Vietnam is truly unlike any other country you’ve ever visited. Do you want to be surprised? Check out just a few of the incredible things that this amazing country has to offer.
There are very nice things to do in Vietnam. From discovering the local culture in beautiful settings to going to the stunning sandy beaches and discovering the rice fields, Vietnam will certainly not disappoint.
I personally stayed for a month and spent some time wandering around and exploring the best places to visit in Vietnam. During my time traveling in Southeast Asia, I must admit that Vietnam had some of the most spectacular sceneries. That being said, let’s jump into the best things to do in Vietnam!
1 USD = 23,100 VND
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Trek in Sapa (Best Thing to Do in Vietnam for Nature Lovers)
Hiking enthusiasts will have the time of their life in Sapa. It seems like you can walk through the rice terraces and never get tired of the stunning palette of yellow and green. Trekking in Sapa is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the amazing world of Vietnamese nature.
In addition, you’ll meet fantastic welcome locals that will certainly enhance the experience. I spend one night in Sapa before heading to the mountains and I stayed in Hau Thao.
I wouldn’t recommend booking any tour. You simply need to get to Sapa by train or bus, and the guesthouse owners will be there waiting for you. Just follow them and they’ll take you around the rice fields the entire day. I slept there for a night and couldn’t have enjoyed it more. After that, they’ll take you back to Sapa and you’ll be able to go back to Hanoi.
Last but not least, a night’s stay in Sapa, the meals, and the trekking journey in the mountains will cost you $30 per person. I’d say it’s an excellent price given the amazing time you’ll have.
Visit Halong Bay
A view that’s nothing short of breathtaking awaits you at Halong Bay. The bright blue skies are reflected in 1,500 square kilometers of crystal clear waters. Needless to say, it creates a picture you’re going to have difficulty forgetting once back home.
Last but not least, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is the right place to feel at one with nature.
Ride Through Ha Giang
Riding through the province of Ha Giang is one of the best things you can do in Vietnam. Rent a motorbike and follow the road snaking between the hills, admiring rice fields, rivers, and clouds that sometimes hang so low that they feel just a touch away. Unravel the beauty of Vietnam as you breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Ha Giang is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Vietnam but also in Southeast Asia.
Sail in Ninh Binh – Tam Coc (Best Thing to Do in Vietnam for an Adventure)
If you’re looking to unwind and spend some time in nature, you can’t miss out on sailing in Ninh Binh. A long stretch of river goes right through the yellow rice paddies surrounded by sharp forested cliffs, offering you a chance to sit back and do nothing but enjoy the scenic views.
Look at the locals passing you by and follow their example. If you ask me, that’s one of the best things to do in Vietnam to enjoy nature and a more authentic side of the country. Get to Ninh Binh by train or bus. After that, make your way to Tam Coc and get a ticket for a boat ride. You can only enjoy your time on that boat for 2 hours.
Boat Ride: 150,000 VND Per Person (Minimum of 2 people)
Cruise the Mekong Delta River
The Mekong Delta is more than just a river. Getting to Vietnam all the way from the Himalayas through China and Myanmar, it forms an entire region of rivers and islands. As you cruise the Mekong Delta River, you’ll see ancient pagodas, cozy villages, busy floating markets, and rice paddies. It’s called “the rice bowl of Vietnam” for a reason. Everything you can possibly need is right there, neatly tucked away in the region of Mekong Delta River.
Moreover, you can easily join a tour from Ho Chi Minh City and get accompanied by your guide all along. As much as it’s practical to travel on your own, being shown the best spots and knowing more of the history can be even better.
Light a Lantern in Hoi An’s Ancient Town
Hoi An, poetically called “the city of lanterns” is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam. Formerly a trading port, it seems almost frozen in time. With its houses and cobbled streets looking just like they did decades ago, illuminated by red and orange lanterns every night. As you light your own lantern, make a wish. The locals believe that floating it down the river in Hoi An is a guaranteed way to make it come true.
Above all, make sure to visit the city center as it’s truly one of the most amazing places in Vietnam.
RELATED GUIDE: Best Things to Do in Hoi An
Relax at Con Dao Islands
The history of the Con Dao islands is nothing short of fascinating. While most islands are uninhabited, the main island of Con Sao once housed French prisons during the independence movement. However, it’s now a National Park, famous for its beaches and generally serene atmosphere.
It’s easy to find a secluded spot and go swimming or diving in the azure waters. If you’re lucky, you may even see turtles making their very first journey from their sandy nests to the ocean. Needless to say, visiting the Con Dao Islands is definitely one of the best things to do in Vietnam.
Walk on the Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang
While the location of the stairway to heaven that Led Zeppelin was singing about is still uncertain, you can visit the Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang. A stretch of gold and metal above mountains and forests, the Golden Hands Bridge rests on two giant stone palms, gently cradling it like a newborn.
The hands symbolize the mountain god showing people the way to heaven, and the trip to paradise has never felt safer.
