoi. It is better if you have a tour guide to help you explore the city without much hustle while you enjoy the tasty meals which are readily affordable.

Do eat all the street food you can find in Hanoi. We loved it!

Food and Walking Tours in Hanoi

There are also plenty of Hanoi Waking Tours. Personally I love food walking tours combined. You can find great walking tours in Hanoi here .

Find more information on food tours in Hanoi here .

From pork to noodles and fish dishes, you will find all once you get to Hanoi.

Oh and psst : If you fancy a great restaurant, our absolute favorite restaurant in Hanoi is called NEW DAY in the old town.

Vegetarian Food in Hanoi

Also, Vegetarians will love the food in Hanoi. There are many many options. All over Vietnam you will find An Chay Restaurants.

Vietnam is a paradise for Vegetarians!

“ An Chay ” means Vegetarian.

Not everybody actually understands what vegetarian means, so they might want to put chicken on top of your Banh Mi, for instance. Keep an eye on it and let them know by gestures you do not want chicken on your food, for instance.

Vietnamese street sellers are happy to make you the sandwich you want.

I always stay next to them and point to the things I do not want and the thing I do want, and use some hand signals. It works well. Try it.

2. Take a Tractor to the beach (central Vietnam)

One of the most adventurous things to do in Vietnam was taking a tractor to the beach.

This is one of the super-NON-touristy things to do!

This beach we went to is North of the Mui Dinh dunes. There was a street food stall near the street. We stopped there, asked, they sent the tractor.

This is the exact location on Google Maps . Check our map with all sights and activities listed.

No, I am not kidding. This is exactly how Vietnam works!

They brought us to the beach through the Vietnamese dessert.

We agreed they will pick us up again in 2 hours. We were beaching for a bit, took amazing photos, enjoyed the ambiance. There was also a small street food shop on the beach.

Again, this is Vietnam. This is the typical Vietnam experience when you leave the beaten path!

We stayed at the Hon Co Ca Na Resorts for $35 a night .

From here we took our motorbikes along the coast line to the dunes again and then took the tractor.

The resort is super cool as well. You stay 5 meters away from the beach in huge rooms. The food int he restaurant itself was also amazing.

The guy working there became our close friend, we chatted always with him and he gave us amazing tips. So, yeah, come over here!

3. Experience wind and kitesurfing in Mui Ne

The region may paint a picture as being only a fishing destination, since it is famous for that.

However, it has a lot more to offer in terms of adventure.

Mui Ne has amazing sand dunes which you can take advantage of.

You can get your gear ready to surf with the wind and sand dunes. It is a magical experience which adds to the excitement once you tour the area. It ignites a sense of adventure and if you do not want to surf you can watch the beautiful sand dunes to make your trip worthwhile.

Important : If you are coming here by motorbike, pay attention to the police and avoid their scams.

4. Talking about Mui Ne: The Dunes

The dunes of Mui Ne are one of the top places in Vietnam.

Everybody knows about them. If you haven’t heard about it, well, you would have heard it soon enough.

The dunes in Mui Ne are super cool and you even sandboard here. Wherever you stay, a hotel, hotel or homestay, they can offer and organize the tour for you.

The dunes are about 200km East of Saigon aka. Ho Chi Minh City.

Read : 24 Fun Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Good to know : Mui Ne is known for its dunes AND the corrupt police men. When you plan to come here with your motorbike, chances are the police will stop you. And even if you have all the needed paper work, they want some money from you.

We avoided Mui Ne with the motorbike and drove around it. You can find an alternative route here .

5. Explore the Hang Son Doong cave

Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang national park, the Hang Son Doong cave is the largest known cave in the world.

Hang Son Doong cave is the largest known cave in the world.

You will be treated to a rare site in the national park where the cave is found. Tourists flock this national park to see the amazing cave which is reputable due to its size.

However, you will have to pay an entrance fee to enter the cave and experience the beauty of greatness.

Good to know: You cannot enter this cave without any guide. You HAVE to get a guide and you can even sleep here.

You can book the tour with Oxalis.com . They are specialized in this cave tour.

Bare in mind, some tours can cost up to 3000$. During these tours you actually sleep in the cave. Now, that’s definitely amazing!

6. Have a Mud Bath in Dark Cave-Hang Tối (and Zipline)

In the same area, near the enormous cave of Hang Son Doong, you find the so-called Dark Cave.

The Dark Cave is a long cave where you enter with a small group and you are armed with a helmet and a light. At the end of the Dark Cave there is a mud bath waiting for you.

It is pure fun!

The group is limited to 15 people (around about). You can also enjoy a bit of Kayaking and a tiny water park with the Dark Cave together. You start with a 400m Zipline, walk in the cave, have the bath and then enjoy the water park with zipline, water bikes and a few more fun games.

There is no need to book anything ahead of time. Just go to the Dark Dave, buy your entrance and enter.

The tour starts as soon as enough people are in.

7. Take a trip to the Hanoi and visit the Mausoleum

Hanoi has a lot to offer from art galleries to beautiful temples.

If you are a fan of architecture and historical ruins, the city of Hanoi has a lot to offer.

Visit the museums where you will get to learn about the history of the Vietnamese people enjoying the sights and scenery.

While in Hanoi, make sure you visit the corps of Ho Chi Minh. Personally, I had no idea that this is even possible.

You can enter the Mausoleum where Ho Chi Minh is placed. You can see the real dead body of him.

It looks like in the movies, very very interesting!

Many schools with young kids from all over the country visit. They hold a small ceremony, all are dressed accordingly.

You are not allowed to bring in a big camera. You can leave this free of charge outside, and can pick it up later. I did it, the camera was in perfect shape, no worries!

Inside you will find 4 soldiers, not moving at all.

Important to know : You are not allowed to take any photo. If you do, you can end up in jail! Behind the body you will see huge flags in red. One flag is the Vietnamese flag with a golden star on red background. The other one is the Sowjetunion/ Communism flag known as The Hammer and Sickle and The Red Banner.

The entrance is free.

Opening Hours:

Tuesday – Thursday: 07:30 – 10:30

Saturday and Sunday: 07:30 – 11:00

Location : 8 Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

8. See the pagodas

Get to know the religious culture of the Vietnamese.

The pagodas serve as evidence of a rich culture which is still respected in the region.

The pagodas are unique structures or buildings which are found everywhere you go within Vietnam. They are normally used as shrines by the people are which makes them important to the citizens of the country.

They have ancient carvings on them which will be worth seeing and exploring.

Not to worry actually.

You will come across religious buildings in

No need to add anything extra to the list.

The biggest Pagoda in all Vietnam is Bai Dinh Pagoda, in Ninh Binh province. This is around 100km south of Hanoi.

9. Find solace in Dalat (or Da Lat)

Set yourself up for a relaxing atmosphere on the highlands.

If you want a little action to go with this, you can participate in the sporting events on the hills of Dalat.

You can also tour the villages around which will open up the rich culture of the region while you find solace in that serene place.

We especially enjoyed the tiny, cute coffee shops all over the village.

Our favorite coffee shops in Da Lat are:

Me Linh Coffee Garden (for a day trip to the area)
Bicycle up cafe
ZEN Cafe Dalat – Villa
THONGDALAT.space

Dalat is also the region where they produce wine. Try a few local wines, they are tasty!

Another highlight is the night market directly in the city center. You cannot miss it!

10. Visit Hoi An for a shopping adventure

Get suited and put on your suit game as you will find tailor-made suits in Hoi An.

Hoi An is the cutest, typical Vietnamese village you will find. So, at least, it is in the book.

It is really cute, a river flows through the village, many small shops, cafés, restaurants. The whole village is surrounded by rice fields, perfect to take photos.

In this guide we cover as well the best things to buy in Vietnam .

Find here our big guide on best hostels in Hoi An .

Beautiful Hoi An - one of the best things to do in Vietnam

The beach of Hoi An is around 5km away.

Hoi An is a small place where you can opt to take a walk as you explore the authentic suits they have in store.

Most visitors come to this place to shop, see historical building and have coffee at the most exquisite cafes it has to offer.

Also, you can choose to relax at the beaches after a long day of exploration and adventure.

Good to know : The first day we entered the village we went to a beautiful roof top restaurant. The next day we took the same street and suddenly there was a stand asking for an entrance fee. Apparently this is not a scam, but true. Around the city you find a few places asking for entrance fee.

We did not pay, since we thought it is a scam. We went to a different street, same story.

Then we went to the street with Cong Caphe , there we did not have to pay any entrance. I cannot assure you it will be the same for you, but give it a try.

To me it does not seem fair to pay an entrance fee to an ancient city, especially since i leave my money anyway here, buying at least a few souvenirs or coffees.

Anyway, this is just for you to know.

My best tip for Hoi An : Move around and keep walking. There are so many corners and tiny places you can explore. Do not stay only on the main street. At night, the city is lightened up. This is the best time to take beautiful photos.

Last but not least: I loved the Chinese Bridge, so beautiful and picturesque. Here is our photo from the Chinese Bridge.

Update : once a month, every full moon, there is the Full Moon Festival in Hoi An.

If you happen to be around here, stay in Hoi An. You can purchase little floating candles boats and set them free in the river.

Personally, I did not like this that much. When you walk a bit in floating direction, you will see all the trash. Not really adorable anymore.

Chinese Bridge - a must visit in hoi An, Vietnam

11. Take a bike tour to Da Nang

Da Nang is the big city near Hoi An. It is in the north of Hoi An.

It has SO MUCH to offer, but it is less known, a real hidden gem in Vietnam.

If you know how to ride a bicycle, then Da Nang will be the best place to tour. A bike tour will go well if you have local guides helping you discover the beautiful landscape.

You will be able to go through villages as you wish away the sunlight.

The tour will start as the sun rises and may go on til the daylight is gone.

It is an adventurous tour, which educates you on what the area has to offer in terms of tranquility and unlimited adventures as you move along with a small crew.

The best hostel in Da Nang is Memory Hostel. In a nutshell, the best hostels in Da Nang are:

Memory Hostel – for solo-traveler
Rom Casa Hostel Da Nang – for party-traveler and beach-lover
The Vietnam Hostel – for couples

Read our complete guide to best hostels in Da Nang .

What to do in Da Nang?

You have to visit the infamous Dragon Bridge . Every Saturday and Sunday at 9pm then dragons spits fire – real fire!

Okay, the dragon spits as well water after spitting the fire… but I think the fire is way cooler!

Below you can find more information, #15.

Read : 14 best design cafes in Da Nang .

During the day, hang out at the beach or drive to the peninsula. There is a gigantic Buddha statue.

In the area you find as well restaurants directly at the beach. Just keep driving – there is only 1 street – and keep an eye to the right side. Once you see a restaurant, climb down the stairs, sit down, enjoy the ocean!

Here is the street I am talking about . This will make it easier for you to find the place.

Bare in mind, wherever you park with your motorbike, you pay a bit for parking. It is kind of a tipping for the people watching over your vehicle.

12. Scuba Diving in Nha Trang

It is a favorite destination for all those visitors who love diving in the sea. If you are familiar with scuba diving you can apply for a certification and take a plunge into the sea.

However, if you are not a fun, you can dine and wine in the beautiful resorts found bedside the sea which adds value to your visit.

Vietnam has a lot to offer for your perfect vacation or holiday.

There is a lot to see and a lot of places to visit.

However, this will depend on how well prepared in terms of the necessities you need and the prior knowledge of the area you are visiting. This will prevent you from running into trouble and enjoy your stay while you make the most out of it.

Check out our great guide on the best hostels in Nha Trang if you’re looking for a wonderful’s night sleep in this city.

Update: We wanted to give you even more insights to the essential things to do in Vietnam.

So we updated this article with even more tours and places to visit in Vietnam.

Ccasa Hostel in Nha Trang - Sleeping containers and giant hammocks

13. A vegetarians heaven

Are you a meat lover? No worries, there is LOTS of meat you can eat.

But, also vegetarians will love this country .

During our 3 months adventure, we enjoyed so much food.

This country is a heaven for vegetarians.

The Buddhist only eat vegetarian so there are tons of restaurants and food stalls specialized on this.

Keep your eyes open!

Every full moon, all Buddhist people only eat vegetarian foot. We had no idea and went to a Vegetarian restaurant in Da Nang. They were even out of food!

Try to learn as well the basic words for Vegetarian: AN CHAI!

I can even write you this without looking up the word. Here is a guide to eating Vegetarian in Vietnam .

14. Visit an abandoned water park

We visited Hue, the former capital.

Hue is located North of Hoi An. A bike trip or an organized bus tour between these two cities is the best you can do in Vietnam! It is one of my favorite routes in Vietnam! This route takes you along the Hai Van Pass. This is where you will find a former US military bunker. It was once one of the most dangerous routes in the world, today it is only beautiful.

It is also the former border between North and South Vietnam.

Hue is a nice place to visit in Vietnam and recommended by so many people. So, yes, it is worth, but…there is a but:

Our highlight was the abandoned waterpark in Hue.

It is right outside the city center, and there is a tiny entrance fee. This park was built in the 2000s and was never really used and adapted by the people.

Today, well, it’s a travelers dream to wander around this impressive scenery. Bring you camera, please please please!

Good to know : There is a tiny food stall around. Here you can get a coca cola and some basic food.

Rumor : Rumor has it, that there are crocodiles living in this area and the water park. When we visited we have seen nothing no evidence of this. Plus, we could not find any information on this.

15. Enjoy Da Nang and the Dragon Bridge

A bit more south of Hue you find Da Nang. Da Nang is a big city, just a few km away from the tiny, yet famous village of Hoi An.

Da Nang is non-touristy!

There is no other city where you can see the growing times of Vietnam. Come here, enjoy the beach and endless awesome coffee shops.

Also, you can visit here roof top terrace with infinity pools.

The fire-spitting Dragon Bridge is another thing you have to see in Vietnam.

The Memory Hostel is the best place to admire the Dragon Bridge. It has a roof top terrace with a direct view to the bridge. EPIC!

Check here my full guide on best hostels in Da Nang .

16. Visit Sa Pa (trekking and family)

Up in the North of Hanoi, right at the border of China, there is Sa Pa.

It’s a wonderful experience to admire the scenic landscape. Stay with a local family, play with the kids, and mingle with the locals.

Sa Pa is known for the

rice fields in the mountains
the magical views and
trekking experience

You can stay either in the Sa Pa Village itself in a better guesthouse. Or you can stay with a local family.

I totally recommend the local family experience.

The locals will approach you when arriving to Sa Pa. You will go for a trekking with your guide, all the way to the families village and house. Here you hang out in the kitchen, near the fire, can take beautiful photos of the landscape and try rice wine.

Rice wine? It is the drink of the simple people. You have to try this when you visit!

How to get to Sa Pa?

You can take:

1. Night Train : This is one of the best and most adventurous things to do in Vietnam. Book a night train and go over night to Sa Pa. Here’s a blogger guide to get from Hanoi to Sa Pa by sleeper train .

Very good to know : As a foreigner you cannot book tickets on the official train website with your foreign credit card. There is only a website to buy EXPENSIVE tickets to Sa Pa.

BUT : You can buy your cheap tickets directly at the train station. We paid only 7€ per person, while others who paid online bought a ticket for 50€ – each way.

2. Bus : There is a bus leaving from Hanoi to Sa Pa everyday. There are as well sleeping buses. I am not a big fan of buses, this is why we took the train.

Find our guide to traveling in Sa Pa here . We included our own photos!

Read: all our 99 travel photos from Vietnam here .

17. Enjoy Ha Long Bay (starting from Cat Ba)

Head over to the stunning Ha Long Bay. For me, this is one of the BEST things to do in Vietnam.

There is no way around it, do not SKIP THIS!!

