places to visit in vietnam for bachelors

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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.

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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.

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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.

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. 

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.

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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.

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.

Want to visit Hoi An but accommodation looking a little pricey? Check out where to stay in Da Nang , a nearby city offering much more bang for your buck.

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!

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.

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!

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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.

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. 

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 .

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.

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.

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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.

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. 

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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.

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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. 

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.

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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.

• 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 .

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Joe Middlehurst

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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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Read more about Hoi An here.

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:

Read more about Phu Quoc here.

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.

Read more Vietnam

Hanoi versus ho chi minh city, which one to visit.

HANOI VERSUS HO CHI MINH CITY: WHICH ONE TO VISIT? Embarking on a journey through Vietnam, we were lucky enough to visit Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City spending between 7 and 10 days in each. From bustling markets to historical landmarks, our…

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…

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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

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.

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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 .

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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]

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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.

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25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

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Tu lan cave trekking tour photo essay, 20 amazing things to do in hoi an, vietnam (2024 guide), 25 amazing things to do in hanoi, vietnam (2024 guide), the digital nomads guide to hoi an, vietnam, 17 thoughts on “33 best things to do in vietnam (epic 2024 guide)”.

This is a really cool page, tons of information but does not “narrow it down” at all.

Hey there! You’ve got to check out this awesome video about the best places to visit in Vietnam. It’s such a fantastic virtual tour of 7 must-see destinations that will make you want to pack your bags and book a trip right away! The visuals are stunning, and the narration is engaging and informative. I highly recommend it!

What would you recommend as a 5-day itinerary to Vietnam with this being the first trip there?

Woah – Vietnam has their own Giant’s Causeway?! That’s really cool, I haven’t seen anything like that outside of Ireland, cool to see in other parts of the world.

Indeed it does. It was really cool to see and quiet compared to the one in Ireland. All the best

Hi together 🙂 We’re currently in Hoi An and I started to read your blog.. You two are fascinating and I’m really happy that I found your page. I putted to many cool waypoints on the map for our trip to phu quoc 😀 Thanks a lot for the valuable tips and keep traveling with so much love and enthusiasm! Greetings from a Swiss couple Vietnam 🙂

Hi Pascel, hope you are having a great trip. Thank you for your kind words. So glad you found us. If you have any questions about Vietnam let us know. Happy travels

I should’ve looked at this list before I went to Vietnam this winter! I’ll have to look at it again when I plan my next trip there.

In the meantime, thanks for writing this informative post!

There is always next time. Hope you had a great trip 🙂

Thanks for your useful information, by the way I also save some other reliable sources written by the local about best time to visit Vietnam or destinations to visit in Vietnam.

Glad you liked the article. Have a great time in Vietnam

This is a great list of adventures to have in Vietnam. We’re currently in Mui Ne heading north and ill keep your list handy for things to do as we move up. Im really excited to move through through the center and north of vietnam again. Thanks!

Hi Christine, So awesome I hope you are having a blast in Vietnam. It is our favourite country. Don’t miss Phong Nha. That is a special place. We have a lot on Vietnam on our site and if you have any questions don’t hesitate to send us a message. 🙂

I missed your reply to this, we did go to Phong Nha, it was amazing! My fav place in Vietnam. I dont know why i missed it on my first trip here. We did the paradise, phong nha and dark caves. A must see in Vietnam!

So glad you had a great time. 🙂

Oh, very this is a very detailed guide to Vietnam. It’s useful for those who are about to travel around Vietnam. Keep up with your good work!

Thanks Joanne. We loved travelling Vietnam for 7 months and can’t wait to get back there one day.

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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.

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

Travel, Hiking, Food

10 Days in Vietnam: The Best 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary For First Timers

Have 10 days in Vietnam? Vietnam is full of amazing places to see but if you want to see the best places in Vietnam, then follow my 10 day Vietnam Itinerary! This Vietnam itinerary is based on my repeated trips to Vietnam so I can guarantee you will love these places!

Vietnam is probably one of the most underrated countries in Southeast Asia . While most of the tourists flock to Thailand or Singapore, I loved Vietnam so much that I went back multiple times just to explore different regions of Vietnam.

Vietnam is a country with rich history and culture, incredible food, beautiful beaches, mountains and scenery that will leave you surprised and amazed. It is one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia and it is probably the No.1 country I would recommend visiting in SE Asia.

There are many ways to spend 10 days in Vietnam. This Vietnam itinerary will focus on how to see the highlights of Vietnam from North to South.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Thank you for supporting my blog.

Planning your first trip to Vietnam?

I have written a TON on Vietnam to help you plan your amazing Vietnam trip.

Whether you are planning to spend 10 days or 2 weeks in Vietnam, you will definitely find these articles helpful.

From sleeper trains to Halong Bay cruise to Ba Na Hills to Hue , these articles will for sure make your trip memorable and fun!

Where To Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam has a diverse landscape, spanning from the North to South, including mountains, rivers (and bay), rice terraces, the largest cave in the world, and beaches. Vietnam offers both modern cities and ancient towns, providing you with different experiences and a glance into its history.

Some of the best places to visit in Vietnam include (by Region):

Northern Vietnam

Central Vietnam

• Son Dong Cave
• My Son Sanctuary

Southern Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City

This 10 day Vietnam itinerary will cover some of the places above, assuming you are a first time visitor! Since there are multiple ways to plan a Vietnam trip and my itinerary is only an example you can follow, you can always swap out certain things as you plan your own Vietnam trip. Regardless of what you plan to do and see in Vietnam, I am still super jealous of all the great experience and food you will have on your trip.

Things To Know Before Visiting Vietnam For The First Time

• Vietnam Tourist Visa may be required if you are from certain countries (like from the US or Canada). Make sure to check the visa requirement before you go. Some countries do enjoy visa-free entry into Vietnam, including many EU and Asian Countries (excluding China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, etc). You can apply for the Vietnam E-Visa online yourself on the official government website. It takes no more than 10 minutes and only costs USD 25. Follow my step by step instruction on how to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa .
• Currency in Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong and 1 USD is about 23,500 Vietnamese Dong.
• You need to have cash with you in Vietnam; most places do not accept credit card. You should have some USD (or Euros) with you so you can convert in Vietnam (like at hotels and banks) as ATMs are not readily available everywhere.
• Use ATMs if you intend on taking out cash. You get better rates at local ATMs than if you were to exchange money
• Do not drink the tap water in Vietnam and try not to get ice cubes with your drinks; buy water but make sure the bottles are properly sealed
• Download Whatsapp ! Businesses are done over Whatsapp (like bus/ train booking, hotel communication etc). It is so much easier to communicate over Whatsapp than email.
• Your hotel can help you book almost everything , such as transportation, tours, attractions, etc.
• A travel adapter/ converter is needed if you are traveling from North America and Europe.
• Use an eSim or get a physical sim for Vietnam if you need internet.
• Vaccine requirements for Vietnam : I didn’t take any special vaccines but if you are curious, visit the official CDC website here .

Where to Stay in Vietnam

It is super easy to find cheap (but good) accommodations in Vietnam. In fact we’ve stayed at a wide range of hotels and guest houses in Vietnam, from $30 a day to $200 a day (for two people).

The detailed itinerary below shows you where to stay in Vietnam in each of the cities on this itinerary but here I will give you a short highlight. These are the places I’ve stayed at in Vietnam since I’ve been a couple of times.

• Hanoi : Meritel Hanoi in the center of Old Quarter
• Halong Bay : Stellar of the Sea Cruise
• Ninh Binh : Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow
• Hoi An: Q Villa
• Ho Chi Minh City : The Reverie Saigon
• Phu Quoc : L’Azure Resort and Spa

10 Day Vietnam Itinerary

Here is an overview of how to spend 10 days in Vietnam, then you will see the detailed day to day itinerary. This itinerary starts from the North in the capital city of Vietnam and moves down south.

Day 1 : Hanoi Day 2 : Ninh Binh Day 3-4 : Halong Bay Cruise Day 5-6 : Hoi An in Central Vietnam Day 7 & 8 : Ho Chi Minh City Day 9 & 10 : Phu Quoc Island

Day 1: Hanoi

Start your 10 day Vietnam journey in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam and the largest city in Northern Vietnam. It is a super nice city to visit and a great place to start your 10 days in Vietnam.

If you are flying into Hanoi, here is a guide on Hanoi Airport to Old Quarters to give you some ideas on the best way to go to Old Quarters. For first time visitors, you will most likely be staying in the Old Quarter and do sightseeing around there.

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and it is a cultural mix of Western and Eastern influences. As you wander around Hanoi, you will see there are many well preserved colonial buildings as well as ancient pagodas in Hanoi.

What to see in Hanoi

A few famous places in Hanoi you can check out include

• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Temple of Literature
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Night markets (beware of pickpockets)
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Ho Chi Minh Museum
• Visit pagodas and Cathedrals
• Thong Nhat Park
• Train Street
• Beer Corner

I absolutely loved just walking around the Old Quarter to see what local life is like there. You will find tons of street food vendors, shops and coffee shops. If you see something that looks appealing, be sure to stop and try it!

In particular I enjoyed walking around the Old Quarter at night. On specific nights there will be night markets where you can buy souvenirs, clothes, food, and other small trinkets. You should also stop by the super famous Beer Street if you want to see how lively Old Quarter gets at night! I was walking alone and felt totally safe around 7-9pm!

You can also watch a show at the Opera House, see a water puppet show in Hanoi and shop at the famous Dong Xuan Market.

One very famous Instagram worthy thing to do in Hanoi is to visit the Hanoi Train Street , where you can watch an actual train speed by along a cramped street full of cafes and shops (although some cafes may have closed due to government order and the pandemic).

Due to accidents in recent years, train streets do randomly get “closed down” but you can still visit. The most popular stretch of the train street have a lot of cafes and sometimes you will need a cafe owner to bring you in from the “backdoor”.

Other parts of train street without cafes are always open.

Usually the trains come at 3:20pm (weekends only) and 7:30pm (weekday) but the timing is not always accurate. It’s best to go before the scheduled time and just wait around.

Tours You Should Consider in Hanoi

Hanoi has a ton of things to eat and I think you really should take one of the street food tours to explore the best local flavors. I highly recommend this Hanoi street food tour if you are curious about authentic Vietnamese cuisine!

If you are scared of street food don’t worry, you can always do a cooking class . I personally love the cooking class because you really get to learn how to make authentic Vietnamese dish at home.

Where to stay in Hanoi

I stayed at the Meritel Hanoi in the center of Old Quarter. The hotel is super modern with a rooftop pool and they helped us book our day trips to Tam Coc and Ha Long Bay overnight cruise the first time we visited Vietnam.

Another 2 hotels we stayed at in Hanoi during our two visits were Babylon Premium Hotel and La Storia Ruby Hotel . Both were good and La Storia Ruby Hotel was quite cheap and sufficient.

If you want to stay somewhere very luxurious in Hanoi, then I would recommend either the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi or the Movenpick Hotel Hanoi . But personally I think the hotels I mentioned above are already really nice and clean.

Read Next : How to Spend 2 days in Sapa

Day 2: Tam Coc (Ninh Binh) Day Trip From Hanoi

Take a day trip from Hanoi the next day to Tam Coc , an area in Ninh Binh .

Tam Coc is known as “ Halong Bay on land “. It’s an area with rice paddies and Ngo Dong River running through limestone caves and mountains. It’s located 90 km from Hanoi but it’s way less crowded than Hanoi or Halong Bay.

You can take a full day tour to Tam Coc and different tours do offer different options.

• Tour Option 1 : Goes to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital , Mua Cave (beautiful view of the area), Tam Coc boat ride on Ngo Dong River and Bich Dong Pagoda .
• Tour Option 2 : Includes Bai Dinh Pagoda , Mua Cave and a 3 hour Trang An Boat ride (which is different than the 2 hour Tam Coc Boat ride above).

With the first tour , you can do the boat ride on the Ngo Dong River , where the rowers are local ladies who use their feet to row the boat. They are so good at it that it feels like they’ve been doing it forever. I suppose it’s just a lot easier to row with your legs/feet instead of arms.

This 3 hour Trang An Boat Ride with the second tour has 3 different routes and you get to pick the route and get off the boat at each stop along the boat ride. I really liked the Trang An boat ride (more than the Tam Coc one actually).

The whole area of Tam Coc looked like it’s straight out of a painting. I actually think the scenery in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc) is the most beautiful during our 10 days in Vietnam trip.

If you do not want to join a tour, you can definitely visit Ninh Binh by yourself from Hanoi. You can rent a scooter (or hire a private taxi) once you are in Tam Coc to explore all the spots.

You can take buses or trains (or even private transfer) from Hanoi by booking them on this website . This would give you more flexibility especially if you plan to stay overnight or spend more time at a particular spot.

Day 3 & 4: Halong Bay Overnight Boat Cruise

Halong Day is famous for its thousands of limestone islands in the emerald water. It is located in Northern Vietnam about 3-4 hours from Hanoi . Most people take an overnight boat tour on Ha Long Bay because it’s simply too far from Hanoi to do a day trip.

I have been to Halong Bay twice and had a good time both times.

Different cruise companies offer different types of activities and amenities. Some of the cruise companies go to Lan Ha Bay and the itinerary includes exploring caves at Cat Ba Island, swimming and morning kayaking.

Some other cruise companies go to Halong Bay and they would go to floating villages and hiking up Titop Island for a panoramic view of Halong Bay.

While onboard, Halong Bay cruises generally have Tai-chi class, cooking class, lounge chairs, deck, Happy Hour (you need to pay for the drinks), common area with TV and DVDs, evening squid fishing, etc.

Having done the Halong Bay cruise twice, I really do feel the cruise was the most relaxing part of our entire 10 day Vietnam itinerary (and yes I did two 10 day trips in Vietnam and both were intense!)

Everything was arranged and you just relax on one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world. You also get to try some Vietnamese wine and beer on the boat with this view, so what more could you need?

In recent years many newer cruises offer a route to Lan Ha Bay (a part of Halong Bay that is not as touristy). If you want a more laidback and relaxing trip to Halong Bay you can consider cruises offering routes to Lan Ha Bay.

Some of the most luxurious Halong Bay cruises now include Emperor Cruise , Orchid Cruise , Stellar of the Seas Cruise , Heritage Cruise , etc. These are the instagram worthy cruises that you often see on social media with the pool on deck and floor to ceiling glass bathrooms.

To learn more about Halong Bay, see my complete Halong Bay Cruise guide .

Day 5 & 6: Hoi An Ancient Town

After spending a few lovely days in Northern Vietnam it was time to start traveling south to the middle of Vietnam. Hoi An is an ancient town located in the middle of Vietnam (near the water on the eastern side of the country).

Hoi An is one of the most well known towns in Vietnam due to its well preserved historical center and the colorful lanterns and buildings. It used to be a major trading port from the 15th to 19th century. Since it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will get to experience how life looked like back in the days.

How to Hoi An From Hanoi

To travel from Hanoi to Hoi An, the fastest way is to fly. There are trains and buses to Hoi An but they take much longer although if you are planning to do an overnight bus or train these are good choices.

Hoi An does not have an airport of its own, so travelers need to fly from Hanoi to Danang (which is also a cool place to visit, it has a beach!). There are over 20 flights from Hanoi to Da Nang everyday and it’s a short flight about 1.5 hours.

Once you land in Da Nang, look for the bus station to Hoi An. Alternatively you can take a taxi or have your hotel pick you up. Our hotel offered to pick us up at 315.000 vnd/car, which is about 15 USD.

Things to See in Hoi An

• Japanese Covered Bridge : The most famous site in Hoi An is the Japanese Covered Bridge , it’s a historical piece of Japanese architecture. If you want to walk through the bridge then you have to pay an entrance fee , so most visitors actually opt to just take a photo in front of the Japanese Covered Bridge.
• Assembly Halls : There are a number of assembly halls in Hoi An and they were built by the Chinese community that lived there during the trading period. Some of the most famous Assembly Halls in Hoi An include Cantonese Asembly Hall and Fujian Assembly Hall.
• Visit the Old Houses : Within the touristy zone there are 18th century Old Houses. You can visit these Old Houses and do a guided tour to learn more about the architecture as well as the historical background of them. We visited Tan Ky Old House and it was really interesting to know what the family experienced back then.
• Visit a local market : If you are interested to see how locals shop or just want to look for some cheap fruits and everyday items, then be sure to stop by the Hoi An Central Market. I was able to get a large T-shirt (as PJ), nail clipper and other random things from the central market.
• Get clothes tailored : Hoi An is tailor capital of Vietnam so you can find a large number of tailor shops in the old town. We went to Ba Ri to get a couple of dresses made and the turn around time was within 2 days.
• Enjoy the lanterns at night : Hoi An is literally the cutest with all the lanterns lit up on its streets at night.
• Check out Hoi An Night Market : Night market is a popular thing to do in Hoi An south of the river. You can find cooked food as well as clothes, gadgets and souvenirs at the night market.
• Take a boat ride & release lanterns : A super romantic thing to do in Hoi An is to take a 20 minute boat ride on Thu Bon River at night. You can  pre-book the boat here .