RELATED GUIDE: 15 Best Things to Do in Da Nang
Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels
Fresh scars stretching across the country’s face, the Cu Chi tunnels will forever serve as a reminder of the Vietnam War. Even if the war is over, the memory of those fighting for freedom needs to live on, and you can learn their stories in the Cu Chi tunnels. Come and see how they lived underground and try out a typical soldier meal. The history of Vietnam is one of the constant struggles for independence that needs to be known to never be repeated again.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are generally included in the tours going to the Mekong Delta. For this reason, both can be seen and done on the same trip which is convenient.
Swim at An Bang Beach
For a view of never-ending strips of white sand, visit An Bang Beach. Save for a few umbrellas and sunbeds giving away the human presence, it is completely untouched, offering nothing but palm trees and blue sea for the perfect day on the beach. Whether you’re here to swim, surf, or just enjoy the sunshine, the An Bang Beach will not disappoint.
Spend Some Time at Phu Quoc Island
The island of Phu Quoc looks like the image you probably have of paradise. First of all, palm trees tower over forests of green. Secondly, waves wash on the clear white sand, and the underwater world bustling with unique marine life. Doesn’t it all sound just a little too good to be true? Well, this is what Phu Quoc is all about.
Phu Quoc is one of the most beautiful islands and some of the best things to do in Vietnam. From having a tan to enjoying the delicious food and taking great shots, you’re in for a treat.
Phu Quoc is part of a protected National Park, so it is a bit of a paradise, welcoming you to its gates with open arms.
Feed Your Insta at Red Sand Dunes in Mui Ne
Your search for the best holiday picture has to lead to the Red Sand Dunes. Just like any other sand dunes at first glance, they are a rich burgundy color, creating a magical contrast with the bright blue sky.
If you want the best shots, visit the dunes at sunrise or sunset. The sky in purple, pink, and orange colors will certainly enhance the beauty of this natural wonder.
The 5 Best History and War Museums in Vietnam
There are a few war museums in Vietnam that clearly display the history that the country and people went through. The atrocity during the war, the way the people were tortured, and the war remnants, it’s important to see the sadder side of Vietnam to know the history.
War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City
Address: 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening Times: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM; 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Entrance fee: VND 15,000
Hoa Lo Museum, Hanoi
Address: 1 Pho Hoa Lo, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Opening Times: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance fee: VND 20,000
Ho Chi Minh Museum, Hanoi
Address: 19 Ngoc Ha, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam
Opening Times:
Tuesday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Entrance fee: VND 10,000
Vietnamese Women’s Museum, Hanoi
Address: 36, Ly Thuong Kiet, Hang Bai Ward, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Opening Times: Tuesday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance fee: VND 30,000
Ho Chi Minh City Museum, Saigon
Address: 65 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening Times: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily
Entrance fee: VND 30,000
Get Lost in Hanoi
For a taste of modern and multicultural Vietnam, Hanoi is the place to visit. It doesn’t matter what you’re looking to find in the capital: authentic cuisine, bustling nightlife, ancient pagodas, or a place for shopping – Hanoi has it all. Of course, it’s so easy to lose yourself in Hanoi, going from trying one thing to another.
You can never know the country without visiting its capital, and Hanoi is a great representation of what Vietnam has to offer.
Enjoy Saigon’s Nightlife (Best Thing to Do in Vietnam for Party Lovers)
If you have a free evening, you should definitely head to Saigon and enjoy the nightlife. Home to casinos, nightclubs, and rooftop bars, it’ll find something that’s right just for you even if you don’t know where you’re heading.
Get a pint, enjoy a night at the club, or go on a night river cruise. Most importantly, don’t forget to treat yourself to some delicious street food! To sum up, the one thing you won’t be in Saigon is bored.
Visit the World’s Cultural Heritage Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary
A journey back in time awaits you in Mỹ Sơn, the ancient religious and political capital of Vietnam. You’ll really feel transported back in time when wandering around the ruins of temples dating back to the 4th century.
Also, the My Son Sanctuary is a remarkable architectural project that was created over a period of ten centuries, from the 4th to the 13th centuries CE. Lastly, My Son represents a vivid picture of spiritual life is an important phase of the history of Asia.
Opening times: 6:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: 150,000₫
Visit Hue
Standing on the banks of the poetically named Perfume River, the city of Hue found the perfect balance between history and modernity. The ancient tombs of emperors are neighboring the former airport turned into a museum, and from a relaxing time at the hot springs, you can go straight into a shopping mall. Don’t let the charm of Hue be lost on you!
Take a Grab Bike
If you want to get around like a true local, call a Grab Bike. It is essentially a (very) cheap motorbike taxi that can take you pretty much anywhere you need to go. With drivers being knowledgeable about the city streets that they’re called “live maps”, you never need to worry about getting lost.
Other than the attractive price, taking a Grab Bike or Taxi is one of the best ways to get around Vietnam. You certainly don’t want to waste time in traffic and rather, enjoy the other best things to do in Vietnam!
sure that you’ll be delivered to your destination in a safe and timely manner.