You can take a cruise ship and soak in everything there is. We recommend spending at least 1 night here. It is really something special and unique!

You can book your day cruise tour in Ha Long Bay here .

My best recommendation is actually staying overnight. Book a 2 day cruise with sleeping in the Ha Long Bay on the boat.

This tour includes a private 4 star boat with a bar, spring roll cooking classes , kayaking and much more.

Planning to stay in Ha Long Bay?

Instead of staying at the not-so-beautiful-city of Ha Long City, I highly recommend Cat Ba Island. It is directly located in the Ha Long Bay – exactly the same landscape!

This island has a cave hospital, a small village, a national park to visit and really nice restaurants.

For the backpacker, we recommend the Woodstock Beach Camp .

18. Enjoy coffee – over and over again!

Sure, we are big coffee lovers. In fact, we summed up our tips on how to find design coffee shops all around the world.

Vietnam is a country you will start to get into the coffee world as well.

There are many wonderful coffee shops around. But, you can get a regular coffee basically everywhere and it will be fantastic!

You can try the typical Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk, coffee with egg or coffee with coconut. YUMMY!

19. Go off the beaten path

The best places to visit in Vietnam are:

Ha Long Bay
Saigon /Ho Chi Minh City

Those are the absolute basic recommendations you will get over an over again. Okay, I get it.

However, if you have enough time, take the pass less traveled.

Visit for instance Kon Tum or the 3 borders triangle between Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. There is so much to see apart from the big tourist spots.

20. Take a motorbike tour from Hanoi to Saigon

We spent 3 full months in this amazing country. This gave us the time to fall in love with it, to “hate” it, to admire it, to enjoy it, to be annoyed by it – all that in the same day sometimes!

If you bring at least 4 weeks with you (and enough confidence), buy a motorbike and cruise from Hanoi to Saigon.

Travel the world-famous Ho Chi Minh Road. It is a life time experience!

Good to know : We recommend to plan at least with 3 weeks for this trip.

You can also rent a bike and only do a part of the trip. This is also an option and life-time experience. You can do easily 25k strong trips, but on average we drove about 100km per day.

We did not drive every day of course. We took our time and enjoyed a lot Da Nang for instance, Hoi An and more beach towns. But the days we took the bikes from A to B it was between 25k and 150km.

The biggest distance we drove in one day was around 200km. The average travel speed with motorbikes is 60km/h.

If you have any questions on how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam, itineraries or whatever, I am happy to help.

Just leave a comment below, happy to give you handy websites and facebook groups to find your motorbike.

21. At least: Take a motorbike along Hai Van Pass

But okay…we get it, not everyone wants to do this bike trip.

The most scenic road we’ve traveled here was the Hai Van Pass between Hue and Hoi An.

In the map below you can find the destinations and cities we are talking about.

Back in the days of the American War, this was one of the most dangerous roads in the world. There is a former American bunker on the top, and the views are just WOWing you. Have a look on the photo below.

You can join as well organized tours with other travelers from Hoi An to Hue, just ask your accommodation.

22. Visit a roof-top terrace in Saigon

When we think of Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon, we think about FUN nights out. Oh my god, it was EPIC!

The biggest city in the country comes with amazing roof top terraces.

We had quite some parties here with our friends from The Common Room Project. Find here the best hostels in Ho Chi Minh City .

Therefore, highly recommend it! Go for a drink at a roof-top terrace.

There are cheaper places for the nightlife, but it is well worth it! The whole hostel moved to the roof top disco, and we stayed until the club closed.

A super fun thing to do!

23. Stay at awesome hostels

The quality of hostels varies a lot. There are a bunch of dirty backpackers hostel to crazy party hostels to stunning 5 Star Hostels. If you are a female solo-traveler, opt-in for the 5 Star Hostels .

You find all Top Hostels in Vietnam here . We even included an backpacking itinerary for Vietnam.

Actually, we recommend everybody to stay at the 5 Star Hostels.

You can still join the Party Hostels for their nightlife -even without staying there!

And remember, hostels are the gateway to make lifelong friendships .

Below, you can find a list of accommodations in Vietnam we recommend.

Amazing vintage design at Memory Hostel dorms

24. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels (near Saigon)

Impressive, terrifying, curious, crazy, wow…

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a MUST-VISIT in Vietnam, no question about it.

You can take day trips from Saigon or go there by your own.

Just ask the hostel for recommendations. You can ask the team at The Common Room Project. It is the 5 Star Hostel in town. They will help you to organized this trip.

FYI: You can also fire an old machine gun. It was around $15, and it’s real bullets.

Although we are no fans of guns, to hear the gun fire in the background when walking around the area adds a special, uncomfortable atmosphere. It’s quite an experience!

Read : 24 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

25. Visit the corps of Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi

Did you know you can visit the corps of Ho Chi Minh? He is in the Mausoleum and every thousands of people visit him.

This is a free thing to do in Hanoi.

Just check the schedule and plan enough time.

Also: Do NOT try to take a photo of Ho Chi Minh . There are 4 to 6 soldiers in the room. It is forbidden to take a photo.

If you do take a photo, then, well, you will be most likely arrested. Do not risk it!

We mentioned this earlier before in this list. I consider this a must-do, this place tells you a lot about the country. The past, the present and the future!

Read : 41 things to do in Hanoi – for families and solo-traveler

26. Visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels

We told you we will share with you the less known tunnels. But impressive in the same way.

The Vinh Moc Tunnels are located in the “North”, or shall we say, the former North Vietnam.

These tunnels were used to hide from the bombings. The Cu Chi Tunnels near Saigon were used to hide and fight.

You see, in the American war, the North was bombed, while they were fighting man against man in the South.

Not many tourists come here since it is not easy to get here. It is in the area of Hue. You need a motorbike or hire a driver to get here.

The entrance fee is very low and there is a guide you can hire.

I would recommend the guide since he or she will share incredible stories e.g. how many babies were born here, how many tunnels were destroyed and so on. There is as well stories of underground villages that were bombed, and destroyed.

Incredible, terrifying stories.

27. Tour with the Hanoi kids

The locals know their way around the best places to visit in Hanoi.

As such, you will get chance to take some of the Hanoi kids with you in an effort to get the most out of your visit.

It involves signing up for the tour which is organized by an organization that seeks to pair the kids or students with the travelers. The students are learning English and thus offers a great opportunity for them to interact as they show travelers around.

It is a fun experience and you get to learn more during the tour.

Read : our first 24 hours in Hanoi meeting local students.

28. Water Puppet Show

One of the best things to do in Vietnam and Hanoi with kids is this one: A water Puppet theatre!

See a unique art form that originates over 1,000 years ago in the Red River Delta. In the past, water puppetry showed the daily life of villagers such as farming, fishing and romance. Now, watch plays about ancient Vietnamese legends, myths and history.

How did this get started?

The world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi has its roots in an art form that dates back to the 11th century.

The tradition of water puppet theater stems from a time when rice paddy fields were flooded and villagers would create entertainment by standing in the waist-deep water with the puppets performing over the water. Using large rods to support the puppets it appeared as if they were moving across the water with the puppeteers hidden behind a screen.

The entrance is only around 8€, and the show lasts around 45 minutes.

It is family-friendly and a great cultural experience.

I am adding here a video abut the theatre for you.It’s kind of spoiler alert, so don’t watch it if you want to be surprised yet by the actual show.

29. Tam Coc/ Ninh Binh and the “dry Ha Long Bay”

Tam Coc and Ninh Binh are located a bit more than 100km south of Hanoi.

The two villages are next to each other, part of a giant National Reserve.

You can also come here by bus or by your motorbike.

It is known as the “dry Ha Long Bay” and this is the area you can find locals paddling with their feet.

It is certainly true and super interesting to watch!

Just have a look on the photo below.

The lime stones here are as gorgeous as in the Ha Long bay, yet surrounded by rice fields.

There are even day trips from Hanoi. The tour includes the Mua Caves, the village of Hao Lua and even lunch.

If you bring the time, I would rather suggest staying at least 1 night, since the area is really big and beautiful. You can also take a boat tour with locals.

We did not do this because the waters were so full of all the boats. We stayed on solid ground and watched it from the outside.

For recommendations on places to stay, check out our dedicated guide on the best hostels in Ninh Binh .

30. National Park and Monkey Reserve

Unfortunately monkeys are becoming a rare species in Vietnam. There is many influences on this.

We visited the Cuc Phuong National Park and Monkey reserve. It’s a reserve for many different types of monkeys where they try to help monkeys to survive.

It is a really interesting place to visit!

It is around 30km from Ninh Binh. There is day tours from Ninh Binh you can book.

We have visited by mid of March and there were millions of butterflies. Literally, millions!

I have never seen anything alike.

The funnies part though : The guys from the Reserve told me there are not many butterflies at the moment, May is the season! Keep that in mind 😉

Cuc Phuong National Park in Vietnam - Things to do in Vietnam

Map of all the things to do

A map is always handy, right?!

Therefore, I created a Google Map with all the mentioned activities and some more. It gives you an idea of how to get around and how to plan it.

As you can see, the main sights and activities are sprad around the South, the Central part and then North again.

The parts inbetween are AMAZING and those are non-touristy things, mostly.

Yet, if you have 14 days in Vietnam, I would focus on the list I put together here.

2) Smart and Basic Travel Tips for Vietnam

Okay, here you have the absolute best things to do in Vietnam. Remember, if you have any questions, just drop them here .

In your quest to prepare for a visit to Vietnam, there are things which you should know as part of your plans, prior to visiting.

To make this list complete, we thought we should cover all the basic tips. These travel tips Vietnam are really essential so I recommend reading through them.

They include:

1. It is very cheap, you won’t believe it

It is cheap, from the food they serve to the transport and fly costs.

You can fly using FlyVietnam , which is less costly as compared to the usual ones.

( side note : We at Hostelgeeks recommend using Skyscanner . Here is our review of Skyscanner .

When it comes to food, you can opt for the street food, which is cooked and served while you watch it. Life is cheap in Vietnam, all you need to do is know where to get what, as not all transport means, flying and food will be affordable.

In short, there are no fixed prices and you pay whatever amount you will pay.

For accommodation you can pay as little as 10€ for a private double room.

You can eat for as little as 1€.

A Banh Mi cost me everything from 7.000 Dong to 55.000 Dong. Read more about the currency .

How cheap is Vietnam? You won't believe it

2. People are friendly

As a foreigner, you will feel like home. In most parts of the countries you visit, if you are foreigner you may feel out of place.

This is especially the case when you look confused while on the streets.

In Vietnam, the mood is totally different as everyone is minding their own business.

The people are friendly and when you ask for direction, they offer a helping hand while they go on with their business.

In short, it will feel like home away from home.

Bear in mind: Some people see you as a walking wallet – those are the more touristy areas. This can bean you can be easily overcharged for a tour, some food and so on.

Don’t worry, this happened to us a lot. And the “overcharging” is not a lot of money in the end. Just keep it in mind.

The non-touristy areas are different. The people will approach you, want to help and give recommendations.

3. Do your homework

You have to know what you are getting yourself into once you are in Vietnam.

You can take time and learn their culture. The most important thing is to know the prices of things in the marketplace and also the cost of transport . As such, ask the hotel and hostel staff from where you are staying about the transport cost from one location to the next.

This will protect you from the taxi scams, for instance which are plenty in this country.

Also, make sure you only stay at safe hostels like the 5 Star Hostels in Vietnam .

And always : Ask the price first BEFORE ordering or jumping in the cab.

This way you can avoid a lot of unpleasant discussions.

Top location in Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

4. Be ready to bargain hard

You have to be ready to bargain. Here is a simple step by step guide:

ask for the price
clarify if it is in dollar or dong (never pay in Dollar)
tell them you are ready to pay 50% of it

and then either

you both agree and you buy
or you walk away
or the seller sends you away (happens as well!)
you both disagree – you leave, s/he curses you

Even if you are a tourist you have to bargain up to a price that you feel they should charge either for food or transport. There is this notion that tourists are rich and this they should be charged high. Ensure that you have prior knowledge of the price of an item before you go out to buy it.

The price range will help you to bargain.

You thus have to be prepared to walk away if you are not satisfied with how much the vendor is charging.

This will save you a lot of money depending on how much you want to buy or how often you want to travel while in Vietnam.

If you want to become a business man in life, then go to Vietnam!

You will learn here the hard way!

Very good to know : Bargain with a smile on the face. No need to get mad. Bargain is a game here, it is expected.

5. Opt for the tourist bus instead of local transport

Local transport will include taxis and motorbikes.

Also, there is the tour buses which are cheaper and safer as compared to the local transport. Taxis tend to overcharge, especially if you are foreigner.

Once they realize that you are not a local, you may end up paying double than what you would have paid if you opted for the tour bus.

Do use the app Grab cab to get around, many taxi’s will try to scam you by not using the meter. This goes more for the big cities though.

6. Travel late at night to save accommodation cost

If you are planning to travel for a long distance, the best way to do it is to use the late night travel buses.

This means that you will get to your destination the following day and pay less as compared to traveling at any other time of the day.

Also you will save on the cost of accommodation which will prove to be effective on your part.

The so-called sleeping buses are surprisingly modern and comfortable.

Personally, I am not a big fan of buses. We traveled by our motor bike and train.

BUT, I was told the sleeping buses with actual comfy beds in them, are really a great way. They are obviously a bit more expensive than the local transport, but are a great way to go a long distance.

7. It is very well connected to WiFi

How about I tell you the WiFi here is faster than the WiFi we experienced in France, Germany and Spain. Probably all combined…

No, I am not kidding.

It has some of the best hotels and restaurants plus shopping malls.

If you are any of those hotels or dining in a fancy restaurant, there are high chances that it is connected to WiFi. This means that you do not have to use your SIM to browse.

You can simply connect to the internet with the help of the WiFi depending on the establishment you are into. The fast WiFi is usually for free, I have never paid any WiFi.

This will help you to save on the cost of accessing the internet since Vietnam is well connected to WiFi.

Anyway, I recommend buying a SIM Card for your phone when you arrive. We had

Update : when we got back to Europe, we had to laugh. Vietnam is better connected than every European country we know. The fastest internet connection of my life I had in Saigon.

I may have downloaded the whole internet in a few seconds…

8. The traffic is pathetic/awesome

In most cities of Vietnam, such as Hanoi and Saigon, you will have to deal with the heavy traffic.

If you are not used to crossing a street with heavy traffic, you might suffer a panic attack. It is almost impossible to cross the street if you choose to wait for the roads to clear so that you can cross.

The best way to deal with such traffic is to cross slowly, keep calm and make sure the drivers see you, to prevent you from being run over.

Again : Slow wins here to get through the traffic.

Never run fast crossing a street in Vietnam!

Nobody here wants to have an accident, so cars and motorbikes will drive around everything. In our experience, nobody complained when you were not in your line or whatever. The traffic is chaotic and at the same time organized.

Traffic is crazy in Hanoi, Saigon and all over Vietnam

9. Walk with your head help up high

You have to be bold all the way.

Smile when you can and walk like you are one of the locals in the region.

Although the Vietnamese are friendly, they can be intimidating from the how they carry on their business. Do not be shy or intimated to reach out in the case you want to ask for direction.

Also, when crossing the road, you have to do it in a bold manner. It can be scary and dangerous crossing a street that is heavy with traffic.

However, with the right confidence and knowledge of what you are doing, you will be able to safely get to the other side without much hustle.

10. Be careful where you eat

There are multiple cases of stomach illnesses among visitors due to the food they eat in Vietnam.

As a first time visitor you have to take care of where you eat.

Although Vietnam is a favorite destination for food lovers, there is a need to know where is the right place to eat. Avoid restaurants which have very few customers as their food may not be freshly cooked.

