You probably already knew that Vietnam as a holiday country has a lot to offer. Beautiful nature, energetic cities, unique culture, bounty beaches and a friendly population. And with all this beauty comes an infinite amount of things to do in Vietnam. That is why we made this ultimate bucket list with 20 must do’s in Vietnam. If you have done all these best things to do in Vietnam, we can ensure you that you had the most awesome trip in your life. But we understand that not everybody has enough time to do everything or that some things are a bit too much for some people. In this case, just use this list as a guide line of must do’s in Vietnam.
Tips for choosing the best things to do in Vietnam
When planning your trip to Vietnam, selecting the best activities can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of incredible experiences available. This section will provide you with practical tips to help you pick the best things to do in Vietnam, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable journey.
Focus on specific regions based on your trip duration
Vietnam offers an array of amazing activities, but it’s impossible to fit everything into one trip. Focus on exploring specific regions depending on your available time. This way, you can fully experience the best things to do in Vietnam without spending too much time traveling between distant locations. Vietnam is a large country with roads that often traverse mountains and towns, making travel times lengthy. Here’s a guideline to help plan your itinerary:
- 1 week: Focus on one region, with North Vietnam being a top choice.
- 2 weeks: Cover a maximum of two regions, or stay within one region to explore more thoroughly. Consider North and Central Vietnam.
- 3 weeks: You can explore the whole country or just North and Central Vietnam.
- 4 weeks: This allows for a comprehensive journey through North, Central, and South Vietnam.
Prioritize your interests
With so many things to do in Vietnam, it’s essential to prioritize activities that align with your personal interests. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, adventure, or food, focusing on what excites you most will ensure a more fulfilling trip. Make a list of must-see highlights and tailor your itinerary to include these preferences.
Consider the season
Vietnam’s climate varies significantly from north to south and by season. Researching the best time to visit for your desired activities can enhance your experience. For example, the northern regions are best visited in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), while the southern beaches are ideal during the dry season from December to April.
Read here our guide: best time to visit Vietnam
Balance adventure with relaxation
Vietnam offers a mix of thrilling adventures and relaxing retreats. Ensure your itinerary includes a balance of both. After an exciting trek in Sapa or a motorbike tour through the mountains, plan some downtime at a serene beach or a leisurely boat cruise in Halong Bay. This balance will help you recharge and make the most of your trip.
Match activities to your level
When choosing what to do in Vietnam, consider your adventure and fitness levels. Whether you prefer exploring on the back of a motorbike or by car, making a half-day hike or a multi-day trek, or staying in a comfortable hotel versus a basic homestay with ethnic people, tailor your itinerary to match your comfort and ability levels. This ensures you enjoy the experiences without overexerting yourself.
Our list of best things to do in Vietnam
As local experts, we have crafted our list of the best things to do in Vietnam with unparalleled insight and experience. Unlike many other lists created by visitors who have only been to the country once or twice, or general travel websites lacking specific expertise, our recommendations come from a unique blend of local knowledge and a deep understanding of what Western travelers seek. Our team at Local Vietnam consists of both locals and Western travelers who have lived in Vietnam for many years, giving us the perfect balance to curate an authentic and engaging list of must-do activities.
Overview of best things to do in Vietnam:
- Ha Giang Loop
- Walk through the Ancient Town of Hoi An
- Cruise in Halong Bay
- Trekking in Sapa
- Explore a cave in Phong Nha
- Street Food Tour
- Take a boat trip in Ninh Binh
- Visit a local hill tribe market
- Hiking in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
- Canyoning in Dalat
- Have a beer at Bia Hoi Junction
- Explore Hue Imperial City
- Relax on the Beaches of Phu Quoc
- Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels
- Visit a floating market in the Mekong Delta
- Cycle through Mai Chau countryside
- Go by motorbike over the Hai Van Pass
- Take a cooking Class
- Drink a cocktail on a rooftop bar in Saigon
- Explore the island of Con Dao
- Explore the terraced rice fields of Mu Cang Chai
- Visit the Ban Gioc Waterfall
- Explore Quy Nhon’s hidden fishing villages
- Watch a traditional show in Vietnam
- Enjoy beach activities in Mui Ne
1. Ha Giang Loop
The Ha Giang Loop is one of the best things to do in Vietnam and is considered one of the most beautiful motor trails in the world. Spanning 3 to 5 days, this route takes you through ethnic minority villages and bustling hill tribe markets, offering some of the most stunning mountain scenery in Vietnam.
Expect breathtaking mountain passes, winding roads, and a sense of adventure that is unparalleled.
