Vietnam is a country that offers something for everyone, from natural wonders to cultural heritage, from historical sites to culinary delights. Whether you want to cruise the scenic Halong Bay, explore the spectacular caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, learn about the war history in Ho Chi Minh City, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island, you will find plenty of things to do in Vietnam that will make your trip unforgettable. In this article, we will introduce you to the 38 best things to do in Vietnam, based on our own experience and recommendations from other travelers and experts. We will also provide you with some useful tips and links to help you plan your Vietnam adventure. Ready to discover the best of Vietnam? Let's get started

Biking in Ninh Binh

Biking in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is one of the best destinations for cycling in Vietnam, with stunning scenery of rice fields, limestone mountains, rivers and villages. You can bike to some of the famous attractions such as Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, Thung Nham Bird Garden and Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.

Treking in Sapa

Treking in Sapa
Sapa is a mountainous town in the northwest of Vietnam, famous for its terraced rice fields, ethnic minority villages and Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. You can trek to various destinations such as Cat Cat Village, Ta Van Village, Lao Chai Village, Muong Hoa Valley and Fansipan Summit. You can also experience the local culture and cuisine by staying in a homestay or visiting a market. You can book a trekking tour from Hanoi or Sapa, or hire a local guide on the spot.

Kayak in Halong Bay

Kayak in Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the northeast of Vietnam, renowned for its thousands of limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald water. You can kayak to explore the hidden caves, lagoons and beaches of the bay, as well as see the wildlife and fishing villages. You can join a kayak tour from Hanoi or Halong City, or rent a kayak from your cruise or a local operator.

Trekking in Puluong

Trekking in Puluong
Pu Luong is a nature reserve in the central of Vietnam, where you can enjoy the pristine nature of mountains, forests, waterfalls and rice terraces. You can trek to various places such as Kho Muong Village, Hieu Waterfall, Uoi Village and Pho Doan Market. You can also interact with the local people who belong to the Thai ethnic group and learn about their culture and lifestyle. You can book a trekking tour from Hanoi or Pu Luong, or hire a local guide on the spot.

Cooking class in Hanoi & Hoian

cooking class in Hanoi & Hoian
Hanoi and Hoian are two of the most popular destinations for food lovers in Vietnam, where you can learn how to make some of the most delicious dishes of Vietnamese cuisine. You can join a cooking class that includes a market tour, where you can buy fresh ingredients and learn about the local food culture. You can also learn how to cook some specialties such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), banh xeo (crispy pancake) and cao lau (noodles with pork and herbs). You can book a cooking class from your hotel or a local agency, or online.

Eco tour in Hoian

Eco tour in Hoian
Hoian is a charming town in the central of Vietnam, with a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful natural setting. You can join an eco tour that takes you to the rural areas of Hoian, where you can experience the traditional life of the farmers and fishermen. You can also enjoy activities such as basket boat riding, crab fishing, clam digging, coconut forest exploring and cooking class. You can book an eco tour from your hotel or a local agency, or online.

Biking in Hoian

Biking in Hoian
Hoian is also a great place for cycling, as it has many scenic routes that pass through the countryside, the old town and the beach. You can bike to some of the attractions such as Tra Que Vegetable Village, Kim Bong Carpentry Village, Thanh Ha Pottery Village and An Bang Beach. You can rent a bike from your hotel or a local bike shop, or join a guided bike tour from Hoian or Danang.

Motorbike from Hue to Hoian

Motorbike from Hue to Hoian
Hue and Hoian are two of the most historic and cultural cities in Vietnam, and traveling between them by motorbike is an adventurous and rewarding way to see the country. You can ride along the coast, through the mountains and over the famous Hai Van Pass, which offers stunning views of the sea and the sky. You can also stop at some of the places along the way such as Lang Co Beach, Elephant Springs, Marble Mountains and My Khe Beach. You can book a motorbike tour from Hue or Hoian, or rent a motorbike and drive by yourself.

Vespa tour in Hanoi & Saigon

Vespa tour in Hanoi & Saigon
Hanoi and Saigon are two of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in Vietnam, and exploring them by Vespa is a fun and stylish way to experience their culture and nightlife. You can hop on a vintage Vespa and follow your guide to some of the hidden gems and local spots of the cities, such as street food stalls, coffee shops, markets, temples, museums and bars. You can also enjoy the sights and sounds of the busy streets and alleys, as well as interact with the friendly people. You can book a Vespa tour from your hotel or a local agency, or online.