Go to those that have high frequency of customers as they replenish their ingredients and foodstuffs, now and then, making it healthy to consume.

Good to know : Food poisoning mostly comes from undercooked or bad meat. It may be a good idea to leave the meat away on your food. Do whatever you want, just saying!

Also, remember, they eat dog in Vietnam. You can walk around and find grilled dog on a spike – like Western people do with pigs, just with dogs.

I am not adding here a photo………

Update: 11. Tipping in Vietnam

Locals do not tip in Vietnam, and tourist tip 50-50. What I mean with this is easy.

You can have an awesome friend in Vietnam by tipping. It is highly appreciated, sometimes even expected.

If it is expected, you know you are in a touristy area.

Remember, the Vietnamese dong is not strong and prices are so low, tipping is really something everybody can afford.

My best tip I can give you for tipping in Vietnam: do it, but be smart about it!

If someone treats you not well, do not give him/ her a tip. This way they understand they’ve to treat tourists better. Use tipping as a tool and don’t do it automatically just because you know it from your own country.

Little background story : We got scammed when we traveled with our bikes to Cat Ba by ferry. They took 3 times the money for the ticket from us. When we arrived, they even wanted another payment just for giving us the bikes back. We told them we already paid. The guy seriously hit me hard on my arm, yelled at me in Vietnamese and I had to take my own bike by myself.

This, however, was a big exception.

I never experienced anything alike. Don’t worry!

Update: 12. Scams in Vietnam

Let us talk about scams in Vietnam.

First of all, whenever someone charges you more, it does not HAVE to be a scam. We have to make a huge difference between tourist areas and local areas.

Truth be told, many times a Vietnamese does not know the value of its service like repairing your bike. So they suddenly charge you only 10.000 Dong for it; that is 40 cents.

Then the next time you pay suddenly 4 times more.

Many many many Vietnamese actually do not think they scam you. It is just the way they do it.

My story : a very handy mechanic with a limited English fixed my really bad bike. I asked him how much, and he showed me a $5 dollar bill in his wallet. I told him I do not have dollar. Which was true. Again: Never pay in dollars!

Then he showed me $2 Dollar bill. Again, I do not have dollars.

And then he pulled out 20.000 Dong. That is 80 cents. So he went down from $5 to 80cents in 30 seconds. I am sure he was not trying to scam me. He just wanted dollars, he seemed to have no idea of its actual value.

Okay, but now: There is SCAMS in Vietnam. And nasty ones too. Annoying ones!

Overpay the bus or ferry

We already talked about this, overcharging foreigners for buses, trains and ferries is common. Try to see the actual prices, and you could even negotiate.

Sometimes the driver claimed the price is for locals only. That is not true There is no such thing as prices for locals and tourists; unless it is written.

In the War Museum in Da Nang, locals pay less than tourists for instance. But again, that is official. It makes sense in a way.

Corrupt police

Unless you have a motorbike in Vietnam, you do not have to worry about the police. They don’t care about tourist.

Then driving a Motorbike in Vietnam, some hot spots are known for corrupt police. The most famous scams due to corrupt police is in Mui Ne. Scroll up for more details.

Taxi Scam with no meter

Number three on this list of Vietnam scams is the world famous No Taxi Meter.

Nothing new, nothing ground-breaking. We took several caps in Vietnam, and we made sure they use the taximeter.

A fellow traveler once used Vinasun in HCMC as recommended by the hostel. They got in a taxi where the meter was rigged and was jumping up really fast in front of them. The driver locked the doors and wouldn’t let them out until they paid about 5 times the normal fare. Just be careful with taxis in general… we reckon grab is the best bet!

A great app to use is GRAB and GoViet.

They have also scooter and the time is tracked by the app. A great way to get a fair deal and save money. On that note, this is a handy app for traveling South East Asia.

Park here – no further

In touristic areas and some local areas you will need to pay a parking fee. So far, so normal.

What is not normal is that a lady jumps in front of you near a tourist sight and tells you you HAVE to park here. She was quite aggressive about it. The first time it happened, we had no idea and parked there; for a whopping 20.000 dong (80 cents).

We walked then 5 minutes to the sight.

And you know what?!

There was free parking at the sight. As mostly all the time in Vietnam, it was not about the money really but about being taken advantage of.

Lesson learned, do not let people push you into anything.

Fruit Vendors

The fruit ladies wandering around the Hanoi lake are walking scams. They will charge you for a bunch of bananas like $2-$5 dollars. The actual worth on a market is like 50 cents. Pay attention, do not reward these ladies.

They will try to confuse you with the prices. I would never buy anything from them.

Photo Posing Charge/ Fee

I would not really call this one a scam, but a common practice that is quite annoying.

When taking photos of people in touristic areas, you can end up in a discussion about a posing charge.

This is really not something only happening in Vietnam. It happens around the world.

Ask before taking a photo, and be ready to give them like 10.000 for a photo. That is fair, I guess.

Learn the bills: 10.000 and 100.000 look similar

Make sure you know the difference between the dong bills. Since the currency is so weak, you will see a lot of zeros.

Pay attention to the Dot between the zeros.

It will save you money!

The scam here is to give you back less, and hope you won’t notice. In 6 months, this happened only once to me. So maybe it is not a scam, since it could be a mistake simply. I am sure this happened to many people back home as well; without screaming SCAM.

This scam is more known around Thailand, but it spread to Vietnam. Do not buy drugs on the street. It can happened the police is around the corner just to get some bribe from you to let you go again.

We are not your mommy, but come on, you are way too cool for drugs anyways.

Restaurants with no price lists

A big red flag! Always ask the price first and eat at restaurants with a price list. We would never ever eat at a place without one. Not in Vietnam, not in Paris, not in Bali, not anywhere in the world.

The travel agency called “Tripadvisor”

This scam is probably the only one I appreciate. Because it has a sign on it and you can smell it from far. Any tour agency with names like Tripadvisor, Bookings or whatever is a big red flag.

A great rule of thumb : Always stay in cool hostels or hotels and book the tours with them; if you trust them!

Dollar vs Dong

By now you know you should never pay in dollar. The conversion you get is terrible, you will overpay always.

When bargaining and negotiating on a price, make sure you talk about Dong. Always, always, always dong! It happened to us once that even one guy told us after a tour, the price was in EURO. Since the EURO is stronger than the Dollar, it was even more money.

Paying anything in EURO outside of the European Union is ridiculous! Pay attention.

Tour Guide asking for more money

Do you want to take a boat ride around Tam Coc and Ninh Binh? The ladies paddling with their feet. It is awesome!

However, you paid the guide already and during the tour it happened to several of our friends: The lady kept asking for more money. If you don’t give more money, they stop paddling, will turn over and go back etc. ANNOYING.

Passport at the reception

Imagine you leave you passport and suddenly you have to pay to get it back?! It never happened to us, since we were careful where we stayed – and lucky. But we heard this story a few times.

The beautiful cyclos will always overcharge you. While the experience is pretty cool, I always stayed away from them, because we only heard big scams. They are not cheap. If you want to take one, fix the price before. However, even if you, afterwards they might try to get more, do less time etc. Annoying!

Here is a great video with common scams in Hanoi and Vietnam.

3. 10 Things NOT to do in Vietnam

We already covered the fabulous and most awesome things to do in Vietnam.

We also shared basic travel tips. This means you already did half your homework.

In this list we want to share with your the 10 things NOT to do in Vietnam. Some of them are really important, others are just important to have heard of.

Again, this is your list of what to AVOID in Vietnam.

This is really interesting, so keep on reading.

1. Cross the road without looking

Again, slow wins!

If the driver can, they will drive around you, not in to you! Nobody wants to have an accident here.

Do not try to run like a crazy person crossing the street. This will most likely end up in an accident.

Try to walk slowly over the street. You can make also signals to motorbikes to slow down, but always with respect!

2. Ordering food or drinks without asking the price

Seriously, don’t do this.

Never. This is actually a good advise for every country in the world, wherever you travel!

First ask the price. If you are not sure what she or he said, then write it down. Make sure you are both on the same picture.

3. Sleep in a $5 accommodation

Accommodation in Vietnam is really cheap. Compared to Thailand it is even cheaper, and the quality can be really good!

When looking around for hostels and homestays, you will find as well $5 dollar accommodations.

Well, don’t come here. Skip them. Seriously!

It is always worth it to go with the 2nd cheapest accommodation. The cheapest, in our experience come with dirty bed linen and cockroaches. That’s an experience for sure, but one you might want to skip. We did this a few times, it was not worth it at all!

This is one of the things NOT to do in Vietnam to have a good night sleep.

Here we list the BEST hostels in Vietnam .

4. Plan and book everything ahead of time

Other than different destinations like Spain, you don’t really need to book and plan everything ahead of time.

In fact, booking everything online will end up being more expensive.

That goes for accommodation as well as tours.

However, that being said, many popular quality hostels are often sold-out. Most likely you cannot show up on the reception desk and get a bed. Then it’s worth it to book ahead of time and pay 50cents more.

In this article of the coolest things to do in Vietnam, we also over accommodations . Just keep scrolling.

5. Always bargain, always!

As a western traveler, bargaining is something we’ve to learn first, right?!

Let me tell you, Vietnam is the place to learn bargain like a boss. You will learn fast. You will win, you will lose.

Sometimes the vendors even refused to ell at all, because I did not want to pay their price. Fair enough.

If there is something you really, really want to buy, don’t let the vendor know. If the vendor realizes you want this souvenir or tour badly, you will lose.

But, quite frankly, Vietnamese people are tough traders so you will lose once in a while for sure.

Take it with a smile, and remember, Vietnam is cheap anyway.

6. Visit all sights in the city

There are a lot of cool things to do in Vietnam.

In fact, there are many tours to join and sights and places to visit in Vietnam, it can be overwhelming.

My best advise would be to slow down.

There are couple of absolute MUST-VISITS such as

Old Town Hanoi
and the Cu Chi Tunnels

Everything else, in my opinion is an awesome add-on. Do not get stressed and don’t feel pushed to do everything.

I must admit, I did not enjoy the old town, ancient city of Hue at all. It was around 10€ entrance fee, which is a lot of Vietnam. Take it sower, more intense!

7. Skip or ignore other travelers

One of the coolest things to do in Vietnam is talking to other travelers. Since there are basically two ways to travel, you will always meet someone coming from the other direction than you.

The two itineraries in Vietnam are:

South to North (from Saigon to Hanoi)
North to South (from Hanoi to Saigon)

Simple as that. There is always someone that can recommend you one of the coolest places to visit in Vietnam, a fun thing to do in Vietnam or simple a restaurant, for instance.

This tip goes hand in hand with #4, booking everything ahead of time. Stay spontaneous. I know you might have a limited time here, but still leave some space for the cool stuff.

Seriously, this way we were able to visit so many amazing places to see in Vietnam.

8. Skip the street food – Cooking class?

Vietnam is a foodies paradise. No doubt about that! Therefore, this is one of the things NOT to do in Vietnam: Skipping street food!

Again, I mean: Try and eat Street Food. It’s awesome!

A few things you have to try are:

I really loved the food here, but I could not go into the details. Other than Banh Mi and Hot pot. I basically lived on this!

The cheapest Banh mi I got for 7.000 Dong, the most expensive one I got for 55.000 Dong. The most expensive one I got on my first day…I learned my lesson, but hey it was good tho!

Find a food guide to Hanoi here .

What about a cooking class?

I encourage you to take a cooking class as well! The coolest and most unique cooking classes might be in Hoi An.

There is this Market Tour, Basket Ride and Cooking Class . This one is super fun. You explore the local market which is already interesting. The basket ride is just pure fun! And if you are into Vietnamese food, that cooking class will change your cuisine skills!

Good to know : Are you vegetarian or have allergies, special requests? Ask beforehand. These tours are usually super fleixble!

From Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class

9. Take a photo of Ho Chi Minh Corps

As mentioned in the most incredible things to do in Vietnam, you can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi.

This is where you can see the corps of the real Ho Ch Minh.

He is still the #1 hero of the country.

You will see his face everywhere. EVERYWHERE! SO it is better to know who this personality was and what he did.

When entering the Mausoleum, you are not allowed to take photos. If you still want to take photos, against my advise, get prepared for 6 soldiers with machine guns tackling to the ground. There are 6 soldiers guarding the corps.

I am not sure what happens to people that intended to take a photo, but most likely you might end up in jail.

So, again, this is one of the main things NOT to do in Vietnam.

[Now guess why there is no photo here…]

10. Remember, it’s a Communist country

Yes, it is a safe country and yes, it is amazing with so many awesome places to visit in Vietnam.

But, please, remember that Vietnam is a communist country. There are many restrictions and lots of military power all around. Do not take photos of soldiers holding their Kalashnikov, for instance.

When I visited Vietnam, I was so keen to take a photo of a soldier. One day I was standing right in front of a military building with my motorbike without realizing it. A solider approached me. He asked me very kindly to stop on the side, not right in front. His English was very basic, but he smiled – I think he noticed I was lost and did not do this intentionally.

However, I saw the opportunity, one of the unique things to do in Vietnam, to take a photo of a solider with a Kalashnikov. I asked him politely if I can take a photo. He agreed. When I reached for my camera, he walked away.

To be fair, since his English was not the best, I don’t think he actually understood what I wanted.

Read : More short travel stories from the world .

4. Shopping: Things to buy in Vietnam

Vietnam is a kind of shopping-paradise.

You can find so many things to really cheap prices.

The markets here offer everything from delicious coconuts to fake North Face jackets and backpacks. You can even buy here fake football jerseys.

However, I would recommend buying fake football jerseys in Kuala Lumpur’s China Town.

So, what about the things you can buy in Vietnam?

There’s the following main things I consider worth it to buy to bring back home.

If you want to make me really happy, send me over a bag of real Vietnamese coffee.

If you want to make yourself really happy, buy one for yourself – as well!

The coffee here is incredibly good. It’s creamy, and strong, and really different from the European standard of coffee. Give it a try.

Coffee is a big part of the Culture here. Try the famous Egg-Coffee and of course the refreshing Ice-Coconut coffee.

The coffees you have to try in Vietnam are:

cà phê sữa đá – traditional Ice Coffee with condensed milk, very strong.
Coconut Coffee
Specialty Coffee

Once you tried it, you will realize why I am so excited about it. Therefore, this is my #1 recommendation for things to buy in Vietnam.

FYI : It goes without saying, buy the coffee at the end of the trip, so you save the space in your luggage.

Read : our favorite 14 best coffee shops in Danang .

egg Coffee, traditional coffee in Vietnam

Vietnam is known for its silk. So head over to the markets and get the silk of your choice. Every city hand village has at least one market. Night markets are also very common, although I recommend the day markets to choose the silk.

This way you can see the colors of the silk properly in day light.

If you want some tailor-made clothing, have a look on our #4 and #5 on things to buy in Vietnam.

3. Souvenirs

You will find endless options to buy souvenirs. This can be the typical magnet to put on your fridge back home.

But it can be also a snake-alcoholic drink you can buy at the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Propaganda Posters are also very popular to bring back home, same as the famous red-star-t-shirt. All that are classic souvenirs from Vietnam.

Especially in Hanoi you can find plenty of these propaganda poster shops.

I found a different, cool souvenir. This guy below made handmade stamps in every forms and shapes. Just keep walking around the old town in Hanoi or the markets in Saigon. You will get a lot of inspiration.

Personally, I still think Vietnamese coffee is the best thing to buy in Vietnam!

4. Handmade shoes

How about some handmade shoes? Walk in one of the many stores in Hoi An and ask for handmade shoes for you.

You can choose the color, material, look and feel.

Personally, for me it was overwhelming since I don’t know what kind of shoes I really love. I know, odd.

