25 Best Things To Do in Vietnam: Explore Now

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Vietnam

Written By: LAIBA ARIF

Starting from Ho Chi Minh, a city that never sleeps to the Tai Chi on the calm waters of Ha Long Bay, there is something for everybody in this amazing Southeast Asian country. Also, you can explore the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Mekong Delta. Here are the best things to do in Vietnam that will make your adventure amazing.

1. Cruise Through Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of emerald green waters and islands of limestone. They offer numerous ways to see the bay, including day trips and stays on board luxurious boats, in one, two or three day cruises.

Timing: Best from October to April.
Time Taken: Day trips or 1-3 day cruises.
Cost: $50 to $200 per person depending on cruise.
Address: Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam.

2. Take a Tour in Hoi An

Hoi An is another outstanding place that offers the guests unforgettable cultural and historical experience. It boasts an Ancient Town which has been enlisted as world heritage by UNESCO.

Highlights:

In the past, it was a very important seaport of Indochina and was attracting merchants from Japan, China and European countries.
It is manifested in architectural styles, such as Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and European influence is also redesigned in the building of the town.
Tourists can wander around the labyrinth of crooked alleys where well built houses, premises of local stores, and shrines are situated.
Tourist attractions include famous bridges, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge because of the commercial relations between Hoi An and Japan. Also the Old House of Tan Ky gives the history of merchants in Hoi An.
Besides its heritage areas, today Hoi An is famous for nightlife, which is rather lively in some areas, for example, around the river.
The town’s lit up streets at night and particularly during the lantern festival are lit by several hundred lanterns. Also, during this time, vendors sell items made by artisans in the town.
The town also serves a variety of Vietnamese cuisine to suit the endearing clients and tourists like cao lau – a bowl of noodle soup, and banh mi, the Vietnamese sandwich.
Timing: Early morning or evening to avoid crowds.
Time Taken: 1-2 days.
Cost: Free entry, guided tours around $20-$30.
Address: Hoi An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.

3. Imperial City of Hue

A place with rich history, it was once the capital of Vietnam’s ancient imperial period that has such main attractions as the Citadel and royal tombs. Take a boat cruise of the Perfume River in order to appreciate the city from a different perspective.

Timing: Best in Spring (March-April) or Autumn (September-November).
Time Taken: 3-4 hours.
Cost: Entry fee approx. $5.
Address: Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam.

4. Mountains Trek, Sapa Ethnic Village & Rice Terrace

North of Sapa your main attractions would be Indo Chinah’s stunning rice terraces and a chance to experience a trek through the villages of still fairly isolated ethnic minorities. This one calls for a trek in order to discover astonishing views and distinctive cultural heritage.

Timing: Best from September to November.
Time Taken: 1-2 days.
Cost: $30-$50 for guided treks.
Address: Sapa, Lao Cai Province, Vietnam.

5. Visit Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels situated near Ho Chi Minh City will give the visitors an insight of the kind of tunnels that were used during the Vietnam war. Be introduced to history, study their strategies and take a look at the actual narrow tunnel used for survival, intelligence, and combat.

Timing: Best early morning.
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: Entry fee approx. $6, guided tours around $25.
Address: Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

6. Take a Street Food Tour in Hanoi

Hanoi has a lot of good things to offer to food lovers and a trip to the city’s street food stalls is not to be missed. For locals, one should try some of the Vietnam favorites, such as pho – noodle soup, banh mi – Vietnamese sandwich, egg and coffee while strolling through the central streets.

Timing: Evening (5 PM onwards).
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: $20-$30 per person.
Address: Hanoi Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam.

7. Relax on Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is a beautiful island that boasts beautiful sandy shores, clear waters, and a colourful coral barrier reef. For recreational purposes, it is ideal especially for anyone in search of the sun, sea, sand, and water sports including snorkeling, diving or Island hopping among others.

Timing: November to March for the best weather.
Time Taken: 2-3 days.
Cost: Free beaches, $20-$50 for water activities.
Address: Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam.

8. Visit the Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta refers to a system of river, swamp, and island in the south region of Vietnam. If you choose the boat ride here, it will take you through several floating markets, traditional villages, and beautiful countryside, making you see how life is in the region.

Timing: Early morning for markets.
Time Taken: Day trip.
Cost: $20-$50 for boat tours.
Address: Southern Vietnam (Can Tho or My Tho as main access points).