Witness the Fire-Breathing Bridge in Da Nang
While these mythical beasts usually reside in myths and fairytales, you can still find a pretty realistic-looking dragon in Da Nang. This dragon-shaped bridge looks very impressive in the daytime. However, it’s best observed after 9:00 PM when the LED lights on the dragon spine light up, and its head spits out fire. No matter how many times you witness it, this technological wonder never fails to impress.
To sum up, if you want to see an entertaining and beautifully designed attraction in Da Nang, this is certainly one of the best things to do in Vietnam for you.
Discover the Vietnamese Culture in Mai Châu
The district of Mai Châu is ideal for learning about Vietnamese culture. Meet and befriend some locals as you cycle around the green valley, try some traditional foods, partake in a basket-weaving class, and enjoy traditional music performances. The Vietnamese take pride in their culture and will be happy to share it with a grateful audience.
Visit Hang Son Doong, the World’s Largest Cave
200 meters high, 175 meters wide, 9,4 kilometers long. These are the approximate measurements of Hang Son Doong, and the findings indicate that the cave is at least 5,000 years old. The cave is very dark and it’s still not fully explored, which is why getting in is a little difficult.
Oxalis Adventure Tours is the only company that organizes four-day trips led by a guide involved in the original exploration of the cave. The limit of only 1,000 visitors per year raises the cost of the tour to 9,000$. Sure, while the price tag is higher than other tours, it definitely is worth it.
How to Get Around Vietnam
The best ways to get around Vietnam are by plane, by bus, by motorbike, and by train. With many airports throughout Vietnam, many bus and train stations, and motorbikes for rent everywhere, traveling through Vietnam is very easy.
Vietnam By Plane
One of the best ways to get around Vietnam is by flying from one city to another. The main airports are Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. However, other airports are also convenient and located throughout the country.
Rather than traveling by bus or motorbike and take hours, a flight will generally only last from 1 to 2 hours, making travels within Vietnam more practical. A flight from one city to another can cost you as low as $30 booking in advance with VietJet Air or Air Asia. On the other hand, it will cost you more than traveling by bus, and this takes us to the following point.
Vietnam By Bus
Traveling within Vietnam by bus is the cheapest way to visit the countryside and get from city to city. I’d particularly recommend it if you have plenty of time ahead. A simple journey, for instance from Hanoi to Halong Bay by bus, can last up to 5 hours when it’s only 172km away.
Of course, you can save lots of money traveling Vietnam by bus. For example, you can get a bus trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat for only $11 when it costs $23 by plane. Of course, the difference is small in Western standards, but remember that you can buy a lot for $12 in Vietnam!
Also, bear in mind that buses were designed for Vietnamese travelers which means that it can be uncomfortable for fatties or tall people.
Vietnam By Motorbike
Traveling through Vietnam by motorbike can be the most challenging way to travel but it’s definitely the most enjoyable (at least out of the big cities). In addition, if you’re brave and experienced enough to ride among all other vehicles in Hanoi or Saigon to get to the countryside, that’s definitely a great way to visit Vietnam.
Lastly, I wouldn’t recommend beginner drivers to ride a motorbike through Vietnam as roads are crazy and you definitely don’t want to end up at the hospital in the Vietnamese countryside.
Vietnam By Train
Traveling Vietnam by train is fairly easy. You can buy your ticket at the train station or online and get it printed by the staff at the station. I’d say it’s the perfect mix between convenience, good value for money, and sightseeing. Trains in Vietnam are more expensive than trains but are definitely more convenient. If you want a unique experience, get onto a sleeper and wake up the following morning seeing the wonderful lush green Vietnamese scenery.
How Long to Travel Vietnam?
I personally stayed in Vietnam for a month and it was long enough for me to visit Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, Hanoi, and Sapa. Note that I was working while traveling which made me spend less time going around the country. As a whole, there are plenty of things to do in Vietnam that you can enjoy in a month from big cities to the beaches and the mountains.
For the ones wondering, I got my 1-month tourist Visa with Vietnam Visa and the process was smooth and easy until I got to the airport in Saigon.
What Are The Best Months to Visit Vietnam?
The best months to visit Vietnam will depend on whether you’re planning to visit the North or the South. Vietnam is massive and differences can be radical between the northern part of the country and the southern part.
The best months to visit Vietnam are between November and May if you’re traveling to the North.
However, if you plan to travel to South Vietnam, the months between November and March are the best ones. While it’s certainly pleasant to travel the whole year, you’re going to want to experience the best things to do in Vietnam at the right time.
More Vietnam Travel Guides
- All Vietnam Travel Guides
- Awesome Things to Do in Hoi An
- Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam
- Amazing things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
- Plan the Perfect 3-Day Hoi An Itinerary
- Plan The Perfect 5-Day Da Nang Itinerary
- Plan the Perfect 7-Day Central Vietnam Itinerary
- Dragon Bridge in Da Nang: Visitors’ Guide
- Ba Na Hills Tour – Complete Travel Guide
- Da Nang Cathedral – Visitors’ Guide
- Lady Buddha in Da Nang – Visitors’ Guide