Options to do the Ha Giang Loop
Driving a motorbike: Super cool and adventurous, but only recommended for those with experience and a valid motorbike license. This is not the place to start learning to drive.
On the back of a motorbike: Still provides the amazing experience and feel of freedom, but is a much safer option than driving yourself. This is the most recommended option if you are comfortable with the idea of being on the back of a motorbike.
By car: Following the same route, this option offers more comfort and better protection against the weather. While it may be less adventurous compared to the motorbike option, it’s perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed journey.
Make sure to check our Ha Giang tours here for all the options.
2. Walk through the Ancient Town of Hoi An
Hoi An is a beautifully preserved ancient town with a rich history and vibrant culture. Strolling through its streets, you can admire old houses, visit temples, cross the iconic Japanese bridge, and explore bustling local markets. The blend of historical architecture and cultural significance makes Hoi An a must-visit.
Tip: Spend more time in Hoi An
The stunning ancient city center can be explored in just half a day, but Hoi An is so charming that you’ll want to stay longer (except during the rainy season). Enjoy its nice beaches, take day trips to Son Tra Peninsula, Cham Island, and My Son temple complex. You can also cycle through the countryside, or relax by the pool at one of the many beautiful resorts.
3. Cruise in Halong Bay
Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. The best way to explore this natural wonder is by taking a cruise. During the cruise, you can expect activities like kayaking, visiting caves, swimming, and enjoying spectacular sunsets.
Don’t go to Halong Bay!
Wait, what? Yes, Halong Bay is stunning. But it’s also overcrowded with tourists and boats. Fortunately, there are equally beautiful alternatives:
- Lan Ha Bay: Located right next to Halong Bay, it’s perfect to combine with Cat Ba Island if you want more activities like trekking and cycling.
- Bai Tu Long Bay: Offers similar scenery but is much less crowded, providing a more serene experience.
4. Trekking in Sapa
Sapa is renowned for its fantastic trekking opportunities. You can trek to various villages in the valley, interact with locals, and discover their daily lives. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful landscapes, including stunning rice terraces.
Homestay experience
For a more immersive experience, opt for a two-day trek and spend the night in a homestay with hospitable locals from ethnic groups. A stunning trekking through the rice fields with an overnight stay at an ethnic homestay is one of the best things to do in Vietnam! The overnight stay is often very basic but unforgettable, as you see how they live, cook on an open fire, and join family dinners, including drinking homemade rice wine.
Read our full guide about everything you need to know about trekking in Sapa, including routes and options.
5. Explore a cave in Phong Nha
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the most beautiful and important highlights in Vietnam. This limestone region, consisting of 300 discovered caves, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit several of these caves.
From easy cave walks to caving expeditions
Easy cave walks: Caves like Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave are perfect for everyone, with well-laid paths and lighting.
Expeditions: For the more adventurous, caves like Tu Lan Cave, Hang Pygme, and Hang En Cave offer thrilling experiences, requiring swimming in underground rivers, hiking through jungles, and camping inside caves.
Read here our list of: Best caves in Phong Nha
6. Street Food Tour
A street food tour is one of the best things to do in Vietnam and a fantastic way to experience the local culture. Street food is an integral part of Vietnamese culture. However, for tourists from countries where street food isn’t as common, it can be daunting to try. A street food tour with a local guide can be the perfect solution. The guide knows the best places, offers insights into the food and culture, and takes you to spots you might not discover on your own.
Best places for a Street Food Tour
Walking Street Food Tour in Hanoi: Explore the streets of the Old Quarter, taste the best food Vietnam has to offer, visit hidden places, and enjoy a coffee at the end of your tour on Hanoi Train Street. (check this tour)
On the back of a motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City: Level up from the classic street food tour. You not only eat like a local but also travel like one. It’s a fun adventure, eating delicious food and exploring places beyond the tourist center.
7. Take a boat trip in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is a rural province with gigantic limestone rock formations, green rice fields, rivers, lakes, caves, and temples. The best way to see this impressive landscape is by taking a boat trip, which is one of the best things to do in Vietnam.
Best Boat Trips in Ninh Binh
Trang An: The most scenic boat trip, offering stunning views of the landscape and caves.
Tam Coc: A beautiful route that takes you through rice fields.
Van Long: A less touristic area with hardly any people, featuring wetland scenery.
8. Visit a local hill tribe market
Visiting a local hill tribe market in Vietnam is a vibrant and colorful experience. These markets are bustling with ethnic minority women wearing their finest, often brightly colored clothes. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with people bargaining over local produce and cooking on open fires. A highlight for many visitors is the cattle market, where buffalo, cows, pigs, and more are bought and sold. Most markets are held once a week, making them a unique cultural experience.