Read Next : How to spend one day in Hoi An – what to do and eat in Hoi An

(Optional Day Trip From Hoi An) Golden Bridge (Hand Bridge) in Ba Na Hills

In June 2018, Vietnam opened an incredibly cool looking bridge called the Golden Bridge near the city of Da Nang in Ba Na Hills Resort. Photos on social media immediately attracted tons of tourist and many visitors are going to Vietnam just for the Golden Bridge or the Hand Bridge.

Golden Bridge is located in a theme park called Sun World Ba Na Hills and can only be visited by riding a cable car up in the Ba Na Hills Resort. The bridge is 1500m above sea level and it’s about 500ft long.

Fortunately for those of you visiting Hoi An, you can take a taxi from Hoi An to Ba Na hills in about 1-1.5 hours to visit the Golden Bridge.

After you visit the Golden Bridge, you should also explore other attractions at Ba Na Hills such as the French Village , Le Jardin D’Amour , Linh Ung Pagoda , etc.

You can check out my Golden Hand Bridge guide to get more details.

If you have some extra time in Vietnam, be sure to check out this 3 day Danang itinerary which also includes how to visit the Golden Bridge.

Where to Stay in Hoi An

For beach lovers, you would love the luxury Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa    or the Dai An Phu Villa . You can walk to the beach in under 5 minutes and there is a free shuttle service to Hoi An Ancient Town. There are spas and massages at the hotel for a truly luxurious experience.

For those who want to stay in a medium ranged hotel closer to the Hoi An ancient town, I would recommend either the Silk Luxury Hotel & Spa or Vinh Hung Heritage hotel .

If you are a budget traveler, there are nice hotels/ hostels that cost less than 30 USD a night that’s close to the center of Hoi An historical town such as Hoi An Ivy Hotel or Q Villa . We stayed at Q Villa and loved it.

Day 7 & 8: Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam by population. It’s located in the Southern part of Vietnam and has a tropical (wet and dry season) climate.

Ho Chi Minh City played an important role during the Vietnam War (anti-communist). Before that it was ruled by the Japanese and French, so that’s why most of the architectures you see in Ho Chi Mihn City are of French influence.

You can fly to Ho Chi Minh directly on Jetstar from Da Nang.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City : some of the things you can do in Saigon include the

• Cu Chi Tunnels (underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War)
• Binh Tay Market and Ben Thanh Market
• Independence Palace
• War Remnants Museum
• Cao Dai Temple
• Jade emperor Pagoda
• Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
• bar hopping at Pham Ngu Lau Street
• Visit a rooftop bar

If you have time, you can also do some excursions outside of the city, such as a visit to the Mekong Delta , the Cai Be Floating Market , etc.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh : if you are looking to stay at a hostel, check out this post on hostels in Ho Chi Minh .

If you prefer a more luxurious experience, then I would highly recommend either The Reverie Saigon , Silverland Yen Hotel , or the Alagon D’antique Hotel & Spa .

Day 9 & 10: Beach At Phú Quốc

After the hustling and bustling of Saigon, it’s time to relax on the beach! Most people don’t realize that Vietnam has nice beaches (at least I didn’t know) but I was pleasantly surprised by the island of Phu Quoc .

Phu Quoc Island is located off the coast of Cambodia and is known for its white sand beaches and resorts. It’s a hidden gem because most tourists go to islands in Thailand so Phu Quoc is not nearly as crowded as Thailand.

Even though it was February but since the island is so south that it was actually a nice beach weather. There is a direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc so it was perfect for our itinerary.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc : there are a lot of wonderful hotels in Phu Quoc by the beach, such as the Seashells Phu Quoc Hotel & Spa , L’Azure Resort and Spa , Movenpick Villas & Residences , Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort , etc. These 5 star hotels are no more than $150 a night which is crazy to me since they would cost over $1000 a night in Hawaii or something!

What to do in Phu Quoc : BEACH!! There are many nice beaches in Phu Quoc such as Truong Beach , Vung Bau Beach , and Sao Beach . The most famous one would be the Sao beach.

If you are a fan of kayaking then this kayaking and starfish tour would be perfect for you.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities on Phu Quoc since the water is warm and calm.

Besides beach, you can also take the famous Phu Quoc cable car from Phu Quoc to Hon Thom Island. It takes about 15 minutes each way and it is a breathtaking experience. You get amazing views of the sea and islands on a clear day and it is the longest non-stop 3 way cable car in the world.

Other Vietnam Trip Planning Tips and Things to Know

Best (and worst) months to visit vietnam.

In general, December to April are the best months to visit Vietnam, avoiding the rainy season that takes place from June to October .

But since Vietnam is a very “long” country, there are different climates in different regions of Vietnam:

• Northern Vietnam : generally a lot cooler than the rest of the country. However, if you are in mountainous regions, the whether during November to March can be quite foggy and cold but relatively dry.
• Central Vietnam : enjoys tropical climate and has pretty warm weather almost year round. Central Vietnam gets the most amount of rainfall between September and November and there is a high chance of flooding.
• Southern Vietnam : generally enjoys a relatively consistent warm weather all year round, with the highest level of rainfall from May to October. The islands in Vietnam will be warm enough even in the “winter” months, but with the most clear skies in February.

How to get around Vietnam

It is pretty easy to get around Vietnam, and some of the most popular methods to get around Vietnam include:

• Rent a moped or motorbike : This is a flexible way to get around Vietnam cheaply. Motorbikes up to 50 cc can be ridden in Vietnam without a license, but this may not be the best option for long distance. If you are thinking about simply riding around a city, then this is the perfect option.
• Take a local bus : Local buses are the easiest way to travel long distance in Vietnam. You can take a sleeper bus to save time during your travel. This is the best website to book a Vietnam bus.
• Take a sleeper train : Sleeper trains are another convenient way to get around Vietnam. I took a luxury sleeper train to get from Hanoi to Sapa. This is the best website to book a sleeper train.
• Ride a shared van : You can easily book a shared luxury van to get around Vietnam. These vans come with AC and USB port and we took these vans to get to Halong Bay and Ninh Binh and loved them.
• Call car services : There is no Uber in Vietnam but you can use Grab App to call a car. It works just like Uber but I had to use cash to pay as for some reason my credit card didn’t go through.
• Take a flight : You can easily fly around Vietnam for cheap. I always took Vietnamese Airlines as it was more reliable and our flight from Hue to Hanoi was only 50 USD. My friends have taken Bamboo Airways or VietJet but said VietJet changed their flight to 3 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Is Vietnam safe?

Vietnam is a pretty safe country for tourists, even for female solo travelers.

However, like any Southeast Asia country, there is petty crime such as pick pocketing. Be sure to watch your bags/wallets closely, especially in crowded areas (and if you do not look Asian).

I have heard stories from friends that their purses were slashed from behind when they were shopping at street markets in Hanoi.

If you have jewelry you may want to leave them at home. It is not prudent to flaunt your wealth with big bling blings in Vietnam. You may not get robbed but it’s frowned upon.

For those who are not familiar with the traffic conditions in Vietnam, you will need to watch out for cars and motorbikes . Motorbikes are the main transportation in Vietnam and in cities like Hanoi, it can get quite overwhelming.

Even though the drivers will try to avoid you (they are very good at that!), but still use caution when crossing the streets. Try to follow locals when crossing the street in Vietnam.

If you are thinking about taking overnight trains or buses, then the good news is that these types of public transportation is safe for solo travelers.

I took both overnight trains and buses, and they felt perfectly safe.

What to Eat in Vietnam

Different regions in Vietnam also have different speciality food. You will need to do some research to figure out what are the best local specialities are in each region. But in general, here are what some of the typical dishes are in Vietnam.

• Pho : The famous Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and a variety of fresh herbs and condiments. It is one of the best things you can eat in Northern Vietnam (at least I find the ones in Northern Vietnam tastier)
• Bánh Mì : World renowned Vietnamese sandwiches, which are typically filled with a combination of grilled meats, vegetables, pâté, and fresh herbs, served in a baguette. I had the best Banh Mi in Hoi An!
• Gỏi Cuốn : Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice vermicelli, and other ingredients, often served with a peanut dipping sauce.
• Bún Chả : Grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served over vermicelli noodles, often accompanied by fresh herbs, peanuts, and a dipping sauce. There are some really good places for this in Hanoi Old Quarter.
• Cơm Tấm : Broken rice served with grilled pork, fried egg, and fish sauce, often garnished with pickled vegetables.
• Bánh Xèo : Vietnamese sizzling pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, typically served with a dipping sauce. You can find some of these really good ones in Hue
• Bún Bò Huế : A spicy beef noodle soup originating from the city of Hue, featuring tender slices of beef and pork, lemongrass, and chili
• Cá Kho Tộ : A popular Vietnamese braised fish dish, often cooked in a caramelized sauce with black pepper and served with rice
• Bánh Cuốn : Steamed rice rolls filled with ground pork, mushrooms, and other ingredients, often served with fried shallots and fish sauce
• Chả Giò : Fried spring rolls, often filled with ground meat, shrimp, and vegetables, wrapped in rice paper
• Hủ tiếu : A noodle soup dish with a clear and flavorful broth, typically containing seafood, pork, and rice noodles
• Bánh Canh : A thick Vietnamese noodle soup made with wide, udon-like noodles and a variety of toppings, including seafood, meat, or vegetables.
• Hấp Hủ tiếu Nam Vang : A dish featuring clear rice noodles topped with a mixture of shrimp, squid, pork, and a special savory sauce.
• Bánh Khoai : A Vietnamese crepe or pancake often filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

There are also a ton of popular Vietnamese desserts that you should try, and here are some of the famous ones:

• Vietnamese coffee : You absolutely cannot leave Vietnam without trying their coffee, especially the famed Egg Coffee and Coconut Coffee!
• Chè : Chè is a broad category of Vietnamese sweet soups or puddings made with a variety of ingredients. These can include mung beans, black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, lotus seeds, tapioca pearls, and fruits.
• Bánh Bò : Bánh bò, also known as Vietnamese honeycomb cake, is a spongy, steamed cake made from rice flour, tapioca starch, sugar, and coconut milk. It has a unique honeycomb-like texture.
• Bánh Chuối Hấp : This is a steamed banana cake, typically made with ripe bananas, rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk. It’s a moist and fragrant dessert.
• Bánh Flan : Bánh flan is the Vietnamese version of crème caramel or flan. It consists of a layer of caramelized sugar topped with a creamy, egg-based custard.
• Bánh Tiêu : Bánh tiêu are Vietnamese hollow doughnuts that are deep-fried until they puff up and turn golden brown. They are often filled with sweet mung bean paste or custard.
• Chuối Nếp Nướng : Grilled sticky rice and bananas are a delightful dessert often found in Vietnam. The combination of grilled sticky rice and caramelized bananas creates a sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
• Kem Xôi : This dessert combines two popular Vietnamese items, kem (ice cream) and xôi (sticky rice). The sticky rice is often dyed with natural colors and served with a scoop of ice cream.

To find good restaurants to eat in Vietnam, I would recommend that you use Google Maps and TripAdvisor ! We used both and found the reviews spot on!

How to get a SIM card and internet in Vietnam

I highly recommend that you get a SIM card when traveling in Vietnam. You can also purchase a Vietnam SIM card at the airport when you first arrive.

The most popular tourist SIM cards are offered by Viettel, Mobiphone, Vietnamobile and VinaPhone . I’ve seen a lot of people using Viettel so you can definitely consider that. You can ask for a 1 month tourist sim which costs about 10 – 20 USD (price and package may change since things change fast there).

If you want the convenience of just having your internet work right after you land, you can consider getting a Vietnam eSIM with Vietnamesim.com before you fly.

They provide a wide range of data plans and the most popular plan is 120GB for 30 days (max 4 GB per day) including free first 20 minutes of every call to Vinaphone numbers. I activated the eSim to one of my phones before I flew and internet worked immediately when I landed in Vietnam, so it was super convenient.

If you have T Mobile Magenta Plans (or Magenta Max Plans), you can enjoy free internet roaming . Magenta Max plans give you 5GB of high speed internet (then after that it’s 256kps speed) and Magenta plans give you 256kps speed internet.

Booking Resources for Vietnam

If you found this article useful, please consider using the links below to book your hotels and tours. We earn a fee from referring you at no cost to you. With your support we can continue to provide useful information for travelers like you to plan that perfect trip to Vietnam.

• Hotel booking sites for Vietnam :  this  or  this
• Tours booking sites for Vietnam :  this  or  this
• Travel insurance
• Train and bus booking site

Read My Other Vietnam Travel Blogs

Be sure to check out my other Vietnam travel resources to help plan your trip!

• How to get a Vietnam E-Visa
• 1 Day Hoi An itinerary and Travel Guide
• 2 Day Hue Itinerary to see the best Hue Tourist Attractions
• Best things to do in Sapa in 2 days
• Complete Halong Bay Cruise Guide
• What to do and see in Cat Cat Village in Sapa
• Visiting Golden Hand Bridge in Ba Na Hills
• Vietnam Sleeper Train Guide
• 3 Week Vietnam and Thailand Itinerary
• 2 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary (4 Alternative Itineraries)

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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.

Read next: 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.

Read next: 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.

Read next: 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.

Read next: 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.

Read next: Vietnam’s seven 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.

You may also like:

• Alternative Places to Visit in Vietnam
• 10 of the best things to do in Thailand
• The best things to do in Cambodia

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Asia , Travel Guides , Vietnam · June 25, 2019

21 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Vietnam

This comprehensive Vietnam guide highlights everything you need to know about visiting Vietnam for the first time. Find out where to go in Vietnam and discover the best places to visit in Vietnam. You’ll also get tons of tips and tricks to help you plan the perfect Vietnam itinerary.

There’s no doubt, Vietnam offers visitors a very unique experience.   From bustling cities and gorgeous beaches to lush forests and breathtaking rice paddies – Vietnam has it all! The country which borders China, Laos, and Cambodia, is the perfect SEA destination for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in nature, history, culture, and some of the best culinary feasts across the globe.

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Before you go to Vietnam

Before we dive into the best places to visit in Vietnam, make sure to read my guide on 16 essential travel tips for visiting Vietnam . It includes tons of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your trip. Along with the tips included above, here are a few key things to be aware of before visiting Vietnam. I’ve rounded up all my top tips to help you plan the perfect Vietnam trip.

Quick facts

Currency: Vietnamese Dong ( Check latest rates here )

Langauge: Vietnamese

Time Zone: GMT+7

Climate: Tropical / Monsoon

When to visit Vietnam

The weather in Vietnam can be unpredictable. Therefore before booking flights and accommodation, it’s always a good idea to know when to visit Vietnam and what to pack for a Vietnam trip .

Peak Season (Jul – Aug)

Vietnam’s peak season runs from July to August. Temperatures are hot and humid throughout most parts of the country (except the far north) and expect some showers. Prices also tend to be steeper during these months, so it’s best to book accommodation well in advance.

If you are traveling on a flexible schedule, you might want to consider only booking your arrival hotel. And, then take it from there. On our two-week Vietnam trip, we had an idea of where we wanted to go, but no fixed plans. We only booked our hotel for the first leg of our journey. Once in Vietnam, we simply booked hotels further afield a day in advance. Even though we visited in August, we were still able to find affordable mid-range accommodation. But just a tip – traveling like this can be quite stressful! So, it’s best to plan accordingly.

Shoulder Season (Dec – Mar)

If you plan to visit Vietnam during the shoulder season, you can expect sunny weather in the south with cooler-to-cold weather in the north. If traveling during Tet, Vietnamese Lunar New Year (late Jan – early Feb), booking accommodation and transport well in advance is highly encouraged.

