Things to do in Vietnam: top experiences you can’t miss

1. Embrace nature and adventure

• Cruise Through Ha Long Bay A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s top attractions, Ha Long Bay is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. You can take a day cruise or spend the night aboard a traditional junk boat, kayaking through caves and swimming in hidden lagoons.
• Explore the Underground Wonders of Phong Nha Home to some of the world’s most impressive caves, including Son Doong - the largest cave on Earth - Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a haven for adventurers. Trek through lush jungles, swim in underground rivers, and marvel at otherworldly rock formations.
• Trek the Terraced Fields of Sapa and Ha Giang Northern Vietnam offers dramatic mountain landscapes, especially around Sapa and Ha Giang. Go trekking through rice terraces, visit ethnic minority villages, and soak in panoramic views from mountain passes like Ma Pi Leng.
• Discover the Natural Charm of Da Lat Located in the Central Highlands, Da Lat is Vietnam’s city of eternal spring. Hike to waterfalls, ride a swan boat across Xuan Huong Lake, or visit flower farms and pine forests.
• Island Hopping in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Cham Islands Vietnam's coastline is dotted with pristine islands. Snorkel in clear waters, relax on white sandy beaches, and enjoy fresh seafood by the sea.

2. Immerse yourself in culture and history

• Wander the Lantern-Lit Streets of Hoi An This ancient trading port, recognized by UNESCO, is a charming blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Explore its narrow lanes, tailors, temples, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. Don’t miss the Full Moon Lantern Festival.
• Discover Imperial Grandeur in Hue Hue, the former imperial capital, offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s royal history. Visit the Citadel, the Perfume River, royal tombs, and traditional garden houses. Enjoy a boat ride with traditional music or try Hue’s imperial cuisine.
• Feel the Pulse of History in Hanoi Hanoi, the capital city, is where tradition meets modern life. Wander the Old Quarter, visit the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy a water puppet show.
• Explore Vietnam’s Sacred Temples and Pagodas From the ancient Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi to the towering Linh Ung Pagoda in Da Nang and the vast Bai Dinh complex in Ninh Binh, temples across Vietnam reveal the country’s spiritual soul.
• Learn Through War Remnants and Battlefields Vietnam’s turbulent history is remembered at places like the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Dien Bien Phu battlefield in the northwest.

3. Experience Vietnamese cuisine and local life

• Join a Street Food Tour Vietnamese street food is legendary. In Hanoi, sample pho, bun cha, and egg coffee. In Ho Chi Minh City, try banh mi, com tam, and hu tieu. Local guides help you uncover hidden gems.
• Take a Cooking Class with Locals Many cities offer cooking classes where you can learn to make spring rolls, noodle soups, and fresh salads. Classes often start with a market visit to pick fresh ingredients.
• Sip Coffee, Vietnamese Style Vietnam has a strong coffee culture. Try robusta-based ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk), or egg coffee in Hanoi for something unique and creamy.
• Visit Traditional Markets and Night Bazaars Bustling markets are at the heart of Vietnamese life. Explore Dong Ba Market in Hue, Ben Thanh in Ho Chi Minh City, and night markets in Hoi An or Da Lat for local snacks and souvenirs.
• Taste Regional Specialties Each region has its own culinary identity. Don’t miss:

• • Pho (Hanoi)
  • Bun bo Hue (Hue)
  • Banh xeo (Saigon)
  • Mi Quang (Da Nang)

4. Relax and rejuvenate

• Unwind at Coastal Resorts Vietnam's beaches are perfect for relaxing. Luxury resorts in Da Nang, Cam Ranh, and Phu Quoc offer beachside bliss with world-class service.
• Try Traditional Vietnamese Spa Treatments Enjoy herbal steam baths, hot stone massages, and cupping therapy at spas inspired by traditional medicine.
• Cruise in Style Whether it’s an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay or a luxury river cruise along the Mekong Delta, slow travel gives you a different perspective.
• Find Peace in Yoga and Meditation Retreats Places like Hoi An, Da Lat, and Ninh Binh offer peaceful surroundings perfect for wellness getaways.

5. Shop for handicrafts and local art

• Discover Vietnamese Silk Visit Van Phuc Village near Hanoi or shops in Hoi An to see how traditional silk is made and buy tailor-made garments.
• Explore Ceramic Villages Bac Trang (near Hanoi) and Thanh Ha (near Hoi An) are renowned for handmade pottery and ceramics.
• Admire Lacquerware, Embroidery, and Bamboo Crafts Vietnamese lacquer painting and hand embroidery are intricate and unique. Browse galleries and workshops to see artisans at work.
• Visit Traditional Incense Villages
• Quang Phu Cau Village (Hanoi): Known for vibrant pink and red incense sticks drying in the sun. A great spot for photography and culture lovers.
• Thuy Xuan Village (Hue): Near the Tu Duc tomb, this village offers colorful displays of incense-making and hands-on experiences.
• Bring Home Edible Souvenirs Take a taste of Vietnam home with you: ground coffee, fish sauce, coconut candy, lotus tea, and local snacks like banh com or dried fruits.

6. Insider tips for your Vietnam trip

• Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November for pleasant weather.
• Getting Around: Use domestic flights for long distances, trains for scenic routes, and motorbikes or Grab for local travel.
• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency. Cards are accepted in most hotels and tourist restaurants.
• Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting temples and rural areas.
• Learn a Few Words: A simple "Xin chào" (Hello) or "Cảm ơn" (Thank you) goes a long way.

7. Best travel itineraries in Vietnam

For those wanting to maximize their Vietnam experience, here are some suggested itineraries based on your interests:

• 7-Day Classic Vietnam Itinerary: Start in Hanoi, visit Ha Long Bay, travel to Hue, and end in Hoi An or Ho Chi Minh City.
• Adventure Trekking Itinerary: Spend several days trekking in Sapa, Ha Giang, and Phong Nha before relaxing at beaches in Phu Quoc.
• Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the culture of Hoi An, Hue, and Hanoi with cooking classes, heritage walks, and spiritual explorations.

8. Vietnam seasonal activities and events

Vietnam has distinct seasons that offer unique experiences:

• Rice Harvest Season (May - October): Visit the rice fields in Sapa, Ha Giang, or Mai Chau to witness the golden terraces.
• Flower Blooming Season (December - February): This is when Da Lat, Hanoi, and the Mekong Delta are at their most beautiful, showcasing vibrant flowers.
• Tet Festival (January/February): If you visit during Tet (Lunar New Year), you’ll experience the festive atmosphere, traditional performances, and beautiful decorations.

9. Cultural festivals and events

• Hoi An Lantern Festival (14th day of each lunar month): A magical evening when the ancient town is lit by colorful lanterns and cultural performances.
• Hue Festival (April): A biennial event celebrating Hue’s royal history with music, dance, and cultural performances.
• Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October): Families gather to celebrate with mooncakes, lanterns, and traditional performances, especially in Hanoi.

Vietnam is a land of contrasts and surprises. From the highland villages of the north to the floating markets of the Mekong Delta, every corner of the country offers new flavors, sights, and connections. Whether you're sipping coffee in a street-side cafe or hiking in remote mountains, the beauty of Vietnam lies in its diversity and authenticity.
So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and prepare to fall in love with one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic destinations.