Immerse yourself in the Golden rice in Mu Cang Chai

Immerse yourself in the Golden rice in Mu Cang Chai
Mu Cang Chai is a district in the northwest of Vietnam, famous for its terraced rice fields that create a spectacular landscape of golden waves in the harvest season (September to October). You can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and the culture of the ethnic minorities who live there. You can trek to some of the villages such as La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha and De Xu Phinh, where you can see how the locals cultivate their rice and enjoy their hospitality. You can also visit some of the attractions such as Khau Pha Pass, Mo Waterfall and Mam Xoi Hill. You can book a trekking tour from Hanoi or Mu Cang Chai, or hire a local guide on the spot.

Diving in Hoian NhaTrang Phu Quoc

Diving in Hoian NhaTrang Phu Quoc
Vietnam has some of the best diving sites in Southeast Asia, with diverse marine life and coral reefs. Hoian, NhaTrang and Phu Quoc are three of the most popular destinations for diving in Vietnam, each with its own charm and attractions. Hoian has calm waters and colorful fish, NhaTrang has clear waters and rich corals, Phu Quoc has warm waters and exotic species. You can dive to various depths and levels, depending on your experience and preference.

Zipline in Hue

12 zipline in hue 703ea
Hue is a historic city in the central of Vietnam, famous for its imperial monuments and cultural heritage. You can also enjoy an adventurous activity of ziplining in Hue, which is the longest and free zipline in Asia. You can ride on a cable that spans 560 meters and 45.5 meters high, from Ma Yen Mountain to the mineral springs lake. You can admire the green forests and the romantic lake from the air, and feel the thrill of flying like a bird.

Watching culture shows

13 watching culture shows dacd4
Vietnam has a rich and diverse culture, which is reflected in its various forms of art and entertainment. You can watch some of the culture shows that showcase the beauty and uniqueness of Vietnamese culture, such as water puppetry, ao dai fashion show, traditional music and dance, circus and acrobatics, and more. You can find some of the culture shows in theaters, museums, cultural centers, hotels and restaurants in major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Hoian and Nha Trang.

Visit Bat Trang ceramic village

Visit Bat Trang ceramic village
Bat Trang is a traditional ceramic village in the outskirts of Hanoi, where you can see how the local artisans make pottery and porcelain products by hand. You can also try your hand at making your own ceramic item, such as a vase, a bowl or a plate. You can also buy some of the beautiful and unique ceramic products as souvenirs or gifts. You can visit Bat Trang ceramic village by bus, taxi, motorbike or bicycle from Hanoi.

Taste street food in Hanoi

Taste street food in Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital and the culinary hub of Vietnam, where you can find some of the most delicious and diverse street food in the country. You can taste some of the specialties such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), banh mi (sandwich), nem (spring roll), cha ca (grilled fish), egg coffee and more. You can find street food stalls and vendors in various places in Hanoi, such as the Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market, West Lake, Ba Dinh Square and more.

Visiting floating market

16 visiting floating market 30e8e
Vietnam has some of the most colorful and lively floating markets in Southeast Asia, where you can see how the local people trade their goods on boats on the rivers and canals. You can also buy some of the fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, seafood and other products from the floating vendors. You can also enjoy the scenery and the atmosphere of the water life in Vietnam. Some of the most famous floating markets in Vietnam are Cai Rang and Cai Be in Mekong Delta, Damnoen Saduak in Nha Trang and Cho Lach in Ben Tre. You can visit floating markets by boat from nearby towns or cities.

Mud bathing in Nhatrang


17 mud bathing in nhatrang 50d7c
Nha Trang is a coastal city in the south central of Vietnam, famous for its beaches, islands and resorts. You can also enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating activity of mud bathing in Nha Trang, which is said to have many health benefits such as detoxifying, moisturizing, soothing and healing your skin and body. You can soak in a tub or pool filled with mineral-rich mud, which is warm and smooth. You can also enjoy other facilities such as hot springs, jacuzzi, sauna, massage and more. Some of the best places for mud bathing in Nha Trang are Thap Ba Hot Springs Center, I-Resort Nha Trang and 100 Eggs Mud Bath.