Low Season (Apr – Jun, Sep – Nov)

There are a bunch of festivals during these months, so those on the hunt for unique cultural experiences won’t be disappointed. In general, the weather is lovely too, but note that typhoons aren’t uncommon on Vietnam’s northern and central coastline.

Most visitors need a visa to enter Vietnam, but luckily the process doesn’t take more than a few days.

Some European passport holders, such as citizens from the UK, France, and Germany, can enter Vietnam 15 days visa-free. Citizens from the US and most other nations do however need to apply for a visa. Some nationalities can also apply for a visa online – you can read more about it here . Alternatively, use iVisa to help you sort out everything online in a jiffy.

If you are South African, like me, you will need to apply for a visa (in person) at your nearest Vietnam embassy.

Arriving in Vietnam

Vietnam is served by three main international airports, namely, Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang International Airport.

Depending on your Vietnam itinerary and time, you might want to consider arriving and departing at different airports. That way, you’ll save traveling time and unnecessary traveling costs. (Find flights or compare airline prices here in Skyscanner ).

Arriving in Hanoi

Noi Bai International Airport is only about 45km from Hanoi’s city center. However, it’s best to leave at least 1 hour of travel time to reach the Old Quarter (and vice versa).

Taxis are plentiful, and you can easily book a transfer through your hotel for roughly USD$30 one-way. Alternatively, grab a private transfer from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi City/Halong Bay first to save time and money.

For those traveling on a shoestring, there are many dirt cheap local buses to consider. These can easily transport you from the airport to Hanoi Old Quarter or Hanoi Train station. 

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is about 8km away from Saigon’s city center. And it takes less than 30 minutes to get there from the airport.

Direct transfers through hotels will set you back at least USD$30. Local buses also run every half hour between 6 am-6 pm to the Ben Thanh Market downtown. But if you have a lot of luggage perhaps consider taking a taxi or a private transfer from the airport to HCMC (which is slightly cheaper than getting a taxi directly from the airport).  

Arriving in Da Nang

If you are flying in from Siem Reap, Cambodia, the closest international airport is Da Nang International Airport .

The airport is only a few km away from the city center, and reasonably close to most of the beach resorts too. Grab a taxi at the airport or book a private transfer for Da Nang here for a hassle-free journey.  

How to Get Around Vietnam

Vietnam caters to all kinds of travelers, whether you are on a tight budget or like to travel in comfort.

Long Distance Travel in Vietnam

Open Tour buses and trains are the easiest ways to travel long distances in Vietnam. Both transport methods have overnight options, which allow you to save a few bucks on hotel accommodation. Tickets can also easily be bought at most travel agencies in Hanoi or HCMC.

12 Go Asia  is a good go-to site if you want to check train ticket prices or book tickets online.

But just a side-note, taking either of these options is not for everyone! The overnight trains and sleeper buses were by far some of the worst transport experiences I’ve ever had! Therefore, if you aren’t used to traveling long distances on stuffy trains or buses, instead opt flying. Domestic flights are cheap and frequent.

Short Distance Travel in Vietnam

Generally, taxis are very easy to flag down on the street. Grab Taxi is also a great alternative if you don’t like waiting around.

Although most major cities in Vietnam are very walkable, the traffic here is absolute chaos! Motorcycles often drive on sidewalks, and speeding is not uncommon. You might even find that something as simple as crossing the street to be painstakingly annoying. So, as a rule of thumb, follow the locals when attempting to cross busy streets!

In addition to taxis, bicycle rickshaws or motorbike taxis are excellent modes of transport for more daring travelers. But, remember to fix the price with the driver before going anywhere. You might also need to haggle a bit!

Staying Connected in Vietnam

When traveling to Vietnam, the very first thing we recommend getting is a local SIM card or pocket WIFI. If you aren’t sure which SIM card best suits your needs, these handy tips on choosing the best tourist SIM card in Vietnam will come in handy.

Most hotels do, however, have free WIFI, but if you are out and about, having access to the internet is essential – especially if you are checking train or bus schedules. Picking up a 4G SIM card at the airport is very easy. However, since low-cost carriers often arrive in the early morning hours or late at night, it might be best to grab a 4G SIM card online first. Here are some options:

• Arrival in Hanoi – Grab a 4G SIM card delivered straight to your hotel in Hanoi .
• Arrival in HCMC – Grab a  4G SIM delivered straight to your hotel in HCMC .

Scams are widespread in Vietnam, so it’s best to do a bit of research first. If you are booking day trips or transfers on the go, be sure to compare prices from a few local travel agents first. ( Finding a tour operator on the street in major hubs across Vietnam is also very easy – they’re everywhere! ). Alternatively, book tours and transfers online in advance through reputable sites or tour operators.

Language Barries

You’re not likely to have too much trouble with language barriers in major cities across the country. Most staff members at hotels, better-looking restaurants, and even at the busier markets can speak some English. But knowing a few key phrases can go a long way. Start with a few basics like:

Hello – Xin chào

Goodbye – Tạm biệt

Thank you – Cám ơn

How much is it? – Cái này giá bao nhiêu?

ATM’s are widely accessible across Vietnam, but generally, cash is king here. So be sure to carry enough money with you to avoid hefty international bank charges. Most hotels, tour operators, and fancier restaurants should accept debit or credit cards.

Haggling is standard practice at local markets and even at small stores selling local knick-knacks. So, don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills beforehand! Shopping around a bit first will also give you a good idea of how prices differ. Front entrance stores in main markets usually tend to ask foreigners steeper prices. Estimates are also often given in USD.

Tipping at restaurants is generally not required throughout Vietnam. Expect a 10% fee to be ( already ) worked into your bill at nicer looking cafes and restaurants. Hotel staff, such as porters often expect a small tip, especially from tourists. So remember to keep some small change or a few small dollar bills (USD) handy.

This probably goes without saying, but it’s best not to drink tap water when traveling in Asia . Instead opt to invest in a reusable water bottle that you can easily refill at your hotel’s water fountain.

In a rush? Pin this Vietnam Travel Itinerary for later.

The Best Places to Go in Vietnam for the Perfect Vietnam Itinerary

Great, now that you know the basics of planning a trip to Vietnam, let’s dive into this guide on where to go in Vietnam and what places not to miss on your Vietnam trip! Here is our list on the 20+ best places to visit in Vietnam – as recommended by fellow travel bloggers!

Best Places to visit in Northern Vietnam

Hanoi’s rich history and vibrant chaotic streets showcasing everything from broken down shophouses to colorful exteriors have long made it a pitstop on any northern Vietnam itinerary .

As the capital city, Hanoi offers visitors a glimpse into traditions still evident on the streets today. Here old and new seamlessly blend, making Hanoi a melting pot of culture, history, tradition, and authentic cuisine.

The Old Quarter is the beating heart of Hanoi, and probably where you’ll spend most of your time. With its deep-rooted history dating back more than 1000 years, the Old Quarter has something for everyone, no matter your interests!

Shopaholics and shutterbugs shouldn’t miss getting lost in the maze of shops and alleys lining the 36 Pho Phuong (merchant streets). Here you’ll find local merchants grouped by the wares they sell – from flowers and jewelry to silks and toys to name just a few. Here endless photo ops and a chance to experience the city like a real local awaits you around every corner. Those seeking to explore the natural beauty, albeit not any less chaotic side of the Old Quarter, be sure to head to Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hanoi is a huge must when planning where to go in Vietnam, and any visit here will be rewarded with unique foodie experiences , relaxing strolls, unique architecture, bountiful of museums, and even puppet shows.

Whatever you do though – don’t miss popping by Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, stepping foot in the Museum of Literature and getting a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape at the Lotte Tower Observation Deck . Grabbing a bowl of pho and an ice-cold bai hoi , or a Vietnamese egg coffee at one of the sidewalk cafes for some good old fashioned people watching should not be missed either.

Since Hanoi is a popular tourist hot spot, there’s no shortage of excellent accommodation. That said, a stay at the Metropole, a beautiful luxury hotel in Hanoi , will not disappoint. Make sure to spend at least 3-4 days in Hanoi. That way, you can get a real feel of what the city has on offer.

Pù Luông Nature Reserve

Recommended by Emily | Wander-Lush

For an off-the-beaten-track nature experience in Vietnam, Pu Luong Nature Reserve can’t be beaten.

Located southwest of Hanoi on the border between Thanh Hoa and Hoa Binh provinces, Pu Luong – with its pristine forests and rich biodiversity – has been protected since 1999. Thai, Muong and other ethnic minority communities live inside the Reserve. They are responsible for the towering rice terraces and bamboo waterwheels that make the area so iconic.

The Reserve is the perfect spot for trekking. Homestay accommodation can be found in small villages linked by forest paths, with waterfalls, rivers, and mountains to be discovered along the way. For something more relaxing, peaceful Ban Hieu village in the southeast corner of the Reserve is a great spot to unwind.

Pu Luong is more remote than nearby Mai Chau, which makes accessing the Reserve a bit tricky. There is no public transport, so the best way to go about this is by organizing a transfer through your accommodation – either from Ninh Binh (approximately 4.5 hours by car) or from Hanoi. It might cost you a little more time and money, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Ha Long Bay

If there is one natural wonder in Asia that should be on your travel radar, it’s Ha Long Bay. Famed for its limestone caves and caverns with centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites, this UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises of more than 1600 limestone islets in all shapes and sizes imaginable – all covered in lush green vegetation.

Although Ha Long Bay has become a victim of over tourism over the past few years, its iconic emerald waters and towering limestone karsts are well worth the 3 hour bus ride from Hanoi and even the crowds!

Most people visit Ha Long Bay on a day trip from Hanoi . It’s best to pre-book tickets online as it is a very popular landmark in Vietnam . A day trip typically lasts 12 hours and includes sailing around on a traditional junk boat, visiting Thien Cung Cave (aka the Heavenly Cave) and some kayaking through the floating markets and towering karsts.

For those who have a bit more time, consider joining one of the iconic Ha Long Bay cruises to spend a few nights onboard a junk boat on these peaceful waters.

Recommended by John Paul | The Hangry Backpacker

Cat Ba Island is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. The island is easily reached from Hanoi/Hai Phong by bus. You’ll first need to travel to Cat Hai (a small island). Then take a short ferry and finally hop on another bus that makes various stops on Cat Ba Island.

The main town on the island, also called Cat Ba, is a laid back place in a beautiful setting. From Cat Ba town, visitors can tour the island (best done via motorbike) or join a boat tour of Ha Long Bay.

Cat Ba National Park is a stunning area that covers a large chunk of the island. The geography of the park is like Ha Long Bay without the water. For a great view of the harbor and town below, a short hike up to an old fort (now with a monument at the summit) is the perfect place for a panorama of Cat Ba town.

Ha Long Bay is one of the most beautiful natural scenes in Southeast Asia, and Cat Ba Island is the perfect gateway to explore the area. Most visitors come to Cat Ba for a calmer alternative to see Ha Long Bay than from Ha Long city.

Two to three full days on Cat Ba Island is enough time to adequately explore the national park and the bay, although an extra day or so is welcome for most travelers.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Recommended by Claudia Tavani | My Adventures Across The World

Most people who visit the North of Vietnam head to the magnificent Ha Long Bay. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. However, as a result of overtourism, it’s lost part of its charm. Nowadays, there are so many vessels moving around Ha Long Bay that your experience there ends up being crowded and you often hear loud music coming from the party boats – not to mention the high amount of plastic and garbage that floats around the sea.

One of the best things to do in Vietnam as an alternative to visiting Ha Long Bay is doing a tour of Bai Tu Long Bay. This is very similar in terms of sights and things to do, and in fact, you will be cruising across Ha Long Bay in bits. However, as the final destination is different, you will follow a different route and there will be fewer vessels around – so you will be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and you’ll have the views all to yourself

Tours of Bai Tu Long Bay normally last two full days. You will spend a full day on the boat doing things such as kayaking, swimming in the turquoise waters of the bay, exploring the many caves and visiting oyster farms. The second day is usually spent on a local island where you’ll get to sleep in a homestay. There, you’ll have a chance to cook dinner with the family, explore the island by bike and on foot, and get to know a bit of local culture before heading back to Hanoi.

Recommended by Tasha Amy | Backpackers Wanderlust

Located up in the mountains is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam – Sapa. If you are looking to get outside of the cities and into nature, there is no better choice than here.

To get to Sapa the best option is either by bus or train for Hanoi. Both are a long journey taking around 8 hours. Though, from my personal experience, the best option is the overnight train. Buses here can be hit or miss and for us, it was a complete miss. Also, bus crashes along these roads are fairly common.

Whether you prefer to relax with a massage or more thrill-seeking activities there is something to do for everyone. One of the most popular activities is hiking in Sapa . The views are incredible over the green rice terraces and there are different difficulty levels depending on your fitness. For our visit, we split our time between the main Sapa town, where you will find the restaurants and shops, and a local village called Ta Van. There are plenty of homestays in Ta Van where you can gain an understanding of local life by living with a family.

Make sure you spend at least 3 nights exploring Sapa and the surrounding villages. You will be astonished by the beauty which makes it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

Recommend by Emily Lush | Wander-Lush

Ha Giang Province in the far north is one of the most rewarding places to visit in Vietnam .

Remote and rugged, Ha Giang is a mountainous landscape defined by limestone karsts and deep canyons. High-elevation roads with hairpin bends track between small towns and villages, where members of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities hold weekly produce markets. Hiking between villages via stacked rice terraces and fields of buckwheat is one of the best things to do in Ha Giang.

A popular way to see Ha Giang is by riding the Dong Van Pass and the Dong Van Loop, a famous road that many choose to navigate on a motorbike (either self-drive or easy rider). If you don’t ride, it’s also possible to visit Ha Giang by car .

Unlike in nearby Sapa, tourism in Ha Giang is still developing. A number of social enterprises and responsible tourism projects have sprung up in the area to ensure things develop the right way. It’s a little more challenging to get around – but the extra time and money visiting Ha Giang involves is worth it.

Independent travelers can reach Ha Giang’s largest town, Dong Van, by overnight bus from Hanoi. From there, you can rent motorbikes or travel by local bus to Sa Phin, Thai Phin and other villages on the loop, staying at homestays along the way. You’ll need a minimum of 3 or 4 days to complete the loop. Allow more time if you want to trek, which I highly recommend.

Pin The Best Places to visit in Vietnam for later.

Best Places to Visit in Central Vietnam

Recommended by Monique | MC Adventure Blog

Ninh Binh is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam. Not only can you take in breathtaking views from the 500 stairs of Mua Caves, but you can also take in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Trang An.

Trang An gives you the opportunity to explore towering limestone karsts via a 3-hour boat tour with a local guide. Explore beautiful hidden temples, take in the set from Kong: Skull Island, and squeeze your way under hundreds of meters of river caves for an unforgettable experience. Most importantly, Mua Caves Ecolodge gives you the chance to fall asleep to the sound of frogs, with not a car horn in earshot!

Get there by bus or train from Hanoi, and make this an overnight trip to really enjoy the stunning countryside. If you have the time, head to Chookies in Tam Coc for sundowners and great pizza. Your Vietnamese bucket list cannot miss out on Ninh Binh , a lush and epic paradise just outside of Hanoi!

Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park

Recommended by Jeanne Malherbe | Learning to Breathe Abroad 

The Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park in Vietnam is home to the world’s largest cave and the oldest karst mountains in Asia. This 400 million year old site was only discovered 20 years ago and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003.

Not only has this incredible cave system made the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park the country’s top natural highlight, but the surrounding forest offers jungle trekking and mountain biking opportunities to the more adventurous. These additional activities have caused the area to become popularly known as the ‘Adventure Capital of Asia’.

There are over 500 caves in Phong Na, but only 30 are accessible to visitors. The most popular are the Phong Nha Cave, Tra Ang Cave, Paradise Cave, Dark Cave, Hang E Cave, Elephant Cave, Hang Over Cave and the Son Doong Cave. Some are easily accessible while others require a guide and even a zip line across a river!

The town of Phong Nha has lots of accommodation, restaurants, and an ATM. Buses run daily to various other towns. The closest town is Dong Hoi, which is a quick taxi ride away. You can also catch the train to Dong Hoi and then bus or taxi to the park.

The Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is so much more than just the caves. Therefore, I would recommend spending at least two or three days, to get the full experience.

Quang Tri Province and the Former DMZ

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Sandwiched between the popular tourist city of Hue to the south and the former DMZ to the north, sits Quang Tri Province, Vietnam. An off-the-beaten-path tourist destination, Quang Tri Province is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for history lovers.

