24/01/2024
12 BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM IN 2024
If you’re looking for a destination that offers a fascinating blend of adventure, history, and scenic beauty, Vietnam is the place to be. It’s unlike any other destination, and you’ll be amazed by the variety of experiences it has to offer. From exploring the country’s rich history to enjoying its natural wonders, Vietnam has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for an adventure in Southeast Asia that blends the past and present, Vietnam is the perfect destination for you. With so many things to do and see, you could easily spend two months exploring the countryside. Spending 30 days in Vietnam, and even that was barely enough time to see everything this diverse nation has to offer.
Be it the mesmerizing views of Sapa and Ha Long, the fascinating history of Cu Chi Tunnels, or the busier hubs of Hanoi, Vietnam will “WOW” the adventurous spirit in you. Here are our favorite things to do in Vietnam.
On the way from Southern Vietnam to the North, starting from the border of Cambodia, Vietnam has some amazing sites to see. From beautiful natural wonders to fantastic shopping, mountain adventures, and chill-out beach life, Vietnam has something to offer for everyone.
The list of things to do in Vietnam is endless, and you could visit Vietnam again and again. But this guide will help you plan the must-see attractions and top places to visit in Vietnam.
1. Visit Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a natural wonder located in the South China Sea, where thousands of islands jut out of the turquoise water, creating a never-ending horizon of mountains. Taking a boat tour of Vietnam is like entering a mythical world of emerald waters and towering karst formations that dot the horizon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and is a top highlight for any Vietnam itinerary. You can book your 2-day cruise.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/2-night-ultra-luxe-on-the-hera-halong-bay-cruise/
While exploring Halong Bay, you can kayak through hidden lagoons, explore magnificent caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung, or even find a secluded cove for a swim. Halong Bay is one of the top things to do in Vietnam, and it was our most memorable experience. You can explore the labyrinth on a small teak cabin cruiser, where you had your private bunk and were treated to a feast. Sleeping in the bay surrounded by these sleeping giants while looking into the clear night sky is a unique experience.
If you want to play golf and visit Halong Bay in the same vacation, you can attend our tour: 7 Day Hanoi Golf Tour And Halong Bay.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/7-day-hanoi-golf-tour-and-halong-bay/
2. Sapa
Trekking through the high rice terraces near a mountain town near the Chinese border in Sapa is like walking through a postcard. The jaw-dropping mountain scenery will take your breath away in more ways than one.
During the three-day trek, you can stay with the hill tribes and visit ethnic minority villages of the Hmong, Red Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho Peoples. The beauty of this rugged land is overwhelming, and every corner will turn left you more amazed.
Giant terraces filled with water glistened in the sun for as far as you could see. Water buffalo grazed in the fields, and villagers dressed in traditional handmade clothing greeted you as you walked along the path.
The villagers live by the old ways here. They harness water from the mountain to use as irrigation, they hand weave their material, and they grow their rice. They are a people truly at one with the land. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you might want to check out this highly-rated two-day trek to a homestay in Sapa.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/marvellous-sapa-travelling-tour/
3. Rice Fields Of Tam Coc
Tam Coc is a hidden gem in Vietnam’s picturesque Ninh Binh province, often referred to as the ‘Halong Bay on Land’. It’s a dreamy landscape of lush green rice fields surrounded by towering limestone karsts, best explored by a leisurely boat ride along the Ngo D**g River. If you want to visit Tam Coc and Halong on the same tour, you can consider our tours at: An exceptional encounter in Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/an-exceptional-encounter-in-ninh-binh-ha-long-bay-5d4n/
As you glide through the water, you’ll be captivated by the tranquil beauty of the rice paddies, with local farmers tending to their fields and the majestic hills providing a stunning backdrop. Each season brings a different hue to the fields, from emerald green in the spring to golden yellow during harvest time.
Tam Coc isn’t just about the scenery; it’s a place to connect with the peaceful rhythm of rural Vietnamese life. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the natural beauty here is simply photogenic. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just someone seeking a serene escape, the Rice Fields of Tam Coc promise an experience that’s both soothing and visually spectacular, making it a top pick for your Vietnam itinerary.
4. Hanoi
Hanoi is a bustling city that can be overwhelming at times, and even crossing the street can be an adventure. You can sit on a second-floor terrace watching people take their lives in their hands as they cross the road at a busy intersection like a game of Frogger. It was hours of amusement.