Give it a try. handmade shoes are a unique souvenir for yourself. You can bargain the price. After all, negotiating and bargaining is one of the most important things to do in Vietnam.

Get handmade shoes in Hoi An and bargain the price - one of the most important things to do in Vietnam

5. Wedding dress and a suit

Same as for the shoes goes for wedding dress and suit.

Many, many, many tourists come to Hoi An to admire the small, typical Vietnamese village at day and night, and to get a handmade wedding dress and suit.

There are numerous of tailor shops around, so you won’t have trouble finding a tailor.

We even were approached during our breakfast if we want a suit, shoes or whatever.

6. Vietnamese coffee maker

When ordering a coffee, you will for sure spot the Vietnamese coffee maker. This typical way of making coffee is quite interesting and cute to watch.

The Vietnamese coffee maker is also a popular Souvenir to buy

5. What to pack – Things to bring to Vietnam

Vietnam is a narrow, long country. There are different climate zones, and therefore, you will have to pack a lot of things.

Read : our perfect hostel packing list

Let us have a look on things to bring to Vietnam:

1. a real jacket – warm and water resistant

It can get warm, it can rain. All the time!

Therefore, bring a jacket that covers both weathers. The best jacket would be a convertible jacket where you can add another layer to keep yourself warm.

You can find a Jacket with detachable hooded 3 In 1 jacket like this here .

A dry bag is a real good idea to bring to Vietnam.

A dry bag is perfect to keep your belongings, well, dry! This is useful since you never know if it is going to rain. Also, since you end up joining a tour on water for sure (meaning, Mekong Delta, the Ocean, rivers, Ha Long Bay), you can put your phone and wallet here when joining the tour.

We explain all this in our packing list .

3. A lock for your backpack/ suitcase

Make sure you stay safe and lock your suitcase or backpack properly. Best way to do so, is a padlock.

Get a padlock that fits all lockers and suitcases, like this padlock here .

That brings us to the net topic, should you bring a suitcase or a backpack?

4. Bring a backpack and a day bag

We would vote for a backpack to bring. It is easier to travel around, no doubt about it! You will end up carrying your suitcase more than you will role it. This is way more uncomfortable at the end of the day.

I travel with a light backpack, the LOWE ALPINE .

Find more information on my backpack here .

As we mention in the things NOT do do in Vietnam, you should consider bringing a day bag with you. It can be a small one, obviously.

You can put your most valuable things here, not leaving them behind in the hotel, resorts or hostel.

When you are staying in hostels with proper lockers, then you are fine. Remember to bring your own padlock .

Bring a day bag, it's a good idea to get around and not leaving your valuables in the hotel.

5. Remember your visa

We will go into detail later in this article. Keep scrolling!

Remember you NEED a visa to enter Vietnam. You already need your invitation letter when checking in at the Airport.

Most countries need a visa for Vietnam. I love to use ivisa.com to check if I need a Visa. And if so, how much it will be and what it requires.

It is by far the easiest way to get your visa situation sorted out.

6. Short pants and swim suit

Vietnam has some beautiful beaches, so you will end up having a dip in the ocean.

Pack your swim suit !

As said, one of the nicest things to do in Vietnam is wandering around. It can be really hot, short pants are important.

7. Comfy shoes (maybe even hiking boots)

Some travelers we met made the huge mistakes of only packing flip-flops.

We even met a girl driving her motorbike in Flip-Flops. Needless to say, she got hurt badly and burned her feet when riding. Seriously, how can you do that?!

Anyway, that is one of the things again NOT to do in Vietnam.

Pack proper shoes. If you are considering hiking in Sa Pa for instance, pack some hiking boots.

If you prefer traveling light, you can also buy your new hiking boots in Hanoi, for instance. IN the old town, you will find endless shops selling fake North Face boots and jackets. Some of them are actually good quality.

So, get yourself a pair of waterproof hiking boots , they will come in handy.

BUT: Try to wear the boots before traveling. Your feet will get use to the new shoes and you will avoid blisters .

Read : 10 common backpacker mistakes everybody does

Unless you are as tought as these kids without shoes, bring some comfy and warm shoes with you - an important thing to bring to Vietnam

8. For the girls: Think about the menstrual cup

In Vietnam it can be hard to find tampons and to buy them. So if you use Tampons, buy a few ahead of time. You will find pads all over though.

However, travel girls use an alternative to tampons and pads.

It is called menstrual cup .

It is really a great long-term solution for girls traveling the world.

Good to know : Same as tampons, it takes a bit of time to get used to it. We recommend to start using it at home before you travel. It will be much easier this way.

Accommodation in Vietnam

Accommodation in Vietnam is really cheap and the quality can be really high.

You can sleep as cheap as $5. However, I would not recommend these places. You can stay at really awesome places for as little as $11 for 2 people. Those are the basic, clean hotels.

Everything less than $11 per night is a bad choice (cockroaches and dirty bed linen included).

You can stay in the following accommodation types:

Homestays (you will find them on Airbnb )

So, here is my list of accommodations in Vietnam we reviewed and stayed in person. All of them are recommended!

Best though, read my big guide on best hostels in Vietnam .

There I also included small guesthouses and such in destinations I did not find any cool hostel or only bad ones.

Full guide to the best hostels in Hanoi .
3 best hostels in Da Nang – compared
best hostels in Hoi An compared – and put on a map
Full guide to the best hostels in Nha Trang
best hostels in Ho Chi Minh City – compared with location

Update : Since many of our readers for this article asked us about insurances, here’s an update on that topic.

We totally recommend having insurance when you bike through Vietnam on a moped. It can be dangerous, in fact, I had many dangerous situations. Nevertheless, 100% worth it. Pay extra attention, and drive slowly and with concentration.

We always used Heymondo for our insurance. Here is our complete review on Heymondo insurance . However, they do not cover the following accidents:

What’s not covered (with World Heymondo)?

If you’re on drugs or have been drinking alcohol excessively
If you’re doing an activity the policy doesn’t cover
If you’ve been acting illegally
If you ride a motorbike without a helmet or the correct licence

Safetywing is another popular and cheaper insurance. Here is what they say:

“You must ensure the activity is adequately supervised and that appropriate safety equipment (such as protective headwear, life jackets etc.) are worn at all times.

Am I covered for moped / scooter accidents? Yes, as long as the accident does not fall under any exclusions, such as the exclusions for racing and intoxication.” – quote end

Make sure you have an actual valid driver’s license, at least in your home country and the international one. In most countries of the world, an international driver’s license is enough to drive a car or moped.

So, do you need an international driver’s license to drive a motorbike in Vietnam?

Yes, no, maybe. No joke! The situation is a bit weird since the police has a list of internationally accepted countries within the police stations. This list differs from the official Vietnamese government websites, which differs from various news sources.

Want more details? Read this guide .

What does it mean then? 98% of foreigners drive with an international drivers license. This should be enough since the UK says, their international drivers license is valid in Vietnam, for instance.

Besides the legal situation, please check precisely that issue with the travel insurance you are about to buy!

And please, always remember: The best travel insurance is the one you never need!

If you’re wondering about motorbike insurance, you might be planning to loop around Ha Giang, here’s a guide that should come in handy: best hostels in Ha Giang .

My personal experience : I had a small motorbike accident in Vietnam. I almost broke my arm, but I got luck on my side.

I have seen others who had a broken leg, arm or both. Serious injuries you do not want to have! Therefore, please please please:

do not be an idiot and wear your helmet at all times
Get insurance
make sure you know how to ride a bike
Stay safe and drive in a passive way
Enjoy the ride; it is freaking awesome!

Almost a Broken Arm in Vietnam - Luck was on my side!

“ Every one in Vietnam is a millionaire! “, said our guide on the way to the Cu Chi tunnels.

Of course, this was a joke in a way. Let me explain.

The local currency in Vietnam is DONG, in fact Vietnamese Dong. They value is roughly 25.000VDN to 1€.

You can find current exchange rate of Dong to Dollar here .

I recommend to download an exchange rate app for your SmartPhone. It helps you to understand the value of the currency better.

Read : our favorite smartphone apps for traveler

You can pay with American Dollars almost everywhere in the country. BUT….this is usually much more expensive! I recommend you to get Dong from the ATMs and always pay in the local currency, the Dong.

However, having dollars with you as a backup is a good idea.

VND is the shortcode for Vietnamese Dong.

Other than Indonesia, we had no issue when getting money from any ATM machine. It is safe in this sense!

For entering Vietnam, you always need a Visa.

Usually you can hire some visa agency on the internet. They will prepare an invitation letter for you, and it can costs something between $40 to $80.

Some of the fellow travelers we met even got a last-minute invitation letter. It was done in 30 minutes.

When flying to Vietnam, you already have to show your Vietnam Visa on the airport BEFORE departure.

Good to know : The Visa situation always changes. Unfortunately I cannot give you a perfect answer. But, I can give you a super simple website to sort out your Visa: iVisa.com

You can directly check what kind of Visa your nationality needs. I also wrote a handy guide on how to use iVisa and how it works for Vietnam.

A great way to find cheap flights is Skyscanner.com and Omio.com

How safe is Vietnam?

It is very safe, even for female-solo travelers .

We did not hear a single story of physical harm done to any tourist. We always felt very safe, even at night walking back home to our hostel or hotel.

That being said, there are many scams you will be aware of.

For instance, when leaving the Airport , the taxi driver might tell you your hotel does not exist anymore. They want to bring you to a great hotel. This is a common scam, not just in Vietnam. Don’t fall for it.

Also, in Hanoi some people randomly started to talk to us, asking for our plans and if we want to book the Ha Long Bay tour with them for instance. Skip this and ask your hotel reception for help. Although they get their cut as well, they are more likely to help you.

We felt for a Scam a Hai Phong, North Vietnam.

Here is the story:

We took our bikes from Hanoi to Hai Phong. We planned to take the ferry from here to Cat Ba Island. The “official ticket desk” was closed – all the time. One woman walking around sold the tickets. She claimed the bikes were the same price as a person. Well, we had no other chance than giving her the money. It worked, we got on the boat with our bikes. However, it was WAY to expensive. We realized, or better, this was confirmed, when we were leaving again Cat Ba Island, it was not even 10% of the price for the bike.

There are much more scams out there.

Just pay attention.

And remember, all the scams are usually “ only ” about your money.

So, one of the things NOT to do in Vietnam, fall for scams!

The only concern we had was about the accommodation.

We read a lot about hotel cleaning ladies or men that take money out of your wallet, when you leave it lying around. You probably won’t even realize when a couple of thousands dong are gone. So, always take your wallet and money with you, and don’t leave valuables back in the hotel. Just in case!

10. Things to do in Vietnam in 15 days (Itinerary ideas)

Vietnam is a long country, distances can be challenging. The bus and plane is the fastest way to get around. The main spots you want to discover in 15 days are accessible in this time frame.

For 15 days I would focus on the following spots:

Saigon with roof top terraces and Cu Chi Tunnels
Da Lat for coffee tastings
Nha Trang for beaches and diving
Hoi An for Shopping and ancient town admiring
Da Nang for Dragon Bridge and a non-touristy city
Hue for the Old Town and water park
Hanoi for Food and Old Town
Ha Long Bay to fall in love with the landscape (lime stones)
Sa Pa to fall again in love with a different landscape (rice terraces)

We are currently working on such an itinerary for 15 days in Vi etnam. If you have any questions, just leave a comment.

Please refer to the map for the itinerary.

30 days is a perfect time window to travel by motorbike from Ho Chi Minh in the South to Hanoi in the North. Basically get a rough idea for your itinerary in the map below.

Instead of making fix plans, I would stay flexible.

11. Tet holiday in Vietnam

Traveling during Tet Holiday in Vietnam?

Well, then you need to prepare a few things to avoid some bad mistakes and disappointments.

First of all, Tet Holiday is the same as Chinese New Year, at least the dates are.

Check the dates before you go. Tet Holiday is always around February.

During Tet the cities empty out , because most people travel back to their villages and hometown or go away on a holiday. This means at the same time, many restaurants are closed, even accommodations close and bars and regular shops.

Tet is not a good time to visit unless you just want some quiet time to relax.

On the other hand, it is a very interesting time to visit Vietnam. The streets are decorated, people are even more smiling and you can experience culture first hand.

Especially Hoi An is even more gorgeous during Tet.

During Tet the Vietnamese burn many things like fake money, shoes, clothes, paper etc. They believe their ancestorsdifferent world and there they need the fake money etc. Thanks for the burning, they send all these things to their ancestors.

So you see, we like being in Vietnam during Tet holiday, but again you need to prepare yourself since it lasts about a week. Make sure you have an accommodation confirmed, and check if restaurants are open in the area. If not, stock up a bit of food.

I make it sound like nothing is open. Truth it, you will not starve. There is always restaurants open, you may have to look longer though and cannot be picky.

You can compare it a bit to our Christmas. Imagine Christmas would last for 7 days, mostly everything is closed and you want to travel from A to B with a bus, and eat at restaurants. Difficult, but possible.

12. Map with Vietnam Itinerary and Sights

We can already share the rough itinerary and map.

Use this map to plan your trip.

13. Guide Books to Vietnam

Obviously, we are not the only ones with a guide. Get the Lonely Planet or Rough Guide to get even more info.

We wrote even more Vietnam guides for you. 100% for free!

Here’s our guide to the best 24 things to do in Ho Chi Minh City . For the capital we summed up our coolest things to do in Hanoi without the tourist stamp.

Find here the 27 BEST Hostels in Vietnam .

14. Questions? Please bother me!

I want to keep this article as useful and great as possible.

If you have any questions, please please bother me. Drop me a comment below.

I am more than happy to help you.

We traveled this country for 3 months and know it pros, cons and the sights to see. If you have any questions, it means, we missed to cover it in this article. That’s a shame. Every one of your questions will make this article more useful!

About the author:

This is an article by Hostelgeeks in cooperation with William Benetton. William is a blogger, traveler and writer. He writes about range of sports and tourism attractions. He has recently launched his own project, vuelta.club , a site dedicated to all things Vuelta de Espana.

pint it for later

24 Things To Do in Vietnam - 10 Travel Tips for Vietnam to eat, cruise and enjoy

We are 100% Independent: Some links on Hostelgeeks are so-called affiliate links. If you decide to book through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support allows us to keep producing high-quality, independent content free of influence from hostels or external advertisers. Learn more here . 🙏

✏️ Read our Editorial Guidelines

Great Article! Thanks.

Hey ! I would like to know more about the motorbikes! We would be three and we would like to move from points to points in motorbikes! Thanks so much for your article !

Hi Hortense,

Oh yes, motorbiking in Vietnam is a good idea! In this guide I already cover a big part. I am not sure what exactly you would like to know, so I am sending you now an email. I can then publish our email conversation here, so all readers and Vietnam travelers can benefit!

Talk to you on email, Matt

hi. I am interested in your 15 day itinerary once you have it up and running. That will probably be the most time I can take off work. I will be a solo travelling female.

Hey Krystine,

Will keep you posted 🙂 In the meantime, always check out included map please. We added our favorite Vietnam itinerary. Are you planning to travel by plane, bus, tours, motorbike? This would really change the itinerary. If it is a 15 days trip, I do not recommend the motorbike itinerary. And I recommend flying one part of it. Da Nang in the center and Nha Thrang a bit south are the most commonly used Airports. You can check flights 🙂

Safe travels and talk soon, Matt

Hi I enjoyed you article on Vietnam. My Wife and I will be visiting Vietnam/Cambodia approx end on January to Mid February 2020. I have a couple on questions. The visa and accompanying letter, it was my understanding that if you were arriving by plane there is an automatic visa for 15 days at the airport ? Would we still require an accompanying letter ? Also as we are also visiting Cambodia and returning to Vietnam would we require a further letter ? We will be travelling over night by train and coach in both countries is there any think that we should be aware of. Thanks in advance for your time to answer. Tommy

Hey Thomas,

I wish I could help you here, but truth be told: It always changes!!! First time I arrived we needed an invitation letter. The 2nd time we arrived, we got 30 days for free at the Airport. Plus, on top, it always depends on your own Nationality. We are Europeans.