Around Quang Tri Province travelers can visit a number of historical sites relating to the Vietnam war, including the famous former American base at Khe Sanh. Exploring the Vinh Moc tunnels along the former border between North and South Vietnam offers travelers a unique perspective on how the war was fought from the North. Finally, Truong Son Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Adorned with thousands of incense sticks to honor their memories, it is a sight to see. Just driving through the area, though, there are monuments to the war around almost every bend.

The sites around Quang Tri Province are spread out, which requires a local driver and guide who can explain what each site or monument means. Dong Ha, the main city in Quang Tri Province, is a 90-minute drive from Hue. Additionally, it is possible to take a train from Hue to Dong Ha.

Travelers looking to dive into the history of Quang Tri Province during the Vietnam War are encouraged to spend 3 to 5 days in the area. The travel time between war sites can vary from short drives to upwards of 2-3 hours.

Accommodations in the region are basic but slowly improving. The Province enjoys access to the sea with a sandy beach area located 10 miles from the center of Dong Ha. It’s a welcome relief from a long day of sightseeing.

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Hue is full of history and nothing captures it more than the great Imperial City of Hue , the fortified complex of royal buildings. This was the center of power during the Nguyen Dynasty, which united Vietnam in 1802 and was the last of the imperial dynasties to rule the country. Although many of the buildings inside the Imperial City were damaged during the Vietnam War, it will still take you several hours to see all the temples and palaces properly.

Other than the Imperial City (also known as the Citadel), the other most popular sights are the tombs of the emperors, which are stretched out along the Perfume River to the south of Hue. You can get a taxi or ride a bike but a lot of people like to visit them as part of a boat cruise. If you’re heading along the river, also look out for the striking Thien Me Pagoda.

Hue is not a particularly large city – especially from a tourist’s perspective – so you can easily walk around its centre. You only need a couple of days to see the main sights and explore a bit. The main north-south train stops in Hue and it’s also well connected by buses to places like Hoi An.

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If you are making your way up through Vietnam, then easily one of the best places to visit in Vietnam is Da Nang. We visited there as a day trip from the city of Hoi An and absolutely loved it! There is so much to do there, such as driving up and over Tho Quang, which is a large mountain located right by the water. From the top, the views are amazing, and it’s a great place to be for sunset.

This actually ended up being one of my favorite experiences from traveling Vietnam and would recommend it to everyone passing through. As well as this, you should visit the famous Marble Mountain, and explore ancient caves and temples hidden amongst the rocks. Another thing you should also do is visit the Golden Bridge.

It is possible to stay in Da Nang for a night or two, but you are also able to see all of the best sites on a day trip from Hoi An. We got there by moped, but you can also arrange bus transfers if you are passing through and wish to stay there.

Steeped in history, and any culture seekers dream, Hoi An is simply a must on your ‘where to go in Vietnam’ list. And for an excellent reason. This sleepy town packs a bunch of exciting activities for anyone craving small-town vibes, especially after experiencing the bustle of bigger cities in Vietnam.  

At the heart of Hoi An lies The Ancient Town, which also happens to be a world-renowned UNESCO site. The Old Town is home to everything from wooden Chinese shophouses and temples to colorful French colonial buildings, decorative Vietnamese tube houses and the mesmerizing Old Bridge built by the Japanese.

In short, you wouldn’t find a better place to experience rustic Vietnam than here, where a mix of eras and styles seamlessly blend together. Wander or even bike along quaint streets lined with colorful shophouses, hipster cafes, and funky art galleries. Or better yet, get lost in the maze of nooks and crannies which dot off around every corner. Keep in mind though: there is a small mandatory entrance fee of US$5. This goes towards maintaining and preserving the city. 

One of Hoi An’s biggest draws apart from its deep-rooted history is its arts. Whatever you do don’t leave Hoi An without taking a lantern making class and a getting tailor-made outfit. Those seeking to venture beyond the Old Town, don’t miss one of the glorious sandy beaches nearby. Biking to An Bang Beach is a popular activity for sunshine seekers and beachgoers. Foodies also won’t be disappointed as Hoi An is one of the best places to enjoy authentic street food in Vietnam. To get a real feel of the town and attractions, spend at least 2-3 days here.

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Best Places to Visit Vietnam – Southeast Coast

Nha Trang is one of Vietnam’s premier beach destinations and a must for anyone looking for a cheap beach vacation while in Vietnam. Spend your days lounging around Tran Phu Beach or dipping in the calm waters of the South China Sea. For those wanting to enjoy the beach vibes with a cocktail in hand, drop by the Sailing Club for a well-deserved sundowner.

Excitement seekers, on the other hand,  can try their hand at kitesurfing, surfing, snorkeling or cycling along the promenade, nearby. Nha Trang also won’t disappoint shopaholics! Head to the Dam Market which is the perfect spot to pick up local trinkets and cheap knockoffs.  

The Vinpearl Amusement Park on Hon Tre Island is also a great spot to spend a few hours. Be sure to also visit the massive aquarium and get a bird’s-eye view of the bay by cable car! 

Besides these, Nha Trang also offers visitors a glimpse into age-old traditions and boasts some great outdoor activities. Pop by the religious towers of Po Nagar Cham Towers for breathtaking views over the Cai River and a peek into this Hindu holy place of worship. If you have a bit more time, consider visiting the Ba Ho Waterfalls for a quick dip in the fresh mountain waters. Or better yet, head to the Hon Khoi Salt Fields for fantastic photo ops.

Visiting the nearby hot springs and chilling in a mud bath is another popular treat in Nha Trang. So if you fancy getting yourself covered in mud definitely give it a try! 

No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in Nha Trang – making it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam! Spend at least 2-3 days here to really take in the sunshine and enjoy the ocean.

Mũi Né is a famous beach town, well-known for its quaint fishing village and excellent adventure sports. Although Mũi Né might seem unassuming to most travelers to Vietnam, this weird town (which is just a 4km strip along the coast of Southeast Vietnam) is packed with golden sand beaches and a haven for adrenaline junkies.

Kitesurfing, sailing, and windsurfing are just a few of the water sports you can enjoy here! Stop by White Sand Dune where hopping on a quad-bike is a favorite amongst locals and adrenaline junkies. Then head over to Red Dune for the best sunset in town. Some vendors sell local snacks and coconuts near the parking lot, so be sure to grab some refreshments before heading up the dune! The Fairy Stream – where red clay formations and lush vegetation make an exciting backdrop along a gentle stream – is another popular spot for nature seekers.

Mũi Né might not be on every traveler’s destination hit-list when planning their Vietnam itinerary, but it’s a good pitstop on your travels to or from Ho Chi Minh City.

Dirt cheap sleeper buses run daily between HCMC and Phan Thiet , while shared shuttle buses between HCMC and Mũi Né are also available for a few bucks more. The journey takes about 5 hours.

Mũi Né has excellent beaches and an endless supply of adventure sports opportunities. However, unless you’ve booked yourself into one of the high-end resorts, don’t spend too much time here. There’s honestly not that much to do, and you can quickly get your adrenaline fix, enjoy some beach time and see the main sights in a day or two.

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Vung Tau is one of the places that you don’t normally see in travel guides about Vietnam, but what you don’t know is that it’s a little hidden gem not far from Ho Chi Minh City. A place where you can surf, hike or simply have a few lazy days between your long and exhausting trip – a place to breathe a little.

Vung Tau is not crowded nor expensive, so you can still enjoy your Vietnam trip. There are hostels for as cheap as $5 or private rooms for as low as $10. You can also rent a motorbike for $5 or less a day. Since it’s a beach town, expect that every restaurant offers fresh seafood dishes without spending too much.

You can either come from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau (about 2-3 hour drive) or from Mui Ne. Either way, you can reach it by bus or motorbike. From Ho Chi Minh City, there is also an option to take a ferry ride.

Also Read: The Best Islands to Visit in Asia

Best Places to visit in Vietnam – Southwest Highlands

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Dalat is a wonderful little surprise. After spending your days sweating like crazy, the cool spring weather that Dalat brings will be a welcomed change. The houses of Dalat will surprise and enchant you. The European feel is charming. There is something for everyone in Dalat from those who want to relax, be adventurous, learn the culture and more. Dalat is a great place for solo travelers, couples and families .

There is plenty to do around Dalat but perhaps the most thrilling thing to do is get on a motorcycle or scooter and ride to, or from Dalat. The green hills and valleys are memorable, creating scenes that are sure to stay with you for a long time to come. If you are not confident enough to ride yourself you can jump on the back with a local tour guide.

Another outstanding experience in Dalat is the Mr. Rot Secret Tour. I can’t tell you too much about this tour as it is a secret. Make sure you get the original and not the copies that Vietnam is susceptible to. You are guaranteed an amazing time, plenty of laughs, and a chance to learn more about Vietnamese culture.

The crazy house and the 100 roof bar are simply unmissable! These are places you will not see anywhere else in Vietnam and are both creative, genius, and wonderful.

Adventure junkies can also do canyoning, which is famous in Dalat. 

Ho Chi Minh City

As the former capital of Vietnam and often referred to as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is diverse in all senses imaginable. From its vibrant streets and lively markets selling all kinds of bits and bobs to its street food and deep-rooted history – any visit here is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Ho Chi Minh City might be many things, but the one thing that is bound to leave a lasting impression on you is the absolute chaotic bustle of the city. Which oddly enough seems to be organized chaos!

The streets are filled with different smells and sights. Not to mention scooters and motorbikes racing past, all eagerly honking their way through the dense traffic. Navigating yourself here might be a tad harder than the rest of Vietnam.  So if there is one tip, I can give you – watch out for the scooters on the sidewalks! If you aren’t comfortable walking, Grab taxis are plentiful.

As for things to do, the options are endless! And any visit here will quickly reveal why HCMC is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. Get a closer look at the city’s pivotal role in the Vietnam War by stepping foot in the War Remnants Museum. Or pop by the Notre-Dame Cathedral – one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. A short stroll away, you can drop by the Saigon Central Post Office where Ho Chi Minh’s picture is on display. The Independence Palace and the Saigon Skydeck are other activities not to miss on your visit here.

Also, don’t miss the chance to shop till you drop at Ben Thanh Market – one of the best spots to hunt for local souvenirs! But don’t forget to haggle!  

Best Places to visit in the Mekong Delta

No visit to Vietnam would be complete without cruising along the Mekong River Delta. If you are pressed for time, Cái Bè is the perfect solution.

This small fishing village that is home to stilt houses, unique riverscapes, and delicious fresh produce is just a short 2-hour trip away from Ho Chi Minh City and easily explored on a day trip .

Day trips can be booked practically anywhere in HCMC, and travel agencies offer numerous packages to suit every traveler’s pocket. Usually, these will also include stopping by the world-renowned Cu Chi Tunnels where you can get a glimpse into what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers on the front lines.

Cruising along the Mekong River, canoeing through the mysterious river canals, visiting the floating market, cycling along with lush greenery and sampling some of the local tropical fruit are just a few of the unique things you can enjoy on a day trip to Cái Bè.

Cái Bè doesn’t offer much in terms of accommodation, but it’s a great place to visit in Vietnam even if it is just for a day!

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Not so many travelers make it down to Can Tho in Southern Vietnam, but it’s well worth adding it to your best places to visit Vietnam itinerary. Located about four hours south from Ho Chi Minh City, or four and a half hours from Ha Tien, the southern border with Cambodia, Can Tho is the biggest city in the Mekong Delta area.

The Mekong Delta region grows most of Vietnam’s fruit, and is a prosperous area for rice farming, with 3-4 yields per year.

Life here understandably revolves around the river; so as far as attractions in Can Tho go, you’ll want to head out to the water! It’s possible to see the local floating market at sunrise, head to the land market, cycle around the countryside and tour a local cocoa plantation.

There are also some museums and temples in Can Tho city, but a big part of visiting the Mekong Delta area is just relaxing and enjoying the surrounding nature. It’s one of the most beautiful parts of the country, along with friendly people who love to chat to visitors (because Can Tho is actually quite a large city, many locals can speak great English).

Phu Quoc Island

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Phu Quoc is the biggest Vietnamese island. It is in the extreme south-west, actually closer to the coast of Cambodia than Vietnam’s mainland. Ho Chi Minh City was hot and hectic and I was looking for some beach time. We arrived by air, but there are ferries too. The island is a Special Economic Zone, which means that tourists can stay 30 days without a visa.

Phu Quoc was perfect for our week’s holiday within a holiday.  We enjoyed clean beaches, entertainment parks, a modern aquarium, and zoo safaris.  My girls especially loved the Bee Farm, and there was even a night market for those times when we found we were missing the city after all. The food is delicious, with any number of options to enjoy a yummy prawn barbecue against an ocean sunset backdrop.

To top it all even transport is fun.  Phu Quoc is the only place in Vietnam where I would recommend hiring a scooter. Traffic is minimal, and the island is small enough to explore by yourself.  We went in true Asian style with the whole brood perched on one seat.

The island has a full spectrum of accommodation too. Choose from very simple and inexpensive home-stays to a five-star resort.  We had a great time on our break in Phu Quoc with kids , and we will be going again for sure.

Where to Go in Vietnam in Conclusion

As you can see, Vietnam is home to a whole host of amazing places to visit and things to do! While this post barely scratches the surface of awesome places to travel to in Vietnam, it undeniably covers all the must-see places to add to your Vietnam itinerary! Have you ever traveled to Vietnam? What’s your favorite place to visit in Vietnam?

Well, there you have it – the ABSOLUTE best places to go to in Vietnam! If you have any suggestions to add to this list of must-visit places in Vietnam, let me know in the comments below.

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May 5, 2020 at

I simply love Vietnam and as a pilot would visit there on many an occasion. I even managed to get in a tour of the tunnels, totally awesome! The beauty of Vietnam, the friendly people and the food are simply exquisite.

May 16, 2020 at

Thanks for taking the time to comment, Rick. Vietnam is indeed an incredible destination to visit. Glad you got a chance to see the tunnels – it was one of the highlights of our trip!

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Vietnam tips: a first-timer's guide

Aug 12, 2019 • 6 min read

Halong Bay is a World Heritage Sight and a highlight for many visitors to Vietnam ©César Asensio / 500px

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 and an abundance of cheap but excellent street food and it's no surprise Vietnam graces countless bucket lists. But, like any country, it has its challenges, and some visitors come home with tales of scams, hectic roads and pushy vendors. Following these top tips will help you avoid the major pitfalls, and ensure you come away from your first visit to Vietnam with happy memories, as well as your souvenir conical hat.

Vietnam 's long exposure to foreigners means that many local residents aren’t as overtly curious about visitors as some of their counterparts in Cambodia , Myanmar and Laos . Also, because most Vietnamese are not confident with spoken English despite learning it in school, people tend to ignore lost-looking foreigners unless you actually ask for help. But be assured that the Vietnamese really are friendly people. If you ask someone a question with a smile and in slow, clear English, you’ll almost certainly have it answered and the smile returned. Simple phrases such as  xin chào ('hello', pronounced 'seen chow') and cám ơn ('thank you', pronounced 'kaam uhn') go a long way.

Get connected

While most hotels , cafes and restaurants have wi-fi, you can easily buy a SIM card and get connected to the internet for as little as US$3. Vietnamese street names are notoriously long (most are named after people), so digital maps trump paper ones for many travellers. You’ll also find having a local phone number handy for meeting up with tour guides and making last-minute bookings on the road. SIM cards are widely sold in corner shops and are easy to top up. Once you have a card, the process to register for internet can be tricky, so ask the shopkeeper or your hotel to do it for you. Lonely Planet's Guides app covers Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City .

Know your dong from your dollar

The Vietnamese dong is the currency of Vietnam and comes in denominations ranging from 200 to 500,000 (about US$22 at the time of writing). While it’s thrilling to become a Vietnamese millionaire, dealing with that many zeros can become frustrating, especially since some of the currency is very similar in colour. For example, the 10,000d note and the 200,000d note are both tan while the 20,000d and 500,000d notes are both blue. It’s very easy to hand over the wrong bill to a taxi driver while in a rush. Spend a minute in your room before going out to sort your bills to avoid overpaying. Even if you do end up overpaying a small amount for certain things, take it in stride. In the grand scheme of things, it’ll likely not be worth the aggravation.