9. Climb the Marble Mountains

Vietnam’s Marble Mountain is a complex of five marble and limestone hills lying south of Da Nang. It has become a major tourist attraction for its natural beauty and archeological sites. Each mountain is named after the five elements: Kim (Metal), Thuy (Water), Moc (Wood), Hoa (Fire), and Tho (Earth). The site also includes a cave system and the tunnels and temples, of which one of them is the Huyen Khong Cave which is often used by Buddhists for prayers. Stroll up for arial view and spend some moments in the ancient buddhist temples.

There are either pathways up the mountains that offer city or coastal views or a lift going up the mountains of Da Nang. Beautiful caves, ancient pagodas, Budda images, and fascinating rocks will help visitors to have an idea about the history of Vietnam.

Timing: Best in the morning.
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: Entry fee approx. $2.
Address: Da Nang, Vietnam.

10. Stroll Round Hanoi Old Quarter Street

Old Quarter of Hanoi is a site that comprises long and narrow streets with a blend of side-walk built in colonial architectural designs and shops that fringe markets. Spend the day visiting such key places within this historical district as temples among other attractions.

Timing: All day, evenings for night market.
Time Taken: Half to full day.
Cost: Free to explore.
Address: Hanoi Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam.

11. Take a Boat Ride in Tam Coc

Tam Coc of Ninh Binh is called “Halong bay on land,” where you can visit by boat through rice fields and limestone mountains as well as stilt houses and caves. It is very beautiful and enjoying the ride is actually rather tranquil.

Timing: Morning or late afternoon.
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: Approx. $9 per boat ride.
Address: Tam Coc, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam.

12. Explore the Caves in Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park

Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is in central Vietnam, and consists of impressive karst mountain, diverse foliage and large, complex cave systems and has world heritage site status. Measuring over 1,000 km it houses some of the largest and most magnificent caves in the entire world, such as Son Doong Cave. There are other interesting caves such as Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son Cave, and Paradise Cave which have amazed tourists because of its formations of stalactites and stalagmites.

The park offers guided tours that take visitors in enormous caves, most of which are largely uncharted. It also preserves many plants and animals as well as is home to a number of endangered species of plants and animals. Nature enthusiasts would be able to go hiking, walk in the park, enjoy boat riding, as well as come across with caving adventures. For anyone visiting Vietnam, visiting Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is one of the best things to do in Vietnam because of the amount of grass root adventures that come with the beauty of nature.

Timing: All year round.
Time Taken: 1-2 days.
Cost: Entry fee $12, cave tours $35+.
Address: Phong Nha, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam.

13. Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island, one of the 1,969 islands of Ha Long Bay, is characterized by steep cliffs, lovely beaches and tracks. These offer everything a nature lover would want, with an option of kaying, hiking and enjoying the natural sceneries.

Timing: Best from September to November.
Time Taken: 1-2 days.
Cost: Free beaches, $15 for kayak rentals.
Address: Cat Ba Island, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.

14. War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City focuses on the Vietnam War and tells visitors the story which often can be quite interesting. There are strong display compositions based on photographs, army items, and narrations of people on how the war affected the country. War is explained in this museum in a real view because visitors are presented with the effects of the war and the chemical agents used. It also tells about the impact of the war on civilians during the war and after. Among the standout features are the outdoor displays featuring military equipment like a Huey helicopter, artillery pieces, and even a prison complex used during the war.

It is one of the largest museums in Vietnam where a visitor feels the sorrowful history of a country. The major focus of all the displays at the museum is to help people put themselves in the shoes of the Vietnamese people and get a richer perspective of the war’s consequences. The museum contains a range of displays, including war photographs, military equipment, and a collection of items from the war era such as helicopters, tanks, and bombs.

Timing: Morning (8 AM to 5 PM).
Time Taken: 1-2 hours.
Cost: Entry fee approx. $2.
Address: 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

15. Relax at Bai Tu Long Bay

Although Halong Bay is recognized more, Bai Tu Long Bay is not less beautiful and less stunning as Halong Bay. Sail slowly through the smooth waters of the sea, explore the delightful past caves and take beautiful, unobstructed photos.

Timing: Best in October to April.
Time Taken: Day trips or overnight cruises.
Cost: $50-$150 per person.
Address: Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam.