While in Hanoi, you can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum honoring Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern Vietnam. Other must-see attractions include the Magical Water Puppet Show, which continues a thousand-year-old tradition, and the Temple of Literature. You must also sample Vietnamese food on a food tour of Hanoi. This highly rated Street Food Tour takes you on a walk through the old quarter of Hanoi with a local guide. If you would line to have a tour to combine playing golf, visiting Hanoi and Halong in 7 days, the good tour is 7 Day Hanoi Golf Tour And Halong Bay.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/7-day-hanoi-golf-tour-and-halong-bay/
You can explore Hanoi’s sights, eat French baguettes, and sip lattes on Hoan Kiem Lake. This is a great place to escape the hectic pace of the city. Hanoi has a rich French colonial past; to see it, you must explore Hanoi’s old quarter.
A great option is to combine a Street food and Water Puppet Show Combo. You’ll get to sample delicious Vietnamese food, learn about Hanoi’s unique food culture, enjoy the night view of Hoan Kiem Lake, and finish off with the water puppet show.
5. Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling city with markets, food stalls, and nightclubs. It’s where our Vietnam adventure began, and it was an eye-opener of a first stop. With a population of 7 million people, Ho Chi Minh City is the heart of Vietnamese nightlife, with karaoke bars, nightclubs, and many places offering cheap beer and cocktails.
Trishaw drivers won’t take no for an answer as they follow you down the street looking to make their fare. Shopping is the main priority, and dodging touts is a full-time job.
The city has French colonial buildings mixed with neon lights and skyscrapers. The most popular tourist attractions are probably the Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, and Binh and Tay Market. If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, you might want to check out our tours:
+ 1-Day Sai Gon City Tour: https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/sai-gon-city-tour/
+ Saigon Golf Holiday: https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/saigon-golf-holiday/
+ 7-Day Introduction Of Saigon And Mekong Delta: https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/tours-7-day-introduction-of-saigon-and-mekong-delta-html/
6. The Cu Chi Tunnels
If you’re looking for an amazing day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-visit. You can experience what the Viet Cong soldiers and fighters went through living life underground during the war by booking this highly-rated tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels: https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/tours-7-day-introduction-of-saigon-and-mekong-delta-html/
Agent Orange, na**lm, and constant bombing wiped out the jungle during the Vietnam War, but it is now lush and green and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. You can watch a video inside the Cu Chi Tunnels to see what it was like to live underground during the war.
Our guide showed us how the Vietnamese would escape in the jungle and camouflage the entrances with termite hills. You can see that sandals made from automobile tires to avoid jungle rot. And you can learn how they wore checkered scarves to announce that they were fighting for the North and how farmers snuck food to soldiers.
7. Cruise The Mekong Delta
The Mekong River is a massive river spanning 4,500 km of diverse wildlife and incredible views, starting in China and flowing through Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam before ending at the Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. One of the best things to do in Vietnam is to book a tour of the Mekong Delta to see its floating markets. Along the way, you will find floating markets selling local produce and everything from fruit and vegetables to conical hats and fake clothing, unlike the markets in Ho Chi Minh City.
At small factories, you can learn how to make coconut candy and rice paper, being offered a taste to entice you into buying a souvenir. It is a little contrived at times as they try very hard to make you purchase something, but the scenery is incredible, and watching local life unfold is fascinating.
If you want to visit the Mekong Delta, you can book a full-day Mekong Delta Tour, including a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Our tour is 7 Day Introduction Of Saigon And Mekong Delta.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/tours-7-day-introduction-of-saigon-and-mekong-delta-html/
Tour companies in Ho Chi Minh City offer great package deals fighting for tourist dollars to all destinations. Life remains unchanged in the Cu Chi Tunnels as farmers still bring their produce to the floating market, and people still wash their clothes by hand on its banks.
8. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island is a part of the Vietnamese territory, although it is closer to Cambodia than Vietnam. When you are in Vietnam, it is a little off the beaten path and reserved for backpackers, but it has gained status thanks to its gorgeous beaches, crystal clear waters, and fantastic nightlife. There are plenty of things to do in Phu Quoc, including high-end resorts that offer jet skiing, scuba diving, fishing, and personal boat hire. It has acquired a bit of legendary status with backpackers in Vietnam due to its stunning beaches, clear seas, and great bars. If you’re planning a trip to Phu Quoc Island, you might want to check out this tour 7 Day Saigon To Phu Quoc Island: Luxury River & Sea Journey.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/tours-7-day-saigon-to-phu-quoc-island-luxury-river-sea-journey-html/
9. Hoi An
Hoi An is an ancient town that has been luring visitors to its ancient buildings along the Thu Bon River for over a thousand years. The river has been attracting traders from the South China Sea for centuries. This ancient town is a blend of Asian and colonial architecture with sidewalk cafés and cobblestone streets.