While international credit and debit cards are accepted at most larger hotels, restaurants and travel agencies (sometimes with an added fee), cash is still king in Vietnam for day-to-day transactions. ATMs are widely available, and currency can be exchanged at banks (and some gold shops, although this practice is frowned upon by the government).

Note that the official system of separate prices for Vietnamese and foreigners – which applied to everything from train tickets to entrance fees – is a thing of the past.

Be wary of taxi scams

For many, motorcycle taxis are the best way see the thronging streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However, scams can happen, and your best protection is a decent knowledge of where you are going and points along the way. Always agree on a price beforehand and be prepared to be quoted a higher price than the locals. For regular taxis, stick to the two major companies of Mai Linh and Vinasun (both have apps). Smaller, independent taxis are known for fast meters and aggressive drivers. If you’re in one of the larger cities, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Grab are good, offering both car and motorcycle taxis. Sometimes the driver will call to confirm, so having a Vietnamese-speaking friend nearby will come in handy.

Know your transport options

Overnight buses are a good way to cover long distances and save on accommodation costs. However, the layback seats don’t offer much legroom, so tallish passengers (anyone over 1.6m) will find it impossible to stretch out fully. While the top bunk offers slightly more privacy, they can be right at the height of street lights. Sleep masks, ear plugs and noise-cancelling headphones (especially if the bus is playing music or movies) are recommended.

That said, sometimes you can pay a few more dollars and fly – the more convenient but less sustainable option . Vietnam has several budget airlines, which offer cheap fares but are notorious for being late and strictly enforcing carry-on limits. The national carrier, Vietnam Airlines, has better service and comparable pricing if booked in advance.

More comfortable than buses and cheaper than flights, train travel is another option for getting around Vietnam. A railway line spans the length of the country, following the coastline from HCMC all the way to Hanoi and beyond. It's a must for rail enthusiasts, with the ride considered amongst the most amazing train journeys in the world .

Be aware of your surroundings

Violent crime is extremely rare in Vietnam, and firearms are heavily regulated. But snatch-and-grabs and, to a lesser extent, pickpocketing, do happen. It pays to be vigilant. Use your phone and other electronics sparingly when outside (even while sitting at a sidewalk cafe or on the back of a motorbike). Leave your passport at the hotel; there’s rarely a reason to have the original on you.

Also, while Vietnam has some of the cheapest beer in the world, be careful about overdoing it. Inebriated tourists wandering back to their hotel in the morning hours when there is little traffic around can be seen as easy targets. If you come home late at night, go with a friend and splurge the extra dollar or two on an automobile taxi instead of a motorcycle taxi.

Be safe on the roads

Traffic in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can seem terrifying at first glance. Just walking across the street during rush hour can feel like an impossible task! But there is method to the madness and, like a school of fish, the traffic will inevitably glide around you as long as you keep moving at a slow and steady pace. If unsure, do as the locals do and raise one hand high to be seen above the sea of helmets.

If you’re looking to drive a motorbike yourself, it’s best to save it for one of the quieter destinations like Hoi An , Dalat or Phu Quoc . Always wear a helmet, and be aware of the exhaust pipe, which has caused many a leg burn. As motorbikes tend to drive closely to each other, keep your feet pointed inwards and think of wearing closed shoes which offer extra protection for your feet.

For more tips on planning a trip to Vietnam, including what to wear and what to book in advance, see our planning tips .

This article was originally published in July 2012 and most recently updated in August 2019.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on June 17, 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.

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

For a change of pace, go for a stroll around the freshwater Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the Old Quarter or soak up more Vietnamese history with a visit to the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the final resting place of the Revolutionary leader and Vietnamese President, is a must-see.

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

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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.

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7 Days in Vietnam: 6 Best Itinerary Ideas for First Timers

Seven days in Vietnam may seem like too short a time, but if you are looking to do a quick vacation, get ready to be surprised at how many exciting one-week Vietnam trips you can do!

Vietnam is a long country, from north to south. While your 7-day itinerary could involve multiple regions, we recommend that you focus on one or two regions , especially if you dislike moving from one place to another during a short trip.

In this article, we've rounded up the most popular one-week Vietnam itineraries, from bucket-list-city combinations like Hanoi and Ho Chin Minh to must-visit destinations like Halong Bay and lesser-visited places like the stunningly beautiful Sapa.

Excited? Let's get started in discovering the very best 7-day Vietnam trip itineraries!

• Itinerary 1: Vietnam Highlights Tour from North to South
• Itinerary 2: The Best of Northern Vietnam
• Itinerary 3: North and Central Vietnam
• Itinerary 4: Central Vietnam
• Itinerary 5: Southern Vietnam City and Beach Holiday
• Itinerary 6: From Southern Vietnam to North Cambodia

How Much Does One Week in Vietnam Cost?

7-day vietnam itinerary 1: vietnam highlights tour from north to south.

It is possible to visit Vietnam from north to south in 7 days, but it would be a tight schedule . It is important to plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize which destinations and attractions you want to see. A private tour is the best way to make the most of your time .

In your 7 days, we suggest visiting the three iconic cities and their surroundings, Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north , Hoi An in the central , and Ho Chin Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south . This would allow you to experience the best of Vietnam's culture, history, natural beauty, and cuisine in just 7 days.

Here is a sample itinerary for inspiration:

• Day 1: Hanoi arrival, city sightseeing
• Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay, overnight cruise on Halong Bay
• Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi, Hanoi – Hoi An
• Day 4: Hoi An sightseeing
• Day 5: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh
• Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing, the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 7: Day trip to the Mekong Delta, HCMC departure

On this tour, you would start in Hanoi , exploring the city's rich history and culture. Then, you'd take an overnight trip to Halong Bay to see the stunning natural beauty of the area. While your time is limited, allowing a night to cruise on the bay is highly recommended considering the 2–3 hours' drive to get there, and it is a perfect place to relax for couples or families.

You would then travel to Hoi An , a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, and spend a whole day exploring the town's beautiful architecture, delicious food, etc. Many interesting activities for couples and families can be personalized based on your interests, such as an evening foodie tour, a cooking class, lantern-making, and/or a farming/fishing experience.

Finally, you would end your trip in Ho Chi Minh City , experiencing the bustling city's historic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and the Vietnam War's legacy — the Cu Chi Tunnels. You would take a day trip to the Mekong Delta to see fertile farmland, handicrafts, and floating markets before departing from Ho Chi Minh City.

Visiting Vietnam in seven days is doable, but it may be too much of a rush, especially if you're traveling with kids. We recommend that you plan a trip of at least 10 days to do the above more comfortably . Our popular 10-day itinerary has been enjoyed by many first-timers. Contact us to have us personalize a tour for you.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 2: The Best of Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam has to be one of the most beautiful regions in the country. With ancient temples, its dramatic seascape, and idyllic countryside, this region is truly breathtaking.

A seven-day trip covering northern Vietnam is recommended for culture and nature lovers . You can choose between a more leisurely tour around Hanoi or add Sapa, a mountainous town a little further north to your itinerary.

Option 1: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Mai Chau – Halong Bay Journey

Our popular Northern Vietnam itinerary would take you on a journey through some of the region's most popular destinations, including Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Halong Bay. You'd explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, visit ancient temples and pagodas, marvel at the stunning limestone cliffs and rice paddies of Ninh Binh, have a valley cycling tour in Mai Chau, and enjoy a cruise on the emerald waters of Halong Bay.

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.
• Day 6: A visual feast on a Halong Bay cruise
• Day 7: Halong Bay to Hanoi and departure

See the detailed itinerary or contact us and we'll tailor-make a tour for you .

Option 2: Hanoi–Sapa–Halong Adventure

If you're looking for a more-adventurous experience and to get more of a taste of minority culture in Northern Vietnam, you should definitely consider visiting Sapa. In Sapa, you can trek round its rice terraces and mountains, visit local villages, and learn about the local culture and traditions.

This itinerary is suitable for couples and families who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

• Day 3: Uncover the lifestyle of the Black H'mong with a half-day trekking tour in Sapa.
• Day 4: Discover the fairy-tale Love Waterfall, Scenic Heaven's Gate, and Mount Fansipan.
• Day 5: Drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 3: North and Central Vietnam

If you don't want to spend your full week in northern Vietnam, then a 7-day itinerary covering North Vietnam and Central Vietnam is a great option. This itinerary will take you on a journey through some of the most popular destinations in northern and central Vietnam.

You'll explore the bustling streets of Hanoi , enjoy a cruise on the emerald waters of Halong Bay , and stroll through the charming ancient town of Hoi An .

The tour is relatively slow-paced , perfect for families with children or retired couples.

Here is a sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
• Day 2: Hanoi city sightseeing and a street food tour
• Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay, overnight cruising on Halong Bay
• Day 4: Halong Bay – Hoi An
• Day 5: Hoi An sightseeing
• Day 6: Enjoy a free day in Hoi An or experience more activities like a farming or fishing experience, or a cooking class.
• Day 7: End of trip, depart Vietnam

Let us know your ideal tour length and interests, and we'll design a tour for you .

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 4: Central Vietnam

This itinerary focuses on the central region of Vietnam. During your one-week trip, you'd explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An , visit the imperial city of Hue , and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Da Nang .

You'd have the opportunity to take a sunset cruise, enjoy candlelit dinners, and stroll through ancient streets, making it a perfect romantic getaway for couples .

For families, there are plenty of family-friendly activities such as making lanterns, farming/fishing experiences, and trekking in a nature reserve. You'll also have the chance to try delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Time on a tropical beach would top it off nicely.

Suggested itinerary at a glance:

• Day 1: Da Nang arrival and city tour
• Day 2: Da Nang – Hoi An
• Day 3: Hoi An – My Son Sanctuary day trip
• Day 4: Hoi An – Hue
• Day 5: Hue – Bach Ma National Park day trip
• Day 6: Hue – Da Nang
• Day 7: Da Nang departure

Let us tailor-make your trip today and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 5: Southern Vietnam City and Beach Holiday

With its vibrant city, lovely villages, stunning beaches, and incredible food, it's easy to love the south of Vietnam. A trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island with a journey into the Mekong Delta will show you the best the region has to offer.

This is a relaxing tour, suitable for families and retired couples who want to enjoy a leisurely vacation .

• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City arrival
• Day 2: A half-day Ho Chi Minh City tour and the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 3: Discover the Mekong Delta.
• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc Island
• Days 5–6: Relax on the beach
• Day 7: Phu Quoc Island – Ho Chi Minh City, departure

Does this itinerary meet your needs? If not, please contact us for customization .

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 6: From Southern Vietnam to North Cambodia

If you don't want to limit your vacation to South Vietnam, you could easily have a tour that combines the best of southern Vietnam and northern Cambodia.

Our popular tour would allow you to uncover the charm of Ho Chi Minh City and unveil the Mekong Delta's lifestyle during your stay in South Vietnam. Then, you'd explore the heart and soul of Cambodia by visiting Angkor Wat and more highlights in Siem Reap.

• Day 2: A half-day Ho Chi Minh City tour plus the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 3: Discovering the Mekong Delta
• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City and flight to Siem Reap
• Day 5: A full day to explore the mysterious Angkor temples
• Day 6: Get to know Cambodia more at Banteay Srei, the Landmine Museum, and Tonle Sap Lake.
• Day 7: Siem Reap Departure

See the detailed itinerary or contact us for a tour tailor-made for you .

Vietnam is a very affordable country. It offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and tours, at prices that can match different levels of spending.

The costs vary based on different standards and needs. For a private tour, the cost per person for one week in Vietnam ranges from about 1,000 to 2,000 USD (medium budget to luxury).

• 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).

Tour Vietnam with Us

At Asia Highlights we have lots of experience with creating the perfect trip for any traveler, especially for couples and families. We understand what makes traveling special and are dedicated to providing a personalized and fulfilling experience.

Get a wonderful Vietnam vacation simply by sending us a message . Or check out our sample itineraries for inspiration:

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.

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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 .

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.

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.

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.

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 😉

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 .

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.

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.

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!

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 .

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.

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 .

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

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!

“ 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.

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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 . 🙏

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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.

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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 Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Hoan Kiem Lake

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

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5. Nha Trang - Coastal Town For the Party Animals

Known For : Po Nagar Cham Towers Long Son Pagoda Nha Trang Beach

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: January - August

43 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

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While hiking to the peak, you will come across a fancy walkway which is decorated with 18 bronze statues. A major attraction at Fansipan Mountain that you should not miss is the 21-metre-tall statue of Buddha.Next to the statue, there is a beautiful monastery named, Bich Van Zen Monastery where you can learn about Buddhist culture and admire its unique architecture. Additionally, there is a stupa which has 11 stories and holds major religious significance for the locals.While exploring all this, you can take some rest at the gorgeous Cafe du Soleil and enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the breathtaking views. Also Checkout :7 day vietnam tour

Hai Tang Pagoda is built on a pristine island and is surrounded by huge mountains, dense forests and rice fields. Here, you can learn about its intriguing history, and Buddhist culture as well as meditate for a soothing experience. Inside the temple, you will get to see several statues made of wood. Visit this temple on your Vietnam trip and as soon as you enter the temple, you will get to see that it is divided into three separate sections. The middle section is for Tam The Buddha which is a symbol of the female Buddha, Arya Tara. To the right, there are statues of Luu Binh, Tam Thanh Quan Cong, and Chau Xuong, whereas, to the left, there is a statue of Dia Tang Bodhisattva.Click Here To Book: Vietnam packages for 7 days

Fantasy Park Vietnam, nestled in the heart of Vietnam, is an enchanting amusement park that promises an extraordinary experience for visitors of all ages. Upon entering the park, guests are immediately transported to a magical realm filled with fantastical wonders. The park's allure lies in its diverse and captivating attractions that cater to a wide range of interests.Thrill-seekers are in for an adrenaline rush as they embark on daring roller coaster rides that whisk them through the skies and offer breathtaking views of the park's beautifully landscaped surroundings. Adventure seekers can partake in interactive experiences that lead them on mythical quests, encouraging them to unleash their inner hero or heroine.For those seeking gentler fun, the park boasts whimsical carousel rides, teacup rides, and other family-friendly attractions. Fantasy-themed areas are scattered throughout the park, each one immersing visitors in the stories of legendary beings and mystical creatures.One of the park's highlights is its mesmerizing entertainment shows, featuring talented acrobats, magicians, and performers, captivating audiences with their skill and artistry. The vibrant colors, intricate designs, and attention to detail in every corner of the park create a truly captivating atmosphere.With a focus on providing an inclusive experience, Fantasy Park Vietnam also caters to families with young children. Special play zones are designed to engage and entertain kids, ensuring that they have a delightful and memorable time.From the moment visitors step foot in Fantasy Park Vietnam until the moment they leave, they are immersed in a fantastical world that ignites their imagination and leaves them with cherished memories of this extraordinary wonderland. Whether it's the thrill of soaring on a dragon-themed roller coaster, the joy of meeting whimsical characters, or the wonder of watching a spellbinding show, the park offers an unforgettable journey into the realms of fantasy and magic.Checkout: 7-day Vietnam tour

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11 Awesome Itineraries to Spend 7 Days in Vietnam

If you’re visiting Vietnam and only have 7 days to explore this fabulous country , then you’re at the right place. The 7 days in Vietnam will go by super fast, so you’ll need to plan ahead of time the places and attractions that you want to see. 

Since this country is S-shaped and the cities are spread out, we suggest that you focus your week in Vietnam on specific regions in the North, Central, or Southern areas. If you want to go from North to South Vietnam or vice versa, it is possible. 

In this post, we’ll provide you with 11 different itineraries to spend 7 days in Vietnam. We currently live in Vietnam and know that the opportunities are endless. Feel free to adjust the number of days in each of the locations based on your interests. 

One thing to know is that you’ll need to factor in the transportation time especially to return to your departure city. There aren’t any high-speed bullet trains yet so taking local transportation and/or domestic flights will take some time and it’s accounted for in the itineraries.

Click on the links below to jump to a certain section of the Vietnam 1 week itinerary:

• North Vietnam
• Central Vietnam
• South Vietnam
• North to South Vietnam

Before you read this post, check out our other handy Vietnam posts to help with your travel plans:

• Vietnam budget tips
• Visiting Vietnam for the first time
• What to pack for Vietnam
• Vietnam travel apps to have

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

North Vietnam Itineraries for One Week

Itinerary #1: hanoi – ninh binh – halong bay.

This route is considered a typical 1 week itinerary to explore the best of Northern Vietnam.