Best way to get more information is facebook groups!

Hope that helps 🙂 Enjoy Vietnam, it is wonderful! Matt

After reading your blog and getting to know of the Vietnamese experience, I am so thrilled and excited to visit the country myself and experience these! Of course needless to say your ideas have been so much of an eye opener for me, and now I would plan my holidays much wiser!

I was curious about motorbike purchases as I will be in Vietnam for a month or so

Have a look at the facebook groups I mentioned! There is many more motorbike selling groups in Vietnam, even for specific cities like “motorbike sales in Da Nang” or Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and so on. Super helpful and the easiest way to get started!

Safe travels, Matt

Hi, I loved reading all your recommendations! Unfortunately my time in Vietnam is going to be compressed to just a week. I was hoping you could help with with what you thought would be the ideal itinerary for spending just one week in the beautiful country. Thanks!

What are the rules on purchasing/selling a motorcycle/scooter in Vietnam as a foreigner? Is it an easy process? Is there a way to do it legally, or do you just pay off the police if you get stopped?

Hey Charlie,

You can buy a motorbike in Vietnam from whomever you want. All you need is: The Blue Card! Make sure you only buy a motorbike with blue card because the owner of the blue card is the owner of the bike.

As for police, skip Mui Ne. There’s a corrupt police scamming western bikers for money, threatening with jail etc. There is a bunch of info on my article here actually. In general, Police was no issue. They never cared about us. I assume they do not speak English and it’s just a waste of time for then. That being said, we never drink and drive, we never overpacked, we never did anything that would get attention in the first place anyways.

Just join a couple of Facebook Groups, it’s the best way to get up to date information (like this group ) 🙂

Safe travels and cheers from Da Nang, Matt

Hello! I’m planning a trip to Nha Trang and I want to rent a motorbike and drive it to Mui Ne and/or around there, I have a few questions about renting if you would know 🙂 1- Do they take in an ID when you rent a motorbike? I want to rent from Nha Trang and drop it off in Mui Ne, so if I have to go back for an ID that’s not really good. 2- Do they have little trailers to put a bag in, like a “gym bag” type of bag or more than 1 bag and have two people travel on the motorbike with our bags?

Thank you, great read!

There is a couple of companies offering this service. They even bring your luggage to the next spot. The guys are called Easy riders, here is their website .

On the other hand, you could jsut buy a motorbike for max $200 and then sell it again in the destination. This may be cheaper. But of course, it’s a risk that you cannot sell it on time.

About the transport of bags etc, no worries. You will be in Vietnam. Everything is easy to get from A to B…;) you will be using straps to put the bag on your bike. It is really easy. Just make sure you buy a proper rain cover; it helps obviously against the rain but it also important against the dust!

Anything else? Let me know?

Oh and hey, motorbiking Vietnam is AMAZING!!!! Safe travels, Matt

Hi, I’m wanting to travel Vietnam for approximately 3 weeks in late February of 2019. I want to see as much as I can, the tourist spots but mainly the little gems off the beaten track, I’m thinking of buying a motorbike to do this trip. How do you suggest I buy one and the do’s and don’t’s. Staying at hostels mostly, is it safe to leave the bike parked? What’s the costs involved and and the roads and traffic safe to drive in? Thank you!

Hi William,

I really enjoyed reading your extensive review on things to do in Vietnam. Gained a lot of info. Just a couple of questions (I probably may have more a little later)

1) Visiting Ha Long Bay – I plan on going to Vietnam end of December, which I would imagine would be the peak time for tourists. I read on another review that Bai Tu Long Bay is set a little apart from Ha Long Bay and not as crowded as Ha Long Bay, and is regarded as beautiful as a place to visit. Would you agree on this. Also what is the price range for the cruises at Ha long Bay and (if you know) at Bai Tu Long Bay.

2) Food Tours and Food – In your review, I see that you recommend going with a tour guide for this. Are here any recommended companies. I see that XO Foodie Tour is mentioned a few times in other reviews. Does this really matter? Are prices around the same? Does the tour include other tourists as well? Also where is the recommended place to get the best Pho? Any other recommended dished? (except dog)

3) Red Bridge cooking school – Lot of posts also recommended a cooking tour at this place. It is a 4-5 hour class for about 35USD. Would this be on the top of your to-do-list, as I plan on been in Vietnam for 7-8 days only.

4) New Years Eve – Where would you suggest I stay and visit on 31st night? I will be travelling with my parents, so somewhere where everyone can enjoy.

4) Any other recommendations – Please let me know if there is any recommendations you have regarding places in Vietnam. Mainly interested in food, scenaries and history. Not so much into diving and quad biking and kite flyng etc.

Below is a list that I have compiled that I want to consider, (also based on your’s and other reviews) : Ha long Bay – limestone – cruises Bai Tu Long Bay – Halong (Said to be less crowded than Halong Bay, and as beautiful) Ho Chi Minh City and surroundings Saigon Opera House Bonsai dinner cruise on Saigon River Saigon city past & present – War remnants Museum? Ben Thanh Market? Mekong Delta group tour by Le Jarai cruise Hoi An ancient town The farming & fishing life group tour 4 hours hands-on cooking class at Red Bridge Half day morning highlights of Hanoi private 3 hours evening street food walking tour – XO Foodie Tours Ninh Binh full day countryside scenery exploration group tour Package 2 days 1 night to Halong Bay overnight onboard Aphrodite cruise Dalat – Son Doong Cave in the Phong Nha-Khe Bang National Park? War Remnants Museum – HCM City Pho Thin Restaurant – Hanoi

Please let me know regarding my questions, when you get the time.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Send me the smartest newsletter from Hostelgeeks.

Wander-Lush

Where to Go in South Vietnam: 5 Places You Can’t Miss

Planning a trip to Southeast Asia and wondering where to go in south Vietnam? Here are 5 unmissable destinations to add to your Vietnam itinerary.

Vietnam is a diverse country, with distinct climates, cuisines and cultural practices in the north and the south.

If you’re planning a visit to Southeast Asia and you want to come away with a holistic picture of Vietnam, I highly recommend spending some time in both Northern Vietnam and the southern part of the country.

Southern Vietnam has something for every type of traveller – from island beaches to meandering waterways and floating markets, charming UNESCO architecture to high-rise rooftop bars .

More from Vietnam

Discover the best city guides, itineraries, travel tips & hidden gems in my Vietnam Travel Guide.

Here are the must-sees for both first-time travellers to Vietnam and repeat visitors.

About the author: Thanks to Christine from Travellers With Time for sharing 5 places in south Vietnam you absolutely can’t miss!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Planning a trip to SE Asia and wondering where to go in South Vietnam? Here are 5 unmissable destinations, plus recommended activities & accommodations.

Best time to visit Southern Vietnam

The weather patterns for Vietnam are quite unique to each region. In general, the best time to visit Southern Vietnam is from November through until April. This is Vietnam’s high season, and it is the time when you’ll get the best weather across the southern portion of the country.

That being said, the central region of Vietnam, from Hue along the coast to Mui Ne, will be warm and dry for most of the year, although you may find it quite humid in July and August, and wet from then on. From April onwards, the far south, including Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho and Phu Quoc, become humid and wet.

Phu Quoc has a monsoon season, and if you don’t intend to sit in a hotel room, it’s best to avoid Phu Quoc from May to September.

Where to go in South Vietnam: Top 5 destinations

On a tight timeline? Check out my 10 best Vietnam day trips and see how you can pack more into your Vietnam itinerary.

A richly decorated gateway, part of an imperial tomb complex, surrounded by leafy trees.

The city of Hue was home to the last Vietnamese Imperial Dynasty, from 1802-1945, when Emperor Bao Dai abdicated the throne.

The UNESCO World Heritage listed Imperial Citadel is the main draw card today, with millions of travellers visiting each year.

What to do in Hue

The Imperial citadel was the home of the last Emperor and the seat from which he governed. Inside the Imperial Citadel, the Imperial City encompasses many shrines, temples and buildings including the Forbidden Purple City.

The Forbidden Purple City is the inner most city, a private sanctuary for members of the Royal Family.

Scattered throughout the city of Hue are the tombs of previous Emperors. The best tombs to visit in Hue are the tombs of Minh Mang, Tu Duc and Khai Dinh.

Khai Dinh’s tomb in particular is stunningly beautiful, showing his extravagance.

Hue off the beaten path: How to visit the abandoned dragon water park.

The Perfume River runs through Hue and is used to fill the moat surrounding the Imperial Citadel. The river is so named because of the flowers from orchards up river that fall into the water in autumn. The river offers a beautiful stroll along the promenade beside it.

During the Nguyen Dynasty, as home of the Emperor, Hue had some of the best cooks in the country, and some delicious dishes are still local delicacies. Try some Bun Bo Hue, or Banh Beo, a steamed rice cake with topping, usually pork and prawn.

Top Hue experiences

🏙️ UNESCO World Heritage city tour with a private guide & lunch → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🇻🇳 Full-day tour to the DMZ → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🛵 Hue countryside tour by motorbike → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

Where to stay in Hue

For accommodation, try Anh’s Homestay which offers a shared lounge and garden and free WiFi, or the Tam Family Homestay , which is within walking distance of the Imperial City.

A woman rides a bicycle past a row of yellow buildings in Hoi An, Vietnam.

The UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Hoi An is about 120km south of Hue, on the Vietnam coast. Known for its architecturally and historically significant sites, arts and crafts and beautiful beaches, Hoi An is an unmissable stop on a tour of Vietnam.

Travel from Hue to Hoi An by train via Danang (3 hrs; $8), by direct bus (5 hrs; $6) or by taxi (3 hrs; $75). Check prices and reserve tickets on Bookaway .
View my full Da Nang to Hoi An transportation guide .

What to do in Hoi An

Hoi An’s Old Town was a bustling trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries, with spices and ceramics being traded with the rest of Asia.

Traditional old houses and businesses can still be seen lining the Thu Bon River while cobblestone paths and small alley ways are lined with craft and textile shops. Colourful Vietnamese Lanterns adorn the streets and light the way at night.

Take a day to relax and wander the streets of the Old Town, and at night, visit the many restaurants and bars that line the river. If you’re visiting Vietnam with kids , your children will love a trip in the bamboo boats or a hands-on rice farming experience.

If you’re looking for local dishes to try , Cau Lao is a delicious noodle dish from the region. Banh Mi Phuong, made famous by Anthony Bourdain, really does have the best Banh Mi in Vietnam in our opinion.

For a little culture in the Old Town, the Precious Heritage Museum is a must. A huge collection of photos and traditional costumes from many of Vietnam’s minority tribes line the walls of this amazing museum.

French photographer Rehahn spent five years photographing most of Vietnams 54 Ethnic groups and the resulting images are incredible. Some of the traditional outfits inside the museum are the only ones left in the world.

Another cultural attraction most often visited from Hoi An is My Son , the ancient Cham ruins. Not quite as spectacular as the Cambodian temples of Angkor , My Son is still worth a visit if you’re in Vietnam.

The Champa Kingdom existed between the 4th and 14th centuries, with the buildings of My Son constructed over those 10 centuries. Unfortunately, they were damaged during the Vietnam war and only 17 of the 71 original structures are still standing.

Just outside Hoi An is An Bang beach, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches. Relax on a beach chair sipping coconut or explore the A Bang tourist area where you’ll find plenty of resort style accommodation.

For the green thumb, the Tra Que farming village lies between Hoi An town and An Bang. Wander the fields and see traditional methods for growing vegetables, or join a farm tour.

Top Hoi An experiences

🍜 Market tour & cooking class → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🎨 Explore Hoi An’s craft villages by boat → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🌾 Hoi An countryside morning bicycle tour → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

Where to stay in Hoi An

The My House Hoi An Homestay is located in the Ancient Town, only a few hundred meters form all the main attractions, shops, restaurants and bars.

Closer to An Bang beach, the Hoi An Sea Village Homestay is near the beach and close to the stores and other amenities.

3. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

A brick church with a statue of Mary at the front and high-rise buildings in the background.

The dazzling, frantic city of Ho Chi Minh is the most populous and most visited city in Vietnam. A mix of history and heritage, and modern urbanisation it is easy to get lost in the fast pace and overwhelmed by the surroundings.

It takes a special kind of nerve to cross the street for the first time, and yet the city draws you out, calling you to explore.

Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as Saigon, and the more you explore the southern portions of Vietnam the more you’ll hear it still referred to that way. It was the capital of South Vietnam and the home of the government until the end of the Vietnam War.

Travel from Hoi An to Saigon by overnight train via Danang (18 hrs; $38), by overnight bus (22 hrs; $21) or by plane (1.5 hrs; from $24). Check prices and book tickets on Bookaway .

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Visits to the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels are a great way to learn a little about Vietnam’s history and the Vietnam War. The view points here are naturally a little one sided so it helps to take away the bigger picture rather than some of the details.

Some parts of the War Remnants Museum are particularly disturbing while the Cu Chi Tunnels is undeniably interesting.

The Reunification Palace or Independence Palace, was the home and office of the South Vietnam President during the Vietnam war, and technically also where the war ended, as North Vietnamese Tanks broke through the gates. Kept in its original state the Palace is beautiful and a fascinating insight into design of the era.

One of the most beautiful pagodas to see in Ho Chi Minh City is the Jade Emperor Pagoda. A Taoist pagoda with hundreds of Tao and Buddhist deities, both beautiful and horrifying, lining the walls. Inside an inner sanctuary is the Jade Emperor, surrounded by a swirl of incense.

For dinner, the Benh Tanh Street Food Market is an enormous market of food stalls with food from every continent. A selection of Vietnamese and Asian delicacies, fresh seafood, desserts and local beer, you can eat until your heart is content.

One of the beautiful things about Ho Chi Minh City is that in the middle of all the madness, there are parks. Green, quiet, peaceful sanctuaries where you’ll find locals sitting around, or maybe doing Tai Chi. If the hustle and bustle get too much, you’ll find solace inside these areas, including one of the most popular, Tao Dan Park.

Top Saigon experiences

🍖 Saigon street food tour → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🍹 Saigon Sky Deck skip-the-line ticket → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🛕 Cao Dai Temple & Cu Chi Tunnels day trip → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

The backpacker and main tourism district of Ho Chi Minh City is the Pham Ngu Lao ward, in District 1. In the centre of this area, off Pham Ngu Lao is Baoanh Hostel , close to the restaurants and bars but in a quieter street.

On the opposite side of the Saigon River, District 3 is known for its colonial architecture. It’s also close to many of the usual tourist sites such as the Ben Thanh Market. The Hello Saigon Homestay is in a great District 3 location.

Men unload watermelons and other fruit at a floating market in Can Tho, Vietnam.

Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta and the fourth largest city in Vietnam. It is the perfect mix of traditional Vietnamese culture and lifestyle and modernised tourist infrastructure, managing to maintain a relaxed, local feel while catering to the many Mekong Deltas visitors.

Travel from Saigon to Can Tho by bus (4 hrs; $8) or private taxi (3 hrs; from $109). Check prices and book tickets on Bookaway .

What to do in Can Tho

One of the highlights of Can Tho is a boat tour of the Cai Rang Floating Markets. Hundreds of boats filled with fresh produce meet in the centre of the Hau River to trade their goods with travellers and other Vietnamese alike.

