Best Things To Do In Vietnam: The Complete Guide

1. Explore the Bustling Streets of Hanoi

Old Quarter

Hanoi's Old Quarter is a bustling area filled with narrow streets, each named after the goods historically sold there. Wander through this vibrant maze and discover local markets, street food stalls, and traditional shops. Don't miss trying iconic Vietnamese street food like pho and banh mi.

Hoan Kiem Lake

A peaceful escape in the heart of the city, Hoan Kiem Lake is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The lake is home to the Ngoc Son Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Confucian and Taoist philosophers. Early morning is a great time to visit and witness locals practicing Tai Chi.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Visit the resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is a significant historical site and a place of great reverence for the Vietnamese people. Nearby, you can explore the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House.

2. Cruise the Stunning Ha Long Bay

Overnight Cruise

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its emerald waters and limestone karsts. An overnight cruise is the best way to experience this natural wonder. Enjoy kayaking, cave exploring, and delicious seafood onboard.

Cat Ba Island

Part of the Ha Long Bay archipelago, Cat Ba Island is a great destination for adventure enthusiasts. Hike through Cat Ba National Park, explore hidden beaches, and take a boat tour to discover less crowded parts of the bay.

3. Discover the Charm of Hoi An

Ancient Town

Hoi An is a beautifully preserved ancient town known for its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and tailor shops. Stroll through the narrow alleys, visit traditional houses, and enjoy the nightly lantern festival.

Japanese Covered Bridge

One of Hoi An's most iconic landmarks, the Japanese Covered Bridge, dates back to the 18th century. This picturesque bridge is a symbol of Hoi An and offers great photo opportunities.

My Son Sanctuary

A short drive from Hoi An, the My Son Sanctuary is a cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa kings. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's ancient history.

4. Experience the Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market

One of Ho Chi Minh City's most famous landmarks, Ben Thanh Market is a bustling place where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. It's a great spot to experience local life and try traditional Vietnamese dishes.

War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum offers a sobering look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. Exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and military equipment, providing a deep understanding of the country's history.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Located just outside the city, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Take a guided tour to learn about their history and even crawl through some of the tunnels yourself.

5. Enjoy the Beaches of Da Nang

My Khe Beach

Known for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters, My Khe Beach in Da Nang is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. It's also close to many luxury resorts and beachfront restaurants.

Marble Mountains

A cluster of five marble and limestone hills, the Marble Mountains are home to caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Da Nang and the surrounding area.

Dragon Bridge

At night, the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang lights up and breathes fire and water. It's a spectacular sight and a great example of the city's modern development.

6. Trek Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Ta Van Village

Located in the Muong Hoa Valley, Ta Van Village is home to the Dzay ethnic minority. Stay in a homestay and experience local culture, trek through terraced rice fields, and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.

Fansipan Mountain

Known as the "Roof of Indochina," Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam. You can take a cable car to the summit or, for the more adventurous, embark on a challenging trek to the top.

7. Visit the Imperial City of Hue

Imperial Citadel

The Imperial Citadel in Hue is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant historical landmark. Explore the palaces, temples, and gates within the citadel and learn about the Nguyen Dynasty.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Overlooking the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Vietnam. Its seven-story tower is an iconic symbol of Hue.

Tombs of the Emperors

Hue is home to several royal tombs, each with unique architecture and beautiful landscapes. Notable tombs include those of Emperors Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, and Minh Mang.

8. Explore the Mekong Delta

Cai Rang Floating Market

Located in Can Tho, the Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the largest in the Mekong Delta. Visit early in the morning to see boats loaded with fresh produce and other goods, creating a vibrant and colorful scene.

Ben Tre

Known for its coconut plantations, Ben Tre offers a peaceful escape with boat tours through the delta's narrow canals. Visit local workshops and try fresh coconut products.

9. Relax on the Island of Phu Quoc

Long Beach

Phu Quoc's Long Beach is famous for its golden sands and clear waters. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the stunning sunsets.

Phu Quoc National Park

Explore the island's natural beauty by hiking through Phu Quoc National Park. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, with trails leading to waterfalls and viewpoints.

Night Market

Phu Quoc's Night Market is a bustling place to sample local seafood, shop for souvenirs, and experience the island's vibrant nightlife.

Best Temples in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to many beautiful and historic temples, each offering a unique insight into the country's spiritual heritage. Here are some of the best temples in Vietnam:

Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong)

Located in the limestone mountains near Hanoi, the Perfume Pagoda is a complex of Buddhist temples and shrines. The journey to the pagoda includes a scenic boat ride and a hike or cable car ride to the main cave temple.

One Pillar Pagoda

One of Hanoi's most iconic landmarks, the One Pillar Pagoda is a small but unique temple built on a single stone pillar. It is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy and is a symbol of Hanoi.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Situated in Ninh Binh Province, Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest temple complex in Vietnam. It features impressive architecture, including the largest bronze Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, and offers stunning views of the surrounding karst landscape.

Thien Hau Temple

Located in Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown, Thien Hau Temple is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. The temple is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and statues, making it a fascinating place to visit.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Situated on an islet in West Lake, Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam. Its serene setting and historical significance make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Cao Dai Temple

Located in Tay Ninh, the Cao Dai Temple is the center of the Cao Dai religion, which combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity. The temple's colorful architecture and unique religious ceremonies are a sight to behold.

Culinary Delights: Must-Try Foods in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its freshness, vibrant flavors, and use of herbs and spices. Here are some must-try dishes during your visit to Vietnam:

Pho

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken. It's a staple of Vietnamese cuisine and a must-try for any visitor.

Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that combines French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. It typically includes a crispy baguette filled with various ingredients such as pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Bun Cha

A Hanoi specialty, Bun Cha consists of grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that is beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Goi Cuon

Also known as fresh spring rolls, Goi Cuon are made with rice paper and filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs. They are served with a flavorful dipping sauce and make a light and refreshing snack.

Cao Lau

A specialty of Hoi An, Cao Lau is a noodle dish made with thick rice noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers. The dish is unique to Hoi An due to the water used in its preparation, which is drawn from ancient Cham wells.

Practical Tips for Traveling in Vietnam

Visa and Entry Requirements

Before traveling to Vietnam, check the visa requirements for your country. Many nationalities can apply for an e-visa online, which allows for a 30-day stay.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vietnam varies depending on the region. The north is best visited from October to April, while the south is ideal from November to April. Central Vietnam is best visited from February to August.

Currency and Payments

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions and in rural areas.

Transportation

Vietnam has an extensive transportation network, including buses, trains, and domestic flights. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also convenient options for getting around cities.

Conclusion

Vietnam is a diverse and enchanting country that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. From exploring bustling cities and ancient towns to relaxing on pristine beaches and trekking through stunning landscapes, there are countless best things to do in Vietnam. Don't forget to visit some of the best temples in Vietnam to gain insight into the country's rich spiritual heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Vietnam has something to offer everyone. Start planning your trip today and embark on a journey of discovery in this beautiful and captivating country.