Stop #1: Hanoi (2 Days)

Hanoi ( Hà Nội in Vietnamese ) is the capital of Vietnam and it’s a great introduction to Vietnam. It has a rich history with iconic buildings and museums, tons of street foods and cafes, and fun attractions to check out. 

You’ll land at Hanoi International Airport (airport code: HAN), which is about 40 minutes away from Old Quarter, the main area of Hanoi. 

We recommend that you stay nearby the Old Quarter as it’s a touristy spot with easy access to cafes and restaurants. Try the egg coffee as it originated in Hanoi. 

Old Quarter is a bustling area with lots of shopping opportunities to buy souvenirs . You’ll find a street that focuses on lanterns, another on stuffed animals. It’s pretty random but cool to walk around and explore. 

If you like museums, check out the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (where Ho Chi Minh is embalmed), or the National Museum of History. 

One of the Instagram-worthy photo spots is visiting Hanoi train street . The train squeezes through a narrow residential area. Hang out at one of the cafes to see the train pass by. 

For some quietness, take a walk around Ho Kiem Lake . It’s around 1.2 miles and is located in the center of town. 

You can also watch a water puppet show in the evening. It’s a fun show to learn about Vietnamese stories and folklore but with puppets in the water. 

Stay overnight in Hanoi. Click here for hotel options in Hanoi. 

Stop #2: Ninh Binh (1 or 2 Days)

Ninh Binh ( Ninh Bình ) is a gorgeous place with limestone karsts, riverways, and rice fields. It’s often called “Halong Bay on land.” (Halong Bay is a UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site with over 1,600 limestone karsts islands.)

From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, you’ll take either a private car or a bus. Or, take a tour . Expect to take 2 hours. 

Once you’re in Ninh Binh, take a relaxing ride boat on a sampan through the Trang An Grotto . Trang An is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The boat ride is 1.5-2 hours long. You’ll get to see tall limestone karsts, local fishermen checking their traps, and beautiful scenery. One of the coolest things to see is your sampan driver paddling the boat with their feet. 

Fun fact: Did you know that the Kong movie was filmed here? 

Afterward, visit the temples such as Hang Mua and Bich Dong Pagoda . Climb to the top for the photogenic views of the rice fields and the limestone karsts.

If you can either visit Ninh Binh as a day trip and return to Hanoi for the evening or stay overnight in Ninh Binh. Click here to see accommodation options in Ninh Binh. 

Ninh Binh is another place to visit when you’re in Northern Vietnam. Photo credit: Jessica May via Scopio Photos

Stop #3: Halong Bay (3 Days)

Halong Bay ( Vịnh Hạ Long ) is one of the prettiest destinations to visit in Vietnam . It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site to add to your visit. There are over 2,000 small limestone islands around the bay. Some of these islands have caves inside. 

To get to Halong Bay from Hanoi, you can take a bus or hire a driver. It’ll take 4 hours to get to the Halong Bay port. Or, you can take a tour which may include transportation. 

The best part about visiting Halong Bay is the chance to stay overnight on a junker boat. It’s much nicer than it sounds as these boats are retrofitted and have a luxurious feel. You can get a private room with an ensuite bathroom. You’re also served fresh seafood during your stay. 

Since there are many companies that offer this trip, check out these recommendations on the best Halong Bay cruise to take.

If you’re worried about motion sickness, don’t worry. The boat moves slowly across the bay and the water isn’t too choppy.

Hang out at the boat’s rooftop to see the small islands and awe at the turquoise water pass by. Other activities include taking a sampan to go to a floating village, kayaking or swimming off of a small beach area, and exploring caves . 

Reserve this 3 night cruise on Halong Bay here. 

Add Halong Bay to your itinerary to see the gorgeous limestone karsts and the bay. Photo credit: Tan Pham via Scopio Photos

Stop #4: Return to Hanoi or Haiphong (1 Day)

On your last day in Vietnam, take a minivan or bus to Hanoi or Haiphong

Depending on the time of your flight, you can spend some time in Old Quarter in Hanoi or head directly to the airport, Noi Bai International Airport. 

Ask your transportation agency if you can arrange a drop-off at the airport. This is a convenient option so you can hop onto a plane. 

You can also head directly to Haiphong’s Cat Bi International Airport (airport code: HPH) to take limited international flights. Domestic flights are available from here. 

Itinerary #2: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Sapa

For this 7 day in Northern Vietnam itinerary, we’re adding a visit to see rice terraces in the gorgeous Sapa area. 

With two days in Hanoi, you can pick a few of the attractions in Itinerary #1 to focus on. 

Stop #2: Ninh Binh (1 Day)

With this itinerary, you’ll spend 1 day in Ninh Binh. Feel free to pick a couple of attractions to visit from Itinerary #1 to check out on your Ninh Binh day trip.

Stop #3: Sapa (3 Days)

Sapa (Sa Pa) is a popular spot in the Lao Cai Province. It’s located in a mountainous area and is famous for the golden and green rice terraces and pretty sceneries. 

From Hanoi to Sapa, it’ll take 5-6 hours by bus, minivan, or limousine van. There isn’t any airport transportation here yet. Check out our post on various transportation options from Hanoi to Sapa and vice versa. 

Once you’re in Sapa, wander through the center of town to check out the souvenir shops and try roasted chestnuts or chestnut bread. 

Fansipan Mountain is one of the highlights of Sapa . It’s a staggering 3,143 meters (10,312 feet) high. Take the cable car and funicular to the summit from Sapa’s city center. Or, take the challenge and hike to Fansipan peak in 1-2 days. (We did it in one day!)

Trekking is a popular activity in Sapa . Take 1-3+ days to wander through the rice terraces and stop by ethnic minority villages and stay overnight at homestays. Cat Cat Village and Lao Chai Valley are popular trekking spots. Check out where we trekked for 2 days . We recommend that you also read our Sapa trekking tips here . 

Read our Sapa in 3 days itinerary for more information. 

Sapa has plenty of guesthouses and boutique hotels for your overnight stay. Click here for accommodation options in Sapa. 

Sapa is beautiful to visit at any time of the year.

Stop #4: Departure to Hanoi (1 Day)

On your 7th day in Vietnam, take a bus or minivan from Sapa to Hanoi or directly to the airport. 

Itinerary #3: Hanoi – Ha Giang Loop

This 7 day Vietnam route is for those who want to go on an adventure and explore a less-touristy spot. If you’ve already been to Northern Vietnam before, then this is a good option.

Stop #1: Hanoi (1 Day)

Follow the Hanoi itinerary above for ideas on what to do. We only have 1 day in Hanoi so choose a couple of attractions to focus on. 

Stop #2: Ha Giang Loop (5 Days)

Ha Giang Loop ( Hà Giang) is considered one of the fun bucket list things to do in Vietnam . It’s an opportunity to explore an off-the-beaten path and take a motorbike trip through an untapped area of a northern Vietnam province. 

From Hanoi to Ha Giang, take a bus or minivan. Expect 6-7 hours to get there so you’ll need some time for traveling. 

Afterward, join a tour and wander through various areas of the province. You’ll need to know how to ride a motorbike or hire a driver/Easy Rider who can ride the motorbike (or car) on your behalf. The roads are windy yet offer beautiful views along the way. Most people tend to go in a clockwise or counterclockwise route to explore the loop. 

Stop by places such as Thac Ba Lake, wander through ethnic villages, ride a boat along Nho Que River, and visit Ba Be National Park (one of the top national parks to visit in Vietnam ). 

Read our 4 Days in Ha Giang Loop itinerary here .

Reserve this Ha Giang Loop trip here. 

Ha Giang Loop is a pretty destination to visit during your 1 week in Vietnam. Photo credit: JayHub via Depositphotos.com

Stop #3: Go back to Hanoi (1 Day)

It’s time to return to Hanoi on your last day in Vietnam. 

If you have a flight scheduled on this day, you may consider taking a later flight. The traffic from Ha Giang to Hanoi may have delays so you don’t want to miss your flight. 

Itinerary #4: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Cat Ba Island 

We suggest that you follow the Hanoi things to-do list in the Itinerary #1 section. 

Stop #2: Halong Bay (2 Days)

Halong Bay is doable to explore in 2 days. When making a reservation for a Halong Bay tour, ask for a 2 day / 1 night trip. Reserve this 2 day Halong Bay trip here. 

Refer to Itinerary #1 regarding transportation options to get to Halong Bay. If your tour includes transportation, then that is even better!

Stop #3: Cat Ba Island (2 Days)

For a quieter and less touristy area of Halong Bay, check out Cat Ba Island ( Cát Bà ). It’s considered one of the best islands to explore in Vietnam . 

From Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island, it can be easily reached by ferry or speedboat. More information is here. 

Rent a motorbike to explore the island and take pretty photos along the coastline. You can also explore the Cat Ba National Park and go hiking around the island. There are a few beaches to relax on. 

Click here to see accommodations on Cat Ba Island. 

Cat Ba Island is beautiful place to visit during your 7 days in Vietnam. Photo credit: fbxx via Depositphotos.com

Central Vietnam Routes

Itinerary #5 : danang – hoi an – hue.

If you plan to focus on Central Vietnam, then there are plenty of places to explore. Below is a typical Central Vietnam itinerary where you can learn more here . 

Stop #1: Danang (3 Days)

Danang ( Đà Nẵng ) is the largest city in Central Vietnam and the fifth largest in Vietnam. Tourists and local visitors love coming to Danang for the nonstop sunshine, beaches, temples, and theme parks . 

You’ll land at Danang International Airport (airport code: DAD) and then head to your destination. 

The beaches are one of the highlights of Danang. You can’t go wrong with the My Khe Beach which has golden sand that stretches for miles. 

For temples, check out one of the Lady Buddha statues at Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula. You can climb up the peaks of Marble Mountain to also see gorgeous views of Danang and visit the smaller temples.  

We can’t forget about the hottest European-style theme park in Danang – Sun World Ba Na Hills. It’s home to the Instagram-worthy Golden Bridge, two stone hands holding up a golden bridge. There are dance performances, alpine coasters, indoor games, and more. Read our Ba Na Hills guide here.  

Another theme park to check out is Sun World Danang Wonders . This is the place to visit for the thrilling theme park rides. Read our Danang Wonders guide here . 

For more information, check out our Danang 3 days itinerary here . 

As for accommodations, stay at a 5-star resort or hotel or a guesthouse. Stay nearby the beach for easier access. Click here to check out availability for places to stay . 

Mable Mountains is a must-see attraction to visit when you’re in Danang. Photo credit: bloodua via Depositphotos.com

Stop #2: Hoi An (1 Day)

Hoi An ( Hội An) is easily one of the tourists’ favorite towns to visit in Vietnam. It’s another UNESCO recognized site and known as a former port town. 

Many visitors love the Ancient Town vibe with the yellow buildings, cobblestone roads, historic buildings, and the gentle river flowing between the town. 

Purchase an entrance ticket to have access to temples, museums, and local attractions such as the pretty Japanese bridge. The cost helps preserve the local area. 

In the evenings, the city lights up with colorful silk lanterns. Wander through the Night Markets for souvenir shopping or have dinner along the river. 

From Danang to Hoi An, take a taxi or ride-hailing vehicle. It’ll take 30-40 minutes to get there. 

Return to Danang in the evening to stay overnight. 

These silk lanterns in Hoi An are gorgeous at night.

Stop #3: Hue (2 Days)

Hue ( Huế ) is another awesome spot to visit for a few days. It’s known as the Imperial City where the Nguyen Dynasty lived from 1802 to 1945. 

To get to Hue from Danang, hire a driver, take a car tour , or consider taking a motorbike tour along the Hai Van Pass. Expect to take 2 hours one-way. 

The ancient Imperial City houses the collection of buildings and is surrounded by a moat as the “Complex of Hue Monuments” which is another UNESCO site . Either hire a guide or wander through the Hue Monuments. It’s a large area so you can easily take a full day here.

We can’t forget about the food. Central Vietnam’s food has unique flavors compared to other areas. Try the bún bò Huế (beef noodle soup) and bánh bèo (steamed rice cakes topped with dried shrimp).

Stay overnight in Hue for 2 nights. Find your perfect accommodations here. 

Check out these gates when visiting the Imperial City. Photo credit: efired via Depositphotos.com

Stop #4: Return to Danang (1 Day)

It’s time to head back to Danang from Hue and head directly to the airport, Danang International Airport, to return home. 

Itinerary #6: Danang – Phong Nha 

This itinerary focuses on a visit to Phong Nha to see the beautiful caves and go trekking through the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. 

Stop #1: Danang (2 Days)

Choose a few attractions to visit on your two days in Danang from Itinerary #5. 

Stop #2: Phong Nha (4 Days)

Phong Nha is a sleeper town within the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. It’s another recognized UNESCO recognized site and has tall limestone mountains and underground caves. 

From Danang to Phong Nha, take a train or domestic flight. The train will take at least 6 hours. While will be easier, there isn’t a direct flight from Danang to Dong Hoi (airport code: VDH), the nearest airport to Phong Nha. You would need to fly back to Hanoi and then take a flight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi. This will take 7 hours or so. 

Once you’re in Phong Nha, you’ll need a few days to explore this quiet town and area. 

One day will be spent exploring the national park loop and stopping by Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, and the Botanic Garden. 

Another day is focused on Bong Lai Valley , the rural villages and area outside of Phong Nha main town. Either explore by motorbike or bicycle. Read more about our Bong Lai Valley experience here. 

The last few days in Phong Nha are where you can go on a 2-day trek through the National Park . We did the trek to Hang En Cave with Oxalis Adventures and had the opportunity to stay overnight in the third largest cave in the world. There are other 2 day treks that you can explore from Oxalis or Jungle Boss Adventure. 

A bucket list experience would be to visit Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world. (Technically, Hang En Cave is the first two days of the Son Doong Cave tour). 

Check out our Phong Nha itinerary for a detailed breakdown of what to do here. 

Click here on where to stay in Phong Nha. 

You can’t miss this Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park Hollywood sign when entering Phong Nha town.

Stop #3: Departure (1 Day)

Return to Dong Hoi Airport and take a flight either back to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

South Vietnam Itineraries for 1 Week

While 7 days in South Vietnam is a decent amount of time, we suggest taking at least 2 weeks. Click here to see our South Vietnam itinerary for 2 weeks . 

Itinerary #7: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Mui Ne

This 7 days in Vietnam itinerary is perfect for visitors who want to explore a large city, Ho Chi Minh City, and then head to the countryside of the Mekong Delta. We end the itinerary with a visit to a beach town . 

Stop #1: Ho Chi Minh City (3 Days)

Ho Chi Minh City (also referred to as Saigon, HCMC, or Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh in Vietnamese) is a bustling city in South Vietnam. As the largest city in Vietnam, there is non-stop action here from the motorbike traffic, nightlife , shopping, and good eats. 

You’ll land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (airport code: SGN). It’ll take about 20-30 minutes to head into District 1 Downtown area. 

You’ll need to spend 1 day in HCMC to visit the main attractions such as the Saigon Cathedral, Post Office, and include a visit to the War Remnants Museum or Independence Palace. 

There are other things to do in HCMC for your other days. If you want a full day of relaxation at your hotel pool, getting a massage, or any beauty care with manicure/pedicures, go for it! You deserve a day to relax. We love getting massages at Miu Miu Spa. 

If you want to go shopping or go cafe hopping, then the main Downtown area has lots of opportunities. 

On your third day, consider taking a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City . You can visit Cu Chi Tunnels to see the underground tunnels that the Viet Cong soldiers lived through in the Vietnam War. Or, head to Can Gio to see the monkeys. 

Check out our detailed Ho Chi Minh City 3 days itinerary here . 

Check out places to stay in HCMC here. 

Check out the Ho Chi Minh Statue when visiting the Nguyen Hue walking street.

Stop #2: Mekong Delta (1 Day)

Mekong Delta is an important river for the Vietnamese people. It’s used for transportation and buying/selling fresh produce on the floating markets. There are small towns and cities specialized in certain agricultural products so each place has a unique ambiance. 

Since you have 1 day in the Mekong Delta, the closest place to visit is Ben Tre Province . Ben Tre ( Bến Tre ) has the tastiest young coconuts to try. Find dừa xiêm (fresh young coconut) from a local vendor and enjoy this delicious drink .

Many of the Ben Tre tours will take you to a coconut candy factory so you can see how this confectionary is made, a honey farm, and a rice cracker factory. You get the chance to ride a sampan along the river and see what a traffic jam is like with boats. Your tour may also include a chance to fish for snakeheads in a river and have it for lunch. 

Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the evening. 

One of the coolest experierences is to ride a sampan along the Mekong Delta.

Stop #3: Mui Ne (2 Days)

It’s time to head to the beaches and escape to a coastal town. We’re off to Mui Ne ( Mũi Né ), a small town part of Phan Thiet City. 

To get to Mui Ne from Ho Chi Minh City, take a sleeper bus. It’ll take 5-6 hours depending on traffic. 

There are lots of fun things to do in Mui Ne . Go on a Jeep tour to explore the red and white sand dunes, walk through a Fairy Stream, and see the fishing village either at sunrise or sunset. You can also learn how to kitesurf as the winds are strong. Don’t forget to try the delicious seafood here! 

If you want to go on a hike, consider hiking Ta Cu Mountain to see a reclining white Buddha. Taking the cable car is also another option. 

Check out places to stay in Mui Ne here. 

Visiting the white dunes at sunrise or sunset is a highlight of Mui Ne.

Stop #4: Return to Ho Chi Minh City (1 Day)

Ask your accommodation to arrange a bus ride back to Ho Chi Minh City. Or, stop by one of the bus companies along the main street to make a booking. 

Itinerary #8: Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc

Want to go on an island? Head to Phu Quoc, south of Cambodia, and is the closest island from Ho Chi Minh. 

Refer to Itinerary #7 to get ideas on how to spend 3 days in Ho Chi Minh City. 

Stop #2: Phu Quoc (3 Days)

The next destination is Phu Quoc Island ( Phú Quốc ). Many locals and visitors love visiting Phu Quoc for a weekend trip to hang out at the beaches and relax. 

To get to Phu Quoc Island, take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City. The flight takes only 1 hour. 

Most people stay at a 5-star resort and hang out at the pool and private beaches. You’re here for a relaxing vacation! Don’t worry, there are plenty of guesthouses available, but you’ll need a motorbike to travel around the island . 

There are tons of things to do in Phu Quo c. Hang out at Sao Beach and visit the Starfish beach during your visit here. You can also visit several factories and see how fish sauce and sim wine are made. You can also ride the longest cable car ride according to Guinness World Record and visit Hom Tom Island (or Pineapple Island)

If you only have 2 days in Phu Quoc , check out this itinerary on what to do here. 

Click here to see accommodations on Phu Quoc. 

When visiting Phu Quoc Island, take a day trip to go snorkeling.

You can either take a flight back from Phu Quoc or Ho Chi Minh City to your next destination. Some international flights land in Phu Quoc so it’ll reduce extra traveling costs and time. 

Itinerary #9: Ho Chi Minh City – Dalat

If you need fresh air and cooler temperatures, head to Dalat. It’s located in the Central Highlands and has many outdoor adventures to do. 

Check out Itinerary #7 for ideas on what to do in HCMC. 

Stop #2: Dalat (3 Days)

Dalat ( Đà Lạt ) is one of the prettiest spots to visit in Vietnam. Since the city is located in mountainous areas and is known for the cooler weather, Dalat has lots of trees and plants, waterfalls, and forest areas to enjoy . It’s no wonder why this city is called the “City of Eternal Spring.”

You will need a few days in Dalat to explore the incredible waterfalls . Check out Elephant Waterfall, Pongour Waterfall, Dantala Waterfall, and Prenn Waterfall. For a non-touristy waterfall, consider hiking to Tam Tham Waterfall .

The main Downtown area has adorable cafes with French architecture. In the evenings, check out the Night Market to buy snacks, hot soy milk, and produce. Check out these delicious places to eat in Dalat!

Another funky place to visit is the Crazy House with unique and whimsical architecture. You can even stay overnight in one of the themed rooms . 

There are also fun hiking routes around Dalat. Langbiang is an easier route. Or, you can join a hiking tour to go to Bidoup Nui Ba National Park . 

Read more on how to spend 3 days in Dalat here . 

If you have the chance, consider taking a side trip to Bao Loc for more waterfalls and to see tea plantations. 

Check out places to stay in Dalat here. 

Pongour Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls to see in Dalat.

Stop #3: Departure to Ho Chi Minh City (1 Day)

Schedule a bus ride to go back to Ho Chi Minh City. 

Itinerary #10: Ho Chi Minh City – Nha Trang – Dalat

Looking for a combination of beach and nature experiences? Then this 7 day Vietnam itinerary is for you!

Stop #1: Ho Chi Minh City (Day 1)

One day in Ho Chi Minh City will go by quickly so you can refer to Itinerary #7 and choose the best attractions that you want to visit. 

Stop #2: Nha Trang (3 Days)

Head to Nha Trang for some beach and relaxation. Nha Trang is a popular beach destination in the South Central part of Vietnam. 

To get to Nha Trang from Ho Chi Minh City, either take a domestic flight or an overnight train . If taking a flight, you’ll fly to Cam Rang Airport (airport code: CXR). The flight is 1 hour and 10 minutes. Then, you will need to take a bus or taxi to Nha Trang. If taking an overnight train, it’ll take around 9 hours. 

It’s easy to find a spot along Nha Trang Beach and soak in some sunshine. You may consider renting a lawn chair from one of the beach hawkers so it’ll be more comfortable. 

Soaking in mineral springs and mud baths is a must-do in Nha Trang . There are three locations – 100 Eggs Theme Park, Thap Ba Hot Springs, and I-Resort – yet other places around Nha Trang offer these. Check out our I-Resort review here. 

Other attractions to visit include visiting VinWonders Nha Trang theme park , checking out Po Nagar Cham Towers, going snorkeling, or visiting Hon Tam Island as a day trip . 

Check out our 3 days Nha Trang itinerary here . 

Click here to see accommodation options in Nha Trang. 

Check out the Nha Trang beach when you’re in Nha Trang for a few days.

Stop #3: Dalat (2 Days)

Dalat is doable to do in 2 days. It can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want it to be. Check out Itinerary #9 for ideas on what to do. 

From Nha Trang to Dalat, take a bus. It’ll take 3-4 hours depending on traffic. 

Stop #4: Go back to Ho Chi Minh City (1 Day)

From Dalat, you’ll take another sleeper bus to arrive in Ho Chi Minh City.

From North to South Vietnam Itinerary in 7 Days

Itinerary: #11: hanoi – danang – ho chi minh city.

For this route, we’re traveling across the country and utilizing domestic flights for transportation. This itinerary has the highlights of visiting the three biggest cities in Vietnam. 

You’ll need to fly directly into Hanoi to start this itinerary. Afterward, choose a few attractions to visit from Itinerary #1. 

Stop #2: Danang (3 Days)

As mentioned in the Central Vietnam section, Danang is a beach city with tons of local attractions to visit. 

Choose a few activities to check out above during your two days in Danang. Refer to Itinerary #5. If you prefer to just hang out at the resort, then that’s perfectly fine too! You could also do a day trip to Hoi An on one of the days. 

To get to Danang from Hanoi, take a domestic flight. It’ll take 1 hour and 20 minutes. 

Stop #3: Ho Chi Minh City (1 Day)

The last stop is Ho Chi Minh City. Since it’s your last day here, you can visit a few of the local attractions or get a massage. Check out ideas on what to do in Itinerary #7.

From Danang to Ho Chi Minh City, take a domestic flight. The direct flight is 1.5 hours. 

Stop #4: Departure (1 Day)

It’s time to return home. Take a taxi or ride-hailing car to the airport. 

Final Thoughts

One week in Vietnam will fly by quickly! With prior planning, you can easily squeeze in a jam-packed itinerary. 

Which of these itineraries do you want to experience on your next trip to Vietnam? Let us know in the comments below.

Like this post? Save it to your Pinterest Asia Travel board.

Featured photo and pin #1 photo credit: AlexGukBO via Depositphotos.com

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

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• Vietnam Nightlife Guide 2024: 15 Places For Experiencing The Best Of Nightclubs, Shopping & More

06 Jun 2023

The extraordinary experiences that the Vietnam nightlife offers is one of the major reasons why this Asian country needs to be on every traveler’s bucket list. Be it casino hopping or pub crawling, dining on a cruise or shopping till late at night, Vietnam has got it all. What makes it more special is the fact that like most places, one doesn’t have to worry about the party budget here since everything is available at pocket-friendly prices, majorly because the country brews some of the cheapest draft beer in the world.

So, irrespective of whether you’re a party animal or not, sit down and take a note of these 15 places that you must visit in the top cities while you’re holidaying in Vietnam.

Hanoi – Lively Bars And Glitzy Nightclubs

One of the best cities  for experiencing nightlife in Vietnam , Hanoi has got it all. And while there are plenty of places to visit in Vietnam , ticking off the following three is a must, especially if you’re a culture vulture.

• Sunset Bar: For Lakeside View!
• Hero Club Hanoi: For A Musical Night!
• Hanoi Opera House: For Neoclassical Architecture!

1. Sunset Bar: For Lakeside View!

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Offering an experience like none other in Hanoi, the Sunset Bar located in the InterContinental Hotel is one of the ultimate party places in Vietnam . The stunning lakeside ambience, plush daybeds, a chilled-out wooden deck, and breathtaking views of the West Lake are perfect for anyone who wishes to witness the soothing side of the Vietnam nightlife .

Timings: 4:30 PM to 12:00 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: 5 Từ Hoa Công Chúa, Quảng An, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam Website | Reviews

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2. Hero Club Hanoi: For A Musical Night!

Built like an industrial-style nightlife venue, this is one of the top nightclubs in Hanoi, Vietnam . From international DJs playing every type of music to themed nights, the party scene here is absolutely loud and lit. Hanoi is undoubtedly the ideal place to be for any music and party lover.

Timings: 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: Trúc Bạch Ba Đình Vietnam, 42 Yên Phụ, Trúc Bạch, Hà Nội, Vietnam Reviews

Must Read: Top 10 Vietnam Beach Resorts For A “Living In The Moment” Holiday

3. Hanoi Opera House: For Neoclassical Architecture!

When you’re in Vietnam, visiting the Hanoi Opera House is absolutely a must in the city. The pillars, shuttered windows, balconies, glass room, and the neoclassical architecture adds up to the beauty of the opera house, making it a worthwhile attraction in the city for every type of traveler.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: 1 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem Website | Reviews

Other Must-Visit Places In Hanoi: Bia Hoi Junction, Top Of Hanoi, Legend Beer, Dragon Fly Bar Lounge, Binh Minh’s Jazz Club, and Apocalypse Now

Suggested Read: Binh Ba Island: A Guide To Traverse Through This Majestic Vietnam Island

Ho Chi Minh City – Exquisite Parties And Happening Crowd

When in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh nightlife experience is one thing you must keep on the top of your list. Not just the best bars, but this city also has surprises for Shopaholics and romantics.

• Ben Thanh Night Market: For All Shopaholics!
• Indochina Junk Dinner Cruise: For Romantic Dinner!
• Chill Sky Bar: For All Dancers!

4. Ben Thanh Night Market: For All Shopaholics!

Opened from early morning until late at night, this market has got everything from a food to a fashion stall. This night market is set alongside the market on Phan Boi Chau Street and shopping here is considered as one of the best things  to experience the best of nightlife in Vietnam . If you’re a Shopaholic at heart, know that visiting and bargaining here is a must.

Timings: 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5/5 Location: Ben Thanh Market, Lê Lợi, Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam Website | Reviews

Suggested Read: One Pillar Pagoda: A Mini Guide To Experience Absolute Calmness In Hanoi

5. Indochina Junk Dinner Cruise: For Romantic Dinner!

Spending an evening in the dinner cruise is amongst the best things to do for experiencing the Vietnam nightlife . This Indochina Cruise offers delicious delicacies along the Saigon River and sets the mood right with some soft music in the background. It is an ideal experience for both couples and families.

Timings: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Location: Phường 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Suggested Read: 20 Best Beaches In Vietnam For Some Sun, Sand & Surf!

6. Chill Sky Bar: For All Dancers!

Being utterly famous for rooftops, Chill Skybar in Ho Chi Minh is one of the best gifts to Vietnam nightlife . It is located in District 1 on the 25th floor of AB Tower and attracts a happening crowd with its neon lighting, sizzling dance floor, and top-notch music. This spot is the perfect place for people who are thinking about where to party in Vietnam.

Timings: 5:30 PM to 2:00 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: AB Tower, 76A Lê Lai, Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam Website | Reviews

Other Must-Visit Places In Ho Chi Minh: Saigon Opera House, Live Music Bars, Caravelle Hotel, and Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers

Nha Trang – Hippy Bars And Lavish Restaurants

For bar hoppers and pub crawlers, Nha Trang is the best place to be at and witnessing Vietnam nightlife . It’s right where the party starts and a new one begins before the previous one even ends.

• Crazy Kim Bar Restaurant: For Mexican Food!
• Louisiane Brewhouse Nha Trang: For Chilled Beer!
• Sailing Club Nha Trang: For Refreshing Drinks!

7. Crazy Kim Bar Restaurant: For Mexican Food!

Of all the places in Nha Trang, this is the ultimate place for every type of party lover. For foodies, it has got amazing Mexican and Vietnamese, for divers it has underwater chatting area, and for those who are tired after dancing, it has got hammocks dotted around the bar area!

Timings: 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: 19 Biet Thu Street, Loc Tho Ward, Lộc Thọ, Thành phố Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa, Vietnam Reviews

Suggested Read: The Cambodia Nightlife Guide: Pubs, Diners, Shops, & More

8. Louisiane Brewhouse Nha Trang: For Chilled Beer!

Located on the beachfront of Tran Phu, this is the only bar in the city that produces its own beers using speciality malts from Australia and New Zealand, and offers an exceptional experience of the Vietnam nightlife. Apart from offering exemplary brews, it also has an authentic range of cuisines that will keep your taste buds happy throughout the night.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 12:30 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: Trần Phú, Lộc Thọ, Thành phố Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa, Vietnam Website | Reviews

9. Sailing Club Nha Trang: For Refreshing Drinks!

Sailing Club has been Nha Trang’s most popular spot for experiencing  the best nightlife of Vietnam . It acts as a classy restaurant throughout the day and becomes a lively nightclub by the night, which makes it all the more attractive for all the types of travelers.

Timings: 7:30 AM to 2:30 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: 72-74 Trần Phú, Vĩnh Nguyên, Tp. Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa Vietnam Website | Reviews

Other Must-Visit Places In Nha Trang: Skylight Skydeck & Rooftop Beach Club, Booze Cruise Bar & Grill, Jolly Leprechaun, and Nha Trang Water Puppet Theatre

Suggested Read: How To Pull Off A Solo Trip To Vietnam And Cambodia At An Incredibly Low Budget

Hoi An – Trendy Cafes And Bars

Hoi An is a great city to visit, especially for those who love to party at the best dine outs. If you are looking for best party cities in Vietnam then this is the place to be at! While the list of popular bistros here is endless, here are a few you must visit! 

• Dive Bar Hoi An: For Live Music!
• Hoi An Sports Bar: For Rugby Fans!
• Q-Bar: For Sophiscated Parties!

10. Dive Bar Hoi An: For Live Music!

With a fun-loving crowd of diving enthusiasts, expats, and travelers from all over the world, this place is a popular nightlife spot for drinks and live music in Hoi An. Lounge sofas, pool tables, garden courtyard, and an internet café, you will find it all right here.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Location: 88 Nguyễn Thái Học, Phường Minh An, Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam Website | Reviews

11. Hoi An Sports Bar: For Rugby Fans!

If you are a sports fan, this bar is meant just for you. From catching up the live events of NRL, Super Rugby, AFL, Australian Open Tennis, and NBA to getting high on the best drinks and music in the town, there’s everything here to get your party started.

Timings: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Location: 61A Phan Châu Trinh, Minh An, Tp. Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam Website | Reviews

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do On An Adventure Trip To Vietnam With Friends

12. Q-Bar: For Sophiscated Parties!

An opulent lounge that serves an extensive list of cocktails, beers, and Japanese cuisines, Q Bar is the best place to visit in Hoi An. Its oriental décor with lit paper lanterns, wooden communal tables, cozy lounge seats, and more make the perfect ambience for vintage admirers and sophisticated party people.

Timings: 11:30 AM to 12:00 AM TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Location: 94 Nguyễn Thái Học, Minh An, Hoi An City, Quảng Nam, Vietnam Reviews

Other Must-Visit Places In Hoi An: Cafe 96, Tam Tam, King Dragon Restaurant and Bar, Mango Rooms, White Marble Wine Bar, and Zero Sea Mile Beach Club

Ha Long Bay – Best Waterfront Venues And Romantic Dining!