Popular hill tribe markets
- Bac Ha Market (Lao Cai): A lively market known for its diverse ethnic minority stalls and bustling atmosphere.
- Meo Vac Market (Ha Giang): Famous for its Sunday cattle market and colorful traditional attire.
- Dong Van Market (Ha Giang): Held every Sunday, this market is a cultural hub for the local ethnic groups.
- Coc Ly Market (Lao Cai): A smaller, yet equally vibrant market held every Tuesday, offering a more intimate experience.
9. Hiking in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a stunning area featuring terraced rice fields, lush jungles, palm trees, and mountains. The reserve is home to Tay ethnic people who live in stilt houses, creating a peaceful and authentic rural atmosphere. You can enjoy trekking through the beautiful landscapes and exploring local villages.
Pu Luong vs Sapa
Unless you have weeks to spend in Vietnam, it’s best to choose either Sapa or Pu Luong for trekking. Sapa offers more activities, easier access, and numerous accommodation options, but has only one rice harvest. Pu Luong, on the other hand, is smaller, has two rice harvests, boasts jungle landscapes, and is far less touristy, offering a more tranquil experience.
10. Canyoning in Dalat
Canyoning in Dalat is an absolute must-do for adventure seekers. This thrilling activity involves abseiling down waterfalls, jumping from cliffs, and sliding down natural rock slides. It’s a test of courage and an exhilarating experience that showcases Dalat’s beautiful landscapes.
Other Adventure Activities in Dalat
- ATV Driving: Explore rugged terrains and enjoy the thrill of off-road driving.
- Mountain Biking: Traverse scenic trails and challenging routes.
- Trekking: Discover the stunning nature of Dalat through various trekking paths.
- Easy Rider Tour: Experience Dalat like a local on the back of a motorbike, guided by an experienced rider.
11. Have a beer at Bia Hoi Junction
Bia Hoi Junction in Hanoi is famous for serving the cheapest beer in the world. The experience involves sitting on low plastic stools, surrounded by locals, and watching the vibrant nightlife pass by. Bia Hoi is a light, refreshing beer, making it a perfect drink for warm evenings.
Craft beer tours in Hanoi
Hanoi also offers craft beer tours, where you can taste a variety of unique beers, from cheap local brews to those from established breweries. These tours provide insights into the city’s beer culture and take you to hidden spots you might not find on your own.
12. Explore Hue Imperial City
Hue Imperial City is a historical treasure, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past. The vast complex includes palaces, temples, walls, and gates, all surrounded by a moat. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a highlight for history enthusiasts.
Other things to do in Hue
Dragon boat ride on the Perfume River: Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda while enjoying a scenic boat ride.
Royal Tombs: Explore the impressive tombs of Emperor Khai Dinh and Emperor Tu Duc, known for their grand architecture and serene surroundings.
13. Relax on the beaches of Phu Quoc
Relaxing on the beaches of Phu Quoc is one of the best things to do in Vietnam for beach lovers. There are so many beaches on Phu Quoc that it is difficult to choose which one is the most beautiful. It is not for nothing that opinions are divided on this. Truong Beach is at least the beach with the most hotels and resorts. Those who really want to relax should go to the isolated Sao Beach. Also on Ganh Dau Beach it is nice and quiet everywhere.
Best time to visit Phu Quoc
Before planning your beach holiday to Phu Quoc, consider the best time to visit. The rainy season lasts from May to November, with heavy rains from June to September. If you’re traveling during these months and want to visit beaches, consider Central Vietnam destinations like Hoi An, Da Nang, or Nha Trang, where the weather is more favorable.
14. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction where visitors can learn about the war and experience what life was like for the soldiers. You can explore the tunnels via tours, with the limousine bus tour offering a small group experience and the speedboat tour providing a scenic river journey from Ho Chi Minh City.
War Remnants Museum
For those interested in learning more about the Vietnam War, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit. It offers detailed exhibits and displays that provide deep insights into the war’s history and impact.
15. Visit a floating market in the Mekong Delta
One of the best things to do in Vietnam is to visit a floating market in the Mekong Delta. Market vendors gather at dawn on the water with their boats full of goods and start trading. It’s a special spectacle where bananas, onions, pineapples, and other fruits and vegetables are exchanged, and the best prices are negotiated. The most famous and biggest floating market is the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho.
Other things to do in the Mekong Delta
- Cycling: The Mekong Delta is one of the best places in Vietnam for cycling, with its flat landscape, peaceful countryside roads, and local villages and orchards to visit.
- Boat tour: From luxury cruises to traditional sampan rowing boat rides, explore the big Mekong River and smaller side canals to see local life.
