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Rich in diverse natural landscapes, ancient landmarks and food like no other, Vietnam invites you to step into a world of deep-rooted traditions, tantalising aromatics of chilli, ginger and lemongrass and warm hospitality. Planning your next escape? Read on to discover the best things to do in Vietnam.
The Best Things to Do in Hanoi
Vietnamese coffee and northern Vietnamese cuisine
Wake in Hanoi and try a famous Vietnamese coffee – brewed using a traditional phin filter, mixed with condensed milk, raw egg yolk or yoghurt. When hunger strikes, grab a bowl of bún chả (grilled pork and rice noodles) at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where former United States President Barrack Obama and chef Anthony Bourdain – who described Vietnam as his “place of dreams” – once delighted. Indulge in a bespoke dining experience at Cau Go Restaurant, offering panoramic skyline views and authentic northern Vietnamese cuisine like fresh spring rolls and shrimp cake. Hanoi’s largest indoor market, Dong Xuan Market is perfect for sampling street food and local produce.
Old Quarter
Filled with charming yellow buildings and lantern-lit streets, the Old Quarter is where the heart of the city beats the loudest. Famed for street food, it embraces a maze of stalls and centuries-old shophouses. Explore Train Street, a narrow and fascinating railway track that nestles through the city and blends local life and history, offering a slice of Hanoi’s charm. At night, the Old Quarter transforms into a lively hub of street performers and night markets.
A treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be explored
For an enthralling and deeply reflective experience, pay respects to Vietnam’s founding father at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where his embalmed body is preserved. To continue a day rich with history, embark on a night tour to the Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that once housed Vietnamese emperors.
Enjoy a traditional art form unique to northern Vietnam at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Puppeteers perform on water, depicting local legends and rural life. For the perfect sunset, walk to West Lake, Hanoi’s largest lake surrounded by temples, including the historic Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city.
The Best Things to Do in Ha Long Bay
Emerald waters await
There is no shortage of activities to do in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed paradise. Experience personalised boat tours through the emerald waters, kayak through hidden caves, rock climb on Mat Rong Island, snorkel and dive at Tuan Chau Island, hike trails at Cat Ba Island and unwind on sandy beaches.
Tung Sau Pearl Farm
Be sure to visit the floating Tung Sau Pearl Farm, where you can witness the fascinating pearl cultivation process, from raising oysters to harvesting pearls.
The Best Things to Do in Hoi An
Full Moon Lantern Festival
Take part in an age-old custom as thousands of glowing lanterns float along the Thu Bon River. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, expect vibrant performances and parades, release a lantern with a wish and savour street food, including the Hoi An speciality bánh bao bánh vạc (white rose dumplings), made from translucent rice flour wrappers filled with savory minced shrimp or pork, then steamed and topped with crispy shallots.
The Hoi An Night Market
Dive into a bowl of cao lầu, Hoi An’s signature noodle dish made using water from an ancient well in town, and try mango cake, a local sweet snack. A market famous for colourful silk lanterns, jewellery and tailored clothes and handicrafts, this is an unmissable spot for any traveller.
An Bang Beach
Bask in a day of relaxation at An Bang Beach, a paradise of soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Relax under swaying palm trees and take a dip while you enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, such as Soul Kitchen Beach Bar and Restaurant.
The Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
Step back in time
History lovers can explore the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels – a fascinating glimpse into wartime life – and the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. Ben Thanh Market is one of the oldest traditional markets in the city and offers endless shopping and sightseeing.
Vibrant flavours
Promising a blend of tradition and adventure, wander French colonial buildings, take in panoramic views from iconic rooftop bars like Chill Skybar and Bitexco Financial Tower and dabble in a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, including bánh xèo (traditional crispy pancakes), flavorful phở and the iconic bánh mì.
The Best Things to Do in Da Nang
Marble Mountains
Limestone peaks, caves and Buddhist sanctuaries; the Marble Mountains bring breathtaking views and the chance to explore caves, pagodas, and hidden shrines such as Huyền Không Cave, a Buddhist shrine once used as a hideout in the Vietnam War.
Sun World Ba Na Hills
For a magical day, venture to an amusement park famous for its Golden Bridge. A 150-metre-long bridge, known for its unique and spectacular design featuring two giant stone hands holding the walkway, it is perfect for marveling at breathtaking, natural landscapes. In Sun World Ba Na Hills, embrace mountaintop views, a fairytale-style French Village and one of the world’s longest cable cars you can ride through the clouds.
The Best Things to Do in Nha Trang
Explore breathtaking islands
Surrounded by beautiful islands such as Hon Mun and Hon Tam, visitors to Nha Trang can spend days snorkeling, scuba diving and exploring rich marine life and natural wonders. To embrace the region famous for its seafood, dine at a floating restaurant, built on boats or platforms on the water, offering an intimate dining experience with breathtaking views, and the taste of freshly caught seafood.
Take a well-deserved break
Known for natural hot springs, therapeutic mud baths and a variety of wellness resorts, indulge in treatments such as soothing herbal massages or thermal mineral baths. The region’s natural resources make for a relaxing detox at various relaxing havens, such as the Thap Ba Hot Spring Centre.