Motor bike in Ha Giang


motor bike in ha giang
Ha Giang is a province in the northwest of Vietnam, famous for its stunning scenery of mountains, valleys, rivers and rice terraces. It is also home to many ethnic minority groups who have their own culture and lifestyle. You can explore Ha Giang by motorbike, which is an adventurous and rewarding way to see the country. You can ride along the winding roads that pass through some of the most beautiful places such as Dong Van Plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass, Lung Cu Flag Tower, Quan Ba Heaven Gate and more. You can also interact with the local people and learn about their culture and traditions.

Beach relax


Beach relax

Vietnam has many beautiful beaches where you can relax and enjoy the sun, sand and sea. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Phu Quoc Island: This island in the south of Vietnam is known for its white sand beaches, clear water and tropical forests. You can also visit the Phu Quoc National Park, the Phu Quoc Prison Museum and the Dinh Cau Temple.
  • Nha Trang: This coastal city in central Vietnam is a popular destination for beach lovers, divers and party-goers. You can also explore the Po Nagar Cham Towers, the Long Son Pagoda and the Vinpearl Land amusement park.
  • Mui Ne: This town in southeast Vietnam is famous for its sand dunes, kite surfing and fishing village. You can also visit the Fairy Stream, the Red Canyon and the White Lake.

Biking Mekong


Biking Mekong
The Mekong Delta is a vast region in southern Vietnam where the Mekong River splits into many branches before reaching the sea. It is home to diverse landscapes, cultures and wildlife. Biking is a great way to explore this area and see the rural life, rice fields, fruit orchards, floating markets and pagodas. You can join a guided tour or rent a bike and go on your own.

Boat trip in Ninh Binh

Boat trip in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a province in northern Vietnam that is often called "Halong Bay on land" because of its stunning scenery of limestone karsts, rivers, caves and rice paddies. A boat trip is a must-do activity here, as you can glide through the waterways and admire the natural beauty and wildlife. Some of the best places to take a boat trip are:

  • Trang An: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a complex of temples, pagodas, caves and mountains. You can take a 2-hour boat ride that will take you through 9 caves and 3 temples.
  • Tam Coc: This area is famous for its three caves that you can enter by boat. You can also see the Bich Dong Pagoda, the Thai Vi Temple and the Mua Cave.
  • Van Long: This nature reserve is a haven for birds and other animals. You can take a 1-hour boat ride that will take you through the wetlands and see the endangered Delacour's langur.

Discover the caves

Discover the caves

Vietnam has some of the most spectacular caves in the world, especially in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in central Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains over 300 caves, including the largest cave in the world: Son Doong Cave. You can join a tour to explore some of these caves, such as:

  • Son Doong Cave: This cave is so huge that it has its own jungle, river and climate inside. It can fit a 40-story skyscraper or a Boeing 747 inside. You can join a 4-day expedition to explore this cave, but it is very expensive and limited to only 500 people per year.
  • Hang En Cave: This cave is the third largest cave in the world and has a massive entrance that looks like a giant archway. It also has a turquoise lake and a sandy beach inside. You can join a 2-day trek to camp inside this cave.
  • Paradise Cave: This cave is one of the most beautiful caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It has impressive stalactites, stalagmites and rock formations that look like curtains, chandeliers and terraces. You can walk along a wooden boardwalk for 1 km or join a 7 km adventure tour to see more of this cave.

Drink Bia Hoi

Drink Bia Hoi
Bia Hoi is a type of fresh beer that is brewed daily and sold at street stalls and local bars in Vietnam. It is very cheap (about 5,000 VND or 0.22 USD per glass) and has a low alcohol content (about 3%). It is also very refreshing and goes well with snacks like peanuts, fried tofu or grilled meat. Drinking Bia Hoi is a great way to mingle with locals and experience the lively atmosphere of Vietnam's nightlife.

Family beach relax

Family beach relax

If you are travelling with your family, you might want to choose a beach destination that has family-friendly facilities, activities and services. Some of the best places for family beach relax are:

  • Da Nang: This city in central Vietnam has many clean and spacious beaches that are suitable for swimming, sunbathing and playing. You can also visit the Marble Mountains, the Ba Na Hills, the Dragon Bridge and the Museum of Cham Sculpture.
  • Hoi An: This charming town in central Vietnam has a UNESCO World Heritage Site old town that is full of history, culture and architecture. You can also enjoy the nearby beaches of An Bang and Cua Dai, where you can rent bikes, kayaks, surfboards and more.
  • Phan Thiet: This town in southeast Vietnam is a popular getaway for families from Ho Chi Minh City. You can relax on the long and sandy beach of Mui Ne, or visit the nearby attractions like the Fairy Stream, the Red Canyon and the White Lake.