- Visit workshops and orchards: The Mekong Delta is a major production area in Vietnam, where many fruits are grown. Local workshops make rice paper, coconut candy, and other products.
16. Cycle through Mai Chau countryside
Mai Chau, located just a few hours from the chaotic hustle of Hanoi, is the perfect place for bike rides through picturesque villages and vast rice fields. The friendly inhabitants of the valley and the variety of villages make the Mai Chau valley a very cool destination.
Combine with Pu Luong
Earlier in this list of best things to do in Vietnam, we mentioned Pu Luong. Mai Chau is nearby Pu Luong and can be perfectly combined in a trip. First, enjoy cycling in Mai Chau, visit Tay villages and explore the flat valley. Then continue to Pu Luong for trekking through jungles and terraced rice fields. Check out our combination tour of Pu Luong and Mai Chau.
17. Go by motorbike over the Hai Van Pass
Riding over the Hai Van Pass is one of the top things to do in Vietnam, especially for those who love scenic drives. Made famous by Top Gear, this mountain pass offers stunning coastal views and scenic stops. The best way to experience it is with an Easy Rider tour, where you ride on the back of a motorbike with an experienced driver. This tour often includes stops at Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co Beach, and the Marble Mountains.
Alternatives for motorbike tours
Military jeep: Experience the same route in an open old military jeep.
Car with driver: This option is less adventurous but more comfortable and, when in a group, the cheapest.
18. Take a cooking Class
One of the best things to do in Vietnam is to take a cooking class. After enjoying Vietnam’s delicious cuisine, you might be curious about the secrets behind the dishes. A cooking course usually takes a day and often includes a trip to the market with your hosts. You’ll learn about typical ingredients and Vietnamese culture while honing your cooking skills.
Hoi An cooking class
Hoi An is the most famous destination for cooking classes. The classes here often include market tours and hands-on cooking experiences, making it a highlight of any visit to Vietnam.
19. Drink a cocktail on a rooftop bar in Saigon
If you enjoy nightlife, then Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be. Sitting on a low plastic chair at Bui Vien Street drinking beer, hanging at a cool bar, or enjoying music in one of the trendy bars are all great options. However, an absolute must-do in Vietnam is visiting a rooftop bar in this city. There are many choices, from old colonial hotels to ultra-modern skyscrapers, and from relaxing places to enjoy the view to lively spots for dancing and clubbing.
Best Rooftop Bars
- Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar: Located at the Caravelle Hotel, it offers a historic charm and great views.
- Broma: Not a Bar: A relaxed atmosphere with a fantastic view of the Saigon skyline.
- Air 360 Sky Lounge: An ultra-modern spot for cocktails and panoramic views.
20. Explore the island of Con Dao
Con Dao Island is a less-touristic alternative to Phu Quoc, with beautiful beaches and a rich history. Once a notorious prison island during French colonial times, Con Dao is now known for its natural beauty and wildlife. It’s also a significant spot for turtle conservation, with turtles laying eggs at certain times of the year.
Diving in Con Dao
Con Dao is one of the best diving destinations in Vietnam, offering clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
21. Explore the terraced rice fields of Mu Cang Chai
Mu Cang Chai is an alternative to Sapa, offering some of the most stunning terraced rice fields in Vietnam. Because Mu Cang Chai is less developed, it sees visitors mainly from May to September, when the rice fields are in use. The best way to see it is by trekking, making it a great destination for adventure travelers.
Rice harvest season in Mu Cang Chai
The watering season starts in May, creating a mirror effect in the fields. From June to August, the rice fields showcase different stages of growth, offering beautiful views. The rice harvest occurs in September, sometimes extending to early October, making it the most stunning time of the year to visit.
22. Visit the Ban Gioc Waterfall
The Ban Gioc Waterfall, located in Cao Bang province on the Chinese border, is the most beautiful waterfall in Vietnam. This impressive natural wonder cascades down multiple tiers, creating a stunning display of water and mist. The sight of Ban Gioc is breathtaking, with its powerful flow and lush surrounding scenery making it a highlight for any visitor.
Cao Bang is More Than the Ban Gioc Waterfall
While the Ban Gioc Waterfall is the biggest attraction in the province of Cao Bang, there is so much more to see. This region, often compared to Ha Giang for its natural beauty, remains relatively undiscovered by tourists.
Exploring beyond the waterfall, you’ll find hidden valleys, stunning mountain passes, and local villages of ethnic people.
It’s an off-the-beaten-track experience where you can feel far from everything else in the world.
Read here our full list of best things to do in Cao Bang.