While Ha Long Bay is not the most popular place to visit for experiencing the Vietnam nightlife , it certainly is one of the ultimate spots to witness the country in a different light.

• Flightless Bird Cafe: For The View Of The Harbour!
• Noble House: For Board Games!
• Ha Long View Club: For Loud Music!

13. Flightless Bird Cafe: For The View Of The Harbour! 

One of the most popular places among travelers, this cafe defines the party style in Ha Long Bay. The balcony on the second floor offers a gorgeous view of the harbour and the indoors make for an ideal ambience to sit, read, and exchange books.

Timings: 6:30 PM onwards TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Location: 1-4 Street | 189, Cat Ba, Vietnam Reviews

Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam In Summer

14. Noble House: For Board Games!

Being a hotel with an outstanding restaurant on the first floor, and a great bar on the second floor that has a pool table and board games, Noble House is the most ultimate place in Ha Long for both sophisticated diners and sporty party animals. One just cannot miss visiting this place!

TripAdvisor Rating: 3/5 Location: Cat Ba Island, Ha Long Bay, TT. Cát Bà, Cát Hải, Hải Phòng, Vietnam Reviews

15. Ha Long View Club: For Loud Music!

The Ha Long View Club is the perfect place for those who love loud music, admire pretty dancers, and wish to party even after midnight. While it’s not exactly amongst the known gogo bars in Vietnam , it is certainly one of the most popular in the bay.

Timings: 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM Location: Trần Thái Tông, Yết Kiêu, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

Other Must-Visit Places In Ha Long Bay: Ba Hang Bar, Karaoke Diamond Club, Hotel Novotel’s Lobby Lounge Bar, and La Plaza Bar And Lounge

Suggested Read: 7 Most Romantic Hotels In Vietnam: The Best Of Beach Resorts And Hotels For Couples

Vietnam Nightlife Tips

• Before planning your night out for experiencing the nightlife of Vietnam , do check the timings of the places you wish to visit.
• Don’t forget to follow the dress code of the club or bar (if specifically mentioned).
• While shopping at the night market, make sure you do not take the first price quoted by the vendor as the final price. Bargain a little.
• Prefer staying in a hotel that is located near to the popular bar streets. This will help you witness the night scene like a local.
• If possible, do try and learn a few basic words spoken in Vietnam.
• Take care of your valuables while you’re exploring around.
• Don’t forget to try the local beers and street food.

Further Read: A Romantic Trip Relishing The Scenic Beauty Of Vietnam

If you never thought of Vietnam as a holiday destination for yourself, we hope you’re planning your trip by now. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to plan your Vietnam trip   for a hassle-free and an extraordinary Vietnam nightlife experience!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Nightlife

Which city has the best nightlife in Vietnam?

Ho Chi Minh City is the best city for experiencing the electrifying nightlife of Vietnam.

What can you do in Vietnam at night?

There are a plethora of clubs, bars, night markets, and chic restaurants in Vietnam. You can try the local delicacies or dance the night away at these places.

Which is better Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh?

If you are thinking about experiencing the Vietnam nightlife then you must visit Ho Chi Minh as this city has a lot of options for all party lovers.

How safe is Vietnam?

Yes, Vietnam is a safe spot for a vacation. You can roam around in the country in the day time as well as night.

Which are the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh?

Some of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh city are Saigon Opera House, Caravelle Hotel, and Sheraton Saigon Hotel.

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10 Best Tourist Attractions In Vietnam You Have To See

The choice of Vietnam tourist attractions is staggering; this mesmerizing country blessed with jaw-dropping natural beauty, an unfair tally of World Heritage Sites, historical legacies extending from 10th-century pagodas to wartime tunnels, vibrant cities revealing multi-national architectural wonders, and rich cultural diversity. One trip may not be enough, but for first-timers, be it, honeymooners or adventure seekers, here’s our what to see on your trip to Vietnam .

The beauty of Hoi An Old Town is well renowned

1. Hoi An’s Ancient Town

Hoi An’s utterly charming Ancient Town is one of Vietnam’s top attractions, but despite the crowds, still hasn’t lost its beguiling charm. Centrally located in Hoi An town, alongside picturesque Thu Bon River, this compact enclave was once a thriving Silk Road trading port, from the 16th to 19th centuries. Today, this beautifully preserved Ancient Town is one of Southeast Asia’s oldest towns and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, its atmospheric narrow streets lined with centuries-old cultural treasures, historic sites, and quaint buildings, a hybrid of the port’s multi-national architectural legacies.

Admire the Chinese shophouses and gaudy assembly halls, iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and faded French colonial-era mansions. This old quarter is also home to a strong local community, with markets and artisan workshops and riverside open-air cafés and restaurants, perfect for sampling local culinary delights. The Ancient Town comes into its own after dark, especially during the monthly, full moon lantern festival, when, traffic-free streets are illuminated solely with hundreds of multi-colored silk lanterns and vibrant with traditional festivities.

The old kingdom in ruins

2. My Son Cham Towers

While in Hoi An, be sure to visit My Son Cham towers , located southwest. Not only is this one of Vietnam’s most striking examples of its ancient Champa Kingdom and a World Heritage Site, but also one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites and a foremost Hindu temple complex. Set in a narrow wooded valley, surrounded by forested mountains, this evocative Cham temple sanctuary was once an important spiritual and political center and royal burial ground of the former Champa civilization, built between the 4th to the 14th centuries.

My Son lay neglected for centuries, rediscovered by French archaeologists in 1898. Ravaged by time, ironically the greatest damage occurred during the Vietnam War, however, the majority of the central complex managed to survive the bombs and some parts are being restored. Devoted to Hindu Gods, the sanctuary is comprised of more than 70 red brick and sandstone temples arranged in clusters, incorporating striking decorative carvings, stele, sculptures, and inscriptions.

Today, in various states of ruin, repair, and vegetation overgrowth, My Son nevertheless is still impressive, with around 20 temple structures still standing. There’s also an interesting on-site museum; visit early morning to escape the tour groups and heat.

Palace in the noisy city center

3. HCMC’s Independence Palace & War Remnants Museum

Wartime legacies are prominent attractions in Ho Chi Minh City and these two museums are the most popular, equally fascinating, and a must-do experience. The imposing Independence Palace (or Reunification Palace) is of great symbolic importance in the nation’s history. Formerly, the South Vietnam government’s HQ and official presidential residence, this was where North Vietnamese Army tanks crashed through the main gates on April 30, 1975: the defining ‘Fall of Saigon’ moment and the start of Reunification.

Now a ‘National Cultural and Historical Relic,’ museum and VIP function space, this landmark monolith building, ensconced in pretty grounds, stands frozen in time from that fateful day. Take a guided tour through five floors and rooms preserved in the 1960s and 1970s time-warp: highlights include the bomb-proof basement, with secret tunnels and war command room, kitschy cinema and casino, and glittering reception halls.

Although somber and gut-wrenching, the War Remnants Museum is the city’s most-visited museum, where a series of exhibition rooms starkly chronicles the horrors and futility of war – (both the Vietnam and Indochina wars). Shocking exhibits contain graphic photojournalism, notorious ‘tiger cages’ and legacies of chemical defoliants, while the outer courtyard is littered with wartime fighter planes, tanks, and bomb varieties.

An entrance to the tunnel

4. Cu Chi Tunnels

Located north of Greater Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels provide a more interactive historical experience for all ages (although claustrophobics should perhaps miss this one).

Stretching for 100-plus miles towards former Saigon, this immense network of connecting underground tunnels was the secret HQ for the Viet Cong’s military operations during the Vietnam and Indochina wars. Of immense strategic value, the Cu Chi Tunnels played a major role in the Northern Vietnamese victory, regarded as one of their proudest wartime achievements.

These historic tunnels have now been preserved and transformed into a war memorial park and hugely popular attraction. Visitors can enter two short sections of the original tunnel network, at either Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc villages, which have been restored, slightly widened and cemented. Led by guides, crawl along the deep tunnels and get a rough idea of what conditions were like and see former subterranean facilities, like the conference rooms.

Above-ground attractions include a shooting range, display of mantraps and burnt-out tanks and a restaurant serving simple meals that the soldiers would have eaten. Some half-day tours offer speedboat transport along the river, for part of the journey here.

Vendors at work

5. Mekong Delta’s floating markets

The southern Mekong Delta is Vietnam’s most productive agricultural area, with an intensively cultivated bountiful landscape brimming with rice paddies, banana, sugarcane and coconut plantations, tropical fruit orchards and more. Visiting the Mekong Delta is one of the absolute musts when in Vietnam.

This lush, flat ‘Delta is also dominated by – and highly dependent on – the Mekong River, which branches out into a network of waterways and tributaries that for many is the main way of getting around. This may explain why this region’s traditional means of trading are floating markets, a way of life and trade for well over a century.

Despite modern-day developments, the ‘Delta’s floating markets are in decline, but many still operate in strategic localities; for visitors, this is an iconic Vietnamese sight and wonderful opportunity to engage with locals and experience a traditional southern culture – besides a fantastic photographic opportunity. Take an early morning guided tour on a small vessel, weaving in amongst dozens of colorful barges piled high with seasonal produce and household items and ordering Vietnamese breakfast and coffee from floating kitchens! The largest, most renowned floating markets are Phong Dien and Phung Hiep, but especially, Cai Be and Cai Rang, popular for its vibrant atmosphere. All can easily be visited in a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, but afterward, continue boating deep into the ‘’Delta countryside, disembarking at fruit orchards and stilt-house communities.

A forbidden city of Nguyen Dynasty

6. Complex of Hué Monuments

Located in the Central Provinces, Hue was Vietnam’s imperial capital from 1802 to 1945, the home of a dynasty of Nguyen Emperors and the nation’s political, cultural and religious heart. All those imperial legacies, a collection of relatively well-preserved ancient monuments, royal court traditions and relics of great historical and cultural importance, now come listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, or ‘Complex of Hue Monuments.’ Thus, this amiable, languid city, majestic beside the scenic Perfume River, offers visitors many attractions to see, many easily accessed by bicycle or on leisurely ‘Dragon Boat‘ cruises.

Hue’s crown jewel is the magnificent 19th century Imperial Citadel, a sprawling walled complex containing the Imperial Enclosure, Forbidden Purple City, palaces, temples, gates, and much more. Although much was destroyed during the Vietnam War, many parts are under restoration and worth exploring, including the Flag Tower, Ngo Mon Gate and Thai Hoa Palace. Other gems cover several Mandarin Garden Houses and the incredible Emperor’s royal mausoleums lying hidden amid the river valley and low-lying hills. Among Hue’s numerous exquisite pagodas, don’t miss the most historic, the seven-tiered, 17th century Thien Mu Pagoda. Even Hue’s delicious imperial cuisine is descended from the royal courts!

Fish farms in Halong Bay

7. Halong & Lan Ha Bay

This vast bay area is not just one of Asia’s most spectacular natural wonders, protected as a World Heritage Site, but one big tourist attraction in itself and one of Vietnam’s most iconic sights. Northern Vietnam’s stuff of legends, this ‘Bay of Descending Dragons’ presents an ethereal seascape of 2,000-plus limestone islands and rock formations magically jutting out of the Gulf of Tonkin’s emerald-hued waters. Halong Bay’s southern extension, the extraordinarily beautiful Lan Ha Bay, reveals equally stunning scenery, but as a relatively new tourism destination with fewer tourist vessels passing through, offers a more remote, tranquil experience.

Both Halong and Lan Ha bays are prime cruising territory , especially the overnight luxury varieties, viewing an ever-changing backdrop of jungle-clad karsts from the sundeck and a fantastical playground for nature and adventure activities. Explore mythical caves and floating fish farms, kayak to hidden lagoons, and snorkel off coral beaches, while the bay’s largest island, Cat Ba, offers trekking, mountain biking, and rock climbing opportunities for amongst primeval rainforests. For the ultimate birds-eye view, take a stupendous seaplane scenic flight over the entire bay.

Spectacular site in Ninh Binh Province

8. Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex

In northern Ninh Binh Province, Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex is uniquely a World Heritage Site for both its nature and culture, spellbinding visitors with its spectacular landscapes of timeless waterways and jungle-covered limestone karsts and towering cliffs dramatically rising from jade-green valleys, along with ancient sites of great national significance.

The big drawcard is taking a paddleboat through two main tourist attractions, in this watery wonderland, dubbed a ‘land-locked Halong Bay and ‘outdoor geological museum.’ At Tam Coc, enjoy a slow, languorous sampan ride along the tranquil Ngo Dong River, which merges with lush rice paddies surrounded by surreal limestone formations and gliding underneath three low-hanging grottoes. At Trang An, an equally impressive boat ride transports you along emerald-green waterways brimming with rich biodiversity overshadowed by stunning islets and a series of karst caves and caverns which the boat passes through. Off the boats, be sure to visit magnificent Bái Đính Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist pagoda complex and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where two dynastic temples stand at the site of 10th and 11th-century citadel.

Flower vendors are always present in the Old Quarter

9. Hanoi’s Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake

Nestled beside the Red River, Vietnam’s enchanting ancient capital, Hanoi, is jam-packed with wonderful things to see. Key attractions and centuries-old legacies are clustered in clearly defined historic districts, with the most popular being the evocative Old Quarter, a compact, a square kilometer of ancient merchant quarters, dating back more than 500 years – something not to miss on your vacation in Vietnam.

Since the 15th century, each street specialized in specific craft merchandise of which it was named after; even today, some of these charming streets still specialize in that original product or the modern equivalent, from tombstones to silk.

Take a stroll or cyclo ride through this endearingly chaotic quarter, a fascinating glance at Hanoi’s daily life played out on the streets and soak up key sights that include merchant ‘tube houses’ and 11th century White Horse Temple. Be sure to stop-off at one of the gorgeous artsy cafés and street food eateries.

Just south is Hoan Kiem Lake, an unexpected oasis of tranquility and beauty at the heart – literally – of Hanoi, awarded ‘Special National Relic’ status. Translating as ‘Lake of the Restored Sword,’ legend-strewn Hoan Kiem is hugely popular with locals and tourists at any time. However, come at sunrise, when Hanoians flock here to exercise on the lake’s shaded shores and on weekend evenings when the surrounding streets morph as a vibrant pedestrianized zone with open-air entertainment.

Hanoi is the best place to watch the performance

10. Vietnamese Water Puppets

You don’t have to be a child to enjoy Vietnam’s enchanting water puppetry; deep insight into traditional folklore and a surprisingly quirky, cultural experience. Traditional water puppetry originated in the North’s Red River Delta, where for centuries, farmers practiced this recreational art form in flooded paddies. Handed down the generations, this unique puppetry nearly died out but has seen a huge revival, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and performed in theatres in major cities and award-winning international tours.

Hidden behind a bamboo screen, puppeteers manipulate lacquered wooden puppets using rods while wading in waist-deep water, which act out traditional stories based on ancient folk tales and rural village life on an ever-changing, watery stage, The hour-long shows of short vignettes are accompanied by live traditional music and while all in Vietnamese, the comical, delightful puppetry and music keeps the audience enthralled. In Hanoi, book your tickets at the world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and in Ho Chi Minh City, at The Golden Dragon Water Puppetry Theater or Museum of Vietnamese History.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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The Mekong Delta forms the far southern region of Vietnam and is the rice bowl of the country. Dominated by the Mekong River and its many tributaries, the surrounding lands are comprised […]

10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

With its stunningly beautiful and diverse landscapes and evocative urban centers brimming with cultural heritage in-between, there are so many places to visit in Vietnam, it’s hard to decide. Hopefully our top […]

Mekong River With Kids: Top 5 Things To Do With The Family

The contrasting landscapes and cultural complexities of the lush Mekong River Delta in Vietnam layers one iconic scene upon another: rice fields; orchards laden with exotic fruits; farmers and fishermen in classic […]

18 Best Places To Visit In Halong Bay

Designated a World Heritage Site in 1994, Halong Bay’s scatter of islands, dotted with water-eroded caves and grottoes, is a vision of ethereal beauty. Translated as “The Bay of Descending Dragons”, it […]

14 Must See Mekong Delta Tourist Attractions

Mekong Delta has a water system that is over 33,500 miles long. The residents have built their lives around it, from the famous floating markets to the vast agricultural industries; a variety […]

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