Joining Farmer on the eco tour

joining farmer on the eco tour

If you want to learn more about the rural life and culture of Vietnam, you can join a farmer on an eco tour. This is a type of tour that allows you to visit a local farm, interact with the farmer and his family, and participate in some of their daily activities. Some of the things you can do on an eco tour are:

  • Planting and harvesting rice: You can learn how to plant, transplant, harvest and thresh rice using traditional tools and methods. You can also try plowing the field with a water buffalo or riding a tractor.
  • Making handicrafts: You can learn how to make some of the local handicrafts, such as bamboo baskets, coconut hats, silk lanterns or pottery. You can also buy some of these products as souvenirs or gifts.
  • Cooking and eating local food: You can learn how to cook some of the local dishes, such as spring rolls, pho, banh xeo or cao lau. You can also enjoy a delicious meal with the farmer and his family and taste some of their homemade wine or tea

Joining the festival of local

Joining the festival of local
Vietnam has many festivals throughout the year, celebrating the culture, history and religion of the country. Some of the most popular festivals are Tet (the lunar new year), Hoi An Lantern Festival (a monthly event where the ancient town is lit up by colorful lanterns), Perfume Pagoda Festival (a pilgrimage to a sacred Buddhist site in a mountain cave), and Mid-Autumn Festival (a harvest celebration with mooncakes and lanterns).

Kayaking halong bay

Kayaking halong bay
Halong Bay is one of the most iconic attractions in Vietnam, with thousands of limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters. Kayaking is a great way to explore the bay, as you can paddle through caves, lagoons and hidden beaches. You can join a day tour or an overnight cruise that includes kayaking as an activity.

Meeting an talking local people

Meeting an talking local people
One of the best ways to learn about Vietnam is to interact with the local people, who are friendly, hospitable and curious. You can meet and talk to locals in various ways, such as staying in a homestay, joining a cultural tour, visiting a local market, taking a language class, or simply striking up a conversation at a cafe or park.

Photography Tour

photography Tour
Vietnam is a photographer's dream, with its diverse landscapes, vibrant colors and rich culture. You can capture stunning shots of the country by joining a photography tour, where you can learn from a professional guide and visit some of the most photogenic spots. Some of the best places for photography in Vietnam are Hoi An, Sapa, Mui Ne, Ninh Binh and Phong Nha.

Trekking mountains

trekking mountains
Vietnam has some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Southeast Asia, with lush valleys, terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. Trekking is a great way to experience the natural beauty and culture of the mountains, as you can hike through remote trails, stay overnight in local homes and enjoy breathtaking views. Some of the best places for trekking in Vietnam are Sapa, Mai Chau, Ha Giang and Dalat.

Riding Elephant in Buon Me Thuot

Riding Elephant in Buon Me Thuot
Buon Me Thuot is the capital of Dak Lak province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, known for its coffee production and elephant culture. You can ride an elephant in Buon Me Thuot at one of the elephant camps or villages, where you can learn about the history and tradition of these gentle giants. You can also visit the Yok Don National Park, where you can see wild elephants in their natural habitat.

Riding elephants in Buon Me Thuot and other places in Vietnam has been banned and will no longer be available, as it is considered cruel and harmful to the animals. You can still visit and feed the elephants, but you will not be able to ride them for sightseeing. Instead, you can learn about the elephant culture and conservation efforts in Vietnam, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Central Highlands. We hope you understand and respect this decision, and support the welfare of the elephants in Vietnam.

Trekking Mai Chau - Sapa

trekking mai chau sapa
Mai Chau and Sapa are two of the most popular destinations for trekking in Vietnam, as they offer stunning views of the mountains, rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. You can join a guided trek or hike independently, depending on your level of experience and preference. You can also stay overnight in a homestay or a hotel, and enjoy the local food and culture. Mai Chau is located in Hoa Binh province, about 140 km from Hanoi, while Sapa is located in Lao Cai province, about 320 km from Hanoi.