16. Go Kayaking in Ha Long Bay

The best way to closely explore the wonder of Ha Long Bay is by kayaking among the limestone karsts and the caves, enjoying the serene greenery of the natural world heritage site. It is famous for the emerald waters and swallow-shaped limestone karsts allows one to afford getting closer to the scenic beauty. Visitors can witness the magnificent rocks, natural crevices, and fishing islands in the placid waters.

Most tours also offer instructions on kayaking and enable participants to paddle to the hidden caves, the spectacular Sung Sot grotto or take a kayak to reach Ti Top Island to enjoy a bird’s eye view over the sea. Kayaking is an interesting method of travelling and sightseeing in Halong Bay as it is very enjoyable and challenging at the same time. It is a good place to consider this attraction regardless of whether you’re a core kayak or simply a beginner.

Timing: Best during the dry season (October-April).
Time Taken: 1-2 hours.
Cost: Approx. $5-$10 per hour.
Address: Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam.

17. The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon Trip

Of course, it is a well-known structure in Ho Chi Minh City having a distinctive French colonial touch. This one is one of the most famous structures in Vietnam and it will be very interesting to visit for those who are enthusiastic about architecture.

The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, located in Ho Chi Minh City, is a 19th century neo-Romanesque constructed by the French colonists. Its red-brick exterior, twin bell turrets and beautiful stained glass are still a reminder of the colonial period in the city. The interior can be rather calming, visitors can check out the huge altar and high arches, or go through the spiritual motion to partake in the Mass. The Statue of Virgin Mary, located outside the basilica, is also the point of interest for both historians and lovers of architecture.

Timing: Morning to afternoon.
Time Taken: 1 hour.
Cost: Free entry.
Address: Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

18. Scooter Riding in Ho Chi Minh City

Like many other cities of Vietnam, especially the major ones, taking a scooter ride through Ho Chi Minh City can really be an adventurous ride. Just as you can bike, you can also take a scooter at a rented one or with the help of a local guide go around the city markets, parks and other tourist attractions.

Timing: Anytime.
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: $5-$10 for rentals or local guides.
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

19. Discover Can Tho’s Floating Markets

Another specialty is that some markets in Can Tho located in the Mekong Delta, float on water. Here one has a spectacle of trading where people sell their items from boats which gives the beautiful scene of the market. Visiting these markets via a boat is therefore a great way to feel the culture of the society.

Timing: Early morning (6 AM to 9 AM).
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: $20-$40 for boat tour.
Address: Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam.

20. Enjoy the View with Ba Na Hills

There is nothing more spectacular than Ba Na Hills, near Da Nang. One of the most fascinating attractions of Ba Na Hills is the Golden Bridge – an awesome pedestrian cable bridge featuring the support of enormous stone hands. It rises high among frontier mountains and through forests.

To get to the top, tourists are able to use one of the longest Cable car rides in the world offering fantastic views of the area. There are other destinations available near the top such as Fantasy Park, an amusement park based on rides and games and Linh Ung Pagoda with the largest statue of Buddha.

It also has a cool climate like a European country and French styled buildings. Therefore nature, culture and fun are the words that best describe Ba Na Hills. It is perfect for tourists who want to have their dose of fun and vacation all in one place.

Timing: Morning to avoid crowds.
Time Taken: Half-day trip.
Cost: $35 entry fee, including cable car.
Address: Ba Na Hills, Da Nang, Vietnam.

21. Explore the Pagodas of Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh has myriads of ancient pagodas with beautiful sceneries across unknown rocky topographical terrains. One of the most popular is the Bai Dinh Pagoda complex which is one of the largest Buddhist temple complexes in Southeast Asia. It's a lookout point that commands glorious views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Time to Visit: Best from September to November.
Timing: Morning or late afternoon.
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: Free entry.
Address: Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

22. Trekking Program for Fansipan

Fansipan is situated in Sapa and this is the highest mountain of the Indochina Peninsula. Trekkers can climb the ridges to the top where you get an excellent view of other mountains. Also, there is a cable car for a quicker arrival at the top of the mountain range.

Timing: Best from September to November.
Time Taken: 1-2 days for trek, cable car available.
Cost: $10 for cable car, $40+ for trekking guide.
Address: Fansipan, Sapa, Lao Cai Province, Vietnam.

