TOP 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM 

Vietnam is a diverse and colorful country, where every journey brings unexpected discoveries. From the ancient streets of Hoi An, the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang, to Sapa’s green terraced rice fields and Ha Long Bay’s mysterious beauty – each destination is a unique journey. Explore the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam and prepare for an unforgettable adventure, filled with wonderful memories and emotions! From fun activities, highlight destinations, to delicious culinary specialties, this list will help you plan a colorful and unforgettable trip where every moment counts. of a wonderful journey of discovery.

1. Cruise through Ha Long Bay

When exploring the list of top 15 best things to do in Vietnam, a cruise in Ha Long Bay is a must-do. Ha Long Bay, recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage, stands out with its majestic natural landscape, including thousands of large and small limestone islands undulating in the emerald green water. This is an ideal destination for you to enjoy the perfect combination of nature and relaxation.

Cruising in Ha Long Bay offers you a great opportunity to admire the undulating limestone mountains, beautiful islets and fascinating caves. You will relax on the deck, enjoy a delicious dinner with fresh seafood dishes, and watch the beautiful sunset over the sea.

The cruise not only helps you enjoy the beauty of the bay but also offers exciting activities such as kayaking, swimming, and visiting famous caves such as Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave. In particular, you can join cooking classes to learn how to prepare local specialties or join the evening entertainment programs on board.

2. Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter, the heart of Vietnam’s capital, is a rich and colorful historical area. Located in the heart of the city, the Old Quarter is not only an ideal destination for those who love to explore culture and history but also a place to enjoy unique experiences of urban life.

Hanoi Old Quarter is known for its architectural works from the 15th to 19th centuries, with narrow and tall ancient houses, traditional shops and temples bearing the imprint of many different cultures. The houses with yellow facades, wooden doors and red tiled roofs create an attractive and unique space. The streets in the Old Quarter are often narrow and paved with bricks, creating a pleasant space to walk and explore. Here, you can find shops selling handicrafts, silk, souvenirs and cafes and restaurants serving local specialties.

Hanoi Old Quarter is a culinary paradise with many famous specialties such as pho, bun cha, banh cuon and cha ca. Small and lovely eateries located along the streets give you the opportunity to enjoy delicious dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.

Hanoi Old Quarter is a destination not to be missed in the journey to explore the capital, where every corner of the street brings unique historical and cultural stories. From enjoying street food to strolling through the narrow streets, you will have a rich and interesting experience when exploring this Old Quarter. This is a must-try experience in the list of top 15 best things to do in Vietnam, helping you understand more about the unique beauty of Hanoi.

3. Discover the Ancient Town of Hoi An

When you plan your trip to Vietnam, exploring Hoi An ancient town is definitely one of the must-do experiences in the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam. Hoi An, with its nostalgic beauty and unique architectural style, has become an ideal destination for those who love culture and history. 

Hoi An ancient town is famous for its ancient houses that have been preserved almost intact from the 15th to the 19th century. The narrow streets, old houses with yellow facades, wooden doors and red tiled roofs create a vivid and colorful picture. This is the ideal place to clearly feel the combination of Vietnamese culture and the influences of international trade. Hoi An ancient town is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, where you can stroll on the narrow streets, visit the shops selling handicrafts, silk and souvenirs. The peaceful atmosphere, cute cafes and restaurants serving local specialties will enrich your experience.

When exploring Hoi An ancient town, don’t forget to enjoy famous specialties such as Cao Lau, Hoi An bread and Quang noodles. The small eateries lining the streets offer great food, giving you the opportunity to experience the fascinating local cuisine.

Exploring Hoi An ancient town not only helps you experience the ancient beauty and rich culture of the city, but is also an important part of the list of top 15 best things to do in Vietnam. This is an ideal destination for you to create memorable memories and learn more about the history and culture of Vietnam.

4. Trek through the Rice Terraces in Sapa

When you explore the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam, you cannot miss the experience of trekking through the rice fields in Sapa. Sapa, famous for its majestic natural landscape and diverse culture of ethnic minorities, offers you a wonderful trekking journey among the green terraced rice fields.

Sapa stands out with terraced rice fields stretching across the mountain slopes, creating an impressive natural picture. When trekking through the rice fields, you will admire the beauty of the green terraces, immerse yourself in the peaceful space and enjoy the fresh air of the mountains and forests. During the trekking journey, you will have the opportunity to meet and chat with ethnic minorities such as H’mong, Dao, and Tay. You can learn about their customs, rice cultivation methods and traditional agricultural activities, creating a deep and interesting cultural experience.

Trekking through the rice fields in Sapa is not only a sport but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in nature, learn about local culture and create memorable memories. This is one of the experiences not to be missed in Vietnam, bringing you moments of relaxation and meaningful discovery.

5. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City

When exploring the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam, visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is an experience not to be missed. The Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, are an important and fascinating historical site that offers an insight into Vietnam’s war against the US.