Visit Fair market in Bac Ha

Visit Fair market in Bac Ha
Bac Ha is a small town in Lao Cai province, near the border with China. It is famous for its Sunday market, where various ethnic groups such as the Hmong, Dao, Tay and Nung gather to trade their goods and socialize. You can see colorful costumes, handicrafts, livestock, food and drinks at the market, and experience the vibrant atmosphere and culture of the highlands. You can also visit some nearby attractions such as the Ban Pho village, the Hoang A Tuong palace and the Thai Giang Pho waterfall.

Visit Waterfalls in Cao Bang

Visit Waterfalls in Cao Bang
Cao Bang is a province in the northeast of Vietnam, known for its natural beauty and historical significance. It is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the country, such as the Ban Gioc waterfall, which is the largest and most scenic waterfall in Vietnam, located on the border with China. You can also visit other waterfalls such as the Nguom Ngao cave waterfall, the Thac Pac Bo waterfall and the Thac Khuoi Ky waterfall. You can also explore some cultural and historical sites in Cao Bang, such as the Pac Bo cave, where Ho Chi Minh stayed in 1941, or the Dong Khe battlefield, where a major battle took place during the First Indochina War.

Visiting Cultural sites and discover Vietnam history of thousand years

Visiting Cultural sites and discover Vietnam history of 4 thousand years
Vietnam has a rich and diverse history that spans over a thousand years, from ancient kingdoms to colonial rule to modern independence. You can visit many cultural sites that reflect this history, such as the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, which is the oldest university in Vietnam and a symbol of Confucianism; the Imperial City of Hue, which was the capital of the Nguyen dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the My Son Sanctuary, which was a religious center of the Champa civilization and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site; or the Cu Chi Tunnels, which were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

Visiting old battle field

Visiting old battle field
Vietnam has been involved in many wars throughout its history, both internally and externally. You can visit some of the old battlefields that witnessed these wars, such as Dien Bien Phu, where the decisive battle of the First Indochina War took place in 1954; Khe Sanh, where one of the longest and bloodiest battles of the Vietnam War took place in 1968; Long Tan, where a fierce battle between Australian and Vietnamese forces took place in 1966; or the Vietnam DMZ, where the border between North and South Vietnam was established and contested for many years. You can also visit some museums and memorials that commemorate these wars, such as the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City or the Military History Museum in Hanoi. If you are a veteran who wants to revisit the old battlefields, you can contact vietnamtour.com to design private tours for your own group to review the memories and learn more about the history of these places. We have experienced guides and drivers who can take you to any site you wish to see and share their insights and stories with you.

Visiting pepper farm coffee farm

visiting pepper farm coffee farm
Vietnam is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of pepper and coffee, two of its main agricultural products. You can visit some pepper farms and coffee farms in different regions of Vietnam, such as Phu Quoc island, Buon Ma Thuot or Da Lat. You can learn about how these crops are grown, harvested and processed, and taste some fresh and delicious products. You can also buy some pepper or coffee as souvenirs or gifts for your friends and family.

Watch the Cong Chieng show of Chu Rai people

Watch the Cong Chieng show of Chu Rai people
The Chu Rai people are one of the ethnic minorities living in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. They have a unique musical tradition that uses bronze gongs called cong chieng to create melodies and rhythms. The cong chieng show is a cultural performance that showcases this tradition, along with other aspects of Chu Rai culture such as costumes, dances and rituals. You can watch this show at some cultural centers or festivals in places like Kon Tum or Pleiku. Vietnam is a country that has something for everyone, from natural wonders to cultural heritage, from adventure to relaxation, from history to modernity. Whether you want to cruise along the majestic Halong Bay, trek through the stunning mountains of Sapa, explore the ancient temples of Hue and My Son, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you will find your perfect vacation in Vietnam. With so many things to do and see in this amazing country, you will never run out of reasons to visit Vietnam again and again. If you are looking for a reliable and professional travel agency to help you plan your trip to Vietnam, look no further than VietnamTour.Com. We have more than 17 years of experience in the field of tourism, with a team of expert travel consultants and long-term partners in the region. We can help you design any tour or travel package to Vietnam and Indochina, according to your preferences, budget and interests. Please contact us to book a tour or use the form on our website to design your own tour to Vietnam. We are looking forward to hearing from you and making your dream vacation come true.




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