23. Explore the Ethnology Museum in Hanoi

The Ethnology Museum is one of the most interesting cultural museums in Hanoi which presents firsthand information about the ethnic people of Vietnam. Situated in Dong Kinh district of Hanoi city, it has the primary feature of collecting, exhibiting and researching on the cultural remains of the ethnic groups in Vietnam.

The museum contains a great number of ethnographic exhibits, such as the traditional Cape Viking costumes, household utensils, tools, and religious items. Through fixed and fanciful showcases, the ethnic groups’ living conditions, customs, and religious activities can be fully explained. Another advantage of the museum is the presence of numerous examples of full size copies of houses characteristic of various areas, including general arrangements and ways of life.

In the same manner, samples of the tribal homes of the Tay, H’mong and Muong have been built in the exterior of the museum. If you are interested in various cultures of Vietnam – then the Ethnology Museum is a must-visit place to get a deep insight into the multi-faceted and spectral history of the country.

Timing: Open 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Time Taken: 2-3 hours.
Cost: Entry fee approx. $2.
Address: Nguyen Van Huyen, Hanoi, Vietnam.

24. Hoi An Cooking Class

For the fan of Vietnames food or local culture, visiting a cooking class of Hoi An is one of the most exciting things to do in Vietnam. Hoi An is without a doubt the ideal city to become acquainted with Vietnam-food basics. These include pho (noodle soup), banh xeo (vietnamese pancake), and rolls.

Cooking lessons normally start with a trip to shops to buy raw foods, then a practical section wherein special emphasis is placed on techniques by well-trained cooks. After cooking the food, participants can actually have a taste of the food they cooked themselves. It is more than just a cultural adventure.

Timing: Morning or afternoon sessions.
Time Taken: 2-4 hours.
Cost: $30-$40 per person.
Address: Hoi An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.

25. Visit the Vinpearl Land Amusement Park

Lying in the heart of Hon Tre Island, Vinpearl Land is the ultimate fun factory with rollercoasters, water parks, Vietnam’s biggest aquarium and more. It can be said it is a wonderful place for families who are looking for fun and interesting events.

Timing: Open daily 8 AM to 8 PM.
Time Taken: Full day.
Cost: Entry fee approx. $25.
Address: Hon Tre Island, Nha Trang, Vietnam.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

November to April: Warm with a shortage of rain – it’s the best time to travel to cities and beaches.

May to October: Wet season with rainfall every now and then, fewer visitors and better vegetative cover.

FAQs

Is Vietnam cheap or expensive?

Vietnam is generally considered an affordable travel destination. The cost of living is low, meaning accommodation, food, and transportation are inexpensive, especially if you stick to street food, budget hotels, and public transportation. For budget travelers, daily expenses can range from $30 to $50, while mid-range travelers might spend between $50 and $100 a day. Those opting for luxury experiences could see daily costs exceed $100. While Vietnam offers budget-friendly options, there are also high-end experiences such as luxury hotels and cruises that can increase your spending.

Is 7 days enough for Vietnam?

Yes, 7 days can be enough to explore some of Vietnam’s highlights, but it requires careful planning. With a week, you can cover key cities and attractions. A typical itinerary might include spending two days in Hanoi, followed by a two-day cruise on Ha Long Bay, and then flying to central Vietnam for a couple of days in Hoi An. Alternatively, you could focus on the southern part of the country with visits to Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Mekong Delta. While 7 days will give you a taste of Vietnam, a longer trip is recommended for a more comprehensive experience of the country’s diverse landscapes and culture.

What is the No. 1 tourist spot in Vietnam?

The number one tourist spot in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its emerald waters and limestone karst formations. It is a must-visit for its stunning natural beauty, and visitors can enjoy activities like boat cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves. Whether you take a day trip or spend a night on a boat, Ha Long Bay offers a magical experience that showcases Vietnam’s breathtaking coastal scenery.

Where should I go for the first time in Vietnam?

For first-time visitors to Vietnam, Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City are the best starting points. If you're interested in history and culture, Hanoi is an ideal choice with its French colonial architecture, historical landmarks like Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, and vibrant Old Quarter. You can also visit nearby attractions like Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh. On the other hand, if you prefer a bustling, modern city with a mix of historical sites and a vibrant nightlife, Ho Chi Minh City is perfect. Both cities offer a rich introduction to Vietnam’s culture, history, and lifestyle.

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