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a vast network of underground tunnels, built in the 1940s and expanded throughout the war. The tunnel system includes bedrooms, kitchens, weapons depots, and living areas, showing the ingenuity and determination of the Vietnamese army and people during the war.

The Cu Chi Tunnels are not only a historical site but also a living museum where you can learn about war tactics, life during the war, and the extraordinary efforts of the people in resisting the invaders. Experienced guides will provide you with detailed and interesting information about this relic. The ideal time to visit Cu Chi Tunnels is from November to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, the tunnels are open all year round, so you can plan your visit whenever is convenient for you.

Visiting Cu Chi Tunnels not only gives you an insight into history and war, but also gives you an opportunity to learn more about the resilience and sacrifice of the Vietnamese people. This is one of the must-see destinations in the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam, promising to bring you memorable and meaningful experiences.

6. Cruise the Mekong Delta

When you are looking for the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam, a Mekong Delta cruise is a great option to explore the beauty and richness of the Mekong Delta. This land, with its intricate canal system and beautiful natural landscapes, is the ideal place to enjoy a relaxing and adventurous cruise.

Cruising on the rivers and canals of the Mekong Delta, you will admire the rich and diverse natural scenery. Cruise routes often take you through green fields, fruit orchards, and traditional craft villages, providing an insight into rural life in Vietnam. During the cruise, you have the opportunity to meet and chat with local people. You can learn about the culture, customs, and lifestyle of the communities in the Mekong Delta. Stops often include floating markets, traditional craft villages, and agricultural production areas.

An integral part of the Mekong Delta cruise experience is enjoying the local cuisine. You can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes prepared right on board or at the stopover areas. This is a great opportunity for you to enjoy the natural beauty, explore the local culture, and relax on the tranquil rivers, creating memorable memories of your trip.

7. Visit the Imperial City of Hue

Hue is one of the most important historical destinations in Vietnam, ranked in the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Hue is famous for its system of palaces, temples and tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. When coming here, you can explore the Hue Royal Palace, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb, all of which are imbued with the rich culture and history of this land.

In addition to admiring historical relics, Hue also offers you the opportunity to experience its unique culture and cuisine. The city is famous for traditional dishes such as Hue beef noodle soup, mussel rice, and banh beo. Enjoying these dishes at local eateries or in the ancient space of Hue Old Quarter will help you understand more about the culinary style and lifestyle of the people here.

Hue is not only famous for its historical relics but also for its beautiful natural landscapes. You can visit surrounding areas such as Ngu Binh Mountain, Huong River, and Lang Co Beach. These destinations not only provide opportunities for relaxation but also provide an insight into the natural beauty and environment of the area surrounding Hue.

8. Experience the Vibrant Life in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, with its fast-paced and vibrant lifestyle, is one of the top destinations in Vietnam. This city is the economic, cultural, and entertainment center of the country, where you can feel the dynamism and modernity through bustling neighborhoods, large shopping centers, and frequent cultural events.

Ho Chi Minh City is also an ideal destination for those who love cuisine. You can enjoy famous specialties such as pho, bun bo Hue, and banh mi at sidewalk eateries or luxury restaurants. Not only that, the city is also famous for its night markets, where you can explore and enjoy rich and diverse street food. The culinary experience here is an indispensable part of the journey to experience the vibrant life in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City is not only famous for its urban vitality but also for its attractive cultural and entertainment destinations. You can visit famous places such as the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Independence Palace to learn more about the city’s history and culture. In addition, entertainment areas such as water parks, cinemas, and sports centers are also interesting options for you to relax and entertain.

Experiencing the vibrant life in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam, giving you the perfect combination of urban life, rich cuisine, and cultural and entertainment activities.

9. Discover the Caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the must-see destinations in the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam. Located in Quang Binh province, this national park is famous for its majestic cave system, lush green primeval forests, and majestic limestone mountains. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this place offers great opportunities for you to explore unique natural landscapes and feel the pristine beauty of the mountains and forests.

One of the highlights when exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the famous cave system, including Son Doong Cave, En Cave, and Phong Nha Cave. Son Doong Cave, known as the largest cave in the world, has its own distinct ecosystem and spectacular limestone structures. You can join cave exploration tours to experience the feeling of adventure and admire the natural wonders hidden underground.

In addition to cave tours, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park also offers many exciting outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and kayaking on the rivers in the area. You can also learn about the culture and customs of local communities through exchange activities and visits to traditional craft villages. These experiences not only help you understand more about local life and culture but also bring memorable memories of your trip.

10. Visit the Floating Markets in the Mekong Delta

Visiting a floating market in the Mekong Delta is a unique experience and one that cannot be missed in the top 15 best things to do in Vietnam. Floating markets, such as Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho, are an integral part of the daily lives of local people. Here, you will witness the bustling trading scene on colorful boats, with agricultural products, fresh fruits and diverse goods sold directly from the boats.