While it’s interesting to see the Cai Rang Floating Market, the real highlight is taking a tour that takes you down the picturesque back canals of Can Tho. Generally, a 3-4-hour tour will include the Cai Rang market only, as it is about a 45-minute boat Ride from Ninh Kieu wharf where the boats leave. Book a longer tour to see more of Can Tho’s rural river life.

Aside from floating down the river, there are plenty of interesting temples in Can Tho. The Ong Temple is right near Ninh Kieu Wharf. A couple of kilometres away is the Binh Thuy Temple which is also worth a visit.

About a kilometre from the Binh Thuy Temple is the Binh Thuy Ancient House. The house has been in the Duong family for six generations. The inside of the house is like an amazing antique store, filled with all kinds of pieces featuring both French, Chinese and traditional Vietnamese design.

At night, the boardwalk along the river and Ninh Kieu Wharf is the place to be. There are some bars and restaurants opposite the water, and the boardwalk will take you along the river down a lit path past some beautiful gardens and nice resorts.

Top Can Tho experiences

🛥️ Mekong Delta small group boat tour → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🚣‍♂️ Mekong Delta & floating market tour with transfers from HCMC → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🚲 Explore the Mekong Delta by bicycle → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

Where to stay in Can Tho

It’s easy to get comfortable in Can Tho. The Emerald Boutique Stay is located only 600 meters from Ninh Kieu Pier and other Can Tho attractions.

Moving a little further out of Can Tho City and into the more rural surrounds, the Boutique Lodge Can Tho Homestay offers a beautiful getaway 10km outside the city. With garden surrounds and views of canals and rice fields you’ll see the most beautiful parts of rural Can Tho.

5. Phu Quoc Island

A green house on a sandy beach with tall palm trees in the background.

Phu Quoc is located at the bottom of southern Vietnam. A large island with beautiful beaches Phu Quoc is fast becoming the Resort capital of Vietnam. Not untouched by tourism, and rubbish, it can be a little disheartening however there is plenty of Phu Quoc to celebrate and enjoy.

Travel from Can Tho to Phu Quoc via Rach Gia by bus + ferry (5.5 hrs; $25). Check prices and book tickets on Bookaway .

What to do on Phu Quoc

One thing you can’t miss on Phu Quoc are the beaches. The most popular beach is Long Beach as it is lined with accommodation options and is near the centre of town. Sao beach is also a popular option, although very busy. If you’re after quiet seclusion, Cua Can or Vang Bau are lovely.

Another great beach is Rach Vem, or star fish beach where the sand is covered with star fish at low tide. It’s great to see them but remember not to lift them out of the sea. The water around Phu Quoc is fairly flat, and very warm. It’s the perfect way to spend a few days.

The An Thoi Marine archipelago are a series of islands off of Phu Quoc that form a marine reserve. You can take a boat trip out to the islands to go snorkelling . The calm clear water provides great visibility.

The Dinh Cau Night Market is where you’ll find delicious local dishes and plenty of sea food, just caught in the waters further off Phu Quoc Island. You’ll also find some of the more unusual Vietnamese foods on the menu.

Top Phu Quoc experiences

🐟 Snorkelling tour of the islands → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🌅 Sunset cruise & squid fishing experience → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

🌴 Island tour with a local → Check prices & availability on Get Your Guide

Where to stay on Phu Quoc

Accommodation is spread out across Phu Quoc Island with resorts lining the beaches and more varied accommodation options being found in Duong Dong, the main town. The Lana Land Phu Quoc Homestay is walking distance to Long Beach and a couple of kilometres from the Night Market.

For something a little more relaxed and natural, the Phu Quoc Eco Lodge is within walking distance of both Cua Can and Ong Lang beach, but still only 10km from the Duong Dong Night Market.

There are so many wonderful places to go in Vietnam, you could easily spend years travelling through the country and not see half of it! These places to visit in south Vietnam will give you a great feel for the country and take you to some of it’s most fascinating locations.

Vietnam essentials

Here are the booking sites and services I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam .

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Vietnam using Skyscanner .

VIETNAM VISA: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Vietnam and apply for an expedited e-visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation if required.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Pre-book a private hotel transfer from Hanoi Airport or Ho Chi Minh City Airport via Get Your Guide.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Vietnam online before you go. My top choice is the Asia Link Regional eSIM by Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Vietnam on Agoda or book a Vietnam hostel .

TRAIN TICKETS: Reserve your Vietnam Rail tickets for the train to Sapa , Da Nang, Hue or Saigon via 12GoAsia.

BUS TICKETS: Buy your domestic bus or plane tickets in advance using 12GoAsia or Bookaway .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Vietnam on Cookly. Here are my top 15 Vietnam food experiences to help you decide.

DAY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Vietnam on Get Your Guide. Check out my top 10 best Vietnam day trips for more inspiration.

HALONG BAY: Consult my comprehensive Halong Bay guide to find the best cruises & tours.

VIETNAM GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Vietnam .

Heading to Phnom Penh next? Check out my Cambodia guides

The perfect Phnom Penh itinerary
Where to stay in Phnom Penh
The best city & day tours in Phnom Penh
51 free things to do in Phnom Penh
Where to eat Cambodian food in Phnom Penh
How to use PassApp to get around in Cambodia
My guide to Kampot , Cambodia’s river town
My guide to Kampong Cham , my favourite provincial town

Where to go in south Vietnam: Pin it!

Ver Interesting information. I plan to visit Vietnam in November. I have not yet booked though as friends have told me that the weather is not kind for tourists until January onwards

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Vietnam again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

– Veronika

This was an interesting article, with lovely detail and it summarised the must see’s really well, I found it by chance researching my holiday for next summer. I was shocked however that you have an affiliate link to Kiwi.Com. This is a disingenuous company that have ripped many many people off using Covid as an excuse, flights were cancelled due to Covid and they haven’t processed refunds and don’t respond to messages. It’s disappointing that you don’t research companies before associating with them and I urge that you don’t recommend them any longer to save others taking your recommendation and being thousands of pounds out of pocket. If any readers of this blog are thinking about using Kiwi, don’t just take my word for it, I urge you to research them, look at TrustPilot, their FB pages, Google reviews.

Hi Audrey, thanks for your comment. I can assure you that I do my best to thoroughly research all companies I recommend, but this was an oversight on my part. I have not had a chance to follow up on these SE Asia articles post-pandemic. Very sorry to see that Kiwi has gone downhill. I will not be recommending them again.

Have a wonderful trip to Vietnam!

I enjoyed this article and share your travel experiences and the destinations you describe. Saigon is a bustling city with a sea of motorbikes. Phu Quoc was beautiful and enjoyed my beachfront property. Hospitality was wonderful in both destinations and the locals were welcoming. The War Museum us absolutely one-sided…tourists beware, it is not for the faint of heart. Cu Chi tunnels are interesting and the ride to and from are definitely worth experiencing.

Terrific suggestions, thank you Artrice!

This is really helpful for my upcoming trip this December. Can’t wait to visit this beautiful country! Thank you very much for your post.

You’re welcome Michelle! I hope you get to visit South Vietnam 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to future posts

The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Best Party Destinations in Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the most essential stops on any South East Asia backpacking trip. Like the rest of South East Asia, Vietnam has quite a few things that backpackers hold dear. Gorgeous beaches, otherworldly sights , a fun-loving culture, and of course, cheap beer. Alcohol is so cheap in Vietnam that hostels often just give it away. Everywhere I stayed in Vietnam, there would be an hour or two each night where beer was just free. The alcohol was free-flowing and the nightlife was poppin’. As far as party destinations in South East Asia go, you can’t go wrong with Vietnam.

There are an abundance of places to party in Vietnam, but as a backpacker, you’ll want to hit these places up. Whether your scene is a karaoke bar or huffing balloons on a pub crawl, Vietnam’s got you covered.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World , and rightfully so. This might be the most beautiful place you visit in all of South East Asia. With it being such a hot destination, travelers often make the mistake of booking in advance, oftentimes, choosing an over-touristy cruise that just kind of ruins the fun. If you are a young backpacker or solo traveler, you are going to want to do it right.

Castaway or Hideaway are two options ran by two different backpacker hostels in Hanoi, and they are your best bet for having an unforgettable time in Ha Long Bay. You might not think of Ha Long Bay as a party destination, but hey, if you’re going to be on a boat all day, why not turn it into a booze cruise? Swimming in the waters, gawking at the limestone karsts, and capping the day off with some sunset beers on your own private island is the way to do Ha Long Bay properly.

Da Lat is one of the more overlooked destinations in Vietnam . Among backpackers, there just doesn’t seem to be enough to draw travelers in. Some come for the Crazy House and Crazy Bar and then leave after a day or so. It’s fair, but still, I think a stop in Da Lat is more than warranted. I did visit the Crazy Bar, and while it lacked a crowd, it definitely was one of the most interesting places I’ve ever drank. A few drinks here before moving onto one of Da Lat’s livelier venues is a perfect way to break up the lengthy bus journey to Ho Chi Minh City. The weather, the lush rolling hills, and vibrant nightlife scene make Da Lat more than a worth layover.

Hoi An is Vietnam’s top backpacker haven . While small, Hoi An packs a punch. You can laze away the day at one of the nearby beaches before taking a leisurely stroll through the extensive night markets. Of course, the lanterns are the biggest draw for most travelers, and they provide a one-of-a-kind ambiance that you can only experience in Hoi An. The bustling night markets set the stage for a lively nightlife scene.

Backpackers and other young travelers will typically flock to the Tiger Tiger bars, even though there are many more to choose from. The hostels in Hoi An also know how to party right, and if you’re looking for cheap alcohol and a fun crowd, look no further. Sunflower Hostel and Vietnam Backpackers are two of the most fun hostels in Hoi An. Each offers some crazy cheap drink deals. For solo travelers, it will take no time at all to find a group to go out with.

Hoi An’s nightlife usually lasts around 3 AM, at which point the crowd starts to thin and make their way home. No night is complete without a banh mi, though, so make sure to grab a bite to prevent a hangover the following morning.

The coastal city of Nha Trang might be the closest thing Vietnam has to the stereotypical beach party destination. Since it is a larger city, Nha Trang isn’t on most backpackers’ radars, but it is popular among a few crowds. It’s huge among Russians, for some reason. The sparkling blue waters and abundance of beach clubs make it a great stop for anyone seeking out a more typical beach holiday.

To this day, I can’t get over the nightlife of Hanoi. Not that it stands out as one of the best in the world, but it surely is one of the weirdest. I’ve had some memorable nights in Hanoi, and not always in a good way. One night, I got lost and found myself roaming the market streets at around 4 AM. Butchers were unpacking their trucks and lining their stalls with skinned animals. I felt like I was in a horror movie, lost, alone, and surrounded by bloody animals and butchers.

Thankfully, I made it home eventually, and didn’t have any more issues with Hanoi’s nightlife. Jokes. I definitely did. The thing with Hanoi is that the nightlife technically is supposed to shut down around midnight. The cops will shut down the bars and the bustling Beer Street becomes a ghost down. At least, it does on the surface. Behind closed doors, the party rages on. The bars and clubs smuggle people from the streets inside and shut the metal gates to give police patrols the impression that they’re closed.

That’s how it is in the Old Quarter, at least. I’ve been to other bars in Hanoi that seemed to have no issues with partying on all night. It’s hard to know the deal, especially as a traveler. Again, staying at a hostel gives you the local down-low on the nightlife scene, and some party hostels in Hanoi host bar crawls so you can take on Hanoi’s strange nightlife scene with fewer problems than I had.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Honestly, nothing else on this list even comes close to Saigon’s nightlife scene . Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest and most modern city. The nightlife scene here is closer to what you’ll find in other bustling South East Asian party capitals like Bangkok and Singapore. For late night venues ranging from all types of music styles, Ho Chi Minh City is your best bet. I capped off my Vietnam trip with a night out in Saigon and I was definitely Sai-gone out of my mind by the end of the night.

A lot of backpackers tend to skip over big cities, Ho Chi Minh City included. However, I welcomed the change as Saigon was the first taste of modernity I had experienced since Chiangmai in Thailand nearly two months prior. Take advantage of all the fun things this cosmopolitan city has to offer. It’s got the best food, the best nightlife, and some of the best places to stay in all of Vietnam.

There’s nothing quite like the killer one-two combo of being drunk and eating a banh mi, a combo that can only authentically be found in Vietnam. While it may not have the world-renowned parties like Thailand or the luxurious beach clubs of Bali, Vietnam more than suffices for the traveler who likes to party. With free-flowing cheap beer, any destination can be a party destination, and Vietnam’s got some of the cheapest alcohol you’ll find in South East Asia.

More on Vietnam

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

More on South East Asia

Share this:, 15 thoughts on “ the best party destinations in vietnam ”.

It seems such a distant destination, so unreachable, tropical destinations always do this effect … thanks for your suggestions!

We have been to a lot of these places but didn’t realise that so many of these were also good party destinations too! I guess we will have to check out some of the parties next time we are out in Asia.

I’ve always wanted to visit Vietnam. My parents were meant to go this year on a trip but because of COVID it’s been cancelled. I’ll pop this post to my mum because they’re going next year instead. This will give her more ideas!

I like to travel to Vietnam to see these places. Not really to party, but just to experience the culture and of course, the food. Bookmarking this article for reference.

oh wow!!! I would love love love to spend a couple of months in Vietnam, I haven’t been! Such a beautiful country.

I would love to visit Vietnam one day. It seems like a lovely place.

I’ve heard that Vietnam is such a beautiful destination! I would love to travel there one day.

My goodness what a beautiful, bustling city. I’ve never been but its not what I was expecting Vietnam to look like!

HCM is the ultimate nightlife spot. Hanoi might be a distant second

These sound like fun places to visit. Definitely all very unique places to check out! It would be amazing to travel to Vietnam.

Vietnam is absolutely on my “bucket list” of travel destinations. Such history, beauty, and culture – thank you for sharing this information!

Well I’ve been to vietnam long time back. Big cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are now full of lively pubs, clubs and bars. The same applies to many tourist destinations such as Halong Bay, Mui Ne and Phan Thiet. The good news is that it’s not particularly expensive to go out at night as Vietnam brews some of the cheapest draft beer in the world.

Parties shut down on my island at 04:00 AM. I’ve had some pretty weird experiences exploring the night life in Caribbean destinations. LOL. If I ever make it out over there, I’ll be sure to plan for Saigon 🙂

LOVE Vietnam! Great food, great people and super cheap – ideal for backpackers!

Do you have any suggestions on where to be for XMAS and NYE? I love the beach but want to party 2021 out of my system!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from the partying traveler.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

7 romantic destinations in Vietnam

Photo by Christian Berg

In Vietnam, romantic dates go beyond candlelit dinners. Whether you prefer breathtaking views of cascading rice terraces, or floating in a surreal bay dotted with limestone karsts, Vietnam is chock-full of extraordinary ways to celebrate a special occasion with that special someone. Below are seven of the most romantic destinations in Vietnam.

Hội an .

Known for its blazing pink bougainvillea flowers and rustic yellow walls, the Ancient Town of Hội An has no shortage of lovely dating spots. Summer months are especially colourful, with all kinds of blossoms showing off their brightest shades including Chinese honeysuckle, golden shower, peacock flower, and three different types of bougainvillea. During the day, take a boat trip along the Hoài River to share some tranquil moments, or rent a bicycle and ride to An Bàng beach, passing vast rice fields and the occasional water buffalos.

At night, silk and paper lanterns light up the town and give the streets a shimmering glow. You will find both banks of the Hoài River dotted with cosy restaurants and cafes where you two can make the most of the glistening scene.