23. Explore Quy Nhon’s hidden fishing villages
Quy Nhon, located on Vietnam’s south-central coast, is a charming city known mostly to Vietnamese tourists. Beyond the city, you’ll discover numerous local fishing villages, each with beautiful beaches. These villages use traditional basket boats to reach their fishing vessels in the sea, offering a glimpse into really local life. While Quy Nhon might require a detour from popular Vietnam itineraries, it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate local beach life.
Phu Yen
Just south of Quy Nhon lies Phu Yen province, an even more off-the-beaten-track destination. Known for some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, Phu Yen is virtually untouched by tourism.
If you have the time or love exploring lesser-known regions, Quy Nhon and Phu Yen offer a fantastic experience.
24. Watch a traditional show in Vietnam
Traditional shows in Vietnam offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage, often telling stories of historical events, legends, and everyday life.
Hanoi: Water Puppet Show
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi is famous for its traditional water puppet shows. These performances, set in a pool of water, depict various Vietnamese legends and rural scenes with puppets controlled by skilled puppeteers. It’s a unique cultural experience that brings to life the stories and traditions of Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City: A O Show at the Saigon Opera House
The A O Show and The Mist at the Saigon Opera House combines traditional Vietnamese music, acrobatics, and contemporary dance to tell stories of rural and urban life in Vietnam. The stunning visuals and performances make it a must-see in Ho Chi Minh City.
Hoi An: Hoi An Memories Show
The Hoi An Memories Show is a grand outdoor performance that takes place in Hoi An. This show, held at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, features hundreds of performers and tells the story of Hoi An’s rich history and cultural heritage through song, dance, and elaborate costumes. It’s a spectacular visual treat that should not be missed.
25. Enjoy beach activities in Mui Ne
Mui Ne, located along the southern coast of Vietnam, is a fantastic beach destination just a few hours’ drive from Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and clear waters, Mui Ne is perfect for a relaxing beach holiday.
Kite Surfing
Mui Ne is one of the best places in Vietnam for kite surfing, thanks to its consistent winds and favorable weather conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kite surfer, Mui Ne offers excellent opportunities to enjoy this thrilling sport.
ATV Driving and Sand Boarding
The sand dunes near Mui Ne are perfect for adventurous activities like ATV driving and sand boarding. The Red and White Sand Dunes offer expansive areas to explore, providing a unique and exciting experience.
Relax on the Beaches
For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the beaches of Mui Ne are ideal for relaxing. You can unwind on the soft sand, swim in the warm waters, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
Inspiration for you trip to Vietnam
After reading this list of the best things to do in Vietnam, you might still be looking for activities that suit you best. Vietnam offers so much to do, and what’s best for you really depends on your interests. To help you out further, we’ve created lists based on specific interests. Check out:
- Best cultural experiences in Vietnam
- Most beautiful rice fields in Vietnam
- Most beautiful beaches in Vietnam
- Best adventurous activities in Vietnam
- Best Off the beaten track destinations in Vietnam
- Best national parks in Vietnam
- Best trekking destinations
Planning your trip to Vietnam
When you are reading a list of best things to do in Vietnam, you are likely busy to plan your trip to Vietnam. These are also some helpfull facts about Vietnam that help you organise a trip
When reading a list of the best things to do in Vietnam, you are likely busy planning your trip. Here are some helpful facts about Vietnam to help you organize your journey.
Best time to visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s climate varies significantly by region, so the best time to visit depends on where you plan to go.
- North Vietnam: The best months to visit are in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). However, the rainy summer months (June to August) are the only time of year to see the rice fields in full bloom, making it a beautiful time despite the rain.
- Central Vietnam: The best months to visit are from February to May, avoiding the rainy season from September to December.
- South Vietnam: The best months to visit are from December to April, during the dry season.
Read our full guide on the Best time to visit Vietnam for more detailed information.
How to get around
- Domestic Flights: Surprisingly affordable, with the cheapest flights starting at $30. Vietnam has 20 domestic airports, well-connected with the major hubs in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
- Trains: While slower, train travel offers a unique and safe experience. The train network mainly connects cities along the coast and Sapa.
- Buses & Vans: Night buses can save daylight but might be less recommended for sleeping and safety concerns. Limousine vans during the day are super comfortable and affordable.
Read here our full guide: how to get around Vietnam.
Personalized trip planning services
With so many things to do in Vietnam and numerous variables to consider, planning can be overwhelming. Different travel styles, the time of year, transportation between destinations, and fitting all the best activities into one itinerary can be challenging. That’s where we come in. As local experts, we specialize in crafting personalized trips based on your wishes. Let us help you create the perfect Vietnamese adventure tailored to your interests and needs.