When visiting a floating market, you will not only admire the bustling trading scene but also have the opportunity to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the people in the delta. Interacting with traders and vendors will help you understand more about the customs and traditional business practices of the local people. You can also enjoy specialties right at the market, from vermicelli soup to cakes, giving you a clear view of the rich cuisine of the region.

In addition to visiting the floating markets, the Mekong Delta has many other interesting destinations for you to explore. You can join boat tours on the canals, explore traditional craft villages, and enjoy local specialties. These activities will give you a comprehensive view of the life and culture of the region, creating a rich and memorable travel itinerary.

11. Kayaking in Ha Long Bay 

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay is the most attractive activity that you cannot miss when coming to Ha Long. Immerse yourself in a kayaking experience in Ha Long Bay, where majestic natural beauty gradually appears before your eyes, bringing a true connection between nature and people. What’s more exciting than rowing a boat to see the breathtaking scenery around? Sit on a small boat, glide through paths surrounded by giant limestone blocks, explore traditional fishing villages and peaceful beaches.

This is an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Ha Long fishermen while rowing through peaceful villages such as Hoa Cuong village, Vung Vieng, Cua Van, Ba Hang and pearl farming. For these reasons, kayaking in Ha Long Bay will be the best choice for you to explore this Unesco World Heritage Site.

12. Enjoy a Water Puppet Show in Hanoi

Water puppetry is a traditional art form that offers visitors a unique insight into Vietnamese culture. Originating in the Red River Delta, this traditional art form is performed on water, with artisans standing behind the curtain and expertly controlling the puppets. The plays often depict the daily lives of Vietnamese people. 

Attending a water puppet show is one of the best things to do in Hanoi, usually held at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, where visitors can enjoy engaging and colorful performances. Water puppetry has given visitors an authentic look into Vietnamese history and culture, making it one of the must-do activities when visiting the city.

13. Enjoy street food in Ha Noi 

“What to eat in Hanoi” is certainly the question of many tourists when coming to Vietnam because cuisine Vietnam is not only a country with a unique culture but also a place with a rich and diverse cuisine. The sophistication in the way of processing and the harmonious combination of ingredients make tourists remember it forever after eating it once. Hanoi Pho attracts tourists with its soft noodles, elegant broth, green onions and herbs. Bun cha is also a must-try dish, served with pieces of marinated meat, sweet and sour sauce and many kinds of vegetables.

In addition, La Vong fish cakes also attract tourists with their crispy golden crust served with an attractive dipping sauce. It would be a mistake to walk around Hanoi’s Old Quarter without enjoying a cup of egg coffee. The rich cream layer and fragrant coffee aroma create a very special flavor that you will definitely love. Don’t forget to enjoy Hanoi street food such as bread, WestLake fried shrimp cakes or Trang Tien ice cream. 

14. Experience being a farmer in Tra Que Vegetable Village

Located not far from Hoi An, Tra Que Vegetable Village is an ideal place for those who want to immerse themselves in nature and experience the daily life of local people. Tra Que Vegetable Village is famous for its green vegetable gardens, carefully tended by real farmers. Coming here, you will witness the agricultural cultivation process, from choosing seeds, caring for plants to harvesting clean vegetable gardens.

On this journey, you will not only visit clean vegetable gardens but also have the opportunity to become a real farmer. From hoeing, sowing seeds, watering, fertilizing, every step requires meticulousness and patience. In addition, you can participate in cooking classes from the ingredients just harvested in the vegetable garden. Under the enthusiastic guidance of the tour guide, you will learn how to make traditional dishes of the central region. At the end of the journey, you will not only have useful knowledge about agriculture but also have many memorable memories in the journey to explore Vietnam.

15. Conquering Fansipan Peak

Fansipan, known as the “Roof of Indochina,” is the highest mountain in Southeast Asia with an altitude of 3,143 meters above sea level. Conquering Fansipan is a proud and exciting challenge for those who love adventure and exploration.

Starting the journey from Sapa, you will overcome various difficult roads. From narrow trails to steep slopes. On these roads, you will feel the magic of nature when witnessing the majestic scenery of Sapa with your own eyes.

The journey to conquer Fansipan is not only a challenge of physical strength and endurance, but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the wild beauty and peace of nature, while learning more about your own perseverance and determination.

When planning a trip to Vietnam, choosing the top activities and destinations is important to fully enjoy the beauty and diversity of this country. The top 15 best things to do in Vietnam not only help you explore the majestic natural wonders but also offer opportunities to experience rich culture and cuisine.

Whether you are looking for adventure, exploring nature, or want to immerse yourself in culture and cuisine, the list of top 15 best things to do in Vietnam will help you create valuable memories and make your trip perfect. Vietnam with its diverse terrain and culture promises to bring you unforgettable experiences. Wishing you a wonderful journey of discovery and memorable memories!