Vietnam's former imperial capital is an atmospheric spot for couples who love exploring culture and history. Huế 's Citadel and the tombs of Nguyễn Kings are some of the country's most well-preserved heritage sites. Despite their popularity, the attractions in Huế have been able to maintain a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Learn about Vietnam's imperial legacy while strolling amidst plumeria blossoms, ancient stone statues, take a sunset boat ride on the Perfume River, or dine in style at elegant colonial-era hotels on its banks.

From the city, a short drive will take you to the pine-covered Thiên An Hill. Pack a picnic lunch and you two can kick back with slow hours under the trees. In fact, slow living is guaranteed no matter where you are in Huế.

For the ultimate sundowners by the beach, head to Phú Quốc Island . This tropical paradise boasts magical sunsets in hues of gold, pink, and purple. Resorts like InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort go out of their way to accommodate couples looking to have a private dinner on the beach, but you can also enjoy gorgeous sunsets at striking venues such as the Rock Island Club or Sailing Club .

Of course, when it comes to acts of romance, a simple walk on the beach is still a classic. Ông Lang Beach is lined with rustling pine trees and emits a laid-back vibe, making it an ideal spot for peaceful walks.

There’s a reason Hanoi is featured in countless Vietnamese love songs. The capital exudes romance. Discover hidden vintage cafés at the end of leafy alleyways, or amble along the many breezy lakes sprinkled throughout the city. In the fall, when Hanoi is bathed in crisp sunlight and golden leaves, hop on a cyclo to tour the Old Quarter. You will notice local wives and husbands-to-be appreciating the scene themselves by having their pre-wedding photos taken around Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

Ditch the fancy restaurants and go on a more casual date with your other half by pulling up a stool right on the sidewalk. After all, you are in Vietnam's street food capital! Savour a delicious bowl of phở on a tiny plastic table, surrounded by the ubiquitous chaos of Vietnam's big cities.

Tucked away in Khanh Hoa Province, Cam Ranh is often overlooked in favour of its neighbour Nha Trang . For couples looking for quality time away from the world, that's a good thing. Empty beaches, sweet sea breezes and captivating views of fishing villages are a few things you can expect here. Cam Ranh is favoured by a number of luxury resorts, making it the perfect choice for a stress-free couples escape.

The Hon Ba Nature Reserve nearby offers trekkers a healthy diversion, and if you're up for a spot of nightlife, the rooftop and beach bars of the city are just a hour's drive away. Spend a few days ensconced in a beachfront villa, taking dipping in a private plunge pool and attending the spa at Mia Resort , a dreamy escape ideal for romantic occasions.

Pù Luông

If you’ve never heard of Pù Luông before, it's because those who have been here only want to keep this slice of heaven for themselves. Stay at one of the ethnic stilt houses that encircle the valley, and take in refreshing views of the rice paddies every morning when you wake up. A hot cup of tea out on the terrace in Pù Luông is one of those little pleasures in life that’s even better when shared with a soulmate.

Bring home a piece of the wonderful memories you have here by joining a weaving, embroidery, or basket-making class with the ethnic Thai. You can also break a sweat hiking to the top of Mt. Pù Luông or go swimming in the dreamy Hiêu Waterfall.

Gulf of Tonkin

There are many ways to travel the otherworldly Hạ Long Bay , but the most romantic is still on a luxury cruise. The multi-day voyage by Âu Cơ Cruises serves up not only memorable adventures among some of Vietnam's most incredible scenery; but you’ll also be spoiled with tasty food, open-air Jacuzzi baths, and lazy sunbathing sessions on the deck.

Lesser-known Lan Hạ Bay and Bái Tử Long Bay offer more secluded spots to soak up the mesmerizing seascapes. Venture out to explore mossy caves, dreamy lagoons and tiny islets on your own tandem kayak.

In the 1930s, Vietnam's last emperor Bảo Đại chose to build his summer palace in Đà Lạt to spend time with Queen Nam Phương, and it’s easy to see why. The city ' s year-round cool weather means flowers are always in full bloom here. During the colonial period, French officials commissioned beautiful villas and mansions in the hills of Đà Lạt, many of which have been renovated and brought back to life as nostalgic bed-and-breakfasts.

Đà Lạt was the first city in Vietnam to have tandem bicycles for love birds to ride around the serene Xuân Hương Lake. The misty Tuyền Lâm Lake is a local favourite for small BBQs, fishing, or boating. Sleep in style, then wake up together to a glorious sunrise above the clouds.

Want more Vietnam travel ideas? Sign up for our newsletter to receive our best stories in your inbox.

You are here:
Things to do

Create an account

Already have an account? Click here to sign in

By clicking submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Forgot password? Click here to get it back

Don't have an account? Sign up here

Forgot Password

The entered email has subscribed for Vietnam Tourism monthly newsletter

2 Weeks for Couple
2 Weeks for Family
Thailand Lantern Festival
Indonesia(Bali)
South Korea
China (HK, Taiwan)
Itinerary Ideas
Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
Thailand Travel Reviews
Vietnam Travel Reviews
Cambodia Travel Reviews
Japan Travel Reviews
Myanmar Travel Reviews
China Travel Reviews

10 Days in Vietnam: 5 Best Itineraries in 2024/2025

Wondering how to spend 10 days in Vietnam? Vietnam is a dream destination that includes everything from karst scenery and ancient towns to big cities and pristine beaches. Spending 10 days in Vietnam would give you the chance to sample all that the country has to offer…

In this article, we've described five magical 10-day Vietnam itineraries, to help you get some ideas for your dream trip.

Itinerary #1: A Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary
Itinerary #2: 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary with Sapa
Itinerary #3: 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary for Family
Itinerary #4: 10-Day Northern & Central Vietnam
Itinerary #5: 10-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary
How Much Does a 10-Day Trip in Vietnam Cost?

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Itinerary #1. A Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

From the charming capital city of Hanoi to the ancient town of Hoi An , the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City , and the peaceful Mekong Delta , this itinerary covers the most popular destinations in Vietnam.

Days 1–2: Explore the charming capital city of Hanoi
Day 3: Halong Bay, one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders
Days 4–5: Hoi An, a charming town with a well-preserved Old Town.
Days 6–7: Ho Chi Minh City
Days 8–9: The Mekong Delta
Day 10: Departure

You'll explore the charming Old Quarter of Hanoi, take a cruise in the stunning Halong Bay, visit the well-preserved Old Town of Hoi An, and learn about the country's history in Ho Chi Minh City. You'll also experience local life and culture in the Mekong Delta at a floating market.

For a special experience, we can arrange many unique and authentic activities , such as paddling a Vietnamese basket boat to a fishing village and trying your hand at casting local fishing nets, indulging in a foodie tour, or taking a cooking class.

This itinerary is perfect for families or retired couples who want to experience the diversity of Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty in a short amount of time. With comfortable accommodations, private transportation, and knowledgeable guides, you'll have a hassle-free and unforgettable Vietnam trip.

You can contact us to tailor-make a tour for you if the above itinerary does not meet your requirements.

Itinerary #2. 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary with Sapa

This 10-day Vietnam itinerary with Sapa can be a great option for couples and families who are looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation . The itinerary covers some of the most popular destinations in Vietnam, from the charismatic capital city of Hanoi to the stunning natural wonders of Halong Bay , history-filled Hoi An , and the picturesque town of Sapa .

Days 1–3: Hanoi
Days 4–5: Sapa, a town in the mountains of north Vietnam
Days 6–7: Halong Bay, one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders
Days 8–9: Hoi An, a charming town with a well-preserved old district
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City

In this itinerary, you'll start in Hanoi , exploring its charming Old Quarter and enjoying its street food. Then, you'll take an overnight train north to the mountain town Sapa, where you can go hiking to discover north Vietnam's ethnic culture and stunning scenery.

The trekking in Sapa can be a great adventure for couples and families who enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors. The overnight train to Sapa can also be a fun experience for families with children.

Next, you'd cruise around Halong Bay 's karst island wonders. After that, you'd fly to Da Nang on your way to Hoi An in central Vietnam, where insight-filled visits would unlock this town's essence: visit its Japanese Covered Bridge, Fukian Assembly Hall, and Old House of Tan Ky.

Finally, you'll fly to Ho Chi Minh City and visit its interesting highlights: the War Remnants Museum, the General Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Reunification Palace.

The itinerary also includes some cultural experiences , such as visiting local markets in Sapa. A cooking class in Hoi An could be a fun activity for couples and families who enjoy learning about local cuisine.

Itinerary #3. 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary for Family with Teenagers

This 10-day itinerary covering Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta is a great option for families with teenagers who want to explore Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty .

Days 1–2: Arrival, Hanoi city tour
Day 3: Ninh Binh day tour
Day 4-5: Halong Bay cruise
Day 6: Hoi An
Day 7-8: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 9-10: The Mekong Delta

The itinerary includes a mix of city tours, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, making it a great way to keep teenagers engaged and interested throughout the trip. From exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to cruising through the stunning limestone cliffs of Halong Bay, there's something for everyone on this itinerary.

In addition, the itinerary includes a day trip to Ninh Binh, where you'll take a leisurely rowing-boat ride through an amazing tunnel cave and along a picturesque karst river. This is a great opportunity for families to get out of the city and experience Vietnam's natural beauty.

The itinerary also includes two days in Hoi An, where you can experience interesting activities , such as cycling the picturesque country roads, paddling a Vietnamese basket boat to a fishing village and trying your hand at casting local fishing nets, and enjoying an evening foodie walk.

To finish off, you would have a day trip to the Mekong Delta, where you'd take a boat trip to visit local villages and markets . This is a great way for families to learn about Vietnam's rural culture and way of life.

Itinerary #4. 10-Day Northern & Central Vietnam: History, Culture, and Nature

This 10-day itinerary will take you to see the highlights of northern and central Vietnam . It will give you a deeper discovery of Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty in just 10 days.

Day 1-2: Hanoi
Day 3-4: Halong Bay
Day 5: Dong Hoi
Day 6-7: Hue
Day 8-9: Hoi An

One of the highlights of this itinerary is the Halong Bay Cruise , where you will spend a night on a boat and explore the stunning limestone cliffs and caves of Halong Bay. Travel with us to take a more-private-and-authentic craft (half the size of the usual group-tour boat) and explore the unspoiled areas of Halong Bay by junk.

Another highlight of this itinerary is visiting the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features stunning caves and underground rivers. This is a great opportunity for travelers who love adventure and exploring the outdoors.

Finally, visiting the Old Town of Hoi An is a great way to experience Vietnam's traditional architecture and culture . More interesting activities, such as an enjoying an evening foodie tour or taking a sunset cruise, would enrich your stay in Hoi An.

These highlights, combined with the other cultural experiences and outdoor activities included in the itinerary, make it a great option for families and couples who want to experience the best of northern and central Vietnam.

You can adjust the itinerary to your preferences and add or remove destinations as needed.

Itinerary #5. 10-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary: Mekong Delta Tour & Beach Holiday

If you want a relaxed pace of travel , this 10-day itinerary is perfect for you. It focuses on southern Vietnam and takes you to explore the region's rich culture, authentic local life, and stunning beaches.

Day 1-2: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 3-4: The Mekong Delta
Day 5-9: Phu Quoc free days
Day 10: Back to Ho Chi Minh; departure

Starting and ending in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh , this itinerary takes you on a journey to explore the local markets and way of life in the Mekong Delta region . After immersing yourself in the culture and scenery of the delta, you'd finish your trip with some dreamy relaxation on the tropical shores of Phu Quoc , sipping cocktails and soaking up the sun.

How Much Is a 10-Day Vietnam Tour?

Vietnam is a highly-affordable country that caters to a wide range of budgets. Whether you're looking for accommodation, restaurants, attractions, or tours, you'll find options that fit your budget.

For a 10-day private tour in Vietnam, the cost per person can range from approximately 1,000 to 3,500 USD, depending on whether you prefer budget or luxury options.

For a medium budget, touring Vietnam typically costs around US$ 200-250 per day per person (including airfares within Vietnam, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).
For a higher budget of US$250-350 per day per person , more comfort can be enjoyed (including airfares within Vietnam, 5-star or higher hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).

Travel with us to enjoy a comfortable and flexible private tour.

You're in Good Hands with Asia Highlights

At Asia Highlights we have lots of experience with creating the perfect trip for any traveler. We understand what makes traveling special and are dedicated to providing a unique and special experience.

Get a wonderful Vietnam vacation started by sending us a message . Or check out more of our Vietnam sample itineraries or Southeast Asia itineraries for inspiration:

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

Save Your Time:
Less research, more enjoyment!
Real-time 1V1 expert planning
Maximize Your Flexibility:
Personal local guide and ride
Explore at your own pace
Celebrate Your Journeys:
Specially-crafted family adventures
Celebrate milestones with style!
10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta
15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
19-Day Highlights Tour of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
14-Day Classic Vietnam and Thailand Tour
7 Days in Vietnam: 6 Best Itinerary Ideas for First Timers, Families and Couples
How to Plan a Thailand and Vietnam Trip (2024/2025): 10 Days, 2, 3 Weeks Itineraries
How to Visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam 2024: 10, 14 and 21-Day Itinerary Ideas
Vietnam Weather in January 2025: Cool & Dry, Best Places to Go
Vietnam Weather in February: Cool & Dry, Insider Tips for Peak Season
Vietnam Weather in March
Vietnam Weather in April 2024: Insider Tips
Vietnam Weather in May 2024: Best Places to Go
Vietnam Weather in June: Hot & Rainy? Best Places to Go
Vietnam Weather in July: Too Hot & Rainy? Best Places to Go and Travel Tips
Vietnam Weather in August: Too Hot & Rainy? Best Places to Go
Vietnam Weather in September: Still Rainy? Best Places to Go
Vietnam Weather in October: Still Rain? Where to Visit?
Vietnam Weather in November, Travel Tips for First-Timers
Vietnam Weather in December 2024, Travel Tips for First-Timers

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

Middle East
African Safari
Travel Agents
Loyalty Program
Our Differences
Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

Best Places for Nightlife in Vietnam

Amazing nightlife in vietnam, here is the list of 7 best places for nightlife in vietnam, 1. hoi an - a happening ancient city.

The Ancient streets of Hoi An paint a picturesque sight during the day, but when the sun sets, the old town acquires an entirely different vibe. Trendy bistros, cafes, live music bars and artistic lounges come to life, and the bustling streets of the Ancient Town and the Riverside transform into a vibrant display of colourful lanterns, traditional folk dance performances, street-side stalls and lit candles floating on the river. Top Places: Dive Bar, Zero Sea Mile Beach Club

2. Hanoi - The Big City Nightlife Experience

Known For : Old Quarter Hanoi Hoan Kiem Lake Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Hanoi has one of the most glitzy and glamorous nightlife in Vietnam. Are you someone who likes to dance the night away? Or do you prefer relaxing at a pub with a beer in hand? Are you on a budget? Or are you an expat who has no qualms about expenses? No matter what kind of a party-er you are Hanoi's got you covered! Top Places: Bia Hoi Junction, Hair of the Dog

Best Time: October to April

83 Hanoi Attractions

3. Ho Chi Minh City - A Tourist Classic

The nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City is vast, thriving and active, with a plethora of options for all kinds of people. With the unbelievable prices of Vietnam, the city of Saigon can satisfy whatever your idea of a perfect night out is, be it dancing the night away to the latest tunes or drinking unlimited beer. Whether you are on a budget or willing to spend as you please, Ho Chi Minh City has it all for you! Top Places: Chill Skybar, Lush Nightclub, Apocalypse Now

4. Phan Thiet - Beach Parties and More

Known For : Fairy Stream Ta Cu Mountain

A little coastal town in Vietnam, Phan Thiet is nothing too fancy when spoken about the nightlife in Vietnam. With plenty of restaurants and shacks, you have the luxury of enjoying a few drinks while facing the beach and treating yourself to some divine seafood. Although there are some nightclubs as well. This coastal town is for those whose idea of nightlife is to relax. Top Places: Dragon bar, Deja Vu

Best Time: September to December

2 Phan Thiet Attractions

Vietnam Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Vietnam Package Tour 7 Days: With Excursion to Mekong Delta

Best of vietnam holiday package including halong bay cruise.