If you happen to be in Hoi An during the Vietnamese New Year (Tet Festival), you will witness thousands of lanterns lining the roads with our tour: 1-day Hoi An Ancient City Tour.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/hoi-an-ancient-city-tour/
Hoi An is truly a photographer’s dream with photo opportunities of the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Lantern Festival, and the contrast between Chinese tube houses and French colonial buildings
Hoi An is a favorite of many travelers to Vietnam who want to have some tailor-made clothes whipped up in a matter of hours! Choosing a shop can be difficult. If you’re planning to get tailor-made clothes in Hoi An, you might want to check out this beginner’s guide to tailor-made clothing in Hoi An.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/hoi-an-ancient-city-tour/
10. Mud Bath In Nha Trang
Nha Trang is known as the city with the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam with an endless coastline.
If you only had one day in Nha Trang, where would you go and what would you do? That is also the question that many visitors to Nha Trang wonder. Below are some suggestions of the places worth visiting for 1-day Nha Trang tours for you to refer to and choose from. To explore and experience this stunning Tour, let’s find out with Active Asia Travel and our tour: 1-day Nha Trang Tour - Marvellous Beaches Tour.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/nha-trang-tour-marvellous-beaches-tour/
You can take a day to visit the Thap Ba Hot Springs where you took a dip in the mud baths to bask in its cool medicinal mud. There’s a therapeutic mineral waterfall, hydrotherapy, and a swimming pool. All of our travel-weary bones and muscles were treated to a relaxing day of pampering and nurturing, preparing us for the days to come. The mud baths are an affordable spa day and a unique experience.
11. Imperial City Of Hue
Hue is located in Central Vietnam and is a treasure trove of history and culture, making it a must-visit for anyone touring Vietnam. This ancient city, once the imperial capital, is home to the stunning Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s like stepping back in time.
Walking through the sprawling complex of temples, pavilions, and museums, you’ll get a real sense of Vietnam’s royal past. Here, you’ll find the tombs of the Ancient emperors. The Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Vietnam’s answer to China’s Forbidden City. The walled fortress was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945.
But there’s more to Hue than just its historical sites. The city is also famous for its unique Vietnamese cuisine, offering dishes you won’t find anywhere else in the country – think rich, flavorful broths and delicately crafted bites.
Plus, the serene Perfume River adds a picturesque charm to the city, perfect for a leisurely boat ride or evening stroll along its banks. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to explore a less-traveled path, Hue has something special to offer: 1 day Hue Ancient Capital Tour.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/hue-ancient-capital-tour/
12. Caves Of Phong Nha
If you have time to plan and some deep pockets, the caves of Phong Nha are a must-visit. Hang Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, and there is a long waiting list to see it! Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site can be visited on a day trip or an expedition of up to 5 days.
Discovered in 2009 in the Quang Binh province, this massive cave boasts sections up to 200 meters high and 150 meters wide, complete with its weather system and unique ecosystem. The journey to Son Doong Cave is a multi-day trek, usually spanning 4 to 5 days, and involves hiking, camping, river crossings, and navigating the rugged terrain of the national park.
There are other caves in Phong Nha besides Son Doong, so if you don’t have the money or time to spare, you can also check out Hang En Cave, Tu Lan Cave System, Hang Tien Cave, Hang Va Cave, and Nuoc Nut Cave.
All tours are conducted by licensed tour operators with experienced guides to ensure safety and minimal environmental impact. The tours often involve local porters and guides, providing economic benefits to the community and promoting sustainable tourism.
If you do not have a license to get to Phong Nha Cave, you can get another tour to visit Phong Nha Nation Park and many sightseeing places in Vietnam during 15 days: 15 Days Vietnam Heritage Tour.
https://activeasiatravel.com/tours/15-days-vietnam-heritage-tour/
—----
Created by Active Asia Travel, https://www.activeasiatravel.com