Explore Vietnam Holiday Trip with Halong Bay Cruise

Experience the Best of Vietnam - 11 Nights 12 Days

7 Days Package Trip to Vietnam: Free Water Puppet Theatre

Luxury Vietnam Honeymoon: 7 Nights Blissful Package Deal

5. nha trang - coastal town for the party animals.

Known For : Nha Trang Beach Ba Ho Waterfalls Scuba Diving in Nha Trang

One of the most popular cities for nighlife in Vietnam and a favourite for tourists, Nha Trang is a bustling coastal town with a lot of the young backpacker crowd, which adds to the life of the city. From late night restaurants to night markets to the most happening nightclubs in Vietnam, this city has it all. The streets near and along the shorelines are home to small boutiques, spas and cocktail bars. Top Places : Sailing Club, Night Market

Best Time: February to April

41 Nha Trang Attractions

6. Ha Long Bay - Experience A Different Kind Of Nightlife

Known for its beautiful beaches and sightseeing places during the day, Halong Bay is on every tourist's checklist when visiting Vietnam. But after a day of exhaustive tourist-ing, who wouldn't crave a nice cold drink and a bit of fun to end the day. Although not known for its nightlife, the pubs and bars here are packed with tourists in the night. Get a nice waterfront dining experience with that special other to end your night. Top Places: Noble House, Ha Long View Club

7. Da Nang, Vietnam - The City of Bridges and Beaches

Known For : Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills Marble Mountains

This problem was a serious one for most explorers out there till they found the coastal city of Da Nang hidden in Vietnam. This city is the answer to Woody's problem. It is a city that is worth exploring in the daytime as it is lively at night. Da Nang is well known to be one of the French colonial ports and to adorn Buddhist shrines but it has a lesser-known nightlife which is just as enthralling! Top Places: New Phuong Dong Nightclub, Da Nang Night Market

Best Time: February to May

48 Da Nang Attractions

Let us know down in the comment section below which is your favourite destination for nightlife in Vietnam.

This post was published by Shalaka Sen

Share this post on social media Facebook Twitter

Related Collections

Casinos in Vietnam

Travel Tips

Basic Phrases in Vietnamese

Shopping in Vietnam: Top 20 Places for Every Shopaholic

Art & Culture

History of Vietnam: From 3rd BC to 21st Century

Scuba Diving in Vietnam: 8 Best Spots For Exploring The Underwater World

Fairs & Festivals

10 Festivals In Vietnam to Experience the Colour and Culture

Transportation in Vietnam - A Guide to Getting Around in Vietnam

Train Travel in Vietnam: What to Know When You Travel Vietnam By Train

Experiences

Cycling in Vietnam: Best Places in Vietnam For An Ultimate Experience!

10 Places for Trekking and Hiking In Vietnam for Adventure Junkies

Travel Tips To Vietnam That You Must Keep in Mind

Vietnamese Visa For Indians - A Complete Guide

Airports in Vietnam: A Guide to Fast-travel Across the Country

Food & Drink

Beers in Vietnam - A Complete Guide For Lager Lovers

Explore the Unique Vietnamese Art of Water Puppetry!

Trekking in Vietnam - Explore the Enchanting Landscape

17 Delightful Street Food in Hanoi to Treat Your Palate

Wildlife & Nature

10 Landscapes of Vietnam Showing Beautiful Ecological Diversity

Architecture of Vietnam: From Wooden Stilts to Colonial French

Vietnamese Culture Demystified!

Currency Of Vietnam - Vietnamese Dong Exchange, ATMs and Useful Tips

Vegetarian Food in Vietnam: Finding the Vegetarian in Vietnamese Cuisine

Major Religions in Vietnam - Facts And Details

Take A Train From China to Vietnam For An Ultimate Experience

10 Wars in Vietnam - Facts, Dates and Timeline

Street Food in Vietnam: 38 Must Try Vietnamese Dishes

5 Vietnamese Languages for the Polyglot in You

20 Must Visit Museums In Vietnam to Learn Vietnamese History & Culture

10 Best National Parks In Vietnam That Should Be On Your Bucket List

Vietnamese Traditional Dresses: Ao Dai, Non La, Hmong and Cham Ethnic Wear

Comments on this post

Browse package collections, vietnam package collections.

Vietnam Honeymoon Packages

Cambodia Vietnam Tour Packages

Top Listed Packages

Jewels of Cambodia and Vietnam Tour Package With Cruise

Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days with Excursion to Ninh Binh

Vietnam Itinerary 8 Days: With Golden Sand Dunes in Mui Ne

Vietnam Itinerary 6 Days: Best of Northern Vietnam

Vietnam Itinerary 4 Days - Hanoi and Halong Bay

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Best Resorts in Vietnam

Amazing Villas in Vietnam for the Perfect Family Vacation

Quirky Capsule Hotels in Vietnam

Beautiful Homestays in Vietnam for a Cosy Vacation

By Budget Category

Luxury Hotels in Vietnam that Redefine Class and Comfort

Luxury Resorts in Vietnam

By Star Category

5 Star hotels in Vietnam for a Luxurious Getaway

For Special Purposes

Best Beach Resorts in Vietnam

Top Places in Vietnam

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

IMAGES

17 of the Best Things To Do in Vietnam
10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam
Best places to visit in Vietnam
The 10 most beautiful places in Vietnam
25 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam (with Map)
17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

VIDEO

Don’t visit VIETNAM without visiting Hoi An! It’s the most romantic place in Asia #travelshorts
10 Stunning Places in Vietnam You Can't Miss!
Albukhary International University Scholarship for Bachelors, MS |Fully Funded| Malaysia
Top places to visit at Thailand in 2024
Top 10 Must-See Destinations in Vietnam
广西贫困小伙阿雄喜娶越南美娇娘

COMMENTS

Vietnam for a stag/buck's/bachelor party?
Vietnam will be make a hugely memorable stag/buck's bachelor party destination . One of the main differences will be the availability of nightlife that occurs on all days of the week and goes on in to the early hours in all major cities in the country. One of the most stark differences between Europe and Vietnam is the demographics on the ...
10 of the best places to visit in Vietnam
10. Ha Giang. Best for mountain views. Trekking to the minority villages in the hills around Sapa is one of Vietnam's top draws, but the country's trekking capital feels rather commercialized these days. Hikers have to walk further every year to find the rural idyll that first drew people to the northwest.
21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Vietnam (2024 • Insider Guide)
21. Ba Be National Park. Shades of green, with a pop of blue. With postcard-perfect views and many endangered animals, including the Asian black bear and short-tailed pangolin, Ba Be National Park is a beautiful place to visit in Vietnam. It's made up of lush forests, towering karsts, and serene lakes.
33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)
Table of Contents. The Best Things to Do in Vietnam. 1) Explore the World's Biggest Caves in Phong Nha. 2) Check Out Vietnam On a Motorbike. 3) Learn About the Local Culture. 4) Cruise the Mekong Delta. 5) Sandboard Down the Sand Dunes in Mui Ne. 6) Walk the Streets of Hoi An Ancient Town. 7) Go on a Vespa Tour.
The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts
Here are the best times to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, fewer crowds, and activities like hiking in Sa Pa and cruising Ha Long Bay.
17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
4. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. One of the best places to visit in Vietnam for caving, World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a dramatic karst mountain formation honeycombed with huge caverns, which are home to superb stalactite and stalagmite displays.
Study in Vietnam: the ultimate guide for a Bachelor in 2024
The study programmes mainly lead to degrees such as: Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Law (LL.B.), Bachelor of Business (B.BA), amongst others. A one-year honours degree can be achieved after the completion of a regular Bachelors degree in the same field. Sometimes, this means one year of research culminating ...
A guide to visiting Vietnam for the first time
There's a lot to love about travelling in Vietnam, which stretches from the soaring mountains and fascinating ethnic groups of the north to the endless rice paddies and vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south, with more than 3000km of glorious coastline in between. Throw in a good transport infrastructure of buses, trains and flights ...
15 best things to do in Vietnam in 2024
12. Enter the world's largest cave in Phong Nha. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in north central Vietnam is a lost world of jungles and caverns, including the world's largest, Hang Son Doong. The scale of this wonder of nature is simply mind-blowing - a 747 airplane could fly through the cave's main tunnel.
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Vietnam (UPDATED 2024)
See ways to experience (215) 2023. 12. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. 6,601. History Museums. Admission tickets from ₹412. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a unit under Vietnam Academy of Scocial Sciences. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is both a research centre and a public museum exhibiting the ethnic groups of Vietnam.
17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam (+Map)
17. Da Nang. Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang is an energetic coastal city with a historic French colonial port. It is known primarily for its fantastic beaches, including the famous My Khe Beach, which Tripadvisor has named as one of the best beaches in Asia.
17 of the best things to do in Vietnam
9. Go to church, Vietnamese-style. Worshippers inside Cao Dai temple (Shutterstock) Tây Ninh, a busy town on the Mekong Delta, is perhaps the most unlikely holy city on the planet. Here, amongst the busy streets stalls and noisy traffic sits Cao Dai Temple, the Holy See of the Cao Dai religion.
15 Most Beautiful Places To Visit in Vietnam
11. Mekong Delta. Known as the 'Rice Bowl of Vietnam', the Mekong Delta is one of the most scenic regions of Vietnam. A land of winding waterways, mangrove forests, floating markets and lush green rice fields, life here is governed by the ebb and flow of southeast Asia's most iconic river.
12 best places to visit in Vietnam on your next trip
G Adventures' 11-day Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay and trekking Pu Luong tour is one of few that takes in trekking in Pu Luong, an overnight stay, and a barbecue lunch made by local chefs. 4. Bai ...
27 BEST Things to do in Vietnam 2024 (Itinerary
Water Puppet Show. One of the best things to do in Vietnam and Hanoi with kids is this one: A water Puppet theatre! See a unique art form that originates over 1,000 years ago in the Red River Delta. In the past, water puppetry showed the daily life of villagers such as farming, fishing and romance.
7 Days in Vietnam: 6 Best Itinerary Ideas for First Timers, Families
Here is a sample itinerary for reference: Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi. Day 2: Hanoi city sightseeing. Day 3: A day tour to immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside of Ninh Binh. Day 4: Unveil Vietnam's hill tribe culture with a valley cycling tour in Mai Chau. Day 5: Discover a H'mong Village during a mountain walk.
Where to Go in South Vietnam: 5 Places You Can't Miss
2. Hoi An. Hoi An Ancient Town is a must-visit in Vietnam. The UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Hoi An is about 120km south of Hue, on the Vietnam coast. Known for its architecturally and historically significant sites, arts and crafts and beautiful beaches, Hoi An is an unmissable stop on a tour of Vietnam.
The Best Party Destinations in Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the most essential stops on any South East Asia backpacking trip. Like the rest of South East Asia, Vietnam has quite a few things that backpackers hold dear. Gorgeous beaches, otherworldly sights, a fun-loving culture, and of course, cheap beer. Alcohol is so cheap in Vietnam that hostels often just give… Read More The Best Party Destinations in Vietnam
Planning Bachelors Trip to Vietnam
1st time in Vietnam. Motto/motive: Party Hard / Hot Incredible Girls (all nights)/Wild Crazy Nights. Tentative Plan: 3/4 nights HCMC. 3 Nights Hanoi (1 Day or Night Halong Bay) 2 Nights Da Nang. Suggestions Needed: Should we stick to the above itinerary. Would you suggest any other cities/places.
7 romantic destinations in Vietnam
Cam Ranh. Tucked away in Khanh Hoa Province, Cam Ranh is often overlooked in favour of its neighbour Nha Trang. For couples looking for quality time away from the world, that's a good thing. Empty beaches, sweet sea breezes and captivating views of fishing villages are a few things you can expect here. Cam Ranh is favoured by a number of luxury ...
10 Days in Vietnam: 5 Best Itineraries in 2024/2025
This 10-day itinerary covering Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta is a great option for families with teenagers who want to explore Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty. Days 1-2: Arrival, Hanoi city tour. Day 3: Ninh Binh day tour. Day 4-5: Halong Bay cruise.
7 Best Places for Nightlife in Vietnam (2024)
Here is the list of 7 Best Places for Nightlife in Vietnam. 1. Hoi An - A Happening Ancient City. The Ancient streets of Hoi An paint a picturesque sight during the day, but when the sun sets, the old town acquires an entirely different vibe. Trendy bistros, cafes, live music bars and artistic lounges come to life, and the bustling streets of ...

LOTUS EATERS TRAVEL

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

Vietnam as an alternative stag/buck’s bachelor party to Europe

How long does it take to get to Vietnam and how much does it cost?

Is a Vietnam expensive?

Where can I get a sim card?

How long should a stag/buck’s bachelor party be in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s 5 best cities for a bachelor party: Vietnam nightlife

5/ Phu Quoc

6/Ho Chi Minh

Read more Vietnam

Two Days in Hanoi: 48 hours in Vietnam’s capital

Is food and drink in Vietnam delicious?

1/ Cao Lau Hoi An

2/ Hot Pot Sapa

3/ Papaya Salad Phu Quoc

4/ Shrimp Banana Leaf Salad Hanoi

5/ Meat on Lemongrass Skewers

Is Vietnam accommodation cheap?

How much does alcohol cost in Vietnam?

Best Bars in Vietnam: Vietnam Nightlife

1/ The Terminal – Hanoi

2/ Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An

3/ Zen bar Phu Quoc

4/ Brown Eyes Bar Hue

5/ Color Bar Sapa

Is it cheap and easy to get around Vietnam?

Is Vietnam safe for a stag party?

Can you pay with contactless Visa/Mastercard in Vietnam?

Are people in Vietnam friendly and can they speak English?

Which is better for a stag/buck’s bachelors party Vietnam or Thailand?

Is it safe to drive a scooter/motorbike in Vietnam?

How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Vietnam?

In conclusion

Would you prefer a tour of Vietnam?

Thinking about other stag destinations? We have some suggestions…

Guide to the Night Markets of Ho Chi Minh

Guide to the Night markets of Hanoi Vietnam

How to get to Phu Quoc Island, all you need to know

USEFUL LINKS FOR FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION AND TRANSPORT

CHECK LATEST FLIGHTS

Share this:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Vietnam (2024 • Insider Guide)

1. Con Dao Islands

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Beautiful travels stay that way insured

Joe Middlehurst

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)

1) Explore the World’s Biggest Caves in Phong Nha

Alesha and Jarryd

Related Posts

Leave a comment Cancel reply

The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Meet the Expert

Related Articles

17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

1. Halong Bay

More on Vietnam

The 15 best things you can do in Vietnam in 2024

1. Embrace past and future Vietnam in historic Hanoi

2. Find your own island in the sun in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

3. Get your fill of imperial cuisine in handsome Hue

4. Meet Vietnam’s imperial leaders in the Hue tombs

5. Learn to make soups, stir-fries and salads on a cooking course

6. Unravel Vietnam’s complex religious history in My Son

7. Visit the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

8. Rumble through the highlands by motorcycle

9. See the American War through Vietnamese eyes

10. Visit villages in the "Asian Alps"

11. Find a perfect cup of coffee in the Central Highlands

12. Enter the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha

13. Walk with the ghosts of French Indochina in Ho Chi Minh City

14. Bask on beautiful beaches

15. Float on the Mekong Delta

Explore related stories

17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

17. Da Nang